Caraga InFocus –Volume VII, No. 03

17 LGU-Cantilan, DepEd receive donated forest products from CENRO-Cantilan

18 LGU Carrascal validates proposed diversified farm

19 Five Bisliganon OFWs receive livelihood assistance from OWWA

20 Tandag police operatives nab high value drug suspect

21 CTG member voluntarily surrenders to San Miguel MPS

22

Buy-bust operation in Bayabas, apprehends drug suspect

23 Army strengthens partnership, sustains peace

P17M EXPANSION BUILDING IN BUTUAN AIRPORT SOON TO OPEN TO PUBLIC

By Doreen Marielle Rosales

The expanded terminal building in Butuan Airport will open soon to the public, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) Caraga on Wednesday (January 11) confirmed.

The P17-million airport infrastructure will widen the airport capacity and house one more airbus, CAAP Caraga Area Manager Evangeline F. Daba said.

“We also have the newly expanded terminal building that can accommodate three airbuses. Currently, we have the old building, which can

accommodate two airbuses already plus the additional one,” the official added.

This makes the total airport capacity to 180 passengers.

According to Daba, the expansion is part of the programs the Department of Transportation (DOTr) has implemented under thenPresident Rodrigo Duterte’s “Build, Build, Build” flagship

program which also focused on modernizing airports and seaports all over the country.

An ocular inspection is slated this month before the turnover and soft opening. Airport management is yet to identify additional airport facilities that can fit into the 40-square-meter terminal building for added convenience to the flying public.

Butuan Airport first marked its modernization efforts with the inauguration of the Malasakit Hall in 2021, a one-stopshop transient spot furnished with a clinic, childcare room, non-sectarian praying room, lounge, and food and souvenir stores.

Currently they are working on building a new control tower in partnership with the Local Government Unit of Butuan.

The modernization also came with heightened security measures, with more security personnel manning the airport, as well as tighter implementation of airport protocols. To the flying passengers, Daba quipped, “CAAP is to serve, to give comfort to the passenger. We are not also compromising the safety, we also have the security kaya I hope they understand the screening process and dapat maaga silang dumating. I hope the public will understand that.” (DMNR/PIA-Caraga)

News Briefs

The employees of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) from the different departments and regional offices are actively participating in Webinar on Wellness and Self Care after the Holidays, via Zoom platform.

Since 2012, the nation celebrates Philippine Tropical Fabrics (PTF) through every month of January by virtue of Proclamation No. 313 Series of 2012. The observance of PTF Month aims to promote textile production using natural textile fibers, technologies, and industries in the Philippines towards the revitalization of the local textile industry, inclusive growth through the generation of livelihood for Filipinos and to provide materials that nurture and promote a truly Filipino textile brand.

The Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) joins the nation in celebrating the Philippine Tropical Fabrics Month, which is annually held every January under Proclamation No. 313 Series of 2012. Led by the Department of Science and Technology—Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI), this year’s theme, “Pushing Boundaries for Sustainable, Competitive, and Inclusive Philippine Textile-Garment Industry,” aims to celebrate milestones, launch regional hubs, and raise awareness of using and developing Philippine textiles, local natural resources, and mainstream developed textile solutions and technologies.

Butuan City celebrates January 17 the 124th formal and official hoisting of the Philippine Flag in Mindanao. Dressed in Barong Tagalog and Filipiniana, the government officials, and employees from the different government offices in the city joined the celebration at the Guingona Park in Butuan City.

Butuan City

Butuan City

inter-agency

inter-agency

nagkadaiyang klase sa pagpangabuso.

Mahinumduman nga gipasalamatan ni Vice Mayor Law Fortun si City Councilor Cherry May Busa sa pagpangusog nga mapasa ang ordinansa aron mas mapalig-on ang pagpatuman niini tungod sa saktong probisyon ug ang pagtinabangay sa mga ahensya sa rehiyon.

Kahibaloan nga si Vice Mayor Lawrence Fortun ug kanhi usab Congressman ang nahimong author sa National Law nga Anti OSAEC Bill.

Aprobado na ni Mayor Ronnie Vicente Lagnada ang Butuan City InterAgency Council Against Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children Ordinance nga gipangamahan ni City Councilor Cherry May Busa.

Kini nga ordinansa base sa Section 2 RA

no.11930 o mas naila sa Anti-Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children OSAEC ug Anti-Child Sexual Abuse o Exploitation Materials CSAEM Act. Kini aron mahatagan sa saktong proteksyon, suporta ug saktong pag atiman ang mga kabataan ug kababayen-an nga nakasinati sa mga

Ang pagmugna sa Butuan City Inter Agency Council Against Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children Ordinance suportado sa tibook pwersa sa sangguniang panlungsod sa pagpanguna ni Vice Mayor Law Fortun.

(Butuan City PIO/PIA Agusan del Norte)

council against online sexual abuse and exploitation of children, aprobado na

council against online sexual abuse and exploitation of children, aprobado na

PDEA, PNP seize nearly half a million pesos worth of shabu in Butuan

PDEA, PNP seize nearly half a million pesos worth of shabu in Butuan

A 39-year-old mechanic was caught red handed in selling shabu to an undercover drug enforcement agent in the evening of January 11, 2023 at Purok 5, Barangay Tandang Sora, Butuan City in a joint anti-drug operation conducted by the combined forces of Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Caraga, Dinagat Islands Provincial Office (DI PO), PDEA Regional Special Enforcement

The operating team was able to confiscate one (1) knot-tied transparent plastic sachet containing shabu weighing more or less 60 grams with an estimated street value of more than P400,000 from the suspect identified as Birch Silong Moras who is also a resident of the abovementioned address.

The buy-bust money

was recovered from the possession of the suspect while the cellular phone used in his illegal drug transactions was also seized by the operating team and was made part of the inventory of evidence.

The suspect is temporarily detained at PDEA Caraga Regional OfficeI custodial facility for proper disposition.

(PDEA-Caraga/PIACaraga)

Team (RSET), and Butuan City Police Station 1.

PGAS, DENR Caraga turn over fabricated armchairs to DepEd

The Provincial Government of Agusan del Sur (PGAS) and the Department of Environmental and Natural Resources (DENR)-Caraga led the Ceremonial Turn over of the 7,667 fabricated armchairs to the Department of Education (DepEd) Divisions of Agusan del Sur and Bayugan City on January 10, 2023, held at the Datu Lipus Makapandong Naliyagan Cultural Center.

The fabrication of armchairs is one of the PGAS projects under the Support to Education Program of the Special Education Fund (SEF) CY 2022.

The chairs will be distributed to the identified priority schools, which are in highly pressing need due to their increased enrolment and situation in the classrooms.

In attendance at the Turn over Ceremony were Gov. Santiago

B. Cane Jr., Vice-Gov. Samuel E. Tortor, Sangguniang Panlalawigan Members and other Provincial Heads and personnel, Schools Division Superintendent (SDS) Minerva T. Albis, SDS Imelda N. Sabornido, DENR Caraga Regional Director For. Nonito M. Tamayo, and the Public Schools District Supervisors.

Dr. Minerva T. Albis, Schools Division

Superintendent of Agusan del Sur, expressed her heartfelt thanks to the entire PGAS and the DENR Caraga for their unwavering and incomparable support to the DepEd, especially in catering to the needs of the Agsurnon learners. (PPIO-AgSur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Army troops seize arms cache with HPFAs in AgSur Army troops seize arms cache with HPFAs in AgSur

The members of the 26th Infantry (Ever Onward) Battalion seized three high-powered firearms (HPFAs) with numerous ammunitions while conducting military operations at the hinterlands of Sitio Kimambukadyang, Barangay Binicalan, Agusan del Sur on January 14, 2023.

The unit’s intensified intelligence and military operations with the help

of Former Rebels (FRs) resulted in the seizure of an arms cache containing two (2) garand rifles with more than 200 rounds of ammunition and one (1) carbine rifle loaded with four (4) ammunition.

In a statement, Lieutenant Colonel Sandy Majarocon, Commanding Officer of 26IB, thanked the FRs who gave valuable information leading to the seizure of these HPFAs.

He also appreciated the ever-increasing support of the communities and local government units to the Philippine Army. “It is a clear proof of the people’s trust in us to protect them, and for that, we will continue to intensify our initiatives and efforts to secure our people, especially in farflung communities,” he said.

“Akong giawhag pagusab ang mga nahabilin pang myembro sa

Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) nga mo-surrender na ug mopahimulos sa nindot nga programa sa atong gobyerno para kaninyo pinaagi sa Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program o ECLIP. Daghan ng mga kauban ninyo ang nkabenipisyo niini. Tagai ug higayon ang inyong kaugalingon nga mangamuyo ug normal

ug malinawon uban ang inyong mga pamilya.

Ang kasundalohan sa 26IB uban ang mga ahensya sa gobyerno andam sa pagsuporta ug pagtabang sa inyong

pagbalik sa sabakan sa

balaod (I call on once again the members of the CPP-NPA to surrender and benefit from the government’s programs through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local

Integration Program or ECLIP. A lot of FRs were granted with different benefits. Give yourself a chance to live a normal life with your family. The 26IB along with other government agencies is all - time ready to help, should you choose to return to the folds of the law)”, he ended. (Kayce M Abuan, CMO Officer, 26IB, PA/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

AgSur guv shares relief goods to flood-affected areas

One thousand, seven hundred sixteen families in four barangays within the municipalities of Talacogon and La Paz particularly Barangay Sabang Gibong, Maharlika and La Flora in Talacogon and Barangay Sabang Adgawan in La Paz, who were affected by floods received relief goods from the provincial government led by Governor Santiago Cane, Jr.

The flood was caused by the continuous rains that hit the province recently, which brought great effects

that they even celebrated Christmas like ordinary days when they were supposed to celebrate the holidays in a joyful manner.

According to Maria Lalisan, she has lived in the area for more than 50 years now and they can predict when the planting season will be. But since the last two years ago until now, they seldom do the planting because of

to the living condition of the barangay residents in the abovementioned barangays.

Maria Lalisan, a resident of Barangay Sabang Gibong said

the unpredictable climate caused by climate change.

Because of the situation, the provincial government distributed relief goods to the residents of the above-mentioned

barangays.

Riding in a jet ski, Gov. Cane hopped from one barangay to the other, while personally distributing the relief goods, and at the same time seeing and assessing the situation to ensure that all the people in the affected area will not experience and suffer hunger. The

governor was assisted by the personnel from the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO).

Anatolia Cagumay and Bertmar Morta, both residents of Barangay Maharlika, Talacogon, expressed the joy and gratitude they feel for the help extended to them by the provincial government and Team Eddiebong saying they feel the sincere concern of the government for people in need and particularly in their area.

(David M. Suyao, PPIO-Agusan del Sur with reports from Arfylle Goloran and Alexis Cabardo/PIAAgusan del Sur)

RDIC conducts consultative workshop for the 2023-2028 Research, Development, and Innovation Agenda for SDN

The Regional Research, Development, and Innovation Committee (RRDIC), a special committee under the Regional Development Council (RDC), successfully conducted a Stakeholders’ Consultation Workshop for the crafting of 2023-2028 Research, Development, and Innovation Agenda for Surigao del Norte on December 21, 2022.

The consultative workshop aimed to identify the research, development, and innovation needs of the province and the key issues of the Department of Science and Technology-Caraga stakeholders pertaining to science, technology and innovation.

The activity was facilitated by the DOSTCaraga Planning Officer,

Mr. Nole Kristoffer L. Laganga, together with the RRDIC Secretariat, Ms. Cristine Gonzaga, with the assistance of the Provincial Science and Technology Office in Surigao del Norte.

To measure and identify the RDI needs of Surigao del Norte, the facilitators introduced the concept of Futures Thinking, Strategic Foresight, Driver Mapping, and Futures Triangle which served as workshop tool kits to formulate hypotheses about the future RDI issues in the province. After the two (2) productive workshop sessions, the group of participants presented their inputs and discussed the identified sector trend areas/ factors that would best describe the pulls of the future, weights of the past, and pushes of the present pertaining to the

research, development, and innovation landscape of Surigao del Norte.

At the end of the workshop, DOST-SDN Provincial Director Ms. Mariel P. Makinano, thanked the participants for their active engagement in shaping the future RDI agenda of the province.

The workshop was attended by representatives of the provincial LGU offices: Provincial Development Planning Office, Provincial Disaster and Risk Reduction Office, Provincial Agriculture Office, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office, Provincial Economic Research and Business Assistance Center, Provincial Tourism Office, and Provincial Health Office.

The activity was conducted in line with the RRDIC’s goal to bridge the gaps and address the issues surrounding regional socioeconomic development by ensuring that research, inventions, innovations, and other S&T-based projects are responsive to and in line with regional development thrusts.

(DOST-SDN/PIASurigao del Norte)

The Port Management Office of Surigao (PMO Surigao) officially recognized and provided monetary incentives to two security screeners for honesty and integrity at work.

In simple a ceremony held recently at the PMO Surigao Administration Building, Security Screeners John Rey Yap and Christopher Montera each received a Certificate of Commendation and cash incentive from PMO Acting Port Manager Froilan Caturla.

PMO Surigao recognizes honest security screeners

It may be recalled that for the second time around, Security Screener John Rey Yap found and returned to the owner of a sling bag containing around P11,590.00 cash and identification cards left behind at the port’s Baggage x-ray machine while on duty at the Port of Surigao’s Passenger Terminal Building security inspection in the afternoon of January 2, 2023.

Barely six months ago, on July 3, 2022, Yap successfully returned to

the owner the amount of P80,000 in cold cash contained inside a bag left behind in the baggage x-ray machine conveyor at the Port of Surigao Passenger Terminal Building.

On the other hand, Security Screener Christopher Montera successfully returned to the owner the cash amounting to P200,000 contained inside a bag left behind in the baggage x-ray machine conveyor in the morning of July 1, 2022 at the same site. (PPA-PMO Surigao/PIASurigao del Norte)

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources-CENRO

Cantilan in Surigao del Sur successfully turned over the donated logs from the mining companies to the Local Government Unit of Cantilan for the various projects of the LGU including the rehabilitation of footbridges on January 16, 2023,

The donation of logs was confirmed with the signing of the Deed of Donation between DENR-CENRO Cantilan, chief Forester Gay P. Resullar and Mayor Philip A. Pichay of LGU-Cantilan.

Said donation was facilitated per request of the LGU to provide lumber needed for the construction of houses of the Typhoon-affected

families in the municipality.

Meanwhile, some 2,000 board feet of donated forest products (logs) were successfully turned over to the Department of Education (DepEd)Surigao del Sur Division headed by its Schools Division Superintendent, Josita B. Carmen.

The donated forest products will be used by the Division Office for its improvement and other office essentials, including minor repairs of its buildings located in Barangay Mabua, Tandag City.

It was learned that other learning institutions within the area of responsibility (AOR) of CENRO Cantilan were also given purposely

for the PROJECT CARE (Ceiling, Roofing and Truss Enhancement) of the schools.

Accordingly, it was highlighted in Executive Order No. 23, series of 2011, under Section 2.7 stated that “the Department of Education shall be given priority in the use of all confiscated logs/ lumber”.

Meanwhile, the DENRCENRO Cantilan iwhich is located at Brgy. Magosilom is open to serve the public.

For any inquiries, you may reach the office at 0981604-9818 or send your email to cenrocantilan@ denr.gov.ph. (Grace Barcena/CENRO-Cantilan/ PIA-Surigao del Sur)

LGU-Cantilan, DepEd receive donated forest products from CENRO-Cantilan

LGU Carrascal validates proposed diversified farm

A team from the Local Government Unit of CarrascalMunicipal Agriculture Office (MAO) conducted a field validation of the Cocoy’s Family Farm owned by Mr. Joel Antigo in Sitio Libuac of Barangay Doyos, Carrascal, Surigao del Sur on January 9, 2023.

Based on the report, the validation intends for the possible recommendation and other interventions to introduce the area for farm development.

The activity conducted is one of the priority initiatives of Carrascal Mayor Vicente H. Pimentel III in the agriculture sector to strengthen its extension services to farmers who are willing to adapt modern conceptualization of farm sites by engaging a diversified farming technology regardless of their farm location.

It was learned that the validation was focused on site agricultural profiling, geo-tagging and terrain classification to identify suitable commodities by emphasizing a location-specific crop introduction to ensure its productivity.

The team accordingly also provided agri-extension support and technical assistance on how to

develop the farm following the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) basic processes and thrust this calendar year 2023.

The LGU will serve as support and guide to the cooperator to prepare necessary documents to be submitted to identified government entities mandated to boost the agriculture sector in the country. (LGUCarrascal, SDS)

Five Bisliganon OFWs receive livelihood assistance from OWWA

Some five (5) Bisliiganons who are Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) as qualified beneficiaries of the Balik Pinas Balik Hanapbuhay Program (BPBH) received livelihood assistance from Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) in partnership with the Local Government Unit of Bislig City on January 9, 2023, held at the City Mayor’s Office of Bislig City.

No less than Local Chief Executive Florencio C. Garay assisted by Public Employment Service Office (PESO) Ms. Laine S. Elechicon, and OWWA personnel

The OWWA BPBH program is livelihood assistance intended for distressed or displaced OFWs to augment economic instability.

The beneficiaries accordingly received cheques ranging from Php 5,000, Php 10,000, and Php 20,000 for their proposed income generating projects/ and businesses such as poultry, sari-sari store, Piso wifi, fishing business and as medical assistance. (CIO-Bislig)

Ms. Lorie Ann Hilongos facilitated the awarding of livelihood assistance to the Bisliganon OFWs.

Tandag police operatives nab high value drug suspect

To crack down the illegal drug activities in the province, Tandag Component City Police Station launched the anti-illegal drug operation in Purok Million, Brgy. San Agustin Sur, Tandag City, Surigao del Sur on January 11, and successfully nabbed a high-value drug suspect.

Surigao del Sur Police Provincial Office (SDSPPO) Director Pol. Col. Dennis Siruno identified the arrested person as Jun Nicol Lumanao Lastimado alias “dong-dong”, male, single, 28 years, Roman Catholic, college level, and a resident of Purok Rising Sun, Brgy. Bag-ong Lungsod, Tandag City.

Lastimado was accordingly apprehended by the operatives in a buy-bust operation.

During the operation, the following items wereb seized and confiscated:

* seven (7) pieces heatsealed transparent plastic sachets containing a white crystalline substance believed to be shabu, an estimated weight of five (5) grams and an estimated street value of Php 34,000.00; * one (1) paper bill worth Php1,000.00 with serial number BX557086 marked money; * one (1) yellow disposable lighter;

* One (1) piece double mint aluminum case; * one (1) disposable lighter with improvised tooter found inside the black perfume box;

* three (3) pieces of rolled aluminum; * one (1) dental floss box containing 17 pieces open transparent plastic sachets containing traces of white crystalline substance believed to be shabu; * 25 pieces empty transparent plastic sachets; * four (4) pieces of disposable lighters found inside the black Poco X3 cellphone case; * one (1) piece blade; l one (1) stainless blackhead remover; * one (1)

piece bamboo stick; and * One (1) unit black Honda beat motorcycle.

In a statement, Col. Siruno emphasized that the police force is serious about doing their duties primarily on running after the violators of the law. “The apprehension of the drug suspect clearly shows that we are serious in the implementation of the laws against these lawless elements”, the official said.

Let this be a warning to everyone who is involved in illegal drug activities, that the long arm of the law will not stop our law enforcement operation and put you behind bars,” Pol. Col. Siruno added.

Meanwhile, the case for violation of RA 9165 or The Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 is being prepared for filing in court against the suspect. (SDSPPO)

CTG member voluntarily surrenders to San Miguel MPS

With the intensified campaign against insurgency and terrorism, a member of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) voluntarily surrendered to the Municipal Police Station (MPS) of San Miguel, Surigao del Sur on January 14, 2022.

Surigao del Sur Police Provincial Office (SDSPPO) Provincial chief Director Police Colonel Dennis Siruno identified the surrenderee as a.k.a. Jerome, 30 years old, male, married, and a resident of Sitio Tubacon, Barangay

Bitaugan, San Miguel, Surigao del Sur.

Based on the report, also known as Jerome was a former squad leader of Guerilla Front 30 Platoon 1.

Jerome surrendered along with him were a one Smith and Wesson 9mm revolver without ammunition and one set of riffle grenade (GOE) with Bultrap.

Police Colonel Siruno lauded the efforts of the operatives in doing

their duties and responsibilities on the ground.

“With this significant accomplishment, I commend the efforts of the operatives who played a vital role in encouraging the CTG member to return to the fold

of the law”, Police Colonel Siruno said.

The official added, “Once again, I am appealing to the remaining rebels to lay down their arms and surrender to authorities.” (NGPB/SDS-PPO/PIASurigao del Sur)

Buy-bust operation in Bayabas, apprehends drug suspect

A drug suspect was arrested in a buy-bust operation conducted by Surigao del Sur Police Provincial Office (SDSPPO) operatives in Purok 5, Barangay La Paz, Bayabas, Surigao del Sur on January 15.

Based on the report, an estimated Php10, 200.00 worth of suspected shabu was also seized during the operation.

In a press statement, SDSPPO Provincial Director Police Col. Dennis Siruno identified the drug suspect as Cleford Murillo Espinoza, 30 years old, married, male,

unemployed, and a resident of Purok Santol, Barangay Bacolod, Cagwait, of this province.

Espinoza accordingly was arrested by a joint team composed of SDS-PPO Provincial Drug Enforcement

four (4) pieces heat-sealed plastic sachets, containing white crystalline substance known to be Shabu with an estimated weight of 1.5 grams and an estimated street value of Php 10,200.00; and buybust money amounting to Php 1,000.00.

PCol. Siruno revealed that the PNP in Surigao del Sur is seriously doing its best to eliminate illegal drug activities within the province.

Unit (Lead Team), Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), SDS 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company, and Bayabas Municipal Police Station (MPS).

Meanwhile, the team reportedly confiscated the following items from the possession of the suspect:

“The SDS Police force remains steadfast to the anti-illegal drug operations and the programs of the government that aim for a safe and peaceful place to live,” the official said.

“I am also urging our concerned citizens to help us in our endeavors to keep our community safe and make our children’s future free from the threats and dangers of illegal drugs,” PCOL SIRUNO noted. (SDS-PPO)

Army strengthens partnership, sustains peace

The 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion (23IB) intensifies the creation of federated people’s organization (PO) among the former members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPPNPA-NDF), and their underground mass organization (UGMO) supporters, to help them rebuild their lives as they reintegrate to their communities.

The recent activity was to uplift the welfare of the recipients and intend to develop people’s capability to organize themselves and their progress by bringing about value-chain interventions to elevate their current situation.

Technical Education and Skills Development Authority Agusan del Norte (TESDA-ADN) Provincial Director Rey

M. Cueva spearheaded the livelihood planning in collaboration with the

Provincial Government of Agusan del Norte, the two Congressional District Offices, Local Government Units of Carmen, Nasipit, Buenavista, Las Nieves, Butuan City, Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and the 23IB.

Cueva said the organization of POs would not also be possible without the assistance of various government agencies as well as the private sector working for the community reformation.

Also, Major Samuel P Maglinao (INF) PA, Executive Officer of 23IB, expressed his encouragement to the beneficiaries to take care and give value to the project. He hoped that more individuals will also receive this kind of livelihood as we focus on keeping peace and order. The activity is part of the whole of nation approach which intends to attain sustainable peace with the active support of the community and partner stakeholders in bringing the government closer to the people and eliminating the influence of the NPA in the community, he said.

Government agencies and private sector joined forces to provide sustainability on these POs through provision of their livelihood and security. (2Lt. Paoula P. Ledesma CMO Officer 23rd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army/PIA Agusan del Norte)

Gov’t troops condemn NPA’s violation of IHL

The 29th Infantry “Matatag” Battalion (29IB) condemned the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) for its violation of the International Humanitarian Law (IHL) by detonating a landmine during an encounter at Sitio Pinamugaan, Brgy. Bangonay, Jabonga, Agusan del Norte on January 10, 2023.

The detonation resulted in the wounding of 29IB personnel, who incurred minor injuries from the shrapnels.

The clash transpired after troops responded to an information from concerned civilians regarding the extortion and foraging activities of 10 New Peoples Army (NPAs), reportedly members of the Sentro De Grabidad 16, Guerilla Front 16, Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee (SDG16, GF16, NEMRC), targeting the small-scale miners in the hinter areas of Barangay Bangonay, Santiago in Agusan del Norte. The government forces also recovered various ammunition and subversive documents left behind by the fleeing communist terrorist after the 5-minute firefight.

The wounded soldier is now in stable condition after he was given first aid and immediately evacuated to the nearest hospital.

Pursuit operations are also ongoing against the fleeing perpetrators. In his statement, 29IB Commanding

Officer Lt. Col. Cresencio C. Gargar denounced the atrocity committed by the CTG that violated the IHL and Republic Act 9851 or the “Philippine Act on Crimes Against International Humanitarian Law, Genocide, and Other Crimes Against Humanity.”

He also assured that their focused military operations will not stop despite the communist terrorists’ illegal attacks.

“It is our mandate to protect the people and secure our nation against the threat posed by these communist terrorists. We will optimize our military operations in that area to neutralize the remaining NPAs who bring fear and terror in the communities,’ Lt. Col. Gargar emphasized. (1Lt. Jade Bryce G. Buñe, CMO Officer 29th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army/ PIA Agusan del Norte)

Gipangunahan ni Butuan City Councilor Eduardo Gonzalez ang pagdungog sa Committee on Health and Sanitation aron mahisgutan ang pagmugna og Functional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management in Health System o DRRM-H sa Butuan City.

Nahibaluan nga ang DRRM-H usa ka integrated system based, multi-sectoral nga proseso nga nag han-ay sa mga palisiya, programa, stratehiya para

nga suporta ug paghatag sa nag-unang panginahanglanon subay sa Health Cluster Population Based Services, apil na niini ang Medical ug Public Health.

Makasiguro usab nga makahatag sa maayong nutrisyon sa panahon sa emerhensiya, tubig, Sanitation ug Hygiene Services, ug apil ang Mental and Psychosocial nga suporta.

Sa kasamtangan padayon nga gi tunan ang mga probisyon sa balaodnon

mamenusan ang risgo sa panglawas

gumikan sa mga katalagman ug

emerhensiya. Usa sab kini ka mekanismo alang sa pagpauswag sa kapasidad ug

pagpangandam sa komunidad aron makunhuran ang mamahimong epekto sa unsa mang peligro.

Panahon nga mapatuman ang nasangpit nga programa lauman nga dunay paspas

sa Komitiba sa Health and Sanitation

kauban ang mga partner stakeholders alang sa mas haum ug epektibong implementasyon niini.

Ang nasangpit nga programa suportado sa tibook pwersa sa 16th SP members ug gitahasan usab ang City Health Office nga mamahimong principal implementer sa DRRM-H System. (Butuan City PIO/PIA Agusan del Norte)

Serbisyo sa Agusan del Norte alang sa 2023, mas palambuon pa

Serbisyo sa Agusan del Norte alang sa 2023, mas palambuon pa

Mas palambuon pa ang ipadangat nga mga serbisyo sa katawhan sa probinsya sa Agusan del Norte ubos sa kadumalahan ni Provincial Governor

Ma. Angelica

Rosedell M. Amante dala ang hugot

nga panaghiusa sa mga aktibidades ug

programa sa matag

buhatan sa kapitolyo kaabag ang buhatan ni Kong. Dale B. Corvera.

Kini ang gipaabot sa gobernador ngadto sa tanang Hepe sa Kapitolyo sa usa ka Executive Meeting

(ExeCom)

niadtong Enero 9 sa Provincial Training Center. Sa maong katiguman, gipasabot ni Amante nga mas

doblehon pa ang pagpaningkamot sa matag usa aron makahatag ug kalidad nga serbisyo sa mga Agusanons.

Buot sa Gobernador nga

tutukan karon nga tuig sa iyang administrasyon ang social ug health services.

Mao ang pagpalambo

sa serbisyo ug sistema sa tanang tambalanan sa probinsya.

Pasabot ni Amante nga kung mahimo, dili mabugatan ang mga Agusanons sa mga balayronon sa ospital ilabina sa doctors’ fees.

Ikaduha mao ang panaghiusa

sa probinsya ug tanang local government units sa tanang buluhaton lakip na ang resources o budget aron ma improbar ang serbisyo mahitungod sa emergency management ilabina na sa disaster prevention.

Ikatulo mao ang agrikultura. Gipunting ni Amante nga kinahanglan mo-angat ang panginabuhian ug makabarog ang mga mag-uuma sa probinsya. Tinguha usab sa Gobernador karon nga tuig nga mahimong progresibo ang lakang nga pagabuhaton sa iyang kadumalahan

aron makab-ot ang kinatibuk-ang panglantaw nga mahimong “AgroProcessing Center ang Agusan del Norte sa tibuok Caraga Region pag-abot sa tuig 2027” partikular sa food sufficiency.

Apil usab nga gitutokan karon sa gobernador ang pagpalig-on ug pagpabag-o sa pagpatuman sa striktong sistema o pagpadagan sa Human Resource sa kapitolyo. Tinguha ni Amante nga ang tanang empleyado sa Kapitolyo mamahimong produktibo ug dili mahimong compliance

lamang sa pag-atiman sa panginahanglanon sa mga Agusanons may kalambigitan sa Public Service.

Sa mensahe ni Amante, gipaambit niya nga kinahangalan mamahimong

“extraordinary” ang pagpanarbo sa empleyado sa Kapitolyo.

Hangyo niya nga dili mahimong “silent quitting” o mahimong non-compliance nga pagpanarbaho. (Karen Decamotan, LGU Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)

CPC iginawad ng LTFRB Caraga sa isang kooperatiba sa Butuan

Sa ilalim ng Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program ng gobyerno, isang Certificate of Public Convenience ang iginawad ng Land Transportation

Franchising and Regulatory Board o LTFRB Caraga sa Diamond Transport Service Cooperative o DATSCO, isang kooperatiba sa Butuan City para sa bago at modernong sasakyan na mapapakinabangan ng mga Caraganon.

Masaya at lubos ang pasasalamat ni Nestor dela Peña, ang chairperson ng DATSCO dahil sa panibagong hamon na gagampanan ng kooperatiba pagkatapos ng pandemya, kung saan labis na naapektuhan ang kanilang operasyon.

Sa ceremonial signing at awarding ng Certificate of Public Convenience, pinaalalahanan ni LTFRB regional director

Jhorgene Paronia

ang mga operator at myembro ng kooperatiba na gawing maayos at kalidad ang kanilang serbisyo upang mapanatili ang kanilang estado sa publiko at maranasan ng mga caraganon ang modernong pampublikong sasakyan.

Ayon kay LTFRB Caraga regional director Paronia, hindi madali ang pagkuha ng Certificate of Public Convenience, dahil may kaakibat itong malaking responsibilad sa mga operators, at pwede rin itong bawiin kung hindi nasusunod ang mga alituntunin at mapanatiling maayos ang operasyon.

Ang DATSCO ay may bagong labing limang (15) public utility jeepney na bibyahe mula sa syudad ng Butuan hanggang Nasipit, Agusan del Norte, at dalawampu’t limang taxi (25) units naman na bibyahe sa iba’t ibang lugar ng rehiyon. (NCLM/ PIA Agusan del Norte)

Ni Nora C. Lanuza

Tubay miestablisar og college scholarship program

Ubos sa Municipal Ordinance

No. 2022-134 sa pagpanginahan ni Tubay, Agusan del NorteSanggunian Bayan

(SB) Member Rosalina O. Guzo nga mag-establisar sa College Scholarship Program, makatagamtam na og libreng college education ang mga kwalipikadong studyante sa lungsod sa Tubay.

Sigon sa maong ordinansa, ang programa alang niadtong kabos apan takos nga mga studyante sa lungsod nga mokuha og bisan unsang upat (4) ka tuig nga kurso sa bachelor’s degree o associate degree o diploma course nga 1 o 2 ka tuig nga mga kurso nga teknikal, bokisyonal o management-related courses. Dili lakip, matod pa, ang medicalrelated courses sama sa medisina,

dentistry, optometry, nursing, ug uban pa.

Aron mahimong kwalipikado sa maong programa, gikinahanglan nga ang studyante residente sa lungsod sa Tubay sulod sa tulo (3) ka tuig ug registered voter sa munisipyo.

Kinahanglan usab nga ang kita sa

pamilya dili molapas sa Singko mil (P/5K) pesos kung 1 lamang ang dependent niini, dili molapas sa Otos mil (P/8K) pesos alang sa 2 ka dependent, ug dili molapas sa dyes mil (P/10,000.00) pesos kun kini adunay 3 o daghan pang dependent.

Panlalawigan ang nasangpit nga

ordinansa pinaagi sa Sanggunian Resolution No. 009-2023 sa rekomindasyon sa SP Committee on Education and Culture nga

gipangunahan ni Bokal Rodulfo A. Pitogo. (Jay Vincent Demain, PLGU Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)

Giaprobahan sa Sangguniang

Cash

incentives para sa barangay population volunteers sa Cabadbaran aprobado sa SP

Gideklarang balido sa Sangguniang

Panlalawigan ang City

Ordinance No. 2022-017

gikan sa Cabadbaran City nga nag-institutionalize sa Barangay Population Volunteers (BPVs)

ug paghatag og cash incentives matag usa ka BPV sa 31 ka mga barangay sa maong syudad pina-agi sa Sanggunian Resolution No. 013-2023.

Naka-angkla ang maong ordinansa sa Memorandum Circular 2019-011 gikan sa Department of the Interior and Local Government nga

nagmando sa probinsya,

syudad ug munisipalidad sa paghatag serbisyo ug benipisyo sa mga barangay ug community volunteers aron mas mamahimong produktibo ang ilang pagpanerbisyo.

Nakalatid sa maong ordinansa nga kwalipikadong makadawat og P1,000 monthly cash incentives ang usa ka BPV kun mukabat na sa unom

(6) ka bulan ang iyang pagpanerbisyo isip volunteer.

Gimbuhaton sa matag BPV ang pag-assist sa City Population Officer (CPO) sa pagpatuman sa tumong nga “Matatag,

Maginhawa at Planadong

Pamilyang Pilipino” lakip na usab ang pagtabang sa pagpahigayon og community-based demand generation ngadto sa magtiayon sa ilang barangay ug pagmonitor sa kahimtang sa wala matubag nga mga panginahanglan alang sa family planning.

Gipalabang kini atol sa ika-23rd sesyon regular niadtong Enero 10, 2022 sa pagduso ni Bokal

Benjamin D. Lim, Jr. ang tsirman sa Committee on Barangay Affairs. (Robie Jane Sanoria, PLGU Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)

MINDANAO NEWS

The Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) in Mindanao reported Monday that it has completed 178 subprojects under its infrastructure development projects with a total cost of PHP9.34 billion in 2022.

In a statement, PRDPMindanao said 85 more subprojects totaling PHP3.85 billion are currently in different stages of preparation for immediate implementation under the Second Additional Financing and European

Union Co-financing Grant (AF2-EU).

The PRDP-Mindanao is a six-year national project under the Department of Agriculture (DA) that aims to establish a modern, value chainoriented and climate-

PRDP Mindanao completes P9.3-B infra projects in 2022

resilient agriculture and fisheries sector.

“PRDP Mindanao participated in two successive trade expos in the latter half of 2022 with the Philippine Coffee Expo in September and the Cacao Congress in November. These expos allowed PRDP Mindanao to meet with other stakeholders and industry leaders for coffee and cacao and link up their partner

cooperatives to industry buyers to open up trade agreements in the future,” it said.

The PRDP-Mindanao noted that the Philippine Coffee Expo has strengthened private sector partnerships with Nestle, Equilibrium, and the regional and provincial coffee councils such as in Sultan Kudarat province.

Meanwhile, PRDP-

Mindanao said it managed to craft 36 approved value chain analysis (VCAs), which in turn resulted in 33 commodity investment plans used by local government units for the leveraging of their resources.

These VCAs, it said, have resulted in PHP72 billion worth of investments generated throughout Mindanao in both PRDP and non-

PRDP-funded projects.

Additionally, PHP36.6 million worth of investments were made in support of implementing the Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Plan (AFMP) of the Department of Agriculture (DA). On enterprise development, PRDPMindanao completed 99

subprojects with a total cost of PHP457.7 million.

For 2023, PRDPMindanao said 49 additional subprojects are currently in different stages of implementation which when completed will be equivalent to PHP524.9 million in enterprise support throughout the island.

“With the AF2-EU grant,

farmers and fisherfolk in Mindanao can look forward to more interventions to help increase their incomes and productivity,” it said.

Currently, PRDPMindanao has 46 approved subprojects worth PPP2.5 billion and another nine subprojects worth PHP155.6 million – all in different stages of preparation and implementation. (PNA/ Che Palicte)

A total of 350 swimmers from 20 clubs in Mindanao will see action in the Mindanao Swim Series 1-Davao del Sur Cup scheduled on Jan. 14 and 15 at the Davao del Sur Sports Complex pool in Barangay Matti, Digos City.

The event organized by the Swim League

Mindanao Swim Series 1-Davao del Sur Cup set Jan. 14-15

Philippines (SLP) aims to strengthen the sport at the grassroots level and to provide training for coaches and technical officials.

SLP President Fred Ancheta said the tournament is prequalifying to select the members of the team going to the Middle East

Open in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (July), Bangkok Invitational Schools (March) and World University Games in Chengdu, China (July 28-Aug. 8).

“We’re happy and proud of our Mindanaoan brothers who are always supporting our grassroots program. We

join the call for unity to promote reforms in swimming and through tournaments like this, we can prove that we value our young talents from Mindanao,” said Ancheta on Thursday.

“We will come to our brothers in the province to give them the opportunity

and they don’t have to spend on transportation fare going to Manila,” he added.

From Davao del Sur, the tournament will go to Zamboanga City for the Mindanao Series 2 on June 17-18. Series 1 of the Visayas leg will be held on March 18-19

in Tagbilaran City, Bohol province while Series 2 is scheduled on April 29-30 in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental.

“We are not only concentrating in Manila. We will comb the whole country to find hidden talents we can train to become future national athletes,” Ancheta said.

He emphasized that SLP tournaments are open and its program is focused on expanding the knowledge in swimming.

“Everyone can join. Whatever swimming club or organization and affiliations, nobody will be left behind. Our purpose is sports development so we must

be united and focus our attention to one direction,” said Ancheta.

Those who are interested to join the other SLP tournaments may contact Rolly Dela Cruz

(0905-8479233, 09195772982, rollyflame@ yahoo.com) and SLP

(0917-7140077). (PNA/ Jean Malanum)

Swim League Philippines President Fred Ancheta (Contributed photo)

Seven of PH’s business tycoons in Davos in support of PBBM

Seven of PH’s business tycoons in Davos in support of PBBM

Seven of the country’s biggest businessmen are in Davos to support President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s inaugural participation to the 2023 Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF).

Joining the President and his official delegation in Davos are Sabin Aboitiz (Aboitiz); Kevin Andrew Tan (Alliance Global); and Jaime Zobel de Ayala (Ayala Group).

Also in Davos are Lance Gokongwei (JG Summit Holdings); Ramon Ang (San Miguel Corp.); Teresita SyCoson (SM Investments); and Enrique Razon (International Container Terminal).

President Marcos and his official delegation, composed of government officials and business

leaders, arrived in Switzerland on Sunday afternoon (Sunday evening Philippine time).

The World Economic Forum is hosting a Country Strategy Dialogue for the Philippines where the country is given the opportunity to promote the Philippines as leader and driver of growth and a gateway to the Asia-Pacific region, President Marcos said.

“One that is open for business – ever ready to complement regional and global expansion plans of both foreign and Philippinebased enterprises anchored on the competent and well-educated Filipino workers, the managers and professionals,” the President pointed out.

In an interview with

the media en route to Switzerland, the President said he is looking forward to “expanding and expounding” the significant strides achieved by his administration in the question-and-answer event at the WEF.

Aside from the questionand-answer with the audience, the President is also looking forward to the “pull-aside” or “pull-away” meetings on the sidelines of the WEF annual meeting.

President Marcos was invited by Prof. Klaus Schwab, the founder and Chair Emeritus of the WEF, at the sidelines of both the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Phnom Pen, and Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meeting in Bangkok in November last year.

PBBM sees Mideast OFW presence a plus factor in attracting Arab investors PBBM sees Mideast OFW presence a plus factor in attracting Arab investors

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. expressed optimism Tuesday that the Philippines could leverage on the strong presence of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the Middle East to corner investments from Arab countries looking eastward for new investment destination.

During the question and answer session of the open forum at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Switzerland, President Marcos was asked

how he sees possible engagement with Gulf countries, which now consider Southeast Asia as a new location for investments.

In his response, the President said any major capital intensive investment is welcome in the Philippines right now as the country tries to grow its way out of the debt it has incurred.

According to the President, Southeast Asia needs to regain

its position prior to the coronavirus pandemic, noting the region was a fast growing economy while retaining the basic elements that brought it to that point before the pandemic.

“The workforce is still workforce, still exists. It is up to us as leaders, I think, to be very careful how we direct now the development of the economy because it’s not business as usual. The pandemic changed everything,” Marcos told

investors

investors

the forum.

“So specific to the Middle Eastern countries, we have very strong relations actually with the Middle Eastern countries,” the President pointed out.

The Philippines, Marcos said, has a very good foundation with regard to the relationship with Gulf countries because of the huge concentration of OFWs in the Middle East. “Because in the talks that we’ve had with

some of the leaders from the Middle East, the discussion always begins with the overseas Filipino workers,” Marcos said.

Trade also always comes into play especially with the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) members’ very expansive and aggressive spending plan for the next few years, the President said. Trade becomes part of the discussion with Arab nations as the Philippines speaks about its planned

sovereign wealth fund, President Marcos noted.

“Some of the examples that we’re looking at are the ones in the Middle East because they have been the ones that have been most successful,” Marcos said.

“The connections are there — we just not have — put it in that area. But I’m sure that any opportunities that we will be given… have to take full advantage of,” the President said. #

PBBM: Building cybersecurity infra underway to boost gov’t digitalization program

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday said his administration has stepped up efforts to establish a cybersecurity system, a crucial part of his administration’s push to digitalize the bureaucracy.

The President made this remark in an open forum at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Switzerland, where he touted the government’s digitalization initiative and improvements in bureaucratic efficiency.

“The security has become a huge issue… that’s what we are trying to design now, a cybersecurity system for this sensitive information,” the President said.

Noting the country’s slow internet connectivity, the President said the government needs to do better in terms of connecting millions of Filipinos and revving up initiatives to advance the digital economy.

“The connectivity in the Philippines is still pretty low. And it’s unfortunate because some of the studies we’ve made, the general consumer, if you want to call them that, talks to every facet of their lives through the internet, except for government,” the President pointed

out.

Because of this, local governments have stepped in to ensure internet connectivity infrastructures are in place to reach Filipinos in the regions, said the President.

“So, local governments, and some agencies within the national government, would really take on the initiative and started their own systems so as to be able to communicate… So this has now got to be consolidated and put together,” Marcos pointed out.

“And that’s where we are right now: forming the databases for government, forming the databases that can be used by the national ID, [and] establishing it now,” said the chief executive, adding that the Philippines welcomes any assistance in helping the government boost its digitalization initiatives.

President Marcos has ordered to speed up the digitalization of the National Identification (ID) system that could be used for public and private transactions.

Under the Marcos administration, the government has activated thousands of previously offline areas under the Broadband ng Masa (BBM) and Free Wi-Fi for All programs of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT).

PBBM showcases strength country dialogue

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. showcased Tuesday the state of the Philippine economy and the opportunities awaiting to be unlocked,

telling investors about the initiatives being undertaken to ensure the country’s continued recovery and making it more conducive for business.

In his opening remarks during the Country Strategy Dialogue at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, President Marcos cited

an International Monetary Fund (IMF) projection for the 2023 global economic growth, which will only be at 2.7 percent, slower than the 3.2 percent posted last year.

This figure is a significant decrease from the 6.0 percent recorded in 2021.

“But for the Philippines, we project our economy to grow by around 7.0 percent in 2023. Our strong macroeconomic fundamentals, fiscal discipline, structural reforms and liberalization of key sectors instituted over the years have enabled us to withstand the negative shocks

caused by the pandemic and succeeding economic downturns and map a route toward a strong recovery,” the President said in his remarks.

“We have seen inflation accelerating globally in recent months… We are mindful that while protectionist policies

strength of PH economy at WEF

may be appealing, even necessary in the short term, there will ultimately be no long-term winners… We join the call for all governments to unwind any trade restrictions and reinforce our commitment to the World Trade Organization (WTO) reform,” President Marcos pointed out.

Countries, the President said, also need to ensure that sufficient welfare measures are in place to cushion the impact of elevated inflationary pressures, especially towards the most affected and vulnerable sectors.

In addressing the current geopolitical risks, the President reiterated the country’s support for the timely and effective delivery of practical, workable outcomes and encourage economies to leave no stone unturned in finding common ground in these critical global issues.

The Philippines continues to focus on sustaining recovery, promoting a local environment that will nurture businesses by helping them maximize their competitiveness and facilitate their entry into the global market. Also, Marcos stressed the

importance of economic and technical cooperation to assist the development of smaller economies and enable their participation, especially of small businesses and economic segments with untapped potential in the global economy.

To address the current energy and food crises, the country’s development plan puts together coherent strategic measures to hasten economic and social recovery toward inclusive and resilient development, underscoring the need for heightened collaboration to realize economic and social transformation.

“The government also recognizes the importance of digitalization as a key driver for long-term economic growth and as a tool for economic transformation,” the President said, promising to empower and enable micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to participate in the digital economy.

“We have begun largescale deployment of digital connectivity across the Philippines to ensure universal connectivity, particularly

in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas,” Marcos pointed out.

Emphasizing the need to address the current social vulnerabilities, he underscored the importance of education, skills development and lifelong learning to enhance the employability of workers.

Government interventions and public-private partnerships (PPPs) must be strengthened to improve access to employment opportunities, President Marcos said, adding that health systems and social protection must also be enhanced to abate and mitigate present and future risks.

Also present during the country dialogue were House Speaker Martin Romualdez, Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno, Trade Secretary Alfredo E. Pascual, and Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan.

Joo-Ok Lee, the head of the Regional Agenda –Asia-Pacific, and member of the Executive Committee at the World Economic Forum, acted as moderator.

Marcos gov’t to announce strong 2022 GDP growth

Binigyang-diin ni Pangulong Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. sa isang luncheon na walang pinapanigan ang mga miyembro ng Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) at Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) sa kasalukuyang mga tensyong geopolitikal. Sa kanyang talumpati, ipinaabot din ni PBBM ang pasasalamat sa pribadong sektor na isang mahalagang bahagi sa pagpapalakas ng ekonomiya at pagbangon ng bansa mula sa pandemya.

The Philippine government expects a strong full-year gross domestic product (GDP) growth for 2022, most likely much faster than its growth target of 6.5 to 7.5 percent, Department of Finance (DOF) Secretary Benjamin Diokno said on Monday.

In a speech during a luncheon hosted for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Philippine chief executive officers (CEOs) in Davos, Switzerland, Diokno said because of the expected slowdown of the global

economy, the Philippine economy is forecasted to grow by around 6.5 percent this year. And that’s still one of the highest if not the highest growth projection in the Asia-Pacific Region,” Diokno said.

The Philippines’ bustling manufacturing sector, record-low unemployment, and stable and resilient banking system can alleviate buffers against external headwinds, all indicating a resilient economy, the finance chief said.

Further, opening economic sectors to foreign equity, improving the ease of doing business and allowing for modern transformative industries to take root and grow will further sustain the economy.

At the same time, Diokno said the Marcos government has created a more competitive and enabling environment through public-private partnership (PPP) to further expand the Build, Better, More infrastructure agenda of the administration.

This will further boost investments on top of the government’s goal to spend at least 5-6 percent of GDP on infrastructure, Diokno noted, stressing all these form the backbone for the rapid and sustained growth for the Philippines.

But because of the current challenges, Diokno said the Philippines is taking the first steps toward launching the Maharlika Investment Fund, the country’s first ever sovereign wealth

fund that will support the goals set by the administration in the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028.

“The fund, which will be established in keeping with the highest standards of accountability and sound fiscal management, aims to diversify the country’s financial portfolio,” the DOF chief said, adding, he looks forward to discussing the fund during the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos.

“May the next few days bring forth more intensive collaboration

and cooperation towards genuine economic transformation,” the DOF secretary ssid.

The President was joined by House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, former President and current Deputy Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Sen. Mark Villar, Rep. Ferdinand Marcos III, Rep. Yedda Marie Romualdez, Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual, Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, Special Assistant to the President Antonio Lagdameo Jr. and Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista.

3.7K healthcare facilities offer Covid-19 vaccination

Vaccination against the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) is offered at more than 3,000 healthcare facilities nationwide.

In a media briefing Tuesday, Department of Health officer-incharge Maria Rosario Vergeire said that local government units have decided to integrate Covid-19 vaccination in their primary healthcare services when the national government started ramping up of booster shots administration.

“Currently, we have 3,697 primary care facilities which are offering already Covid-19 vaccines and are part of our regular schedules,” she said.

Vergeire cited the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao as the “best example” for such integration which started

in one of its health centers in third quarter last year.

“I think around third quarter of 2022, when the Quezon City government declared that they are integrating and making Covid-19 vaccination closer to the communities, that’s why Mayor Joy [Belmonte], they decided Covid-19 vaccination should be available in their health centers,” she said.

The DOH has protected more than 73.8 million Filipinos against Covid-19 so far, including 6.9 million senior citizens, 10 million adolescents, and 5.4 million children.

Moreover, almost 21.2 million individuals have received their first booster doses and more than 3.8 million have received their second booster shots. (PNA/ Ma. Teresa Montemayor)

(PNA photo by Gil Calinga)

The country’s daily average of new coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) cases went down by 6 percent from Jan. 9 to 15, the Department of Health (DOH) said Monday.

In its latest case bulletin, the DOH noted the daily infections decreased to 419 in the recent week from 447 infections from Jan. 2 to 8.

The DOH also reported 2,934 new cases and 116 verified deaths.

6% as of Jan. 15

Of the additional deaths, about 14 occurred from Jan. 2 to 15, 2023.

To date, the country has logged over 4.07 million coronavirus cases and more than 65,590 fatalities.

During the same week, one case was added to the tally of severe and critical infections, which also went up to 567 from the previous week’s 507. Only 17.2 percent or 402 out of the 2,340 intensive care unit (ICU) beds are in use, while 20 percent or

3,917 of 19,607 non-ICU beds are utilized.

About 73,803,831 or 94.5 percent of the country’s target population (78,100,578) are vaccinated against Covid-19, including 79.46 percent of 8,721,357 senior citizens, as of Jan. 15.

A total of 21,241,707 individuals have received booster shots out of the fully vaccinated population. (PNA/Ma. Teresa Montemayor)

PH daily average of new Covid cases down by 6% as of Jan. 15

PH daily average of new Covid cases down by

NCR Covid-19 positivity

NCR Covid-19 positivity rate dips

The positivity rate or the number of people testing positive for the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) in the National Capital Region (NCR) further dropped to 3.7 percent as of Jan. 14.

The region’s positivity rate a week ago, on Jan. 7, was 5.8 percent.

“Low positivity rates also observed in ten other provinces in Luzon,” OCTA Research Group fellow Dr. Guido David said over Twitter on

Monday.

These provinces include Batangas, from 4.9 percent to 3.2 percent; Benguet from 5.3 percent to 3.6 percent; Bulacan from 3.5 percent to 2.3 percent; Cagayan from 7 percent to 3.9 percent; Cavite from 5.5 percent to 3.2 percent; Ilocos Norte from 4.3 percent to 3.9 percent; Laguna from 7.3 percent to 4.4 percent; Pampanga, 5.5 percent to 2.6 percent; Pangasinan from 4.3 percent to 3.9 percent

and Zambales from 8.4 percent to 4.1 percent.

Isabela’s positivity rate increased from 35.1 percent to 50.2 percent which is considered “very high”.

As of Jan. 15, the top five areas with the most number of cases include NCR with 96 cases and the provinces of Rizal with 16; Bohol with 10; Cavite with 10; Davao del Sur with 10; and Tarlac with 9. (PNA/Ma.Teresa Montemayor)

Passengers inside the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PNA photo by Jess Escaros Jr.)

to 3.7%

rate dips to 3.7%

Regional Office

Jose Rosales Avenue, Butuan City

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Philippine Information Agency Caraga @PIACaraga

Information Centers

AGUSAN DEL NORTE

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