Volume V, No. 2 January 2-8, 2021
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REGIONAL NEWS
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KALAHI-CIDSS CARAGA HITS 100% OF NCDDP COMMUNITY PROJECTS FOR 2020 PSA CARAGA ENJOINS SUPPORT FOR JANUARY 2021 LFS, CHED RIDER QUESTIONS
PROVINCIAL NEWS DEBACLES PLAGUE NPA TERRORISTS 15 CONTINUOUS IN CARAGA 17 AGSUR YOUTH LEADERS SAY NO TO CPP-NPA-NDF FORMER REBELS RECEIVE E-CLIP BENEFITS IN 18 56AGSUR DISTRIBUTES GIFT PACKAGES TO FAR-FLUNG 20 ARMY VILLAGERS IN AGSUR TOWN GIVES GIFTS TO CONFLICT-AFFECTED AREAS 21 ARMY IN AGUSAN NORTE SA BAGONG TULAY SA AGUSAN 23 KONSTRUKSYON DEL NORTE SINIMULAN NA GIDEKLARANG BULAN SA PAMILYA SA LGU 24 MAYO CARMEN
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ARMY DISCOVERS CNT’S ARMS CACHE IN SURIGAO DEL NORTE MORE SURIGAONON FARMERS TO BENEFIT FROM ANOTHER FMR SURIGAO PORT FRONTLINERS GET DISINFECTANT ALCOHOL FROM PH DISTILLERY
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MINDANAO NEWS PIÑOL SEEKS AMENDMENT TO RICE TARIFFICATION LAW MINDANAO BAMBOO SUMMIT SLATED JAN. 19
NATIONAL NEWS PHASE 1 OF BUKIDNON AIRPORT NEARS COMPLETION PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP WILL HELP GOV’T ACHIEVE ZERO HUNGER GOAL - NOGRALES GORDON CONDEMNS BRUTAL KILLING OF BARANGAY TANOD IN FLORIDABLANCA, PAMPANGA FACILITATE VALIDATION OF COVID TESTING CONDUCTED, ASSIGN REP TO PRC - GORDON TO PHILHEALTH GORDON EYES REDUCED COVID TESTING COST WITH SALIVA TEST ZUBIRI FILES BILL SUSPENDING INCREASE IN PHILHEALTH PREMIUM CONTRIBUTIONS PH IMPOSES TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS TO SIX ADDITIONAL COUNTRIES WITH NEW COVID-19 VARIANT PRESIDENTIAL ANTI-RED TAPE EMERGENCY POWERS SIGNED INTO LAW INCREASE IN PHILHEALTH MEMBER CONTRIBUTIONS POSTPONED PRESIDENT DUTERTE OFFERS COMPROMISE TO FIRECRACKER MANUFACTURERS
COVID-19 NEWS
PH GOV’T TO LAUNCH INFO DRIVE; BOOST PUBLIC TRUST ON VACCINE STRINGENT SCREENING OF VACCINE CANDIDATES ASSURED
CONTENTS
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INFOCUS
COVER
Caraga
STATEMENT OF PRESIDENTIAL COMMUNICATIONS SECRETARY MARTIN ANDANAR ON THE DEATH OF MMDA CHAIRMAN DANILO LIM
W
e extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to the family and loved ones of Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Danilo Lim.
MMDA Chairman Lim has been instrumental in the Duterte Administration’s management and administration of key reforms, projects, and development programs throughout Metro Manila from 2017 up until his untimely death this year. May his professionalism and integrity in working for the government inspire everyone, especially the person who will succeed him in his post, so that the positive growth and change in Metro Manila and our collective growth as a nation may continue. We pray for the eternal repose of his soul, and for his family and loved ones to find strength in this time of grief.
- SEC. MARTIN M. ANDANAR
PH GOV’T OFFICIALS EXPLAIN VACCINATION PROGRAM FOR ALL FILIPINOS By Jennifer P. Gaitano During the first vaccine cluster briefing hosted by the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) and Philippine Information Agency (PIA), government officials assured Filipinos on the implementation of the vaccination program this year. Invited guest speakers are National Task Force (NTF) Chief Implementer and Vaccine Czar Sec. Carlito Galvez Jr.; NTF Deputy Chief Implementer Sec. Vince Dizon; Philippine Information Agency Director-General Usec. Ramon Cualoping III; Food and Drug Administration DirectorGeneral Usec. Eric Domingo; Department of Science and Technology
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Executive Director Jaime Montoya; and World Health Organization Representative Dr. Socorro Escalante. Usec. Cualoping highlighted that it has always been the vision of President Rodrigo Duterte since 2016 to provide a
comfortable life for all the Filipino people. “And now in the midst of the pandemic, it is our goal to have a safe and effective vaccine available for all Filipinos,” he said. “Bida Solusyon is the government’s strong and cohesive information
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Cualoping
Dizon
Galvez
campaign against the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. It aims to encourage Filipinos to take an active role in the fight against the common enemy.
With Bida Solusyon plus the availability of the vaccines, we hope to bring the lives of Filipinos back to normal,� added Cualoping. Secretary Galvez
also stressed that no one will be left behind, all Filipinos will be vaccinated. The government is negotiating with the different companies/ suppliers to ensure the supply of the vaccine. “Health care workers, indigent senior citizens, poor communities, uniformed personnel, teachers and school workers, government workers, essential workers, vulnerable and comorbid groups, Overseas Filipino Workers, other remaining workforce, and students are among the priority sectors to be vaccinated,� Galvez bared.
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Montoya
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Galvez further said that the expanded vaccine access is in partnership with the private sector and the local government units (LGUs). “The vaccine program is not the sole responsibility of the government. This is the reason why the wholeof-government and the whole-of-nation approach shall be adopted, maximizing manpower, expertise, and processes to ensure integrated implementation of the COVID-19 immunization program,” he said. Dr. Jaime Montoya of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-Philippine Council
for Health Research and Development emphasized that the task group on Scientific Evaluation and Selection reviews the results of clinical trials, existing evidence, and international recommendations to ensure that the best vaccine will be chosen that is safe and effective for the Filipinos. “Complying to scientific standards ensures that a COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective for humans. It also guarantees that the trials conducted followed the highest ethical requirements/ standards. All vaccine
candidates are required to undergo clinical trials, or experiments involving humans, to test its safety and efficacy,” he said. M e a n w h i l e , according to Secretary Vince Dizon, NTF Deputy Chief Implementer, the target number of Filipinos to be vaccinated this year is at 50 to 70 million Filipinos. “We believe that with the support of the Filipino people, we could achieve this goal. We thank the LGUs, mayors, governors, and other officials, as well as the private sector who have been with us since the onset of the pandemic,” said Sec. Dizon. (JPG/PIACaraga)
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News Briefs The staff of Sen. Christopher Lawrence Go, and other national line agencies visited the municipalities of Tagbina and Tago town today, Jan. 8 to extend assistance to the beneficiaries affected by TD Vicky last month. The initial 500 beneficiaries per municipality received food packs and cash assistance worth P3,000.00. Lucky winners also received mountain bikes from Sen. Go. xx
Members of the Caraga Balik Probinsya, Bagong Pag-asa (BP2) Program convene virtually today, to conduct its 1st Quarter 2021 Special BP2 Meeting via Zoom, with CORDS XIII Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles presiding. The meeting will primarily discuss the program’s Regional Action Plan (RAP) for its implementation in the region and its integration to the proposed projects, plans, and activities (PPAs) for regionwide development for FY 2021. In his brief speech, CabSec Nograles thanked the presence of the Regional Development Council (RDC) members and expressed his hopes for the successful implementation of the matters to be discussed during the meeting.
Eighty-seven percent (87%) of total Interim Reimbursement Mechanism released nationwide has been FULLY liquidated to PhilHealth as of December 13, 2020. (PhilHealth) Director General Ramon Cualoping of the Philippine Information Agency emphasized during today’s first vaccine cluster briefing that the aim of the Philippine government is to save lives, revive hopes and shape the future of Filipinos.
REGIONAL NEWS
KALAHI-CIDSS CARAGA HITS 100% OF NCDDP COMMUNITY PROJECTS FOR 2020 The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga has once again proven that it is one of the topperforming field offices of the agency in the entire country as it posted a 100 percent completion rate for its Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KalahiCIDSS) Program, completing all the 202 target subprojects (SPs) under the National Community-Driven Development Program (NCDDP). Kalahi-CIDSS is one of the poverty alleviation programs of the government being implemented by DSWD. Due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, Kalahi-CIDSS have adopted the Disaster Response Operation Caraga INFOCUS
Procedure (DROP), allowing the program to shift from developmental activities into a disasterresponse modality to immediately address health issues. The NCDDP subprojects are implemented in the local government units (LGUs) of Tagana-an, Placer, Malimono, and San Francisco in Surigao del Norte province; Dinagat, San Jose, and Basilisa in Dinagat Island province; and in Madrid, Bayabas, and Barobo in Surigao del Sur province. The 202 completed SPs under NCDDP are as follows: -Construction/ Installation of quarantine/ isolation facility - 69 SPs - Cash for Work – 65 SPs -Procurement of Disaster Response/ Rescue Equipment – 34 SPs -Procurement of
communication device – 7 SPs - C o m m u n a l handwash facility – 7 SPs - Sanitary toilet - 5 SPs -Refurbishment/ conversion of Community Center / Multi-Purpose Building into isolation facility – 5 SPs - Refurbishment of school building – 3 SPs - Refurbishment of day care center – 3 SPs - Refurbishment of barangay hall – 2 SPs Installation of water system – 1 SP - Capability Building / Training / Feasibility Study – 1 SP Kalahi-CIDSS Regional Program Coordinator Bennette Dave Calo is thankful to all partner LGUs and to the Regional Program Management Office and field staff for the said success. “To all our partner LGUs and stakeholders, January 2-8, 2021 |
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thank you for your unwavering support and desire in the implementation of KalahiCIDSS NCDDP despite the challenges and struggles brought by the pandemic,” Calo said. “To all RPMO and field staff who accept and dares to believe in struggles, thank
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you for stepping up in overcoming these challenges. Congratulations on the brilliant success. Indeed, there is no shortcut to success,” Calo added. Meanwhile, eight out of 10 target subprojects for 2020 under the PAyapa at MAsaganang
PamayaNAn Indigenous Peoples CommunityDriven Development (PAMANA IP CDD) are still ongoing. The RPMO and Area Coordinating Teams are working overtime to finish these projects as soon as possible for the beneficiary communities. (DSWD-13/PIA-Caraga)
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PSA CARAGA ENJOINS SUPPORT FOR JANUARY 2021 LFS, CHED RIDER QUESTIONS The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) in Caraga will conduct the January 2021 Labor Force Survey (LFS) and rider questions of the Commission of Higher Education (CHED) and the UN Women. With a regional sample of approximately 2,144 housing units, it is deemed sufficient to provide regional level estimates. In Caraga, about 48 statistical researchers and field personnel will be involved employing an integrated ComputerAided Data Collection System (CADaCS) for the survey. The LFS is a nationwide quarterly survey of households conducted by the PSA to gather data on the demographic and socioeconomic characteristics of the population. Whereas the CHED’s rider questions on the school-to-work transition aims to provide data Caraga INFOCUS
support on the challenge to shorten the school-towork transition and raise youth employment rate. The UN Women’s rider questions aims to collect data on the gendered impacts or consequences of COVID-19. In line with this, the PSA encourages everyone, especially the sample households, to support and cooperate in the conduct of the January 2021 LFS. The
data collection will start on January 8 to 31, 2021. All information collected by the hired Statistical Researchers from the sample households shall be kept strictly confidential and shall not be used for purposes of taxation, investigation or regulation as provided under Article 55 of Republic Aact 10625. (PSA Caraga/PIA Caraga) January 2-8, 2021 |
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PROVINCIAL NEWS
CONTINUOUS DEBACLES PLAGUE NPA TERRORISTS IN CARAGA By 1Lt. Krisjuper Andreo Punsalan
Another Communist New People’s Army Terrorist (CNT) died recently and five high-powered firearms were seized in an hour-long encounter between the 3rd Special Forces “Arrowhead” Battalion (3SFBn) troops under the 4th Infantry Division and more or Caraga INFOCUS
less 30 CNTs under the Sub-Regional Sentro De Grabidad (SRSDG) Southland, Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee led by Rizaldy Sumonod alias “Mansoy” in Sitio Paradise, Barangay Magsaysay, Agusan del Sur. These five firearms
recovered consisted of three M16 5.56 caliber rifles, one AK-47 rifle. Other war materials recovered were: one IHLbanned anti-personnel land mine, nine rounds 40mm M203 grenade launcher ammos, 50 rounds 7.62mm M60 ammos, two sets of January 2-8, 2021 |
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commercial radios, 15 backpacks and personal belongings, medical supplies and equipment, three keypad cellular phones, one touch screen android phone, and 20 meters electrical wire. The discovered CNT hideout is about 200 square meters (10mx20m) which can accommodate more or less 30 CNTs and had 15 makeshift tents and kitchen paraphernalia. With the recent efforts of the National Task Force in Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) in exposing the deceptive scheme and the grand conspiracy of the Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA-National Democratic Front (NDF) within various sectors of society, people in CARAGA, particularly the Indigenous Peoples (IPs), vowed to track down Communist NPA Terrorists and their front group leaders such as the Malahutayong Pakigbisog Alang sa Sumusunod (MAPASU) to put an end to their countless atrocities and crimes against the people.
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It can be recalled that CNT Jevilyn Cullamat, daughter of Bayan Muna Representative Eufemia Campos Cullamat, and top CNT leader and spokesperson of the NDF Mindanao and Komisyun Mindanao (KOMMID) Alvin Loque, suffered the same tragic fate last November 28 and December 10 sequentially in Surigao del Sur as a result of the vigilance and information gathering of the IP communities. CNT personalities and their front groups were already declared persona-non-grata in the whole Province of Surigao del Sur and in the municipality of Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur where the recent clash between government forces and CNTs ensued. “The succeeding debacles of the NPA Terrorists in Caraga only show that people had enough of them. They no longer have a safe haven in the IP communities because for sure they will be reported and tracked down,” said Lt. Col. Joey Baybayan, 3SFBn Commanding Officer. “We are saddened with the fact that another victim of the CPP-NPA-
NDF died in vain. We do not want this that is why we need to support the NTF-ELCAC to put an end to the CNTs’ useless struggle by peacefully addressing the root causes of NPA terrorismthat of peace and development program implementation for the conflict-affected and geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas where CNTs recruit and conduct Ideological, Political and Organizing works (IPOW),” said BGen. Allan Hambala, 401st Infantry Brigade Commander. “We call on the remaining CNTs to bring their firearms and go down to surrender and return to the folds of law. The door towards a peaceful life is always open for those who wish to peacefully surrender. Having that said, we will remain focused and enthusiastic on our mission to end local communist armed conflict in the soonest time possible in the Caraga region,” underscored MGen. Andres C. Centino, Commander of 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army. (CMO, 3SFBn/PIA-Agusan del Sur) Caraga INFOCUS
AGSUR YOUTH LEADERS SAY NO TO CPP-NPA-NDF By 2Lt. Cecille Tappa The Propelling Our Inherited Nation Through Youth Inc. (POINTY) youth leaders from different municipalities of Agusan del Sur have recently expressed their condemnation on the atrocities and deceptions of the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPPNPA-NDF) during its 2nd Provincial Meeting held at the headquarters of the 26th Infantry Battalion (26IB), Philippine Army. The activity was aimed to increase the awareness of the youth sector about the deceptive recruitment of the said terrorist group and to empower them about their significant role in nation-building. A total of 17 POINTY youth leaders attended the said activity. “My utmost gratitude to the Armed Forces of the Philippines for giving us the chance to nurture in our role on nation-building, to my co-leaders, let’s be Caraga INFOCUS
an advocate of peace and development. As members of the youth sector, we are here to correct the mistakes of the past. We will not allow these left-leaning organizations to deceive us,” said Aubrey Guttierez, POINTY leader. The youth is considered as a vulnerable sector for recruitment for they are prone to radicalization and violent extremism. During the open forum, they had various agenda pertaining to the sustainment and improvement of the POINTY organization. Everyone got the chance to present updates on their upcoming programs, projects and activities to their respective municipalities for the calendar year 2021.
“The youth plays a significant role in our society, some of them will be the future legislators and leaders. At their very young age, let us mold their character to become good and useful citizens of our country,” underlined Lt. Col. Reynald Romel A. Goce, 26IB Commanding Officer. “I challenge all the parents out there, it is our duty to protect our children against the communist terrorists groups. To the youth sector, be part of the change and help the government in peacebuilding. Also, encourage your fellows to be part of this campaign. To the NPAs, stop recruiting the youth, hands off,” Goce ended. (Acting CMO, 26IB/PIA-Agusan del Sur) January 2-8, 2021 |
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56 FORMER REBELS RECEIVE E-CLIP BENEFITS IN AGSUR By 2Lt. Cecille Tappa
Fifty-six (56) former rebels (FRs) from the province of Agusan del Sur received benefits during the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) Awarding held recently at the Naliyagan Ground, Patinay, Prosperidad, this province. The province awarded livelihood assistance amounting to P50,000.00, immediate assistance of
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P15,000.00 and firearms remuneration to the 31 FRs of 3rd Special Forces Battalion, 26 FRs of 26 Infantry (Ever Onward) Battalion, three FRs of Philippine National Police and one FR of 401st Infantry (Unity) Brigade. “Dako kaayo among pasalamat kay tinood gayud ang gisaad kanamu nga kami pagatabangan sa gobyerno alang sa among pagsugod sa bag-ong kinabuhi nga
gawasnon kauban ang among pamilya, kining maong kantidad daku na kini ug ikatabang aron kami maka tukod sa among panginabuhian diri patag uban ang among pamilya, ug ako naga agni sa among kanhi kaubanan nga anaa pa sa kabukiran nga musurender na aron makabaton usan kamu ug kalinaw sa pag puyo uban ang inyong mga mahal sa kinabuhi (We are very thankful that the Caraga INFOCUS
government has been true to its promise to us, as we will start a new life with our family in the mainstream society. This financial assistance is of great help for our family, and I’m encouraging those who are still in the movement to surrender and live a peaceful dwelling),” said alias ‘Jorja’, a former rebel. E-CLIP is a government program intended for the reintegration of all members of the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People’s Army - National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) who will support the peace negotiation program of the government and ultimately lay down their arms to the fold of law. It was made possible through the generous support of Agusan del Sur Gov. Santiago B. Cane Jr. in collaboration with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Provincial Social Welfare and Development (PSWD), Department of Health (DOH), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). Caraga INFOCUS
“The pandemic has brought huge changes in our lives, it affects every Filipino, but the provincial government will not cease to look for innovation and initiatives to implement the government programs to all our constituents especially to our brothers and sisters who have decided to choose the right path in the mainstream society,” underscored Cane. Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Reynald Romel A Goce, Commanding Officer of 26IB cheered all the FRs upon receiving the E-CLIP benefits. “Congratulations to all of you who have just received the livelihood
and immediate assistance from the government. I hope that you will be wise in spending all of your money, start a business and earn a living. The government is always ready to help you, but first, you must help yourselves,” he said. “Our door remains open in accepting those who want to live a peaceful life. We are offering you a way out to surrender but if you continue to resist, I will assure you that the government will stop you until no one is left in the armed struggle,” Goce ended. (Acting CMO, 26IB/PIA-Agusan del Sur) January 2-8, 2021 |
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ARMY DISTRIBUTES GIFT PACKAGES TO FAR-FLUNG VILLAGERS IN AGSUR TOWN
The residents of Sitio Kamalangan, Barangay Binicalan, San Luis of this province have recently received gift packages from the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division (4ID), Philippine Army. The 4ID under the command of Major General Andres C. Centino initiated the said activity as a way of sharing blessings to the underprivileged, those who lack access to better opportunities, far-flung and isolated communities in its area of operation. A total of 503 residents received the gift packages which consisted of foods, clothes, slippers, shoes, blankets, sleeping mats, mosquito nets, toys,
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and school supplies. The distribution was facilitated by the 26th Infantry (Ever Onward) Battalion. Sitio Kamalangan of Brgy. Binicalan was chosen as the beneficiary since it is considered as one of the remote communities in the province. Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Reynald Romel A. Goce expressed his gratitude to 4ID for choosing Sitio Kamalangan as the beneficiary in its area of operations. “Thank you to 4ID team for bringing cheers to the residents in this far-flung barangay,” he said. “The leadership of 4ID continues to intensify linkages with the different stakeholders in order to
reach out to all remotely isolated areas in our Area of Operations. Our main goal for conducting this kind of activity is to bring the spirit of Christmas to the locals amidst COVID-19,” said Maj. Gen. Centino. “It is our genuine desire to give hope and joy to the less fortunate people this holiday season. We will not stop here, there’s more we can offer to the people with the support of our active partner agencies, I guarantee that the government services will reach even into the most isolated areas,” he added. (2Lt. Cecille Tappa, acting CMO, 26IB/PIA-Agusan del Sur) Caraga INFOCUS
ARMY GIVES GIFTS TO CONFLICT-AFFECTED AREAS IN AGUSAN NORTE By Cpt. Joash U. Pramis
The Philippine Army through the 29th Infantry “Matatag Fighters” Battalion (29IB) in partnership with the local government unit of Jabonga conducted a Christmas drop program in Sitio Apa-apa, Barangay Bangonay, Jabonga, Agusan del Norte. The said activity is a credit initiative of 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division (4iD) Caraga INFOCUS
Commander, MGen. Andres C. Centino for the people of conflictaffected areas to feel that the government cares for them. The activity was an integration of various sectors of the government which includes the Philippine Army through the efforts of 901st Brigade, 29IB and 30IB, the local government unit of Jabonga led by Mayor
Napoleon Montero. Food packs, toys, and clothes were distributed to more than 200 residents of Sitio Inayaw and Sitio Apaapa, Jabonga, Agusan del Norte. Marwin Serrano, punong barangay of Sitio Apa-apa, thanked the army for the gifts they have received. “Akong dakong pasalamat kay ania ang mga January 2-8, 2021 |
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kasundaluhan niduyog ug nanghatag ug regalo diri sa amua, nga ilaha ming gitagaan ug saktong pagtagad labi natong mga lumad. Daghan kaayong salamat (I am very grateful that the troops are here to join and give gifts here in front of us, who have given us the proper attention especially our natives. Thank you very much),” he said. For his part, Mayor Napoleon Montero was very happy to see his constituents attending the activity of the Philippine Army. “We are lucky that in most barangays, Barangay Bangonay has been chosen to receive Christmas gifts so
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I hope we will not support another group- the NPA because the Philippine Army is here to help,” he said. “On behalf of LGU Jabonga, we are very thankful to the Philippine Army that they chose Brgy. Bangonay to this program,” added Mayor Montero. According to Col. George Banzon, 901 Brigade Commander, the said activity is their continuous plan to manifest and make the people feel the spirit of Christmas. “This is not just about the efforts of our soldiers alone, we, the soldiers are just instruments of the government to deliver all of these,” Col.
Banzon said. “Along with the hope of Mayor Montero, I am appealing to you if you know someone, friends, and classmates in school who are deceived by the NPAs to go with them and join them in moving into the mountains for their armed struggle, please let us save them. Let us neglect our friends who are deceived by twisted words, by twisted promises,” he added. Col. Banzon emphasized that the residents can ask for help and in return, the troops are ever willing to help those whoever will seek help. (CMO Officer, 901 Infantry
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KONSTRUKSYON SA BAGONG TULAY SA AGUSAN DEL NORTE SINIMULAN NA By Nora C. Lanuza Sinimulan na ang konstruksyon ng higit kalahating kilometrong tulay na inaasahang makakatulong sa paglago ng ekonomiya sa probinsya ng Agusan del Norte at karatig lugar nito. Ang nasabing tulay ay pinaglaanan ng pamahalaan ng isa’t kalahating bilyong pisong pondo. Laking pasasalamat ni Mayor Avelina Rosales ng Las Nieves kay Presidente Rodrigo Duterte sa tulong ni Caraga INFOCUS
Congresswoman Maria Angelica Rosedell Amante-Matba dahil sa pag-apruba ng konstrukyon nito. Ayon pa ni Rosales, matagal na itong hinihintay ng mga mamamayan sa lugar, simula pa noong taong 2015. Ang konstruksyon ay magsisimula sa Barangay Malicato at sinuguro ni Gobernador Dale Corvera na sa loob ng tatlo hanggang limang taong konstruksyon ng tulay, tuloy-tuloy ang budget nito.
Siniguro din ni Cong. Matba na sa gagawing konstruksyon sa tulay, magkakaroon ng trabaho ang mga mamamayan sa nasabing lugar. Sa ginawang ground breaking ceremony, ipinaalam din ni Project Engr. Jerome Meso na magsisimula na ang konstruksyon nito. Ang Las Nieves ay may 20 barangays at isang second class municipality na may 28,414 populasyon base sa 2015 census. (NCLM/ PIA Agusan del Norte) January 2-8, 2021 |
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MAYO GIDEKLARANG BULAN SA PAMILYA SA LGU CARMEN By Ramil L. Pasco
Mamahimo nang ‘Family Month’ ang bulan sa Mayo sa lungsod sa Carmen ning lalawigan kada tuig human giaprobahan ug gidiklarang balido sa Sangguniang Panlalawigan sa Agusan del Norte atol sa ika 70 nga sesyon regular kaniadtong Desyembre 21, 2020 ang Municipal Ordinance No. 622020 nga nagdeklara niini. Nakita sa Committee on Municipal Affairs diin tsirman si Board Member Meriam G. Pagaran nga ang nahisgutang lakang nahiuyon sa Article II, Section 12 of the 1987 Constitution, nga naghatag estado nga giila ang kabalaan sa kinabuhi sa pamilya nga mapanalipdan ug palig-onon aron sa ingon nga kini ang prayoridad nga pagdumala sa kaugalingon diha sa
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katilingban ug kabahin na sa atong kultora. Subay usab kini sa Proclamation No. 847, nga giisyu ni kanhing pangulo Benigno C. Aquino III, nga gideklara nga ang ika-upat nga domingo sa Septyembre isip adlaw sa pasalamat sa pamilya. Ang maong lakang gipalabang pinaagi sa Sanggunian Resolution No. 602-2020 sa pagpanginahan ni Board Member Pagaran, tsirman sa Committee on Municipal Affairs, inubanan nila Board Member Benjamin D. Lim Jr. ug Board Member Francisco Y. Chan, Jr., isip mga co-authors. (LGU Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte) Caraga INFOCUS
ARMY DISCOVERS CNT’S ARMS CACHE IN SURIGAO DEL NORTE The troops of the 30th Infantry Battalion (30IB), Philippine Army discovered an arms cache of the communist New Peoples Army (NPA) terrorists or CNTs in the vicinity of Tugnawan, Sitio Little Baguio, Brgy. Payapag, Bacuag in this province, morning of December 27, 2020. Based on the report, the 30IB launched an operation in response to the information revealed by a former rebel regarding the whereabouts of CNT’s cache containing high powered firearms and war materials in the said area. The recovered numerous firearms include one caliber 5.56 AR18 rifle with SN BB777999; one AK47 Rifle with SN 5508081; one caliber 30 M1 Garrand Rifle; one caliber .22 Springfield Rifle with SN 2094577; one Hagen Shotgun; three anti-personnel Caraga INFOCUS
mines; 76 rounds 7.62 live ammunition for AK47; 31 rounds 7.62 live ammunition for caliber 30 M1 Garrand, assorted magazines; three magazines for AK47; 250 meters electrical wire; and batteries. The said war materials are believed to be owned by the elements of Guerilla Front 16, NEMRC. Col. George L. Banzon, commander of 901st Infantry (Fight’Em) Brigade, said that the discovery of the firearms was a clear manifestation that many are displeased of the existence of the communist terrorist group (CTG). “In most of our successful operations, if it’s not the civilians, it’s the former rebels (FRs) who disclose the whereabouts of their hideouts, caches and the likes. This clearly suggests that our people
including the FRs are disgruntled and tired of the CTG atrocities and they want to end insurgency,” he said. Col. Banzon said that they will continue to pursue the remaining members of the CTG in order to ensure the safety and security of the communities in Surigao del Norte. He added that the remarkable gains in the counterinsurgency campaign in the province were results of the convergence of efforts among different sectors of the society. “We have achieved these gains because the local populace had seen and appreciated the efforts of the government in pursuing genuine peace by facilitating the convergence to address insurgency,” he said. (901st Infantry (Fight’Em) Brigade/PIA-Surigao del Norte) January 2-8, 2021 |
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MORE SURIGAONON FARMERS TO BENEFIT FROM ANOTHER FMR The Department of Agriculture – Caraga Philippine Rural Development Project (DA-CPRD) has turned-over recently a 4.6-kilometer Farm to Market Road (FMR) connecting Barangay Bad-as and Barangay Maslog in Placer town, this province. The total project cost of the rehabilitation/ construction/concreting of the said FMR has amounted to P81,573,000 with a total of 708
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households benefiting from the project. DA Deputy Project Director Jodal A. Tabada said that she is thankful for the partnership between the DA-PRDP Caraga and the local government unit that made the project possible. She was hopeful that the project will help in further developing the agricultural and fishery activities in the municipality. Tabada also
said that boosting the agricultural and fishery production will help keep the town food-secure which is very important especially at this time when there are a lot of transport and travel restrictions because of the pandemic. She urged the project beneficiaries to manage the project well to make it last longer so that many more can benefit from it. (DA-Caraga/PIA-Surigao del Norte) Caraga INFOCUS
SURIGAO PORT FRONTLINERS GET DISINFECTANT ALCOHOL FROM PH DISTILLERY By NC Nusog
With the start of the new year, frontliners serving the Port of Surigao received muchvalued assistance in the continuing fight against the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID 19), courtesy of Tanduay Distillers Incorporated. Boxes of 70% ethyl alcohol containing two dozens of 375 ml. bottles were given recently for the use of port frontliners Caraga INFOCUS
by representatives of Tanduay Distillers led by Earl Matthew F. Uy, the company’s local area sales coordinator, and were received by Port Manager Officer-inCharge Froilan Caturla. A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lucio Tan (LT) Group, Tanduay has been producing ethyl alcohol since the middle part of 2020 to help address the
alcohol shortage among medical facilities. The company possessed some of the most modern and the best distilleries in the country which were temporarily converted to produce ethyl alcohol as a way of doing its part to keep communities safe from the spread of COVID 19. (PPA-PMO/PIA-Surigao del Norte) January 2-8, 2021 |
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MINDANAO NEWS
PIÑOL SEEKS AMENDMENT TO RICE TARIFFICATION LAW By Prexx Marnie Kate Trozo Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Secretary Emmanuel Piñol is seeking an amendment to the Rice Tariffication Law (RTL) to assure farmers that the market will not be flooded with imported rice when they harvest. “Earlier today (Wednesday), local radio station DXND asked me in a live interview on what should be done to avert a looming world rice supply crisis as Vietnam, the Philippines’ main source of rice, has itself started importing rice from India. I made two simple recommendations based on my experience as a local government executive, former Agriculture Secretary, and most of all, as a farmer,” he said in a statement Wednesday. Apart from revising the RTL, the MinDA chair also seeks at using an amended Magna Carta for Small Farmers as the legal leg, government Caraga INFOCUS
could set a ‘palay’ farm gate price of PHP20 per kilo to be followed by both the National Food Authority (NFA) and the commercial traders. Piñol added that if such recommendations are considered, the farmers will immediately start plowing the fields to plant rice because they know they will make money. “To avert an impending world rice supply crisis, however, these recommendations must be implemented right away,” he said. He also recounted that in early 2000 when the price of milled rice went through the roof and the Philippines had to import rice at over USD1,000 per metric ton. “With the farm gate price of palay hitting historic high, almost all available spaces, including the road allowance along the national highway were planted with rice. The point is if the rice farmer knows he will make money and
he will be protected by the government, he would not even wait for the free seeds or fertilizer or the ridiculous “cash and food aid” being distributed by the Department of Agriculture (DA),” Piñol stressed. Those who are saying that we do not have the area to plant rice should join me in my journeys to the countryside in Mindanao and I will gladly show them the vast unutilized plains around the Agusan Marsh, Liguasan Marsh, and Lake Lanao, just to name a few, he said. “Some may view these as over-simplifying a complex global supply problem but that is what it really is, a simple problem with simple solutions. So many ideas could be presented to address the problem but everything boils down to one question: Will the rice farmer make decent income-producing rice?” Piñol added. (PNA) January 2-8, 2021 |
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MINDANAO BAMBOO SUMMIT SLATED JAN. 19 The Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) will convene bamboo stakeholders from all over the region in a face-to-face and virtual Summit on January 19 to organize the Mindanao Bamboo Industry Council. S e c r e t a r y Emmanuel Piñol said in a public announcement Friday that the Mindanao Bamboo Summit will be held at the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) Conference Hall in Cagayan de Oro City where the major stakeholders, including representatives of the different agencies, will meet face-to-face. He said that representatives of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) are expected to provide inputs on how they can support the Mindanao Bamboo Industry. Piñol added that
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Contributed photo
DBP President Emmanuel Herbosa will also join the face-to-face conference and is expected to present financing windows for the Bamboo Industry which will be made accessible to both farmers and processors. “Other stakeholders who could not join the face-to-face organization meeting could participate through a Zoom Virtual Conference starting at 5 p.m.,” he added. He said Bukidnon Giant Bamboo (BGB) Resources Corp. President Rod Bioco will make a presentation on the current state and
prospect of the Mindanao Bamboo Industry. “The BGB Corporation has established a bamboo processing facility in Malaybalay, Bukidnon, and is currently buying giant bamboo poles from farmers in the area,” the MinDA chief said. The Mindanao Bamboo Industry Council is being organized by MinDA as part of its programs to promote the greening of Mindanao’s critical watersheds and headwaters while at the same time providing income opportunities for the people. (PNA) Caraga INFOCUS
NATIONAL NEWS
PHASE 1 OF BUKIDNON AIRPORT NEARS COMPLETION By Nef Luczon The “Phase One” development of the planned airport terminal in Bukidnon province has reached a 98 percent completion rate, according to the local chief executive of Don Carlos town on Thursday. Mayor Victoria Ontanillas-Pizarro shared the engineering earthworks for the project are almost complete, while “Phases 2 and 3” are about to begin this year. “For the Phase 4, the construction of the (airport) terminal building, we will fund it from the 2021 general (national appropriations allotment) budget,” she said, during the Network Briefing News with Secretary Martin Andanar, chief of the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO).
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CONSTRUCTION UPDATES. Mayor Victoria Ontanillas-Pizarro shares the recent developments on the construction of Bukidnon airport in Don Carlos, Bukidnon province. The mayor said on Thursday (Jan. 7, 2021) “Phase 1” of the airport’s earthworks is now at 98 percent complete. (Photo courtesy of PCOO)
She said the land acquisition from private property owners is now at 85 percent, and the relocation of affected families is almost complete. O n t a n i l l a s Pizarro said they have plans to improve the infrastructure projects in their municipalities, including the funding of the construction of a commercial mall, sixlane municipal roads, and installation of street lights and traffic closed-circuit televisions (CCTVs) to complement the construction of the terminal. The airport project is located in Barangay Maraymaray, about 7.3 kilometers away from the town’s commercial
center, with an area of 149 hectares. Based on the recent report from the National Economic Development Authority in Region 10 (Neda-10), about PHP20 million was allocated for the initial site acquisition in 2015, which was undertaken by the municipal government. In 2017, additional funding of PHP34 million was provided for the ongoing acquisition. The Department of Transportation also forged a Memorandum of Agreement with the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines for the improvement of landside and airside facilities of the airport amounting to PHP630 million. (PNA) Caraga INFOCUS
PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP WILL HELP GOV’T ACHIEVE ZERO HUNGER GOAL - NOGRALES “Closer and more sustained cooperation with the private sector will further strengthen government’s efforts to address hunger and health concerns brought about by the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.” This was the key message of Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles during the Pilipinas Kontra Gutom (PKG) kick-off event last Wednesday, January 6, 2020 which was attended by stakeholders and program partners from the private sector. The PKG is a multisectoral collaboration involving government, the academe, non-profit organizations, private corporations and members of the general public meant to address the root causes of involuntary hunger. Its objectives are strategically aligned with the aims of the Duterte administration’s “zero hunger” drive under the National Food Policy. “We will formulate and urgently implement sustainable solutions to Caraga INFOCUS
increase access to nutritious food, stabilize supply and improve the general food security situation in the country. Our initial priority involves hungerstricken communities hard hit by calamities and the pandemic. We are strongly driven by the spirit of Bayanihan. We heal as one, we act as one, and we succeed as one nation,” the Malacañang official stressed. Based on survey results of the Social Weather Station last November 2125, 2020, around 16.0% or four million families experienced involuntary hunger, or those who had no or minimal access to food in the last three months. “We have engaged and encouraged private sector participation in the PKG initiative because we are entering a crucial period where a prolonged health crisis brought about by Covid-19 can lead to a bigger food and nutrition crisis especially for economically-vulnerable Filipinos. We don’t want
that to happen and we will prevent that from happening through this close partnership among stakeholders,” the former legislator said. Nograles, who likewise heads the administration’s Zero Hunger Task Force as well as IATF-EID Co-Chair, also took time during the program to thank the country’s medical frontliners and volunteers who “selflessly sacrifice their time and lives to rid the population of the deadly corona virus.” “We’re fighting different but related challenges now, aside from Covid19 there is also the compounded problem of hunger and malnutrition. While we wait for the arrival of vaccines, we repeat our plea for everyone to be extra cautious and follow all health protocols. Our success in all our ongoing endeavors relies on every Filipino’s discipline, hard work and full cooperation.” January 2-8, 2021 |
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GORDON CONDEMNS BRUTAL KILLING OF BARANGAY TANOD IN FLORIDABLANCA, PAMPANGA Senator Richard J. Gordon condemned the brutal killing of barangay tanod Joseph Gregorio, 58 years old, on Monday at the checkpoint he was manning in Barangay Del Carmen, Floridablanca, Pampanga. “These brutal crimes committed by people riding-in-tandem who kill with impunity even in broad daylight must stop,” Gordon said. “Law enforcement officials must exert all efforts to catch the perpetrators and bring them to justice,” he continued. An appalled Gordon renewed his call to put an end to the violent killings perpetrated by ridingin-tandem assassins by implementing Republic Act 11235 or the Motorcycle Crime Prevention Act of 2019.
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“If RA 11235 is already implemented, riding-in-tandem criminals would not be able to escape easily since the number plates would be easily read. Law enforcers would also be able trace the owner of the motorcycle used in the crime because the number plates are colorcoded and a complete database will be kept in the operations center that will be jointly operated by the PNP (Philippine National Police) and the LTO (Land Transportation Office),” Gordon pointed out. “Hence, I am calling on the LTO, anew, to ensure that the law is implemented as soon as possible. We really have no time to lose, we have to be serious about eradicating criminality
now,” he added. Barangay CCTV footages showed that Gregorio, along with another barangay tanod, were manning a quarantine checkpoint located in front of a school and only several meters away from the barangay hall. He was checking out passing vehicles when the killers, on board a motorcycle, stopped in front of him. Without even alighting, the gunman shot the barangay official on the head at close range. He continued to fire four more shots at Gregorio, even after the latter already fell dead, before they sped away. A man riding a bicycle pedalled furiously away after he saw the killer fire the first shot. Caraga INFOCUS
FACILITATE VALIDATION OF COVID TESTING CONDUCTED, ASSIGN REP TO PRC - GORDON TO PHILHEALTH Senator Richard J. Gordon, chairman and CEO of the Philippine Red Cross, advised the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) to assign a point person or representative to the PRC to facilitate the validation of claims of members who are tested for COVID-19. Gordon reiterated the call after the state Caraga INFOCUS
health insurer cited the slow process of verification of claims as the reason for the delay in meeting its obligation to the foremost humanitarian organization in the country. “We test kung ano ang pinadala nila. Anong deficiency sa names? ‘Yung listahan galing sa Coast Guard at LGUs (local government units).
Nasa pinirmahan naming kontrata, maglagay sila ng tao dun, hindi sila naglalagay ng tao. Tapos pag siningil mo, lahat ng rason sasabihin,” he said. After its obligations again ballooned to P823million, of which P687million is overdue, the PhilHealth asked for the PRC’s understanding for its delayed payment, adding that they have January 2-8, 2021 |
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to verify the claims one by one to comply with the accounting rules and regulations of the Commission on Audit in processing claims. It also claimed deficiencies in names of claimants also add to the delay. Under Section D, No. 4 of the Memorandum of Agreement signed between the PRC and PhilHealth, the health insurer is obliged to assign a point/contact person or representative for the PRC specifically to coordinate with and address concerns of the PhilHealth; Provided, that such point/contact person or representative shall assist PRC in
monitoring whether or not those being tested are covered by PhilHealth. No. 1 of the said section also provides that the PhilHealth “shall provide PRC with a data base of all persons with PhilHealth coverage to allow PRC to verify whether such persons are indeed covered for purposes of providing testing thereto.” But the PRC has yet to receive a data base. For faster and simplified process, the PRC is required, under the MOA, to submit duly accomplished case investigation forms, and a summary of test results
duly certified by PRC’s pathologist as submitted to the DOH and RITM and/ or attached agencies, as the only accepted proof of testing services. “Nagco-comply naman kami. Hiningi nila ‘yung hard copy (of customer information forms), binigay namin. Hiningi nila ‘yung soft copy binigay namin. Palaging may rason, kesyo hindi daw kumpleto dokumento. If we are forced to stop dahil wala na kaming maipaluwal to defray expenses, it would be more dangerous for the country, especially with the new variant,” Gordon stressed.
GORDON EYES REDUCED COVID TESTING COST WITH SALIVA TEST
Senator Richard J. Gordon, chairman and CEO of the Philippine Red Cross, eyes reducing the cost of COVID-19 testing using an alternative system – the saliva test, which is faster and 99.9% reliable. Gordon said they are hoping that the Health Technology Assessment Council would soon make a recommendation
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to the Department of Health in connection with the PRC’s application to be allowed to conduct saliva test for COVID-19. “Health Technology Assessment Council ang nag-e-examine. It’s taking them a long time, Oct. 17 pa sinubmit ‘yan at ginagamit na din ‘yan sa ibang bansa. Over one million COVID testing has been done using that, at
99.9% ang accuracy,” he said. HTAC is an independent advisory body created with the overall role of providing guidance to the DOH and the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) on the coverage of health interventions and technologies to be funded by the government. It is Caraga INFOCUS
mandated to undertake technology appraisals by determining their clinical and economic values in the Philippine healthcare system, with the aim to improve overall health outcomes and ensure fairness, equity, and sustainability of coverage for all Filipino citizens. Gordon further explained that the same machines used for RTPCR testing would also be used without needing the nasal and pharyngeal swab that use test kits. “Mas madali ito dahil hindi na kailangan Caraga INFOCUS
ng swab sa ilong at lalamunan. Kailangan lang dumura sa test tube. Mas mabilis din mapa-process at mailalabas ang results. Walang machines na bibilhin at matatangal din ang test kits kaya mababawasan din ang presyo ng testing. Hindi mabigat para sa ating mga kababayan na gustong magbayad dahil mas mura. Ganun din ang PhilHealth (Philippine Health Insurance Corporation), bababa ang kanilang gastusin na babayaran sa testing,�
he said. The University of Illinois launched a Manhattan Project– style effort to create a cheaper, faster COVID test. After running a successful pilot of the saliva test during the early part of the summer, the university conducted more than 1 million COVID tests during the recently-completed fall semester. The alternative delivers a result within hours rather than days at a total cost of $20 per test and is 99.9% accurate on specificity. January 2-8, 2021 |
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ZUBIRI FILES BILL SUSPENDING INCREASE IN PHILHEALTH PREMIUM CONTRIBUTIONS Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri, along with Sens. Grace Poe, Joel Villanueva, Nancy Binay, Win Gatchalian, and Sonny Angara, have filed Senate Bill 1968, amending the Universal Health Care Act (UHC Act) to suspend the scheduled increase in Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) premium contributions. In the UHC Act, under which all Filipino citizens are part of the National Health Insurance Program, PhilHealth premium contributions are scheduled to increase annually in increments of 0.5 percent of an individual’s monthly basic salary beginning 2021 until 2025. But owing to the
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current pandemic and its attendant economic impact on the Filipino people, this bill seeks to amend the UHC Act to postpone the scheduled increase to the year after any given public health emergency. “The PhilHealth premium increase is just not timely,” Zubiri said. “Napakaraming tao ang nawalan ng trabaho at hanapbuhay ngayong pandemya. Maraming natambakan ng mga bayarin sa ilaw, sa tubig, sa renta. Mabigat sa bulsa itong PhilHealth increase kung sakaling matuloy.” “And we have to understand why people would rather hold on to their hard-earned money than hand it over to PhilHealth, given
PhilHealth’s history,” he further said, referring to the corruption schemes within PhilHealth that went public last year. “We really have to resolve that first, and make sure that going forward, lahat ng contributions ay magagamit talaga ng taumbayan.” In an earlier statement, Sen. Bong Go has confirmed that President Rodrigo Duterte is in favor of passing a law that will postpone the increase in PhilHealth premium contributions, given the pandemic. “I believe in the UHC Act’s goals,” Zubiri stressed. “But we have to consider our current situation, and now is not the time for this PhilHealth increase.” Caraga INFOCUS
PH IMPOSES TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS TO SIX ADDITIONAL COUNTRIES WITH NEW COVID-19 VARIANT Effective January 8 until January 15, 2021, travelers from Portugal, India, Finland, Norway, Jordan, and Brazil or those with travel history to these countries 14 days prior to their arrival, will be subject to travel restrictions and/ or quarantine and testing protocols upon arrival in the Philippines, in light of the new COVID-19 variant. “Ang mga banyagang pasahero na manggagaling sa anim na bansang ito, or nagpunta sa mga nasabing bansa ng labingapat na araw bago dumating sa Pilipinas, ay pinagbabawalang makapasok sa Pilipinas,” said Presidential Spokesperson Secretary Harry Roque Jr in a press briefing in Malacañang on January 7, 2021. The Palace official said that Filipinos are exempt from the travel restriction as they will be allowed entry to the country even if they came from or have been Caraga INFOCUS
to the said countries within 14 days before their arrival. However, returning Filipinos will have to comply with the 14-day absolute facilitybased quarantine, even with a negative RT-PCR test result. With the expected surge in COVID-19 cases because of the Christmas and New Year celebrations, and with the possible entry of the new variant, the Palace spokesman said that it was necessary to impose such restriction. “Yung temporary travel ban ay hindi naman po masyadong matagal po, January 15, at ito po ay para mabigyan naman pagkakataon makapaghanda tayo kung magkaroon nga ng surge ng kaso,” said Secretary Roque. “Pero ang mabuting balita naman at salamat sa Panginoon, so far, hindi pa naman natin nakikita yung surge na galing po ng Pasko at Bagong Taon. Pero pinaghahandaan
po natin yan. Kaya nga nagkaroon tayo ng temporary travel ban hanggang January 15,” Sec. Roque said. Roque added that foreign passengers who will arrive before January 8, 12:01 AM, Manila time, from the said countries or who have travelled to the same countries within 14 days, will be allowed entry but will have to undergo an absolute facility-based 14-day quarantine period, even with a negative RT-PCR test result. January 2-8, 2021 |
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The Palace official further said that foreign and Filipino passengers who merely transited from the said countries will be allowed entry as long they do not leave the airport during layover or were not cleared for entry in the layover country. These transiting passengers will be allowed to do home quarantine if they obtain a negative RT-PCR test result. “Pero kung ang transiting foreign passengers na ito ay umalis ng airport or pinayagan makapasok sa mga bansang kasali sa travel restrictions ay hindi sila maaring makapasok sa Pilipinas,” Roque clarified. But for transiting Filipino passengers, even if they leave the airport or were cleared for entry in any of the countries in the list of countries with travel restrictions, they will still be allowed to enter the country but will be required to undergo an absolute facility-based 14-day quarantine period even with a negative RTPCR test result. Meanwhile, Sec. Roque said that the Office of the President also provided a
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ruling with regard to unaccompanied minor Filipino citizens from countries with travel restrictions. These unaccompanied minors will not be allowed entry to the country until January 15, 2021. Unaccompanied Filipino minors will only be allowed entry if they are included in the government’s repatriation program, after which they will be endorsed to an Overseas Workers Welfare Administration house parent, in coordination with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), to ensure their safety and their adherence to quarantine protocols. If the unaccompanied minor is not included in the repatriation program of the government, and arrived before January 8, they will be turned over to a DSWD officer who can ensure their safety and their observance of quarantine protocols. Accordingly, the Inter-Agency Task Force for Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) issued exemptions to the travel restrictions and quarantine and testing
protocols for arriving passengers from countries where the Philippines’ travel ban applies. Local/accredited foreign diplomats and international organizations like the World Health Organization and United Nations will be exempt from the quarantine protocols but they will need to take an RT-PCR test upon arrival in the airport, execute an undertaking, and observe 14-day quarantine. Foreign dignitaries are also exempt but would also need to observe testing and quarantine protocols. Those who travel for medical and emergency cases, including their medical escorts, are likewise exempt from the said travel restrictions, while those with highly exceptional and/ or medical reasons as evaluated by the Department of Health, will be exempt from the quarantine protocol. The IATF also ruled that individuals who have been vaccinated in other countries will still have to undergo mandatory testing and quarantine protocols upon arrival in the country. OPS-PCOO Caraga INFOCUS
PRESIDENTIAL ANTI-RED TAPE EMERGENCY POWERS SIGNED INTO LAW
President Rodrigo Duterte has signed into law Republic Act 11517, or an act authorizing the President to expedite the processing and issuance of national and local permits, licenses and certifications in times of national emergency. “This is such great news to start the year with,” said Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri, sponsor and one of the principal authors of the law. “We’re in this strange time right now, where things are starting to look up with the vaccine and all, but we’re also still Caraga INFOCUS
taking caution against this new strain of the virus from abroad. This law should help us efficiently navigate this strange time.” “We’re still effectively in an emergency, and our government processes should really be streamlined, so our people can receive essential services in a timely manner—everything from medical necessities to telecommunications services, the government should be able to process quickly and efficiently. ” “This is a partner law
to our EODB,” explained Zubiri, author of the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act. “If EODB mandates 3, 7, or 20 working days for processing depending on the application, this law should be able to whittle that down to an even shorter time, in response to the urgent demands in a national emergency.” “I’m so glad that the President has signed this into law, and I’m really hopeful that this will be instrumental in advancing our COVID-19 recovery efforts.” January 2-8, 2021 |
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INCREASE IN PHILHEALTH MEMBER CONTRIBUTIONS POSTPONED President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has deferred the implementation of the increase in the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) member contributions to ease the hardship of the people due to the coronavirus pandemic. “There is a move to increase the contribution ng mga members,” President Duterte said in a public address on Monday. “At this time of our life, may I just suggest to the PhilHealth chairman, si Dante Gierran at saka ‘yung si --- lahat na --- isang tao lang kailangan kong sabihan diyan. Huwag muna ngayon.” “No increase in contributions. I will look for the money to fill it up. Maghanap tayo ng pera. Anyway, that is the job of
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the government to make it easy for everybody at this time, I said, of our lives.” PhilHealth’s premium rate for its members was supposed to increase to 3.5 percent of their monthly basic salary, from 3 percent last year. A 0.5 yearly increase in members’ premium is mandated by the Universal Health Care Act starting this year until it reaches the 5-percent cap in 2025. M e a n w h i l e , President Duterte warned airport personnel to strictly implement government travel restrictions and protocols following reports of unauthorized travels. “There are reports that some people are skipping, na nakakalusot
sila with the help of airport personnel at sa mga barko. I say this now as I have said it before: Do not do it kasi mayayari talaga kayo,” he said in issuing the warming. “You do it by allowing unauthorized travel when all of us are really worried of containing the contamination, na i-control in and out. Almost every country now are controlling the entry and the departure of their citizens. Hindi lang tayo mga Pilipino.” The government is strictly carrying out mandatory 14-day quarantine to travelers arriving from countries with reported cases of a new COVID-19 variant, which experts say is more contagious than the regular variant. PND Caraga INFOCUS
PRESIDENT DUTERTE OFFERS COMPROMISE TO FIRECRACKER MANUFACTURERS President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Monday, January 4, offered a compromise to local firecracker manufacturers that he said will hold off the imposition of a complete national ban on firecracker use intended to protect public safety. “I’ll only allow firecrackers and everything to be done by government. And it would be the mayor himself and the chief of police who should do this,” President Duterte said in a public address. “Iyang fireworks sa community para makita ng mga tao with all the safe distances, lahat na, social distancing doon sa pulbura, sa putukan.” Mayors, with the help of the police, should see to it that all safety protocols are in place to prevent accidents, he noted, adding that he wants Filipinos to safely enjoy New Year celebrations and at the same time keep the livelihood of those engaged in fireworks and Caraga INFOCUS
firecracker manufacturing business. But the President also warned firecracker manufacturers that they should not sell their products to private individuals. “So kayong mga taga-Bocaue ganito, kung ang local governments para New Year lang, ipagbili na lang ninyo sa lahat ng local government units. Marami ‘yan, kikita kayo kasi bibili lahat. But sell it only to the police,” he said. “Wala na magpabili sa private ano. Gobyerno na lang at gobyerno lang ang puwedeng magpaputok. That is my... Para hindi kayo mawalaan ng hanapbuhay. You don’t lose the business,” he added. After President Duterte’s announcement for a nationwide ban on firecracker use, local officials and firecracker manufacturers from Bulacan called on the President to defer the implementation of the
prohibition, arguing producers still need to recoup their losses from weak sales as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. During this year’s holiday celebrations, Metro Manila mayors banned the sale and use of firecrackers as part of health protocol to reduce the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) during festivities. They also want to prevent firecrackerrelated injuries and even deaths during the New Year revelries. The Department of Health (DOH) has reported an 85-percent decrease in firework-related injuries this year. No firework ingestion or deaths were reported. This year, Davao City marked its 17th year of zero firecrackerrelated incident since the 2002 implementation of a firework ban in the President’s home city, according to data from the Davao City Police Office. PND January 2-8, 2021 |
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PH GOV’T TO LAUNCH INFO DRIVE; BOOST PUBLIC TRUST ON VACCINE
Philippine Information Agency Director-General Ramon Cualoping III (PNA photo by Joey O. Razon)
The Philippine government, through the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), vowed to increase engagement with the public and boost trust in vaccines, as the national vaccination program looms in the country. In a Laging Handa briefing Wednesday, PIA Director-General Ramon Cualoping III said the agency would launch an information drive together with the Department of Health and several government agencies to further raise awareness on the benefits of inoculation against Covid-19. This initiative will include a series of town hall meetings, regional Caraga INFOCUS
summits, local summits, and dialogue with healthcare workers, the private sector, and local government units. “Our objective is to continue and improve the public uptake, the acceptance level of the public to the vaccine regardless of brands,” he said. The University of the Philippines-OCTA Research Group earlier said only one in four or 25 percent of Metro Manila residents is willing to get vaccinated against coronavirus disease. The remaining 75 percent are either hesitant or unwilling. To date, the national government targets to inoculate 50 million to 70
million Filipinos within the year. National Task Force on Covid-19 chief implementer and vaccine czar Carlito Galvez Jr. said the government is negotiating with about 11 entities to secure enough doses of Covid-19 vaccines for the Philippines. Among these m a n u f a c t u r e r s and alliances are AstraZeneca, Novavax, Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson, Sinovac, Russia’s Gamaleya National Center, Moderna, Sinopharm, CanSino Biologics, Bharat Biotech, and the COVAX alliance with the World Health Organization. (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora/PNA) January 2-8, 2021 |
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STRINGENT SCREENING OF VACCINE CANDIDATES ASSURED By Lade Jean Kabagani
Coronavirus vaccine candidates undergo strict screening to ensure that they are safe, effective, and affordable, National Policy Against Covid-19 chief implementer and vaccine czar Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. assured on Wednesday.
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“Kaya po dapat mapanatag po ang ating mga mamamayan na talagang ang ating bibilhing mga vaccine ay safe, effective at saka affordable po (That’s why our people must be assured that we will buy Covid-19 vaccines that
are really safe, effective and also affordable),” Galvez said during a Laging Handa public briefing. He said all vaccine candidates in the country will undergo stringent regulation screening and should be accredited Caraga INFOCUS
by the World Health Organization (WHO). Galvez said tight regulations are also being imposed in the United States and the United Kingdom where they have regulatory bodies accredited by the WHO. In closing deals with vaccine developers from such countries, Galvez said a clause on graft and corruption should be specified in the contract of agreement. “Aside from our stringent regulatory sa ating FDA at saka (with our Food and Drug Administration and) panel of experts, mayroon din po silang mga expert na titingnan po talaga iyong tinatawag na global assessment ng mga vaccines na mga available (they also have their own experts to look after the global assessment of the available vaccines),” he said. Meanwhile, Dr. Socorro Escalante, WHO national professional officer, cited the key criteria to know whether a country is ready for vaccine deployment. Soccoro said the country must have a vaccine deployment Caraga INFOCUS
plan. “It’s very important to note that in the Philippines, the President has signed the Executive Order authorizing the FDA to grant Emergency Use Authorization for vaccines and also to rely on or to recognize assessment of these vaccines from other stringent regulatory authorities,” she said. “So that is a very important step that makes the country ready because the first filter for vaccines to be deployed in the country is about the regulatory process to ensure that all vaccines coming into the country are of safe, efficacious and of good quality,” she added. Soccoro said the country should prepare for cold chain logistics for the distribution of vaccines in the country. “But we note that the country has already existing cold chain equipment even in RITM and the government is ready to deploy the ultracold chain and in addition strengthen the cold chain of the country,” she said. The other key criteria are the safe monitoring of the vaccines, she said.
“So, all vaccines have the potential or the risk of having an adverse event or unexpected event after po na madeploy natin iyong (we deploy the) vaccine and it’s very important to have that monitoring process and the FDA and ating (our) EPI program is already working on the protocol to monitor the vaccine,” she added. Soccoro said 232 candidate vaccines are being developed worldwide. Of the number, 172 are now in their preclinical phase of trials, while 60 are currently in the clinical phase. There are 20 vaccines that are in Phase 1 of clinical trial, while the other 10 vaccines are in Phase 3. “And out of all these vaccines in the clinical trial phase, sampu na po ang nabigyan ng (some 10 vaccines were already given with) conditional approval or emergency use authorizations around the world at isa na po ang nabigyan ng emergency use listing ng WHO (and one of these was provided with WHO’s emergency use listing),” Soccoro said. (PNA) January 2-8, 2021 |
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