CONTENTS Caraga Infocus 8
25 - 31 January 2020
REGIONAL NEWS
8 10 11 13 14 15 17 CabSec Nograles to Caraganons: We are here for your needs Gang members avail of free ‘gangnam’ skills training
Various sectors tackle appropriate measures to curb insurgency in Caraga DICT provides more free wifi sites in Caraga P23M increase recorded in LTOCaraga’s revenue collection
Butuanon awarded as DSWD national best volunteer
POPCOM-Caraga accomplishments in 2019 assessed TESDA Caraga, stakeholders extend disaster relief for Taal evacuees
Volume IV, No. 05
PROVINCIAL NEWS
19 21 22 23 25 26 27 28 30 32 34 35
BFP, NGO conduct annual int’l training to Caraga firefighters P200M Siargao sports complex gym, dorm now completed DSWD Caraga commended for 2019 social pension achievement CTF-ELCAC launched in Surigao City village Surigao Norte PCDC elects new set of officers COMELEC holds PWD voting simulation San Luis – Binicalan road rehab, now 79% completed Agusan-Malaybalay road now 77% complete Bayugan City officials boost locals’ trust, confidence CabSec Nograles leads Peace Caravan in Bayugan Troops seize war materials after clash with CNTs in Tandag City CLOA beneficiaries in SurSur up in 2019
MINDANAO NEWS
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Students’ film of gratitude after Marawi war wins in JICA tilt MinDA, DENR donate ‘hot logs’ to quake-hit Davao Sur towns
NATIONAL NEWS
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New sin tax law to give Pinoys comfortable life: Andanar DOE keeps close eye on TRAIN Law implementation PRRD inaugurates DSWD’s Malasakit Building
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News Briefs By virtue of Republic Act 7901, otherwise known as An Act Creating Region XIII to be known as The Caraga Administrative Region, and for Other Purposes, Caraga Region was created on February 23, 1995. This year, the region will be commemorating its Silver Anniversary, which will be spearheaded by the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) Caraga.
President Rodrigo Duterte has signed into law a measure raising taxes on liquor, heated tobacco, and vapor products last January 22, 2020. The new law amends the National Internal Revenue Code of 1997 to effectively impose heavier levies on alcohol products and e-cigarettes. “I am confident that the multi-tiered effect of this law as a cost-effective health measure to reduce smoking and alcohol consumption among Filipinos support the UHC (Universal Health Care) Act,� Duterte said.
As of Jan. 28, 2020, the WHO has reported a total of 4,593 confirmed affected with 2019-nCoV globally. In China 4,537 confirmed; 6,973 suspected; 976 severe; & 106 deaths. Outside of China with 56 confirmed in 14 countries. Department of Health (DOH) Caraga Regional Director Dr. Jose Llacuna, Jr. said that those who are currently suffering from a respiratory illness and has a travel history from China will be monitored and screened first. The public is advised to follow the health tips recommended by the agency such as avoiding loitering in public places and wearing of the prescribed masks when going to crowded places.
CabSec Nograles to Caraganons: We are here for your needs By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales
B
UTUAN CITY -In the recent conduct of a Peace Caravan in Barangay Mt. Carmel, Bayugan, Agusan del Sur spearheaded by the members of the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTFELCAC) in Caraga, Cabinet Secretary Karlo Alexei B. Nograles, Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security (CORDS) Caraga, assured those who participated in the activity that the government is working their best to address their varying needs and concerns. 4
Caraga Infocus
January 25-31, 2020
During the short program, the Cabinet Secretary reiterated the significance of the activity which is to provide solutions to existing concerns in the community by means of rendering basic services and identifying other issues in order for the local government to provide relevant interventions efficiently. The Peace Caravan, he said, is not the end of our service to the people but rather the beginning of the many services that the government is willing to provide. Merla P. Ahad, barangay captain of Mt. Carmel, was given the chance to present the main issues faced by their community, putting emphasis on the need for a construction of a local access road from their area and even in neighboring communities to the highway. “Through the provision of such infrastructure, not only will it provide convenience to the daily routine of our people but will also drastically improve their livelihood as it will firstly
January 25-31, 2020
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your growth. The Caraganons have been craving for sustainable progress for a long time and now is the perfect opportunity to give them what they truly deserve,” CabSec Nograles added. He also underscored the activity’s correlation to the whole mandate of the Executive Order No. 70 or the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTFELCAC), which served as a bridge between the government and its people. Through the people’s continuous support and cooperation of the said directive of help lessen the costs for transportation President Rodrigo Duterte, sustainable progress will be made possible. of goods to the city proper,” she said. The Peace Caravan conducted was able to render various basic services to over 1,500 residents in Mt. Carmel and in neighboring communities such as free health consultation accompanied by free medicines, dental services, grooming services such as haircut, and services specifically made for senior “The government will never citizens and pregnant women. (PIAdeprive you of chances to maximize Caraga) In response, he promised to take action on the matter within the year or the following year. However, he reminded the residents of Mt. Carmel that the government follows a certain process and asked to extend their patience.
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January 25-31, 2020
REGIONAL NEWS
Regional News
Gang members avail of free ‘gangnam’ skills training By Venus L. Garcia
BUTUAN CITY - More than 40 individuals who are former members of street gangs have benefitted from the free training courses granted by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Caraga under the project “Gangnam” (NagkahiusAMi) or “gang na mabuti” of the Butuan City Police Station (BCPO). Twenty-four of them who were previously involved in an all-out brawl and riots have already completed the training and were issued with the Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAC) National Certificate (NC) I at II after passing the assessment for the first
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batch. Another group of 21 adolescents who composed the second batch are also currently capacitating themselves with the skills in an ongoing TESDA training.
January 25-31, 2020
Regional News Some have also availed of the automotive servicing and driving courses as additional skills and option in seeking a job.
“Through the project Gangnam, I was guided to change my life for good. Now, I will work hard to achieve my dreams and to convince all other gang members to leave their group and start According to Colonel Canilo a more meaningful life,” said Quiamjot. Fuentes, city director of the BCPO, the project Gangnam was penned to Col. Fuentes said the project address the problems on criminality Gangnam is a proactive approach and gang violence in the communities. undertaken by their office and partner stakeholders to keep the gang “This is one of the best practices members away from commission of of the BCPO in solving the problem on crimes and to provide them guidance gangsterism. We invited and talked to in their endeavor of transforming into the gang leaders and members and law-abiding citizens. offered the opportunities to save them from being hooked to gang-related Per record of the BCPO, there are activities. They were honed with the 22 gangs and more or less 262 profiled skills in welding for free through a members which means that there are memorandum of agreement (MOA) hundreds more that have yet to be between our office, the BCPO, and profiled on the basis that these profiles TESDA,” said Col. Fuentes. were gathered through the members being detained and arrested. Jason Cabal, who started to join the gang in his 20’s, was filled with Accordingly, the members are gratitude for the significant intervention composed of out-of-school youth, of the BCPO that has helped a lot in his hardened law offenders, and the most lifestyle transformation. alarming are the minor members who were involved in the commission of “I’m very glad and thankful for crimes. this initiative of the PNP, especially the BCPO, because it has truly awakened It can be recalled that the project me to quit from involving in gang Gangnam was a brainchild of then culture. Now, I am more determined to city director PSSupt Albert G. Magno do my job well to support my family,” in which a Gangnam core group was emphasized Cabal. created and conducted an immersion activity to engage with the gang Aside from receiving a regular members. net pay as an inventory clerk after undergoing the free trainings, Hanney Other partner stakeholders have Lou Quiamjot is now also earning an also continues pouring out their support, extra income from doing welding making the projects sustain its impact. works. (VLG/PIA-Caraga) January 25-31, 2020
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Regional News
Various sectors tackle appropriate measures to curb insurgency in Caraga By Jennifer P. Gaitano
BUTUAN CITY - The regional and national government agencies, together with various sectors in the Caraga region and nongovernment organizations (NGOs), have convened recently in a forum and discussed the issues and concerns confronting the region, as well as the means and ways to address it. This activity formed part of the implementation of Executive Order No. 70 or the whole-of-nation approach in resolving the different pressing issues in the communities, including the local communist armed conflict.
According to Joel Dizon, program manager of a non-government organization known as Equal Access International, there is a need to establish a messaging hub in the region, as this will serve as a platform for all the partner stakeholders in information Terrorism and violent extremism sharing online; during radio programs were the two main issues identified by and publications; and all other useful the group during the forum. activities that will help increase the level
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January 25-31, 2020
Regional News of awareness of the people on various of the youth in the government’s issues and concerns, particularly in initiatives would have great impact to curbing terrorism and violent extremism. the development of the youth sector and the communities they live in. “We believe that the Messaging Hub would serve as a platform for all Meanwhile, Erwin Mascariñas, a the involved stakeholders, where they journalist and Caraga correspondent could gather, raise, and discuss the of Philippine Daily Inquirer and Union of issues and concerns, and be able to Catholic Asian News, emphasized the contribute in making solutions,” said roles and responsibilities of the media Dizon. practitioners as influencers and active agents of change. The youth also plays a vital role in this effort to solve the insurgency He also elaborated that the media problem in the region. Raxiey Adolfo, should present their news stories in such executive director of Surigao Youth a way that it would not cause further Convergence underlined that the conflict or confusion to the populace. active involvement and participation (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
DICT provides more free wifi sites in Caraga
By Jennifer P. Gaitano
BUTUAN CITY - Thousands of Caraganons are benefiting of the free WiFi access under the Free Wifi For All Project of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) in Caraga region.
Based on the data of DICT, in 2019, there are some 105 free WiFi sites already installed and this will be increased, as the installation is ongoing to ensure free wifi connection in public places.
For Butuan City, there are 84 sites installed with free WiFi connection, including other parts of Agusan del Norte. Four sites in Agusan del Sur, 13
in Surigao del Norte and four in Surigao del Sur. As one of the recipients of the said project, Mayor Judy Amante of Cabadbaran City was grateful as government employees were given the best opportunity for internet connectivity to communicate with stakeholders and for faster and improved services through online transactions.
January 25-31, 2020
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Regional News
“This is really a good project of the government, and this is what I really wanted to see that people are enjoying the free WiFi access and they’re able to connect with their family or even for students in their researches, and workers in their daily reports,” cited Amante.
have more than 200 free WiFi services. Engr. Lawrence Salang, provincial officer of DICT-Agusan del Norte also stressed that the agency was giving due attention to the installation of free WiFi for the provinces of Siargao Island and Dinagat Islands.
Abril Romano, a Cabadbaranon also expressed her gratitude to the Meanwhile, Agusan del Norte government for providing them the Governor Dale Corvera reminded free WiFi internet connection. all the end-users to use the free WiFi responsibly and to maximize its use in a “I’m thankful that sending reports more appropriate manner. in our office is made easier because of the aid of this free WiFi access. We are The free WiFi connection available also on track of the different issues and in public venues can be a solution for news that we are able to see online,” people who could not afford home said Romano. broadband connections. It also promotes empowerment of every According to Director Evamay Filipino by having access to online Dela Rosa of DICT Mindanao Cluster 2, information and other digital platforms. the province of Agusan del Norte will (JPG/VLG/NCLM, PIA-Caraga)
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January 25-31, 2020
Regional News
P23M increase recorded in LTO-Caraga’s revenue collection By Jennifer P. Gaitano
BUTUAN CITY - With the strengthened effort and campaign of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) Caraga in the different municipalities and provinces of the region, its revenue collection from January to November 2019 has increased to more than P23-million.
According to Director Nordy to 5,884 operations in year 2018. Plaza, from the collection revenue of more than P376-million in 2018, it has “We continue to intensify our programs increased to P399 million in 2019. and advocacy to ensure the welfare and safety of our motorists,” cited Plaza added that in 2019, there is Maglines. a total registration of 286,580 in motor vehicles and have issued 190,695 Meanwhile, Director Plaza is licenses. optimistic that this figure would still increase considering that the agency Urbano Maglines, Jr., the Land is continuing its effort to further establish Transportation Office (LTO)-Caraga its law enforcement operations and focal person for road safety believed that the law enforcement operations of sternly reminding all vehicle owners the agency have greatly contributed and drivers to renew their expired to the increase of collection reaching registrations and licenses. (JPG/NCLM, to 7,411, which was higher compared PIA-Caraga) January 25-31, 2020
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Regional News
Butuanon awarded as DSWD national best volunteer
BUTUAN CITY - The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) awarded Lea Rebuta of Butuan City with the National Best Volunteer Award during the Pagkilala sa Natatanging Kontribusyon sa Bayan (PaNata Ko sa Bayan) Awards at the DSWD Central Offcie, Batasan Complex, Quezon City. Lea Rebuta, a resident of Taguibo, Butuan City, is a 4Ps parent leadervolunteer who dedicated nine years serving the 32 Pantawid members in her barangay. As inscribed in the program’s operation manual, a parent-leader is a point person, program beneficiary, and volunteer leader in a group of 2530 household grantees.
(GAPAS). Various awards are presented to the stakeholders who have contributed to the realization of the shared vision of empowering individuals, families, and communities.
One of the awards is the Salamat Po Award, a commendation of volunteers “Pasalamat kaayo ko sa DSWD who have provided assistance in the sa opurtunidad nga gihatag sa ako. Department’s delivery of services. Nahimo og wide scope ang akong pagserbisyo sa katawhan ug dili ko Rebuta was accompanied by mahimong awardee kung wala ang her husband, Antonio, and Field Office Ahensya nagsuporta nako (I am elated Caraga Pantawid Pamilya Regional and thankful for the opportunity that Program coordinator Crislea Celeste. DSWD has given me. I was able to serve the community in a wider scope and I The recognition of the invaluable would not be an awardee if not for the support of partner stakeholders is done support of the agency),” Rebuta said. every anniversary celebration of DSWD. This year’s 69th anniversary goes with The PaNata Ko sa Bayan Awards the theme, “Social Integration: DSWD’s is a spin-off from the Memorandum Major Thrust in Line with Philippine Circular No. 1 series of 2000 or the Development Plan 2017-2022.” (DSWDGawad Paglilingkod sa Sambayanan Caraga/PIA-Caraga)
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January 25-31, 2020
Regional News
POPCOM-Caraga accomplishments in 2019 assessed By May Ann O. Escobal
BUTUAN CITY - The validating team of the Commission on Population and Development (POPCOM) headed by the Deputy Executive Director Lolito R. Tacardon expressed satisfaction on the performance as contributions of POPCOM Caraga in carrying out the strategic thrusts of the Philippine Population Management Program (PPMP). POPCOM Caraga once again overwhelmed with the positive upshots of the validation for its program accomplishments in 2019, as conducted on Thursday, January 23, by the team from POPCOM Central Office composed of eight select POPCOM senior officials, headed by DED Tacardon.
Tacardon and his team recognized the initiatives and intensive efforts of POPCOM Caraga headed by Director Alexander A. Makinano, along with its regional and local program partners that has tremendously strengthened the implementation of the PPMP, as well as the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health (RPRH) Law in
January 25-31, 2020
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Regional News
the different communities in the region, after having validated the agency’s outputs of its Organization Performance Commitment and Review (OPCR) targets in 2019 for the four major program components of the PPMP, namely: Responsible Parenthood and Family Planning (RPFP), Adolescent Health and Development (AHD), Population and Development (POPDEV) Integration, and Special Population Group (SPG). The team was tasked to validate all reported accomplishments of regional offices and divisions of POPCOM. On their part, Dir. Makinano echoed gratitude to all its program partners from the local government units, regional line agencies, particularly the Regional Development Council
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(RDC) through the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) and the Department of Health (DOH). The media, academe, faithbased organizations and stakeholders from various sectors in the community worked as well with the agency in accomplishing all its targets, as pointedout by Director Makinano. In pursuit of better quality of life for every Filipino family, POPCOM Caraga aims to achieve more in 2020 and beyond by continuously intensifying its localized implementation of various interventions, as strategies in attaining the objectives of the PPMP, gearing towards a “Matatag, Maginhawa, at Planadong Pamilyang Pilipino.” (POPCOM-13/PIA-Caraga)
January 25-31, 2020
Regional News
TESDA Caraga, stakeholders extend disaster relief for Taal evacuees BUTUAN CITY - With the recent Taal volcano eruption, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Caraga has extended their assistance to the victims, as well as other regional offices in the different parts of the country. TESDA Secretary Isidro Lapeña has issued directives for regional and provincial offices and other operating units to provide necessities such as face masks, water, canned food, and other items that the agency can donate. TESDA Region V (Bicol Region) immediately launched the ‘Operation Tabang’ with the help of the Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) scholars and professionals, and other TESDA Technology Institutions (TTIs).
cater evacuees of the said calamity. In addition, TESDA Region III (Central Luzon) relayed 7.5 sacks of rice and other goods to TESDA Region IV-A (CALABARZON) of which were distributed in Cavite.
Donations from the Central Office were forwarded to the provincial offices in TESDA Batangas and Cavite. TESDA National Capital Region has also prepared clothes donations, boxes of facial masks, hygiene kits, water bottles As such, TESDA Caraga was able and canned goods for the Taal evacuees. to donate one box of face masks and 11 boxes of food products from various Apart from goods, other regional training centers in the region. offices offered to provide financial assistance. TESDA Caraga Regional Other agencies were able to Office and its province offices in donate other goods through the training- Dinagat Islands and Surigao del Sur, cum-production scheme implemented by TESDA Region IV-B (MIMAROPA), Region the TTIs. The trainees of dressmaking and X (Northern Mindanao), and Region food production were able to produce XII (SOCCSKSARGEN) pooled such face masks and perishable goods in large donations as relief efforts. quantities. Other institutions also took part TESDA Region II (Cagayan Valley), in the delivery of relief operations and TESDA Bicol Region (Region V), and even donated goods to the agency. The the local government unit (LGU), Juban Sorsogon National Agricultural School Training Center had a mass-produced and the San Francisco Institute of Science biscuits, cookies, and face masks which and Technology were able to render were then transported to the regional 6,900 face masks. (TESDA-Caraga/PIAoffices of TESDA located in areas that Caraga) January 25-31, 2020
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PROVINCIAL NEWS
Provincial News
BFP, NGO conduct annual int’l training to Caraga firefighters By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales
SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte - In line with their mission to improve the disaster response in the region, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Caraga conducted a five-day international training camp beginning on January 20 at the Cabadbaran City Hall in Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte. The said training is in partnership with the Firefighters for Christ (FFC) International, a non-profit organization that promotes better fire service by nurturing the personnel’s spiritual growth.
The 170 participants from the different provinces and disaster response agencies in the region were trained in forest firefighting, vehicle extrication, and swift water rescue by the thirteen FFC personnel with international-level training and experience.
January 25-31, 2020
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Provincial News
Apart from the training, the by strengthening their faith. organization will be donating equipment to the involved disaster “With the many stressors response agencies. faced by our fire service personnel, maintaining one’s faith especially “Our primary objective here is during operations is deemed as an to help the fire service personnel in effective way to not only muddle the Philippines improve the quality of through their obligations but also service they give to the public whilst better their service to the public,” he sharing the word of God,” said Joel added. Lindaman, head of the FFC Training Team. The FFC International has been in partnership with the fire response For BFP Caraga Regional agencies since 2013, after Typhoon Director FSSupt. Romel Tradio, the Yolanda struck Tacloban City in Leyte. participants will greatly benefit from Through their continued partnership, the activity for not only will it broaden the Philippines is now recognized their knowledge in fire response, the as home to the largest fire service training will also help them cope with chapter in the world. (DMNR/VLG/ their duties as fire service personnel PIA-Surigao del Norte)
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January 25-31, 2020
Provincial News
P200M Siargao sports complex gym, dorm now completed SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte - In time for a major sporting event to be hosted in Siargao Island this year, the sports complex gymnasium as well as the two-unit dorm constructed by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) - Surigao del Norte 1st District Engineering Office (DEO) in Siargao Island are now complete and ready for public use.
The sports complex includes two courts, one for basketball event, equipped with a basketball backboard made of fiberglass, the other for badminton and volleyball with rubberized flooring. The entire building is fully air-conditioned with a unique ventilating system for the more than 300 spectators.
to P50 million. The facilities are also useful in hosting sports events such as the Regional Meet in their island.
This is expected to boost tourism in the area, in addition to the island being the regular host of other international sports events such as surfing competitions The construction of the sports and the annual International Game complex gymnasium amounted to Fishing Tournament. (DPWH-Caraga/ P150 million while the dorm amounted PIA-Caraga) January 25-31, 2020
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Provincial News
DSWD Caraga commended for 2019 social pension achievement SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte - The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Central Office commended DSWD Field Office (FO) Caraga for being the only field office in the country to serve 100 percent of its target beneficiaries for Social Pension Program for Indigent Senior Citizens in 2019. DSWD FO Caraga received the commendation on January 17, 2020 during the consultation dialogue for the Supplementary Feeding Program and Social Pension Program at the DSWD Central Office in Quezon City.
staff, specifically the Social Pension Program Management Office, in serving indigent senior citizens in the region.
Echavaria added that the commendation is a motivation for the Social Pension Program focal team to work even harder to reach its person Juvy P. Echavaria received 170,000 target beneficiaries in 2020. the commendation on behalf of the FO personnel. Echavaria shared For 2019, DSWD Caraga was that she is very much elated with the able to serve 143,774 Social Pension commendation, saying that such beneficiaries amounting to P840 million achievement is a result of the untiring in all 73 local government units in the commitment of the management and region.
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January 25-31, 2020
Provincial News A total of 29,176 beneficiaries were served in Agusan del Norte province; 35,324 in Agusan del Sur; 10,715 in Dinagat Islands; 30,468 in Surigao del Norte; and 38,091 in Surigao del Sur.
This is in line with the fulfillment of the government’s obligation to the most vulnerable sector through social protection, and for the full implementation of Republic Act 9994 or the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of A series of payouts were 2010. conducted so that beneficiaries could claim their P3,000 stipend semesterly Eligible for the program are senior grants. A total of P6,000 was enjoyed citizens who are 60 years old and by the beneficiaries for 2019. above; frail, sickly or with disability; no pension from government agencies The Social Pension program or any other insurance company; no provides P500 grant to qualified indigent permanent source of income; and no senior citizens as augmentation for their regular support from their family for their daily subsistence and other medical basic needs. (DSWD Caraga/VLG/PIAneeds. Surigao del Norte)
CTF-ELCAC launched in Surigao City village
By Susil D. Ragas
SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte - After the fall of Guerilla Front (GF) 16B due to the mass surrender of key leaders and supporters, the city government of Surigao launched the City Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (CTF-ELCAC) on January 22, 2020 at Sitio Brazil, Barangay Mat-i, this city. January 25-31, 2020
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Provincial News Sitio Brazil was formerly known as Government of Mat-I, national line the Communist New People’s Army agencies, Surigao City Police Office, Terrorist (CNT) stronghold. and the 30th IB. It can be recalled that GF16B, which is led by Pablo Alcansar Logatiman aka Lukas, a native of Sitio Tugunan, Mabini, Surigao City, celebrated the CPP anniversary in the said area on December 2016. The relentless efforts of Team Surigao del Note led by the provincial government, municipal and barangay level local government units, regional line agencies, civil society organizations, 30th Infantry (Python) Battalion and the whole police force in the province led by the Provincial Police Office, key leaders of GF16B like Commander RD and Commander NO NAME, and their Political Officer alias Wella, surrendered last year.
The activity was highlighted with the ceremonial turn-over of livelihood assistance (Cattle Dispersal) to five beneficiaries, distribution of hygiene kits to 120 households from Surigao Metropolitan Water District-Prime Waters and distribution of seedlings. After the launching program, a “Serbisyo Caravan” immediately commenced providing basic services to the residents.
Said services included dental and medical services, free haircut, supplemental feeding, distribution of slippers and “Lice Alis” packs to the pupils of Lope R. Ruiz Memorial Elementary School, vaccination and deworming, issuance of appointment Their surrender further led to the schedules for the filing of NBI surrender of other NPA regulars as well clearance, and the extension of free as members of the underground mass legal consultation/services. organizations of GF16B. In his message, Mayor Matugas To sustain these gains, expressed his utmost gratitude to the Team Surigao del Norte further partner stakeholders who supported institutionalized its whole-of-nation the CTF-ELCAC launching. convergence through the launching of the Task Force ELCAC of Surigao “Everyone desires for peace, City at Sitio Brazil, Mat-i. let us support the EO 70 or Wholeof-Nation Approach of our beloved This simple but very symbolic President Rodrigo Roa Duterte for event was led by City Mayor Ernesto his action to End Local Communist “Estong” Matugas Jr, together with the Armed Conflict in Surigao City,” Mayor Surigao City Council, Barangay Local Matugas said.
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January 25-31, 2020
Provincial News Meanwhile, 30IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Jeffrey A. Villarosa congratulated the Team Surigao City for bringing government services to Sitio Brazil, a Conflict-Affected Area (ConAA).
to be active participants towards their efforts to attain peace and development to their community and insulate their children, their families and their community from the deception and lies of the NPAs.
He said the Python Troopers will always be an active partner of Team Surigao City, Team Surigao del Norte, and the peace-loving residents of Sitio Brazil, the most important member of the team.
CTF-ELCAC was institutionalized during the joint City Development Council (CDC) and City Peace and Order Council (CPOC) meeting through the approved joint Resolution No.4, s. 2019 dated September 16, 2019. (30IB, Philippine Army/PIAVillarosa enjoined the residents Surigao del Norte)
Surigao Norte PCDC elects new set of officers By Susil D. Ragas
SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte - Surigao del Norte Second District Board Member Melva P. Garcia was unanimously re-elected as the chairperson of the Provincial Cooperative Development Council (PCDC) of Surigao del Norte. Board member Garcia was reelected during the first PCDC meeting on January 17, 2020, held at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Conference Room, this city. Other elected PCDC Officers were Rebecca Bagnol (Surigao del Norte Provincial Development Officer as vice chairman; Ma. Teresa Calang from the Department of Trade and Industry as secretary; Charlito Arquion, Manager of Land Bank Surigao City as
treasurer; and Felibeth Bonono from the Department of Labor and Employment as auditor. Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) Caraga Region Legal Officer IV Atty. Ruel S. Halanes was also present during the meeting and presented some updates from the CDA, which included the Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2019-01 -- a Joint Memorandum Circular between CDA and the Department of Interior
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Provincial News and Local Government (DILG) on Cooperative Promotion, Organization and Development in Local Government Units signed and issued on January 21, 2019.
and organization of the CDA.
Meanwhile, the newly elected officers of the PCDC immediately had their planning meeting for the upcoming activities, plans, and programs of the Atty. Halanes also discussed the council. (Sangguniang Panlalawiganroles, mandates, responsibilities, powers Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del and functions, composition, structure, Norte)
COMELEC holds PWD voting simulation By Nora C. Lanuza
BUTUAN CITY - With the aim to create an electoral structure that is responsive to the needs and situation of the most vulnerable in our community - the persons with disability (PWDs), the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) through the offices of the Provincial Election Supervisor of Agusan del Norte and City Election Officer of Butuan City conducted voting simulation for PWDs at Libertad National High School, here.
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January 25-31, 2020
Provincial News “This is part of agency’s interventions to help our PWDs during elections,” said COMELEC Caraga regional director Atty. Francisco Pobe. It is one of the actions of the agency to teach them how to vote and also to get their sentiments to further improve our election system, Pobe added.
Also, COMELEC Commissioner Atty. Al Parreño said it is one way to assess the situation of PWDs, the election process, the system and the equipment used in voting. Based on the observations, the COMELEC will then facilitate a voting system that will suit to their needs.
Among those who joined the voting simulation is Steven Arcinal, he was thankful for teaching them how to vote properly and correctly during elections.
Meanwhile, during the voting simulation held at the Libertad National High School in Butuan City, the COMELEC office also caters registration of voters for PWDs and youths who were not yet registered.
Arcinal is also hopeful that the government will also help them (PWDs) on their other needs and that they can also get a job despite their physical conditions.
Saide endeavor is part of the constant effort of the COMELEC in promoting inclusive participation in exercising the right to suffrage. (NCL, PIA Agusan del Norte)
San Luis – Binicalan road rehab, now 79% completed AGUSAN DEL SUR Despite the challenges brought by unfavorable weather conditions, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has now accomplished 79 percent of the 8.24-kilometer San Luis-Binicalan Road in Agusan del Sur rehabilitation project. January 25-31, 2020
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Provincial News The P147.75 million worth of project which is currently on its 4th phase of implementation is under the Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) Program which aims to provide ease of access for conflict-stricken communities in Caraga.
Caraga Regional Director Pol M. Delos Santos. He also assured that projects under the supervision of the regional office strictly conform to the standards and policies of the Department for quality and on-schedule delivery.
Funded under the CY 2018, the project started in October 2018 and is The road rehabilitation of San Luisexpected to be completed on March Binicalan Road is one of the five ongoing 2020. projects under CY 2018 PAMANA projects identified by the Office of “The constructed road traversing the Presidential Adviser on the Peace the area leading to Barangay Process (OPAPP) and implemented in Binicalan has already brought so many various parts of the Caraga Region, advantages for the locals. We are glad particularly in remote areas of Agusan that they will soon utilize a wider and del Sur and Surigao del Sur. (DPWH-13/ improved access road,� said DPWH JPG/PIA-Agusan del Sur)
Agusan-Malaybalay road now 77% complete By Jennifer P. Gaitano
BUTUAN CITY - The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Caraga is undergoing road construction projects, which will contribute to a faster and more convenient travel and delivery of local products in the different parts of the region and in Mindanao. Among these projects include the Agusan-Malaybalay Road worth 1.1-billion pesos which is already 77.62 percent complete as of December 2019.
in Esperanza, Agusan del Sur were delighted and eager to benefit more from the Agusan-Malaybalay Road. It helps them deliver their products easily to the market.
The construction has started in Rosie Echinique, a resident from the year 2015 and is expected to be Esperanza, was emotional in expressing completed this year 2020. her appreciation to the government. She hoped that this kind of project With this development, the locals would benefit more locals and improve
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Provincial News
their way of living. She also stressed that for almost three decades living in the area, it was only this administration that she experienced to have wellconstructed roads.
bared that due to the recent earthquakes recorded in some parts of Mindanao, the department has been continuously conducting inspection to various infrastructures in the region, which include the Magsaysay Bridge in “We have seen and felt the Butuan City that was opened to public concern of the government for us since May 19, 1953. and we have high hopes that more Mindanaoans would be able to benefit According to Director Delos and experience an improved quality of Santos, the Magsaysay Bridge is still in life,� said Echinique. good condition and was not affected by the series of quakes experienced Meanwhile, DPWH-Caraga in Mindanao. (JPG/NCLM, PIA-Agusan regional director Pol Delos Santos del Sur) January 25-31, 2020
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Provincial News
Bayugan City officials boost locals’ trust, confidence By Jennifer P. Gaitano
BUTUAN CITY - In time with the conduct of Peace Caravan in Barangay Mt. Carmel, Bayugan City, various government agencies that are members of the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTFELCAC) Caraga have capacitated the local residents through the different programs and services and left them as well-informed citizens with high trust and confidence to the government. Around 1,500 local residents in Mt. Carmel, including those in nearby barangays have greatly benefited from the Peace Caravan of the Task Force and Bayugan On-Wheels by the city government.
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Living in a remote yet peaceful community, Angeline Bada, 23 years old from the Manobo tribe of Mt. Carmel, brought her kids in the Peace Caravan and maximized the availment of the free services from various government agencies. She said, every time they are
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Provincial News informed on the government’s visit in their place for such activity, they always prepare for it and convene early in the venue. “We believe that the government wants our lives to improve and lets us experience a peaceful life in our respective community. Our tribe has higher trust and confidence to the government, as they never cease to help us in any means and secure our safety from possible harm,” shared Bada. Bayugan City Mayor Kirk Asis, emphasized that the government continues to address varying issues and concerns of the locals to uplift their living conditions. “We are doing our best to serve the people of Bayugan which is why we made sure that the line agencies and even the members of the three branches of the government were present during the Serbisyo Caravan in order to address their varying reiterated that with the intensified efforts of the government in reaching out to concerns,” said Asis. the people in all barangays, the terrorist Provincial Governor Santiago New People’s Army will no longer have Cane, Jr., also urged all the local chief a place in the communities. executives to work more and do better “This kind of effort we are as public servants. “We, the personnel working for the government of Agusan extending serves as a reminder del Sur, will always stand by the principle that contrary to the beliefs instilled that those who have less in life shall by the CNTs on the government’s abandonment of its responsibilities to have more in public service,” he said. the Filipinos, the government does care Meanwhile, being the cabinet for its people and that it is making sure officer for regional development and that your welfare is being taken care security (CORDS) Caraga, Cabinet of,” underscored Nograles. (JPG/PIASecretary Karlo Alexie Nograles, Agusan del Sur) January 25-31, 2020
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Provincial News
CabSec Nograles leads Peace Caravan in Bayugan
BUTUAN CITY - In line with the campaign for an inclusive and sustainable peace in the region, the Caraga Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) held a Peace Caravan in Mt Carmel, Bayugan City on January 23. The caravan, which was a prelude to the 4th Caraga RTF-ELCAC Meeting, was led by Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security (CORDS) Cabinet Secretary Karlo Alexei B. Nograles together with Surigao del Sur
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Governor and Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) Chairperson Alexander T. Pimentel, Agusan del Sur Governor Santiago B. Cane, Jr., Bayugan City Mayor Kirk A. Asis and other members of the task force.
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Provincial News
The Peace Caravan is a government initiative that aims to bring public services closer to the people residing in geographicallyisolated and conflict-affected areas. The Caravan is under the “access” phase of the Retooled Community Support Program, a convergence strategy in employing the whole of nation approach in ending insurgency in which government gaps and needed development interventions are identified in the priority barangays.
need for a local access road in their barangay which will allow connectivity to the neighboring communities. In response, CabSec Nograles asurred the barangay of the full support of President Duterte in their predicament.
“Rest assured that the President and the members of the Cabinet will deliver our promise to better your lives by addressing the issues presented. If not this year, then up until the end of A similar caravan was previously President Duterte’s term.” conducted in Brgy. Maitom, Tandag City, Surigao del Sur prior to the 3rd RTF- Residents in the barangay and ELCAC Mmeting held in the same city. nearby communities were able to avail basic services from various government The activity also provided an agencies and the local government of opportunity for the residents to voice Bayugan such as dental and medical out their concerns. During the opening examination, prenatal consultation, program, Punong Barangay Merla medicines, and grooming services. P. Ajan was able to raise the urgent (DILG13/PIA-Caraga) January 25-31, 2020
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Troops seize war materials after clash with CNTs in Tandag City TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur - Military troopers seized firearms and ammunition after they engaged in a firefight with the members of the Communist New Peoples Army Terrorists (CNTs) on Thursday, January 30, 2020.
According to 36IB Civil-Military Operations Officer Lt. Jonald Romorosa, the incident happened around 12:30pm in Kapatagan, Palo 8, part of Barangay Buenavista in Tandag City when the troops of Charlie Company under 36th Infantry Battalion were conducting combat operation in response to the reports they received regarding the presence of CNT. As a result, the operating troops encountered about 15 fully armed CNTs.
Col Jezreel Diagmel, the support they gain from the communities under their area of responsibility continues to grow in ending the local communist armed conflict. The official also expressed the army’s commitment to Surigaonons.
“It is my commitment to respond to the call of the peace-loving people of Surigao del Sur to preserve the peace and security in the province. We will never stop until communities and populace will experience the peace The firefight lasted for 15 minutes. and progress that they are longing for,” The CNTs then scampered to different Lt. Colonel Diagmel said. directions, leaving some war materials and firearms. No casualties were Lt. Diagmel also called on the reported on the government side while remaining CNT members to lay down bloodstains were found at the escape their arms and return to the folds route of the rebels. of the law, and avail the Enhance Comprehensive and Local Integration Authorities recovered from the Program (E-CLIP) of the government. site one M16 rifle, one Garand rifle, live ammunition, landmines components “You have still a chance and live in and personal belongings. peace together with your family,” Lt Col Diagmel said. (with a report from According to 36IB Commander Lt. 36IB/PIA Surigao del Sur)
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Provincial News
CLOA beneficiaries in SurSur up in 2019 By Jennifer P. Gaitano
BUTUAN CITY - The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in Surigao del Sur has accomplished beyond the 100 percent target of their land tenure services in the year 2019. According to provincial agrarian reform officer (PARO) Leoncio Bautista, they have reached the 130 percent accomplishment in its program, and 120 percent in program beneficiaries development, which was also beyond their target of 100 percent in 2019.
with 176.21 area in the whole province.
Based on the data from the agency’s Land Tenure Improvement Division, they have released and distributed some 227 certificates of land ownership award (CLOA) to the farmers of Surigao del Sur in 2019 which has 277.54 hectares of land or 214 percent from their targeted 98 CLOAs
PARO Bautista emphasized that cooperation, dedication and commitment of the employees of DAR have greatly contributed to attaining these accomplishments of the department and even reaching it beyond the target in 2019. (JPG/NGPB, PIA-Caraga)
Apart from this, they have also complied with the survey of new lands that reached to 308.23 hectares or 136 percent, higher from their target of 226.82 hectares.
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MINDANAO NEWS
Mindanao News
Students’ film of gratitude after Marawi war wins in JICA tilt By Christine Cudis
MANILA - Two students from Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) were named winners of the Japan International Cooperation Agency’s (JICA) first nationwide video blog contest for students and young professionals in the country. Both twenty-year-olds Shannefamel Almazan and Prince Loyd Besorio weaved a story on their experience from the 2017 Marawi conflict.
They also shared how the Japanese government’s support in the rehabilitation and reconstruction of Lanao del Sur’s capital as well as its surrounding areas
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Mindanao News brought hope to people who were infrastructure, disaster management, residents of the war-torn area. agriculture, and peace and development, earned a trip to Japan this year where The three-minute video titled “The they will have the chance to visit the JICA answer to my senbazuru”, the Japanese headquarters in Tokyo. belief of granting someone’s wish, talked about the effect of the armed conflict They will also experience Japan’s and their wish for peace and solidarity in culture and tour several important sites Marawi. in the country including the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. “The projects of JICA made me realize that people you don’t even The contest is supported by All know are willing to help. As a Filipino, the Nippon Airways Co. Ltd. (ANA), Business rehabilitation help from other countries is Mirror, BusinessWorld SparkUp, Japan a call for us to unite and strengthen the Foundation, and Japan National Tourism spirit of Bayanihan (collective help) and Organization. our role as peacemakers in our country,” Almazan said in the video. “All the entries from young Filipino video bloggers were very inspiring and In a statement on Thursday, JICA offered a fresh perspective on the bilateral Philippines Chief Representative Wada relations between our countries. JICA Yoshio said the video blog contest was “an looks forward to giving young people opportunity to listen to the voices of young more platforms to share their ideas and people on international cooperation and experiences,” Wada added. for nations to collaborate together in solving common problems”. Aside from the video blog contest, JICA has been supporting human The Japanese agency is currently resource development in the Philippines supporting a road network development training young Filipino professionals from project in conflict-affected Areas in government and promoting people-toMindanao that includes the construction people exchange with the dispatch of and rehabilitation of the Marawi City Ring young Japanese professionals to support Road, among others, in support of the Philippine development. region’s economic development and peacebuilding. The winning entry can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/ Marawi City was once a thriving watch?v=8y00bfs_mPo&feature=youtu. trading hub until the armed conflict razed be. the city in 2017. The videos submitted for the Almazan and Besorio, who bested competition will be uploaded on the JICA other entries that raised issues on transport Philippines website by next week. (PNA)
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Mindanao News
MinDA, DENR donate ‘hot logs’ to quake-hit Davao Sur towns By Che Palicte
DAVAO CITY – The Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) donated four truckloads of seized illegal lumber to earthquake-affected municipalities in Davao del Sur Thursday’s delivery of “hot” lumber was received by Davao del Sur Gov. Douglas Cagas to help local government units (LGUs) rebuild the structures and buildings destroyed
by the series of earthquakes that hit Mindanao late last year. The deliveries came a month after Padada Mayor Pedro Caminero Jr.
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asked MinDA to help in rebuilding the town’s public market stalls and other structures. “Immediately after he made the request, I called up DENR Secretary Roy Cimatu and asked if the agency could turn over to earthquake affected LGUs the illegal cut lumber it seized from illegal loggers. Luckily, the secretary obliged to our request,” MinDA Secretary Emmanuel Piñol said. Out of the total donated top logs, some 18,892 board feet were donated by DENR -11 while the 20,000 board feet were given by DENR-Caraga. The logs Sampulna said the lumber mostly will be given to the LGUs of Padada, came from Caraga because the area is teeming with confiscated logs. Hagonoy, and Bansalan. “This is the DENR’s immediate “These seized wood products in the past were just left to rot in the yards response to the need of Davao del of DENR regional offices,” Piñol noted. Sur for its relocation sites and housing programs. I hope this helps in building “We’re showing in this activity decent homes for the affected families what governance is today and before. as they stand up again for their lives,” Now we have responsive governance. Sampulna said. We respond to challenges and adjust Meanwhile, Cagas thanked our ways to serve better our people,” MinDA and DENR for the assistance. he added. Piñol said the quick action by DENR reflected the style of governance of the Duterte administration, “which is innovative and resourceful.
“We will forward this lumber to the mayors to assist in the rebuilding of homes of their earthquake-affected constituents,” he said.
Piñol said MinDA was also finalizing with the Office of Senator Ronald “ Bato” dela Rosa supporting documents for the request of the release of special emergency funds from the Office of the DENR Undersecretary for President for earthquake-stricken LGUs Enforcement and Muslim Affairs Jim in Davao del Sur and Cotabato. (PNA) “Next week, MinDA will also turnover carpentry and power tools to be used in the repair and reconstruction,” he added.
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NATIONAL NEWS
National News SEC. MARTIN ANDANAR PCOO
NEWS CORNER
New sin tax law to give Pinoys comfortable life: Andanar
beverages and e-cigarettes,” Andanar said. “The signing of RA 11467 is indeed a triumph for every Filipino as it will allow the government to continue to provide social services and programs that will achieve the vision of President Duterte of providing a dignified and comfortable life for all,” he added. RA 11467, signed by the President on Jan. 22, seeks to increase the excise tax rates on alcohol, heated tobacco, and vape products to generate funds for the government’s universal health care (UHC) program.
Earlier, the Department of Finance estimated that the higher taxes on vape, tobacco, and liquor would generate PHP47.9 billion for the MANILA - The signing of Republic UHC program in 2020, and a total of PHP356.9 billion for the program over Act (RA) 11467, which raises the next five years.
excise taxes on vape, heated tobacco and liquor products, will help President Rodrigo Duterte fulfill his promise of a “dignified and comfortable” life for Filipinos, Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Martin Andanar said on Friday.
Andanar said RA 11467 would enable Filipinos to enjoy equitable access to quality and affordable health care services.
“This new law will generate revenue which the government can use in the implementation of the Universal Health Care (UHC) program In a statement, Andanar said the and the enhancement of its health new law would pave the way for the facilities, in order to deliver quality effective and prompt delivery of basic healthcare to all,” he said. services. The new law imposes a 22-percent “We laud President Duterte ad valorem tax on of the PHP42 per for signing the bill that will impose proof liter for distilled spirits in 2020. This additional excise taxes on alcoholic will increase to PHP47, PHP52, PHP59,
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and PHP66 per proof liter from 2021 to Salt nicotine products will be 2024. slapped with an excise tax of PHP37 in 2020, PHP42 in 2021, PHP47 in 2022, For wine products, the excise tax is and PHP52 in 2023. PHP50 per liter in 2020 and will increase by six percent every year starting 2021. For “freebase” or “classic” nicotine products, excise tax rate Excise tax rates on beer products increases to PHP45 per pack in 2020, and other fermented liquors are PHP35, PHP50 per pack in 2021, PHP55 per PHP37, PHP39, PHP41, and PHP43 per pack in 2022, and PHP60 per pack in liter in 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024, 2023. respectively. The new law also exempts the RA 11467 exempts tuba, basi, sale or importation of medicines tapuy, and similar fermented liquors for diabetes, high cholesterol and from higher excise taxes. hypertension from value-added tax (VAT) beginning January 2020. Meanwhile, every pack of heated tobacco products with 20 units or It also exempts from VAT medicines more are levied with an excise tax of for cancer, mental illness, tuberculosis, PHP25 in 2020, PHP27.50 in 2021, PHP30 and kidney diseases starting January in 2022, and PHP32 in 2023. 2023. (Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos/PNA) January 25-31, 2020
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National News
DOE keeps close eye on TRAIN Law implementation
TAGUIG CITY -The Department of Energy (DOE), through its Oil Industry Management Bureau (OIMB), is keeping a close eye on the implementation of the third and final tranche of excise taxes on petroleum products under the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law, which took effect on 1 January 2020. Under this tranche, additional excise taxes of P1.00 per liter for gasoline, P1.50 per liter for diesel, and P1.00 per kilogram (kg) for household liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) will be imposed. There will also be an additional 12 percent Value Added Tax, bringing the total to P1.12 per liter for gasoline and per kg of LPG, and P1.68 per liter for diesel.
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“The DOE has been undertaking all necessary measures to ensure that all tranches of excise taxes on petroleum products are properly implemented. On top of our regular monitoring of companies’ compliance to national quantity and quality standards, the DOE-OIMB has been conducting verification inspections to make sure
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National News that that depots and terminals are have already been depleted. complying with the provisions of the TRAIN Law. Meanwhile, for LPG refilling plants, 4 of 297 have already implemented In particular, stocks that are part of additional excise taxes starting 10 their 31 December 2019 inventories are January 2020. not to be subjected to additional excise taxes. Liquid fuel retail outlets, or what To date, Shell, PTT, Chevron, we commonly call as gasoline stations, Petrogazz, Seaoil, and Total, with are also expected to follow the same, over 900 liquid fuels retail outlets, and are required to display a tarpaulin have already informed the DOE of indicating which of their products have their implementation of additional been additionally taxed, and the date excise taxes. This accounts to over of implementation,” Secretary Alfonso ten percent of the 9,003 retail outlets G. Cusi said. nationwide. As of 24 January 2020, 48 of 67 LPG depots and 40 of 116 liquid fuel depots have already imposed additional excise taxes, indicated that their 31 December 2019 inventories
The DOE assures the public that it will continue monitoring retail outlets and their implementation of the taxation scheme to uphold the best interests of all consumers. (DOE)
PRRD inaugurates DSWD’s Malasakit Building MANILA - President Rodrigo R. Duterte inaugurated the new office building of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) named the “Malasakit Building” at the central office in Batasan Hills, Quezon City during the agency’s 69th founding anniversary culminating activity on Wednesday. “Today is the most auspicious time to talk about the true meaning of malasakit at pagbabago, as we celebrate the 69th Founding Anniversary of the Department of Social Welfare and Development,” Duterte said in his speech at the DSWD
Central Office. “For nearly seven decades, DSWD has been the lead agency of the government in ensuring that Filipinos have equal access to opportunities and are enabled to improve their
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National News
[quality of life] in a fair, just and peaceful manner,” he added. The new building was built to enhance its operational capacity by providing additional workspace and a comfortable environment for its clients and personnel.
Kapit-Bisig Laban sa KahirapanComprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHICIDSS), Social Pension for Indigent Senior Citizens (SPISC), and Supplementary Feeding Program (SFP), among others. The agency sees stronger coordination in terms of improving program implementation to ensure that the government’s target to reduce poverty incidence to 14 percent by 2022 will be achieved.
The agency said the building is a reminder to all officials and staff of the real essence of the department’s mandate which is to provide genuine, prompt, and compassionate service to the poor, vulnerable, and marginalized sectors. The construction of the Malasakit Building was undertaken in partnership It will house the DSWD Operations with the Department of Public Works Group implementing the Pantawid and Highways (DPWH) - Bureau of Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), Construction and was completed on Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), Dec. 13, 2019. (PR)
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