CONTENTS Caraga Infocus 7
04 - 10 January 2020
7 8 9 11 13 14
REGIONAL NEWS Caraganons closely observe the promulgation of judgment on Maguindanao massacre case DSWD-Caraga reiterates correct process for adoption, foster care Gov’t agencies assess VAWC cases in Caraga Various sectors discuss ways to curb harmful effects of Climate Change PNP Caraga to intensify operations despite lifting of martial law CNT member surrenders to Caraga PNP on New Year
Volume IV, No. 02
PROVINCIAL NEWS
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With or without martial law, 22 Army to intensify security 24 measures in Caraga
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AgNor guv ensures more projects for 2020 AgNor town leads indignation rally vs CPP-NPA-NDF Lands intended for ‘Plant! Plant! Plant!’ project inspected Young NPA vice leader surrenders to AgSur police Land tenure target sa SurSur nasa mahigit 130% sa taong 2019 DAR Surigao Sur surpassed 2019 land tenure targets Lianga Bay in SurSur positive for shellfish poisoning; other areas in Caraga remain redtide free Gov’t help sought to find IP villager seized by NPA in Surigao
MINDANAO NEWS
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Martial law in Mindanao served its purpose: prelate MinDA gears for OFW repatriation
NATIONAL NEWS
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Andanar lauds China’s innovations in media sector DA eyes higher palay harvest in 2020 Duterte thanks Japan for continued support
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News Briefs In preparation for the second round of the Sabayang Patak Kontra Polio Vaccination by the Department of Health (DOH), the DOH Caraga has reiterated some of the accomplishments of the Round one of the monovalent vaccination. Among the cities in Caraga, Tandag City has accomplished 100% of the target number of vaccinated children for the said round while the remaining cities accomplished 95%.
President Duterte signed the Salary Standardization Law of 2019 on January 8, 2020 seeking to increase wages of government employees, including nurses and teachers in the public sector. Under the newly signed law, the salary adjustment will be given in four tranches starting in January 2020 and ending in 2023. A total of P34 billion was allocated in the 2020 national budget for the salary increases for the current year.
Joint PPOC & PADAC meeting held in Tandag City, the PNP reported that they have conducted 82 positive operations on illegal drugs, which resulted to the arrest of 87 persons, & confiscation of numerous illegal drugs (shabu, marijuana, cocaine) with an estimated cost of P20,397,386.00 from January - December 2019. The Butuan City Business One Stop-Shop (BOSS) is open from Monday to Sunday at City Hall Lobby for a better, faster and friendlier service for business owners. Secure your business permit now to avoid penalty! Filing beyond January 20, 2020 will have a surcharge of 25%. For renewal, bring pertinent documents such as Brgy. Clearance, Cedula, Fire Safety Inspection Certificate (FSIC) and the copy of last year’s business permit. (Butuan City PIO)
With or without marti intensify security me By Jennifer P. Gaitano
B
UTUAN CITY - The Philippine Army assures the public that they are heightening security measures in the Caraga region despite the lifting of the martial law in Mindanao. This was reiterated by Brigadier General Maurito Licudine, commander of 402nd Infantry Brigade, Philippine Army, as he stressed the directive of President Rodrigo Dutere on the implementation of the Executive Order 70 or the whole-of-nation approach to end local communist armed conflict. He said, there has been a significant number of former rebels who brought along their high-powered firearms as they voluntarily surrendered to the authorities. These former rebels have chosen to live a normal and peaceful life with their families and availed of the assistance from the government for a decent livelihood.
any danger to the populace,� cited “With or without Martial Law, Licudine. we can manage. We are intensifying our security measures to preempt The official added that Caraga, as any lawless elements from causing well as other regions in Mindanao would
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January 4-10, 2020
ial law, Army to easures in Caraga
Col. Allan Hambala, commander of 401st Infantry Brigade, also revealed that former rebels have already availed and benefitted from the different programs and services of various government agencies, aside from the financial assistance that they would receive by the time of their surrender through the Enhanced – Comprehensive Livelihood Integration Program (E-CLIP). Hambala further bared that a half-way house was built in Agusan del Sur for the former rebels to start a new life. The troops also continue to pursue the other members of the New People’s Army who are causing violence and abuses to various sectors particularly the indigenous peoples.
become more progressive if peace and order is sustained, and the safety and security of the local populace are ensured. More investments would also come in for Caraganons.
Meanwhile, it can be recalled that Butuan Bishop Most Reverend Cosme Damian Almedilla has also expressed his support to the implementation of the Martial Law in Mindanao. He emphasized that martial law has brought more developments in the region, as it helped in maintaining peace and order in the different areas of the region. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
January 4-10, 2020
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REGIONAL NEWS
Regional News
Caraganons closely observe the promulgation of judgment on Maguindanao massacre case By Jennifer P. Gaitano
BUTUAN CITY – The Caraganons fixed their attention in witnessing the promulgation of judgment on the Maguindanao massacre case via live telecast. Alexander Lopez, bureau chief of the Philippine News Agency based in Caraga region and formerly assigned in Cotabato was one of those who closely monitored the verdict against the accused. He said, despite the hard wait for the decision of the jury, he still feels happy that the court has finally released the judgment against the accused individuals who are responsible for the detestable crime that they committed. Lopez further revealed that one of the victims was his former colleague and he was disappointed with his untimely death especially that the victim was just doing his job as a media Ramil Bangues, president of practitioner. the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster sa Pilipinas (KBP) Agusan del Norte-Butuan “I feel relieved that finally the City Chapter, also expressed his joy on verdict against the suspects was the verdict specified by the Regional released, though we waited for a long Trial Court against the responsible time, yet I’m happy that justice was individuals, particularly the influential served to the victims,” cited Lopez. family of the Ampatuan. January 4-10, 2020
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Regional News “This only shows that the justice who are still at large would now system in the country is working and surrender and face the consequences justice for our co-journalists who were of the crime they committed. killed were served to them,” bared Bangues. “I hope that those other eighty Meanwhile, Dina Torrepalma, a suspects would surrender and face the resident of Barangay Doongan, Butuan consequence of what they have done, City, conveyed her hope that the other so justice be served to the victims,” said suspects of the Maguindanao massacre Torrepalma. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
DSWD-Caraga reiterates correct process for adoption, foster care By Jennifer P. Gaitano
BUTUAN CITY - Several couples who do not have kids yet have applied for adoption and foster care of children under the custody of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga. The said agency has stressed to all interested couples the importance of following the right and legal process of adoption.
Act 10165 states that DSWD shall issue a foster family care license based on the home study report submitted by the agency to determine the motivations, capacities, and potentials According to Thesa Joy Musa, for development of the applicants. head of the adoption resource and referral unit of DSWD-Caraga, Republic “So far, we haven’t experienced
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January 4-10, 2020
Regional News any problem with the adoptive parents or couples because they knew their roles and responsibilities to their adopting children. We hope this will continue, as we want to ensure the safety, security, and welfare of the children within their custody,� shared Musa. The license is renewable every three years unless revoked by DSWD. A DSWD social worker will be assigned to conduct the home study report which will be forwarded to the department. She cited that there are two types of adoption, namely, the permanent adoption and temporary or foster care in which foster parents are authorized
to provide shelter, food, parental supervision, and sometimes even educational assistance to children who are not related to them. The appropriate process still has to be followed to ensure their readiness in emotional, mental and financial aspects as they pursue the adoption. The DSWD also conducts counseling for applicants, including children to be adopted. Meanwhile, Musa reminded all applicants to be responsible being the second parent of the children to be adopted and to give them a bright future. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
Gov’t agencies assess VAWC cases in Caraga By Jennifer P. Gaitano
BUTUAN CITY - The Regional Gender and Development Committee (RGADC) in the Caraga region has constantly been monitoring the recorded cases of violence against women and children in the region. With the launching of the gender- data from the case handlers or Violence based violence observatory hub Against Women (VAW) desk officers in project, the RGADC aims to gather different municipalities. This effort was January 4-10, 2020
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Regional News also reiterated during the recently held significant role of the VAW desk officers Summit on Gender-Based Violence in in the barangays, as well as concerned Butuan City. government agencies so that people would become more empowered According to Commission on and engaging in preventing cases of Human Rights (CHR)-Caraga regional gender-based violence. director and RGADC chair, Atty. Jerefe Tubigon-Bacang, the government has “For us government workers, we geared up its advocacy campaign should have a welcoming atmosphere at the grassroots and ensures in such a way that we don’t easily judge implementation of laws that protect those victims of violence. It is the reason the rights and promote the welfare of why they are usually hesitant to report women and children, as well as prevent their experiences of abuse because any forms of violence or abuse against they are sometimes prejudged,” them. Lamigo said. She further highlighted that data gathering on gender-based violence Meanwhile, the Philippine and VAWC cases are regularly being National Police (PNP) also called on conducted in the Caraga region. the public to be alert and help the authorities in solving related cases, by This will serve as bases for the way of reporting to them any untoward government in the creation of new incident or domestic violence that policies, plan and activities for the they have seen and observed in their women and children sectors. respective barangays, so the PNP could respond and provide appropriate “We need to have data as our action. evidence and basis for the programs, actions of the Commission on Human “Locals should never be afraid Rights, as well as to make these data to report any VAWC-related incident work,” cited Bacang. they know in their barangay because it is in that way that they could help VAW desk officer Terresita Aya and save one’s life from any abuse revealed that most of the cases she or violence,” said Police Major Marife has handled are marital problems Farol, chief, Family Juvenile Gender which resulted in domestic violence. And Development of Police Regional She encouraged the couples to talk Office-13. about their marital issues and resolve them peacefully to avoid ending up in “We also have to encourage men a resentful situation. to avoid committing VAW and help advocate for a VAWC-free community,” Atty. Khalil Lamigo of the Philippine added Police Major Mirasol Torralba, Ports Authority - Port Management chief, Women And Children Protection Office of Agusan, stressed the Desk of PRO-13. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
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January 4-10, 2020
Regional News
Various sectors discuss ways to curb harmful effects of Climate Change By Jennifer P. Gaitano
BUTUAN CITY Different sectors in Caraga region were oriented about the harmful impacts of Climate Change, which are caused mainly by the increased levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide produced by the use of fossil fuels. And this has brought more risks to people’s health conditions. With this initiative posed by the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) Caraga, the Forum on Climate Justice held in Butuan City has enlightened the sectoral groups to take responsibility and promote the rights of every individual to live in a pollution-free environment, and to hold corporations accountable
for contributing to these effects. Atty. Zeldania Soriano, who heads the Community Legal Help Project, cited that petitioners against fossil fuelproducing companies have found the significance of “climate justice” as these companies have been held
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Regional News
liable by the united nations framework convention on climate change for contributing much to the climate change’ impacts.
Various sectors have expressed their full support and cooperation to the resolutions initiated by the government that will also benefit the next generation.
CHR-Caraga regional director Atty. Jerefe Tubigon-Bacang underlined the corporate responsibility and important role of every sector to curb the harmful effects of climate change brought about by the use of fossil fuel that causes danger to people’s health condition.
Atty. Marjorie Llamo, representative from the Urios Legal Assistance Program (ULAP) of the Father Saturnino Urios University (FSUU) in Butuan City, also shared that every individual should have a better understanding on Climate Change and its effects to the communities and in the country in general.
“Every Filipino, not only the scientists, academicians should know about Climate Change and its effects to the country. We should take an active part in contributing to the efforts of the government in minimizing the emission that really caused pollution,” said Bacang.
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“Let’s take this issue seriously and make a move even on our own little ways to lessen the impact of Climate Change. Let us work together with the government stakeholders and support them, as they strive to address this concern,” Llamo added. (JPG/PIACaraga)
January 4-10, 2020
Regional News
PNP Caraga to intensify operations despite lifting of martial law BUTUAN CITY - The Philippine National Police (PNP) Caraga vows to strengthen police operations even after the lifting of the martial law in Mindanao last December 31, 2019. This will be made effective through the directive of Police Brigadier General Joselito Esquivel, Jr., Police Regional Office 13 Director, to lower units to stepup conduct of Special Police Operation such as checkpoint in different areas of the region, the conduct of which is part of crime prevention activities of PNP Caraga.
5,650; 9,348 for 2018 and 9,555 for 2019 yielding a total of 24,553.
“PNP Caraga will continue to improve our crime prevention activities to suppress all forms of lawless violence despite the expiration of martial law. Caraganons will live in a peaceful region where progress continues through the help and active support of Data from the Regional the community,� said Esquivel. Investigation and Detection Management Division (RIDMD) 13 shows President Rodrigo Roa Duterte that PNP Caraga recorded a crime declared martial law in Mindanao on volume of 14,331 for 2015; 10,029 for May 23, 2017, after the Islamic State 2016 and 3,491 for January 1 to May 22, of Iraq and Syria (ISlS)-inspired Maute 2017, having a total of 27, 851. While for terrorist group attacked Marawi City, the period May 23, 2017, to December Lanao del Sur. (DMRosales/PNP13/PIA31, 2017 crime volume recorded was Caraga) January 4-10, 2020
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Regional News
CNT member surrenders to Caraga PNP on New Year LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN Dumarami pa ang mga Indigenous Peoples (IP) sa Caraga region na aktibong nakilahok sa mga aktibidad ng gobyerno tungo sa epektibong implementasyon ng Executive Order 70 (EO70) ni Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte o ang wholeof-nation approach na layong sugpuin ang insurhensiya sa bansa.
Jose Capilitan Rivero, Jr, a 20-yearold resident of Purok-2, Barangay Upper Patag, Sison, Surigao del Norte, was a member of Sentro de Grabidad (SDG), Guerilla Front Committee (GFC) 16, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC) known with aliases “Ka Diesel” and “Ka Ichigo” surrendered and turned-over a handgrenade to the Sison Municipal Police Station (MPS) in Surigao del Norte Police Provincial Office after three years of being an active member of the CNT group. Police Brigadier General Joselito TEsquivel, Jr., Police Regional Office (PRO) 13 Director, further disclosed that a former member of the CNT group, a certain Discoro Tumboc, Jr. alias “Ka Judy” who surrendered to Sison MPS last September 29, 2019, convinced him to
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surrender to the government and start anew as a law-abiding civilian. Upon further investigation, it was discovered that Rivero, Jr. became a CNT member when he was just 17 years old after having been convinced with their propaganda and false promises. As it bore no substantial changes to his life, he decided to change paths and renounce terrorism. Caraga police view such incident as an example for remaining members of terrorist groups to reflect on and follow. The government has promised to provide support upon their surrender through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) which will help them establish their lives as functional members of society. (DMRosales/PNP13/PIA-Caraga)
January 4-10, 2020
PROVINCIAL NEWS
Provincial News
AgNor guv ensures more projects for 2020 By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales
BUTUAN CITY The year 2020 is expected to be busier for Agusan del Norte employees as projects under AGUSAN UP! will require better work performance from personnel who work for the betterment of Agusan del Norte. During the Monday Convocation Program on January 6 at the capitol grounds, Governor Dale B. Corvera said the projects laid out for the current year will require higher performance ratings from the employees of the provincial capitol to further the progress envisioned by the eight-point development agenda.
the Plant and Process for Prosperity that targets economic development; Amumamang Agusanon which focuses on social progress; Lunhaw’ng Agusan which promotes environmental conservation and protection; and Hiniusang Lihuk Agusan which aims to develop an organized system to guarantee efficiency.
A meeting among the office heads is scheduled this January 14 to evaluate the relevance of the projects they have prepared for the current year to the objectives of AGUSAN UP!, he said.
Through the mentioned programs, the vision of making Agusan del Norte an agri-forest processing center and economic zone in Caraga in the year 2027 will be made possible which is foreseen to mitigate the poverty rate in the province, from a whopping 34% The AGUSAN UP! is comprised down to 15%. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/ of four flagship programs: Agus 3Ps or PIA-Agusan del Norte)
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January 4-10, 2020
Provincial News
AgNor town leads indignation rally vs CPP-NPA-NDF By Arvin Reyes Silvosa
MAGALLANES, Agusan del Norte - The local government unit (LGU) of Magallanes, Agusan del Norte joined recently the Philippine National Police (PNP) in spearheading the simultaneous nationwide conduct of indignation rally in condemning the atrocities and illegal activities of the Communist Party of the PhilippinesNew People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CNN). “There’s no place for terrorism and communism in Magallanes. Sama-sama nating labanan ang terorismo sa pamamagitan nang pakikipagtulungan sa awtoridad at Gobyerno,” said PLt. Tejanne Q. Zarzoso, OIC Chief of Police of the Magallanes Municipal Police Station (MMPS) during the indignation rally conducted at the People’s Park, on the same day the Communist Party of the Philippines celebrated its 51st founding anniversary. “We, the people of Magallanes have spoken. We want peace as we believe there can only be development if there is peace,” said Mayor Cesar “Bubu” Cumba, Jr., in his message of support for the Whole Of Nation Approach as he condemned the evil
ways of the CNN which hampered the development of the town from decades ago. In a statement, the Department of the Interior and Local Government said the activity was part of the Duterte administration’s effort to end the decades-old insurgency problem in the country by 2020 and to attain sustainable peace and development through multi-stakeholders’ active participation. SILG Eduardo M. Año issued a Memorandum Circular which
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Provincial News encouraged other members of the society, including the private sector and members of the community, to support peace and development building initiatives of the government. Joining the rail y were at least 300 individuals from the municipal government, barangay units and barangay peacekeeping teams, other national agencies, and private sectors, civil society organizations and transport organizations. Among the activities during the indignation rally include the following: - Motorcade / Caravan during the Indignation Rally while showcasing Placards/Tarpaulins re: NO TO CPP/ NDF indignation rally. NPA/NDF; - Messages on expression of support and indignation by the local officials, national agencies, former rebel, and barangay officials;
Cpl Jovanne Elleso, of the 29IB Philippine Army, said that the CNN continues to thrive on three kinds of support from the people: (1) financial; (2) material; (3) moral. He further explained that in order for the terrorists to cease to exist, this support must be stopped, for the government cannot end the communist insurgency problem alone without the active participation of its partners from the different sectors.
Reading of the Municipal Resolution Declaring the CNN and all its legal fronts as Persona Non-Grata in the Municipality of Magallanes by Sangguniang Bayan Member James dela Fuerta, as based on the consolidated Barangay Resolutions of The said rally is a nationwide all barangays of Magallanes approved protest against violence, terrorism, and during the barangay assemblies; all forms of atrocities. Said undertaking - Video presentations depicting is also in line with the implementation of President Rodrigo Duterte’s the lies and evils of the CNN; and Executive Order No. 70 on Ending Local - Burning of Joma Sison Effigies/ Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) as NPA Flag during CPP/NPA/NDF part of the Whole Of Nation Approach Indignation Rally Leaflets distribution re: (WONA). (DILG Magallanes, Agusan NO TO CPP/NPA/NDF during CPP/NPA/ del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)
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Provincial News
Lands intended for ‘Plant! Plant! Plant!’ project inspected BUTUAN CITY -The ‘Plant! Plant! Plant!’ Project of the AGUSAN UP! under the provincial government of Agusan del Norte is now gradually being implemented as several hectares of land in the municipality of Buenavista in Agusan del Norte allotted for the planting of the highvalue crops were subjected to an ocular inspection on January 8.
A total of 253 hectares were covered on the first day of the conduct of the said inspection and will be continued in the specified areas in the said municipality. The lands in the city of Cabadbaran are set to be inspected next.
during the consultation conducted on December 11, 2019.
The said land was to make effective the vision of the AGUSAN UP!, an eight-point development agenda of the province, wherein Agusan del Norte will be considered an agri-forest The said inspection was conducted processing center and economic zone in order to determine the exact area of the Caraga region. of land and other necessities of the groups and individuals who are tasked Such goal is seen to be the solution with the implementation of the project. for mitigating the poverty rate in the province thereby creating a financially It can be recalled that a total of secured living for every Agusanon. 8,000 hectares of land were committed (DMRosales/LGU-Agusan del Norte/ by the initial batch of farmers’ groups PIA-Agusan del Norte) January 4-10, 2020
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Young NPA vice leader surrenders to AgSur police BUTUAN CITY - The vice squad leader of the Sandatahang Yunit Pangpropaganda of the Guerilla Front 19, Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee of the New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered recently to the Agusan del Sur Police in their provincial office in Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur.
The 20-year-old squad leader, identified as alias “BL” from Brgy. Los Arcos, Prosperidad, has now vowed to renounce terrorism as he yields his Norinco caliber .45 pistol and disclosed some of the personal details of his three-year service to the NPA. He cited the hardships he has encountered in the armed struggle along with the persistent counterinsurgency drive of both the military and police forces in the region as his motivators to act on his decision to surrender. The Philippine National Police (PNP) Caraga was in full support of his decision and promised to assist him in creating a new life as a law-abiding
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civilian. As such, he will be granted access to livelihood programs such as the Enhanced Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), firearm remuneration, and immediate cash assistance. Brigadier General Joselito T. Esquivel, Jr., Police Regional Office (PRO) 13 Regional Director, commended the now-former rebel’s decision and assured him that he had made the right decision. The police official also urged remaining active members of the terrorist groups to abandon terrorist ideologies which will serve as their contribution to the on-going peace development in the country. (DMRosales/PNP13/PIACaraga)
January 4-10, 2020
Provincial News
Land tenure target sa SurSur nasa mahigit 130% sa taong 2019 By Nida Grace P. Barcena
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – Ibinunyag ng opisyal ng Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) sa Surigao del Sur na nalagpasan na nila ng mahigit sa 100 porsyento ang kanilang “Land Tenure Services” (LTS) target sa taong 2019.
Sa panayam kay Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer (PARO) Leoncio Bautista, ibinunyag niya na nakamit na nila ang 130 porsyento na accomplishment sa LTS program, at 120 porsyento naman sa Program Beneficiaries Development (PBD), lagpas sa kanilang tinatayang target na makamtan ang 100 porsyento sa taong 2019.
Land Tenure improvement lahat ng 10 funded targets ng LTS ay na surpass ng ahensya namin ang implementasyon sa buong probinsya,” sabi ni PARO Bautista.
Base sa datus na ibinahagi mula sa Land Tenure Improvement Division (LTID) ng nasabing ahensya, sila ay nakapag comply sa Survey of New Lands na umabot sa 308.2373 ektarya “Dahil sa komitment at o 136 porsyento mula sa kanila target kooperasyon na ibinigay ng buong na 477.9864 ektarya lamang. workforce ng Surigao del Sur sa tatlong major output ng departamento, sa Bukod pa dito, 227 Certificate January 4-10, 2020
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Provincial News of Land Ownership Award (CLOA) ang naibigay nila sa taong 2019 na mayroong 377.5421 ektaryang lupa o 214 porsyento mula sa kanilang target na 98 CLOAs at eryang 176.2107 sa buong probinsya. Sa ginawang stratehiya para makamit ang tinatayang abutin bago pa man matapos ang 2019, naging sandata ng mga personahe sa
nasabing ahensya ang kooperasyon, didikasyon at komitment sa trabaho, na naging daan upang makampatan ang mataas na marka, paglilinaw pa ni PARO Bautista. “Hangad ko na maibalik sa ang dating kasikatan ng Surigao del Sur na ngayon pa lang ay unti-unti nang nakakamit,” pagtatapos pa ni Bautista. (NGB/PIA-Surigao del Sur)
DAR Surigao Sur surpassed 2019 land tenure targets
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – Commitment and teamwork are the factors that contributed to the milestone that the Department of Agrarian Reform in the province of Surigao del Sur (DAR-Surigao Sur) achieved in 2019. Leoncio Bautista Jr., the Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer II of DARSurigao Sur, said the surpassing 100-percent of the target based on the 2019 target of the Land Tenure Services (LTS) program of DAR-Surigao Sur under its Land Tenure Improvement Division (LTID).
This achievement showed their undying resolve to serve the farmers, especially those considered landless in Surigao del Sur,” Bautista added.
Meanwhile, Jorge Quijada, the LTID chief of DAR-Surigao Sur, said their office achieved more than 100 percent “I commend our personnel for in each of the milestones of the LTS their cooperation and commitment. target.
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Provincial News Quijada said the milestones include Research and Documentation, Survey of New Lands, Certificate of Land Ownership Award (CLOA) Registration, CLOA Distribution, Agrarian Reform Beneficiary (ARB) Installation, Leasehold, Subdivision Survey of Collective CLOAs, and Redocumentation of Collective CLOAs.
Quijada also lauded the support of all the LTID staff for the achievement, including the Municipal Agrarian Reform Program Officers (MARPOs) in the province.
He also took note of the support of the administrative services of the DAR-Surigao del Sur that also served as In Research and Documentation, a vital factor for last year’s success. Quijada said their office achieved 105 percent accomplishment with 67 DAR-Surigao Sur chief landholdings documented from the administrative officer Jerry Villason also target of 64 landholdings. thanked the administrative section for its all-out support. A high accomplishment of 136 percent was also gained in the Survey “Land tenure is the essence of of New Lands with 308.2373 hectares DAR and it is the core program of the actually surveyed this year compared agency to the landless farmers in the to 226.8232 hectares targeted. province,” he said. A 102 percent accomplishment was also achieved by the office in the Registration of CLOAs with a total of 485.8413 hectares actually registered compared to 477.9864 hectares targeted last year.
He said the administrative services of the office will continue to the LTID to attain its targets for 2020.
In a text message, DAR Caraga regional director Leomides Villareal hailed the officials of DAR-Surigao Sur A total of 227 CLOAs were also for the “beating their targets” and distributed in the province last year giving hope to the landless farmers in covering 377.5421 hectares of lands the province. with the equivalent of 214 percent accomplishment compared to 98 “Agricultural productivity can be CLOAs with an area of 176.2107 achieved by our farmers if they own hectares targeted in 2019, Quijada the land they till,” Villareal said. said. He added that the breakthrough The DAR-Surigao Sur also installed the DAR-Surigao Sur achieved 235 ARBs last year with a total of 235 contributed much to the overall percent accomplishment compared to accomplishment of the DAR-Caraga the 2019 target of 97 ARBs, he added. Region in 2019. (Alexander Lopez/PNA) January 4-10, 2020
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Lianga Bay in SurSur positive for shellfish poisoning; other areas in Caraga remain redtide free By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales
BUTUAN CITY - The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has identified Lianga Bay in Surigao del Sur, as one of the seven areas all over the country, positive for paralytic shellfish poison that exceeded their regulatory limit. This was after the death of – Irong-irong, San Pedro and Silanga a couple on November 27 who Bays; Eastern Samar – Matarinao Bay; consumed uncooked shellfish, which Leyte – Cancabo Bay, Tacloban City. was a popular dish in the Lianga Bay. Meanwhile, Hinatuan and Bislig A sample collected from the Bays in the province of Surigao del Sur area resulted to a 130.34-417.32 continue to be free from the toxic red μgSTXeq/100g (microgram of saxitoxin tides as well as the following areas: equivalent per 100 grams) of shellfish Coastal waters of Cavite, Las Piñas, meat which exceeds the regulatory Parañaque, Navotas, and Bulacan in limit of 60 μgSTXeq/100g of shellfish Manila Bay; Bolinao, Anda, Alaminos, meat. Sual and Wawa, Bani in Pangasinan; Pampanga; Milagros, Mandaon, and The other six areas positive for Placer in Masbate; Inner Malampaya paralytic shellfish poison the BFAR has Sound, Taytay in Palawan; Gigantes identified are: Bataan coastal waters Islands in Iloilo; Pilar, Panay, President (Mariveles, Limay, Orion, Pilar, Balanga, Roxas, and Roxas City in Capiz; E.B. Hermosa, Orani, Abucay, and Samal); Magalona, Talisay City Silay City, Puerto Princesa Bay in Puerto Princesa Bacolod City, Hinigaran, and Victorias City, Palawan; Dauis and Tagbilaran City in Negros Occidental; Daram City coastal waters; Western Samar Island, Cambatutay, Maqueda, and
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Provincial News Villareal Bays in Western Samar; Leyte, Calubian, Carigara, and San Pedro Bays in Leyte; Biliran Province; Santa Maria in Davao Occidental; Juag Lagoon, Matnog and Sorsogon Bay in Sorsogon; Honda Bay in Puerto Princesa City; Sapian Bay (Ivisan and Sapian in Capiz; Mambuquiao and Camanci, Batan in Aklan); Altavas, Batan and New Washington in Batan Bay, Aklan; Tambobo and Siit Bays, Siaton and Bais Bay, Bais City in Negros Oriental; Dumaquillas Bay in Zamboanga del Sur; Taguines Lagoon, Benoni, Mahinog in Camiguin Island; Balite and Pujada Bays, Mati in Davao Oriental. According to the data released by the agency on December 27, 2019, all types of shellfish and species related to the Acetes sp., local name “alamang”, are declared not safe for human consumption. Toxins present in the said species cannot be removed as the organisms releasing the toxins are heatstable and cannot be disintegrated by any means, even when subjected to cryogenic temperatures.
However, fish, squids, and crabs are considered safe provided that they are fresh and washed thoroughly, with the internal organs removed prior to cooking. Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) is one of the most common shellfish poisoning syndromes in the country caused by the high concentration of algae in bodies of water known as red tide. This gives discoloration to the shellfish, ranging from yellow, brown, green, blue, or milky, depending on the organisms present. Symptoms of shellfish poisoning are tingling sensation in the lips and tongue, which typically spreads to the face, neck, fingertips, and toes within 30 minutes, proceeded by headache, dizziness, and nausea. Severe cases include muscular paralysis and respiratory difficulty within five to 12 hours. Deaths caused by respiratory paralysis from the poisoning have also been reported. (BFAR/PIACaraga)
Gov’t help sought to find IP villager seized by NPA in Surigao TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – The Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) of the municipality of San Miguel in the province of Surigao del Sur appealed for help from the government to locate a Manobo tribe member abducted by the New People’s Army (NPA) in the area. January 4-10, 2020
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Provincial News In an interview with the Philippine News Agency on Sunday, Datu Rico Maca said Taloy Aguilo Astudillo and another Manobo identified only by his family name ‘Bibat’ were seized by the NPA from their village in Sitio Inadan, Magroyong, San Miguel, Surigao del Sur on Dec. 3, 2019. Maca said the NPA only released Bibat on the same day but the tribe has no knowledge of the whereabouts of Astudillo until now. “They were abducted by the NPA for suspicion of being assets of the locate the victim,” Maca added. Philippine Army,” Maca added. On Sunday, Captain Jonald He said the family of Astudillo is Romorosa, civil-military operations also appealing to the government for officer of the Army’s 36th Infantry help, including his children who are Battalion, told the PNA that they have now worried about his situation. already conducted operations to find the victim. “Astudillo is 30 years of age, married with three children. His wife is He said they also received also pregnant,” he added. information of a newly-found grave in the area but turned out negative He also asked the NPA to return after an actual verification by the the remains of Astudillo if ever they government troops. already killed the victim. “It is sad to note that people are Romorosa said the Army has kidnapped by the NPA because also been coordinating with the local they are suspected of being assets officials, community leaders, and the or supporters of the military,” Maca PNP to determine the condition of added. Astudillo and find his location. He said the abduction was already reported to the Philippine National NPA is an armed wing of the Police (PNP) and the Philippine Army Communist Party of the Philippines in the area but until now, no positive (CPP) listed as a terrorist organization findings were achieved in the efforts to by the United States, the European find Astudillo. Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, “The Army has already launched Canada, New Zealand, and the operations in the area but failed to Philippines. (Alexander Lopez/PNA)
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MINDANAO NEWS
Mindanao News
Martial law in Mindanao served its purpose: prelate MANILA - A Mindanao bishop said on Friday the declaration of martial law in Mindanao has served its purpose of ensuring peace and order.
“I think it was providential na nagkaroon, naisipang i-proclaim yung Martial Law dito sa Mindanao dahil nga at least nagdulot ito ng kapayapaan. Nakatulong ito sa pagsugpo sa masasamang elemento (that Martial Law was proclaimed here in Mindanao because at least, it brought peace. It helped in curbing lawless elements),” Marawi Bishop Edwin dela Peña said in an interview over Church-run Radyo Veritas.
mode, we cannot think of normalizing our lives including commerce and industry. It is difficult to attract foreign investments here in Mindanao if there is always an emergency,” he added. He, however, admitted that there still has no change in the situation in Marawi City, the ground zero of the battle between government forces and Muslim extremists.
“We are still waiting and it’s very difficult now to be waiting after more Following the end of martial law in than two years since the clashes broke the region on Dec. 31, 2019, dela Peña out, ”he said. said the people are now going about their lives normally. On May 23, 2017, President Rodrigo Duterte declared martial law “At the same time, we are also in Mindanao in response to the attack happy that martial law has ended of ISIS-inspired Maute Group in Marawi because it always conjures in the mind City. of people an emergency situation,” he said. It was extended three times, running a total of 953 days. (Ferdinand ”If we are always in an emergency Patinio /PNA)
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Mindanao News
MinDA gears for OFW repatriation
DAVAO CITY The Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) said it has drawn up livelihood programs for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who may have to come home in the country following the looming conflict between Iran and the United States. In a Facebook post on Wednesday, Secretary Emmanuel Piñol said the program includes cattle, hog, and poultry raising; sorghum, mango, and organic rice production; and agarwood propagation. Piñol said he already met MinDA personnel on Monday to discuss preparations for the huge numbers of OFWs who may have to be repatriated by the Philippine Government. He said the move came in the heels of President Rodrigo Duterte’s statements expressing concern for the safety of Filipino workers in the Middle East, as Iran and its proxies are seen preparing for possible retaliatory strikes against the United States.
Also on Wednesday, MinDA joined the crisis management meeting called by Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Secretary Silvestre Bello III. Piñol said MinDA presented its preparations for the crisis, which would mainly focus on livelihood and incomegenerating projects for the returning OFWs.
“The MinDA initiative to contribute to the preparations for the crisis was mainly because of the fact that many of the OFWs in Islamic countries in the Middle East come from Mindanao, including the Bangamoro Provinces,” Piñol said. “With proper preparation, the feared crisis could yet become a window “The preparations for the returning of opportunity for the agricultural and OFWs from the Middle East was one of economic development of Mindanao the major issues discussed in the staff with the involvement of thousands of meeting today,” he said. OFWs,” he added. (Che Palicte/PNA) January 4-10, 2020
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NATIONAL NEWS
National News In a letter sent to China Media Group (CMG) president Shen Haixiong, Andanar highlighted Beijing’s capability to provide its international audience an “in-depth understanding” of its rich history and existing policies, according to a January 3 report by China Plus.
SEC. MARTIN ANDANAR PCOO
NEWS CORNER
Andanar lauds China’s nnovations in media sector MANILA - Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar has hailed China’s initiatives to introduce reforms in its media and communications industry.
“In a letter, Martin Andanar, who is the secretary of the Presidential Communications Operations Office of the Philippines, congratulated Shen Haixiong, the president of China Media Group (CMG), for the organization’s coverage of major events in China,” China Plus, overseas all-in-one Englishlanguage media brand of Beijing’s state media China Radio International (CRI), said. “He (Andanar) said it provides opportunities for people around the world to gain an in-depth understanding of China’s history, its principles, and its ideals,” it added.
Shen, in a New Year’s message
January 4-10, 2020
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National News
to China’s global audience, ensured that Beijing is exhausting all efforts to transform its government-run broadcast firms into “world-class” mainstream media organizations. Shen added that the CMG would continue to have exchanges with international media in a bid to “remove misunderstandings and prejudice, and turn more people into friends.” CMG is a state media conglomerate merging state-owned China Central Television, China National Radio, CRI, and China Global Television Network.
bilateral media communications deals with China, which covers commitments to pursue personnel exchanges, workshops, seminars, information exchanges, rebroadcasts, joint production, and mutual visits. Andanar, as quoted by China Plus, praised CMG’s implemented programs, including the launch of multiple cuttingedge media platforms such as the 5G video application Yangshipin. The Communications chief was hopeful that China would further improve the services of its state media firms.
In November last year, Andanar said the Philippines and China have agreed to have stronger ties in the media sector.
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“Andanar said he hopes CMG will make further progress in 2020 as it strives to become a world-class mainstream media organization inspired by innovation,” the report read. (Ruth To date, the PCOO has multiple Abbey Gita-Carlos /PNA)
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January 4-10, 2020
National News
DA eyes higher palay harvest in 2020
QUEZON CITY - The Department of Agriculture (DA) targets to produce more palay (unhusked rice) and import less rice this year, as farmers begin to reap the initial benefits of the government’s Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) program. “We aim to harvest 19.6 million metric tons (MMT) of palay, net of damage due to adverse weather conditions,” said Agriculture Secretary William Dar, during his first media
briefing, on January 3, 2020, at the DA main office in Quezon City. “Our 2020 palay yield forecast would be three percent more than
January 4-10, 2020
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National News the estimated 2019 palay output of 19 and harvesting, farmers could attain an MMT,” added the recently-confirmed incremental yield of another one MMT DA chief. of palay per hectare,” the DA chief said. “We expect that initial benefits of interventions under the P10-billion Also under RCEF, the DA-Philippine RCEF program, particularly on inbred Center for Postharvest Development rice seeds given free to farmers, will be and Mechanization (DA-PHilMech) realized during the dry and main season will distribute P5-billion worth of farm crops starting this year,” Secretary Dar machines and equipment to qualified added. farmers’ cooperatives and associations, and local government units. Inbred certified palay seeds produce an average of 4.54 MT/ PhilMech research shows that ha as compared to farmer home- mechanizing rice farming operations saved seeds’ yield of 3.50 MT/ha and can reduce total palay production traditional seeds’ yield of 2.13 MT/ha, cost by P4/kg from the current average according to the DA-Philippine Rice of P12/kg. Research Institute (DA-PhilRice). “We have yet to mechanize “Hence, with RCEF seed Philippine agriculture, at a level of at intervention, we would generate an least four horsepower (hp) per hectare incremental yield of at least one MMT, (ha), and be at par with our ASEAN as we will provide farmers nationwide, counterparts,” said Secretary Dar. tilling a total of one million hectares, free certified palay seeds,” said Secretary Studies of the DA-PhilMech show Dar. the country’s level of mechanization is 1.23 hp/ha for all crops, 2.31 hp/ha The DA-PhilRice started distributing for rice in all provinces, and 3 hp/ha certified palay seeds in October 2019 in major rice-producing provinces like for the dry-season planting in 947 Isabela and Nueva Ecija. rice-producing towns and cities in 57 provinces. Under RCEF, rice farmers will Under RCEF, P3 billion is set aside also receive credit support worth P1B, each year for certified seeds up to 2024, through Land Bank of the Philippines where farmers will receive 40 kilograms (LBP) and Development Bank of the (kg) per hectare of certified rice seed Philippines (DBP), and another P1B for trainings and scholarships through the varieties for every planting season. DA’s Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) “Further, with the adoption of and DOLE’s Technical Education and modern technologies, and mechanizing Skills Development Authority (TESDA). land preparation, crop establishment (DA)
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National News
Duterte thanks Japan for continued support
MANILA - President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday expressed gratitude to Japan for continually extending assistance to his administration that help boosts the Philippine economy, Malacañang said. Duterte acknowledged Tokyo’s its continuing support to the country’s relentless support when Japanese development agenda,” the Palace Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu paid said in a press statement. a visit to him at Malacañan Palace. “The President highlighted “Japanese Foreign Minister numerous Japan-financed projects in Motegi Toshimitsu paid a courtesy on the Philippines, which make Filipinos President Rodrigo Duterte in Malacañan grateful to the Asian economic on Thursday, with the Philippine leader powerhouse for its continuing expressing his gratitude to Japan for assistance,” it added. January 4-10, 2020
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National News To date, Japan is the country’s top source of official development assistance (ODA), with USD8.64 billion in loans and grants, as of September 2019. Japan makes up nearly half or 46 percent of the Philippines’ total ODA portfolio. Malacañang said the President also thanked Motegi for finding time to visit Manila for the first time.
earthquake that devastated parts of For Motegi, it was a “great honor” Mindanao last month. to meet Duterte during his stay in the Philippines. Motegi, who came from Japan’s Tochigi Prefecture, represented Tochigi “The Philippine-Japanese bilateral Fifth District to the Japanese House of relation, he (Motegi) pointed out, has Representatives for nine times. entered a golden age since President Duterte’s election,” Malacañang said. Before his appointment as foreign minister in September 2019, Motegi Motegi likewise told Duterte that served as the Minister of State for he appreciated the President’s Economic and Fiscal Policy, Minister attendance to the Japanese Emperor’s in charge of Social Security Reform enthronement rite in October last year. and Minister in charge of Trans-Pacific Partnership, as well as Japan and the Duterte attended Naruhito’s United States’ trade negotiations in formal enthronement in Japan on Oct. October 2018. 22, 2019, but returned to the Philippines on the same day after feeling He also became Japan’s Minister “unbearable” pain in his lower back. for Human Resources Development and Minister in charge of Economic The Palace said Motegi also Revitalization. condoled with Filipinos who were hit by recent typhoons and the series of Motegi graduated from the powerful earthquakes. Faculty of Economics, the University of Tokyo in March 1978 and completed Motegi expressed heartfelt his Master’s Degree at John F. Kennedy condolences and sympathies to the School of Government, Harvard survivors of the recent typhoon that University in June 1983. (Ruth Abbey hit the central Philippines and the Gita-Carlos/PNA)
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