Caraga InFocus – January 9-15, 2021

Volume V, No. 3 January 9-15, 2021

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REGIONAL NEWS PAGASA WARNS PUBLIC ON FAKE WEATHER SOCIAL MEDIA PAGES, URGES TO RELY ON AGENCY FOR UPDATES SEEKING SELF-IMPROVEMENT AMID THE COMMUNITY QUARANTINE

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APPRECIATING RESILIENCY IN THE MIDST OF STORMS DA-CARAGA DISTRIBUTES CASH, FOOD AID TO MARGINAL FARMERS YOUTHS PURSUE AGRI-RELATED COURSES UNDER ATI’S ‘EASY AGRI PROGRAM’ LGU, BIZ OWNERS UNITE WITH ARMY VS NPA EXTORTION IN BUTUAN MGA STAKEHOLDER SA CARAGA PINARANGALAN SA EPEKTIBONG PAGPAPATUPAD NG RCSP

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APEKTADONG PAMILYA SA TD VICKY MIDAWAT UG AYUDA GIKAN SA GOBYERNO

PROVINCIAL NEWS TYPHOON VICTIMS RECEIVE AID FROM SEN. 23 2,000 GO’S TEAM IN SURSUR GO TO SURIGAONONS: VULNERABLE SECTOR 25 SEN. CAN AVAIL COVID-19 VACCINATION ONCE IT IS

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AVAILABLE

BISLIGANONS VIRTUALLY CELEBRATE CITY’S CENTENNIAL ANNIV KALAHI-CIDSS PROGRAM BENEFIT 47,694 HOUSEHOLDS IN CARAGA OVER 160,000 INDIGENT ELDERS GET SOCIAL PENSION FOR 2020 AGUSAN SUR RELEASES 3.3 MILLION CASH ASSISTANCE FOR INFRA TO 6 TOWNS 6 NPA MEMBERS SURRENDER TO GOV’T DURING CPP-NPA ANNIV MGA RESIDENTE SA BAYAN NG SAN FRANCISCO, AGSUR TUMANGGAP NG REGALO SA BAGONG TAON FORMER REBELS IN AGUSAN DEL NORTE RECEIVE ASSISTANCE FROM PSWDO ACTIVITIES TO ENLIGHTEN VILLAGERS ON NPA TERROR ACTIVITIES CONDUCTED IN AGUSAN DEL NORTE

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ARMY FACILITATES CHRISTENING OF 32 FRS, DEPENDENTS IN AGUSAN DEL NORTE TWO NPA TERRORISTS KILLED IN AGNOR CLASH SOLDIERS SCORE ANEW IN AGUSAN DEL NORTE NEGOSYO GAMIT BUNOT SA CARMEN NAGKAMPYON SA INDIGAY P10 ENVIRONMENTAL FEE ALANG TOURISM RELATED SERVICES GIMANDO SA LGU BUENAVISTA PLANT! PLANT! PLANT! UBOS SA AGUSAN UP ALANG SA TUIG 2021 NANUKAD NA SERBISYO SA AGNOR SA 2021 MOARANGKADA LUYO SA HUGOT PANG PANAGHIUSA SA MGA EMPLEYADO SA KAPITOLYO

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MINDANAO NEWS ICONIC PH EAGLE ‘PAG-ASA’ DIES MINDANAO BAMBOO EXPO 2021 TO PROMOTE BAMBOO PRODUCTS

NATIONAL NEWS

CONTENTS

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INFOCUS

COVER

Caraga

IN CELEBRATION OF 500 YEARS OF VICTORY AT MACTAN, ANDANAR URGES FILIPINOS TO LOOK BACK TO OUR ROOTS AND TELL THE WORLD OUR STORY ANDANAR: GOVERNMENT SEES STRENGTHENED ENGAGEMENT WITH IP GROUPS FOR PEACE AND SECURITY CARAGA REGIONAL DEV’T COUNCIL FORMS SPECIAL BALIK PROBINSYA COMMITTEE - NOGRALES ZERO HUNGER TASK FORCE MARKS FIRST YEAR WITH LAUNCH OF NATIONAL FOOD POLICY PRESIDENT DUTERTE INAUGURATES SKYWAY STAGE 3 PROJECT TRIPARTITE DEAL FOR VACCINES, PROOF OF FILIPINO’S BAYANIHAN SPIRIT - PRRD PRESIDENT DUTERTE BARES MORE DISMISSALS GOV’T MAY START IMMUNIZATION NEXT MONTH, SAYS COUNTRY’S VACCINE CZAR GOV’T ALLOCATES P82.5B FOR COVID-19 MASS IMMUNIZATION PH GOVERNMENT SIGNS AGREEMENT TO SECURE 30M DOSES OF COVOVAX FIVE MORE COUNTRIES ADDED TO LIST OF JURISDICTIONS SUBJECT TO TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS – PALACE

COVID-19 NEWS

VACCINE PROCUREMENT TO BE BASED ON VACCINE EXPERT PANEL ENDORSEMENT - GALVEZ NDRRMC: LGUS MAY PROCURE COVID-19 VACCINE PNP IMPOSES NEW GUIDELINE TO BOOST FIGHT VS. COVID-19

Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin M. Andanar urged the Filipino people to look back to our roots this year by participating in the once-in-a-lifetime and year-round event of the National Quincentennial Committee (NQC), which is the 2021 Quincentennial Commemorations in the Philippines (2021 QCP). With the theme “Victory and Humanity,� this event will commemorate the 500th anniversary of the Philippine part in the first circumnavigation of the world, the Victory at Mactan, and other related events.

- SEC. MARTIN M. ANDANAR

SMALL FARMERS TO BENEFIT FROM EPAHP LOAN PROGRAMS - NOGRALES Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles assured last January 10, 2021 that the Task Force Zero Hunger which he chairs is setting up programs and measures that will help small farmers cope with the effects of the ongoing pandemic, stressing that “this pro-farmer policy is a banner program of the Enhanced Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty (EPAHP) initiative.”

“Our farmers toil everyday to ensure that we have food on our table. It’s but right that we reward their sacrifice and hard work by giving them priority in government assistance during the ongoing health crisis. We will be immediately implementing loan programs to

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the agriculture sector under EPAHP,” the Malacañang official announced.

The Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) has reserved P2 billion for loans meant to support agrarian reform beneficiaries’ organizations (ARBOs) and community based agri organizations in different regions all over the country.

The credit facilities boast ease of processing and low interest rates. The application Caraga INFOCUS

period extends up to December 21, 2022.

The EPAHP program is primarily meant to raise the incomes of members of the agri sector by directly linking farmers to agencies involved in various government feeding programs such as the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology and the Department of Health, thereby assuring beneficiaries both steady market access and regular Caraga INFOCUS

income that would otherwise be difficult under the prevailing Covid-19 situation.

Nograles further explained that “under the Bayanihan 2 Law, we need to allocate P24 billion in direct cash or loan subsidies through the Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Credit Policy Council (DA-ACPC). Coverage includes farm and fisheries enterprises listed in the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA) and agriculture cooperatives. We plan to strengthen and fully roll out the Duterte administration’s Plant, Plant, Plant Program.”

Nograles, the government’s Zero Hunger Czar, emphasized that President Rodrigo Duterte is leaving no sector unserved in his earnest aim to lift the Philippine economy and boost both domestic spending and production.

“Our efforts all lead to eliminating economic hardships by direct assistance to various stakeholders. For the agri sector, we skip the middleman in the purchase of farm and fishery produce, and we grant direct and easy access to capital for those who need it. These are among our priorities for 2021 and beyond,” the former legislator explained.

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News Briefs “Everyone deserves to be protected from COVID-19. Every Filipino deserves to be vaccinated. It is the mandate of our government under the President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to save lives, revive hopes and shape the future for a comfortable life for all Filipinos,” emphasized Director General Ramon Cualoping III of the Philippine Information Agency. xx

Member agencies and local government units comprising the Caraga RTF COVID-19 convene virtually, Jan. 14, for the task force’s 24th Weekly Meeting, with OCD Caraga regional director and task force chair Liza Mazo presiding. To be discussed are the seasonal weather outlook for January 2021 by DOST PAGASA; COVID-19 health updates; update on B117, the new COVID-19 variant; Operational Guidelines on the Management of Returning Residents; and other related matters.

USec. Maria Rosario Vergeire of DOH ensured that no vaccine could enter the country without passing through the regulatory processes.

An emergency meeting called by NTF70, Jan. 14 participated by the representatives from different RTF Clusters of Caraga region discussing the preparation for the RTF13 Levelling and Consultation Session scheduled on Jan. 21, 2021.

REGIONAL NEWS

PAGASA WARNS PUBLIC ON FAKE WEATHER SOCIAL MEDIA PAGES, URGES TO RELY ON AGENCY FOR UPDATES

By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) in Caraga warns the public on fake weather and climate information being disseminated via Facebook by unauthorized agencies, organizations, or individuals.

In a press release issued on Tuesday, January 12, the dissemination of unverified news has caught the attention of the agency and urged the public to source their information from the agency alone.

“PAGASA, as the National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHS) in the Philippines, is the country’s official public weather service provider, and the ‘authoritative voice’ in providing warning for public safety. We urge the public to rely on the weather/climate information from PAGASA alone. Information about weather disturbances such as low pressure areas (LPAs) and tropical cyclones (bagyo) affecting Philippine

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Area of Responsibility (PAR) is issued

by PAGASA ahead of time,” said Ver Lancer Galanida, Chief Meteorological Officer of PAGASA Butuan City.

Galanida said credible and upto-date localized weather disturbance information over Caraga region can be accessed on PAGASA Caraga’s official Facebook pages and accounts: Pagasa Weather for Caraga, https:// www.facebook.com/PAGASAButuan/; Pagasa Dost Butuan, https://www. facebook.com/butuan.pagasa.5; Dost Pagasa Hinatuan, https:// www.facebook.com/pagasadost. hinatuan; and Pagasa Surigao, https://www.facebook.com/PagasaSurigaoDOST-577566015655584/.

Head to PAGASA’s official website, http://bagong.pagasa. dost.gov.ph/, to learn more about tropical cyclone information within the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) and monitoring and possibility forecast in track and direction for the next two weeks. (DMNR/PIA-Caraga) Caraga INFOCUS

SEEKING SELF-IMPROVEMENT AMID THE COMMUNITY QUARANTINE

By Rosabelle S. Cubillas After countless movies and fantasy will be some sort of rest to cover up novels, who would have thought a from all the stress we have been phenomenon like this whole pandemic experiencing lately. I understand our would occur? body refuses to move away from bed

We have been overwhelmed by but I hope we can challenge ourselves plots made by crazy amazing writers to promote self-discipline through little and creators for coming up such unique changes in our lifestyle like this. and scary ideas, but we never imagine If getting enough resting time being in one of those disasters created is your concern, we can start off with by nothing but imagination. sleeping early. Eight hours of sleep will

After the massive outbreak of be guaranteed that way. Set an alarm coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), for the times six to nine o’clock in the flights were banned, big events such morning and slowly try to get up by as festivals and summer vacation are then. canceled, public malls closed down, This simple training will help us and everyone was instructed to stay acquire self-control that we will need indoors. The freedom of going out; to practice our brain to obey to what spending time with friends; going to we want which can be a step towards public places; and laughing freely are being self-disciplined. taken away from us because of it.

Exercise, meditate, and eat healthy

For almost ten months, we did Of course, a change of lifestyle not have the freedom to go out and would not be complete without these have fun under the sun. We turned three. out probably listless within those times.

In order to maintain a healthy Feeling unmotivated with all the bad and fit body, we need exercise. It can news that’s been arising day by day be any form of exercise you would but it is never too late to think about love to do and to what you think will something that we can do to be suit you. Let us try our best to at least productive during this terrible time. give ourselves 30 minutes to one hour

To anyone who is bored, needs for daily exercise for us to enhance and some self-improvement, seeking preserve our body function. for challenge, and wanting to do As much as we should value our something - I have something that may physical fitness, our mental health sure help you! takes a huge toll from our being. With Waking up early that said, we must do our best to make

We all might think that oversleeping sure we get our inner peace to keep Caraga INFOCUS

January 9-15, 2021 |

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ourselves intact. Especially during these times when everything is getting tough.

It enhances self-awareness and helps reduce negativity in our body. It trains us to become better at dealing with stressful situations and how we can manage it. It can also lengthen our attention span and promotes emotional health.

Meditation requires focus and utmost patience. It is a great help when it comes to increasing tolerance and patience. We must consider meditating if we want to achieve a better version of ourselves.

Lastly, eating healthy. Our health is the most important treasure one can ever possess. We must learn to control our junk intake and consider eating healthy foods instead.

A proper diet would be appropriate. Eating with a proper balance to be exact. Lessening unhealthy food intake and eat more vegetables and fruits that contain vitamins that our body needs. We wouldn’t want to get sick right?

With these three, we are one step forward to self-transformation!

Trying new things and spending time with loved ones

While you are at it, better bring out your potentials! Try new hobbies you would like.

May it be playing the guitar or any instrument you would like to play. You can also get a pet. May it be a dog, or a cat. Reading can also be a good hobby. Online e-books or blogs can be searched of now so if you prefer them over books, it is no problem at all.

It helps us widen our knowledge and vocabulary. Gardening is another thing

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APPRECIATING RE MIDST OF

By Rosabelle It has almost been 10 months since the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Indeed, it has caused panic and stress, and negativity has wrapped the many. A lot of lives were lost all over the world because of this happening and we all pray for all of this to end.

We have been visited by natural disasters too such as flood and typhoon that has wrecked homes and lives. We have experienced a lot of hardships during the past months, you can do for past time! You can also teach yourself how to cook. A lot can be done at home more than we think.

Back when everything was normal, most of us spend a lot of time more with friends and in public. Now that we are at home, let us take this chance to create fun memories with our families.

We can do our hobbies with them! Sing karaoke or cook together. Have little chats and all that. We’re always busy with school and work. Using this time to bond together would be nice.

There you go! A list of three things you can do to improve yourself at the same time keep yourself busy and away from boredom. Enough to be productive in the midst of the pandemic that we have no control.

Spend your free time wisely and let us be better versions of ourselves after all this. (DepEd-Butuan City/PIA-Caraga) Caraga INFOCUS

ESILIENCY IN THE F STORMS

e S. Cubillas but despite all of that we still found our ways to appreciate the little things that we should be grateful for.

During these times, we need to strengthen our resiliency. We need to help each other out. Help build positivity to fight off the negativity.

We managed to put up a smile on our faces despite all these negativities surrounding us, but it does not mean we are being ignorant about it. We thank God for He has given us another day to wake up. We appreciate the people who helped us all this time.

At the same time, we pray for our brothers and sisters who are away from their families right now. We ask for comfort to those who lost their loved ones and hoped for the best in their lives as they continue living without them.

We demand an end for their pain and suffering and we are praying for help to the ones who weren’t gifted enough to be sheltered, properly clothed, and away from the pain of hunger.

Aside from prayers, donations are given, and charities were created in order to give them a helping hand amid this storm we are currently in. We will be pulling up those who are down and will try our best to give out help to those in need. We found out about the importance of unity and sympathy.

We also learned how to be gratified. For those months that we have been struggling with all these Caraga INFOCUS

phenomena that have been occurring around us, there are several people we will always be thankful for. They are the people who are doing their best to ensure our safety even if it means risking their lives.

Forever will we be grateful to the healthcare workers who were never hesitant when it comes to giving service to us. Starting from doctors who risked their lives in finding ways to heal as much patient as possible, to the nurses that has sacrificed their time assisting as much patient giving them hope that everything will be better soon, and to all the other front liners that’s been doing their best just to keep us away from the dangers of this virus that’s been surrounding us.

Resiliency is not something we are born with. It is not just given to us.

Just like learning our lessons in school, it also takes time, patience, and effort to obtain it. To be able to see the brighter side of things is not an easy job.

Especially when we’re surrounded and wrapped around with darkness and negativity, seeing the good side of life is almost impossible. If you are able to be resilient, you should be thankful for yourself and appreciate it.

With all these, we have learned a lot. One of the lessons we have grasped is that life goes on. We must move forward, and it would not be possible without everyone’s bravery and resiliency.

It is just right to appreciate each one of us for choosing to take on everyday heads held high. Let us be proud of this. We will get through this together. A better future will come!

(DepEd-Butuan City/PIA-Caraga) January 9-15, 2021 |

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DA-CARAGA DISTRIBUTES CASH, FOOD AID TO MARGINAL FARMERS

By Aurelius P. Arais No one will be left behind.

A word of commitment of the Department of Agriculture in its quest to support the farmers in this time of the pandemic.

According to Melody Guimary, in an interview over BahandisaKaumahan, a DA-Caraga radio program, as of January 4, 2021, around P3.1 million worth of vouchers have been distributed to qualified farmers in Caraga Region for the Cash and Food Subsidy for Marginal Farmers and Fishers (CFSMFF) Program.

“We already had distributed subsidy vouchers to a total of 639 farmers in Caraga Region

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out of 911 recipients endorsed to the central office,” she said.

Another batch is expected to receive the vouchers as soon as they will receive approval from the central office.

The voucher indicating a QR code has an amount of P5,000.00 each divided into P3,000.00 for cash and P2,000.00 for food subsidy.

“Each recipient will present their voucher to the private paying outlet specifically MLhuiller identified by the Development Bank of the Philippines as a program partner. The same voucher will be

presented also for the food subsidy from the supplier identified by the Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD) of DACaraga,” Guimary explained.

The food subsidy includes rice, dressed chicken, and table egg.

She said that the program aims to help the corn farmers who are tilling of not more than 1-hectare farm and a residence from 4th to 6th municipalities or cities and registered in the Registry System for Basic Sector in Agriculture (RSBSA).

She clarified that the respective local government unit will be Caraga INFOCUS

the one to submit the list of qualified farmers and the regional office will endorse the same to the central office for review and approval.

“The recipients will undergo a series of reviews to ensure that they haven’t received any government cash subsidy from other government agencies to prevent duplication,” Guimary explained.

The budget of the program had been included in the Bayanihan Act II to help marginal farmers to recover from the crisis brought about by the pandemic and calamities that hit the country.

“Under the program, Caraga Region has an indicative target of 2,395 recipients or an allocation of P11.9 million,” Guimary added.

Aside from marginal corn farmers, other recipients for CFSMFF are coconut farmers, fishers, and sugarcane planters, and Indigenous People (IPs).

Caraga Region has around 23 classified as 4th to 6th class municipalities and cities. (DA-Caraga/ PIA-Caraga) Caraga INFOCUS

YOUTHS PURSUE AGRI-RELATED COURSES UNDER ATI’S ‘EASY AGRI PROGRAM’

By Kelly Alyza Evign Corcuera

In support to the Department of Agriculture’s (DA’s) advocacy to entice the Filipino youth in leaning towards agriculture, 223 scholars from all over the country were recruited and accepted under the Agricultural Training Institute’s (ATI) newest scholarship program - the Educational Assistance for the Youth: Degree Courses in Agriculture, and Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering or the EAsY Agri Program.

This program is dedicated to children of smallscale farmers and fisherfolk to encourage them in pursuing a professional career in agriculture and fisheries or to venture in agri-entrepreneurship.

The EAsY Agri Program will run from 2020 to 2025 to cover the four-year program for the Bachelor of January 9-15, 2021 |

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Science (BS) in Agriculture and related courses and five-year program for the BS Agriculture and Biosystems Engineering (BS ABE).

To date, a total of 160 scholars have been accepted where 119 will take up BS in Agriculture; 13 for BS AgriBusiness; 11 for Bachelor in Agricultural Technology; 9 for BS Fisheries; four for BS Agro-Forestry; two for BS Forestry; and two for Bachelor of Technology and Livelihood Education in Agri-Fishery Arts.

Meanwhile, 63 grantees are to pursue BS ABE. They are currently enrolled in different state universities and colleges

where a Memorandum of Agreement has been forged through the ATI Regional Training Centers (ATI-RTCs).

To date, the ATI has partnered with 58 state universities and colleges (SUCs) nationwide to ensure the delivery of quality education to all youth scholars.

With the current pandemic situation, the education system is greatly affected causing the late opening of academic year, the earliest of which was August 10, 2020 and the last was last October 16, 2020. From the traditional face-to-face mode of learning, partner SUCs

are on online, applying blended learning courses.

Some setbacks that scholars are experiencing are the unstable internet connection as most of them live in remote areas with very weak signal to participate in their online classes, or no available laptops or tablets.

Despite the limitations, the scholars are committed to do their best as they are closely monitored and guided by the scholarship point persons of the ATI-RTCs.

By the end of the program, the Institute is expecting to produce 223 youth scholar-graduates.

(DA-ATI/PIA-Caraga)

LGU, BIZ OWNERS UNITE WITH ARMY VS NPA EXTORTION IN BUTUAN

By Maj. Francisco Garello, Jr.

The local government unit and business owners in this city expressed their commitment to the Army’s 402nd Infantry Brigade against the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army – National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) extortion activities during the Stakeholders Security

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Forum on Peace and Development held recently at Y-Hotel, Montilla Boulevard, here.

A total of 16 business owners belonging to the Butuan City Chamber of Commerce (BCCC) and Filipino Chinese Chamber of Commerce Association Incorporated (FCCCAI) participated in

the said forum showing their support to finally put a stop to the CPP-NPA Terrorist (CNT) extortion activities in the city.

The forum was aimed to educate the participants on the NPA extortion scheme, embolden the business owners to stop yielding to the CNT’s extortion Caraga INFOCUS

demands and institute efforts to synergize collaboration in ending the CNT extortion activities.

Rey Desiata, the City Administrator of Butuan City; Director Charissa Guerta, CLGOO of Butuan City; Brigadier General Maurito Licudine, 402nd Brigade Commander; Lt. Col. Julius Cesar Paulo Jr, 23IB Commanding Officer; and representatives from Police Regional Office-13 and Butuan City Police Office attended the said event.

It can be recalled that last July 18, 2020, a total of 25 contractors and construction firm owners and security officers, together with the provincial government of Agusan del Norte Caraga INFOCUS

led by Governor Dale Corvera and the 4th Infantry Division led by Major General Andres Centino, also gathered for the same purpose and presented actions to end the communist terrorist group (CTG) extortion activities in the province.

During the presentation on the CTG extortion scheme in the said forum, Captain Daryl Secong, Operations Officer of the 402nd Brigade, bared that an average of P15,000.00 to P20,000.00 have been extorted from various establishments in Butuan City on a monthly basis.

“This is about Php9,380,000 in a year which unfortunately contributed to the growth and sustainment of the strength of the CPP-NPA

Terrorist operating in the area. We appeal for your participation in our effort to drastically decrease, or even stop, the NPA fund generation,” Capt.

Secong urged business owners.

The disclosure of the amount of collected extortion money from business owners in Butuan City and other areas in Agusan del Norte were supported by the revelation of alias ‘Ka Lyn-lyn’ during the forum. She was a former ‘tax collector’ and designated extortionist of Guerilla Front (GF) 21 of the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC) who surrendered to the Police Regional Office 13 sometime on June 2020.

BGen. Licudine January 9-15, 2021 |

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Licudine

underscored that the surrender of alias Lyn-lyn as another fatal blow to the terrorist group resource generation scheme after several of its Finance Officers conducting extortion activities in Agusan del Norte and some parts of Caraga Region were either captured or killed by the joint law enforcement operations of the Philippine Army and the PNP. “The extortion capacitates the NPA to perpetrate atrocities.

From CY 2010 to date, there are 166 government troops have paid the ultimate sacrifice and 113 innocent civilians were mercilessly murdered and violated by the treacherous communist

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terrorists all because someone decided to pay one peso to the NPAs,” BGen. Licudine said.

On October 22, 2020, three revolutionary tax collectors under GF4A were apprehended by the joint elements of 23IB, Magallanes MPS, ADN PIU and ADNPMFC. The apprehended personalities were the resource and fund generating team of GF4A. They received and collected the money extorted by Jelan Pinakilid alias ‘Baking’, Finance Officer, GF-4A, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) thru the use of money transfer (Palawan Pawnshop) several times in Magallanes Municipality.

Meanwhile, the officials of the two business chambers of Butuan City who were present during the forum offered their assurance of support and cooperation not to give in to the threats and intimidations of the CTGs. Likewise, Desiata pledged on behalf of Mayor Ronnie Vicente C Lagnada to continue working with the business owners.

He assured that the LGU-Butuan recognized the pressing problem and shall collaborate with the Philippine Army and PNP to touch base with the establishments that were extorted by the CTG.

“We also urge our colleagues in the Task Force ELCAC and our politicians, to please synergize effort in order for us to prevent NPA extortion activities in the locality. Let us educate companies, business owners and fellow politicians that paying extortion to the NPAs will empower more our common enemy, impede economic growth and will only bring more suffering to our constituents,” Desiata ended. (CMO, 402ndBrigade/PIACaraga) Caraga INFOCUS

MGA STAKEHOLDER SA CARAGA PINARANGALAN SA EPEKTIBONG PAGPAPATUPAD NG RCSP Pinarangalan ng Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Caraga ang mga lokal na pamahalaan sa rehiyon na naging aktibo at epektibo sa paghatid ng basic services sa komunidad lalung-lalo na sa mga malalayong lugar at conflict-affected areas.

Ang Cabadbaran City and tumanggap ng Caraga INFOCUS

By Venus L. Garcia parangal para sa city level at habang ang bayan ng San Miguel sa Surigao del Sur para sa municipal level.

Kabilang naman sa mga finalist ang mga bayan ng Loreto at Rosario ng Agusan del Sur at Gigaquit ng Surigao del Norte.

Kinilala rin ang bayan ng Lianga, Surigao del Sur dahil sa kanilang

Social Protection Program for Indigenous Peoples (IP) children at ilang civil society organization (CSOs) kabilang ang Kitcharao Tricycle Operators Drivers Association sa kanilang kontribusyon.

Maliban sa Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga at iba pang partner agency, ang mga yunit ng January 9-15, 2021 |

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Philippine Army Caraga region ay tumanggap din ng parangal dahil sa mahalagang papel na kanilang ginampanan sa pagbibigay prayoridad at konkretong solusyon upang malutas ang problema ng insurhensiya at terorismo.

“We are thankful for recognizing the efforts of the Philippine Army in Caraga. We are motivated to engage partner stakeholders and commit our endeavors to end this insurgency problem. Your army is always committed to serve the people and to secure our land. And as part of our commitment, we continue to better engage the civilian populace in order to really address the problem on local communist armed conflict dito sa rehiyon,” sabi ni Major Francisco Garello, Jr., civil-military operations (CMO) officer ng 402nd Infantry Brigade.

Ayon naman kay DILG-Caraga assistant regional director Donald Seronay, patuloy nilang paiigtingin ang kanilang kampanya laban sa insurhensiya upang maihatid ang kapayapaan at pagunlad sa lugar.

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“This is our approach of encouraging, motivating, and inspiring the local government units and our partners for the implementation of RCSP-related activities,” ani Seronay.

Ipinaabot naman ni DILG-Caraga regional director Lilibeth Famacion sa mga partner stakeholders ang kanyang pasasalamat dahil sa patuloy na

suporta upang makamit ang hinahangad na tunay na kapayaaan at kaayusan sa komunidad sa pamamagitan ng Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP).

Sa pamamagitan ng RCSP awarding ceremony, layon nitong himukin ang mga LGU at implementing partners na pagbutihin pa lalo ang serbisyo sa mamamayan.

(VLG/PIA-Caraga) Caraga INFOCUS

APEKTADONG PAMILYA SA TD VICKY MIDAWAT UG AYUDA GIKAN SA GOBYERNO Pipila ka ahensya sa gobyerno, uban sa mga lokal nga pangagamhanan ang nagpaabot sa mga ayuda ug serbisyo sa mga apektadong pamilya sa Tropical Depression (TD) Vicky sa mga lugar sa rehiyon sa Caraga.

Isa ang Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) sa mga naghatag ug pasiunang serbisyo sa mga pamilyang apektado sa nahisgutan nga bagyo. Naghatag ang ahensya ug P3,000 pinaagi sa Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) sa mga pamilyang nabahaan.

Gipangunahan ni Caraga INFOCUS

DSWD Undersecretary for Operation Aimee Torrefranca-Neri ug OIC-Regional Director Ramel F. Jamen ang mga kawani sa DSWD sa pagbisita na usab sa mga munisipyo sa rehiyon, partikular ang San Miguel ug Barobo, Surigao del Sur kaniadtong Huwebe, Enero 7, aron ipaabot ang serbisyo ngadto sa katawhan.

Gusto ipahibalo sa ahensya alang sa mga apektadong pamilya nga aduna pa’y assessment sa mga pamilya nga wala pa nahilakip sa kwalipikadong pamilya nga makadawat sa ayuda, hilabi na ang mga pamilya nga

adunay mga panimalay nga partially ug totally damaged.

Alang sa mga lugar nga wala pa nahatagan sa maong ayuda, ang DSWD magpahibalo, pinaagi sa inyong mga local government unit (LGU) sa mga skedyul sa inyong mga lugar.

Ang DSWD kanunay nga makig-koordinar sa mga lokal nga pangagamhanan ug uban pang ahensya aron masuta gayud ang mga apektadong mga indibidwal, pamilya, ug mga komunidad nga angay mahatagan ug serbisyo. (DSWD-13/PIACaraga) January 9-15, 2021 |

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

2,000 TYPHOON VICTIMS RECEIVE AID FROM SEN. GO’S TEAM IN SURSUR Some 2,000 residents of Surigao del Sur received aid from President Rodrigo Duterte distributed by the office of Senator Lawrence Christopher “Kuya Bong” Go team on January 7 and 8.

The residents are victims of landslides and flash floods due to Tropical Depression Vicky, which made its first landfall in Davao Oriental but wreaked havoc in neighbouring areas, including some parts of Caraga region.

On January 7, the outreach team of Senator Go arrived in San Caraga INFOCUS

By Nida Grace P. Barcena Miguel and Barobo towns to provide the assistance.

Senator Go’s presence was expected but due to the inclement weather condition, the said official was not able to visit the two towns. However, he delivered his message via a video call during the distribution.

“Humihingi po ako ng paumanhin sa inyo diyan sa Surigao Sur. Gusto ko talagang pumunta sa inyo at gusto ko talagang Makita kayo ulit at makiramay ngunit hindi kami nakalipad,” said Go as he talk to the people via video call.

The official has assured that the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte is always doing the best for the welfare of the people.

“Ganun pa man, makakaasa po kayo na ginagawa ng gobyerno ang lahat para maiahon kayo mula sa inyong dinaranas.

Magtiwala kayo dahil kapakanan ninyo ang inuuna naming,” Senator Go said.

On January 8, the team has visited the municipalities of Tago and Tagbina to deliver January 9-15, 2021 |

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the same aid.

Apart from representatives from concerned line agencies, attending the event were Provincial Governor Alexander Pimentel and municipal officials of Barobo and San Miguel towns.

Following the health protocols, the team has provided the facemasks and face shields to the attendees that occupied half of the venue capacity in two separate events. The participants were provided with meals, relief goods, and medicine packs with vitamins.

The beneficiaries also received cash assistance worth P3,000 each from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

Representatives from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and Technical Education, Skills, and Development Authority (TESDA), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) also joined the activity and conducted an assessment for the potential beneficiaries for their skills training and livelihood programs while

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| January 9-15, 2021

the national Housing Authority (NHA) assessed beneficiaries for their housing program and possible relocation grants.

The team also conducted a raffle draw.

Some winners received shoes while others received bicycles, which can be used as their mode of transportation for work since mobility remains a problem in most areas. Others also won tablets, which can be used by learners for their classes.

Meanwhile, Senator Go has lauded the local officials of the province as he recognized the invaluable support as they performed their jobs and dedication to

serve their constituents.

In support to their local projects, the budget for the construction of the multi-purpose buildings in Barangay Portlamon, Hinatuan, and Barangay Maglambing in Tagbina will be funded this year through Senator’s Go effort.

On December, the onslaught of Tropical Depression Vicky caused heavy rains devastated the flood-prone areas and landslide occurred, resulting in seven fatalities and one missing, per reports gathered from the local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices (DRRMOs). (DMNR/PIASurigao del Sur) Caraga INFOCUS

SEN. GO TO SURIGAONONS: VULNERABLE SECTOR CAN AVAIL COVID-19 VACCINATION ONCE IT IS AVAILABLE

By Nida Grace P. Barcena During his team’s visit in Surigao del Sur on January 8-9, Senate Committee on Health chairman Senator Lawrence Christopher Go told Surigaonons via video conference call that he will make sure that the poor and vulnerable sectors could avail the vaccine once the vaccine for coronavirus disease 2019 (CoViD-19) is available and approved by the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), which is also an endeavor of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte.

On the given dates, Sen. Go’s team distributed assistance to 2,000 beneficiaries who were badly affected by flash floods and landslides due to Tropical Depression Caraga INFOCUS

Vicky on December 2020.

“Hindi namin kayo pababayaan.

Tayong mga taga-Mindanao, mga Bisaya tayo. Nandito kami ni Pangulong Duterte na taga-Mindanao para sa inyo,” Sen. Go said.

The senator surged those coming from the vulnerable sectors suffering from medical conditions to seek assistance from the Malasakit Center.

According to Sen. Go, the Malasakit Center is a one-stop-shop where the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Health (DOH), PhilHealth, and Philippine Charity Sweepstake Office (PCSO) are housed under

one roof to served those people in need with immediate assistance.

There are 97 Malasakit Centers are operational nationwide, Sen. Go stressed.

“Target nito ang zero-balance-billing.

Tutulungan kayo at plano na rin namin na maglagay dyan sa inyong probinsya sa Surigao del Sur pagdating ng katapusan ng buwan,” Sen. Go noted.

Sen. Go also offered his assistance to Surigaonons who will need major medical operations, such as heart surgery, and said that his office is always open to provide help. (DMNR/ PIA-Surigao del Sur) January 9-15, 2021 |

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BISLIGANONS VIRTUALLY CELEBRATE CITY’S CENTENNIAL ANNIV

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

The Bisliganons commemorated the centennial years of the city in time of the New Year’s day through a virtual program and showed that the pandemic was not a hindrance for them.

The celebration was anchored on its theme: “Celebrating life and heritage with thanksgiving,” as they wanted to be reflected in the new generations.

In a video presentation, the origin of the people, the treasure of its heritage and richness of their culture, the tradition, and

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| January 9-15, 2021

the natural resources were highlighted, and elaborated, to recall how the city of Bislig begun, struggled during the darkest hour, and how the community slowly rise again to present situation.

According to Mayor Garay, Bislig was inaugurated on January 1, 1921, as the new municipality, after separated from its mother municipality of Hinatuan.

“Founded on December 28, 1920, by virtue of Executive Order No. 62 issued by GovernorGeneral Francis Burton Harrison with the late

Primitivo Castillo as the first Municipal President,” Mayor Garay said.

Garay added, that on January 1, 1921, the inauguration of the new municipality of Bislig was celebrated.

In July 2000, another milestone in the life of the municipality of Bislig was uncovered by its conversion into a component city. By virtue of Republic Act 8804, it was unanimously approved by the people in a plebiscite on September 18, 2000.

The biggest paper industry in the nation Caraga INFOCUS

as well as in South Asia known as Paper Industries Corporation of the Philippines (PICOP) was the source of livelihood of most people in the area, established in 1963.

The productive years of its operations through the years had significantly contributed to the development of the socioeconomic conditions of the municipality of Bislig.

In 2006, the local economy of Bislig City has affected as PICOP now PRI Resource Incorporated (PRI) operations shutdown. It was a great loss to the community as the problem of unemployment surfaced.

Bisliganon’s by nature stood up, according to Mayor Garay, to resolve and confront the problems by pursuing some recovery measures like programs, projects, and activities that from time-to-time regain the economic statute of the city.

Second District Representative Johnny Pimentel, in his message, said that the implementation of several projects and programs of the local executives who held the position through the years were able to Caraga INFOCUS

Cong. Johnny Pimentel

Gov. Alexander Pimentel

recover from the darkest hour.

Rep. Pimentel has also done his part, to help Bislig City to rise again as he became a representative of the 2nd District of this province. He helped in the allocation of almost P7 Billion worth of infrastructure projects intended for the economic growth of Bislig City. While another 2B projects will soon be implemented for 2021.

“We hope to invite investors, and we hope that economic progress will come into our district,” said Rep. Pimentel.

Governor Alexander Pimentel has also extended his greetings to the local officials and people of Bislig via phone patch as they celebrated its 100 years.

“Despite the ongoing crisis brought bout by the COVID-19 pandemic, you remain steadfast and committed towards achieving prosperity and development in your city… Happy Centennial Anniversary,” said Gov. Pimentel.

Meanwhile, the “Sindac Anib” of Andres Soriano Colleges of Bislig added the colors to the celebrations as they showcased their talents through a video presentation. The Sindac Anib won in a Kadayawan Festival, Indak-indak sa Kadalanan sa Davao City, and proclaimed as 2nd place during the Bonok-bonok Maradjaw Karadjaw Festival in Surigao City. (DMNR/PIASurigao del Sur) January 9-15, 2021 |

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KALAHI-CIDSS PROGRAM BENEFIT 47,694 HOUSEHOLDS IN CARAGA A total of 47,694 households in Caraga region have benefitted from the disaster response community subprojects implemented by the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Kalahi Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (CIDSS) program in 2020.

Kalahi-CIDSS is one of the poverty alleviation programs of the government being implemented by the DSWD. The 202 subprojects under the National CommunityDriven Development Program (NCDDP) are

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implemented in 10 towns across the region, namely the local government units (LGUs) of Tagana-an, Placer, Malimono, and San Francisco in Surigao del Norte province; Dinagat, San Jose, and Basilisa in the province of Dinagat Islands; and in Madrid, Bayabas, and Barobo in Surigao del Sur province.

A total of 7,165 household beneficiaries in Tagana-an were served; 6,695 in Placer; 4,521 in Malimono; 3,532 in San Francisco; 1,789 in Dinagat; 2,535 in San Jose; 4,056 in Basilisa; 4,356 in Madrid; 2,559 in Bayabas; and 10,486 in Barobo.

Due to the coronavirus disease 2019

(COVID-19) pandemic, Kalahi-CIDSS has adopted the Disaster Response Operation Procedure (DROP), allowing the program to shift from developmental activities into a disaster-response modality to immediately address health issues.

Some of the projects implemented under DROP are installation of quarantine facility, cash-for-work, procurement of disaster response equipment and communication devices, construction of communal hand wash facilities and sanitary toilets, installation of water system, among others. (DSWD Caraga/ PIA-Surigao del Norte) Caraga INFOCUS

OVER 160,000 INDIGENT ELDERS GET SOCIAL PENSION FOR 2020 The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga has served 168,163 qualified social pension beneficiaries for 2020 amid the threats and challenges brought about by the dreadful coronavirus pandemic.

The Field Office has disbursed P983,223,000 as of December 29, 2020 and distributed to 37,879 senior citizens in Agusan del Norte; 42, 897 in Agusan del Sur; 42,215 in Surigao del Sur; 33, 348 in Surigao del Norte; and 11,824 in the province of Dinagat Islands.

For 2020 the agency has a target of 170,000 beneficiaries. About 3,957 individuals were disqualified after having been found to be deceased; have transferred of residency or beneficiary has not been located; already has pension; or received family support, etc.

Caraga INFOCUS

DSWD Caraga assured adherence to safety and health protocols during the conduct of the payouts to lessen the exposure of the beneficiaries and personnel to the coronavirus disease.

The Social Pension Program is a government assistance of P500.00 monthly stipend distributed per semester, amounting to P3,000 for the first semester (January-June) and another P3,000 for the second semester (JulyDecember) which will be distributed in the municipality/city on a specific date scheduled by DSWD in coordination with the local government unit.

Furthermore, qualified senior citizens in this program are those 60 years old and above who are; frail, sickly or with disability, no regular pension from government (Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), Social Security System (SSS), Phil. Veterans Affairs (PVAO), Armed Forces and Police Mutual Benefit Association, Inc.), no permanent source of income, and no regular support from the family or relatives. (DSWD-Caraga/PIA-Surigao del Norte) January 9-15, 2021 |

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AGUSAN SUR RELEASES 3.3 MILLION CASH ASSISTANCE FOR INFRA TO 6 TOWNS Agusan del Sur Governor Santiago Cane Jr., handed-over some P3.3million cash assistance to fund various infrastructure projects of six municipalities in the province.

La Paz Mayor Michael Lim personally received a cheque worth P1-million to fund the construction of the town’s potable water system level II, which according to Mayor Lim, is badly needed by his constituents considering the scarcity of potable water in the municipality.

Another P1-million was released to the municipality of Bunawan to fund the embankment of senior high school ground of Libertad National High School being vulnerable to landslide specially during rainy season.

For the municipality of Talacogon, Barangay Captain Gloria Otaza of Barangay Causwagan received the cheque amounting to P500,000.00 to fund the construction

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of the barangay’s multi-purpose building (phase 2) that is also utilized as store room for farmers’ products in case of calamity. For San Francisco town, a cheque worth P200,000.00 was also handed-over to Barangay Captain Robert Lamatao of Barangay Buenasuerte to fund the completion of the covered court which serves as stock area during calamity.

Barangay Captain Daniel Gomez of Barangay Poblacion, San Luis also received the P200,000.00 worth of cheque intended for the construction of the barangay’s multipurpose building which is also used as storage of the barangay’s farm products during rough times.

The municipality of Prosperidad particularly Barangays San Joaquin and Sta. Maria, received a total of P411,000.00 to fund the construction of the multi-purpose

building of Barangay San Joaquin worth P300,000.00 and the construction of school mirrored signage of Sta. Maria worth P111,000.00.

According to reports from the Governor’s Office, the funds were taken from the 20 percent Provincial Development Fund, Special Education Fund and the General Fund of the provincial government.

“This is the Provincial Government’s response as assistance to the requests of our mayors and barangay captains that we prioritize because we know they badly need these projects to be completed. We all know that recently, our province, especially those located in lowlaying areas, suffered floods, and they need temporary shelter to secure their products,” Gov. Cane said. (DMS with reports from Nonoy Grado/PIA-Agusan del Sur) Caraga INFOCUS

6 NPA MEMBERS SURRENDER TO GOV’T DURING CPP-NPA ANNIV By 2Lt. Cecille Tappa Six members of the New People’s Army (NPA) voluntarily surrendered to the 26th Infantry Battalion (26IB), Philippine Army during the 52nd founding anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) on Dec. 26, 2020.

The surrenderees were identified as alias ‘Eking’ from Brgy. Balit, alias ‘Nel’ and alias ‘Juan’ from Brgy. Binicalan, all of San Luis, Agusan del Sur; alias ‘Paying’ from Brgy. Lydia, alias ‘Ebo’ Caraga INFOCUS

and alias ‘Nadel’ from Brgy. Angeles, all of La Paz, Agusan del Sur. They were all Militia ng Bayan (MB) members of the Guerilla Front 88 of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) operating in San Luis and some parts of Talacogon and La Paz, ADS.

“Taphaw ug haw-ang ang kalipay nga among nasinati sa nilabay nga pasko tungod kay anaa ang kakulba ug kaguol nga

basin kami masikop sa mga awtoridad nga tungod kay kami mga member man sa NPA isip MB, ug karun nag surrender mi aron mahimong bulawanon ang masadya ang among mga mahal sa kinabuhi sa pag sugat sa bag-ong tuig ug makasugod na usab kami ug malinawon nga kinabuhi uban among pamilya. Gikapoy na kami sa among mga gibuhaton isip usa sa mga teroristang NPA tungod January 9-15, 2021 |

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ky wala kini gikatabang kanamu (We were not really happy when we were still in the movement because of fear that we might get caught by the authorities considering that we are members of the NPA. Now that we surrendered, we hoped to have a peaceful and meaningful life especially this new year, where we could spend enough time with the family. We already got tired of the life we used to have when we were still in the terrorist NPA group),” alias Nel said.

With the intent to fully surrender to the government, they peacefully laid down six firearms composed of one M16 rifle, one carbine rifle, two caliber 38 revolver, two caliber 45 pistol, one KG9, four

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magazines, assorted live ammunition and NPA flag.

As part of the Barangay Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (BTFELCAC), the empowered Brgy. Officials of Brgy. Balit, San Luis town headed by punong barangay Elisa P. Gaud, accompanied the surrenderees going to the 26IB headquarters as a way of showing their efforts in ending insurgency and peacebuilding initiatives at the barangay level.

The 26IB under the command of Lt. Col. Reynald Romel A. Goce, is on high alert through increased patrols, checkpoints, and strengthened security in its area of operations to prevent the NPA’s threat of violence during its

anniversary. “We have deployed our troops for an intensified military operations, we will not allow these terrorists to mark their anniversary with any atrocities,” he said.

“These surrenderees have already realized the futility of their armed struggle, welcome back to the fold of the law. The continuous surrender only means that the CPP-NPA is weakening and the AFP will continue its duty in ending the conflict.

The government, thru the efforts of the NTF-ELCAC, is winning the war against these terrorists and there will be no more anniversaries for them,” Lt. Col. Goce added.

The unit of 26IB has conducted custodial debriefing to the surrenderees who were also processed for enrollment in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) benefits, a government program that aims to help the rebel members of CPP-NPANDF and MB to restore their allegiance to the Philippine government.

(Acting CMO, 26IB/PIAAgusan del Sur) Caraga INFOCUS

MGA RESIDENTE SA BAYAN NG SAN FRANCISCO, AGSUR TUMANGGAP NG REGALO SA BAGONG TAON Nagsanib pwersa ang mga kawani mula sa Philippine National Police (PNP), Ladies Club Caraga, Agusan Media Club, at lokal na pamahalaan sa bayan ng San Francisco sa Agusan del Sur para sa isang gift-giving at tulungan ang mga padyak drivers at residente ng iba’t-ibang barangay na naapektuhan ng bagyong na nagdulot ng pagbaha sa lugar.

Bawat pamilya sa Purok 1-A, Barangay 1 sa nasabing bayan ay tumanggap ng food at relief packs mula sa nasabing grupo.

“Magpasalamat tayo na mga taga Purok 1-A dahil isa tayo sa mga napili na mabigyan ng Caraga INFOCUS

By Jennifer P. Gaitano pamaskong handog.

Maraming salamat sa lahat ng sponsor,” ani ni John Ananoria, punong barangay.

Binigyang-diin ni Richard Grande, president ng Agusan Media Club ang kahalagahan ng pagkakaisa at pagtutulungan ng mga Caraganons. “I-extend po natin ang diwa ng pagbibigayan, huwag nating isipin kung gaano karami o kalaki ang ating ibinigay kung hindi ang diwa sa ating pagiging mapagbigay sa kapwa,” banggit niya.

Nakibahagi rin ang Aliwan Fiesta Digital Queen 2020 na si Jannarie Zarzoso sa nasabing giftgiving at pinuri nito ang

pagkakaisa ng bawat sektor na tumulong sa mga nangangailangan.

S a m a n t a l a , tumanggap din ng relief goods ang may 25 padyak drivers sa barangay 2 ng San Francisco.

Ayon kay PNPAgusan del Sur Provincial Director, Police Colonel Ringo Zarzoso, patuloy nila itong gagawin sa iba’t-ibang barangay upang marami ring matulungan lalo na sa mga sektor na lubhang naapektuhan ngayong pandemya. Nanawagan din sya sa lahat na sundin ang health protocols upang masugpo ang pagtaas ng kaso ng coronavirus disease (COVID-19) sa rehiyon.

(JPG/PIA-Agusan del Sur) January 9-15, 2021 |

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FORMER REBELS IN AGUSAN DEL NORTE RECEIVE ASSISTANCE FROM PSWDO By 1Lt. Roel T. Maglalang Former rebels (FRs) who are staying at the halfway house inside the headquarters of the 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion (23IB), Philippine Army recently received assistance from the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) of Agusan del Norte. The distribution was held at the headquarters of the 23rd IB in Jamboree Site, Purok 6, Barangay Alubihid, Buenavista. The FRs received one sack of rice, food packs containing assorted canned goods, noodles, coffee, and other basic needs.

The distribution activity served as gift-giving by the PSWDO and the 23rd IB troopers, especially during the Christmas season. The FRs were thankful for the graces they received, saying that their Christmas was already complete and full of joy.

Alias Benon was glad upon receiving his gift, saying that the government has made his family happy this yuletide season.

Silver Joy Tejano, PSWDO Provincial Director, gave an inspirational message to the FRs during the distribution activity. “We are always happy to present simple assistance to you especially in this season of giving.

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E-CLIP was designed to help the former rebels who left the armed struggle and it was created in order to help the FRs to start living normally. We hope that all the assistance you’ve received will help you begin your new journey.

May you help our government to end insurgency so that everyone will be given a chance to reach their dreams and ambitions,” Tejano said.

Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, the Commanding Officer of 23IB, was so glad that the FRs’ lives were transformed.

“Christmas is the perfect opportunity to reach distressed people.

As these FRs here were always receiving assistance from the government, we also want to disseminate the good news to their former comrades so that they might as well be motivated to leave the armed movement and go back to the folds of the law in order to benefit all the assistance provided under the E-CLIP. Before this year ends, the greatest gift that the remnants of the CTGs to give to themselves is a peaceful and life. Lay down their arms now and experience the joy of being with your family,” Paulo said. (CMO Officer, 23IB PA/PIA Agusan del Norte) Caraga INFOCUS

ACTIVITIES TO ENLIGHTEN VILLAGERS ON NPA TERROR ACTIVITIES CONDUCTED IN AGUSAN DEL NORTE By 1Lt. Roel T. Maglalang The troopers of the 23rd Infantry “Masigasig” Battalion (23IB), Philippine Army in coordination with the local government unit (LGU) of Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte and the Philippine National Police (PNP) conducted series of consultations and dialogues to provide enlightenment to the residents in the area on the realities of the terroristic acts being done by the communist New People’s Army (NPA).

The series of consultations and dialogues were Caraga INFOCUS

conducted in the month of December 2020 in the six communities of Las Nieves town. The activity was supported by the respective barangay councils of said communities and the group of former rebels (FRs) who now support the different initiatives of the government.

The series of activities were designed to address the issues and concerns of residents, particularly on the peace and order situation, the presence of NPA, livelihood, and the plans and programs of

the government to bring more developments in the area.

During the activities, the FRs shared their past experiences, especially the hardships they had gone through while they were still part of the communist movement.

Alias Reyman encouraged the residents to be united against the NPA terrorists by denying them entry into communities.

During the series of activities, the residents themselves admitted of providing support to the January 9-15, 2021 |

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NPAs due to fear and intimidation. They said the NPAs usually terrorize residents whenever they are in the community and forcefully submitting the residents to their wills and demands for money, rice, and other necessities.

The barangay officials from the different villages also urged their constituents to support the development initiatives of the government to bring peace and developments in the communities.

One of the barangay officials said that each resident is aware of their roles and responsibilities in promoting peace and development in their respective communities in relation to the implementation of Executive Order 70 (EO70) or the Whole-of-Nation Approach to end the local communist armed conflict. The barangay officials also expressed

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gratitude to the 23rd IB and the LGU of Las Nieves for the continuing protection they provide to the communities.

Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, the commander of 23rd IB lauded the participation of the different barangay councils of Las Nieves that made the activities successful.

“Your participation in our activities manifested your true intention of freeing and saving your barangays from the influence of the Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs),” Paulo said.

He also asked the villagers of Las Nieves to cut their ties with the CNTs and work with the government to address the peace and security concerns in their barangays.

“The absence of cooperation and unity among us has worsened the problem of insurgency.

Let us work together to support all government initiatives and facilitate the delivery of programs, projects and services in your communities. Help us by simply providing timely and accurate information on the CNT presence so that we can protect you against their threats. Winning the war against insurgency can only be achieved through combined efforts of the barangay residents and the line agencies of the government,” Paulo said.

With the implementation of EO70, Paulo said government services can now easily be implemented even in the remotest villages of Las Nieves and in the province of Agusan del Norte.

He also reiterated his call to the remaining CNTs in the area to surrender peacefully to the government.

“I urge you to abandon the CNT movement, reject its false ideology, lay down your arms and the government will help you as you go on another journey towards the right path of life,” Paulo said. (CMO Officer, 23IB PA/PIA Agusan del Norte) Caraga INFOCUS

ARMY FACILITATES CHRISTENING OF 32 FRS, DEPENDENTS IN AGUSAN DEL NORTE The 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion (23IB), Philippine Army in partnership with the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) of Agusan del Norte recently facilitated the baptism of 32 former rebels (FRs) and their children during a Thanksgiving Mass conducted in the unit’s headquarters at Jamboree Site, Purok 6, Barangay Alubihid, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.

The baptism was officiated by Rev. Fr. Jhonny Villanueva, the assistant parish priest of Saint James the Great Parish in Buenavista.

Among the FRs who received the sacrament of baptism was Alias Osang, 39, a mother Caraga INFOCUS

of seven children. She was thankful to the 23rd IB and the PSWDO of Agusan del Norte for facilitating the baptismal rite, saying that it was a way of renewing her commitment to become a productive member of their community and continue to serve the government.

One of the godparents of the newlybaptized FRs and their children is 2nd District Representative of Agusan del Norte Ma. Angelica Rosedell Amante-Matba, represented by Nita Racho who stood as witness to the baptism rite.

Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, Commanding Officer, 23IB, congratulated everyone for doing their best to

start their new lives.

“As we always hear that men cannot stand by bread alone, we also need to feed ourselves with the words of God and follow his commandments.

We are all sinners but we are saved by the grace of God,” Paulo said in a message during the baptismal rite.

“I am so proud to see not only the kids but also these adults or parents who’ve been helping themselves to build an intimate relationship with God. May you seek wisdom every day in order for you to follow the right path in all your undertakings,” he added. (CMO Officer, 23IB PA/PIA Agusan del Norte) January 9-15, 2021 |

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TWO NPA TERRORISTS KILLED IN AGNOR CLASH

By Cpt. Joash U. Pramis The remains of the New People’s Army (NPA) terrorists who were killed in the recent encounter between the 29th Infantry Battalion (29IB), PhilippineArmy and communist NPA terrorists (CNTs) in Jabonga town were positively identified and claimed by their respective families on Wednesday, December 30.

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The dead bodies were identified by their kins as Marife Mercansel Montero @Owen, 23, single, and a resident of Purok Pangasian, Unaban, Tago, Surigao del Sur while the other male cadaver was identified as Regie Mae Ochavillo @Thunder, 20, single and a resident of Purok 8, Del Pilar, Cabadbaran City.

In the investigation

conducted, it was found out that Marife was recruited to join the CNTs sometime in 2018. She was a second-year college student taking up Political Science at St. Theresa College in Tandag City.

According to Annabelle, an older sister of Marife, all they know was her sister is doing well in her studies but unknowingly she got involved in the Caraga INFOCUS

underground movement with the CNTs.

On the other hand, Regie’s body was claimed by his grandfather.

Accordingly, he stayed with his grandparents prior to his involvement with the armed movement sometime in October 2019. In his stint with the armed group, he was identified as a regular member of SYP16A of Guerilla Front 16 operating in the towns of Kitcharao-JabongaSantiago-Tubay.

In his statement, Lolo Nerio Ochavillo, expressed his heartfelt thanks to the soldiers who assisted them in claiming the remains of his grandson.

Meanwhile, Col. George L Banzon, Commander of 901st Infantry (Fight ‘Em) Brigade, strongly condemned the CNTs for their longstanding deceptions and exploitations on the students and youth to advance their hidden agenda. He added that the CNTs are using lies and propaganda to entice the youth to join their violent movement.

“We strongly denounced the CNTs Caraga INFOCUS

for the unfortunate demise of two young individuals. Just like the other members of NPA who went astray with the communist terrorist group, they were victims who fell in the CNT’s modus. Their recruiters brain-washed and radicalized them using propaganda on societal issues with the intent of agitating their youthful minds, arousing their emotions and building hatred in their hearts. These youngsters took arms and went against the government because of CNT’s exploitations,” he said.

Along this line, he also reminded the public to be mindful of

their children who are vulnerable and target of CNT’s recruitment. He further explained that the CNTs are aiming at the youth because they need to fill the dwindling numbers of their cadres and members in order to sustain their armed struggle.

The 29th Infantry (Matatag) Batallion in coordination with the local government unit of Jabonga facilitated the turnover of the remains of the dead NPA members to their respective families so that they will be accorded with a decent burial. (CMO Officer, 901 Infantry Brigade/PIA Agusan del Norte) January 9-15, 2021 |

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SOLDIERS SCORE ANEW IN AGUSAN DEL NORTE The 29th Infantry (Matatag) Battalion (29IB), Philippine Army scored anew after a firefight ensued between soldiers and communist NPA terrorists (CNTs) in Sitio Tinago, Barangay Baleguian, Jabonga, Agusan del Norte recently.

According to a report of 29IB under Lt. Col. Aristotle Antonio, the unit launched an operation in response to the information provided by displeased civilians regarding the presence

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| January 9-15, 2021

of more or less 15 armed CNTs who were seen staging a celebration of the Communist Party of the Philippines founding anniversary a day before the said clash transpired.

The said group was believed to be under Marvin Bugas @ Eman of SYP16A, Guerilla Front 16.

The said encounter lasted for almost an hour and resulted in the death of two NPA members (1 male and 1 female) and seizure of two AK47 rifles, assorted magazines with live ammunition,

one cellphone, personal belongings and subversive documents with high intelligence value.

In his statement, Mayor Napoleon M. Montero of Jabonga said the local government unit fully understands that the incident was a result of a legitimate military operation conducted by the government forces in their area. He further cited that Barangay Baleguian was among the identified conflict-affected areas in the province and one Caraga INFOCUS

of the recipients of the Retooled Community Support Program with the objective of ending the local communist armed conflict.

He also added that the local government will do its part to support the Philippine Army and all the involved government agencies and instrumentalities in ending the insurgency problem to finally bring peace and development in their area.

Meanwhile, Col. George L. Banzon, Commander of 901st Infantry (Fight’Em) Brigade, said that the encounter was a product of the continuing efforts and proactive measures being implemented by the unit to deny the communist terrorists from conducting atrocities while the communities are in observance of yuletide season.

“We intensified our monitoring and operations during these holidays to ensure that these communist terrorists will not have the opportunity to unleash violence to highlight CPP’s anniversary which they usually practice in the past years,” the Caraga INFOCUS

commander said.

He further said that the intensified operation will continue particularly in the areas where the armed CNTs are frequently sighted in order to keep them away from their traditional guerilla bases and be isolated from their former masses. He further said that with the convergence of different sectors and cooperation being extended by the civilians, the CNTs are now losing ground and running out of space.

“The recent encounter may serve as stern warning for the remaining members of

the CNTs that there’s no more safe place for them.

The people nowadays are aware of their deceitful tactics and they are already cooperative in our peace efforts.

The CNTs’ remaining option is to surrender and abandoned the armed struggle,” he added.

On the other hand, Col. Banzon expressed condolences to the families of the CNT casualties citing that they were just victims of CNT’s deceptions and lies. (By Cpt. Joash U. Pramis, CMO Officer, 901 Infantry Brigade/PIA Agusan del Norte) January 9-15, 2021 |

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NEGOSYO GAMIT BUNOT SA CARMEN NAGKAMPYON SA INDIGAY

By Angel Lyn F. Gaviola Nakuha sa Manoligao Pag-asa Youth Club sa lungsod sa Carmen, Agusan del Norte ang grand prize sa final pitching round sa TuoNegosyo Business Plan Making Contest, baguhay pa lamang.

Unom ka mga contenders ang mipresentar sa ilang tagsa-tagsa ka business plan alang sa Shark Tank Pitching kon final round sa maong indigay gikan sa 10 nga apil sa maong indigay pagsugod niini niadtong Septyembre.

Mipailawom sila sa init nga question and answer portion sa lima ka myembro sa mga hurado human sa matag presentasyon.

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| January 9-15, 2021

Ang Coco Husk nga proyekto sa Manoligao Pag-asa Youth Club maoy midaog sa indigay subay sa solidong presentasyon sa grupo kalabot niini.

Ang produkto gama lamang gikan sa bunot sa lubi nga gipauga ug giinobar aron mahimong uling, foot mat, ug uban pang produkto nga usa sa gamitonon sa mga beach resorts, apil na ang mga floating cottages, ug restaurants.

Samtang nakuha ang second place sa Shecore Delectables sa Cabadbaran City nga nakatutok sa pagama og banana jam.

Ang Bunot Ph sa Kitcharao nga naglantaw nga ang paggama og

organikong abuno ang himoong negosyo ang nakakuha sa third place.

Sa iyang mensahe, gidasig ni Gobernador Dale B. Corvera nga palamboon ang giplanohan nilang mga negosyo gamit ang mga premyo nga ilang nadawat isip inisyal nga puhonan ug andam ang probinsya pagpadangat og dugang suporta kung magmatinud-aon sila sa ilang negosyo ug mapalambo kini nila.

Gihagit usab sa gobernador ang mga batan-on nga ipakaylap ang ilang kahibalo nga nakuha gikan sa mga mentors sa upat ka bulan nga indigay.

“Ako nagtuo nga dili Caraga INFOCUS

lang kini ang katapusan.

In fact this is the beginning sa tanang kalihukan nga atong buhaton aron gyod motubo ang gitisok nga liso sa interes sa pagnegosyo sa atong kabatan-onan. I hope nga kining premyo nga inyong madawat dili ilingaw-lingaw instead inyo ning himoon nga capital nga gamay sa inyong negosyo,� sigon ni Gob. Corvera.

Dugang pa niya nga “Dili lang ang atong tagaan og training kadto lang mga edaran kondili labaw sa tanan ang mga kabatan-onan kay sa kalinghod sa ilang mga panuigon mahimo kini silang lig-on nga haligi unya kung maensakto nato pagmatuto samtang mga batanon pa sila,� sumala sa gobernador.

Padayon usab nga gi-engganyo sa gobernador ang kabatan-onan nga dili moundang sa pagnegosyo tungod kay sa maong paagi moasenso ang panginabuhi sa matag usa.

Ang grand prize winner nakadawat og cash prize nga P50,000; P30,000 sa second prize; Caraga INFOCUS

P20,000 sa third prize samtang tag P5,000 sa mga consolation prize winners.

Sa iyang bahin, mapasalamaton si Brenda B. Corvera, ang Provincial Director sa Department of Trade and Industry (DTI-AdN), sa probinsyal nga panggamhanan sa Agusan del Norte sa pagpasiugda niini sa TuoNegosyo.

Gipaabot usab ni DTI Regional Director Edwin Banquerigo sa mga young entrepreneurs nga hinumduman ang upat ka konsepto alang sa malampusong pagnegosyo nga gilangkoban sa c o m p e t e n c e , confidence, critical thinking, ug creative innovation.

Ang TuoNegosyo, sumala pa sa mga gihimong pagpasabot ni Gob. Corvera, naay tulo ka tuyo. Una mao nga ang

kabatan-onan motuo sa importansya sa negosyo diha sa atong pagpuyo.

Ang ikaduha mao nga dili lang sila motuo kon dili tun-an kini nila. Ug ang ikatulo mao nga human sa pagtuon abagan nato sila nga mapatuman ang ilang gitun-ang negosyo pinaagi sa paghatag og seed fund sa mogawas nga mananaug isip premyo.

Gipadagan ang indigay sa TuoNegosyo sa probinsya pinaagi sa AGUSAN UP! kaabag ang probinysal nga buhatan sa DTI ubos sa Youth Entrepreneurship Project (YEP) niini.

Ang AGUSAN UP! mao ang kampanya sa pagpalambo sa Agusan del Norte ubos sa administrasyon ni Gob. Corvera inabagan sa buhatan ni Rep. Angel Amante-Matba. (Agusan Up, Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte) January 9-15, 2021 |

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P10 ENVIRONMENTAL FEE ALANG TOURISM RELATED SERVICES GIMANDO SA LGU BUENAVISTA Gideklara sa S a n g g u n i a n g Panlalawigan sa Agusan del Norte nga balido ang Municipal Ordinance No. 19-2020 nga gikan sa lungsod sa Buenavista ning lalawigan nga nagpataw sa Environmental fee sa kantidad nga ten pesos (P10) sa bisan kinsa nga mogamit sa mga serbisyo nga adunay kalabotan sa turismo sa sulod sa munisipyo.

Ang patakaran nga gihimo sa lungsod aron mapadali ang kita alang sa pagpatuman sa programa kabahin sa pagdumala sa basura nga nagpasiugda sa pagpatunhay, pagpahiuli o pagpaayo sa maayong palibot o kinaiyahan, tungod sa nagkadaghan na ang negosyo nga mga tourist establishment sa maong munisipyo nga dayuhon sa mga tawo sa silingan nga mga lugar nga maoy usa sa mga hinungdan sa daghan basura nga

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| January 9-15, 2021

By Prisilina P. Amoroso maoy makadaot sa kinaiyahan.

Ang katuyoan sa maong ordinansa, nga gipangamahanan ni Sangguniang Bayan Roel T. Arobo, mao ang responsable nga pagkolekta sa basura sa kabarangayan nga gikan sa mga establisemento nga adunay kalabutan sa turismo nga naglihok diha sulod sa ilang jurisdiction.

Gisiguro sa munisipyo nga ang mga naipon nga koleksyon kinahanglan nga bahinon, singkwenta porsento (50%) para sa munisipyo ug singkwenta porsento (50%) usab sa barangay.

Bisan kinsa nga nanag-iya sa tourist atttraction nga nakitan nga nakalapas sa maong ordinansa pinaagi sa pagdumili sa pagkolekta sa bayranan sa Environmental fee nga mibisita niini pagasilotan sama sa mosunud:

Unang paglapas

- P 1,000.00 I k a d u h a n g paglapas - P 2,000.00

Ug ang ikatulong paglapas ug sunodsunod nga paglapas silotan sa kantidad nga P2,500.00 ug pagkansela sa Mayor’s permit.

Ang ordinansa sa lungsod nga-ingon nga kinsa nga tawo ang nag-abang sa usa ka apartment, lodging house, apartelle, ug uban pa, nga nagpuyo lampas sa isa ka bulan ug anaay mga anak nga ubos sa ten (10) years old, exempted sa bayranan nga environmental fee.

Ang Municipal Ordinance gideklara nga balido pinasikad sa Sanggunian Resolution No. 002-2021 sa pagpaningkamot sa Committee on Ways and Means diin tsirman si Bokal Francisco Y. Chan, Jr. atol sa ilang sesyon regular niadtong Enero 5 niining tuiga. (LGU Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte) Caraga INFOCUS

PLANT! PLANT! PLANT! UBOS SA AGUSAN UP ALANG SA TUIG 2021 NANUKAD NA Nanukad ang probinsya sa Agusan del Norte pinaagi sa Team Plant!

Plant!

Plant!

(Team Plant3) sa AGUSAN UP! sa inisyal nga lakang aron makatanum sa siyam ka priority crops sa gipunting nga 3,000 ektaryas sa tuig 2021.

Gihatud sa Team Plant3 ganihang buntag ang inisyal nga 1,000 ka seedling sa abaka alang sa mga mag-uuma ug mga sakop sa Indigenous Peoples (IP) nga andam na’ng motanum sa mga lungsod sa Jabonga ug Santiago.

Ang AGUSAN UP! mao ang kampanya sa pagpalambo sa administrasyon ni Gob. Dale B. Corvera inabagan sa buhatan ni Kongresista Angel Amante-Matba.

Ang Plant! Plant! Plant! usa sa mga flagship projects niini.

Caraga INFOCUS

Ang 3,000 ektaryas nga inisyal nga tamnan ning tuiga kabahin sa 125,000 ektaryas nga gipunting tamnan og abaka, saging, cacao, kape, lubi, bulanghoy, rubber, mangga ug uban pang prutas ug commercial trees hangtud sa tuig 2027.

Usa sa nakadawat sa seedling sa abaka kaganiha mao ang Dinarawan Indigenous Peoples Organization (DIPO) sa lungsod sa Jabonga nga mikomiter og 150 ektaryas nga tamnan og abaca, ingon man sa kape ug cacao hangtud sa tuig 2027.

Ang laing nakadawat og seedlings mao ang Pangaylan Indigenous Peoples Organization (PIPO) nga mikomiter og 200 ektaryas aron tamnan og abaca, kape, rubber ug cassava.

Nakadawat usab ang Kitcharao, Jabonga, Santiago, Tubay Hill Tribe nga mikometer og 300 ektaryas alang sa mga crops nga saging, abaca, ug falcatta sa mga luna nga nahimutang sa lungsod sa Santiago.

Sundan ang pagpanghatud sa seedling sa abaka sa mga mag-uuma ug IPs sa lungsod sa Kitcharao ugma.

Himoon usab kini sa uban pang mga lungsod sa mosunod nga mga bulan.

Gawas sa pagpadangat og seedling ipahiluna usab sa AGUSAN UP! nga makamugna ang grupo nga magbarug unya alang sa Abaca Industry Cluster og nursery sa abaca.

Mahinumdoman nga dul-an sa 500 ka mag-uuma ug IPs ang January 9-15, 2021 |

45

gihatagan sa Team Plant3 og Farm Planning ug Financial Literacy Seminars sugod sa milabay’ng Septiyembre isip kabahin sa pagandam kanila alang sa pagpananum nga gisugdan niadtong Disyembre.

Magpadayon gihapon ang maong mga seminar samtang magpadayon na ang pagpananum sugod ning bulana ug sa tibuok na’ng tuig.

Dungan niini, gipahiluna usab karon sa Team Process!

Process! Process! (Team Process3) ang Abaca Handicraft Processing Village sa Syudad sa Cabadbaran, ang mahimong pasilidades unya sa advance na nga processing activities sa Abaca.

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| January 9-15, 2021

Himoon ang pagpahiluna sa maong processing village samtang pakusgan usab ang suporta sa abaca fiber consolidation ingon man ang ug primary ug pipila ka secondary processing work sa San Isidro United Farmers MultiPurpose Cooperative (SIUFMULCO).

Ang nahisgutang mga pagpahiluna sa value chain sa abaca kabahin sa nalatid nga roadmap sa mga stakeholders niini nga kab-oton ang kinatibukang halin nga Php2 bilyones pag-abot sa tuig 2027.

Sa maong pagpadangat og seedling mapasalamaton ang mga mag-uuma ug IPs. Sumala pa kang Datu Randy Catarman, Chairman sa DIPO,

daku na og ikatabang sa iyang mga membro ang natunol nga mga seedlings sa abaca. Ilang plano nga ibutang ang maong mga seedling sa sa ilang commonal area aron pasanayon ug magsilbing tinubdan na unya sa uban pang saha nga ilang itanum.

Kaabag sa probinsya sa pagpalambo sa abaca industry cluster ang Caraga Office sa Philippine Fiber Development Authority (PhilFida-Caraga) nga nag-produce sa mga seedling nga inisyal nga giapod apod ug iapodapod pa unya, ingon man ang Agusasn del Norte Office sa Department of Trade and Industry (DTI-Agusan del Norte) nga mikometer na nga mosuporta pagpahiluna sa mga pasilidades nga kinahanglanon unya sa Abaca Processing Village ug ang Baug CARP MultiPurpose Cooperative nga maoy nagpahulam sa mga mag-uuma ug IPs alang sa kabahin sa mga galastuhan pagtanum og abaka. (Angel Lyn F. Gaviola & Arnfe Flores, Agusan Up, LGU Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte) Caraga INFOCUS

SERBISYO SA AGNOR SA 2021 MOARANGKADA LUYO SA HUGOT PANG PANAGHIUSA SA MGA EMPLEYADO SA KAPITOLYO

By Karen Kie V. Decamotan M o a r a n g k a d a ang posibleng mahimong sa katawhan.

Sa iyang mensahe, pagpadangat og mga mga limitasyon alang sa ni Gob. serbisyo ang probinsya epektibo ug episyenteng gipasabot kinahanglan sa Agusan del Norte paggamit sa pundo sa Corvera ang hugot pang dala ang hugot pang tuig 2021. panaghiusa sa tumong Naggahin ang panaghiusa sa matag pangkalambuan, gahin probinsya og kinatibuk- buhatan sa direksyon nga pundo ug plastada ang budget nga Php1.46 sa pagpalambo ilabina sa mga tawo human bilyones niining tuiga luyo sa gisagubang nga kini mauyoni sa usa ug buot sa gobernador pandemya nga dala sa ka Executive Meeting nga maggastu gyod COVID-19. nga gipangunahan ni kini ug epektibong Nanawagan usab Gob. Dale B. Corvera sa mapadangat sa mga ang gobernador nga andam miaging semana. tawo ang mga serbisyo. kinahanglang

Sa maong meeting, Apil usab sa gitan- ang matag buhatan sa mga emerhensya ilabina gi-review ang mga aw ang pagkabahinsa posibleng mahitabo tumong pangkalambuan bahin sa mga job orders kung makasulod sa sa probinsya ug ang mga (JO) aron maseguro nga probinsya ang bag-ong programa ug proyekto napahiluna sila sumala matang sa COVID-19 nga pagkab-ot niini ubos sa sa panginahanglan sa naana karon sa pipila ka konteksto sa AGUSAN matag opisina. nasud.

UP!, ang kampanya sa Naay 1,714 ka G i p a s a l a m a t a n pagpalambo ni Gob. personahe ang probinsya usab sa gobernador Corvera inabagan sa karon, 992 kanila mga ang mga empleyedo buhatan ni Kongresista JO ug sa kanunay buot sa probinsya nga Angel Amante-Matba. ni Gob. Corvera nga maoy nangamot Gi-review usab plastado ang ilang mga pagpadangat sa mga sa maong tigum ang functions tungod kay serbisyo bisan pa man sa utilization rate sa budget alang niya, kabahin sila mga kalisdanan sa ilang sa matag opisina sa tuig sa mga hinungdan nga trabaho. (Agusan Up, 2020 ilabina talewala sa epektibong nakaalagad LGU Agusan del Norte/ pandemya aron makita ang iyang administrasyon PIA Agusan del Norte) Caraga INFOCUS

January 9-15, 2021 |

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MINDANAO NEWS

ICONIC PH EAGLE ‘PAG-ASA’ DIES

By Che Palicte The Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF) on Friday announced the death of “Pag-asa”, the first Philippine eagle to be bred and hatched in captivity. He was 28 years old.

“The Philippine Eagle Foundation is sad to announce the passing of beloved Philippine eagle, Pag-asa. He succumbed to infections associated with Trichomoniasis and Aspergillosis.

Both diseases are fatal for raptors.

Although treatment was done over a week ago, he continued to deteriorate and died at 8:03 p.m. on January 6,” the PEF said in a statement.

Pag-asa was bred through artificial insemination and hatched through combined artificial and natural incubation techniques.

He was named after the Tagalog term for “hope” by the PEF team as awareness of conservation efforts on the endangered Philippine eagles increased after his hatching.

He was the first offspring of Philippine eagles Diola and Junior.

Then 29-year-old Diola laid the egg, and Junior, who is found in Agusan, donated the sperm.

She sat on the egg for 12 days before it was transferred to an incubator.

“Pag-asa would have turned 29 years old on Jan. 15, 2021. He was the first-ever Philippine eagle bred and hatched in captivity using the cooperative artificial Caraga INFOCUS

Photo of Pag-asa courtesy of Philippine Eagle Foundation

insemination (CAI) techniques. Pagasa’s birth – the culmination of 14 years’ worth of research – heralded hope for the critically endangered species and the entire conservation mission,” the foundation said.

Years after he was hatched, the PEF reached yet another milestone with Pag-asa in the form of his first and only offspring, “Mabuhay”, who was also bred and hatched through CAI.

Even after he retired from breeding, Pag-asa lived his life as an icon of hope for Filipinos, young and old, and was a constant inspiration to the people working tirelessly to save the country’s national bird from extinction, the PEF added.

“Pag-asa was gone too soon indeed, but his legacy lives on,” it said.

(PNA) January 9-15, 2021 |

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MINDANAO BAMBOO EXPO 2021 TO PROMOTE BAMBOO PRODUCTS An Expo to showcase the various high-value bamboo products, including exquisite furniture and decors, is set to be staged in Malaybalay City in Summer of 2021.

The Mindanao Bamboo Expo 2021 will be one of the major activities to be undertaken following the scheduled organization of the Mindanao Bamboo Council on Jan. 19 in Cagayan de Oro City.

Earlier today, I had a phone conversation with Rod Bioco, Chairman of the Bukidnon Giant Bamboo Resources Corp., to discuss concrete plans to boost the bamboo industry of Mindanao.

The BGB Resources Corp. has established a huge processing plant for bamboo initially producing steam treated slats for export thus creating a demand for more bamboo poles.

I believe, however, that while exporting treated bamboo slats is a good start to boost the production of

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| January 9-15, 2021

bamboo, the best option is still converting the semiprocessed materials into high-value products locally.

Last week, I saw beautiful pieces of furniture, including office tables and chairs, made out of bamboo in Naawan, Misamis Oriental and in Malaybalay, Bukidnon.

I saw also a prefabricated Bamboo House owned by Myrna Decipulo of Malaybalay who is the acknowledged prime mover of Bamboo farming in Mindanao.

In the proposed Mindanao Bamboo Expo 2021, the Mindanao

Development Authority (MinDA) will also conduct a search for the best HighValue Bamboo Products which will be given recognition and awards, just like in the recent Mindanao Vegetable Derby also in Bukidnon.

This strategy of showing the best products of Mindanao farmers and craftsmen is expected to bring out the best from people of the region.

F u r n i t u r e companies, including the internationally known Ikea, will be invited to participate in the Mindanao Bamboo Expo 2021.

Caraga INFOCUS

NATIONAL NEWS

IN CELEBRATION OF 500 YEARS OF VICTORY AT MACTAN, ANDANAR URGES FILIPINOS TO LOOK BACK TO OUR ROOTS AND TELL THE WORLD OUR STORY P r e s i d e n t i a l Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin M. Andanar urged the Filipino people to look back to our roots this year by participating in the once-in-a-lifetime and year-round event of the National Quincentennial Committee (NQC), which is the 2021 Quincentennial Commemorations in the Philippines (2021 QCP).

With the theme “Victory and Humanity,” this event will commemorate the 500th anniversary of the Philippine part in the first circumnavigation of the world, the Victory at Mactan, and other related events.

“There are many depictions on what happened during 1521.

Many perspectives can be considered.

This

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prompted the national government to create the National Quincentennial Committee to provide clarification, right direction, and a national vision to our commemoration of Filipino history,” said Sec. Andanar during the Cabinet Report sa Teleradyo on Friday, January 9, 2021.

“Even if we are facing the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important that we, the Filipino people, participate in the National Quincentennial Commemorations.

We just do not remind ourselves what happened hundreds of years ago, rather we are looking back to the foundation of how the Philippines was established and how it shaped our culture and

traditions. This reminds us of our roots, and let’s tell the world our story and the Filipino identity,” Sec. Andanar added.

Vice Chairman of the National Quincentennial Committee and concurrent National Historical Commission of the Philippines Chairperson Rene Escalante stressed that Lapulapu’s victory in Mactan in 1521 will be celebrated throughout the year, and will be participated in by the international communities and some local government units, particularly in the Visayas region.

“Ito po ay nakaalign sa policy ng Duterte administration kung saan gusto niyang magkaroon tayo ng independent foreign Caraga INFOCUS

policy na hangga’t maari ang mga problema na kinakaharap natin ay solusyunan ng mga Pilipino at hindi ng mga dayuhan [(The theme) is aligned with the policy of the Duterte administration.

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte wants us to have an independent foreign policy. We, as Filipinos, and not the foreigners, should find the solution to every challenge we face],” said NQC Vice Chair Escalante.

Aside from virtual activities which can be accessed across the country, the NQC now has at least 411 entries for their Quincentennial Caraga INFOCUS

Art Competition. Twelve deserving paintings will be picked and displayed at the Lapulapu Memorial Shrine and Museum.

Office of the Presidential Assistant for the Visayas Assistant Secretary Jonji Gonzales hopes that Lapulapu will finally be given proper recognition as the first Filipino hero, 500 years since the Victory at Mactan.

“As Visayans, we also expect to have Lapulapu to be completely known by the country as our first hero to resist imperial foreign colonization.

Kami sa Visayas, we

have always wanted na makilala na talaga si Lapulapu, and this is the time na mangyari na ito [We, the people here in the Visayas, have always wanted Lapulapu to be recognized (as a hero), and this is the time for it to happen],” said Asec.

Gonzales.

“Filipinos have survived many great challenges in history, and we will certainly conquer the present and the future trials and adversity with the spirit of humanity and victory. Nothing is impossible with the Filipinos,” added Asec.

Gonzales.

January 9-15, 2021 |

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ANDANAR: GOVERNMENT SEES STRENGTHENED ENGAGEMENT WITH IP GROUPS FOR PEACE AND SECURITY P r e s i d e n t i a l Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar on Thursday evening bared that the Duterte administration will maintain partnership and engagement with Indigenous Peoples groups, citing their importance towards undertaking peace and security-building with members of the communist terrorist

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groups. “Marami tayong gagawin.

Ngayong taon ay mas lalo pa nating papalakasin ang mga programa sa pakikipag-ugnayan sa mga Indigenous Peoples [We have a lot to do. This year, we will further strengthen the programs to engage with Indigenous Peoples],� he said in an interview over an evening program of the Abante Radyo

Tabloidista.

On top of his task of leading the communications arm of the government, Secretary Andanar is also designated as the Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security for Region 10 (CORDS X). With this, he also outlined priority projects that Northern Mindanao will continue to provide support as part of the antiCaraga INFOCUS

insurgency initiatives of the administration.

One of these is the promotion of Adlai, an alternative staple food. With the help of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Department of Agriculture (DA), former rebels were given a livelihood program on adlai production, along with other reintegration programs.

Presently, the converging efforts of line agencies have developed a brand for Adlai-based products, which is called “Fresh Start.”

“Ngayon, pinapackage natin ito at hinahanapan ng merkado [Now, we are packaging it and finding a market for it],” he said.

M e a n w h i l e , Secretary Andanar assured that the PCOO and its attached agencies will continue to deliver relevant and timely information to the public, adapting to the ‘new normal’ way of disseminating it.

He said that the Laging Handa briefings, which stood to the needs of the public to be informed, will continue to Caraga INFOCUS

air and address concerns and questions on policies and programs of the government, especially during the persistent coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.

“Ngayong 2021 ay patuloy pa ring bibigyang prayoridad ng PCOO ang Laging Handa Information and Communications Campaign [For 2021, the PCOO will continue to prioritize our Laging Handa Information and Communications Campaign],” he said.

“Ito’y upang tuluytuloy nating masiguro sa publiko na maayos at epektibo ang ginagawa ng gobyerno sa sitwasyon ng COVID-19 [This is to assure the public that the government is doing its part to manage appropriately and effectively the COVID-19 situation],” he added.

The PCOO chief noted that the production of Laging Handa documentaries, highlighting the lives of the frontliners and affected sectors during the pandemic, will also continue as these showcase the initiatives of the government in assisting them.

“Yung mandato sa amin ni Presidente Duterte ay mas lalo pang paigtingin ang aming pagpapalaganap ng impormasyon sa publiko tungkol sa mga programa at proyekto ng pamahalaan [President Duterte has mandated us to further intensify our efforts to spread the information to the public on the programs and projects of the government],” he said, stressing that the PCOO and its attached agencies will also provide information on the roll out of COVID-19 vaccines starting this year.

He also mentioned the agency’s plan to establish a Government Strategic Communications Academy in Bukidnon that will serve as a training hub for government information officers. The project is expected to commence this year.

He also reiterated plans to put up a Visayas Media hub that will strengthen public involvement and will enable the target audience in the Visayas to receive tailored content specific to them.

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CARAGA REGIONAL DEV’T COUNCIL FORMS SPECIAL BALIK PROBINSYA COMMITTEE - NOGRALES Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles led the gathering last Friday of the Caraga Special Committee on the “Balik Probinsiya, Bagong Pag-asa” program together with members of the Regional Development Council, stressing that “now is the time to realize the full potential of our provinces as economic centers and alternatives to established urban economic hubs.”

Nograles chairs the Special Committee and is the Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security (CORDS) for the CARAGA region.

The Balik Probinsiya Bagong Pag-asa program took effect when President Rodrigo Duterte signed Executive Order No. 114 last May 6, 2020.

The initiative aims to decongest urban areas such as Metro Manila and Metro Cebu by encouraging residents originally from the provinces and less developed areas

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to “return home” by giving them direct assistance to resettle and by providing housing, livelihood as well as aid in costs of living and education.

“Offering financial incentives to return to one’s hometown is one thing, but we are also drawing up more holistic and comprehensive plans to reignite economic activity in rural areas. Jobs and better economic opportunities are important because these are the reasons people leave in the first place,” Nograles stressed.

The former legislator further emphasized that “this northeastern area of Mindanao shows a lot of potential, which we have actually been developing.

The tourism component, for instance, has been stalled because of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic but we are fully boosting trade, transport and investments in Caraga.”

Nograles emphasized that the committee is again in the process of reinvigoration, prompted by his proposals as Chair, and with increased collective realization of the urgency in implementing concrete programs because of the health crisis which has affected even urban areas.

The former legislator from Davao likewise cited the shared leadership with Caraga Governor Dale Corvera as key to the RDC’s active push for more programs and activities.

“Gov. Dale serves as our co-chair of the RDC. He is a fellow Mindanaoan who knows the issues and Caraga INFOCUS

challenges on the ground first hand and we both coordinate well within the Council.”

“Our objective in the special committee is to create an environment where Balik Probinsiya could truly be an alternative employment and long-term living option for those who have previously relocated to urban cities but now want to return to their home provinces to start anew,” Nograles emphasized.

ZERO HUNGER TASK FORCE MARKS FIRST YEAR WITH LAUNCH OF NATIONAL FOOD POLICY A year since its establishment, the government’s Zero Hunger Task Force (ZHTF) has been able to make positive progress in its efforts to address hunger in the Philippines––including the timely completion and launch of the National Food Policy–– despite a pandemic that has engulfed the entire world and required the implementation of Caraga INFOCUS

restrictions since March last year.

This according to Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles, who at the first anniversary of the Inter-Agency Task Force on Zero Hunger and the launching of the NFP document, acknowledged the valuable contributions of the task force’s member agencies and private sector partners.

“In a span of one year a lot of things have happened; from typhoons and other calamities that have hit our country to our continuing battle to address the COVID-19 pandemic,” said the Palace official.

“Despite all of these we remain hopeful and diligent in our duties to ensure that no Filipino will be left behind.”

Nograles, chair January 9-15, 2021 |

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of the task force, enumerated the various initiatives successfully spearheaded by the ZHTF.

Among these are: (1) the launching of the NFP, (2) the creation of the Enhanced Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty (EPAHP), (3) the institutionalization of the Zero Hunger Programs Guidelines, (4) the holding of the Kasapatan at Ugnayan ng Mamayan sa Akmang Pagkain at Nutrisyon (KUMAIN) Webinar Series, (5) the Feeding Programs Initiative for the First 1000 Days of Life, (6) the launching of Pilipinas Kontra Gutom, and (7) the drafting of the Philippine Multisectoral Nutrition Project (PMNP) Proposal for the World Bank.

These projects, particularly the NFP, are the products of efforts by the task force to exhaustively assess the country’s performance in

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terms of fighting hunger through a review of policies that prevent cycles of hunger––both at the national and local level––and identifying necessary interventions to reach a sustained level of resilience to end the country’s problem on hunger.

“By undergoing such, the necessary transformation of institutions is paved, again both at the national and local levels, to provide hungersensitive programs, activities and projects and complementary specialized external support needed are identified and pursued,” explained the former legislator.

The core message of the NFP, Nograles pointed out, “is to strengthen government agencies, both at the national and regional levels, and local government units to provide citizens

necessary programs and interventions to end hunger, achieve food security, improve nutrition and attain sustainable agriculture.”

“This,” he added, “allows national leaders, local chief executives, partners and stakeholders to restore a stable development path in hunger stricken, nutritionally inadequate, and agriculturally handicapped areas of the country.”

“Despite all the obstacles we encountered on our first year as a Task Force, I am proud to say that we have achieved so much, but much remains to be done and our work continues; we need to stay ahead of the game to be open and receptive to adopt new technologies and know-how, and be constantly vigilant to emerging needs and to always respond in a timely manner.”

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PRESIDENT DUTERTE INAUGURATES SKYWAY STAGE 3 PROJECT President Rodrigo Roa Duterte inaugurated on Thursday, January 14, the third stage of the Metro Manila Skyway Project (MMSS-3) built to ease traffic congestion in Metro Manila, saying the administration’s Build, Build, Build program has started to bear fruit.

“The successful completion of the Skyway is a testament to the efficiency, reliability, and sustainability of our Build, Build, Build Program,” President Duterte said in a speech during the inauguration rites held at Del Monte Toll Plaza in Araneta Avenue, Quezon City.

“It attests to the endless possibilities that we can accomplish through the dynamic partnership between the government and the Caraga INFOCUS

private sector.”

As Filipinos marvel the feat of completing the Skyway project, the President said he hopes that people in government will be reminded of their responsibility to not only ensure the timely completion of all public infrastructure projects, but also to shield the public from all forms of inconvenience during constructions.

At the same time, he assured Filipino that his administration would continue to pursue its Build, Build, Build program guided by the highest standards of integrity, transparency and accountability.

He also expressed his gratitude to the government’s private sector partners — Citra

Central Expressway Corp. and San Miguel Corp - for trusting his administration to complete the project.

“Your investment has finally paid off, and the Skyway shall serve as an enduring edifice of the legacy that we will leave behind for future generations of Filipinos,” he said.

“With the trust and help of the private sector and of the Filipino people, I am confident that we can build the foundations of an inclusive, robust and prosperous nation that we can proudly leave behind to our children,” he added

The Chief Executive also thanked all the Filipino laborers for their toil to make the project a reality.

“They may not be earning much pero ang January 9-15, 2021 |

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trabaho pinakita nila will last for generations. So kung sino man ngayon ang mga trabahante dito, tanggapin po ninyo ang mainit kong pagbati,� he said.

The 19-kilometer segment of the Skyway, which runs from Buendia in Makati to NLEX in Balintawak, was completed through the joint efforts of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Citra Central

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Expressway Corp. and San Miguel Holdings.

By connecting MMSS-3 with Skyway Stages 1 and 2, a continuous 35-kilometer elevated expressway now directly links Alabang with Balintawak.

The project is expected to significantly contribute to a more efficient movement of goods and people from north to south, and within Manila.

PND Caraga INFOCUS

TRIPARTITE DEAL FOR VACCINES, PROOF OF FILIPINO’S BAYANIHAN SPIRIT - PRRD President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Thursday lauded the signing of a tripartite agreement among the national government, local government units, private sector, and vaccine manufacturer which will secure an additional 14.4 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines from the BritishSwedish pharmaceutical company Astrazeneca.

The total doses under the tripartite scheme has now reached to 17 million doses, augmenting the country’s vaccines amid the limited supply in the global market.

In November 2020, the private sector, national government and AstraZeneca inked a similar tripartite deal, for around 2.6 million doses.

Half of the procured doses from the private sector will be used to inoculate the personnel of the donor companies, while the other half will be donated to the national government.

“Our tripartite agreement is a true showcase of our unity of Caraga INFOCUS

purpose and principled partnership benefiting our public. This is Bayanihan at work,” Duterte said in a taped message.

The second wave of the multi-stakeholder initiative dubbed “a dose of hope,” was participated in by 39 LGUs and over 300 private companies.

“There is light at the end of the tunnel. National recovery is within sight.

As we bounce back and heal as one, I commend the business community and the LGUs, for your ramping of support for our nation’s fight against COVID-19,” the President added.

During the signing, AstraZeneca Philippines Country President Lotis Ramin committed to abide by the country’s vaccine regulations, and to closely work with the government during the rollout of the nationwide inoculation program.

“AstraZeneca maintains our strong commitment to maintain broad and equitable access to the vaccine at

no profit, for the duration of the pandemic. We are working closely with the regulatory authorities to ensure that the COVID-19 vaccine lives up to the highest safety standards, and its introduction complies with healthcare regulations in the Philippines,” she said.

Presidential Adviser for Entrepreneurship and Go Negosyo Founder Joey Concepcion emphasized the importance of securing vaccines in the fight against COVID-19.

“The solution really is the vaccine. Testing, social distancing, and wearing of masks will provide us to coexist with the virus, but at the end of the day, we have to eliminate the virus; and that’s why the private sector, the LGUs and the national government (are) passionate in wanting to see these vaccines arrive as soon as possible,” Concepcion said.

For his part, vaccine czar and National Task Force against COVID-19 Chief Implementer January 9-15, 2021 |

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Carlito G. Galvez, Jr. acknowledged the crucial role of all stakeholders in the tripartite agreement, which he said will be the key in defeating COVID-19.

“We acknowledge the crucial role that our LGUs and the private sector have played in our National Immunization Program.

With your continued support, we will be able to identify, validate and respond to the needs of our priority beneficiaries based on our geographical and sectoral strategy,” Galvez said. “(Likewise), the national government would also like to express its gratitude to AstraZeneca for allowing this novel tripartite agreement to happen.

We have no doubt that this partnership, which will enable us to save more than eight million lives from the menace of the virus, will be a resounding success,” he added.

Overwhelming support from LGUs, private sector, international partner “Today is the beginning of a new chapter -- one that we

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hope will usher in a better year for all of us in terms of finally addressing the pandemic. With millions of Filipinos eagerly awaiting for a vaccine, mass vaccination will be a priority and joint efforts among several private and public sectors is crucial in this regard,” Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte declared, who spoke on behalf of the Mindanao local governments.

“Thank you for the opportunity to be part of this. The vaccines will be our path to recover.

This is all about working together in partnership -- that’s the only way we can fight this virus. We have to work together,” said Bacolod City Mayor Evelio Leonardia, who spoke on behalf of the Visayas local government units.

“Asahan n’yo po na kami sa lokal na pamahalaan ang inyong mga sundalo at katuwang upang siguraduhin ang kaligtasan at kalusugan ng bawat mamamayang Pilipino. Sa araw po na ito - sinemento po natin at ipinamalas sa buong mundo ang bayanihan ng mga Pilipino,”Dakila

Carlo ‘Dax’ Enriquez Cua, Provincial Governor of Quirino Province, who spoke on behalf of the Luzon local government units.

“I congratulate you all on your dedication to securing a successful conclusion to these negotiations so that the people of the Philippines can look forward to a better and safer future,” Daniel Pruce, British Ambassador to the Philippines.

The tripartite agreement among the national government, LGUs, private sector, and vaccine manufacturers, is the first-in-the-world arrangement to allow the Philippines to secure more vaccines for the country.

President Duterte has earlier approved the scheme in a bid to solidify the government’s effort to ensure that the country will have sufficient vaccines given the limited supply in the global market.

The government vaccine efforts aim at bringing back the normalcy of the Filipinos’ lives and revive the country’s economy.

Caraga INFOCUS

PRESIDENT DUTERTE BARES MORE DISMISSALS President Rodrigo Roa Duterte talks to the people after holding a meeting with the Inter-Agency Task Force on the Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) core members at the Malacañang Golf (Malago) Clubhouse in Malacañang Park, Manila on January 13, 2021. ROBINSON NIÑAL/ PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

As the government continues its campaign against graft and corruption, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte disclosed Wednesday more names of government officials who were removed from service for abusing their positions.

Among those dismissed were barangay employees, an official from a staterun corporation, and members of the Armed Forces.

“Lahat sila ito parepareho ‘yan, dismissed from service with accessory penalties of cancellation of eligibility, forfeiture of retirement benefits, and the perpetual disqualification for reemployment in the government service.

Ibig sabihin he can no Caraga INFOCUS

longer seek employment sa gobyerno,” President Duterte said during his weekly public address.

Among those sacked include Alejandro Rivera, regional vice president of Quedan and Rural Credit Guarantee Corp. (Quedancor) for dishonesty and grave misconduct.

Also included in President’s list were Gattaran, Cagayan, municipal treasurer Ana Turaray, and Los Baños, Laguna, Barangay Captain Joben Manarpaac and barangay secretary Laica Macapua. The two Los Baños officials were accused of grave abuse of authority, grave misconduct, and serious dishonesty.

Also dismissed for committing wrongdoings

were Janet Escalada and Orly Pastrana, administrative aides from Romblon; Rowena Garcia, barangay treasurer; and Lara Jill Lorbis, a Luisiana, Laguna, barangay treasurer.

Several members of the Philippine Navy were also removed from service for fraud against the government.

They include Quartermaster 1st Class Petty Officer Elpidio Aromin, Petty Officer 2nd Class Jesus De Egurrola, Petty Officer 2nd Class Lecyl Nambatac, Apprentice Seaman Ed Mark Saura, and Seaman Second Class Sunny Boy Beberino.

The President, who ran on an anti-graft platform, has earlier ordered an investigation of the entire government bureaucracy to stop anomalies and get rid of officials and employees engaged in graft and corruption. PND January 9-15, 2021 |

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GOV’T MAY START IMMUNIZATION NEXT MONTH, SAYS COUNTRY’S VACCINE CZAR The government may start giving the first COVID-19 jab next month with vaccines provided by the COVAX Facility, the country’s vaccine czar said on Wednesday.

COVAX is one of three pillars of the Access to COVID-19 Tools (ACT) Accelerator, which was launched in April by the World Health Organization (WHO), the European Commission and France in response to

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the COVID-19 pandemic.

It aims to provide innovative and equitable access to COVID-19 diagnostics, treatments and vaccines.

“May possibility po na February po na magdala po ang COVAX dito, WHO at saka UNICEF ng Pfizer,” Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. told President Rodrigo Roa Duterte during a meeting in Malacañang.

Galvez, the nation’s

vaccine czar and also the chief implementer of the National Task Force Against COVID-19, also said the country expects to receive on February 20, 50,000 doses from China’s Sinovac. An additional 950,000 doses will arrive a month after and then two million more in the succeeding months.

The government’s negotiations with Pfizer Inc is also doing well, according to Galvez.

Caraga INFOCUS

There’s a possibility, he said, that Pfizer could provide the Philippines additional allocation, giving the country more or less 25 to 40 million doses, one of the biggest the country can get from a supplier.

“At natutuwa po kami dahil kasi hindi po tayo iniwan ng Pfizer at may commitment po sila na baka magkaroon po pagka nagpirmahan po tayo baka, hopefully, kung mayroon silang excess from US at other countries puwede pong mai-deliver ‘to sa atin,” he told the President.

Galvez also reported that the private sector and several of the country’s LGUs have inked a deal with AstraZeneca for the supply of more or less 17 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine.

The vaccine will be delivered in the second semester of this year, most likely July, August, or September, he said.

The government is also in the final stages of its negotiations with drug maker Johnson & Johnson for the provision of a single jab vaccine. A tested vaccine manufacturer, J&J developed the vaccine for Ebola when it Caraga INFOCUS

ravaged several African countries.

The Philippine government is also negotiating a deal with American bio-technology company Moderna.

Talks with Russia’s Gamaleya Research Institute, through the Russian Direct Investment Fund, is also running smoothly, Galvez said.

Gamaleya promised to deliver 50 to 100 million doses to the Philippines.

“Iyon po ang negotiation natin kaya po secured na natin

ang 137 million doses para next year. Puwede pong umakyat ‘yan sa 172 (million). Hindi pa po kasama diyan ang 42 million doses para po sa COVAX kasi bibigyan po tayo ng COVAX ng 20 percent countries’ population. Libre po ‘yan, Mr. President,” Galvez said.

“‘Yung sa COVAX po na ‘yan, WHO at saka ‘yung UNICEF and then Gavi, either ang ibibigay po sa atin Pfizer, AstraZeneca, Novavax and J&J.” PND January 9-15, 2021 |

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President Rodrigo Roa Duterte presides over a meeting with the Inter-Agency Task Force on the Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) core members prior to his talk to the people at the Malacañang Golf (Malago) Clubhouse in Malacañang Park, Manila on January 13, 2021. RICHARD MADELO/ PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

GOV’T ALLOCATES P82.5B FOR COVID-19 MASS IMMUNIZATION The government will spend P82.5 billion to buy COVID-19 vaccines and fund the rollout of a massive immunization program aimed at stopping the coronavirus’ onslaught, President Rodrigo Roa reported on Wednesday.

“I’d like to just --sabihin ko sa Pilipino kung saan tayo kumukuha ng pera,” President Duterte said in a weekly address to the nation on the government response against the virus.

“The significant

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updates of procurement and finance: vaccines ang source, unprogrammed funds; foreign multilateral and bilateral loans; domestic loans. Nandiyan ‘yan naka-on deck na ‘yan.”

Breaking down government expenditure, he said P70 billion will be spent for logistics and other supplies provided for by the 2021 General Appropriations Act; Department of Health (DOH), P2.5 billion; and the Bayanihan 2 providing continuing government

appropriation, P10 billion.

“Lahat-lahat mayroon tayong P82.5 billion para sa COVID. Palagay ko sapat na ‘yan,” he noted.

The President also expressed his gratitude to private entities and individuals who made commitments to help the government in its mass vaccination against the coronavirus.

Among those who expressed readiness to assist the government include businessman Manuel Pangilinan, Caraga INFOCUS

the Ayalas, Joey Concepcion, Aboitiz Group, Unilab and others.

Pangilinan and the Ayalas are providing well-experienced supply chain managers and consultants to help the government in its mass immunization program.

“Pasalamat tayo for those persons mentioned and the agencies who are trying to --- who are there to help us in the --- well, in the vaccination of the population.

Kailangan kasi ‘yan ng organization eh. You have to have a structural thing there,” he said.

“Well, we cannot remember everybody mentioned but sabihin ko na lang na magpasalamat ako sa inyo. It’s a big deal really for --- for you to be conscious also of the problem and trying to give a helping hand,” he added.

The government expects to receive its first delivery of COVID-19 vaccine next month, which will initially be used to inoculate the country’s frontliners before rolling out its vaccination program to the general population. PND Caraga INFOCUS

PH GOVERNMENT SIGNS AGREEMENT TO SECURE 30M DOSES OF COVOVAX

Photo by Dr. Luningning Villa of DOH

The Philippine government, represented by Vaccine Czar Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., Serum Institute of India (SII) and Faberco Life Sciences, Inc., have signed a Term Sheet on January 9, 2021 to secure the supply of 30 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine Covovax, which will be available starting third quarter of this year.

“This is a significant milestone in relations between India and the Philippines. It shows that we don’t have to look far

beyond Philippine shores to find friends who are willing to help each other out,” Kishore Hemlani, Founder of Faberco Life Sciences Inc., SII’s Philippine partner, said after the signing with Sec. Galvez.

SII, the world’s largest vaccine manufacturer, partnered with Novavax, a US-based biotechnology company for the development and commercialization of the Covovax vaccine.

The vaccine has the January 9-15, 2021 |

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recombinant coronavirus spike protein nanoparticle and a Novavaxpatented Matrix-M adjuvant to enhance the immune response and stimulate high levels of neutralizing antibodies.

Covovax is in third-stage trials and expected to be approved for use by international regulators.

“The vaccine will be used to vaccinate 15 million vulnerable and poor Filipinos. The vaccine is stable at 2°C to 8°C, the standard temperature that is within the existing cold chain system in the Philippines, thus allowing its distribution to the remotest barangays,” said Faberco Life Sciences Medical Director Dr. Luningning Villa.

The candidate

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vaccine is thoroughly evaluated in different geographies, various age groups, groups that are most affected

by COVID-19, including people living with HIV, and racial and ethnic minorities. The clinical trials involve a sizeable population of around 50,000 subjects to ensure extreme robust clinical data prior to approval by relevant regulatory bodies including the World Health Organization.

The vaccine underwent the initial phase of the clinical trials in Australia, South Africa and India. Phasethree trial is currently carried out in the UK with 15,000 subjects and also ongoing in the United States and Mexico with

30,000 subjects.

The price of the vaccine is expected to be finalized soon between the government and SII, which is noted for providing effective, safe and affordable vaccines across the globe through the decades. SII is a dependable supplier of various vaccines to the Philippines, especially those used in the government’s Expanded Program for Immunization.

Faberco Life Sciences, Inc., is also SII’s partner for key programs in the country such as the Inactivated Polio vaccine, Rotavirus vaccine, Pneumococcal Conjugate vaccine, aside from the COVID-19 vaccine.

Caraga INFOCUS

FIVE MORE COUNTRIES ADDED TO LIST OF JURISDICTIONS SUBJECT TO TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS – PALACE

Presidential Spokesperson Secretary Harry Roque Jr, in a press briefing on January 12, announced the addition of five more jurisdictions in the list of countries that will be subject to travel restrictions due to the detected new variants of COVID-19.

“Kasama na po ang People’s Republic of China, Pakistan, Jamaica, Luxembourg, and Oman sa mga bansa na meron pong bagong COVID-19 Caraga INFOCUS

variant at ipinagbabawal po ang pagpasok ng mga dayuhan galing sa mga bansang ito na galing po doon sa mga lugar na iyon, effective January 13, 2021 at noon (12:01 pm) until January 15, 2021 subject po to further recommendations of the IATF,” said Secretary Roque.

The Palace official, who serves as concurrent Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) Spokesperson, said that the travel

restriction was jointly recommended by the Department of Health and the Department of Foreign Affairs.

“Filipinos coming from these territories can still come home but subject to the absolute 14-day quarantine kahit ano man po ang resulta ng kanilang PCR test,” Secretary Roque stressed.

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Contributed photo

from the said countries or have been to the said jurisdictions within 14 days prior to arrival in the country, will be allowed to enter the Philippines.

However, these foreign nationals will be required to undergo an absolute 14-day facilitybased quarantine period even with a negative RT-PCR test result.

Transiting passengers from the aforementioned countries will be covered by the existing rules on passengers transiting in jurisdictions with travel restrictions.

On the matter of vaccine procurement by local government units (LGUs), the Palace spokesman underscored that LGUs will be able to do so through a multilateral agreement for the advance purchase of vaccines. This multilateral agreement is entered into by the Department of Health, AstraZeneca, and the LGUs, said Sec.

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Roque.

Sec. Roque explained that under this agreement, and with the offer of the LGUs to secure vaccines for their constituents, the LGU will be the one to pay for the vaccines that they will be getting from AstraZeneca.

“Pursuant to this multilateral agreement, yung LGU mismo ang magkakaroon ng budget para bumili sa Astrazeneca.

Malinaw po yan. Hindi naman po national government ang bumibili kundi ang mga lokal na pamahalaan,” said Roque.

Secretary Roque further stressed that aside from LGUs paying for the vaccines, it will also be the LGUs responsibility to send the payment to the manufacturer, including the cost associated with delivery, distribution, storage, among others.

Lastly, Roque added that the LGUs will

ensure that they have their own development and implementation of a local vaccination plan that is aligned with the National Development and Vaccination Plan.

In the same press briefing, Department of Health Undersecretary Dr. Maria Rosario Vergeire stressed that any vaccine that has been granted approval or receives an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) from the Philippine Food and Drug Administration is on equal footing with other vaccines in terms of safety and efficacy.

M e a n w h i l e , Foundation for Vaccination Executive Director Dr. Lulu Bravo underscored the need to listen to true experts on vaccination when it comes to a vaccine’s safety and efficacy. On possible adverse effects of vaccines and what will the government’s protocol be, Dr. Bravo pointed out that an adverse events protocol on vaccines is already in place, including a group of vaccine experts that make up the National Adverse Events Following Immunization Committee. OPS-PCOO Caraga INFOCUS

VACCINE PROCUREMENT TO BE BASED ON VACCINE EXPERT PANEL ENDORSEMENT - GALVEZ The selection, procurement and administration of COVID-19 vaccines in the country will strictly adhere to the government’s stringent protocols to ensure transparency and accountability, vaccine czar and National Task Force against COVID-19 Chief Implementer Carlito

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G. Galvez, Jr. assured lawmakers on Friday.

Galvez issued the statement during the second day of the Senate Committee of the Whole’s hearing on the national government’s COVID-19 vaccination program.

“Only those vaccines endorsed

by the vaccine expert panel will be purchased.

Only those issued an EUA (Emergency Use Authorization) by FDA (Food and Drug Administration) will be administered.

With regard to the prices of vaccines, we also want to assure the public that the negotiations will result Caraga INFOCUS

in the best price available given our total volumes,” Galvez said.

The FDA granted Pfizer-BioNTech an EUA on Thursday, January 14.

AstraZeneca, Sinovac and Gamaleya have also submitted their respective applications for EUA. According to the vaccine czar, the government’s “Wholeof-Nation Approach” will ensure that the government will be able to secure safe, effective and sufficient vaccine doses for all Filipinos.

“Given there is not enough supply yet, the Philippine national government’s approach is to pool national volumes to get a seat at the negotiating table and secure the most number of vaccines at the best prices with our partners in the private sector and the LGUs. Pooling the demand enables us to negotiate [for] lower prices for larger orders,” Galvez said.

The national government, the private sector, and LGUs recently signed a tripartite deal with BritishSwedish pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca also on Thursday, which Caraga INFOCUS

secured 17 million vaccine doses for the country.

“We have been pursuing a portfolio strategy and are negotiating with seven vaccine manufacturers.

These are the Serum Institute of India for Novavax, AstraZeneca of U.K., Pfizer of the U.S. and Germany, Janssen J&J of the U.S. and Belgium, Moderna of the U.S., Sinovac of China, and Gamaleya of Russia. This proves that we are not favoring any one particular brand or country,” Galvez said.

M e a n w h i l e , vaccine expert Dr. Lulu Bravo emphasized the importance of vaccines in the ongoing battle versus the deadly COVID-19.

“We have this old adage that prevention is better than cure, and with vaccines, it is an investment in health.

I’ve always taught our medical students and everybody else that a superior doctor prevents disease, and an inferior doctor treats disease,” Bravo said.

“We really need to rely on experts to tell us what to do next. The safety concern is paramount.

We will not compromise the safety of our people.

That is very important in vaccine development.

Any vaccine that shows signs of safety concern is thrown away as soon as it is detected,” she added.

Bravo also explained the context behind the efficacy rates of vaccines, particularly Sinovac, which has a 50% efficacy rate.

“That 50% efficacy was actually set by WHO (World Health Organization) long before, in the beginning of the pandemic. They (WHO) even said that an efficacy of 50 to 70 percent would be already acceptable in the midst of a pandemic, because these efficacy rates needed to be put in place when you have a severe pandemic,” she said.

“When the incidence is so high, that 50% efficacy would really be good enough to have that kind of protection, because no protection of course, is worse than partial protection. I guess that would be a good efficacy rate should you be able to get that vaccine,” Bravo added.

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NDRRMC: LGUS MAY PROCURE COVID-19 VACCINE

Citing the documentary bases on emergency responses, an official of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) believes that the local government units may be allowed to utilize their local Quick Response Funds (QRF) to procure vaccines against the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), provided that such inoculants are approved by the Food

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| January 9-15, 2021

and Drug Authority (FDA).

Budget Secretary Wendel Avisado has previously said that he would leave it to the NDRRMC to determine whether or not local governments could use their 30% QRF to purchase COVID-19 vaccines.

In an interview on Thursday, NDRRMC Executive Director Ricardo Jalad said that three legal documents are already in place

supporting decisions of LGUs to do so, including the Republic Act 10121.

“Sa legal basis na paggamit ng QRF as provided for by RA 10121, sinasabi diyan na ang Quick Response Fund ay standby fund for relief and recovery programs, in order that situations and living condition of people in communities and areas stricken by disaster, calamities, epidemics, or complex Caraga INFOCUS

emergencies maybe normalized as quickly as possible [On the legal basis on the use of QRF as provided for by RA 10121, it is stated there that the Quick Response Fund is a standby fund for relief and recovery programs, in order that situations and living condition of people in communities and areas stricken by disaster, calamities, epidemics, or complex emergencies maybe normalized as quickly as possible ],” he said during the Network Briefing News with host Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar.

A joint memorandum circular 2013-1 between the NDRRMC, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) dated March 25, 2013, may also serve as basis as it granted LGUs greater flexibility towards disaster mitigation, preparation, response, rehabilitation, and recovery.

He added that the signed Proclamation No. 1021 last September 16, Caraga INFOCUS

2020 may warrant the use of Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund to continue utilizing appropriate funds, including the Quick Response Fund, in their disaster preparedness and response efforts to contain the spread of COVID-19, monitor and control prices of basic necessities and prime commodities, and provide basic services to the affected populations.

“Sa palagay ko in agreement naman tayo na ang pagbili ng bakuna ay makakatulong sa atin sa pag-contain ng spread ng COVID-19 virus so pwedeng-pwede na ‘yun na gamitin ‘yung Quick Response Fund [I believe we are in an agreement that the purchase of vaccine will help in containing the spread of COVID-19, so

we can use the Quick Response Fund],” he said.

Maasin, Southern Leyte Mayor Nacional Mercado, who was also a guest on the same program, said that their purchase of vaccines for their constituents would be a great help especially for those who were not included under the priority list of Filipinos to be immunized.

“Malaking tulong na ma-utilize ng kanyakanyang LGU ang kanilang QRF for possible procurement of vaccine for our constituents [It will be a big help for LGUs to utilize their QRF for possible procurement of vaccine for our constituents],” he said.

On Thursday, the FDA approved for emergency use the PfizerBioNTech COVID-19 vaccine.

January 9-15, 2021 |

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PNP IMPOSES NEW GUIDELINE TO BOOST FIGHT VS. COVID-19

By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan The Philippine National covered by the mandatory that PNP personnel would make close contact, as Police (PNP) on Sunday quarantine. reminded all police “Even if they are not well as the time, date and personnel to wear face yet subjected to RT-PCR place of the contact. on the masks and face shields (reverse transcription- Based even inside police polymerase chain latest PNP data, a total stations and offices as reaction), they will be of 9,241 PNP personnel it implemented a new immediately brought to were infected by the guideline that will help our quarantine facilities coronavirus since March strengthen the efforts as part of the preventive last year and 28 of them died. The recovery rate, to prevent the spread measures,” Eleazar said in however, is high as 8,897 of of the coronavirus a statement on Sunday. those infected were able Disease (Covid-19) in the He said the possibility to fully recover. Currently, organization of coronavirus infection is there are 316 active cases

Lt. Gen. Guillermo high if the police personnel in the PNP. Lorenzo Eleazar, PNP made close contact with “While all those Deputy Chief for infected patient if they are who made close contact Administration and not wearing face mask with Covid-19 positive concurrent commander and face shield. personnel would be of the Administrative “Let this serve as required to report to Support for Covid-19 Task a warning to all our their respective health Force, said PNP chief personnel to wear both service units for medical Gen. Debold Sinas made a face mask and a face assessment, our rule now is the instruction based on shield at all times and treat that those who would be the new guideline that everybody in the police found not wearing face mandates the immediate stations, camps or PNP mask and face shield quarantine of PNP offices as potential carriers at the time of the close personnel who made of the coronavirus,” he contact will immediately be taken to quarantine close contact with any added. facilities,” Eleazar said. personnel tested positive The PNP earlier

Eleazar also for the virus. intensified its contactreminded all police

Eleazar, however, tracing efforts by requiring commanders and unit said only those who would all PNP personnel to have heads to ensure that the be found not wearing a Close Contact Diary minimum health safety face mask and face using notebook or their standard protocols are shield at the time of the smartphones. The Close always observed in their close contact with Covid- Contact Diary contains respective stations and infected personnel are the names of the people offices. (PNA)

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| January 9-15, 2021

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