Caraga InFocus –July 30-August 5, 2022 by Caraga InFocus

Volume V1, No. 31 July 30-Aug. 5, 2022

INFOCUS

ARTICLES

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PROVINCIAL NEWS Scouting Integration Bill Filed in Congress Former Rebels in AgNor Receive Livelihood Settlement Grant POPCOM courts LGUs on program localization Coffee Processing sa Casiklan, Las Nieves, giturn-over na Seedlings alang sa tree planting ubos sa cash-for-work scheme, miabot na

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22 Kapin 200 ka mga mag-uuma misalmot sa Agriboost Farmers Field Day on Vegetable Production Technologies Kasaulogan sa Symbolic 100Mth Filipino, gipahigayon POPCOM gikombinsi mga LGUs sa lokalisasyon na programa Popcom nagpasabot sa pagbalhin sa programa sa LGUs Adolescent mothers nakadawat og financial nga assistance DTI Dinagat Islands intensifies Fair Trade Law, R.A 9211 monitoring in the province DOST-SDN inks MOA with DGT Graphics and Prints in Siargao Island for a P1.2M SETUP Project

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DOST-SDN boosts metals and engineering MSMEs in Surigao del Norte with training on metal fabrication and cost estimation DOST-SDN upskills Cutom Mamanwa Tribal Organization (CUMATO) in Alegria on Gemstone Processing and Product Development RCPC conducted field monitoring and surveillance of Faw pest in Carrascal CNC top management, LGU-Carrascal to collab for sustainable livelihood programs SurSur Coop honors linemen as they join 3rd Linemen Appreciation Day celeb SURSECO-I pays tribute to its Linemen through the celebration of Appreciation Day Carac-an Watershed Forest Reserves gilauman nga ediklara isip Protected Area sa SurSur Carrascalanon ranks 3rd for Outstanding Rural Women 2022 in Caraga

NATIONAL NEWS PBBM forms team to look into devolution, LGUs prudent use of enhanced IRA from Mandanas ruling PBBM says gov’t moving to simplify tax system PBBM urges LGUs to be ‘open to the possibilities’ of PPP; cites need for digitalization PBBM assures poll workers of continued gov’t support despite veto Get booster jabs to help end pandemic, PBBM tells Pinoys

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COVID-19 NEWS Prioritization no longer observed in Covid-19 vax: DOH 365K booster doses administered via PinasLakas drive Covid-19 alert levels remain ‘status quo’: Palace

COVER

CONTENTS

Caraga

238 AgNor PWDs to benefit free operations Tejano.

Maria Alyssa Intong from Barangay Comagascas, Cabadbaran City of the province of Agusan del Norte, one of the PWDs is grateful to the provincial government for facilitating this kind of program for the PWDs. She also hopes that the provincial government will continue to conduct this kind of activity, so other PWDs like her can also avail and benefit of the free services. Also, Edmar Pimontil from Cabadbaran City is hopeful that Tebow Cure Hospital will continue to help PWDs and will serve

By Nora CL Molde

Persons with disabilities (PWDs) from the different municipalities of the province of Agusan del Norte and Butuan City availed of the free bone screening and medical assessment facilitated by the Provincial Social Welfare

and Development Office (PSWDO) and conducted by Tebow Cure Hospital Medical Team from Davao City. PSWDO Agusan del Norte chief Dr. Silver Joy Tejano said, a total of 238 PWDs have

passed the screening and assessment and will benefit the free operations at Tebow Cure Hospital in Davao City. “The transportation of the PWDs in going to Davao City for their operations will be sponsored by

Caraga Infocus • July 30-Augus 5, 2022

more PWDs not only in Agusan del Norte but all PWDs who need their help and services. “It is a big help to us, all are free, from screening, assessment to operation, a big relief to us,” said Pimontil. Tebow Cure Hospital Social Services Director Rosemarie Baco, revealed that the team is tasked to visit different regions to offer the services of the hospital. In Caraga region, first visit was made to the of province of Agusan del Norte then followed by Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur. (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte)

their respective local government units,” Tejano added. The 238 PWDs who qualified the free operations include 177 with harelip/cleft palate, 17 with hernia condition, and 44 with orthopedic conditions, said Dr. Caraga Infocus • July 30-August 5, 2022

News Briefs Congressman Jose “Joboy” S. Aquino II collaborates with the regional directors and representatives of different national line agencies in Caraga Region at Hotel Oazis, Butuan City. xx

The Philippines is home to a variety of flora and fauna making it one of the 17 megadiverse countries in the world. In the Philippines, there are 79 listed bat species, of which 38 are endemic and at least 12 are threatened (11 of which are fruit bats). According to the country’s red list of the total bat species in the Philippines, 26 are from the Pteropodidae family known as fruit bats or flying foxes, of which 17 are endemic to the country. Persons with disabilities (PWDs) from the different municipalities of the province of Agusan del Norte and Butuan City availed of the free bone screening and medical assessment facilitated by the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) and conducted by Tebow Cure Hospital Medical Team from Davao City.

The government’s rightsizing plan on the bureaucracy may be contrary to beliefs that it is “retrenching” or “downsizing” government workers, said the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma, who urged state workers to be more positive about the plan.

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Scouting Integration Bill Filed in Congress to become responsible leaders in the future and contribute in nation building. The Scouting program through the BSP and GSP which are the largest youth organizations in the country, is seen as an effective program in the leadership and value formation of every child.

While there is an ongoing debate on mandatory ROTC in the academe, Agusan del Norte Representative Dale B. Corvera filed House Bill No. 3053 which seeks to integrate Scouting in the curriculum for elementary and junior high schools in the country including the private schools. “While Scouting in the Philippines is school based, and DepEd supports its revitalization, and even encourages its officials and schoolchildren to participate in Scouting

activities, it is not mandatory for all students to take up Scouting thus some schools have not offered Scouting at all, thereby denying the schoolchildren the benefits of Scouting”, Corvera laments. The proposed law once approved will make Scouting a regular subject in the curriculum and will put premium on the mandate of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines (BSP) and the Girl Scouts of the Philippines (GSP) to inculcate patriotism and nationalism in the youth while training them

The proposed measure also provides exemption from ROTC and other similar programs that may be created and implemented in the future for Scouts who shall reach the Eagle Scout Rank, the highest rank attainable in Scouting. Leading our young people to become Scouts is also leading their way to become responsible citizens of the future”, Corvera said. Corvera is a decorated Scout leader and the current National President of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines and Chairman of the Asia Pacific Regional Scout Committee of the World Organization of the Scout Movement. (CDO AND/ PIA Agusan del Norte)

Caraga Infocus • July 30-Augus 5, 2022

Former Rebels in AgNor Receive Livelihood Settlement Grant The 29th Infantry (Matatag) Battalion in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development and the Provincial Government of Agusan del Norte joined the “Livelihood Settlement Grant Releasing of funds to the Former Rebels”. Four Former Rebels (FR) from 29th Infantry “Matatag” Battalion received P20,000.00 each as source of fund to start their own livelihood that will serve as their source of income and to make them economically independent in going back to the community they choose to live. Benido Gumapac, an FR recipient said in a statement that after receiving the monetary assistance “Ako ning inegosyo nga kwarta aron mutubo ug aron dugang panginabuhian. Dako gyud nakong pasalamat sa DSWD ug kay Gov Angel kay gikan ko sa walang-wala gyud, unya gitabangan ko nila nga mubakod. Gitabangan gyud ko sa gobyerno. Busa akong ginahangyo kadtong mga kanhi nakong kauban dinha sa bukid nga munaog na kay sama nako tabangan ta sa gobyerno.” (“I will use the money to fund a business that will serve as my source of income. I am very grateful to the DSWD and to Gov. Angel because I have nothing and they helped me to start my means of living. Because of this, I am pleading to my former colleagues to

surrender because like me, the government is really committed to help.”) According to Director Ramel Jamen in his message to the Former Rebels “Among gidahom nga masulbad ni atong problema sa kalisod, aron dili namo mubalik pa sa bukid, aron mas matabangan mo namo. Ang kalisod masulbad sa maayong desisyon ug diskarte. Naa na sa inyo ang pagpaningkamot karon kay kami kanunay mag agak sa inyo.” ( We are hoping that we can solve this problem so that you will not come back to the mountains and so that we can help you out. All difficulties can be solved through wise actions. You have to be industrious and we will guide and support you.”) Col Jason M Saldua extended his message to the FRs in his statement “Kami mga

Caraga Infocus • July 30-August 5, 2022

kasunduluhan ninyo sa 29IB, makapasalig gyud mi sa inyong seguridad ug among giya aron matabangan gyud mo sa inyong pagbag-ong kinabuhi tungod ani akong ginahangyo pag-usab ang mga igsoon nato nga naa pa dinha sa bukid nga munaog na kay naghulat mi inyong pamilya ug ang inyong gobyerno sa inyong pagbalik.” (The 29IB troopers, can guarantee your security and will guide you, so that we can help you in your endeavor to come back into the mainstream society and enjoy a peaceful and harmonious life with your family and love ones. By this, I am once again calling our misguided brothers that are still in the Communist Terrorist Group organization that the government is aspiring your return to the folds of law”) (2Lt. Rose Ann Mae U. Cordova (QMS) PA, 29IB PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)

POPCOM courts LGUs on program localization also guided the LCEs on how to assume the population and development services, Family Planning (FP) services and services for the welfare of children and adolescents starting 2022 in the light of the full devolution as mandated by the Supreme Court (SC) ruling on MandanasGarcia petition. RD Makinano is hopeful that the said services will The Commission gave orientation-briefing be prioritized and will on Population and among the Sangguniang get increased support and commitment from Development Caraga Panlalawigan, the LCEs and other presents the localization Sangguniang stakeholders. The director strategy of the Panglungsod, and cited that DBM Local Philippine Population Sangguniang Bayan and Development members in session from Budget Memorandum Program (PPDP) in the different provinces, (LBM) No. 82 provides the compliance to the cities, and municipalities National Tax Allotment Department of Budget in the region to support (NTA) which shall be and Management (DBM) the program thrusts and used to fund the full approved POPCOM direction of the PPDP devolution of the basic Devolution Transition within the context of services of the National Plan (DTP) to the local devolution as prescribed Government Agencies government units (LGUs) by Executive Order 138 (NGAs) with approved of Caraga region. and its IRR. An ordinance DTP. template was also POPCOM Caraga endorsed to the LGUs As of this writing, DBM Regional Director for the establishment has approved the DTP Alexander A. Makinano of population and of only two NGAs, which and his senior staff development office of POPCOM is one. (Dian conducted a briefing the LGUs. to the Local Chief Joy L. Martinez, POPCOM Executives (LCEs) and The said orientation Caraga/PIA Caraga)

Caraga Infocus • July 30-Augus 5, 2022

Coffee Processing sa Casiklan, Las Nieves, giturn-over na Gi turn-over sa Probinsyal nga Panggamahan sa Agusan del Norte ug Department of Agriculture (DA) - Caraga Region ang usa ka Coffee Processing o ang proyektong Green Coffee Beans Production and Marketing ngadto sa Casiklan Wheels Farmers Association Inc. (CAWFAI) sa Brgy. Casiklan sa lungsod sa Las Nieves. Nanguna sa pagturn-over si Provincial Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante, Congressman Dale B. Corvera sa ikaduhang distrito, DA Regional Director Ricardo M. Oñate Jr. uban ni Las Nieves Municipal Mayor Karen Rosales ug Vice Mayor Virgilio Escaseñias. Ang maong proyekto maoy labing gikinahanglan nga pasilidades sa mga maguuma sa Casiklan alang maproseso ang ilang abot nga uma sa kape. Ang CAWFAI, usa sa mga organisasyon nga gisuportahan ug gipahiluna sa probinsya pinaagi sa programang AGUSAN UP! ubos sa Process! Process! Process! ang kaluhang proyekto sa Plant! Plant! Plant! ug pinaagi niini, makab-ot ang panglantaw sa probinsya nga mahimong “Agri-Processing Center sa Caraga Region.” Kaabag usab sa probinsya ang DA-Caraga Region.

Daku ang pagpasalamat ug kalipay ang nabati ni Gregorio Buntag, Chairman sa CAWFAI uban sa 293 ka mga membro niini human sa pagdawat sa maong proyekto. Alang kanila, daku kaayo kini nga tabang sa ilang organisasyon nga ma-proseso ang ilang abot sa uma sa kape ug mamarket ang ilang produkto. Gawas niini nga processing center, mi-komiter usab si Gob. Angel Amante nga padayon niya suportahan ug dugangan pa ang mga lain pang panginahanglanon sa maong organisasyon sulod sa tulo ka tuig. Hangyo lang sa gobernador nga padayon ang pagkugi sa matag usa aron ma-sustener ang ilang produksyon. Nalipay usab si Kong. Dale Corvera tungod natuman

Caraga Infocus • July 30-August 5, 2022

na gyud ang dugay ng damgo sa probinsya human sa pagpaningkamot sa mga lideres nga matagaan kini og pundo nga proyekto agi og suporta usab sa DA-Caraga. Pasabot sa kongresista ang importansya sa maong proyekto tungod nakita niya nga kung adunay processing center, adunay ma mugna nga trabaho ug madugangan ang ilang kita. Ang maong proyekto mo kabat sa kapin Php19 milyones ubos sa panudlanan sa probinsya ug nasyonal nga pang gobyerno. Gi-turnover sa maong organisasyon ang balor Php8 milyones nga proyektong Community Based Coffee Enterprise Development Project gikan sa DA-Caraga. (KKD, LGU Agusan del Norte/ PIA Agusan del Norte)

Seedlings alang sa tree planting ubos sa cash-for-work scheme, miabot na

Kapin 200 ka mga mag-uuma misalmot sa Agriboost Farmers Field Day on Vegetable Production Technologies Miabot na ang nagkadaiyang mga seedlings alang sa gikatakdang tree planting activity pinaagi sa cash-forwork scheme ubos sa Risk Resiliency ProgramClimate Change and Mitigation-Disaster Risk Reduction [RRP-CCAMDRR] sa Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) nga nag-apil og partnership tali sa probinsya diha sa pagpananum og kahoy ubos sa Lunhaw’ng Agusan Program sa

AGUSAN UP!. Mokabat sa 9,600 ka seedlings nga fruit ug forest trees ang miabot niadtong Hulyo 29, sama sa Molave - 1250, Red lawaan - 1250, Narra - 1000, Durian - 1700, Rambutan - 2200 ug Lanzones - 2200. Laing 3,500 nga Palawan Cherry usab ang ihatod sunod semana. Ang maong seedlings, ipang apod-apod ngadto sa nagkadaiyang barangay

sa lungsod sa Carmen, Nasipit, Jabonga, Kitcharao, Santiago, RTR, Magallanes ug Las Nieves. Gipunting nga matamnan ang 23,000 ektaryas nga parte sa protection areas sa probinsya sa Agusan del Norte aron mapabaskug ug ma-protektahan ang kinaiyahan. Gihimo usab kini aron maka mugna og trabaho sa nasangpit nga mga lugar. (LGU Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)

Caraga Infocus • July 30-Augus 5, 2022

Gipahigayon ang Agriboost Farmers Field Day on Vegetable Production Technologies sa pagpanguna sa Butuan City Agriculturist Office uban sa mga seeds company nga boluntaryong nagdemo sa ilang mga vegetable production protocols kaniadtong lunes, August 1. Gisalmutan kini sa kapin 200 ka mga mag-uuma sa syudad. Ang aktibidad gipahigayon aron ang tanan maka obserba, makatandi ug makadayeg sa nagkalainlaing gipakitang vegetable agribusiness model asa pwedeng makopya o masundog sa komunidad. Katuyuan sab niini aron mapalambo ang kapasidad isip mga mag-uuma sa gulay sa ingon mutaas ang lokal vegetable production, mutaas ang kita sa matag panimalay ug makab-ot ang food

security sa matag pamilya. Nagpasalamat ang usa ka mag-uuma ug Nongnong Farmers Association Chairman nga si Shiela Maglines sa kahigayunang nakatuon pinaagi sa FFS tungod nakatunan niini ang mga bag-ong teknolohiya nga makatabang sa iyang kaumahan. Mahinumduman nga gimugna ang Farmers Field School kun FFS sa pagpanguna sa City Agriculturist Office bulan sa Mayo tuig 2022 nga molungtad hangtud bulan sa Septyembre tuig 2022. Kini aron masayran ang katakus ug kaalam sa mga mag-uuma sa vegetable production ug pinaagi niini madugangan ug mapalambo pa ang kahibalo alang sa malahutayong panguma. Mitambong sa Farmers Field Day sila City Councilor Arturo Gado Committee Chair on

Caraga Infocus • July 30-August 5, 2022

Agriculture, Fisheries and Agro-Forestry, Konsehal Cherry May Busa Committee Chair on Science and Technology, Konsehal Rey Desiata Committee Chair on Urban Planning and Infrastructure, Caraga State University, DTI,DOST, DA Caraga ug uban pang mga bisita nga mipasalig sa padayong pagpadako sa suporta sa sektor sa mga mag-uuma aron magmalahutayon ang tanang programa ug proyekto nga nasugdan. Kini nga kalihokan usa sa pagpatuman sa Agriboost Project nga nagpakita sa lainlaing vegetable production nga misunod sa bag-ong teknolohiya asa hugtanung gisuportahan ni Mayor Ronnie Vicente Lagnada pinaagi sa City Agriculturist Office. (Butuan City PIO/PIA Agusan del Norte)

Kasaulogan sa Symbolic 100Mth Filipino, gipahigayon 100 nga simbolikong mga bata. “We aim to provide quality life for these babies, now children, and make every Filipino count in the progress and development of the country as the population increases rapidly every year,” dugang pa ni Usec. Perez.

Ang symbolic 100 millionth nga mga baby mamahimo nang walo (8) ka tuig kaniadtong July 27, 2014, nga timailhan sa kasaulogan karong tuiga diin naka sentro sa tema nga, “Bigyang Halaga ang Bawat Pinoy sa Pagunlad Ngayon at Bukas! Sa Ika-Walong Taon: Edukasyon at Kalusugan, Palakasin Bilang Saligan ng Kaunlaran.” Sigun sa POPCOM, nagpabiling hagit sa gobyerno ang pagkahimugso sa ika-100 ka milyon nga bata tungod kay maka dugang kini sa kapasidad sa

Base sa Census sa Pilipinas tuig 2021, ang pamilya sa paghatag populasyon miabot na sa panginahanglan sa edukasyon, pagkaon, ug sa 111,046,913 nga naay maayong panglawas sa growth rate nga 1.39% ilang mga anak. Dugang ug nagpadayon ug sa ahensya nga kini nga kadaghan sukad pa sa mga tuig 1970s. kalihokan ang matud pa nanawagan sa paghatag ug aktibo nga Walo ka tuig na pagtagad sa edukasyon ang milabay sukad ug maayong panglawas, ang Commission on Population and nga mamahimong Development mibisita sa pundasyon sa mga ospital, lying-in ug kalambuan sa pamilya birthing clinics sa tibuuk ug komunidad. Pilipinas aron mailhan ang ika-100Mth nga mga Si POPCOM Executive baby nga mahimong Director Undersecretary Dr. Juan Antonio A. Perez simbolo sa 100 million nga populasyon sa III naghatag og gibugaton sa pagtinabangay nasod. (Gabrielle Paolo M. Mordeno, POPCOM sa pagpangita sa mas Caraga/PIA Agusan del maayong kalidad Norte) sa kinabuhi alang sa Caraga Infocus • July 30-Augus 5, 2022

POPCOM gikombinsi mga LGUs sa lokalisasyon na programa LCEs gigiyahan usab sa maong orientasyon og unsaon pag-abaga ang mga serbisyo sa population and development, Family planning services ug serbisyo para sa kaayohan sa mga bata ug mga kabatan-onan sugod 2022 sa kasamtangan nga debolusyon sa gimando na Supreme Court (SC) ruling sa petisyon sa MandanasGarcia. Ang Commission on Population and Development Caraga nagpasabot sa mga stratehiya sa lokalisasyon sa Philippine Population and Development Program (PPDP) sa pagsunod sa giaprobahan nga POPCOM Devolution Transition Plan (DTP) sa Department of Budget and Management (DBM) sa mga local government units (LGUs) sa rehiyon sa Caraga. Ang POPCOM Caraga nga gipangunahan ni Regional Director Alexander A. Makinano ug ang iyang mga senior staff nagpahigayon og orientasyon sa mga Local

Chief Executives (LCEs) ug pahimatngon sa mga membro sa Sangguniang Panlalawigan, Sangguniang Panglungsod ug Sangguniang Bayan sa sesyon sa konseho sa lain-lain na probinsiya, siyudad ug munisipiyo sa rehiyon para suportahan ang program thrusts and direction sa PPDP sulod sa konteksto sa debulosyon ingon sa gimando sa Executive Order 138 ug ang IRR niini. Ang template sa ordinansa gi-endorso usab sa mga LGUs para sa pagtukod og opisina sa population and development sa matag LGUs. Dugang pa, ang mga

Caraga Infocus • July 30-August 5, 2022

Malaumon si RD Makinano nga ang mga giingong serbisyo hatagan og prayoridad ug makakuha ug dugang suporta ug pasalig gikan sa mga LCEs ug mga stakeholders. Gikutlo ni Director nga ang DBM Local Budget Memorandum (LBM) No. 82 naghatag og National Tax Allotment (NTA) nga gamiton sa pagpundo sa bug-os na debolusyon sa mga basic services para sa mga National Government Agencies (NGAs) nga adunay approved DTP. Ang POPCOM usa sa mga NGAs nga adunay approved DTP sa DBM sa pagkakaron. (Dian Joy L. Martinez, POPCOM Caraga/PIA Caraga)

Popcom nagpasabot sa pagbalhin sa programa sa LGUs Sa laing bahin, si POPCOM Caraga Regional Director Alexander A. Makinano gibisita usab ang mga lokal nga kagamhanan sa San Miguel ug San Agustin, Surigao del Sur. Gi presentar ni RD Makinano sa Municipal Administrator sa San Miguel ang PPDP localization ug ang importansya sa paghimo ug Municipal Population and Development Office o MPDO base sa DBM-approved Devolution Transition Plan.

Ang Commission on Population and Development Caraga Region nagpasabot sa mga Local Chief Executives sa Siargao Island ug Surigao del Sur sa lokalisasyon sa Philippine Population and Development Program o PPDP thrusts and directions 2022-2028 pinaagi sa Devolution Transition Plan sa POPCOM nga aprobado sa Department of Budget and Management.

Allocation sa mga LGUs pinasikad sa Department of Budget and Management Local Budget Memorandum No. 82.

Si Rosalia G. Climaco, Assistant Regional Director sa POPCOM Caraga, ug May Ann O. Escobal, Information Officer I, gi presenta sa mga Mayor, Vice Mayor ug mga myembro sa Sanguniang Bayan sa San Isidro ug General Luna ang DTP sa POPCOM pinasikad sa Ang POPCOM naghangyo Executive Order (EO) 138 sa mga opisyal sa lokal nga ug Implementing Rules and kagamhanan nga dugangan Regulations niini. Giadtuan ang pundo para sa Family usab nila ang Dapa, Burgos, Planning, Population and Santa Monica, ug San Benito Development, ug programa aron ipasabot ang POPCOM sa kaayuhan sa children Devolution Transition Plan sa ug adolescent gikan sa mga lider sa maong mga nadawat nga National Tax lokal nga kagamhanan.

Malampuson usab ang pagbisita ni RD Makinano sa San Agustin, Surigao del Sur. Mapasalamaton si RD Makinano kang Honorable Mayor Nick Alameda sa pasalig niini nga pagendorso sa Sanguniang Bayan sa San Agustin nga gipangunahan ni Honorable Vice Mayor Alex De Guzman ang pag pasar sa ordinansa nga mag tukod ug Municipal Population and Development Office sa maong munisipyo. Sa laing bahin, gibisita ni Nashville B. Pasaylo, Planning Officer II, ang lokal nga kagamhanan sa Cantilan, Surigao del Sur ug gi presenta kang Honorable Mayor Philip A. Pechay ug sa mga miyembro sa Sanguniang Bayan ang PPDP localization. (Gabrielle Paolo M. Mordeno, POPCOM Caraga/PIA Caraga)

Caraga Infocus • July 30-Augus 5, 2022

Adolescent mothers nakadawat og financial nga assistance Nakadawat og pinansyal nga assistance ang mga adolescent mothers ubos sa programa nga Social Protection Program for Adolescent Mothers and their Children sa Barangay Doongan Covered Court, ning syudad kaniadtong Hulyo 28. Gihatagan og prayoridad sa programa ang mga batan ong inahan ug ilang mga anak aron mahatagan og suporta bisan paman sa ilang sitwasyon ug dunay access sa oportunidad sama na sa edukasyon, trainings, ug health nga mahimung tulay nga mapalambo ang ilang sitwasyon. 50 ka mga adolescent mothers gikan sa managlahing Barangay ang nakabenepisyo sa pinansyal nga tabang. Gihimung pilot testing ang Butuan ug Cabadbaran sa nasangpit nga programa. Sa mensahe nga gipaabot ni Konsehal Cherry Mae Busa, Committee sa Family, Women, and Children’s Welfare, giawhag niya ang mga adolescent mothers sa pagpadayon sa kinabuhi

bisan paman sa sitwasyon. Gipahinumduman sab niini nga dili maundang ang kinabuhi tungod lamang kay duna silay anak gani mas kinahanglan pa nila maningkamot aron mapalambo nila ang ilang kinabuhi ug makab-ot ang ilang damgo. Ang matag benepisyaryo makadawat og tag 500 pesos matag bulan. Duna silay icomply nga mga certificate nga nagpamatoud nga ni eskwela sila pag balik, duna silay gi apilan nga trainings, ug check up sa health center. Gawas sa

Caraga Infocus • July 30-August 5, 2022

500 pesos, nakadawat sab og bugas, de lata ug tubig ang mga benepisyaryo. Kauban sa Commission on Population and Development Caraga Region, ang City Population Office ang City Health Office, City Social Welfare and Development Office, PhilHealth, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), sa pagpatuman sa programa. Molungtad ang programa hangtud Disyembre 2022. (Butuan City PIO/PIA Agusan del Norte)

DTI Dinagat Islands intensifies Fair Trade Law, R.A 9211 monitoring in the province

DOST-SDN inks MOA with DGT Graphics and Prints in Siargao Island for a P1.2M SETUP Project

The Department of Trade and Industry- Province of Dinagat Islands has intensified its Fair Trade Law (FTL) monitoring and posting of RA 9211, also known as “Tobacco Regulation Act of 2013,” in Barangay Tag-abaca, Sto. Niño, Diegas, and Ritaglenda in the Municipality of Basilisa, this province.

The Department of Science and Technology – (DOST) Caraga through its Provincial Science and Technology Center – Surigao del Norte (PSTC-SDN) recently confirmed a Memorandum of Agreement with DGT Graphics and Prints in Siargao Island, this province. The project entitled “Production Capacity Upgrading of DGT Graphics & Prints through Science and Technology Intervention” has an approved project cost amounting to P1.2 million under the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP).

According to DTI Dinagat Islands Provincial Director Elmer Natad, a total of thirty-four stores were visited and sixteen stores were monitored for FTL compliance, and eighteen stores were posted with RA 9211. He said all monitored stores for FTL were found compliant and the departmenmt intensified the conduct of monitoring to ensure the safety of the consumers in using products with mandatory certification.

“On the other hand, the posting of RA 9211 aims to inform the public, especially tobacco retailers, that selling tobacco to children

ages 18 or below is illegal.” Natad added. (Susil D. Ragas, PIADinagat Islands/DTIDinagat Islands)

Caraga Infocus • July 30-Augus 5, 2022

DGT Graphics and Prints started its operation in 2018 as a sole proprietorship owned by Mrs. Bebiana L. Camingue and managed by her son, Mr. Daniel Adrian L. Camingue. The business offers various printing services to a wide market since it is strategically located in the heart of the tourism area in Siargao Island. The firm’s services include vinyl stickers printing, document printing, photo printing, vellum printing, newsletter printing, sublimation printing, lamination, and it also

accepts embroidery work orders for uniforms which are outsourced from Surigao City. Mr. Camingue recognized the high demand for embroidered prints in the area and took advantage by accepting these orders even if he has to outsource. He also noted the increasing number of events in the island which required bulk orders of shirts like fun run and other gatherings. As a ray of hope, the firm decided to seek assistance from DOST to avail of the SETUP Innovation Fund (iFund) for the procurement of a sublimation printer and embroidery machine that will address the firm’s technological gaps and

Caraga Infocus • July 30-August 5, 2022

increase the productivity and efficiency of its overall operations through equipment upgrading. During the MOA signing, DOST-Surigao del Norte and DGT Graphics and Prints pledged to extend their full support and commitment for the effective implementation of the aforementioned SETUP project. We are also inviting interested MSMEs in the province to avail of the SETUP Program. Message our page Department of Science and Technology - Surigao del Norte to know more about the benefits, requirements, and identified priority sectors. (DOST- SDN/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

DOST-SDN boosts metals and engineering MSMEs in Surigao del Norte with training on metal fabrication and cost estimation

The Department of Science and Technology – Surigao del Norte conducted a Virtual Technology Training on Metal Fabrication and Cost Estimation for Machining Jobs for the micro, small, and medium enterprises in the metals and engineering sector of the province in partnership with the DOST-Metals Industry Research and Development Center (MIRDC) on July 27, 2022 via Zoom. The technology training was conducted to further improve the knowledge and skills of the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program

by technology-based enterprises assisted through SETUP namely SRS Industrial Trading, Sunexo Industrial Resources, Ever Machine Shop, Alpha Kairos Omega (ALKO) Engineering and Metal Works, Arriba Steel Industries, RSY Multi Trade Shop, 4JC Electrical and Machining Services, and (SETUP) -assisted firms on metal fabrication and cost REV-ANN Iron Works. estimation and gain an in-depth understanding for Researchers from the Surigao del Norte State those who are exploring University – Surigao City for business opportunities Campus also joined the in the metals and said training. engineering industry. During the training, Engr. Jose D. Berces III, Production Estimator II from DOST-MIRDC discussed the proper cost estimation for machining jobs — from factors to consider, basic steps in cost estimation, cost elements, down to the computation of machining and labor cost, among others. The training was attended

For more updates, just follow the official Facebook page: Department of Science and Technology - Surigao del Norte and Instagram account: www.instagram. com/dost.sdn and be updated of Science & Technology trainings with e-certificates because with DOST, learnings and opportunities never stop. (DOST-SDN/PIA- Surigao del Norte)

Caraga Infocus • July 30-Augus 5, 2022

DOST-SDN upskills Cutom Mamanwa Tribal Organization (CUMATO) in Alegria on Gemstone Processing and Product Development The Department of Science and Technology - Surigao del Norte has successfully conducted the Technology Training on Gemstone Processing and Product Development for fashion accessories and souvenir items from July 27 to 28, 2022 held in Barangay Ombong, Alegria, this province. The conduct of the said training is in collaboration with the DOST - Metals Industry Research and Development Center (MIRDC). The main objective of the twoday technology training is to provide sustainable livelihood opportunity for the Cutom Mamanwa Tribal Organization (CUMATO) through the precious and semi-precious gemstone minerals available in the locality. The project was initiated by the organization spearheaded by its President, Mr. Edgar S. Tabacon, in partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), and LGUAlegria thru its Municipal Tourism Office. Engr. Francisco C. Dime, gemstone processing expert from DOST-MIRDC, imparted his knowledge on how to identify precious and semi-precious gemstones.

He further discussed different gemstone processes and its applications. Together with Mr. Alfred M. Tujon, welding technician from DOST-MIRDC, Engr. Dime demonstrated the operation of equipment provided by DOLE through its DOLE Kabuhayan Program. The technologies granted include the slabbing and grinding machine, ultrasonic drilling machine, vibratory tumbler, polishing machine, and gemstone faceting machine. During the training, all participants were able to experience hands-on operation of the equipment and produced polished cabochon and faceted gems with variety of shapes and sizes. These

Caraga Infocus • July 30-August 5, 2022

quality products of cabochon and faceted gems can be used as inlays for rings, earrings, bracelets/bangles, necklaces, and other accessories. The members of the Cutom Mamanwa Tribal Organization (CUMATO) expressed their gratitude and appreciation for the knowledge and skills they gained through the capacity building activity. DOST-Surigao del Norte continuously provides science and technology interventions and empowers communities in remote areas of the province towards economic progress. To know more about our programs and projects, follow and like our official Facebook page Department of Science and Technology - Surigao del Norte. (DOST- SDN/PIA- Surigao del Norte)

CNC top management, LGU-Carrascal to collab for sustainable livelihood programs

RCPC conducted field monitoring and surveillance of Faw pest in Carrascal

The personnel of Regional Crop Protection Center (RCPC) conducted a field monitoring and surveillance of Fall Armyworm (FAW) infestation in farm-corn areas of Barangay Bacolod and Tag-anito on August 3, 2022.

The Municipal Agriculture Office (MAO) of the Local Government Unit of Carrascal, through the Corn sector, seeks assistance from RCPC since there are reports from the farmers about the rapid infestation of FAW in the corn areas of the municipality.

FAW is a highly migratory pest known to infest corn fields in Caraga region nowadays, as it can travel at 100 kilometers per night across the strong winds and prefers to eat maize specifically, the hybrid and openpollinated varieties.

The LGU-Carrascal and the corn sector are glad as the RCPC immediately responded with their call and deployed their personnel namely: Maricel Didal, Arlyn Cabalinan, Flora Galanida, Ryan Mark Curada and John Mark Improso.

The team immediately conducted intensive monitoring and surveillance earlier today. Based on the report, RCPC provided the control measures in containing the pestoccurrence in the said farm-corn areas. Insecticides and biocontrol agents were also given to the farm owner with guided technical advice required to control infestation and spread of FAW. (FITS Center, Carrascal/PIA Surigao del Sur)

Caraga Infocus • July 30-Augus 5, 2022

The top management officials of Carrascal Nickel Corporation (CNC) headed by Engr. Noel C. Bombarda together with Engr. Lester Q. MarquesesResident Mine Manager, Mr. Ray Carullus Lantion - Community Relations Head, and party visited the Municipal Agriculture Office to discuss possible livelihood interventions. The collaboration focused on the funding for farmers and fisherfolk of the municipality under the Social Development and Management Program (SDMP) for the year 2023. The topics tackled during the visit were on linkages and another collaborative effort between the company and

the local government unit. Mr. Japhet C. Sugian, Municipal Agriculturist explained the direction of the present administration headed by Mayor Vicente H. Pimentel, III, for them to know the priorities of the LGUs for their constituents. According to Suhian, the agri- fishery services must look into a higher perspective taking into consideration, commodity clustering and other value-adding concepts in terms of engaging sustainable livelihood, formulating a consolidated agri-fishery production, and market linkages to ensure income. The company is very much willing to collaborate, thus,

Caraga Infocus • July 30-August 5, 2022

providing funding to bigticket projects aligned with the priorities of the present leadership. They need to tap the LGU for more comprehensive and strategic livelihood programs in a long-term approach. The company also follows the LGU livelihood framework guided by the proposed Programs, Projects, and Activities (PPAs) in the Devolution Transition Plan (DTP) under MandanasGarcia ruling which reflects that the identification of livelihood projects must be aligned to ensure project/ program sustainability to benefit the targeted recipients. (MAO, LGUCarrascal/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

SurSur Coop honors linemen as they join 3rd Linemen Appreciation Day celeb By: Nida Grace P. Barcena

The Surigao del Sur Electric Cooperative-2 Inc. (SURSECO 2), honors the efforts and dedication of its linemen who ensure the availability of power to more than 13 million member-consumerowners (MCOs) on August 1. The activity was also in line with the 3rd Linemen Appreciation Day hosted by the Philippine Rural Electric Cooperatives Association, Inc. (PHILRECA) which was joined by the 121 electric cooperatives throughout the country. (SURSECO-2)

SURSECO-I pays tribute to its Linemen through the celebration of Appreciation Day

photo credit to SURSECO II

spearheaded by SURSECO was also conducted on the same day.

Meanwhile, the linemen received surprise appreciation from The event was highlighted by the Virtual their loved ones that boosted their morale 2022 Gawad Parangal and motivated them to Para sa Natatanging continue and love their Linemen and Short work. Webinar facilitated by PHILRECA. The Workshop on Linemen Appreciation The “Linemen Appreciation Day” is an and Customer Service activity spearheaded Protocol, followed by the Awarding Ceremony by the Philippine Rural

Electric Cooperatives Association, Inc. (PHILRECA), in recognition of all the linemen working in the electric distribution utility sector. To recall, PHILRECA filed a bill in Congress last August 2020 entitled House Bill 472, or an “Act Proclaiming the First Monday of August of Every Year as Linemen Appreciation Day”. (PIASurigao del Sur)

Caraga Infocus • July 30-Augus 5, 2022

The Surigao del Sur Electric Cooperative-I (SURSECO-I) pays tribute to the hard work and dedication of the Warriors of Light through the conduct of the Linemen Appreciation Day on August 1, 2022 held at the Member Consumer Owners Center in Bislig City. The cooperative’s very own Mga Sundalo ng Pailaw attended a half-day virtual event facilitated by the Philippine Rural Electric Cooperative Association (PHILRECA) on the same day. The linemen heard

various messages from speakers in the field of Rural Electrification. They also participated in a short webinar where they learned their significance and relevance in the energy sector and the need to address career advancement through the professionalization of the Electrical Cooperative linemen. After lunch, the linemen were re-oriented on the different discussions on the operation of the Cooperative. Thereafter, General Manager Moralda shared an Inspiration Message and presented the Certificates of

Caraga Infocus • July 30-August 5, 2022

Appreciation. And just in time for their special day, safety personal equipment such as safety shoes, hard hats, and reflectorized vests were distributed to them. The tribute may just be a simple way to celebrate their contribution to rural electrification but this is also a manifestation of sincerest appreciation to them as they brave the heat, rain, and storms just to keep the power on and continue the good service our memberconsumer-owners deserve. (SURSECO-I/PIASurugao del Sur)

Carac-an Watershed Forest Reserves gilauman nga ediklara isip Protected Area sa SurSur

Carrascalanon ranks 3rd for Outstanding Rural Women 2022 in Caraga

Ang Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) - Caraga pinaagi sa Community Environment and Natural Resources (CENRO) – Cantilan, Surigao del Sur buot magpahibalo sa publiko nga ang Carac-an Watershed Forest Reserves o CFWR gilauman nga ideklarar isip usa ka Protected Area. Ang CFWR gikataho nga adunay 43,601 ka hectarya ang gilapdun niini, nga mamahimong mokwalipikado sa kategoryang Protected Landscape sa Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System (ENIPAS). Ang nahimong resulta sa gihimong Protected Area Suitability Assessment (PASA) sa Carac-an Watershed Forest Reserves kon CWFR buot nga ipresentar sa katawhan pinaagi sa Public Consultation nga ipahigayon sa mga lungsod nga naglangkuban niini karun bulan sa Agosto 2022. Gilauman nga pinaagi niini, mapasabot ug masayran sa tanan katawhan, kung angayan himuon o i-establisyar ang CWFR isip usa ka Protected Area.

Ang public consultation ipahigayon sa Agosto 1718 sa lungsod sa Carrascal, Madrid, of Cantilan, Surigao del Sur, sumala pa sa CENRO-Cantilan. Kalabot niini, naga imbitar sa publiko ang buhatan sa CENRO-Cantilan sa pag partisipar o pakiglambigit sa “Public Consultation” nga pagahimoon sa mga musunod nga iskedyul: AUGUST 17, 2022 (Miyerkules) 9:00 am – 11:00 am, Brgy. Babuyan Covered Court, Brgy. Babuyan, Carrascal, Surigao del Sur; 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm, Brgy. Panikian Covered Court, Brgy. Panikian, Carrascal, Surigao del Sur. AUGUST 18, 2022 (Huwebes)

9:00 am – 11:00 am, Brgy. Bayogo Covered Court, Brgy. Bayogo, Madrid, Surigao del Sur; 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm, Brgy. Cabas-an Covered Court, Brgy. Cabas-an, Cantilan, Surigao del Sur. Para sa dugang kasayuran, mahimong mubisita sa buhatan sa DENR-CENRO Cantilan nga nahimutang sa Barangay Magosilom, Cantilan, Surigao del Sur, ug pakigkita kay DMO III Charles O. Sullano, Protected Area Superintendent (PASu) Designate, o mahimong magpadala og sulat gamit ang email add sa cenrocantilan@denr.gov.ph. (CENRO-Cantilan/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Caraga Infocus • July 30-Augus 5, 2022

The Department of Agriculture (DA) Caraga awarded Mrs. Emily P. Nimes, owner of Emily Integrated Farm located in Barangay Gamuton, Carrascal, of this province as the 3rd Place Winner in the Search for Outstanding Rural Women 2022 in the region. Said recognition is embodied in the Magna Carta for Women which recognizes women’s endeavor and contribution towards the

development of the agri- √ packs of assorted fisheries sector in their vegetable seeds such respective communities. as kalabasa, sitaw, kangkong, atsal, kamatis, Mrs. Nimes received the and others. following farming inputs as in-kind prizes, to wit: The LGU-Carrascal √ 20 heads (chicks) of and the Municipal free-range chicken; Agriculturist’s Office √ 20 seedlings of officials/employees guyabano; extended their warm √ 20 seedlings of jackfruit; congratulations to √ 10 seedlings of lemon; Mrs. Nimes for her √ 10 seedlings of contribution to the mangosteen; community and to the √ 1 bag of environment. (Carrascal vermicompost; FITS-Center/PIA Surigao √ 75 fruiting bags of del Sur) mushroom; and

Caraga Infocus • July 30-August 5, 2022

PBBM forms team to look into devolution, LGUs prudent use of enhanced IRA from Mandanas ruling

NATIONAL NEWS

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Tuesday said he formed a team headed by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) to look into issues of devolution and decentralization of the functions of the local and national governments arising from the implementation of the Mandanas-Garcia revenue allotment (IRA) ruling. for the 4th, 5th, and 6th Speaking during the class provinces or local gathering of the League government units (LGUs) of Cities of the Philippines and provide assistance to provinces that in Malacañang, Marcos narrated that he already operate hospitals but had extensive discussions don’t have funds. The remainder of the with Batangas Gov. IRA would be given Hermilando Mandanas according to the and the late Interior Secretary Jesse Robredo provisions of the Local Government Code that on the devolution varies depending on the issue, when he was LGUs, he said. chairman of the Senate Committee on Local However, there are Government. difficulties in applying the ruling to some cities, The original concept, and the decision-making he said, was to use was left at the discretion the additional internal Caraga Infocus • July 30-August 5, 2022

of local chief executives on how to apportion the money that is appropriated, according to the President. “But we are still continuing to look at it. Ang akin kasing tinitingnan is ano ba talaga ‘yung — what belongs to local government and what does not belong to local government,” he said. “Also, some of the functions that have been given to local governments, kung minsan hindi lang nagagawa dahil wala

tayong bagong item, wala tayong bagong pondo, wala naman tayong training sa kung ano man ‘yun,” he said. One example is the land use plan, he said, wherein several LGUs face difficulty in implementation because of the lack of money and qualified personnel, adding that the work could be given to the national government. School building repairs Marcos said another contentious issue is the repair of school buildings.

lang naman eh. Kung magtatayo — we can also send assistance.” These things have to be worked out, he said, adding that funding sources must also be identified. The President suggested, however, that the national government could provide additional allocation to the local governments that are mandated by law to conduct school building repairs.

“I was talking to Inday Sara the other day. Sabi ko, ‘paano gagawin natin kasi hindi pa maliwanag ‘yung repair of school buildings sino gagawa, sino magbabayad?’ And so, we were talking with Inday. And she said may budget ng konti ang DepEd but it’s not going to be enough,” he noted.

The Mandanas-Garcia ruling fully transfers or devolves the delivery of basic services to LGUs, stemming from a 2013 petition made by Governor Mandanas and former Bataan governor Enrique Garcia, Jr., together with other local elective officials, before the Supreme Court on LGU shares of the IRA.

“So, sabi ko why don’t we give the materials or the funding to the LGU. Kaya naman natin administration kung school building lang naman, simple

The SC affirmed the ruling in 2018, giving the LGUs a just share of all national taxes collected and not only from the Bureau of Internal Revenue effective 2022.

LGUs get their IRA from 40 percent of national internal revenue taxes collected by the BIR. With the SC ruling, LGUs are projected to increase the IRA by 27.61 percent.

PBBM says gov’ gov’t moving to simplify tax system

Marcos also said he hopes LGUs support the rightsizing thrust of the administration to attain efficiency. “Alam naman natin the bureaucracy kung minsan becomes inflated, becomes bloated and that’s what we mean by rightsizing, when I talked about rightsizing,” he said. “Ang ibig sabihin lang naman nu’n ay lahat ng tao, lahat ng staff niyo kailangan niyo talaga. Eh baka may matira diyan 15, 30 pero huwag na natin damihan. Let’s make them as streamlined as possible.” Digitalization will also play a very important part, he said, noting some of the cities have already taken the initiative and already started their implementation. | PND

Caraga Infocus • July 30-Augus 5, 2022

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Monday said the government is working towards the simplification of the country’s tax system.

issued the statement after he vetoed a bill granting tax exemptions to the honoraria, allowances, as well as other benefits given to election workers.

“So ganoon din ang iniisip namin kasi isipin ninyo we are trying to simplify ‘yung payment ng BIR (Bureau of Internal Revenue),” Marcos said in an interview during his visit to the vaccination site at Pasig City Sports Complex.

Marcos cautioned against the creation of a new tax category, noting that this would open the structure to leakage, confusion, and red tape.

The chief executive

“Ngayon kung lalagyan natin ng bagong kategorya ‘yan and there will be more chance of leakage,

Caraga Infocus • July 30-August 5, 2022

the confusion, mas mahirap gawin, eh mas magkakaproblema baka ‘yung iba, the red tape, makakain lang ng red tape ‘yan. So that’s one reason why we did not do it,” he said. Marcos, in his message to lawmakers, stated that the proposed bill “runs counter to the objective of the government’s Comprehensive Tax Reform Program to correct the inequity in the country’s tax system and negate the progressivity of the

reforms introduced under the Republic Act No. 10963 or TRAIN Law.” Despite the veto, the chief executive assured that his administration would still provide support to poll workers through targeted budgetary spending. Marcos likewise explained that the system of granting assistance or subsidies to Filipinos is already existing. “And then, doon tayo magdadagdag ng ayuda and we do not have to put a new section, a new category sa pagbayad ng tax

dahil ang sa pagbigay ng ayuda, ‘yung buong makinarya na pagbigay ng ayuda ay nandiyan na. Sasabihin na lang natin okay isama natin doon sa mga magiging beneficiary ang mga election workers,” he said. The President further noted that the government is banking on the national ID or the Philippine Identification System in streamlining the granting of assistance. “Para maging mas maayos ang pagbigay pati ng ayuda. ‘Yung

national ID we are counting on the national ID to help with that. Kung sakali hawak na nila ‘yung national ID, wala na. Hindi na sila mag-aapply, hindi na sila kahit na anong gagawin. Basta’t papadala na lang namin ‘yung ayuda,” he said.

PBBM urges LGUs to be ’open to the possibilities’’ of PPP; cites need for possibilities digitalization

you know that already. Local government generally cannot do it by itself. We have to find partners, we have to find local partners, we have to find investors. Sanay na kayo diyan,” he told local executives.

In his first State of the Nation Address, the President said the government expects to issue 30 million physical IDs and 20 million digital IDs by the end of 2022. “The target is to accomplish the issuance of about 92 million IDs by the middle of next year,” he said. | PND

He also encouraged local chief executives to become the “driving force” to promote economic transformation. President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos on Tuesday urged local government units to be open to public-private partnership (PPP) as a mode of financing for projects.

something like PPPs,” he said.

“I think this is the way forward, and I encourage all our local government units to be open to the possibilities of PPPs and to have private-public partnerships, especially in your areas,” he said in a meeting with members of the League of Cities of the Philippines.

“Marami ring opportunities especially sa infrastructure. Marami sa ating mga kaibigan na galing sa iba’t ibang bansa– lalo na nung nag-courtesy call sa atin ‘yung ambassador– marami silang ino-offer na tulong,” said Marcos.

Marcos said digitalization would play a big part in PPP, especially in pushing for economic recovery and digital transformation in the Philippines. “Digitalization is a going to be a very natural fit for

Caraga Infocus • July 30-Augus 5, 2022

Marcos said apart from pushing for digitalization, his administration would also put increased focus on infrastructure.

The chief executive said he had received offers to fund big-ticket projects, including official development assistance (ODA) and joint ventures. “May ODA, may private sector, joint venture… Well, you’re local government,

Caraga Infocus • July 30-August 5, 2022

“But even at the national level, we are encouraging it. I hope that you continue to do that and be the driving force behind our economic transformation. I have always said that some of the best talent in government is in the LGUs, in the cities, in the governors, in the mayors,” said Marcos. In his State of the Nation Address, the President bared the government’s bid to increase digital connectivity in the Philippines through the so-called “Broad Band ng Masa” project. Marcos has tasked Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Secretary Ivan Uy to deploy digital connectivity across the country’s various islands. | PND

PBBM assures poll workers of continued gov’ gov’t support despite veto

Get booster jabs to help end pandemic, PBBM tells Pinoys

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Monday said election workers will still get government support through targeted budgetary spending despite his veto of a bill seeking tax exemptions to the honoraria, allowances, and other benefits given to election workers.

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Monday appealed to the public to participate in the government’s COVID-19 booster rollout to avoid future lockdowns and help the country’s economic recovery.

Explaining his veto during the COVID-19 booster rollout in Pasig City, Marcos said his administration is trying to simplify tax payment and putting another tax category will create more chance of leakage, confusion, and burden for the tax bureau. Implementing the proposal will also create more problems and red tape, he told reporters. “But as a matter of principle, ang sinasabi ko hindi kasi pagka gumawa ka ng tax subsidy, hindi mo alam kung sino ang makakakuha dahil kahit ‘yung hindi nangangailangan, nakakakuha ng subsidy. Hindi naman dapat sila bigyan,” the President pointed out. Through targeted support, there is no need to put a new tax category, especially if the entire machinery of granting subsidies is in place, the President said, adding the national ID system will also be used to extend assistance. “Ngayon, hindi ibig sabihin nito na kinalimutan natin ‘yung ating mga election workers. Mayroon — babalikan natin sila pagka nagka-eleksyon,

eh ‘di titingnan natin sino ba talaga ang nagtrabaho? Ilang oras sila, ilang araw sila nagtrabaho dito? Ano ‘yung kanilang position? Sila‘yung nag-aano doon sa mga makina? Whatever it is,” Marcos explained. The Palace announced Saturday that the President vetoed House Bill No. 9652/ Senate Bill No. 2520 entitled “An Act Exempting from Income Taxation the Honoraria, Allowances, and other Financial Benefits of Persons Rendering Service During an Election Period.” In his message to lawmakers, the President said the measure runs counter to the objective of the Comprehensive Tax Reform Program “to correct the inequity in the country’s tax system and negate the progressivity of the reforms introduced under R.A. 10963 or the TRAIN law.”

“Moreover, the studies of pertinent government agencies on the revenue loss is too substantial an impact to be foregone,” he said. Although the President recognizes the intent of Congress to provide income tax exemption to persons serving an election, he said it will be inequitable to other individuals performing similar services. According to Marcos, providing additional support to any sector is best addressed through targeted budgetary spending rather than through the tax system. At the same time, the chief executive encouraged legislators to enact measures that are consistent with the thrust and commitment of the administration toward national economic recovery. | PND

Caraga Infocus • July 30-Augus 5, 2022

In his visit to Pasig City for the PinasLakas Booster Vaccination campaign, Marcos encouraged Filipinos to get the jabs and see to it that the booster rollout is properly implemented. “Kaya’t kailangan magpabakuna tayo nang mabuti dahil siguro naman nabalitaan na ninyo maraming mga variant eh ‘yung bakuna kung minsan kailangan isa pa para talagang tiyak tayo na hindi na tayo aabutan nung kahit na ano pang variant,” Marcos said. “Kaya’t kayo na nandito na na magpapa-booster na ay hikayatin ninyo ‘yung mga kasamahan ninyo, ‘yung pamilya ninyo lahat, sabihin ninyo lahat na magpa-booster na para hindi niyo na kailangan alalahanin itong COVID na ito para

masasabi natin dito sa Pilipinas ay tapos na,” he added.

tourism and allow school opening this August.

The ambitious campaign The President appealed aims to widen inoculation, to the public to have their especially by providing COVID-19 boosters and not boosters to senior citizens wait for cases to increase and other vulnerable further. groups while at the same time giving shots to Once the majority of children. the population is fully immunized, the coronavirus Joining the President were could be controlled, and Pasig City Rep. Roman there is no need for the Romulo, Department of government to implement Health Officer-In-Charge lockdowns, he said. Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire, Pasig Health officials see the City Mayor Vico Sotto, PinasLakas Booster and Pasig City Vice Mayor Vaccination campaign as Robert “Dodot” Jaworski Jr. a way to boost jobs and | PND

Caraga Infocus • July 30-August 5, 2022

Prioritization no longer observed in Covid-19 vax: DOH Prioritization of target population is no longer observed in the nationwide rollout of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccines, a health official said Friday. This, after Senator Maria Imelda Josefa Remedios “Imee” Marcos called on the Department of Health (DOH) to abolish its prioritization list to avoid wastage of Covid-19 jabs. “We do not have any prioritization list anymore,” said DOH officer-in-charge Maria Rosario Vergeire in a media forum. Vergeire said the government implemented a prioritization list earlier in the Covid-19 inoculation drive due to the scarcity of jabs from March 1 up to the third quarter of 2021. “Pero ngayon po that we have enough supplies, supplies are sufficient until the end of this year, wala na po tayo ginagawang prioritization (But now that we have enough supplies, supplies are sufficient until the end of this year, we don’t practice prioritization anymore),” she said. All eligible population can

PNA file photo by Rico H. Borja

be vaccinated against Covid-19. Currently, local government units no longer implement vaccination schedules. “Kapag po kayo ay pumunta, kahit walk in, babakunahan kayo (When you go (to vaccination sites), even walk in, you will be vaccinated), as long as you are eligible. When we say eligible, you meet the criteria,” she added. Vergeire said the DOH continues to encourage the unvaccinated members of the target population to receive their primary series of Covid-19 jabs and the fully vaccinated to their first booster shot.

Caraga Infocus • July 30-August 5, 2022

As for the second booster, she said the eligible population consists of adults 50 years old and above, and individuals 18 to 49 years old with comorbidities only. As of August 5, over 71.8 million Filipinos have been fully vaccinated against Covid-19. Of the tally, more than 9.7 million are adolescents, 4.2 million are children, and 6.8 million are senior citizens. Around 16.4 million individuals have received their first booster dose while 1.4 million got their second booster shot. (PNA/Ma. Teresa Montemayor)

365K booster doses administered via PinasLakas drive

Covid-19 alert levels remain ‘status quo’: Palace The coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) alert levels in the country will remain in effect until the new classifications are announced, Malacañang said on Friday. Press Secretary Trixie Cruz-Angeles said the Department of Health (DOH) is still reviewing the Covid-19 alert level system.

(PNA photo by Rico H. Borja)

A total of 364,784 booster doses of Covid-19 vaccines have been administered through the PinasLakas campaign. In a Viber message to reporters Wednesday night, the Department of Health said the doses were given from July 26 to Aug. 2. “[About] 2,685 senior citizens were provided with full dose of the Covid-19 vaccine for the same period,” the DOH

said. The DOH aims to vaccinate 90 percent of the target elderly population and to boost 50 percent of the target population during the first 100 days of the Marcos administration.

transport terminals, offices, factories, plazas and schools. As of Aug. 1, the DOH said more than 71.7 million Filipinos have been fully vaccinated.

More than 16.2 million individuals have The PinasLakas received their first campaign makes booster dose and more vaccines more than 1.3 million got accessible and available their second booster in public markets, shot. (PNA/ Ma. Teresa places of worship, malls, Montemayor) Caraga Infocus • July 30-Augus 5, 2022

“So, we’ll have to wait. Anyway, right now, it’s status quo, so we’ll maintain alert levels for now. But the entire process is also continuously under review so we have to wait,” Cruz-Angeles told Palace reporters. Pressed if there will be an announcement about the Covid-19 alert levels before August, she said, “Yes.” Quizzed for clarification if new Covid-19 alert levels would be implemented for the month of August, CruzAngeles, in a text message, said, “That’s speculation. Right now, it is status quo. If it is going to change, it will be announced on time.” Pending the review of the alert level classifications, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has agreed to retain the most lenient Alert Level

(PNA file photo by Joey Razon)

1 classification in more than half of the Philippines, including Metro Manila.

The DOH is also reconstituting the members of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) to only those with “relevant and intended functions.”

A total of 85 of 121 provinces, highly urbanized cities, independent component cities, as well as 166 of 744 other component cities and municipalities, are The country recorded currently under Alert Level 1. 21,331 new Covid-19 infections from July 21 to DOH Officer in Charge, 27, according to the data Undersecretary Maria released by the DOH on Rosario Vergeire, earlier Thursday. said the department might come up with new Covid-19 The DOH also reported an classifications by the average of 3,047 cases per second week of August. day. Vergeire also said midDespite the continued August is a suitable period uptick in cases, the DOH to loosen up to allay fears said the Philippines remains of medical professionals at low risk for Covid-19 and give them time to make Covid-19 cases more infections. (PNA/ Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos) manageable.

Caraga Infocus • July 30-August 5, 2022

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