Caraga InFocus – July 4-10, 2020 by Caraga InFocus

CONTENTS Caraga Infocus

04 - 10 July 2020

8 9 11 12 14 16 17 18 20 21 21

Volume IV, No. 28

REGIONAL NEWS

Butuan City locals support agri-4Ps during this COVID-19 pandemic Caraganons support NGP implementation amid COVID-19 pandemic Select Butuan villages remain under MECQ; RTF approves deferment of returning individuals Caraga RTF-ELCAC eyes closure of non-DepEd schools amid pandemic RTF for COVID-19 OKs limited commercial flights in Caraga Caraga-RTF wants mandatory Covid-19 test for LSIs DOH Caraga reveals 15 new COVID19 cases DA to build 35 farm-to-market roads in Caraga DA Caraga ensures unhampered corn farming CHR Caraga orients LGUs, RLAs on â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Gender Ombudâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; PNP-Caraga announces online recruitment for applicants

Caraganons support NGP implementation amid COVID-19 pandemic

Caraga-RTF wants mandatory Covid-19 test for LSIs

Rubber production at marketing project itinurn-over sa Butuan City

31 Former rebels in AgSur town receive aid from government

Duterte to Filipinos: Let’s build ‘better, more prosperous’ PH

24 25 26 28 29 31 33 35 37 38 40 43 44 47 49 50 52 54 56 57 59 60

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Rubber production at marketing project itinurn-over sa Butuan City Roads at landslide-prone area near completion amidst pandemic Online course on practicing COVID-19 preventive measures in the workplace now open to public TESDA Agusan Norte holds forum on assessment center managers TESDA distributes toolkits to SSTP scholars in AgNor town Former rebels in AgSur town receive aid from government Government agencies, media hand-over relief assistance to remote village in AgSur town AgSur farmers disowns NAMASUR, creates a new association as their own P15-M emergency vehicles released to 14 Agusan Sur LGUs ECQ imposed in mining firm premises in Surigao Norte NGOs donate 39 portable hand-washing facilities to SurSur

MINDANAO NEWS Devt body vows food sufficiency in Mindanao BARMM gives P15-M aid for additional Covid-19 lab

NATIONAL NEWS New anti-terror law fixes flaws in Human Security Act: Andanar SSS amends guidelines on temporary ACOP suspension Duterte to Filipinos: Let’s build ‘better, more prosperous’ PH PRRD to Filipinos: Follow conditions for non-essential travel DA proposes P284-B budget for 2021

COVID-19 NEWS No second wave of Covid-19 cases in PH: DOH exec Public should not be alarmed by jump in Covid-19 cases WHO suspends hydroxychloroquine trial for second time AFP air, naval assets transport 2M pounds of Covid-19 supplies

Home Defense Village for in Bayugan City By Jennifer P. Gaitano

ith the increasing number of terrorist group members who chose to surrender to the governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fold during this coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the city government of Bayugan together with the Philippine National Police (PNP), Philippine Army (PA), National Housing Authority (NHA) and other concerned agencies have also launched the Home Defense Village. The nine-hectare of land where the Home Defense Village will be completed is located in Sitio Amongon, Barangay Noli of Bayugan City.

rights and welfare, hence, putting up this infrastructure that creates a conducive environment where they could start a new life.

The government aims to address Through this infrastructure the concerns and needs of the former provided to the beneficiaries, the rebels, as well as to promote their LGU and concerned agencies are

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r former rebels launched anticipating that this will give better opportunities for the former rebels for them to be able to live a normal life in the mainstream society. According to Police Brigadier General Joselito Esquivel, Jr., regional director of PNP-Caraga, the working relationship and partnership between the government and former rebels are further strengthened as the latter directly get the services and programs intended for them from the different line agencies. Apart from that, the former rebels will also receive financial assistance under the government’s EnhancedComprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

“Live well in this new community

where you and your family will start a new home. Encourage others who are still in the movement to surrender and live a peaceful life and a better tomorrow,” cited Esquivel. Meanwhile, Bayugan City Mayor Kirk Asis stressed that it is but rightful and proper to give the former rebels another chance to start anew with their respective family in an environment that is safe, peaceful and productive. “Among other projects that we will establish, this one is also very helpful for our FRs and locals who we wanted to have a home in a peaceful community. We will continue to provide what our constituents the programs and services they deserve,” Asis said. (JPG/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

July 4-10, 2020 |

News Briefs In line with this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s World Population Day celebration, the Commission on Population and Development (POPCOM) Caraga holds a virtual Press Conference with guest speakers from other government agencies. xx

LTFRB Caraga issues Regional Office Circular 2020-021, extending the operations in existing and new/developmental routes re-opened thru ROC 2020-020, lifting the number coding scheme for PUVs in Butuan City, and opening new MGCQ routes in Caraga Region under the authority of a Special Permit for the operation of public transportation in areas under MGCQ. The information officers from various local government units and government agencies in Caraga region are attending 9th Virtual Town Hall Meeting hosted by the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) headed by Sec. Martin Andanar. Stakeholders Conference cum Revisiting Priority PPAs of Retooled Community Support Program-Identified Barangays held in Butuan City is aimed to assess the extent of assistance provided to the local government units through the Assistance to Municipalities Program and through the convergence program under EO 70, series of 2018.

REGIONAL NEWS

Butuan City locals support agri-4Ps during this COVID-19 pandemic By Jennifer P. Gaitano

To sustain food security in various communities during this coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the local residents in a village in this city took the initiative along with the Department of Agriculture (DA) Caraga for the establishment of a communal garden. The concerted effort is under the Alauya said he felt the need to DAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Plant, Plant, Plant Program or Agri- help his neighbors particularly those 4Ps. whose livelihood were greatly affected, hence, he convinced them to get free Led by Hanawi Alauya, chief of seedlings from the DA and have it sown Fisheries Inspection and Quarantine in the vacant lot in the village. Services of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), residents in â&#x20AC;?I want to help my neighbors who the area have started planting in the are affected with this pandemic and 400-square meter land. with this little way, I believe this could

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support their family’s daily consumption establishments, including the transport during this time of pandemic,” said sector and we experience difficulty in Alauya. coping with our daily expenses while we are on community quarantine. This Lyn Montes, a tricycle driver is why, we are thankful to the initiative whose husband is a construction and collaboration of the concerned worker, was among those hit hard by individuals and groups for this communal the community quarantine and is now garden, where we could harvest and active in communal gardening. consume for our family,” Montes bared. She added, this does not only help them survive in their daily consumption but also allows them to earn some income.

Meanwhile, a 300-square meter was added to the current land planted with different vegetable seedlings, and locals are now planning to venture into corn through the Project “Maisan sa ”Since the onset of the COVID-19, Nataran” o Pro-Mais Movement, a new many were unemployed due to food production initiative of the DA. temporary suspension of several (JPG/NCL/PIA-Caraga)

Caraganons support NGP implementation amid COVID-19 pandemic By Jennifer P. Gaitano

While Caraganons maximize their time during the community quarantine by maintaining a communal garden in their respective barangays, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Caraga also urged locals to help protect the region’s rich bounty of natural resources by planting more trees in support to the National Greening Program (NGP). Based on the department’s in Caraga last year. The province of record, more than 5.7 million seedlings Agusan del Sur has the highest number were already planted in the NGP areas of seedlings planted among other July 4-10, 2020 |

provinces in the region. According to Forester Samuel Danganan, assistant regional director for Technical Services of DENR-Caraga, over the years, the region remains to have high-performance rating in the implementation of the national greening program. The official added that local communities continue to express their support for the said program, however, illegal logging still remains to be a problem in the region.

Meanwhile, the newly installed regional executive director of DENRCaraga called on all Caraganons to take part in the government’s campaign against illegal activities that are harmful to the environment and to actively participate in its initiatives for the conservation and protection of the region’s natural resources.

“Not any sector of society can do that alone, not the government or private sector alone. Everybody, every sector of society has to collaborate so that protect the nature and sustain it for With this, the DENR was able the future generations,” said Dir. Hadja to accomplish 98 percent from their operations against violators of forest Didaw Piang-brahim of DENR-Caraga. (JPG/PIA-Caraga) protection laws.

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Select Butuan villages remain under MECQ; RTF approves deferment of returning individuals By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales

With the continuous rise of cases in Caraga region, 33 barangays in the city remain under Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ). The Department of Health (DOH) Caraga has emphasized the need to continue implementing the said degree of community quarantine in order to â&#x20AC;&#x153;target 100 percent contact tracing and placement of all unnecessary quarantine and isolation measures to prevent further the spread of the disease in the regionâ&#x20AC;? in its letter addressed to the Inter Agency Task Force for the Management of

Emerging Infectious Disease (IATF-EID) dated June 29. The Caraga Regional Task Force for COVID-19 One Caraga Shield (RTFJuly 4-10, 2020 |

COCS) then concurred the request The rise in cases spurred the during its 9th Teleconference Meeting subsequent increased demand for a on July 3. real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) testing laboratory in the The said city currently has the region, which is targeted to open on second-highest number of cases in the second week of the month, as the region, wherein 36 of the 161 total indicated in the same letter from the cases are tallied. In addition, the health DOH Caraga. department has confirmed the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first locally transmitted cases in the city. As of July 6, Caraga region has 161 total confirmed cases. Twenty Meanwhile, the task force has six have now recovered and have also approved the request of local been discharged, 19 have recovered authorities on the deferment of the and are now completing quarantine locally stranded individuals (LSIs) and period, and 116 are still admitted and returning overseas Filipinos (ROFs) in the under strict facility quarantine. (DMNR/ region. PIACaraga)

Caraga RTF-ELCAC eyes closure of non-DepEd schools amid pandemic By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales

In line with the pursuit of ending insurgency in the region, the Department of Education (DepEd) Caraga has pursued the closure of unaccredited schools in Caraga region amid the pandemic, per the mandate of the Caraga Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC). Schools established under the Alternative Learning Center for Agricultural and Livelihood Development (ALCADEV), Inc. and the Tribal Filipinos Program of Surigao del Sur (TRIFPSS), Inc. in Lianga and Marihatag towns in Surigao del Sur

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have now been closed, which were allegedly being used as training grounds by communist-terrorist groups (CTGs) in the area. These are now being replaced with DepEd-accredited lumad schools.

In Brgy. Diatagon in Lianga town, over 80 percent of the makeshift classrooms are nearly complete. It is expected to cater in 29 tentative enrolees, wherein 10 students are expected to enrol under the Kinder level; eight under Grade 1; four under Grade 2; one under Grade 3; four under Grade 4; and one in Grades 5 and 6. The construction of the makeshift building was accomplished by personnel from the military unit in the area and was funded by the provincial government of Surigao del Sur and the municipal government. Meanwhile, in Brgy. Mahaba in the municipality of Marihatag, enrolment is still being conducted by teachers of the nearby San Roque Elementary School the displaced learners in the area for the and Mahaba barangay officials. pilot batch of establishing government Due to the gravity of the insurgency owned lumad schools. situation in the area, the construction “Both areas were chosen of the makeshift building had to be postponed. However, the 9th Coy since they were identified as ‘most Special Forces (SF), Philippine Army and problematic areas’ by the provincial barangay officials are coordinating with government of Surigao del Sur,” he the municipal government of Marihatag said. and the provincial government for Prior to the closure of the the fast procurement of the building unaccredited schools, the schools’ materials. directors were given final notice of Both makeshift schools will be closure on February 21 of this year. manned by three teachers, one from Since no proper response was provided the department and the other two from to the authorities, closure of the schools was pushed through. the local community. According to DepEd Caraga Regional Director Francis Cesar Bringas, the technical working group of the task force decided to establish schools for

The schools are expected to become fully functional prior to the resumption of classes on August 24. (DMNR/PIA-Caraga) July 4-10, 2020 |

RTF for COVID-19 OKs limited commercial flights in Caraga By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales

The Regional Task Force for COVID-19 One Caraga Shield (RTF-COCS) has approved the resumption of limited commercial flights to and from Caraga Region, starting with Bancasi Airport in Butuan City on 08 July 2020.

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During its 9th Teleconference Meeting held last July 3, the task force allowed the said resumption of flights by virtue of the Resolution No. 49, S. 2020, entitled “A Resolution Allowing the Resumption of Commercial Air Flights at the Bancasi Airport in Butuan City, Subject to Specific Conditions”, provided that the following precautionary measures are put in place. Resumption of commercial airline operations shall be allowed on July 8 for Cebu Pacific and July 13 for Philippine Airlines. Both airline companies shall each be allowed to operate one flight, four times in a week only on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Airline operators shall be limited to operate at 50% of their seating capacity, which may be increased to 75 percent, depending on the COVID-19 developments in the region. Passengers are required to present their COVID-19 test results, which shall not be older than five days prior to their travel date. The said tests may either be rapid antibody test (RAT) or reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) prior to boarding the aircraft and will be shouldered by the passengers. Likewise, passengers who will not be able to present a negative RAT or RT-PCR negative result shall not be allowed to board the airplane. The cost of testing may be added to the passenger’s travel fare, should the airline companies themselves consider facilitating the passenger’s testing prior

to boarding the aircraft. Airline companies are also required to secure the personal details of the passengers relating to the address of their final destinations and their contact numbers. Meanwhile, in the light of the increasing number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 from inbound local stranded individuals (LSIs) and returning overseas Filipinos (ROFs), the RTF-COCS also pushed for a more regulated entry of LSIs into the region by requiring all those arriving to be tested at their point of origin and be quarantined for 14 days at their point of destination. Passed by the RTF-COCS, Resolution No. 50, S. 2020, entitled “A Resolution Requiring All Arriving Locally Stranded Individuals (LSIs) Into the Region to be Tested at Their Point of Origin and be Quarantined for Fourteen (14) Days at their Point of Destination” intends to lower or prevent the risk of spreading COVID-19 while also facilitating the entry of returning residents into the region. During the same meeting, the request of the city government of Butuan to implement modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ) in 33 identified barangays from July 4-15 was also concurred, per the recommendation of the Regional Validation and Screening Committee (RSVC). (Amethyst Joy A. Galos, NEDA Caraga/DMNR/PIA-Caraga) July 4-10, 2020 |

Caraga-RTF wants mandatory Covid-19 test for LSIs By Alexander Lopez

The Regional Task Force on Covid19-One Caraga Shield (RTF-COCS) passed a resolution Friday requesting the national InterAgency Task Force (IATF) that locally stranded individuals (LSIs) be subjected first to mandatory coronavirus disease Covid-19) test before they are allowed to return home.

Agusan del Norte governor Dale B. Corvera, chairman of the Regional Task Force on Covid-19 One Caraga Shield. (PNA photo by Alexander Lopez)

The request--agreed by RTFCOCS members during a regular meeting presided over by Agusan del Norte Governor Dale Corvera-- came amid the scheduled return of 141 LSIs in Caraga from Manila and other parts of the country on July 10. The 141 LSIs were supposed to return on June 27 but it was temporarily halted through a request by the regional task force, citing the increasing Covid-19 cases in the region.

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Of the 141 LSIs, 14 are from Agusan del Norte, 61 in Agusan del Sur, 27 in Surigao del Norte, eight in the Province of Dinagat Islands, 14 in Surigao del Sur, and 17 are from Butuan City. The province of Agusan del Norte and Butuan City are currently classified under modified general community quarantine (MGCQ) with strict local action, while the rest of the provinces in Caraga are now under MGCQ.

33 Butuan villages under MECQ

Lapu, Leon Kilat, Libertad, Limaha, New Society Village, Obrero, Ong Yiu, Rajah In the same meeting Friday, RTF- Soliman, San Ignacio, San Vicente, COCS also approved the request of the Sikatuna, Silongan, Tandang Sora, Bituan City government to place the Urduja, and Villa Kanangga. 33 areas in the city under the modified enhanced community quarantine “The number of suspected cases (MECQ). in Butuan City continues to rise, and such cases are scattered among its Butuan Mayor Ronnie Vicente barangays, thereby placing much Lagnada issued Executive Order No. 38 strain on the contact-tracing efforts of Friday extending the city under MGCQ our health workers,” Lagnada said in and the 33 barangays under MECQ the order. from July 4 until July 15. Most of the public establishments The 33 barangays include Agao, such as markets and malls frequented Agusan Pequeño, Ambago, Baan KM. by residents are situated in the 33 3, Baan Riverside, Bading, Bayanihan, barangays. Buhangin, Dagohoy, Diego Silang, Doongan, Dumalagan, Fort Poyohon, As of July 3, Butuan City has 36 Golden Ribbon, Holy Redeemer, confirmed Covid-19 cases, with 15 Humabon, Imadejas, J. P. Rizal, Lapu- recoveries and zero death. (PNA)

DOH Caraga reveals 15 new COVID19 cases

The Department of Health (DOH) Caraga on Monday reveals 200 RTPCR results received from Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) sub-national laboratory. Of the said RT-PCR results received, 166 tested negative while 34 turned positive for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) virus.

and Agusan del Sur quarantine facility, c) 160 results coming from high-risk individuals who either have turned positive in the Rapid Antibody-based Test or with relevant travel and exposure The negative RT-PCR results are to COVID-19. from the a) Suspect case at Butuan Doctors Hospital, b) Five (5) Probable As reported, 34 samples are RTcases from Butuan Doctors Hospital PCR confirmed positive for COVID-19: July 4-10, 2020 |

a) Nineteen (19) follow-up tests of All cases are asymptomatic previously confirmed cases and b) and are admitted and isolated at designated quarantine facilities regionFifteen (15) New Cases. wide for monitoring and management. Of the 15 new cases, 53.33% (8) are Locally Stranded Individuals, 26.67% (4) are Returning Overseas Filipinos and 20% (3) are frontliners. As to sex distribution, 73.3% (11) are males whereas 26.67% (4) are females. For age group, 46.67% belong to ages 20-30 years old. Cases are distributed in the following areas: municipalities in Agusan del Norte- Buenavista (1), Las Nieves (1), Cabadbaran City (1), Bayugan City (1), municipalities in Surigao del Norte-Alegria (2), Gigaquit (3), Sison (1), Sta. Monica (1), Tagbina, Surigao del Sur (3), Bislig City (1).

“This month, we celebrate the National Disaster Resilience month with the theme, ‘Sama-samang Pagsulong Tungo sa Katatagan sa Gitna ng Bagong Normal’ highlights the role of every agency, LGU, community and individuals to be resilient in facing the COVID-19 crisis. Together we can fight this battle.” Regional Director Jose R. Llacuna, Jr. said. As of this time, Caraga region now has a total of 176 cumulative confirmed positive COVID-19 cases. (DOH Caraga/PIA Caraga)

DA to build 35 farm-tomarket roads in Caraga

By Alexander Lopez

The Department of Agriculture in the area (DA-13) said it has allocated PHP608 million for the construction of 35 farm-to-market roads (FMRs) in different provinces in the region to provide farmers more access to market centers. DA-13 Regional Executive Director Abel James I. Monteagudo, in a statement Thursday (July 9), underscored the importance of investing in infrastructure development to ensure food security and converting farming areas in the region into resilient communities.

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“Infrastructures like FMRs would improve logistics and linkages of production areas to the domestic and export markets,” Monteagudo said. He said more areas in the region stand to benefit for more farm infrastructure funding through

the agency’s Farm-to-Market Road different provinces in the region from Development Program (FMRDP). 2015 to 2019. Of the 35 FMRs allotted for Caraga this year, seven projects with a total budget of PHP163 million are already under construction while the remaining 28 are still already scheduled for release. “FMRs give better leverage to farmers’ access to better prices and make their products more saleable,” Monteagudo said, pointing out that FMRs reduce handling losses and give the farmers more profit and more returns from their produce. “It’s not only profit that the farmers could enjoy out of the FMR but the accessibility it gives brings in basic services like health services, access to school, and security,” Monteagudo added. DA-13 said a total of 121 FMRs with a total length of 185.6 kilometers with a total worth of PHP1.9 billion have already been implemented in the

The FMR projects were completed in partnership with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the respective local government units (LGUs) where the projects were implemented. Rene Morales, head of the Engineering Division of DA-13 stressed the importance of the linkage of the farmers and their products to the intended markets in the region. “It is not just our farmer’s products that we are going to link to the market, but also it will bring easy access to import agricultural inputs to our respective production areas,” Morales said. He added that agricultural inputs are products that are needed in crop and livestock production that include seeds, fertilizers, feedstuffs, and plant protection products. (PNA) July 4-10, 2020 |

DA Caraga ensures unhampered corn farming By Aurelius P. Arais

As the medical experts fight against the dreaded coronavirus, farmers are ensuring food availability for all. With the support from the Department of Agriculture-Caraga (DA-Caraga), corn farmers are set to establish corn model farms in three sites in the region at Brgy. Mandamo, Butuan City; Bunawan, Agusan del Sur and San Miguel, Surigao del Sur. DA-Caraga will provide free seeds, fertilizer, soil ameliorants, and bio-control agents as well as technical and marketing support for the three farm-cluster cooperators. DA Caraga Regional Executive Director Abel James I. Monteagudo together with Regional Corn Program Coordinator Melody Guimary recently led the turn-over of farm inputs to Mandamo Integrated Farmers Association (MIFA) of Butuan City and Bunawan Agusan del Sur Corn Farmers Association held at the DAILD Compound, Taguibo, Butuan City. Gracing also the occasion were officers of Butuan City Agriculture Office headed by Engr. Pierre Anthony Joven and officers of the cluster-cooperators.

farmer-cooperators as well as farmers in adjacent areas. This will showcase appropriate technology to increase yield, reduce production cost through farm mechanization, and produce quality yellow and white corn grains. Each farmer-cluster cooperator committed 50 hectares of land to be a corn model farm involving around 150 farmers. “To help our farmers continue their noble role as a food producer, DA will support them through the provision of seeds and other inputs to make them productive despite of the pandemic,” Monteagudo said. Nazario Baslote, chairperson of MAFI said that the project is a big help for them as they have availed free seeds and other inputs which is a big saving on their production cost. “We are grateful that DA is always there for us. Despite the pandemic, we can produce food continuously,” he said.

The project is in support of the Plant Plant Plant Program (Agri4ps) towards a food-secure and resilient Philippines Corn model farm will serve as with prosperous farmers and fisherfolks. show window of learning for the (DA Caraga/PIA Caraga)

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CHR Caraga orients LGUs, RLAs on ‘Gender Ombud’

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR)-Caraga conducted an online learning session on “CHR as Gender Ombud” to local government units (LGUs) and regional line agencies (RLAs) on June 30, 2020. With the end goal of increasing the attendees’ knowledge and appreciation of CHR as the Gender Ombud, CHR Caraga discussed the Magna Carta of Women; the roles and functions of the Gender Ombud; and the programs and services of the CHR to the attendees. One of the highlights also is the orientation of the e-Report sa Gender Ombud, which is an online system where people can report incidents of genderbased violence (GBV) and other cases that occur during the global health crisis caused by the pandemic. This was

launched by the Commission on April 27, 2020. Attendees were provincial and city social welfare and development officers and provincial gender and development focal persons of Agusan del Norte, Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, and Butuan City. Key staff from the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Philippine National Police, and Department of Health were also present. (CHR-Caraga/PIA-Caraga) July 4-10, 2020 |

PNP-Caraga announces online recruitment for applicants By Alexander Lopez

The Police Regional Office in Caraga Region (PRO-13) has announced the opening of online recruitment for those interested in joining the police service in the area. Major Renel Serrano, PRO-13 public information officer, said interested applicants may check the PNP Online Recruitment Application System (PNPORAS) to get information on the ongoing recruitment.

Caraga “with a strong commitment to serve and protect the country and the region” to join the police service. “The continuous recruitment program of the Philippine National Police aims to attain the 1:500 PNP to civilian ratio,” Esquivel said, adding the recruitment also aims to “better serve and provide quality police services to the people”.

In an interview Thursday, Serrano said the newly-activated Regional Recruitment and Selection Unit is responsible for the management of the recruitment and selection process for Police recruits, Esquivel said, will the applicants in the Caraga Region. augment the more than 205,000-strong He also reminded applicants to PNP family and will be appointed to have their personal email addresses the initial rank of Police Patrolman/ before accessing the PNP-ORAS as well Patrolwoman with a gross monthly salary as other documentary requirements as of PHP29,668 and other benefits.

these will be required to be downloaded “PRO-13 will have a quota of 350 to the system. for this recruitment and will take the oath “The system will only accept upon joining the police service before PDF, JPEG, or PNG format of scanned the end of the third quarter of this year,” documents. Applicants are also required Esquivel said.

to submit original copies or certified true A total of 200 new police recruits in copies of their documents,” Serrano said. the Caraga Region took their oath last In a statement Thursday, PRO- July 1, 2020, and are now undergoing 13 director Brig. Gen. Joselito Esquivel training at the PRO-13 Training Center. Jr. encouraged eligible individuals in (PNA)

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

Rubber production at marketing project itinurnover sa Butuan City By Nora C. Lanuza

Isang Integrated Rubber Production at Marketing Project na nagkakahalaga ng P22.1 miilion ang itiner-over ng Departemnt of Agriculture-Philippine Rural Development Project (DA-PRDP) sa Km. 7 Farmersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Producers Cooperative (KFPC) sa barangay Tungao dito sa lungsod. Malaki ang pasalamat ng nasabing kooperatiba dahil matagal na nila itong pangarap na maepondar. Ayon kay KFPC chairperson Samuel Calawigan, Jr. isa itong panaginip na

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naging totoo para sa kanila na mga myembro. Malaking tulong ang nasabing proyekto dahil ang kooperatiba ang

isa sa nagbibigay ng serbisyo sa mga Sa ngayon, mayroon ng 460 rubber growers sa Butuan City at sa myembro ang kooperatiba. karatig na mga bayan dito. Kampante naman si DA regional executive director Abel James Kabilang sa nasabing proyekto Monteagudo na maging maayos at ang pagpapatayo ng warehouse, pagpapatagbo ng kooperatiba dahil seedling production building at tulong-tulong ang mga myembro nito seedbed na susuporta sa mga at maganda ang reputasyon. myembro at mga rubber growers. Maliban sa P22.1 million rubber Ayon din ay KFPC general production at marketing project, manager Nilo Calipayan, target nilang kasalukuyan din ang konstruksyon ng mas maparami pa hanggang 500 9.82 kilometer na farm-to-market road hectares ang rubber plantation kada na nagkakahalaga ng P158.9 million taon, kaya at napakalaking tulong na na siguradong makakasuporta sa ito ng DA upang maisakatuparan ang operasyon ng nasabing kooperatiba. mga ito. (NCL/PIA Caraga)

Roads at landslide-prone area near completion amidst pandemic

Despite mobility restrictions imposed under community quarantine as a measure to stem the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the construction of damaged roads along AgusanBukidnon Road, particularly in Barangay Calayagon, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte, which is declared landslide-prone area, is progressing albeit slow-paced to attain its target completion date. The deadly threat brought by COVID-19 global pandemic has redirected the focus of construction activities towards building health facilities, and conversion of public buildings to quarantine facilities to address the overflow of patients in

hospitals and to safeguard the Filipino people against this deadly unseen foe. However, the construction of important projects is still a top-most priority according to Secretary Mark A. Villar because construction is an July 4-10, 2020 |

essential economic driver to keep the to pound the ground in this region. Philippine economy afloat amidst this crisis. The fast completion of this project is highly anticipated by the residents “Those on-going projects that can to ensure fast mobility of people, be done despite quarantine restrictions goods and services come rainy season must continue because, fortunately, without fear of being ran aground by we need construction to keep our rummaging debris and soil. economy going,” said Sec. Mark A. Villar. As of May 15, 2020 physical The Rehabilitation/ Reconstruction of Roads with Slips, Slope Collapse and Landslide-Tertiary Roads-Agusan-Bukidnon Road (K1260+587.6+K1260+673.5), which was damaged due to Tropical Storm Seniang in 2015, is one of those projects viable to pursue amidst COVID-19, and essential as torrential heavy rains start

accomplishment is already at 90.16%. The project was started in February 20, 2020 and its target completion is on August 24, 2020 under the CY-2020 DPWH Regular Infrastructure Program of Agusan del Norte District Engineering Office. (DPWH Caraga with news from Agusan del Norte DPAIS/PIA Agusan del Norte)

Online course on practicing COVID-19 preventive measures in the workplace now open to public By Robert E. Roperos

The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) online course on “Practicing COVID-19 Preventive Measures in the Workplace” is now open to public. As per Memorandum No. 245 was initially intended for TESDA personnel dated June 29, 2020 issued by TESDA Sec. as part of the agency’s precautionary Isidro S. Lapeña, the e-learning course measures in the workplace.

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However, the online course is now open to public to increase the public’s awareness of the nature of the virus, its transmission, and more importantly the healthy and safe protocols which is vital in the prevention of the virus, especially in the workplace. This can be accessed thru www.etesda.gov.ph. Once the website is already accessed, click the Login hyperlink to register. After clicking the “Login” hyperlink, you will be taken to the login page. On the “Is this your first side of the navigation pane, under the time here?” column, click on the “New administration panel, click on the “Enrol me in this course” link. A message box Account” hyperlink. will appear asking if you really want to Fill out the form, fields marked with enroll in the module. Click on the “Yes” asterisk (*) are mandatory. You cannot button to proceed. proceed with the registration unless you For queries, interested individual provide the information. After filling out the form, click on the “Create my new may contact Tel. No. (+632) 893-8297 or email at tesdaonlineprogram@tesda. account” button. gov.ph. They may also contact or visit After creating your account, a the TESDA Office in their respective message will be sent to your email provinces.

address. The email contains a link to After an almost two-hour activate your account, simply click on the link and your account will be orientation, a 40-minute summative test will be given wherein the passing activated. rate is 80% and successful examinees How to enroll in a course? Before will receive an electronic-generated you can enroll in a course, make sure Certificate of Completion digitallythat you had created an account in our signed by Sec. Lapeña. TESDA Online Program (TOP) website. Login to the TOP website using your registered username and password. Once logged in, you will be taken to the TOP front page. The list of available courses is displayed on this page. Click on the link of the course that you want to enroll in. Next, click on the link of the module you wish to take. On the left

This undertaking is in line with TESDA’s slogan: “TESDA Abot Lahat,” promoting inclusive growth of Filipino people from all walks of life through the services offered by the agency. (TESDA Agusan del Norte with information from www.e-tesda.gov.ph/PIA Agusan del Norte) July 4-10, 2020 |

TESDA Agusan Norte holds forum on assessment center managers By Robert E. Roperos

A forum for the assessment center managers of the province of Agusan del Norte was held Thursday through online/virtual. In her message, TESDA-Agusan del Norte Acting Provincial Director Liza B. Budtan said the provincial office received letters asking when the assessments will be continued, “thus the need for the conduct of this forum,” she said. Also, Dir. Budtan emphasized that although a number of programs have been affected due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, TESDA is finding ways so that its mandates will still be delivered to the public observing the new normal. “All of us face challenges brought about by the global pandemic but we need to embrace the new normal, she said.

The TESDA chief of the province explained that the TechnicalVocational Education and Training (TVET) may conduct trainings in Technical Vocational Institutions (TVIs) and TESDA Technology Institutions (TTIs) subject to the compliance with TESDA Guidelines and minimum public health standards under the following conditions: 1. Full online/e-learning trainings; 2. All training programs related to agriculture/fishery qualifications for food production and processing; 3. Distance learning for TVET programs; 4. E-learning component of Blended Learning for TVET programs; 5. Dual Training System, EnterpriseBased Trainings, and In-plant Training in establishments allowed to operate under GCQ; and 5. Virtual assessment and portfolio assessment through electronic means for certain TVET qualifications.

The official further presented the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) Resolution No. 47, series of 2020 dated June 19, 2020 with emphasis that TESDA is now allowed to resume trainings and Furthermore, Dir. Budtan said assessments. the face-to-face TVET training and

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competency assessment may be conducted at up to 50% training and assessment site capacity, provided there is strict compliance with minimum public health standards, TESDA Guidelines and consultations with local government units. Meanwhile, Senior TESD Specialist Irenea A. Dela Victoria who is the Provincial Technical Competency Assessment and Certification System (PTCACS) presented the 2019 Accomplishments of TESDA-Agusan del Norte in as far as Competency Assessment and Certification System (CACS) is concerned. She also presented the top five assessment centers who have contributed in the accomplishments of the provincial office wherein a remarkable 120% accomplishment was

recorded in 2019, as follows: 1. Provincial Training Center of Agusan del Norte; 2. Northern Mindanao School of Fisheries; 3. Candelaria Institute of Technology of Cabadbaran, Inc. (CIC); 4. Philippine Electronics and Communications Institute of Technology (PECIT); and 5. Caraga State University (CSU). Among the updates of CACS presented include: 1. Accreditation of Assessment Centers; 2. Accreditation of Competency Assessors; 3. Compliance Audit; 4. Administrative and Assessment Protocols and; 5. Online Application. The provincial forum was attended by 47 participants composed of assessment center managers and processing officers of the different assessment centers in Butuan City and Agusan del Norte. (TESDA Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)

TESDA distributes toolkits to SSTP scholars in AgNor town By Robert E. Roperos

The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) distributed on Wednesday toolkits to graduates of the Special Skills Training Program (SSTP) in Brgy. Casiklan, Las Nieves â&#x20AC;&#x201C; one of the priority barangays identified by the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) under Executive Order 70. July 4-10, 2020 |

According to Agusan del Norte Acting Provincial Director Liza B. Budtan, the training was conducted on January 7-15, 2020 in Produce Organic Vegetables (Leading to Organic Agriculture Production NC II). It was made possible in coordination with Mabakas Techno-Demo Farm, Municipal Agriculture Office of Las Nieves and the 23rd Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army. “They finished the training on January 15, 2020 but due to COVID-19 pandemic, the toolkits distribution was suspended,” Budtan added. In his welcome address, Casiklan Punong Barangay Erwin C. Pesquito expressed his gratitude to TESDA for the free training that his constituents have availed. “In behalf of the residents of Brgy. Casiklan, I would like to express my sincerest thanks and gratitude to TESDA for the free training that our residentfarmers have availed, especially because aside from the training, we also received toolkits that would help them make their works easy,” Pesquito said.

all the learnings and knowledge I gained in the training and with God’s help, we were able to sell vegetable products amounting to Php 15,000.00 weekly… With the average income we have per week, we were able to build our own house,” she said. Meanwhile, TESDA-Caraga Regional Director Ashary A. Banto enjoined the scholars to enroll in Organic Agriculture Production NC II so that the knowledge they have right now will be leveled-up, thus leading to the production of high-valued agricultural products. “TESDA will always be here for you. Just tell us if you are interested to be trained specially in agriculturerelated qualifications and we will be providing you with knowledge, skills, and the right attitude so that you will succeed in as far as agricultural farming is concerned,” Dir. Banto said.

Among the starter toolkits the scholars have received include: steel rake, sprayer, shovel, garden hoe, and sprinkler. Aside from the toolkits, they also received seeds from the Provincial Agriculture Office through its officer-in Further, Marife B. Sanoy, one of charge Mr. Alvin P. Aclan. the scholars said in her testimony that because of the training she obtained Among the officials in attendance from TESDA through the Mabakas are Agusan del Norte Board Member Techno-Demo Farm, she and her Virgilo Escasiñas and Las Nieves Mayor husband were able to build a house Avelina Rosales. Likewise, personnel of which is a dream-come-true of the the 23rd Infantry Battalion, Philippine couple. Army and PNP-Las Nieves were also present in the activity providing security “When I finished my training last to guests and visitors. (TESDA Agusan January 25, 2020, I immediately applied del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)

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Former rebels in AgSur town receive aid from government By Jennifer P. Gaitano

Despite the ongoing threat posed by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the government remains steadfast in curbing the local communist armed conflict and in providing necessary and appropriate interventions to the affected residents particularly in the remote areas in the municipality of La Paz in Agusan del Sur. In time with the conduct of the three-day Peace-Building Seminar with the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) in Barangay Kasapa II, the locals also initiated a peace rally and ceremonial signing

of the resolution in the declaration of persona non-grata to the communistterrorist CPP-NPA-NDF (Communist Party of the Philippines - New Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Army - National Democratic Front). July 4-10, 2020 |

Apart from these, some 59 former rebels also received cash assistance from the government worth 15,000 pesos each. Four peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s organizations were also given tissue culture lacatan plantlets with organic fertilizers, vegetables, and corn seeds from the provincial and municipal agriculture offices.

are achieved only if people in the community are united and willing to do whatever it takes to keep everyone safe and secure. We thank our IPs for joining the government in its effort to curb the insurgency problem in the region,â&#x20AC;? bared Cane. The official added that a barangay health station is soon to be constructed in the area so locals would have easier access to medical services considering that said barangay is situated far from the municipal proper.

According to Agusan del Sur Governor Santiago Cane, Jr., the IPs have been very supportive and cooperative in the local peace talks and dialogue and actively join other sectors towards achieving peace and Mayor Michael Lim also stressed development in the region. that the local government supports the presence of the military in the area to Many of the former rebels have also ensure the safety and protection of the returned to the folds of the government residents, as well as the necessary infra and chose to live peacefully and start projects intended for them. anew in mainstream society. They are now inclined in spending quality time Meanwhile, the local government and living with their family especially also targets to put up a secondary during this COVID-19 crisis. school and a multi-purpose building where community activities will be held. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Peace and development (JPG/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

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Government agencies, media hand-over relief assistance to remote village in AgSur town By Jennifer P. Gaitano

Despite the distance from the municipal proper of San Francisco in the province of Agusan del Sur, the local residents particularly the youth in Purok 8, Barangay New Visayas were delighted to have received different sorts of relief assistance that have reached their place. July 4-10, 2020 |

This initiative was made possible by the individuals from the provincial government of Agusan del Sur with the local government unit of San Francisco, media entities and other concerned government agencies that travelled in kilometers just to hand in the food packs, snacks, seedlings, toys, shoes and slippers for the residents. The beneficiaries were thankful for the aid extended to them from the government and partners, especially during this time where the community quarantine is still strictly implemented. “We are happy to have visited by the personnel from the different government offices and media, who brought us good news and relief assistance that we need. We really appreciate the effort of our government and the private sector who care for us and our welfare,” said alias “Pedro”, a former rebel. Alias Pedro also requested that the local government give due attention in providing them concrete roads, so transportation going to and members or relatives of the former from the area would be more easier rebels, who are now active supporters of the government and are constantly and convenient. helping in the ways to address the “We are humbly requesting our problem on insurgency, among others. provincial government officials to help Meanwhile, Governor Santiago us also in developing the roads here in our place, so that we would experience Cane, Jr., encouraged all the residents easier and convenient transportation,” to be more vigilant and to prevent themselves from being victims of the added Pedro. deception and lies of the Communist According to Richard Grande, Party of the Philippine - New People’s president of Agusan del Sur Media Army (CPP-NPA). (JPG/PIA-Agusan del Club, most of the residents are family Sur)

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AgSur farmers disowns NAMASUR, creates a new association as their own

Former members of Nagkahiusang Mag-uuma sa Agusan del Sur (NAMASUR) have undergone reorientation and registration of their newly organized association conducted recently in Barangay Guadalupe, Esperanza, this province. July 4-10, 2020 |

With the support of Esperanza Local Government Unit and with the guidance of it’s Municipal Mayor Leonida P. Manpatilan, the Guadalupe United Farmers Association (GUFA) as their new organization was registered through the assistance of the Municipal Information Office and Public Employment Service Office (PESO) spearheaded by Gina Amonhay, together with the combined troops from 26th Infantry Battalion and 41st CivilMilitary Operation (CMO) Company, 4th CMO Battalion, under 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army.

mi mga kalabutan nga daotan diay ang tumong ug panuyo sa amuha sa maong organisasyon,” Arthur P. Cabana said, former NAMASUR member.

Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Reynald Romel A. Goce, commanding officer of 26IB, expressed his gratitude and compliment to all the farmers who unravel their membership to NAMASUR. “This is the time for us to unite in order to defeat these deceptive tactics of the CNT in using our farmers to be part of their violence and ambition in grabbing political power from our government. Based on intelligence reports Hopefully, this will be the start of our and revelations from former rebels, winning cause in defeating this kind of NAMASUR is one of the organizations left-leaning organization,” he said. being utilized by the CNTs (Communist NPA Terrorists) on fundraising and As prescribed by RA 11479 even source of manpower during the (Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020), under conduct of protests and rallies against Sec. 12 of the said act, “Any person the government in urban areas, worst is who provides any material support it also become a source of recruitment to any terrorist individual or terrorist for NPA regulars and cadres. organization, association or group of people knowing that such groups are As part of its deceptive tactics, the involved in terroristic activities, shall be organizer of NAMASUR as it was legally liable as principal to any and all other qualified as People’s Organization, terroristic activities committed by said will proposed livelihood projects to individuals or organizations in addition concerned public or private agencies to any criminal liabilities he/she or they in order to gain funds which will, later on, may have incurred in relation thereto”. be used as support to CNT movement. “Isip presidente sa GUFA nga amung bag-ong asosasyon, ako nagpasalamat sa tabang sa atuang gobyerno ilabi na sa mga kasundaluhan sa ilang gibuhat sa panuyo nga kami mahigmata ug maundang ang paggamit sa amua sa NAMASUR. Wala

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The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines pursuant to the provisions of RA 9372 or the Human Security Act of 2007. (26IB/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

P15-M emergency vehicles released to 14 Agusan Sur LGUs By Alexander Lopez

SUPPORT VEHICLE. Agusan del Sur Governor Santiago Cane Jr. (left) hands over to Bayugan City Mayor Kirk Asis one-unit patient transport vehicle for the city. A total of 14 emergency vehicles worth over PHP15 million are given to 14 local government units (LGUs) in the province on Wednesday (July 8, 2020). (Photo courtesy of Agusan del Sur Provincial Information Office)

The Agusan del Sur provincial government handed over patient transport vehicles to 13 municipalities and one city in the area amounting over PHP15 million. Agusan del Sur Governor Santiago to the local government units (LGUs) Cane Jr. turned over the said vehicles in a ceremony held at the Provincial July 4-10, 2020 |

Capitol grounds in Prosperidad town returning overseas Filipinos (ROFs) to on Wednesday. our province,” Plaza said. “The funding for the transport vehicles is from the provincial government through the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office or PDRRMO,” provincial information officer Alfredo Plaza said.

He said each vehicle costs over PHP1 million which includes emergency equipment and accessories.

“Governor Cane sees the need to provide some of our LGUs with these types of vehicles to transport their patients or during this time to support the transportation needs of locally stranded individuals (LSIs) or the

Plaza said the governor aims to strengthen the capabilities of the LGUs to respond to emergencies, especially that the province is facing the threat of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19). (PNA)

Cane handed over the vehicles starting Wednesday to the LGUs of Sibagat, Esperanza, San Luis, Talacogon, Plaza said each vehicle is already La Paz, Prosperidad, San Francisco, equipped with accessories and Rosario, Bunawan, Trento, Sta. Josefa, emergency equipment. Veruela, Loreto and Bayugan City.

ECQ imposed in mining firm premises in Surigao Norte By Alexander Lopez

The local government unit (LGU) of Claver in the province of Surigao del Norte has imposed a 14-day Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) on the premises of a mining company following the confirmation of positive cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) among personnel of the firm. In an Executive Order (EO) issued the site of Nikkeru Plant Maintenance on Monday (July 6), Claver town Mayor Solution, Inc. (NPMSI) of the Taganito Georgia Gokiangkee said the ECQ at HPAL Nickel Corporation takes effect

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RAPID TEST. Some 114 employees of Taganito HPAL Nickel Corporation in Claver, Surigao del Norte underwent Rapid Antibody Test on Wednesday (July 8, 2020) where all tested negative. The border of the mining company is placed under Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) on July 8 until July 21 after eight of its workers, particularly at the Nikkeru Plant Maintenance Solution, Inc. (NPMSI) were tested positive for Covid-19. (Photo grabbed from the municipality of Claver Facebook page)

starting Wednesday (July 8) until July the LGU and the company, stating 21, 2020. that the borders of THPAL will be closed during the 14-day period allowing Last June 22, the Department of only skeletal workforce in order not to Health in the Caraga Region (DOH- hamper the operations of the company. 13) confirmed eight Covid-19 positive cases among the workers at the NPMSI. During the period, disinfection will be conducted in all areas inside the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Intensified contract tracing compound of the mining firm, including was done by a THPAL physician in its barracks in Barangay Hayanggabon. coordination with LGU-Claver on June 24 and initial Rapid Antibody Testing Contact tracing will also continue was likewise performed to persons with during the period to be conducted by close contacts with the eight confirmed the company and the LGU of Claver. cases,â&#x20AC;? Gokiangkee said in the Order. The skeletal workforce, while Gokiangkee added that the under the 14-day ECQ, shall observe decision to put the THPAL under ECQ is the minimum protocol standards such contained in an agreement between as the wearing of facemask and the July 4-10, 2020 |

observance of physical distancing.

covered by the ECQ shall be regulated. The order said mass gathering The Order also said that THPAL shall inside the premises of the mining firm is formulate its in-house policy on travels strictly prohibited. within its premises in close coordination with LGU-Claver. “No minor, senior citizens, pregnant women, sick and immunocompromised On Wednesday, a total of 114 within the area can go out of from employees of THPAL have undergone their temporary quarantine facility or mandatory rapid tests where all turned dwelling except to go to the hospital, negative. medical or allied medical institutions,” Gokiangkee said. As of July 7, the province of Surigao del Norte has 58 confirmed She added that transit to and Covid-19 cases, including the eight from THPAL or anywhere within the area cases in Surigao City. (PNA)

NGOs donate 39 portable hand-washing facilities to SurSur By Nida Grace P. Barcena

A total of 39 units of handwashing facilities were received by the provincial government of Surigao del Sur headed by Governor Alexander Pimentel from the two non-government organization (NGO) donors on Thursday. The Moving Urban Poor Communities in Mindanao Towards Resilience o MOVE UP Mindanao Project funded by the European Union Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid donated 24 handwashing facilities while 15 units of touch-free, pedal-operated hand washing stations with hygiene kits were also given by ProACT’s Relief

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Operations COVID-19 Emergency Response by Action Against Hunger/ CODESPA. The ceremonial turnover was conducted at the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) in Tandag City.

PDRRMO chief Abel de Guzman revealed that the 24 handwashing facilities from MOVE UP Project will be distributed to the identified beneficiaries with no handwashing facility. De Guzman said six units will be distributed to the Rural Health Units (RHUs) of Madrid, Cagwait, Bayabas and Lingig, PDRRMO and Provincial Engineering Office (PEO) compound, and Adela Serra Ty Memorial Medical Canter (ASTMMC); five units will be given to Tandag City; two for the local government unit (LGU) of Tago; two for LGU San Miguel; two for LGU Marihatag; two for LGU San Agustin; three for LGU Lianga; one for LGU Lingig, and one for the Department of Education (DepEd)Surigao del Sur Division. While the 15 touch-free, pedaloperated handwashing stations from Action Against Hunger/CODESPA will be distributed to the provincial borders

in the municipalities of Carrascal, Barobo, Lingig, and Bislig City; LGUs of Carmen, Lanuza, Cortes, and Tagbina; Awasian Evacuation Center in Tandag City; Marihatag District Hospital; Cortes Community Hospital; Provincial Health Office (PHO); Provincial Capitol; and Tanggapan ng Sangguniang Panlalawigan (TSP). The distribution of the handwashing facilities to the identified areas, according to PDRRMO chief De Guzman, was aimed to promote frequent handwashing among Surigaonons amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Governor Pimentel, on the other hand, reminded everyone to observe the minimum health standards set by the Department of Health (DOH) at all times. (PIA-Surigao del Sur) July 4-10, 2020 |

MINDANAO NEWS

Devt body vows food sufficiency in Mindanao By Ruth Palo

The Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) has crafted a supplyand-demand system that would ensure food sufficiency in Mindanao. The Mindanao Food or “MinFood” program aims to create a selfsustaining supply-anddemand chain given the realities brought by the coronavirus pandemic. MinDA Chairman Emmanuel Piñol said MinFood would also include the establishment of a food positioning system for the Mindanao provinces.

supplies in areas where Piñol added that he had these are in short supply, already directed the he said. crafting of the Mindanao food supply and demand Piñol cited Bukidnon’s map indicating the vegetables as an example products each province where its produce could produces in excess and be brought to Zamboanga where these were needed. del Norte or Surigao del Norte. Some private and business sectors that At the same time, support the program would sea products from these provide logistical support fishing provinces could be in repositioning the food repositioned in Bukidnon July 4-10, 2020 |

and Cotabato.

belong to the Mindanao Organic Rice Council, an Davao City- organization initiated by based Eng Seng Food the MinDA, at P25 per kilo,” Products and Don Bosco Piñol said in a statement. Multipurpose Cooperative, Don Bosco will a pioneer in organic farming, have agreed to process and pack the collaborate in marketing products while Eng Seng black, red and brown organic rice produced by farmers in Mindanao. “Eng Seng President John Tan said his company would buy organic rice produced by farmers who

The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) turned over here on Monday over PHP15 million cash assistance to officials of the Amai Pakpak Medical Center (APMC) in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur.

will market it with the support of the MinDA. “This will ensure that organic rice farmers have a ready market for their produce as well as encourage others to shift to organic rice farming,” Pinol said.

BARMM gives P15-M aid for additional Covid-19 lab

By Albashir Saiden

ADDED LABORATORY AID. Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) officials, led by Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim (2nd from right) and Dr. Shalimar Sani-Rakiin, chief of the Amai Pakpak Medical Center in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur, lead the symbolic turnover of the PHP15-million assistance for the development of the hospital’s biomolecular laboratory in Cotabato City on Monday (July 6, 2020). Officials also signed a memorandum of agreement signifying their partnership in fighting Covid-19 in the province. (Photo courtesy of BPI-BARMM)

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The cash assistance will be used to boost the operations of the APMC’s biomolecular laboratory as an added coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) testing center.

will help in providing great leaps for Covid-19 responses in Lanao del Sur.

“Not only did the APMC assured the accreditation of their Covid-19 testing laboratory but they are also finishing up a Aside from its biomolecular biomolecular laboratory that is as equally laboratory, the APMC also has a testing important to help out in conducting more laboratory accredited by the Department tests daily,” Ebrahim said. of Health (DOH) as a Covid-19 testing facility on June 29. Meanwhile, Sani-Rakiin described the BARMM financial aid as a great Also on Monday, BARMM Chief help to APMC in the development of its Minister Ahod Ebrahim and Dr. Shalimar biomolecular laboratory to contain the Sani-Rakiin, APMC chief, signed a spread of the virus in the Lanao del Sur memorandum of agreement (MOA) for area. collaboration and cooperation in battling Covid-19. “Presently we have 99 new cases, brought by the ‘Hatid-Tulong’ program “This signing of MOA is another of the government. Initially, we only had manifestation of our shared commitment nine cases before its implementation,” with APMC in fighting Covid-19. We are Sani-Rakiin said. confident that our dear friends and counterparts from APMC can help us in She said the infra-component for this continuing battle,” Ebrahim said. the biomolecular laboratory is currently 39 percent complete and is expected Ebrahim added that he remains to be operational by August 20 this year. optimistic that their contribution to APMC (PNA)

July 4-10, 2020 |

NATIONAL NEWS

SEC. MARTIN ANDANAR PCOO

NEWS CORNER

New anti-terror law fixes flaws in Human Security Act: Andanar

Duterte’s move to further affirm the administration’s proactive campaign against terrorism by signing into law the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020. With the law, a more discerning mechanism is in place to prevent and deter the threats and dangers posed by terrorists to the Filipino people,” Andanar said. RA 11479 effectively repeals the HSA to further boost the government’s policies against terror acts. Andanar said the new anti-terror law would help advance the country’s national security interests. “As the Philippines is heavily afflicted by terrorism, as reflected in its ranking in the Global Terrorism Index of 2019, the Duterte administration stands with a firm position of undertaking stricter measures against terrorists, including foreign ones, while maintaining the respect for human rights as we have ensured safeguards against abuse,” he said.

The new anti-terrorism law aims to correct the flaws in Republic Act (RA) 9372 or the Human Security Act (HSA) of 2007, Presidential Communications Operations Under RA 11479, people who are Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin part of the planning and training for Andanar said on Friday. In a press statement, Andanar said the new law, RA 11479 or the AntiTerrorism Act of 2020, would enable the government to implement tougher measures against terrorism.

the commission of terrorism will face life imprisonment sans the benefit of parole and the benefits provided under RA 10592 or the Good Conduct Time Allowance Law.

The anti-terror law, which was He also acknowledged that the inked by Duterte on Friday, also warns HSA “served as a dead letter law and that any person who threatens to commit terror acts will suffer the penalty was severely underutilized.” of 12-year imprisonment.

“We support President Rodrigo

It also states that people who July 4-10, 2020 |

propose to commit or join terror acts degrading” treatment or punishment will be jailed for 12 years. against detained suspected terrorists is “absolutely prohibited.” Advocacy, protest, dissent, stoppage of work, industrial or mass Andanar vowed that the PCOO action, and other similar exercises of would cooperate with and support all civil and political rights not intended to relevant agencies in addressing the cause death or serious physical harm issue of terrorism while adhering to to a person or to create a serious risk to human rights and rule of law. public safety are not considered terror acts, according to RA 11479. “Let us all work together to defeat terrorism and fulfill the President’s vision The Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 of a safe and secure, terrorism-free also ensures that the use of torture Philippines,” he said. (Ruth Abbey Gitaand other “cruel, inhumane, and Carlos/PNA)

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SSS amends guidelines on temporary ACOP suspension The Social Security System (SSS) amended the guidelines on the temporary suspension of the Annual Confirmation of Pensioners Program (ACOP) following the continuous implementation of the community quarantine (CQ) in the Philippines due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. SSS President and CEO Aurora C. Ignacio said that under the amended guidelines, pensioners who have not complied with the ACOP for the calendar year 2020 (covering birth months from January up to the end of the CQ) would continue to receive their monthly pensions until the following month of the last day of the CQ in the country.

ACOP suspension. The health and safety of our members and pensioners remain our top concern,” Ignacio said. Meanwhile, pensioners whose pensions were already “suspended due to noncompliance with the ACOP” before the community quarantine will be given an online option to comply. The said pensioners may file their ACOP compliance by submitting a duly accomplished ACOP form, which is downloadable at https:// www.sss.gov.ph/sss/ appmanager/sss_ downloads.jsp? type=forms, together with photocopies of their identification cards or documents.

Once the entire country is under the new normal, meaning all forms of CQ have been lifted, the said pensioners will be given 60 days to comply with the ACOP requirement. Should they fail to comply within the said period, only then will their monthly pensions be If they are residing abroad, they suspended. may send the documents through email at ofw.relations@sss.gov.ph or However, verification processes/ the corporate email of the SSS foreign activities are continuously implemented office in the area. For those residing in by the SSS for those pensioners residing the Philippines, they may send them in the Philippines. at member_relations@sss.gov.ph or the corporate email of the SSS branch “Despite the gradual easing of concerned. community quarantine restrictions, we have decided to err on the side Pensioners residing in the of caution and extend the temporary Philippines may also submit their ACOP July 4-10, 2020 |

compliance through a representative or annually report to the SSS to ensure the personally, if possible, at SSS drop boxes continuous payment of their benefits located in its branches nationwide. under the Social Security Law. The SSS reminds the transacting public to follow the government’s minimum public health standards to reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19.

Under normal circumstances, ACOP compliance must be done by retiree pensioners residing abroad and total disability pensioners on their birth month. Survivor pensioners and dependents are required to do so The ACOP is a program launched on the birth month of the deceased in 2012 that requires pensioners to member. (SSS)

Duterte to Filipinos: Let’s build ‘better, more prosperous’ PH

By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos

As the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic continues to grapple the country, President Rodrigo Duterte has enjoined Filipinos to help his administration build a “better and more prosperous” Philippines.

Duterte made the call on shown during the first of three pre-SONA Wednesday ahead of his fifth State of fora. Despite the challenges Filipinos the Nation Address (SONA) on July 27. are currently facing due to the Covid-19 outbreak, Duterte remained optimistic “As we look to the future with much that the country would win the battle hope and positivity, let us continue to against the novel coronavirus. work together to build a better and more prosperous Philippines, and for Duterte said the unity and teamwork ourselves and the next generation of among Filipinos would make the country’s Filipinos,” he said in a video message fight against Covid-19 successful.

| July 4-10, 2020

“Numerous trials have tested our resolve these past few years but we always emerge victorious because of our unity and bayanihan (teamwork) as a people,” he said. As of Tuesday, the Philippines has logged 47,873 confirmed Covid-19 cases, with 12,386 recoveries and 1,309 fatalities.

government already crafted plans to ensure the country’s quick recovery, Nograles said. “The President and your government have long laid the groundwork for the economic recovery of the country. And the government [is] doing what is needed to respond to the Covid-19 pandemic, particularly in the continued implementation of its various programs and projects,” he said.

Duterte guaranteed that his government would continue to exhaust all efforts to achieve “real and lasting” Finance Secretary Carlos change in the country. Dominguez III and Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Benjamin Diokno Overcome challenges delivered the report of the Economic Development Cluster (EDC) during Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles the first pre-SONA forum. Public Works said the pre-SONA forum intends to Secretary Mark Villar, on the other give Filipinos the “clear picture” of how hand, presented the report of the the government plans to make their Infrastructure Cluster (IC). lives better. Nograles noted that the EDC sees Nograles ensured that the current the need to provide a “conducive” administration would be transparent environment and promote “rapid, by providing data, figures, and even inclusive, and sustained” economic “intricate” details about its Covid-19 growth in the country, while the IC response efforts. highlights the need to ensure that economic activities are “sustained, “If the numbers tell us we have cohesive, and inclusive”. challenges to overcome, we are here to provide you figures to assure you that “Patuloy pa rin ang pagbibigay ng these challenges will be overcome,” lubos na atensyon, pondo at panahon he said in his closing remarks during the sa mga programang kailangan upang pre-SONA forum. maitaas ang kalidad ng buhay ng lahat ng ating mga kababayan (We Recovery plan will continue to provide attention, funds, and time for programs that are To mitigate the impact of Covid-19 necessary to improve the lives of all our crisis on the Philippine economy, the fellow Filipinos),” he said. (PNA) July 4-10, 2020 |

PRRD to Filipinos: Follow conditions for non-essential travel By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos

MANILA – President Rodrigo R. Duterte has advised Filipinos to strictly follow the conditions imposed for non-essential travels abroad amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic. Duterte made the remarks in a taped public address aired on staterun PTV-4 early Wednesday after the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) lifted on Monday the suspension of non-essential outbound travel by Filipinos.

| July 4-10, 2020

“Suspension of non-essential travel by Filipinos is now lifted. All exit travel restrictions are also lifted. Conditions for outbound travel of Filipinos, ‘yung Pilipinong gustong lumabas sa bayan niya, ito lang ang tandaan ninyo (should be remembered by Filipinos who want to go out of the country),” he said.

Under IATF Resolution 52 approved on Monday, Filipinos traveling on tourist visas need to submit confirmed roundtrip tickets before they can be allowed to embark on non-essential outbound travel. Filipino travelers should also submit travel and health insurance to cover rebooking and accommodation expenses if stranded, and hospitalization in case of infection.

Covid-19 stays ‘for all time’ Despite the lifting of restrictions on non-essential outbound tourism, Duterte reminded Filipinos not to be complacent because Covid-19 “will remain for all time.” “Again, just because you are allowing some of the sectors of our society to go out and work, it does not follow that Covid is not here. Covid will remain for all time,” he said.

They should also show proof of allowed entry by the destination Duterte reiterated that the country, in accordance with their travel, Covid-19 pandemic would only end health, and quarantine restrictions. once a vaccine or drug is developed against the new coronavirus. A declaration acknowledging the risks involved in traveling, including the He also noted the need for Filipinos risk of delay in their return trip, should to continue following the quarantine also be executed. and health measures implemented by Upon the travelers’ return, the government.

guidelines set by the National Task Force “All I am asking is that you obey against Covid-19 for returning overseas Filipinos, such as testing and mandatory government because government is very much interested that you don’t quarantine, should be observed. get sick. Or if you get sick, that you get Duterte said the conditions must well and would live to see your children be followed to ensure the safety of grow, and your grandchildren to love,” Duterte said. Filipino travelers. He also ensured that his “This is not only a mandate dito sa Pilipinas (here in the Philippines),” administration is doing its best to defeat he said. “This is so because Covid is still Covid-19. rampaging.” “If you want us to do more, we The non-essential outbound travel will. Tell us what to do. If we cannot do restrictions on Filipinos were imposed in it, we will tell you why we cannot do it. March to stop the further transmission But if we can, gagawin namin (we will of Covid-19 in the country. do it),” Duterte said. (PNA) July 4-10, 2020 |

DA proposes P284-B budget for 2021 By Filane Mikee Cervantes

The Department of Agriculture (DA) is proposing a PHP284.4-billion budget for 2021, a nearly 256-percent increase from its current appropriations, to “sustain, reboot and grow” the country’s agriculture sector. During the virtual hearing of the House committee on agriculture and food, Agriculture Secretary William Dar stressed the need to allocate more resources to agriculture to unlock its full potentials in the Philippine economic recovery and national development efforts. He said the agricultural sector contributes around 10 percent of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) but the share it gets from the national budget for the past 10 years is a measly 3 to 5 percent of the total.

PHP79.9 billion budget. Of next year’s budget, PHP61.7 billion will be under Tier 1 while the Tier 2 will cover the remaining PHP222.6 billion. The agency’s proposed budget for next year will include PHP55.9 billion for the rice sub-sector; PHP6.6 billion for the corn sub-sector; PHP13.7 billion for the high-value crop; PHP11.2 billion for livestock sector; PHP22.5 billion for fisheries sector; PHP960 million for organic agriculture and PHP3 billion for other support programs.

“The budget is intended to sustain, reboot, and grow the agriculture and Dar assured the public that the fisheries sector amid the challenges supply of agricultural commodities brought by the pandemic,” Dar said. in the country is adequate amid the coronavirus pandemic. “We seek your highest approval of our budget proposal for the coming “We, in the Department of year. What lies in your hands right now Agriculture, are working 24/7 to ensure is the food security and resiliency of the that food is available, affordable, and country, the future of the 109 million sufficient on the table of every Filipino Filipinos, and counting,” he added. household under the situation we are in. We see these difficult situations as DA’s 2021 budget proposal of golden opportunities to strengthen the PHP284.4 billion is PHP204.5 billion underpinnings of Philippine agriculture,” higher than the current year budget of he said. (PNA)

| July 4-10, 2020

No second wave of Covid-19 cases in PH: DOH exec

By Ma. Teresa Montemayor

The country is not experiencing a second wave of coronavirus disease (Covid-19) infections, a health official said Tuesday. “We are not experiencing a second wave but an increase in the number of positive cases due to the increase in testing and because there is community transmission because of the lack of implementation of minimum health standards,” Department of Health (DOH) Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said in a virtual Covid-19 presser.

“has been gradual and the country’s health system is able to cope with it”. “This is reflected in our indicators, as of July 5, our case doubling time is still at 7.9 days. This means that it takes more than a week for the number of cases to double and we have enough resources to address the current need,” she added.

Vergeire said the increase in cases | July 4-10, 2020

According to the DOH, the first few

months of the enhanced community Capital Region,” Vergeire said. quarantine allowed the country to ramp up its health system capacity. The DOH, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), “There is no particular profile of and concerned local government units cases seen in our data. The recent increase is due to clustering in barangays have intensified their contact tracing in the National Capital Region and in and isolation protocols to contain the Cebu and in workplaces in the National identified clusters. (PNA)

PH winning fight vs. Covid-19: Palace By Azer Parrocha

Malacañang urged the public not to be frightened by the report that the country has recorded the highest single-day spike in coronavirus disease (Covid-19) cases in the country at 2,434 which raises the total number of cases to 44,254 as of Sunday. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said while the Palace is “saddened” by the jump in single-day cases, he emphasized the need to relax quarantine protocols to jumpstart the economy. “Marami po ang kinabahan sa ulat na ito na maging kami ay nalungkot nang una naming narinig ito. Ngunit hindi po tayo dapat panghinaan ng loob, tuloy po ang laban (There were many felt nervous about this report and even us are saddened by it. But we should not be discouraged, the fight continues),” he said in a virtual presser on Monday.

severe, 0.1 percent were critical, and 5.1 percent were asymptomatic. Roque said the country’s positivity rate is currently at 7.3 percent which is still within the benchmark of the World Health Organization (WHO). He explained that there was “no other alternative” for the government but to open the economy to protect workers and businesses from losing their source of livelihood.

“Kung hindi pa natin mabubuksan, eh baka mamaya, buhay nga tayo, mamamatay naman tayo dahil wala tayong hanapbuhay. (If we won’t Despite the increase in Covid-19 open the economy, we might die not cases, he said 94.3 percent of them because of the virus but because we were mild cases, only 0.5 percent were have no livelihood),” he said. July 4-10, 2020 |

He also warned of the possibility of Metro Manila reverting to the most restrictive enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) if the situation worsens. Metro Manila is currently under general community quarantine (GCQ) until July 15. He reminded the public to follow health and safety standards such as physical distancing, wearing of face masks, and frequent handwashing. Hospitals not full capacity Amid “fake news” that hospitals in Metro Manila are now on full capacity, Roque denied this by clarifying that the critical care utilization was still at 63 percent as of July 5. “Ang critical care utilization po ng Metro Manila -- at ito po ay kasama na iyong hospital beds, iyong ICU beds, iyong mechanical ventilator at saka mga isolation beds -- ay nasa 63 percent or ito po ay moderate risk pa lamang. (The critical care utilization of Metro Manila -- this includes hospital beds, ICU beds, mechanical ventilators and isolation beds -- is at 63 percent or moderate risk),” he said. Based on a meeting between the Department of Health (DOH) and medical directors of all hospitals in Metro Manila, Roque agreed that the allotted 30 percent bed capacity of each hospital has not been breached yet.

| July 4-10, 2020

“Lahat naman po sila na nandoon sa pulong na binubuo ng mga hospital administrators, lahat po sila ay sinabi na tama kung sasabihin ko na hindi pa po puno iyong 30 percent capacity ng lahat ng hospital beds na dedicated sa Covid (All those present during the meeting composed of hospital administrators have said that it is correct to say that the 30 percent bed capacity has not yet been breached),” he said. Meanwhile, he also bared that Health Undersecretary Leopoldo Bong Vega will be the new head of the Hospital One Incident Command. “Siya na po ang magiging point person sa pag-determine ng critical care utilization and hospital care and capacity (He will be the point person tasked to determine the critical care utilization and hospital care and capacity),” he said. Roque said President Rodrigo Duterte is set to address the public in Davao City on Tuesday (July 7) to give updates on the Covid-19 situation. (PNA)

WHO suspends hydroxychloroquine trial for second time The World Health Organization (WHO) on Saturday said it stopped a clinical trial of the anti-malaria drug hydroxychloroquine to treat coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) patients.

“WHO today accepted the recommendation from the Solidarity Trial’s International Steering Committee to discontinue the trial’s hydroxychloroquine and lopinavir/ ritonavir arms,” the WHO said in a statement. “The Solidarity Trial was established by WHO to find an effective Covid-19 treatment for hospitalized patients.”

In May, the WHO said that due to safety concerns, it was temporarily halting a clinical trial of hydroxychloroquine for Covid-19 patients. Since first appearing in Wuhan, China last December, the coronavirus disease has spread to at least 188 countries and regions.

The US, Brazil and Russia are The organization said that currently the countries hardest hit in the world. according to interim trial results, “hydroxychloroquine and lopinavir/ The pandemic has killed more ritonavir produce little or no reduction than 528,200 people worldwide, with an in the mortality of hospitalized Covid-19 excess of 11.1 million confirmed cases patients when compared to standard and greater than 6 million recoveries, of care. Solidarity trial investigators according to figures compiled by will interrupt the trials with immediate US-based Johns Hopkins University. (Anadolu) effect.” July 4-10, 2020 |

AFP air, naval assets transport 2M pounds of Covid-19 supplies By Priam Nepomuceno

Air and naval assets of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) have so far transported over 2 million pounds of cargo as of July 1 to alleviate the effects of the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic. In a statement on Saturday, AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Felimon Santos Jr. said the Philippine Air Force (PAF) has dedicated seven aircraft for the mission while the Philippine Navy (PN) has used AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Felimon Santos 16 ships. Jr. (File photo) The PAF has also logged more than 881 flying hours in total with its two C-130 and three C-295 doing most of the heavy airlifting while logistics support vessels BRP Bacolod City and BRP Dagupan and landing craft BRP Batak led the PN efforts. “We understand that the fight is far from over but I would like to express our gratitude to the tireless men and women who continue to work behind the scenes loading, flying, steering, and maintaining our ships and aircraft nonstop for more than three months now,” Santos added. Meanwhile, land operations have also transported persons and supplies nationwide with over 261 vehicles

| July 4-10, 2020

currently in use. As of July 1, over 2.2 million food packs have also been transported and 123,000 passengers were accommodated as reported by the AFP’s Unified Commands and Major Services. “The strength of our will is being tested by this pandemic and every day we continue to prove nothing can wear our troops out. As I near the end of my term as Chief of Staff, I am confident that our soldiers will carry on with the selfless service that has so far marked the AFP’s legacy in this pandemic,” Santos said. (PNA)

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Caraga InFocus – July 4-10, 2020

Articles inside

WHO suspends hydroxychloroquine trial for second time

AFP air, naval assets transport 2M pounds of Covid-19 supplies

COVID-19 NEWS

Public should not be alarmed by jump in Covid-19 cases

DA proposes P284-B budget for 2021

PRRD to Filipinos: Follow conditions for non-essential travel

Duterte to Filipinos: Let’s build ‘better, more prosperous’ PH

NGOs donate 39 portable hand-washing facilities to SurSur

SSS amends guidelines on temporary ACOP suspension

P15-M emergency vehicles released to 14 Agusan Sur LGUs

NATIONAL NEWS

BARMM gives P15-M aid for additional Covid-19 lab

MINDANAO NEWS

ECQ imposed in mining firm premises in Surigao Norte

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Online course on practicing COVID-19 preventive measures in the workplace now open to public

Government agencies, media hand-over relief assistance to remote village in AgSur town

Former rebels in AgSur town receive aid from government

TESDA distributes toolkits to SSTP scholars in AgNor town

AgSur farmers disowns NAMASUR, creates a new association as their own

TESDA Agusan Norte holds forum on assessment center managers

Roads at landslide-prone area near completion amidst pandemic