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[ Contents 24-30 March 2018
Volume II, No. 51
More than 400 IPs to participate in IP Leaders Summit in Butuan ASEAN NEWS
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Filipino sits as deputy secgen to ASEAN Economic Community
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Marawi fishermen get P2-M fishing needs
Manila makes JLL’s top 20 cities in Asia Pacific
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DOST to build PH largest antenna in Davao
REGIONAL NEWS
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18 19 20 21 22
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213 Caraga students qualify as DOST scholars PNP tightens security measures in Caraga for Holy Week Teenage pregnancy in Caraga drops, survey shows
PROVINCIAL NEWS
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MINDANAO NEWS
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Agusan Norte LGU controls rice black bug infestation
NATIONAL NEWS
DTI discusses Higaonon Coffee growers’ needs in AgSur barangay Negosyo Center-Bayugan City stakeholders’ meeting focuses on 1st Quarter 2018 activities MGB-13, CREDO, CMCRI and CMSHC hold 1st quarterly Press Conference
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PWH opens P273.5-M bridge in Ilocos Sur PRRD praised for serving Pinoys despite ‘threats’ to presidency
DTI Dinagat Islands conducts CMCI roll-out AFP, PNP remain on alert for 49th NPA anniversary Tired in the movement, former rebel returns to gov’t fold PCOO chief to take “3-Pointer ng Bayan” in all 113 cities nationwide
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News Briefs An NPA member was killed and one AK47 rifle was recovered after government troops of 29IB clashed with the CPPNPA-Terrorists (CNTs) of squad 21C, SECOM21, NEMRC at Sitio Kaunlaran, Brgy. Tagbongabong, RTR, Agusan del Norte on Mar. 26 afternoon. The success of the security operation was brought by the cooperation coming from the civilians who are tired of the NPA’s deception.
OPAPP sectetary Jesus Dureza, during the IP Leaders Summit held in Butuan City, encourages Indigenous Peoples of Caraga region to preserve their individual identity and culture. A 3.5 magnitude quake jolted Surigao del Norte at 10:51am, Mar. 30 2018, (109.790N, 125.390E - 004 km N 570) west of San Francisco town (Anao-aon). The quake, which was tectonic in origin, was felt at intensity I in Borongan City and intensity IV in Surigao City. Phivolcs said no damages are reported and no aftershocks are expected. Col. Andres Centino, brigade commander of the 401st Infantry (Unity) Brigade of the Philippine Army (PA), bared that the Community Support Program (CSP) they launched during the late part of February this year would last for a couple of months.
Cover Story
More than 400 IPs to part Summit in Butuan By: Jennifer P. Gaitano
BUTUAN CITY - More than 400 Indigenous Peoples (IPs) will converge for the Caraga-wide IP Leaders Summit dubbed “Lumadnong Panaglambigitay Alang sa Kalinaw og Kalambuan sa Caraga� happening on March 25-26, 2018 at the Oazis Hotel, this city. The Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) chaired by Agusan del Norte Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell Matba-Amante is spearheading said activity, with the collaboration of the different government agencies and local government units in the region.
Quintayo is expected to attend and deliver his inspirational message to all the attendees.
Dir. Dumagan also said that during the Day-1 of the two-day summit, the NCIP will lead the discussion and open forum on IP issues and concerns with the According to Atty. Jose Dumagan presence of the heads of government Jr., Program Committee chair and agencies concerned, who will also give/ National Commission on Indigenous present their corresponding responses. Peoples (NCIP) regional director, NCIP chairperson Atty. Leonor Oralde- The Higaonon tribe will offer and
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ticipate in IP Leaders perform a ritual right before every start of the 2-day IP Summit. “During the second day of the IP Leaders Summit, guests and participants will also witness the cultural presentation by the Manobo, Mamanwa, Higaonon, Banwaon, and Limbay tribes,” added Dir. Dumagan.
Dumagan revealed.
Meanwhile, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Caraga regional director and RPOC head secretariat Lilibeth Famacion opined that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) have already put in place their unified security efforts to ensure safety of the participants and guests, and to make the event peaceful and successful.
Participating IPs will sign the pledge of commitment for the Indigenous Cultural Communities/ Indigenous Peoples declaration and manifestation. It will then be turnedover to the President. “Gov. Matba and Butuan City Mayor Ronnie Vicente Lagnada “Secretary Jesus Dureza of the will also share their messages and Office of the Presidential Adviser on guaranteed that the city and the Peace Process (OPAPP) is the guest provincial governments will always find speaker in lieu of President Rodrigo Roa way to address the concerns of the IPs Duterte and will deliver his message and promote their welfare,” highlighted in the second day of the summit,” Famacion. (Caraga)
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Filipino sits as deputy sec-gen to ASEAN Economic Community
By: Joyce Ann L. Rocamora
MANILA - A Filipino economist now sits as the new deputy secretary-general (DSG) of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC). Dr. Aladdin Rillo took office on March 26 as the newly appointed DSG for the period 2018 to 2021. Guided by the ASEAN Charter, he will support the secretary-general of the ASEAN by providing leadership in the implementation of the AEC Blueprint 2025 and will lead the AEC Department of the ASEAN Secretariat. Rillo, who succeeded Lim Hong Hin of Brunei Darussalam, will also provide strategic policy advice to support ASEAN’s economic integration agenda. 24 - 30 March, 2018
Prior to assuming the position, Rillo worked as senior economist at the Asian Development Bank Institute (ADBI) in Tokyo, Japan where he designed and administered capacity building training and policy dialogue on development issues. From 2008 to 2013, he served the ASEAN Secretariat as head of the Finance Integration Division ‎(2008-2010) and director and chief
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economist of the ASEAN Integration designated four deputy secretariesMonitoring Office (2010-2013). general from four different ASEAN Member States. During those periods, he spearheaded the implementation of The ASEAN website shows two regional economic surveillance and DSGs are nominated by Member integration monitoring in ASEAN. States on a rotational basis for a nonrenewable term of three years while According to his profile page at two DSGs are openly-recruited based the ADBI, Rillo obtained his master’s on merit for a three-year term, which and doctoral degrees in economics may be renewed for another three from the University of Hawaii at Manoa. years. Under the ASEAN Charter, Rillo is one of the two openlythe ASEAN secretary-general is recruited DSGs. (PNA)
Manila makes JLL’s top 20 cities in Asia Pacific By: Kris Crismundo
MANILA - The country’s capital is included in the top 20 cities in Asia Pacific in the Short-Term City Momentum Index (CMI) of 2018 of JLL, a global professional services firm in real estate and investment management. Manila has been ranked 18th in the region -- as one of the best destinations for global capital, business, and innovation -- surpassing other cities in the ASEAN such as Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore.
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The report measures city’s short-term momentum looking at its population, connectivity, real estate investment, property prices, economic output, corporate activity, construction, and retail sales. 24 - 30 March, 2018
The top three cities in the study were India’s Hyderabad and Bangalore “The inclusion of Manila in the top and Vietnam’s Ho Chi Minh. 20 confirms the country’s comparative advantage in innovation and attracting “These cities made the cut global capital given the various because they are now considered key economic and infrastructure reforms expansion markets for many corporates under the Duterte administration, and are drawing particular interest from demographic sweet spot in terms of Chinese companies,” JLL Philippines rich human resource talents, growing Head of Research and Consulting Janlo population, stronger corporate de los Reyes said. performance and consumer base, aggressive real estate development “They also boast of the highest and construction activities,” Lopez told levels of real estate completions the Philippine News Agency (PNA) in a across the globe as they build out the text message. infrastructure to meet this demand,” De los Reyes added. “This would prepare even more our country for the future,” he added. JLL Director for Global Research (PNA) Jeremy Kelly noted that robust economic growth also leads to challenges, particularly meeting infrastructure requirement, affordability constraints, and environmental degradation. JLL Philippines Country Head Christophe Vicic echoed the same sentiment, adding that the government should be keen on adapting technologies to address infrastructure challenges and sustain economic growth for long term. “Manila is no exception. We are already experiencing strains on our airports, major roads, and public services. The city must adapt to the rate of its own growth for the latter to be sustainable,” said Vicic. Meanwhile, Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez welcomed the inclusion of Manila in JLL’s top 20 cities. 24 - 30 March, 2018
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Regional News
213 Caraga students qualify as DOST scholars BUTUAN CITY - The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Caraga announced over the weekend a total of 213 passers from Caraga region composed of 168 scholars for its Republic Act (RA) 7687 Scholarship program and 45 in the Merit Scholarship. DOST-Science Education Institute (SEI) also announced an increase in the monthly stipend of all scholars. Scholars will receive P7,000 every month starting School Year 2018-2019.
of the K-12 Curriculum, announced 8,994 new qualifiers for its RA 7687 and Merit Scholarship programs.
Out of the total number of passers, 5,172 qualified as scholars under the RA Thousands of aspiring scientists 7687 Scholarship Program, scholarships and engineers will enter college with for gifted students who belong to the DOST-SEI scholarship stamp. economically disadvantaged families; while 3,822 passed under the DOST-SEI The country’s premier science Merit Scholarship Program. scholarship program, back after a twoyear hiatus due to the implementation It is a record-breaking year for
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REGIONAL NEWS DOST-SEI as the number of qualified students reached the highest mark since the scholarship program started in 1958, surpassing 2015’s 5,303 qualifiers by 69.60 percent. The 2018 DOST-SEI Scholarships Examination, which was held on October 15, 2017 in 216 test centers nationwide, recorded the highest number of examinees with 46,434 students.
Scholarship Program also increased from 1,568 in 2015 to 1,609 this year representing 97 percent of the country’s total number of municipalities and congressional districts.
The scholars are also entitled to tuition fee subsidy; book allowance; MS/ PE clothing allowance; one economyclass round-trip fare per year for those studying outside of their home province; Municipalities and congressional and group accident insurance. (DOST/ districts covered by the DOST-SEI PIA-Caraga)
PNP tightens security measures in Caraga for Holy Week
InterAksyon
BUTUAN CITY - As part of the preparation for the Holy Week, Police Regional Office 13 (PRO13) regional director CSupt. Noli Romana has already placed all Philippine National Police (PNP) units in the region on full alert status to maintain public safety services and provide maximum security coverage during the observance of “Panaad 2018”. 24 - 30 March, 2018
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REGIONAL NEWS Chief Supt. Romana reminded all unit commanders to secure all vital installations, economic key points as well as places of convergence and to ensure a high state of operational readiness to deter criminal activities and thwart any hostile action that may be launched by terrorist groups. PNP personnel will be deployed in all areas of convergence to provide police presence and other police safety services. They will conduct random checkpoints in various areas of Caraga to stop any possible threats and unpleasant doings of various groups who might be taking advantage of the situation to carry out their unlawful activities.
Also, PRO13 will intensify intelligence monitoring and still focus on law enforcement operations to ensure safe observance of the Holy Week. “We are undertaking all the necessary steps for a solemn observance of the Lenten Season and a stress-free holiday break,” Romana said. “Even with the round-the-clock security preparations of PNP Caraga, it is important for the residents and travelers to observe extra-precautionary measures for their personal security and safety especially if they opted to go for an out-of-town activity during the blessed week,” he added. (PRO13/ PIA-Caraga)
Teenage pregnancy in Caraga drops, survey shows
BUTUAN CITY - Percentage of women age 15-19 in Caraga, who have begun childbearing significantly decreased from 38 percent in 2013 to 8.2 percent in 2017 based on the preliminary results of the 2017 National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). However, the said survey also revealed that the Philippines still has the highest number of teenage pregnancy among other Asian countries.
of various program partners, in both private and government sectors, at the local level – promoting responsible sexuality, reproductive rights and health education among Caraganon youth,” The said latest survey results Commission on Population (POPCOM) placed Caraga at number 8. Previously, - Caraga Director Alexander A. the region ranked number 1. Makinano said. “The 20 percent decrease of Increasing births among the region’s early pregnancy can adolescents is one critical emerging be attributed to concerted efforts population issue, POPCOM revealed.
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REGIONAL NEWS
RD Makinano further underlined the importance of an inter-agency and inter-sectoral collaboration and support, from the national down to the regional or local level in the implementation of various Adolescent Health and Development key Strategies to address said issues. As agreed during the 1st Quarter-Regional Implementation Team meeting, RIT has to formulate a Teenage Pregnancy Prevention Strategic Plan to strengthen the advocacy and further reduce teenage pregnancy rate in the region. The plan includes implementation of age-and development-appropriate education and counseling on sexuality and reproductive health throughout the region; to educate and engage 24 - 30 March, 2018
parents and communities to initiate opportunities for positive youth development and involvement; intensify the ongoing awareness of teenage pregnancy prevention through various AHD activities; and continue to provide all Caraganon youth with access to reproductive healthcare and preventive services. POPCOM emphasizes that youth should not be deprived of reproductive health services and comprehensive sexuality and education (CSE) for these would help them become healthy, happy and empowered adolescents. CSE is an instructional method where young Filipinos gain knowledge, attitudes, skills and values to make appropriate and healthy choices
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REGIONAL NEWS in their sexual behaviors. POPCOM further elaborated that CSE can help prevent the young from unintended pregnancies, contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and from domestic and sexual violence. The agency is currently working with stakeholders in pushing for CSE implementation that can also help Filipino women better their lives, educationally and economically. CSE is also a salient feature of the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health (RPRH) Law. POPCOM, meanwhile, is addressing this teenage pregnancy issue through its various Adolescent Health and Development (AHD) key strategies that aim to significantly reduce and prevent early and
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unintended pregnancies among adolescents through responsible sexuality and effective life skills among young people. Among POPCOM’s AHD initiatives, are the Sexually Healthy and Personally Effective (SHAPE) Adolescents Training; U4U, where young people can access information through social media; Interactive Voice Response System; and Teen Trail Events, where the youth are provided with responsible sexuality information; and the agency’s latest initiative is the AHD Film Dissemination, where the audiences watch, reflect, engage with bigger picture, and ultimately, take action to address reproductive health issues in their own lives and communities. (POPCOM-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)
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Provincial News
Agusan del Norte
Agusan Norte LGU controls rice black bug infestation By: Aimee B. Sienes
BUTUAN CITY – The provincial government of Agusan del Norte is urging all rice-producing city and municipalities in the province to participate and adopt a synchronized light trapping activities and institute integrated approaches to control the infestation of rice black bugs (RBBs) in the province. It was learned that the Provincial Agriculture’s Office has conducted plant diseases and pests surveillance due to the reported incidence of RBBs attach affects the rice farms in the province. Based on the validated report from the surveillance team, the areas affected by the RBBs infestation were the municipalities of Kitcharao, Jabonga, Las Nieves and Buenavista. It was also reported that massive and intensive insecticide applications failed to control rice crop damages, but instead the process killed the natural enemies of RBBs like wasps, long-joined spiders, red ants, damsel bugs and other beneficial insects.
management and biological control, the use of light traps with high intensity of light rays is highly recommended to use because it can easily attract the black bugs that caused them from entrapping. It was recommended that the light trapping be done three days before and three days after the full moon, since it is during this period that RBBS attack and they are trapped and collected and buried underground.
The call for urgency of the city and municipalities in the province to use the light trapping was to prevent the infestation of RBBs and save the rice farms from further damage. (LGU According to Provincial Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Agriculture’s Office, aside from water Norte) 24 - 30 March, 2018
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PROVINCIAL NEWS
Agusan del Sur
DTI discusses Higaonon Coffee growers’ needs in AgSur barangay ESPERANZA, Agusan del Sur – “Balikan lang” or a return within the day of travel is not possible when your destination is Barangay Kalabuan, this municipality.
This is what two technical staff of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Agusan del Sur (AdS) and a staff from the Municipal Agriculture Office (MAO) of this municipality prepared for when they recently visited the said barangay to check the presence of a thriving local how the Higaonon coffee producers coffee industry in the area. processed their coffee beans using Kalabuan is a distant upland mortar and pestle to break open the fresh barangay located northwest of Esperanza, ripened coffee beans before exposing where majority of the population are them to sunlight for drying purposes. members of the Higaonon tribe. As observed, due to some unrefined Reonel Aninon, a technical staff preparation methods, quality of coffee of DTI-AdS and Charlz Palen of Negosyo are affected which resulted in their being Center (NC)-Esperanza, together with bought at a lower price. Dionifil Carin of the MAO stayed overnight Aninon, the Provincial Shared to assess the needs of the coffee growers Service Facilitaty (SSF) and Industry Cluster in the area. Enhancement (ICE) Coordinator, said the Together with the coffee farmer- provincial office will continue to engage growers they identified the facilities closely with the group and work for the required to improve the quality of their provision of their coffee enterprise needs. coffee beans. The intervention will help With the provision of appropriate increase the income of the growers. post-harvest equipment and processing During the visit, the team witnessed facilities in the area, Higaonon coffee
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PROVINCIAL NEWS producers hopefully will be able to produce good quality dried coffee beans, thus enabling them to increase their respective household incomes.
With or without follow through funding support from the national office, DTI AdS hopes to continue to give development interventions emphasizing on skills and entrepreneurial development Esperanza town has been named through the now operational Negosyo pilot municipality for DTI’s Project Entrep Center-Esperanza. (DTI-Agusan del Sur/ and Strike Team for Indigenous Peoples. PIA-Agusan del Sur)
Negosyo Center-Bayugan City stakeholders’ meeting focuses on 1st Quarter 2018 activities
BAYUGAN CITY, Agusan del Sur – Skills enhancement on cut flower production cum marketing, business planning seminar, simple record keeping, and skills training on guitar making – these are just some of the activities lined up by Negosyo Center (NC)-Bayugan City for the first quarter of 2018. The meeting was presided by Department of Trade and IndustryAgusan del Sur (DTI-AdS) Supervising Trade and Industry Development Specialist Jose Baron. Officials/officers of LGU-Bayugan City, Bayugan City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), and other national government agencies attended said meeting. In attendance as well were some local producers and processors. The skills enhancement on cut flower production cum marketing seminar was conducted in Barangay Magkiangkang as scheduled on January 30 to 31, 2018. 24 - 30 March, 2018
A similar training was also conducted for Barangay Mt. Olive on February 7 to 8. On February 15 to 16, the Business Planning Seminar was held and a Simple Record Keeping Seminar on February 22 to 23. The skills training on guitar making arranged originally for last year will finally push through this March 2018. NC-Bayugan City counselors Elphie Plaza and Charlott Carl Pingol also reported on the center’s 2017 accomplishments. Both have been tasked to ensure implementation of these activities and strengthen the center’s operation for the business sector. (DTI-Agusan del Sur/PIAAgusan del Sur)
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PROVINCIAL NEWS
Surigao del Norte
MGB-13, CREDO, CMCRI and CMSHC hold 1st quarterly Press Conference SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte - The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) Regional Office No. 13, in cooperation with the Community Relations, Education and Development Officers Organization (CREDO Caraga), Inc., Chamber of Mines of Caraga Region Incorporated (CMCRI) and Caraga Mine Safety and Health Council (CMSHC), held a press conference on March 16, 2018 at the Philippine Gateway Hotel, this city.
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The activity aimed to heighten public awareness of the assistance and rescue efforts of the Caraga minerals industry after the onslaught of Tropical Storm Basyang that inflicted loss of life and property damage.
The Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Surigao del Norte Information Center, media reporters from different media outfits and Northern Mindanao Broadcasting System (NMBS) participated in the press conference.
It also aimed to inform the public of the state of small-scale mining activities in Caraga Region. In addition, the activity sought to strengthen the participation of and dialogue between the media and the mining stakeholders in achieving their common goals of ethical mining, ecological sustainability and authentic development.
Resident Mine Managers, Community Relations Officers and a good number of personnel from Caraga mining companies attended the activity. Before the press conference proper, MGB Division chief Romeo M. Dalodado gave a comprehensive presentation on the assessment on the effects of 24 - 30 March, 2018
PROVINCIAL NEWS Tropical Storm Basyang in the region; Mine Safety, Environment and Social Development Division chief Engr. Francis Glenn N. Suante presented the effects of Tropical Storm Basyang on Caraga Mining Companies while Engr. Lilibeth P. Gimoto, MGB Mine Management Division, gave a presentation on Small-Scale Mining Updates in Caraga Region.
Likewise, the Chamber of Mines of Caraga Region Incorporated (CMCRI) presented the Rescue and Relief Operations including the photodocumentation of the rescue and relief operations of Caraga Mining Companies after the onslaught of Tropical Storm Basyang. (MGB-13/PIA-Surigao del Norte)
DTI Dinagat Islands conducts CMCI roll-out SAN JOSE, Dinagat Islands - The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) commenced its 2018 Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index (CMCI) Roll-out in Dinagat Islands spearheaded by the National Competitiveness Council (NCC) on March 22, 2018 held at San Jose Negosyo Center, Sta. Cruz, San Jose town. The annual ranking of provinces, cities and municipalities through CMCI focuses on the LGU’s status and level of competitiveness in four major pillars: economic dynamism, government efficiency, infrastructure and resiliency. During the activity, DTI-Caraga CMCI focal person Marson Jan S. Dolendo presented the LGU’s ranking and level of competitiveness. Dolendo also proudly announced that out of five provinces in Caraga region, the province of Dinagat Islands is ranked fourth on the annual ranking 24 - 30 March, 2018
level of competitiveness though it composed only of seven municipalities. The said activity was attended by the Business Permit Processing Licensing Office (BPLO) officer, CMCI focal person, representatives of Municipal Planning and Development Officer, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Provincial Planning and Development Office, Provincial Cooperative and Development Office, Banks and business sector from seven municipalities of the province. (DTIDinagat Islands/PIA-Dinagat Islands)
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PROVINCIAL NEWS
Surigao del Sur
AFP, PNP remain on alert for 49th NPA anniversary
By: Greg Tataro, Jr.
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur - Both the army (PA) and police in Surigao del Sur have voiced readiness for any eventuality with regard to possible atrocities that the New People’s Army (NPA) may have planned to highlight their 49th anniversary celebration on March 29. Cpt. Francisco Garello, Jr., civil military operations (CMO) officer of the 36th Infantry (Valor) Battalion (36IB) under LTC Xerxes Trinidad, made the assurance that security measures had already been put in place. The battalion CMO had even stressed about carrying out a tactical offensive Earlier, the battalion headquarters issued a statement on getting reports of continued threat, hence “Martial law efforts” had been intensified, citing the conduct of a joint AFP-PNP checkpoints.
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However, when asked whether
an intelligence report had been received on rebels planning to hold an anniversary celebration, the CMO refused to comment. He replied instead that doing so might undermine their action. Prior to this, PNP Provincial Director (PD) PSSupt. Francisco Dungo, Jr. said that his command had already issued order to all lower units to implement security measures. He pointed out that the same was already covered under the Operation Plan Summer Vacation (Oplan SumVac). (Radyo PilipinasTandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur) 24 - 30 March, 2018
PROVINCIAL NEWS
Tired in the movement, former rebel returns to gov’t fold By: Nida Grace P. Barcena
SURIGAO DEL SUR - Known as “Anghel” or “Ian” to his comrades in the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People’s Army Terrorist (CNT) group, he left his group last April 2017 and went into hiding in order to save his life. On March 25, 2018, he finally surrendered himself to the 36th Infantry Battalion Headquarters in Barangay Dayoan, Tago, Surigao del Sur around 10:00 o’clock in the evening. The unjust policies, which he believed could help him alleviate his way of life and survive poverty as he entered the movement long before, were not true; instead he experienced additional municipality of Lianga this province and burdens and hardships, a.k.a Anghel or with the assistance of Major Jerson B. Ian narrated. Igloria of the 4CMO Battalion, Anghel or Ian surrendered to Lt. Colonel Xerxes Jed Tanog Quiñonez, his real Trinidad, 36IB commanding officer, name, revealed that “the promises bringing along with him the following: made by the CPP-NPA to him that they three (3) firearms; one (1) M1 Garand will extend financial support to his family, Rifle (defaced), one (1) .38 Caliber Pistol provide free education, and help them (defaced), and one (1) improvised/ resolve their land issues and concerns homemade rifle. did not happen in reality, even just one of these promises. This slowly pushed him The untiring combat operations to realize, and heed himself to go back implemented by the troops of the to the folds of the law. Philippine Army and the series of security awareness conducted with the help of With the help of Datu Jomar the stakeholders in the province made Sabas Bucales, a tribal leader of the the NPA rebels heed to surrender, 24 - 30 March, 2018
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PROVINCIAL NEWS according to an army official.
accept those who wanted to go back to the folds of the law and give their “The military’s relentless combat share in achieving the long and lasting operations and security awareness peace that will bring development in our campaign to all sectors of the society community, Lt. Col. Trinidad concluded. made the CNT members realize the futility of their armed struggle. We call As of press time a.k.a. Anghel once again to the remaining CPP-NPA or Ian is now safe and will undergo terrorist, to follow suit and choose a the procedure as he returns to the peaceful path,” Lt. Col. Trinidad said in government in order to avail of the a press statement. government programs intended to former rebels. (NGBT/PIA-Surigao del The government is very willing to Sur)
PCOO chief to take “3-Pointer ng Bayan” in all 113 cities nationwide
By: Greg Tataro, Jr.
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur - Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar has assured that the “3-Pointer ng Bayan” is going to see action in all 113 cities nationwide, saying that they have already started to get the ball rolling since its launch at Verdant Basketball court in Las Piñas City on Sunday. He said that an “initial roll out” for part of the event in the province. the “competition” had also taken place even in Lala town, Lanao del Norte and In keeping with the advocacy on in Iligan City as well. war on illegal drugs, corruption, and criminality, Secretary Andanar stressed The PCOO secretary swore to bring that 3-Pointer ng Bayan was organized the 3-Pointer ng Bayan in Tandag City by “Ready Set Go” movement by way and in all cities of Caraga region after of basketball for the youth. He said that the Holy Week. Go had been known to be a basketball fan and player himself and quite good Upon learning that Surigao del Sur at three-point play in court. Governor Vicente “BB” Pimentel was set to hold the opening of the Governor’s With this, the PCOO chief admitted Basketball Cup in early April this year, he that it was also their way of coaxing said that he might as well coordinate Special Assistant to the President (SAP) their activity with the local government Christopher “Bong” Go to run for senator unit (LGU) here to have the same be in 2019 midterm elections.
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PROVINCIAL NEWS
The special assistant to the president had what it takes to be a senator, Andanar said of Go, being brilliant, dedicated and experienced. The PCOO chief bared that SAP Go had an extensive knowledge in both executive and legislative matters, citing the work experience with President Rodrigo Duterte, who had held the post as mayor, vice-mayor and congressman in the past. Asked how would SAP Go do the rounds to be visible in the eyes of countrymen in case he would accept the challenge to run for public office since he had to be always by the side of 24 - 30 March, 2018
the president, Sec. Andanar was quick to say that it was not that necessary. He indicated that being with the president all the time could already be considered a good exposure. And since SAP Go seemed to be still parrying questions on the issue, the PCOO chief explained that it would also depend on the Magic 12 senate race surveys. Secretary Andanar likewise said that President Duterte would certainly back SAP Bong Go to have a career of his own. (NGBT/Radyo Pilipinas-Tandag/ PIA-Surigao del Sur)
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Mindanao News
Marawi fishermen get P2-M fishing needs By: Noel Punzalan
COTABATO CITY - The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BFARARMM) turned over Tuesday some PHP2 million worth of fishing needs in Marawi City under the agency’s Municipal Fishing Vessel and Gear Registration package, or the BoatR program. BFAR-ARMM Director Janice Desamito-Musali said this developed after the agency identified the city as one of the best performing local government units (LGUs) in the country in terms of fisheries and management of its aquatic resources.
city hall, BFAR-ARMM personnel led by Desamito-Musali handed over 50 units of non-motorized fiberglass boat with a complete set of accessories, gears (spear guns, fish pots with a bamboo pole each, gillnets and snorkels) and fish stalls to identified beneficiaries.
Marawi fishermen get their daily bounty through Lake Lanao, the largest lake in Mindanao and the second largest in the country, which they share with fisher folk from other parts of Lanao del Sur province.
“It is important that we help our fisher folk by empowering them, not by spoon-feeding them because I don’t believe that real fisher folk will starve,” Musali said in her speech.
Gandamra, for his part, With Marawi Mayor Majul Usman acknowledged BFAR-ARMM’s Gandamra witnessing the event at the assistance, emphasizing that the fishing
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MINDANAO NEWS inputs can support much local fisher and support LGUs on the registration folk in their livelihood as the city reels and management of community off from a terrorist-instigated siege last fishing boats and gears nationwide. year. More so, the program aims to The mayor assured that the prescribe a centralized database fishing equipment would be well taken system to guide LGUs in the conduct care of amid the city’s continued of the registration of fishing boats rehabilitation. with three gross tonnage and below The BoatR program intends to assist nationwide. (PNA)
DOST to build PH largest antenna in Davao
By: Armando Fenequito, Jr.
DAVAO CITY – The Department of Science and Technology in Davao Region (DOST-11) will build the largest tracking antenna in the Philippines in Davao City as part of its strong commitment in providing innovative solution through research and development.
DOST 11 director Anthony Sales said the facility is covered by a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between DOST 11 and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) for the establishment of a Remote MultiMission Antenna System (RMMAS).
Tracking Antenna with Radome and a 40-foot container van which serves as the control room. The ground facility is designed to communicate with Earth Observation (EO) satellites deployed in space,” Sales said.
The ground facility is designed to “This will include a 7.3 Meter communicate with Earth Observation
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MINDANAO NEWS satellites deployed in space by receiving, processing, exploiting and distributing space-borne imagery and derive information from the supported remote sensing satellites for various applications such as disaster mitigation, natural resource management, environmental monitoring, pollution control, energy exploration, intelligence and emergency response management.
The agreement is aimed at sending two satellites in space, with Diwata-1 being the first. Diwata-1 started this mission in the 1st quarter of 2016 when it was deployed successfully from the International Space Station (ISS).
All the images and data taken by the EO’s will be sent to the Philippine Earth Data Resources Observation “Target date of completion of this (PEDRO). Two 50-kg class microsatellites facility is in the third quarter this year,” called Diwata-1 and Diwata-2 will he said. work for hand in hand in space for a multi-spectral high precision earth After the establishment of the observation. facility, Sales said the DOST 11 as a partner agency, will be in charge of With the intensified utilization of the monitoring, maintenance and satellites, its applications cater many troubleshooting of the system. areas including disaster prevention and the environment. The project is part of a multiThe ground stations thus contribute agency research and development effort of Japan Aerospace Exploration to the establishment of a prosperous, Agency (JAXA), wherein DOST safe, and secure society. collaborates for its Philippine Scientific The free services that this facility Earth Observation Micro-satellite (PHL- Microsat) Program along with University can offer is providing satellite raw images, conducting image analysis and of the Philippines (UP) Diliman, DOSTprocessing to perform but not limited to ASTI and two Japanese academic the Post-disaster Damage Assessment, institutions, Tohoku University (TU) and Landslide Hazard Assessment, Flood Hokkaido University (HU). Extent Mapping, Monitoring of Volcanic Meanwhile, Diwata-1 and 2 are part of DOST’s 10-year PHP24-billion Space Technology Development (STD) Program – presented to the cabinet in January 2017 by DOST Secretary Fortunato de la Peña and approved by President Rodrigo Duterte.
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Activity, Sea Level Rise Monitoring, Forest Fire Monitoring and Assessment, Post-earthquake Damage Assessment, Forest Cover Assessment (SAR or NDVI from optical), Illegal Logging Monitoring, Urban Sprawl Assessment, Rice Yield Estimation (SAR), and Building footprint mapping. (PNA) 24 - 30 March, 2018
National News
PWH opens P273.5-M bridge in Ilocos Sur MANILA - The 665-lineal meter bridge that is seen to support livelihood and tourism in the southern part Ilocos Sur has been completed by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
DPWH Region 1 Director Ronnel Tan said the P273 million Sugpon Bridge along Alilem-Sugpon-Sudipen Road in the municipality of Sugpon has already been opened to the motoring public in time for the Lenten Season.
Director Tan. “Prior to the construction of the bridge, Amburayan River is only passable during dry season and jeepneys are required to have dual operated system to be able to overcome the loose portions of the “The newly-built Sugpon Bridge riverbed,” added Director Tan. which is designed as an all-weather bridge now allows safer and faster link Sugpon Bridge project involves between the town of Sugpon, Ilocos the construction of a pre-stressed Sur to the outer towns of La Union, concrete girder deck slab bridge crossing Amburayan River. The local with 19 spans, and 4.5 lineal meters of residents and tourists won’t have to carriageway. It also has flood control resort to small boats or raftsjust to cross component, slope protection, and the river during rainy season,” said embankment protection. (DPWH) 24 - 30 March, 2018
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NATIONAL NEWS
PRRD praised for serving Pinoys despite ‘threats’ to presidency By: Azer Parrocha
MANILA - Despite what he described as “threats” to the presidency, Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo on Wednesday praised President Rodrigo R. Duterte for his dedication to serve and protect the Filipino people, in a birthday message for the President. “No matter the odds, unmindful of the danger that lurks and threaten your presidency, you have stood fast in complying with the directives and commands of the Constitution to serve and protect the Filipino people,” Panelo said in a greeting to his boss.
“Your war on drugs is reaping fruits, the country has a robust economy, your drive against corruption is in the upswing while your drive against criminality is taking a toll on the criminals. Foreign investments are pouring in and there is an influx of tourists. The upgrade of the salaries of workers have begun while the social services to the poor is in full swing. Poverty and employment is being addressed at, so is the problem on environment,” Panelo said.
Panelo also lauded Duterte for his administration’s achievements including the campaign against illegal drugs and criminality, the drive against corruption, projects aimed at increasing tourist arrivals, foreign investments, and He also pointed out that several the increase of workers’ salaries, among ASEAN leaders were in “awe and others. admiration” for Duterte’s “tough and yet
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NATIONAL NEWS
compassionate brand of leadership”. Panelo, meanwhile, expressed hope that Duterte’s fans and supporters will continue praying for him to be “shielded” from harm, injury and sickness. “The overwhelming majority of the Filipinos who placed you in the exalted office you now holds, have stormed the heavens with their prayers that the angels be sent to you to spread their wings to shield you from any harm, injury or sickness and to wish you on your birthday a continuing good health that you may continue to fulfill your mandate under the guidance of the Almighty’s wisdom and love. Many happy returns of the day. Cheers President Rody,” Panelo said. “As you add another page to your book of life, the gods of destiny appear to be smiling at how you have hurdled the formidable gauntlet they 24 - 30 March, 2018
have thrown at you, for surely you have mastered the art of playing at your foes, vexing your detractors and perflexing [sic] your allies as well, as you carry the burdens of the presidency with the erudition of a tactician and the dexterity of a magician,” he added. For his part, House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez praised the Chief Executive’s “competent leadership”. “No doubt, his long experience in public office, as prosecutor, congressman and Davao City Mayor, has adequately prepared him to assume the highest elective position and to lead the country towards political stability and sustained economic growth,” Alvarez said. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque earlier said the President will be spending his 73rd birthday quietly with family in his hometown, Davao City. (PNA)
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EDITORIAL BOARD Executive Editor
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GERIE MAE G. COCO RONNIE E. MADANGUIT Contributors
JENNIFER P. GAITANO Agusan del Sur
NIDA GRACE B. TRANQUILAN Surigao del Sur
SUSIL D. RAGAS
Surigao del Norte/Dinagat Islands
KRIS CRISMUNDO ARMANDO FENEQUITO, JR. NOEL PUNZALAN AZER PARROCHA JOYCE ANN L. ROCAMORA AIMEE B. SIENES GREG TATARO, JR. RADYO PILIPINAS-TANDAG LGU-AGUSAN DEL NORTE DTI-AGUSAN DEL SUR DTI-DINAGAT ISLANDS POPCOM-CARAGA PNA, DPWH DOST, PRO13 MGB-13 Business Managers
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