Caraga InFocus – May 1-7, 2021

Volume V, No. 19 May 1-7, 2021

REGIONAL NEWS

10 11 12 12 13 14 15 17 19 21 23 25 26 27 PROVINCIAL NEWS 29 31 32 33 37 40

PIA-13 TO LAUNCH FIRST KAPIHAN IN PARTNERSHIP WITH SM CITY BUTUAN OWWA CARAGA JOINS AGENCY’S 39TH ANNIV CELEBRATION

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DA, CSU PARTNER FOR MILK FEEDING PROGRAM AGRI RADIO DRAMA OFFERS INFOTAINMENT ON ‘RADYO ESKWELA’ CARAGA’S ECONOMIC PERFORMANCE DROPS BY 7.2%, GFCE POSTS GROWTH IN 2020 DA-CARAGA CULMINATES FILIPINO FOOD MONTH, SHOWCASES PINOY CUISINE

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PCAF BARES 2022 PLAN AND BUDGET, WELCOMES PROPOSAL FOR IMPROVEMENT

AGRI CHIEF PROMPTS TO TRANSFORM PH AGRIFISHERIES SECTOR 17 IP SOLDIERS COMPLETE DEPED ALS A&E PROGRAM IN BUTUAN CITY BRIDGING KNOWLEDGE, CLOSING THE GAP: IPS IN AGRICULTURE CARAGANONS GIAWHAG SA DOH-13 NGA MAGPADAYONG AGRESIBO BATOK COVID-19 MGA PAMPUBLIKO AT PRIBADONG SEKTOR SA BUTUAN NAGSANIB PWERSA LABAN COVID-19 ECOLOGICAL SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT SEMINAR GIPAHIGAYON SA BUTUAN CITY LGU-BUTUAN, BCPO DOBLE-BANTAY VS. ASF

COMPLETED IRRIGATION FOR AGSUR FARMERS WASHES AWAY CROPPING ‘FAILURE’

GOV’T SUPPORT TO FRS CONTINUES, AGSUR PTFELCAC GRANTS FINANCIAL AID

AGREEMENT INKED FOR AGRI-FISHERY SERVICES IN AGNOR AGNOR BARES 12 CORE PROCESSING PROJECTS FOR LGUS 14 MILISYANG BAYAN MEMBERS, 325 UGMOS SURRENDER TO ARMY AGNOR SCHOOL FACILITATES CONDUCT OF ANTIINSURGENCY CAMPAIGN

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ARMY, POLICE JOIN FORCES TO STOP NPA’S EXTORTION ADVENTURES AWAIT IN RTR, AGUSAN DEL NORTE ‘AGUS BLEND’ MODAGAYDAY SA AGUSAN DEL NORTE DETALYE SA PAGPAHILUNA SA PROYEKTONG “BEYOND RICE” SA RTR GIHISGUTAN SA TIGUM BAG-ONG BARANGAY HALL SA LUNGSOD SA MAGALLANES, GI-INTRIGO NA TESDA GRANTS BISLIG AGRI-FISHERY COMPLEX AS CERTIFIED FARM SCHOOL DA INTENSIFIES ASF INFO CARAVAN IN SURSUR, AGSUR LGU, DOT COLLABORATE TO BOOST SURSUR TOWN’S TOURISM POTENTIAL PANGALAWANG COVID-19 ISOLATION FACILITY SA SURSUR NG DPWH INAASAHANG MATATAPOS NGAYONG BUWAN PAGDIRIWANG NG MGA MAGSASAKA AT MANGINGISDA NGAYONG MAYO, IPINAUBAYA NA NG DA SA MGA LGUS U.S., PH CONCLUDE ‘CHILD PROTECTION COMPACT PARTNERSHIP’ DILG, LGU LIBJO TEAM UP TO PROMOTE VACCINE 25 COMDEV WORKERS MILAMPOS SA 10-DAY GENERAL ORIENTATION COURSE

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MINDANAO NEWS

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CONTENTS

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INFOCUS

COVER

Caraga

MINDA STARTS AVOCADO INDUSTRY UNITING FARMERS, STAKEHOLDERS

BARMM STARTS CONSTRUCTION OF ISOLATION HUB IN ARMY CAMP

NATIONAL NEWS OPEN, FREE PRESS REMAIN VITAL DURING PANDEMIC: ANDANAR

WE’RE DOING EVERYTHING TO ADDRESS COVID-19 — PRESIDENT DUTERTE

GOV’T TO FOCUS ON VULNERABLE AREAS IN COVID-19 VACCINE ROLLOUT P17-BILLION AID DISBURSED IN NCR-PLUS, SAYS INTERIOR CHIEF

PRESIDENT DUTERTE HONORS NATION’S FRONTLINERS IN LABOR DAY MESSAGE

COVID-19 NEWS AT LEAST 70% OF PINOYS EYED FOR VACCINATION THIS YEAR GOV’T WON’T STOP BUILDING TO ACHIEVE ‘BUFFER’ MEDICAL FACILITIES

PH TO GET UP TO 7M DOSES OF COVID-19 VAX IN MAY: GALVEZ

Statement of Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar on the World Press Freedom Day We join all journalists and members of the media in the Philippines and around the world in celebrating World Press Freedom Day. An open, free, and pluralistic press remains vital to a democratic, informed, and empowered society such as in our country. Its presence plays a key role in preventing people from being unknowing of essential and life-saving information and government programs and services, to which the situation we are all in currently calls for.

With the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of an open and free press has become very evident as it allows for the flow of essential and lifesaving information for us all. It has also assisted the Duterte administration in increasing public awareness of policies and programs, such as the ayuda payouts, targeted testing, and the current vaccine inoculation, which address the virus and its effects. The untiring reportage and coverage provided by the press on important matters have helped keep us updated of the facts and the news.

The Duterte administration knows the importance of a free press and continues to support it as an institution, with initiatives such as the Freedom of Information, Presidential Task Force on Media Security, and support for the expanded Sotto Law, to protect and promote the life, liberty, and security of media workers in the Philippines. The rights and freedom of the press have always been important to this administration as it benefits every Filipino.

May we continue to eradicate biased information, disinformation, and fake news that are damaging not only to our society, but also to the trust and relationship between the government and the people, by working together at this crucial time despite our differences.

We salute the heroism, commitment, and bravery of all journalists and media workers as they fulfill their work. We pray for the safety and well-being of everyone as we recover from this global health crisis.

- SEC. MARTIN M. ANDANAR

DOH-13 holds symbolic v rollout for essential servi

By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales

In celebration of Labor Day, a symbolic vaccination rollout for select workers under the A4 priority group was launched by the Department of Health (DOH) with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), where ten (10) workers from essential sectors received COVID-19 jabs.

“This is one of our ways of honoring the laborers and workers of the government and those in the private sector. These are essential workers in keeping our economy alive which is

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why the national government pays tribute to these workers by giving them protection,” said Dr. Cesar Cassion, regional director of the Department of Health (DOH) Caraga.

Those included in the A4 priority group sectors or groups that have high levels of interaction with or exposure to the public and cannot dutifully practice the minimum public health standards (MPHS) at work such those in the accommodation and food service industries, etc., and those that ensure security, consumer and worker safety, Caraga INFOCUS

vaccination ices workers

“May apprehension pa rin po naman ako since these vaccines are not proven to be 100% effective. Pero syempre mas mabuti pa yung navaccinate ka kaysa sa wala. Mas mahirap kasi dahil hindi mo alam kung sino yung nahawaan na ng COVID-19.

At least kung meron kang vaccine, meron kang panlaban,” he said.

Rhoda Devaras, an employee of the medical supplies distributor Djar Trades, shares the same sentiment and even advocates for the COVID-19 vaccines.

“Lahat ng tao sa mundo naghihirap dahil sa pandemiya. Ang pagbabakuna ay isa sa mga hakbang upang hindi na lumala ang ating sitwasyon ngayon kaya mas mainam na magpabakuna tayong lahat.”

Edgar Astrera

and working in priority government projects.

While the exact schedule for the official vaccination rollout for the A4 priority group is yet to be determined, the DOH reports that they are still completing the vaccination of individuals belonging to the A1 priority group (healthcare workers).

Per the latest report from DOH Caraga, as of April 29, 2021, a total of 43,155 individuals in Caraga region have been vaccinated for COVID-19.

(DMNR/PIA-Caraga)

Protection from the fatal virus remains a priority among Filipinos especially those who continue to serve the public which is why Edgar Astrera, a worker from the private sector, immediately grabbed the opportunity despite his hesitation.

Rhoda Devaras

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News Briefs The International AIDS Candlelight Memorial (IACM) is one of the world’s oldest campaigns for HIV awareness, and takes place every third Sunday in May. People living with HIV started the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial in 1983 and since then there have been thousands of yearly events organized across the world by community-based organizations. xx

“The establishment of the Executive Order No. 70 or the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict has pushed forward first and foremost the notion that insurgency is not just a military problem.

Rather it involves everyone vulnerable to the threats of communist armed conflict,” said Dir. Manuel Orduña during the Seminar of National Security Concern and Disaffiliation Activity . He furthered that the EO 70 is more of a propaganda war or battle of information on insurgency and the tactics deployed by the CPP-NPA-NDF. With this, various government agencies and sectors join hands to promote awareness on insurgency, targetting especially the indigenous peoples (IPs) and the youth, who comprise the majority of the victims of CTGs. This cooperation has paved the way for the whole-of-nation approach to be institutionalized to tackle insurgency in the country.

As one of the resource speakers during webinar on the salient features of RA 11188, its IRR and CSAC Handling Protocols, Atty. Julie Ann Regalado, shared that Republic Act 11188 recognizes the rights of children in situations of armed conflict; prevent the recruitment, re-recruitment and use of, displacement of children involved in armed conflict; defines prohibited acts and penalties; processes of investigation and prosecution giving utmost consideration of the best interest of the child; and provides for the protection of victims and witnesses.

P17 million virgin coconut oil (VCO) processing plant that is set to rise in Jabonga town in Agusan del Norte is expected to boost the province’s coconut industry. According to Rebecca Felix, chairperson of the Libas Farmers Multi-Purpose Cooperative (LFMPC), the processing plant is a big help for us. It will provide us market for our coconuts and the opportunity to venture into other livelihood activities, she said.

REGIONAL NEWS

PIA-13 TO LAUNCH FIRST KAPIHAN IN PARTNERSHIP WITH SM CITY BUTUAN

By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales

As demand for transparency and wider access to information increases especially in the advent of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, more and more platforms were created by the government to champion these concerns, with its communication arms spearheading campaigns. And amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga will be launching its first Kapihan in partnership with SM City Butuan.

At its core, the Kapihan serves as a platform in bridging the information gaps, allows productive

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discussions and healthy exchange of views from a wide array of relevant topics and socio-economic issues, solicit feedbacks, and brings the latest updates, news, and significant information that are helpful in the decisionmaking process.

Speakers from the Department of Health (DOH) and the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) will be gracing the “Kapihan sa SM City Butuan” on Friday, April 30, at the SM Supermalls in this city to discuss the latest COVID-19 health situation report in the region; the implementation of the vaccination program; and other measures

implemented by concerned sectors under the Regional Task Force on COVID-19 (RTF COVID-19) to address pressing issues arising from the health crisis.

The Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) expressed support on the endeavor as it leaves no one behind when it comes to informing and engaging the public.

“This allows all stakeholders to come to the table and have an equal opportunity to partake on important issues especially in this time of a great health crisis which has brought unprecedented challenges,” remarked the office.

Catch the Kapihan sa SM City Butuan via Facebook Livestream which will air on Friday at 3pm in PIA Caraga’s official Facebook page, https://www.facebook. com/PIACaraga.

(DMNR/PIA-Caraga) Caraga INFOCUS

OWWA CARAGA JOINS AGENCY’S 39TH ANNIV CELEBRATION

The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration Regional Welfare Office Caraga (OWWA RWO Caraga), together with the other RWOs virtually participated in the simultaneous flag-raising and anniversary celebration via Zoom hosted by OWWA Central Office as OWWA marks its 39th founding anniversary.

In memory of the demise of some colleagues in the agency, a eucharistic mass was offered presided by Fr. Jorge Seldon Coronado of Sto. Rosario Parish Church, Butuan City, for the eternal repose of the soul of the late OWWA employees, and the families of fellow employees who passed away during this time of the pandemic. After the mass, the event featured the virtual message of Administrator Hans Leo J. Cacdac to officially commemorate the founding anniversary,

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wherein he expressed his appreciation to the OFWs for all their hard work and sacrifices over the years.

“Patuloy po ang pagsaludo namin sa inyong sakripisyo para sa sambayanang Pilipino,” he said. The event also presented the video greetings from the different Regional Offices as one of the highlights of the virtual celebration.

Part of the celebration was the awarding of cheques with the presence of OWWO III/OIC-PSD, Rodel P. Deligero on behalf of the OIC-Regional Director, Ma. Ireen C. Cambaling of OWWA Caraga to the two beneficiaries of the livelihood assistance program worth PhP10,000 under the Balik Pinas! Balik Hanapbuhay Program and another PhP10,000 to one beneficiary of the OFW Dependent Scholarship Program (ODSP), who are all from Butuan City.

Another highlight of the event was the inspirational message by former DOLE Sec. Marianito D. Roque, who recalled his fond memories about the humble beginnings of OWWA, and articulated his commendation to the current Administrator as to how OWWA continues to implement its mission and vision to the OFWs through the ongoing programs and services, not just for the OFWs but also for their dependents back home.

Alongside this celebration, a webinar series dubbed “Kumusta ka, OWWA?” that emphasized the mental health wellness for OWWA employees hosted by Father Nilo Tanalega, SJ of UGAT Foundation together with their resident psychologists, Kim Lim and Kat Ching. The webinar aimed to tackle the mental well-being of the participants and a channel of enlightenment that will somehow ease the silent battles that everyone is going through in this pandemic. (OWWA-13/PIACaraga)

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AGRI RADIO DRAMA OFFERS INFOTAINMENT ON ‘RADYO ESKWELA’

By Rhea C. Abao

DA, CSU PARTNER FOR MILK FEEDING PROGRAM

In support of the Milk Feeding Program, Research and Development, and Extension in the region, the Department of Agriculture (DA) - Caraga handed over o Tuesday, May 4, a check amounting to P5 million to Caraga State University (CSU) for the establishment of the Dairy Goat Multiplier Breeder Farm.

Livestock program regional coordinator Jekem Sanchez personally turned over the check to Dr. Anthony M. Penaso, CSU president, with the presence of CSU vice president for Research, Innovation, and Extension Dr. Rowena P. Varela, and director for Resource Generation and Management Services Dr. Tomas Austral Jr. The intervention is under the Nucleus and Multiplier Breeder Farms for Poultry, Swine, and Small Ruminants Project of the Bayanihan Act II of the National Livestock Program. (DA-RFO XIII, RAFIS/ PIA-Caraga)

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When you think about radio dramas and you are Visayan, you would probably recall Handumanan sa Usa ka Awit or Kini ang Akong Suliran of the 70s and 80s. Radio drama may seem like a thing of the past, but they are still a great way to tell stories these days.

In the field of agriculture, producing appropriate Information, Education, Communication (IEC) materials in the form of radio drama is a creative way to inform the farmers and other agriculture stakeholders of new farming technologies.

This is why the Department of AgricultureCaraga together with the Agricultural Training Institute-Caraga and the Philippine Rice Research Institute-Agusan came up with the production of agri-related radio drama for the forthcoming School-on-the Air on Smart Rice Agriculture (SOA-SRA).

Dubbed as Radyo Eskwela: Mga Bag-ong Teknolohiya sa Paghumayan, the special radio program will start airing on May-August 2021 in selected radio stations regionwide and live-streamed in the DA and ATI FB Pages.

Regional Agriculture and Fishery Information Section Chief Emmylou T. Presilda said that incorporating radio drama in SOA is a tool to inform and at the same time provide entertainment to the listeners.

“The infotainment approach is our way to attract and hold the attention of the learners

Caraga INFOCUS

CARAGA’S ECONOMIC PERFORMANCE DROPS BY 7.2%, GFCE POSTS GROWTH IN 2020 The economy of Caraga contracted by 7.2 percent in 2020 compared with the 5.4 percent growth in 2019. The top three contributors to decline in 2020 were construction, which dropped by 32.9 percent; transportation and storage at -26.8 percent; and mining and quarrying at -11.5 percent, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) in Caraga.

PSA reported that agriculture, forestry, and fishing (AFF) grew by 3.9 percent in 2020 from a contraction of 3.6 percent in 2019. AFF contributes 14.3 percent to the regional economy.

by engaging their emotions through the stories. Radio dramas were produced to help demonstrate how the modern climate-smart rice agriculture technologies can help the farmer-students to improve their production,” said Presilda.

Presilda added that other communication tools like mobile or smartphones will be integrated to serve as a platform for dialogue, to further the discussions on topics that interest listeners, and create an engaging and interactive program.

SOA-SRA is a nationwide initiative of the Department of Agriculture as a complementary tool to the existing approaches in reaching and interacting with farmers. The program covers a range of topics and integrates scientific information appropriately packaged for the rice farmers in each region. (DA-Caraga RAFIS/PIA/PIA Caraga)

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Of the -9.6 percent economic contraction in the country, Caraga’s contribution to the decline was estimated at -0.1 percentage points while accounting for 1.6 percent of the total Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

On the other hand, Caraga’s GFCE recorded 9.5 percent growth in 2020. Other expenditure items showed contractions, in which the Imports of goods and services from the Rest of the World posted the largest decline of 33.4 percent. Likewise, Gross capital formation dropped by 27.9 percent, contributing 8.9 percentage points to the decline of the expenditure in the region. Meanwhile, region’s household spending, which accounted to 74.6 percent of the region’s economy, declined by 7.8 percent in 2020.

Meanwhile, the per capita Household final consumption expenditure (HFCE) of Caraga declined by 8.8 percent, higher than the national per capita HFCE of -9.2 percent.

The highlights of Caraga’s economy were presented during the simultaneous Regional News Conference in the country last 29 April 2021 via Zoom platform. (PSA/PIA-Caraga)

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DA-CARAGA CULMINATES FILIPINO FOOD MONTH, SHOWCASES PINOY CUISINE The Department of Agriculture (DA) – Caraga conducted the Filipino Food Month culmination program highlighting the indigenous and local food source through a cooking competition.

The participants of the cooking competition hail from the Rural Improvement Clubs (RIC) of Barangays Bobon, Tiniwisan, and Taligaman in Butuan City. The competition was divided into three rounds wherein 30 minutes was allotted for the ‘alimango’ or crabs as the main dish, 30 minutes for the mudfish, and 40 minutes for the native chicken.

Supervising Agriculturist of Agribusiness and

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Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD) Isabelita Ocampo stressed the importance of celebrating the Filipino culinary tradition notwithstanding the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We are glad to finally celebrate the culmination of Filipino Food Month even with our limited participants.

It is important to recognize these as part of our cultural heritage as it fosters a sense of belongingness and national pride. This is also the reason why we use indigenous dishes because we support our local products, we support our farmers,”

Ocampo said.

For the Mud Crab category, Rona Sanchez (RIC of Brgy. Bobon) was declared as the winner; Milvergrace Ducay (RIC of Brgy. Taligaman) for the Ginataang Mud Fish category; and Deodilita Jumadas (RIC of Brgy.

Bobon) also won in the Saute Spicy Native Chicken category.

Per Presidential Proclamation 469, the month of April exemplifies the Filipino Culinary Tradition through the celebration of the Filipino Food Month or Buwan ng Kalutong Pilipino. (DARFO XIII, RAFIS/PIACaraga) Caraga INFOCUS

PCAF BARES 2022 PLAN AND BUDGET, WELCOMES PROPOSAL FOR IMPROVEMENT The Philippine Council for Agriculture and Fisheries (PCAF) presented the 2022 plan and budget proposal, a 69 percent increase over the 2021 enacted budget, to further strengthen the involvement of its private-sector partners in the realization of the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) Program, Activities and Programs (PAPs).

The proposal was presented by the agency to its partners, the Agricultural and Fishery Councils (AFCs) at the national and regional levels, during the online Civil Society Organization (CSO) consultation on Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 Plan and Budget Proposal on April 21, 2022.

activities and strategies for FY 2022, as well as to get suggestions on how to improve the proposed plan and budget of the agency.

Innovative Consultation for Agriculture and Fisheries Policy Reforms and Engagement or PCAF iCARE.

Aside from the chairpersons of Regional AFCs and the National Banner Program Committees (NBPCs), also present were regional executive officers, regional coordinators and key PCAF officials and staff.

Included in the proposal were the agency’s planned activities and commitments towards the operationalization of OneDA framework through policy research and evaluative policy study.

“It is about time to help us defend and convince legislators that we need relevant funding to engage fully the AFCs, volunteers and industry players to support and implement the DA’s PAPs,” said PCAF Acting Executive Director Liza G. Battad to the agency’s private sectorpartners.

Under the policy research, PCAF will shepherd the AFCs’ engagement on the State University and Colleges (SUC)-CSO coimplementation on the research and development policy action and strategies.

The activity aims to generate greater appreciation among PCAF’s private sector-partners on Battad also presented the budget requirements the agency’s goals and of the agency’s planned strategies, in line with PCAF

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Battad mentioned the creation of SUC-hosted PCAF service hubs to ‘creatively’ tap the expertise of the academe.

“It is fundamental that PCAF

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benefits from the mentoring culture of the academe.

and tracking of activities in coordination with NBPCs and AFCs specifically on This will help us empower the operational adoption of the AFCs because this is policies endorsed. inherent to the universities · To explore the possibility of and we have the right providing communication personnel and officials to expenses and other work with. At the same incentives for NBPCs and time, (we want to) bring AFCs for the conduct about the engagement of virtual meetings and of the Agricultural and consultations.

Fishery Youth Council in · To work on the bushels policy development and Through an improved per acre with PhilMaize improving the monitoring budget, Battad also in coordination with the and evaluation (M&E), presented the agency’s Philippine Carabao Center, feedbacking system and commitment to enhance National Dairy Authority, into the R4D policy,” said its agriculture and fishery National Livestock Program Exec. Dir. Battad. stakeholders’ participation on the utilization of corn in policy development. silage.

The policy research · To set special consultation involves online opinion poll, She also added that in 2022, on the corn industry on enforcement of biosafety PCAF will also focus in cothe genetic improvement, standards for livestock and implementing agri-fisheries post-harvest and insurance other commodities of high issues and concerns with programs. export potential and border good focus on Bantay ASF · To consolidate the policy disease prevalence, M&E sa Barangay, Bantay Presyo, researches and evaluative of DA’s Plant, Plant, Plant Bantay FAW and PAFES studies’ suggestions from Program, effectiveness of concerns. the NPBCs and AFCs. regulation and monitoring · To enhance of DA and its food safety As discussed over the Information regulatory agencies in the the consultation, the Communications importation and exportation private sector-partners Technology capacity of agri and fishery products, recommended the specifically for the and expanded crop following to PCAF to development of PCA’s insurance compendium consider in the 2022 plan industry desk dashboard package to farmers and budget: · To enhance participation affected by recurrent for AFCs in the Agriculture disasters and calamities to · To work on the Dialogues and Information sustain agriculture credit implementation of the Network Groups (ADING) by and financing towards food convergence of the AFCs ensuring their involvement security. and the Fisheries and the post qualification or Aquaculture Resources awarding of bids For the evaluative policy Management Councils. · To work on the needed study, PCAF also engage · To provide status of requirements for the AFCs with third party and utilization of the PL480implementation of CSO co-implementation funded projects Mandanas Ruling. (JC / DAto review the Food Safety · To strengthen monitoring PCAF/PIA-Caraga)

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Act of 2013, review the National Livestock Genetic Improvement and its planned effects in sustainability of community livestock enterprises, and ex ante analysis of the Republic Act 7160 known as the Local Government Code of 1991 (Mandanas Ruling) effects on food security.

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WILLIAM D. DAR

AGRI CHIEF PROMPTS TO TRANSFORM PH AGRI-FISHERIES SECTOR

The Department of Agriculture (DA) is advancing the transformation of the agriculture and fisheries sector into a competitive, science-based and technology-backed industry, managed by young, creative, innovative, and vibrant Filipino agricultural and biosystems engineers (ABEs).

Agriculture Secretary William D. Dar articulated the Duterte administration’s over-all vision of a food secure and resilient Philippines with empowered and prosperous farmers and fisherfolks, in his keynote message at the opening of the 70th Philippine Society of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineers (PSABE) Annual National Convention held

Caraga INFOCUS

online on April 27.

“The theme for this year’s celebration, ‘Harnessing Industry 4.0 for Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering,’ is indeed relevant to the current situation faced by the agriculture and fisheries sector,” said Sec. Dar. “Engaging the youth is imperative to attain a growth of 2.5% goal for 2021 and to sustain our progress towards a fully food-secure nation.”

Attendance of ABEs in the annual event is meaningful since they are key players in the implementation of RA No. 10915 or the Philippine Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering Act of 2016, RA No. 10601 or the Agricultural and Fisheries Mechanization Law, and other related laws, he added.

Now more than ever, farmers need to maximize tried and tested technologies and generate new ones responsive to the present times. The Agri Chief elaborated the four key pillars in transforming the Philippine agriculture and fisheries sector under One DA Reform Agendafarm consolidation, modernization, industrialization, and professionalization of agriculture, and urged agricultural and biosystems engineers (ABEs) to look into how they can come in and support.

In farm consolidation, “DA considers the establishment, operation, maintenance and management of AgriFisheries Machinery and Equipment Service Centers

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(AFMESCs) and the Laser Land Levelling spearheaded

by DA-BAFE (Bureau of Agricultural and Fisheries Engineering) to support the Bayanihan Agri-Clusters.”

Modernization heavily requires the involvement and participation of ABEs through the provision of agricultural machinery hugely funded by DA banner programs for rice, corn, high value commercial crops, livestock and organic agriculture which form part of the implementation of National Agricultural and Fisheries Mechanization Program or NAFMP.

professionals who are frontline professionals in the agriculture sector.

A career system for ABEs in DA is established with the creation and institutionalization of BAFE, Regional Agricultural Engineering Divisions (RAEDs) and ABE Groups of concerned DA bureaus and attached agencies, and with corresponding ABE plantilla positions.

LGUs at the provincial, city and municipal levels are currently replicating the system.

To complement professionalization in agriculture, DA and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) entered a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) in 2020 for the implementation of Government Internship Program (GIP) for ABE Youth.

The internship program has already deployed the first batch of 110 young ABEs in DA Regional Field Offices and other DA agencies like Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA), and Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA).

DA is pursuing the industrialization of agriculture by strengthening of local assembling and manufacturing of agricultural machinery with the on-going formulation of agricultural machinery manufacturing road map and feasibility study of Agricultural Machinery Exhibition in Clark. Agroprocessing like the expansion or upscaling of the Rice Processing Centers as well as processing centers for corn and high value DA is likewise pursuing the crops need the services of implementation of a MOA ABEs. with Technical Education and Skills Development Sec. Dar emphasized the Authority (TESDA), PSABE, need to establish the career and Agricultural Machinery system of ABEs, agriculturists, Manufacturers and veterinarians and fishery Distributors Association

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Foundation, Inc. (AMMDA) on the rolling out of the training regulations for the agri-fisheries mechanization sector with the end-view of producing adequate number of agri-fisheries machinery operators and technicians. ABEs would serve as trainers and competency assessors in the said program.

Sec. Dar enjoined PSABE and all its member ABEs to the furtherance of the four key pillars in harnessing Industry 4.0 for agricultural and biosystems engineering.

The annual convention coincides with 17th International Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering Conference and Exhibition and 32nd Philippine Agricultural Engineering Week.

National officers and members of the PSABE, PSABE Board of Trustees, regional chapter officers, past presidents council, Young Engineers Section, Pre-Professional Groups or ABE students, Professional Regulatory Board of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering (PRC-BOAE), officials of the Bureau of Agricultural and Fisheries Engineering, agricultural and biosystems engineers from ASEAN member attended the two-day event that concludes on April 28. (DA-BAFE Media Group/PIA-Caraga)

Caraga INFOCUS

17 IP SOLDIERS COMPLETE DEPED ALS A&E PROGRAM IN BUTUAN CITY

By Maj. Francisco P. Garello

representative of School District Supervisor of West Butuan; Remedios C. Hinampas, the district in-charge and ALS manager; and Brgy.

Kagawad of Bancasi Teresita A. Durante were also present to witness the moment of success of the IP soldiers.

Seventeen indigenous peoples (IPs) who enlisted as soldiers under the 402nd Infantry (Stingers) Brigade completed the two-year Alternative Learning System Accreditation and Equivalency (ALS A&E) program facilitated by the Department of Education (DepEd) Division of Butuan City on April 30, 2021 at the 402nd Brigade Headquarters, Camp Romualdo P Rubi, Brgy. Bancasi, this city.

Reintegration Program (IPRP).

The Army ALS learners are composed of IPs and former rebels (FRs) who were enlisted in the regular force through special enlistment as part of the government’s support to Indigenous Peoples and

The ceremony signifies that the soldiers are now on their way to become eligible and qualified members of the regular force of the Philippine Army.

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Colonel Cerilo C. Balaoro Jr., 402nd Brigade deputy brigade commander representing on behalf of brigade commander BGen. Maurito L. Licudine, attended the simple Completion Ceremony with a theme, “Edukasyon Pahalagahan, Ito’y Daan Tungo sa Magandang Kinabukasan…Alternative Learning System ang Kailangan.”

Ana Marie L. Ceniza,

It can be recalled that the Philippine Army allocated a special enlistment quota for IPs and FRs and waived all their educational and age requirements to serve for at least six years term.

As part of sustaining the professionalism of all Army troops, the higher headquarters directed the said soldiers to complete at least secondary education soonest, hence, they enrolled in the DepEd’s ALS A&E program.

Captain Algiem U. Basig, the personnel officer of the 402nd Brigade who monitored the status of the ALS education of the IP and FR soldiers said, “We always monitor the progress May 1-7, 2021 |

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soldiers,” he said.

Meanwhile, BGen. Licudine conveyed his sincere gratitude to the leadership of DepEd - Butuan City led by schools division superintendent Marilou D. Dedumo for the continuous commitment and partnership that enhances the capability of its personnel.

and development of our soldiers’ as ALS students and continuously guide them to ensure that they could continue their service in the Army.

They must cope up with the qualifications or requirements as members of the AFP once they will be subjected to examinations and/ or when they become eligible for promotion.”

The ALS A&E assessment and certification is a process that comprises an exam and other appropriate assessments to measure the competencies acquired

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by ALS learners based on the ALS K to 12 Basic Education Curriculum (BEC).

He said the Department of Education is always a committed partner of the Philippine Army towards peace and development.

Hand in hand, the DepED became part of continuously professionalizing our troops. Thank you, DepEd.

“As we move towards sustaining our gains Col. Balaoro against those who utilize congratulated the soldiers education as a way to for completing the DepEd deceive learners and A&E program. “We advocate violence for are pleased that these their own agenda, we soldiers painstakingly implore everyone to be hurdled the process of wary of the Sectoral Front undergoing the program Organizations of the that will be of their best Communist Terrorist Group interest in continuing their (CTG) and drive them military service. We also away from the campuses laud the efforts of the ALS and communities, and support our efforts to stop teachers who patiently youth recruitment,” said taught our soldiers. More BGen. Licudine. (CMO than anything else, it’s Officer, 402nd Infantry their sacrifices that led Brigade, PA/PIA-Caraga) to the success of our Caraga INFOCUS

BRIDGING KNOWLEDGE, CLOSING THE GAP: IPS IN AGRICULTURE

By Kent Warren H. Fugoso

Leaning towards development for the ancestral domains of the Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICCs) / Indigenous Peoples (IPs), the Department of Agriculture (DA) – Caraga through the Kabuhayan at Kaunlaran ng Kababayang Katutubo (4K), mobilizes its efforts in creating a livelihood and agricultural productivity program that will touch into four components such as Social Preparation, Production and Livelihood, Marketing Assistance and Enterprise Development, and Project Management.

The project will also provide a capacity building that will link the IP community to credit facilities and crop insurance. All of these will be catered through the targeted Community Needs-Assessments (CNA).

‘No One Left Behind’ The 4Ks, which commenced last 2020, is intended for the IPs to throw light on norms that they are the “left behind” sectors in the society.

The year 2020 has an Caraga INFOCUS

allocated budget of P13.7 million pesos while 2021 has P14.9 million pesos.

“Our IPs have massive spaces and lands for agricultural products but it is not productive.

This is the reason why this initiative is lodge under the DA, of course in coordination with the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) to safeguard the customs, traditions, values, beliefs, and interest of the communities,” said Edelmira Luminarias, DA – Caraga4K Program Focal Person.

Certificate of Ancestral Domain Claims (CADC).

In addition, they should also be registered in the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA).

“The reason, why we need to look thoroughly at the recognized members of the IPS, is because there are some who are claiming to be a member of an IP community and recognized by the NCIP, so that they can avail of the benefits. They must be registered in the RSBSA so that they will be insured under the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation Before the implementation (PCIC),” Luminarias said. of the project, a joint special order with the DA ‘Benefits from the and NCIP was established component’ to work hand-in-hand.

The 4Ks anchor its ‘Checking the validity’ benefits from four different components The project will cater to allotting different scope IP farmers and fisherfolk of interventions. For the of recognized Indigenous Social Preparation, the Political Structure (IPS) scope of interventions by the NCIP, who has a includes validation of Certificate of Ancestral the Ancestral Domain Domain Title (CADT), Sustainable Development Certificate of Ancestral and Protection Plan Land Title (CALT), and (ADSDPP), Community May 1-7, 2021 |

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Needs Assessment, Registration of IP Farmers to RSBSA, Registration of farmers to the PCIC, and identifying the specific interventions for capability building and conduct of training.

After determining the social preparations, component two focuses on the provision of support services and livelihood assistance. Production of support services includes quality seeds, organic and inorganic fertilizers, pre-and-post harvest equipment, tools and machinery, breeder animals to name a few.

Component two also targets to improve access of technology through the conduct of technology demonstration projects as a show window of technology through approaches like ‘learning by doing’ and ‘to see is to believe’ for easy adoption of technology.

Component three will focus on the marketing assistance and enterprise development which is in coordination with DA-Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division as key players.

Technical assistance and literacy training take place to access finance,

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markets, services, and partnerships outside the ancestral domains. This component also aims to match the market and create linkages and a farm consolidation approach as well as value-adding of their products.

Sur. These are IPOs from Rosario, Bunawan, and Sibagat, Agusan del Sur.

“For the list of recipients, we already incorporated the farm clustering approach so that these selected recipients will feel better access to resources, technologies, and markets The last component will be basing on their specific the Project Management sectors,” Luminarias said. where implementation, coordination, and ‘Closing the gap, Opening provision of logistics are better opportunities’ ensured and appropriately conducted.

The never-ending story of our IP communities “Consultation in every revolves around being Ancestral Domain is deficit in terms of capital necessary so that we can and financial capacity, keep up with the effects technical knowledge of the implementation. We to produce quality have to hold onto our aim agricultural products, lack to provide initiative but in of marketing skills, and accord with their customs lack of confidence. All of and tradition,” Luminarias these dilemmas create said. gaps that hinder these communities to function ‘Target communities’ well in the agriculture sector.

For the year 2020, DA-4Ks identified 10 recipients But as the saying goes of the 4K Program ‘alone we can do so little, Intervention. Three IPOs together we can do so from Agusan del Norte, much,’ there’s always a three from Surigao del better chance to change Sur, three from Surigao the usual. With their del Norte, and one from expertise and historical Butuan City. legacies, bonded with government support and For 2021, as of the latest interventions, they will no data, DA-4Ks listed three longer be the ‘left behind.’ recipients from Agusan del (DA RAFIS-13/PIA Caraga) Caraga INFOCUS

CARAGANONS GIAWHAG SA DOH-13 NGA MAGPADAYONG AGRESIBO BATOK COVID-19

By Venus L. Garcia

Hugtanong giawhag sa Department of Health – Center for Health and Development (DOHCHD) Caraga ang tanang Caraganons nga magpadayun sa pagpraktis sa minimum health protocols ug pagsunod sa guidelines nga gipatuman sa regional task force (RTF) for COVID-19 aron malikay nga mataptan sa maong virus.

Sa gipahigayong launching sa pinaakaunang episode sa “Kapihan sa SM City Butuan” pinaagi sa Caraga INFOCUS

Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga, gipanawagan pag-usab ni Dr. Cesar Cassion, DOH Caraga regional director, ang matag usa nga dili gayud magkumpyansa ug mahimog likayan usa ang panagtapok ug paggawas sa panimalay kun walay importanteng lakaw.

Admitado sab si Dr. Cassion nga misaka ang kaso sa COVID-19 sa nilabayng duha ka semana. Pero hinayhinay matud pa nga mikunhod ang positive

cases tungod sa pag implementar sa ahensiya sa mga nagkalainlaing stratehiya sa pagresponde aning giatubang nga health crisis.

Nahisgutan sab atol sa kapihan ang update sa vaccination program sa rehiyon diin nag-unang target ang A1 group nga mao ang mga frontline health workers.

As of May 6 niining tuiga, aduna nay 52,993 individuals ang nabakunahan sa Caraga region. Anaa sa May 1-7, 2021 |

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ni Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Caraga regional director ug RTF for COVID-19 chairperson Liza Mazo.

53,362 ang target nga mabakunahan nga mga frontline health workers.

Sumala pa ni Dr. Cassion temporaryong giundangan usa ang pag-administer sa AstraZeneca vaccine sa rehiyon. “Pero kadtong mga naturukan na aning first dose sa AstraZeneca nga bakuna eligible gihapon sila para modawat sa ilang ikaduhang dose,” sulti ni Dr. Cassion.

meetings. In fact, ang atong nagkadaiyang local government units (LGU) padayon sa ilang pagmugma og mga ordinansa nga makatabang sa pagkontrol sa pagkaylap sa virus. Aduna na kitay mga action plans ug kanunay gipatuman ang prevention, detection, isolation, treatment, and recovery o PDITR,” sulti

Suportado usab sa RTF ang mga lakang nga gibuhat sa matag LGU sa rehiyon kay matud pa ni Mazo lain-lain ang sitwasyon matag munisipyo o probinsiya mao dili angay ikatingala sa publiko kung adunay kalainan sa ilang gipatuman nga mga executive orders o guidelines.

Base sa latest update sa DOH-Caraga, 72 ang natalang new recoveries, as of 6 May 2021, kung diin misaka na sa 9,156 ang katibuk-ang recoveries sa rehiyon. (VLG/PIACaraga)

Sa lain bahin, padayon ang Caraga RTF sa koordinasyon, paghatag og pagtagad sa mga isyu ug concerns, ug paghatag ug solusyon niini.

“Regular ang atong ginabuhat nga RTF

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Caraga INFOCUS

MGA PAMPUBLIKO AT PRIBADONG SEKTOR SA BUTUAN NAGSANIB PWERSA LABAN COVID-19 Puspusan ang naging kampanya ng gobyerno at ng mga pribadong sektor sa Butuan City laban sa patuloy na pagtaas ng kaso ng coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Tamang impormasyon sa publiko, mas malawak na kaalaman sa COVID-19, health protocols at kahalagahan ng bakuna ang naging tugon ng Philippine Information Agency (PIA) at ng SM City sa lungsod ng Butuan.

Sa isang kapihan ay binigyang linaw ang mga katanungan mula sa media nina Department of Health - Center for Healh Development (DOH-CHD) Caraga regional director Dr. Cesar Cassion kasama si Office of Civil Defense (OCD)-Caraga regional director at Regional Task Force COVID-19 chairperson Liza Mazo.

Ayon kay Frank Nicol Marba, public relations officer ng SM City Butuan, ang kanilang pakikipagugnayan sa PIA at sa iba pang ahensiya ng gobyerno ay isang paraan ng kanilang matibay na pagsuporta sa pamahalaan at sa pagbabahagi ng

Caraga INFOCUS

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

mahalagang impomasyon sa publiko lalo na ngayong may pandemic.

“Nais ng SM City Butuan na maging well-informed ang ating mga kababayan na kahit sila’y nasa mall ay nalalaman pa rin nila ang mga balita at ang mga hakbang ng gobyerno kasama ang pribadong sector sa pagtugon sa mga pangangailangan ng mga tao at kung papaano natin malalampasan itong pandemyang kinakaharap natin ngayon,” ani ni Marba.

Binigyang-diin ni Dr. Cassion na mas napapabilis ang pagbabakuna sa mga eligible priority groups dahil na rin sa direktiba ni President Rodrigo Roa Duterte.

“Mandato po ng ating

Presidente na sa loob ng anim na araw mula ng pagdating ng vaccines sa ating rehiyon ay dapat na itong maibigay sa mga eligible priority groups base na doon sa ating masterlist, sa tulong na rin ng ating mga local government units,” pahayag ni Cassion.

Nanawagan naman si Dir. Liza Mazo sa publiko na patuloy na sumunod sa health protocols at suportahan ang vaccination program ng gobyerno.

“Sumunod po tayo sa minimum health standards laban COVID-19. Ugaliin po ang pagsuot ng face mask, face shield, paghugas ng kamay at social distancing.

Patuloy pa rin pong tumataas ang kaso sa rehiyon kaya mas maging maingat sana tayo,” sabi ni Mazo. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

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ECOLOGICAL SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT SEMINAR GIPAHIGAYON SA BUTUAN CITY Gibisita sa buhatan sa City Environment and Natural Resources Office kon CENRO ang Barangay Masao ning syudad aron mahatagan og kaalam mahitungod na sa Ecological Solid Waste Management (ESWM).

mga gilabay nga basura sa mga balay, nonhazardous institutional ug industrial waste, basura sa dalan, construction debris, agricultural waste, ug uban pang nonhazardous ug non-toxic solid waste.

Dugang usab Ang ESWM mao ang pagpasabot sa pagplastar sa mga mga residente ang aktibidades kalabot sa mga Sangguniang paghatag og kaalam Panlalawigan (SP) sa segregation ug Resolution nga source niini, segregated gipatuman sa syudad ug transportation, storage, ang mga silot nga nag pag transfer, pag proseso hulat sa usa ka indibidwal ug angay nga buhaton kung nakalapas kini sa sa mga basura, ug lakip balaod nga gipatuman na sab ang disposal sa subay sa solid waste solid waste. Uban sab ang management. katuyoan nga matudloan sa waste management Sumala ni Richard aron dili kini mahimong Ayaton, division chief dilikado sa palibot. sa Law Enforcement Division nga kanunay Gipasabot sab kong ang ilang pagpadayag unsa ang solid waste. ani nga butang tungod Ang solid waste mao ang adunay mga indibidwal

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nga walay pakabana sa palibot.

Daku sab ang pasalamat ni kapitan Romeo Suello sa Barangay Masao sa gihimung pagbisita sa taga CENRO aron mapahibalo ngadto sa mga residente ang sakto nga buhaton sa mga basura sa ilang lugar.

Dugang sab niini nga tungod sa nagkataas nga ihap sa mga negosyo nga natukod sa lugar lakip na usab ang mga indibidwal nga mulaag sa barangay, hugtanong ipatuman ni kapitan Suello ang insaktong waste management sa lugar.

Padayon ang mahitabo nga information dissemination sa buhatan sa uban pang mga barangay sa syudad.

(Butuan City PIO/PIACaraga) Caraga INFOCUS

LGU-BUTUAN, BCPO DOBLE-BANTAY VS. ASF Hugot nga gibantayan sa City Veterinary Office katambayayong ang Butuan City Police Office ang pagsulod ug paggawas sa mga karneng baboy o produkto sa karneng baboy nga mosulod ug mugawas niining syudad pinaagi sa pagbutang og Veterinary Quarantine checkpoints.

Kahibaluang napalibutan ang syudad sa mga lugar nga dunay nagpositibo sa African Swine Fever kon ASF. Gi-awhag lamang ang mga indibidwal nga adunay mga ibiyahe o isulod nga mga hayop, karneng baboy, ug mga produkto sa karneng baboy nga Caraga INFOCUS

makigkooperar sa veterinary quarantine nga gipatuman.

mga personahe sa checkpoint aron masusi ang kamatuoran sa mga papeles ug makita og Panawagan sa mga tarong ang mga baboy mosulod nga mga meat o produkto nga isulod sa van ug sa mga sakyanan syudad. nga adunay karga nga hayop nga magpakita Kung makita man sa mga kinahanglang ugaling nga sayop ang dokumento. mga papel o positibo ang dala nga baboy sa Pahinumdum sa mga ASF, awhagon gayud sila taga Butuan nga nga mubalik sa point of adunay ibyahe nga region. hayop nga kinahanglan magpakita og Veterinary Adunay ibutang pa Health Certificate nga nga mga veterinary mamahimong kuhaon sa quarantine sa mga inyong barangay. checkpoint sa mga entry ug exit points sa syudad Sa mga mubyahe aron doble ang pagsusi gikan gawas sa sa mga makasulod syudad kinahanglan nga baboy o produkto magpakita og veterinary sa baboy sa Butuan. health certificate ug (Butuan City PIO/PIAshipping permit sa Caraga) May 1-7, 2021 |

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

COMPLETED COMPLETED IRRIGATION IRRIGATION FOR FOR AGSUR AGSUR FARMERS FARMERS WASHES WASHES AWAY AWAY CROPPING CROPPING ‘FAILURE’ ‘FAILURE’

By Zenny G. Awing

No more cropping failure in the barangays of Agusan del Sur following the back-to-back turnover of the Communal Irrigation Systems (CIS) in the municipalities of Rosario and San Luis.

Funded by the Department of Agriculture - Philippine Rural Development Project (DA-RRDP), the 2.71 kilometer main canal, lateral and structures of Laminga in San Luis, and 4.76 kilometer main canal with structures in Limbatangan, Rosario is perceived to maximize cropping potential and ease farming operations.

“This irrigation is very Caraga INFOCUS

critical in rice cropping.

Here in Rosario before, harvest has always been a failure due to the lack of a good water source.

Now, as this project has come to life, surely yield will increase so with the farmers’ income,” said Rex Fuentes, Rosario Sangguniang Bayan member.

The 2.71 km Laminga CIS intends to cover 136 ha of rice field with 703 household beneficiaries in barangays Alejandro, Baylo, Dona Flavia, and Poblacion. This is in addition to the 10 ha existing conventional rice area and will help increase the rice production from 2.2 MT/

ha to 4 MT. A 29.22% increment in palay production is expected with the CIS. Limbatangan’s 4.76 CIS targets 264 ha rice area in the barangays of Libuac, Poblacion, and Tagbayan, Rosario having 1,623 household beneficiaries. This will increase rice production from 3.0 MT/ha to 4.0 MT/ ha for conventional rice and 3.0 MT/ha to 3.6 MT/ ha for organic rice.

Officials and farmers in Rosario and San Luis expressed their gratitude towards the implementors of the irrigation, promising to unceasingly May 1-7, 2021 |

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interventions should take place,” Monteagudo encouraged.

support government interventions.

“Our hearts are filled with joy with the completion of this irrigation. This will make our lives easier.

This just proves that the government is listening to our sentiments,” declared Jeffrey Manlapas, Laminga Irrigators Association member.

“Even if our generation ends, but as long as farming is alive, this fountain of life will always be here because of you.

Rest assured that we will continuously support and help the government by maintaining this irrigation up to the next generations,” guaranteed Federico Guerrero, Jr,

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Limbatangan Farmers Irrigators Association President.

Moreover, DA Executive Director Abel James I. Monteagudo reminded the residents that the government has been heeding the call of its people. Despite the threats of the pandemic, officials adapt to the new normal ensuring that programs reached their intended beneficiaries.

The CIS amounting to P21-million for Laminga and P50-million for Limbatangan would not be possible without the 10 percent counterpart from the local government unit of the beneficiary barangays.

This is required by the DA-PRDP along with the 10 percent counterpart from the Philippine government and 80 percent from the world bank.

Furthermore, the Laminga canal was turned over to the Laminga Irrigator’s Association along with the Limbatangan canal to the Limbatangan Farmers Irrigators Association.

The office of the “The government’s eyes mayor, Sangguniang and ears are open for Bayan members, and the people, making sure officials from the local that we reach the places government units of that are badly in need.

Limbatangan and Instead of complaining, Lamina, and the DAlet’s put our trust and PRDP staff witnessed the hope to the government ribbon cutting and turnoffices by opening over ceremony. (DAup our suggestions PRPD13/PIA-Agusan del to where do further Sur) Caraga INFOCUS

GOV’T SUPPORT SUPPORT TO TO GOV’T FRS CONTINUES, CONTINUES, FRS AGSUR PTF-ELCAC PTF-ELCAC AGSUR GRANTS GRANTS FINANCIAL AID AID FINANCIAL By 2Lt. Cecille Tappa

The provincial government of Agusan del Sur continues its support to the 24 Former Rebels (FRs) who voluntarily surrendered to the forces of 26th Infantry (Ever Onward) Battalion by granting cash assistance amounting to PhP10,000.00 each through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development (PSWD) Office of Agusan del Sur held on April 27, 2021 at the PSWD Office in Barangay Patin-ay, Prosperidad, this province.

The said 24 FRs are target beneficiaries of the Executive Order No. 70 (EO70), a government policy on “Institutionalizing the Wholeof a-Nation Approach to End Local Communist Armed Conflict” in attaining inclusive and sustainable peace in our country which aims to address the root causes of insurgency to end local armed conflict in the countryside.

The FRs are just a few amongst our enlightened brothers and sisters who finally went back to the mainstream of the government and living a more peaceful life since their surrender. “Dako kaayo akong pasalamat tungod sa sunod sunod nga benepisyo nga among nadawat gikan

Caraga INFOCUS

sa gobyerno. Kining maong kantidad daku na kaayo ug gikatabang sa among pamilya aron kami maka sukad sa among pag plastar sa among bag-o nga kinabuhi (We are very thankful for the various benefits that we have received from the government. This cash assistance is of great help already to support our family, as we opted to start a new life in a peaceful community),” alias Rey said.

The PSWD which forms part of the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) headed Agusan del Sur Governor Santiago Cane, Jr., released the cash assistance to the former members of the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army – National Democratic Front (CPP-NPANDF) and Militia ng Bayan (MB) to restore their allegiance to the Philippine government. “We are committed to help and assist the needs of our brothers and sisters who went back to the fold of law in their new beginning. The government will help you in providing what you need to start a new life,” he said.

Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Reynald Romel Goce, 26IB Commanding

Officer, expressed his gratitude to the PTF-ELCAC for its active and unending support in implementing the EO70.

“The PTF-ELCAC of AgSur is exhibiting its good character by showing full commitment in implementing the EO70. As our peace partners, we are glad working with the Provincial Government in attaining lasting peace in our province,” he said.

“The government is more than willing to assist those who want to come back in the folds of law. Once they surrender, we will be providing them the government programs and initiatives that would help them in re-building a more peaceful life together with their loved ones,” Goce added.

Currently, there are 157 FRs from 26IB, 74) of them already received benefits from the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP), 74 await awarding and 9 are for enrollment. The ECLIP is a government program intended for the reintegration of all members of the CPP-NPANDF who will surrender and support the peace negotiation program of the government. (acting CMO officer, 26IB, PA/ PIA-Agusan del Sur)

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AGREEMENT INKED FOR AGRI-FISHERY SERVICES IN AGNOR

By Rhea C. Abao

fisherfolk linkages in the province, spearhead agricultural modernization and industrialization, and enhance rural livelihood through massive utilization of science-based technologies and establishments of agro-based enterprises.

DA Caraga Regional Executive Director Abel James I. Monteagudo said that the selection of Agusan del Norte was based on the quality of governance, interest, and the presence of a state university with strong agriculture research and development track.

Department of Agriculture (DA)-Caraga Regional Executive Director Abel James I. Monteagudo, Governor Dale B. Corvera, together with Caraga State University (CSU) President Anthony M. Penaso sealed its partnership for piloting Agusan del Norte in the implementation of the Province-led Agriculture & Fisheries Extension Systems (PAFES) in Caraga region.

The signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on April 24 kicked off the conduct of a Rapid Appraisal by the CSU to assess and evaluate the readiness of the local government unit in providing agriculture and fisheries extension services prior to the full implementation of the project.

The PAFES is a flagship initiative of the DA to strengthen the farmer and

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“PAFES is the DA’s initiative to prepare the local government units for the full implementation of the Mandanas Ruling, wherein the LGUs are expected to absorb the programs and assume the devolved functions and services of the national government in response to the expansion of their share of the Internal Revenue Allotment,” said Dir. Monteagudo.

Further, Governor Dale B. Corvera said that PAFES will complement the AGUSAN UP, a development campaign designed to realize the LGU’s vision to be an agri-forest province and economic processing zone of the region by 2027.

“We assure the DA for our commitment to continue to be a partner to strengthen and boost the economy in the province.

With this system we are hopeful that more opportunities will be available for the Agusanons,” said Governor Corvera. (DACaraga RAFIS/PIA Agusan del Norte)

Caraga INFOCUS

AGNOR BARES 12 CORE PROCESSING PROJECTS FOR LGUS

By Aimee B. Sienes

The provincial government of Agusan del Norte under Governor Dale B. Corvera, foresees that “By 2027, Agusan del Norte is the Agriculture Processing Center and Industrial Estate Zone on the Caraga Region driven by Godly, Efficient Services and Effective Governance towards a Progressive and Sustainable Environment.”

Armed with this vision, the mission is to “Take the lead in achieving sustainable agri-forestry base and emerging industry clusters, operationalizing Special Economic Zones (SEZ), developing social and basic infrastructures support facilities and utilities and environmental protection and conservation.”

Anchoring from what the province wanted to be and how to achieve its dream to have a remarkable feat in Caraga region, the local government of Agusan del Norte is currently running a development campaign dubbed as AGUSAN UP! an eight-point development agenda that is broken down into four flagship programs.

Plant and Process or AGUS 3Ps for concerns related to economic development;

Caraga INFOCUS

AmomangAgusanon for social development concerns; Lunhaw’ngAgusan for environment development concerns; and Hiniusang Lihok Agusan for development management concerns.

Through the AGUS 3Ps, which is more known for its Plant!

Plant! Plant! And Process!

Process! Process! projects, the province intends to realize its vision of rising as the Agricultural Processing Center in the Caraga region, and with its mission, deliver to its constituents a satisfying life.

As a strategy to realize the economic vision, the province had to set in motion the rise of as many processing activities as possible under AGUS 3Ps. The LGU Agusan del Norte entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to spearhead the implementation of the core processing projects of the city and municipalities of the province and solidified under Sanggunian Resolution No. 525 -2020, resolution authorizing the Provincial Governor, Hon. Dale B. Corvera to sign various MOU to be entered into by and among the provincial

government of Agusan del Norte, the Office of the 2nd Congressional District Representative, regional offices, provincial offices component local government units and private entities for the implementation of a core processing project in each LGU of the province.

With this MOU, 12 Core Processing Projects are placed in the province, one for each local government unit and the inclusion of the NasipitAgusan del Norte Industrial Estate (NANIE).

In a glance, spare a look for these 12 Core Processing Projects that make Agusan del Norte to rise in the region of Caraga.

Nasipit Agusan del Norte Industrial Estate (NANIE), Nasipit The 62-hectare NANIE has been a thrust for development for over 20 years now but only 11 hectares have so far been taken and at land development stage yet with no certainty on when processing activities could kick off.

Located in the barangays ofCamagongangTalisay, the

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idea is to make it the center of industries and factories in the province where plants, warehouses, container yardsand other industrial facilities will be established.

The signatories of the MOU are the provincial government of Agusan del Norte, Office of the 2ndCongressional District Representative, LGU Nasipit, National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) Caraga, DTI Agusan del Norte, DOST Agusan del Norte and Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA).

Orchard Stopover, Carmen LGU Carmen has an abundant supply of mango and is into the production of fruits. Currently, it is also operating a mango processing plant but is operating at only around 10% of its operating capacity of 2000 kilos of mango a day.

It desires to raise its operating performance and is open to a cooperative undertaking with the provincial government, with other government agencies, other mango and fruits stakeholders in the municipality and the province.

The keyplayers include the provincial government of Agusan del Norte, Office of the 2nd Congressional District Representative, LGU Carmen, Department of

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Agriculture (DA)Caraga Region XIII, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Agusan del Norte and Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Agusan del Norte.

Chocolate City, Nasipit The project involves the development of a complex that will serve as the provincial market and processing center of various chocolate products. The facility will also serve as the Provincial Chocolate Processing Center. To be even more interesting and appealing, the facility will also have a chocolatethemed children or family park to attract this segment of the market known to be chocolate lovers to frequent the place.

Chocolate City can create more jobs for post-harvest, initial processing, continuous production and marketing activities.

The signatories of the MOU are the provincial government of Agusan del Norte, Office of the 2nd Congressional District Representative, LGU Nasipit, DA Caraga, DTI Agusan del Norte and DOST Agusan del Norte.

Sardines Processing Project, Buenavista The LGU Buenavista is rich in aquatic resources; the presence of “tamban” is very

prominent and also serves as the mainingredient in making sardines. The Sardines Processing Project involves the putting up of a 3,000kilo a day tamban (sardine) processing plant. This project, once realized, will finally improve the economic status of the municipality and its constituents.

The signatories of the MOU are the provincial government of Agusan del Norte, Office of the 2ndCongressional District Representative, LGU Buenavista, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), DTI Agusan del Norte and DOST Agusan del Norte.

Feed Mill, Las Nieves LGU Las Nieves is rich in corn and cassava crops that propels to the establishment of a Feed Mill Project that involves the operationalization of the 500-kilo capacity set of equipment awarded to a corn farmer association (A.G. Montilla Corn Farmers Association) in Las Nieves.

The signatories of the MOU are the provincial government of Agusan del Norte, Office of the 2ndCongressional District Representative, LGU Las Nieves, DA Caraga, DTI Agusan del Norte, DOST Agusan del Norte and E.G. MontillaCorn Farmers Association.

Bibingka, Puto, Suman, UPB

Caraga INFOCUS

Stopover (Beyond Rice), RTR LGU RTR has an abundant supply of rice. It is initially conceptualized as a project idea to put the interest of stakeholders together to shepherd the rise of RTR delicacies. The project seems to spell out the establishment of a marketing center of rice products like bibingka, bitsu-bitsu, puto, suman, UPB and also level up the operation of existing processing plant with the coming in of more supply from the entire province and trigger the interest of more farmers to go into rice production.

The keyplayers include the provincial government of Agusan del Norte, Office of the 2nd Congressional District Representative, LGU RTR, DTI Agusan del Norte and DOST Agusan del Norte.

Abaca Handicraft Village, Cabadbaran City LGU Cabadbaran has been chosen to be the location of the project mainly because of the various products, the existence of a considerable size of abaca farms and the presence of organizations active in abaca handicrafts making.

The keyplayers include the provincial government of Agusan del Norte, Office of the 2nd Congressional District Representative, LGU Cabadbaran City,

Caraga INFOCUS

DA Caraga Region XIII, DTI Agusan del Norte and DOST Agusan del Norte.

Banana Processing Center, Santiago

project will already pull other coconut industry players into the project and serve as coconut processing center of the province. Other than the VCO, other products LGU Santiago has an such as geonet, activated abundant supply of banana carbon and desiccated and has an existing processor coconut will be produced at for banana chips. The the center. project involves the putting in place of a facility that would The keyplayers include the serve as provincial market provincial government of development campaign Agusan del Norte, Office center, processing and of the 2nd Congressional training center in processing District Representative, of products made out of LGU Jabonga, DA Caraga banana as raw material.

Region XIII, DTI Agusan del Among these processed Norte, Philippine Coconut products are banana chips, Authority (PCA) and Libas banana flour and banana Farmers Multi-Purpose ketchup.

Cooperative.

The keyplayers include the provincial government of Agusan del Norte, Office of the 2nd Congressional District Representative, LGU Santiago, DA Caraga Region XIII, DTI Agusan del Norte and DOST Agusan del Norte.

Food Basket, Kitcharao

LGU Kitcharao desires to raise its operating performances and is open to a cooperative undertaking with LGU Agusan del Norte, other agencies of the government, vegetable stakeholders in Integrated Coconut the municipality and the Processing Center, Jabonga province. The project is seen to spell out not just the LGU Jabonga is rich in establishment of a marketing coconut crops and known center of fresh vegetables for its coconut processing but also facilitate the rise of products. various processing activities of vegetable as raw The project involves material. expanding the virgin The key players include the coconut oil, processing provincial government of capacity of the Libas Farmers Agusan del Norte, Office Multi-Purpose Cooperative of the 2nd Congressional from the current 200 kilos a District Representative, week to 10,000 kilos a day.

LGU Kitcharao, DA Caraga Region XIII and DTI Agusan With this capacity, the del Norte.

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Mineral Processing Project, Tubay LGU Tubay has abundant supply of nickel. The project seems to spell out not just the establishment of a marketing center of minerals, but also level up the operations of the existing processing plant with the coming in of more supply from municipalities rich in nickel.

The key players include the provincial government of Agusan del Norte, Office of the 2nd Congressional District Representative and LGU Tubay.

Power Plant, Magallanes The municipality of Magallanes has abundant supply of waste from wood and situated at the center of the province and the two major producers of waste, the cities of Butuan and Cabadbaran that can be used as Waste-to-Energy Technology.

Magallanes is willing to serve as host of the power plant. PRESCORP has an existing partnership with Waste-to-Plant technology provider Evergent Canada and has expressed interest to offer a public private partnership (PPP) with the local government of Agusan del Norte.

The keyplayers include the provincial government of Agusan del Norte, Office of the 2nd Congressional District Representative, LGU

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Magallanes and Philippine Renewable Energy Solutions Corporation.

Gov. Corvera is hopeful that the key players will fully back up these 12 core processing projects of the province for full implementation through their respective help and support most especially from farmers, processors, workers of the projects and consumers of the products made from the province.

“The province entered into various Memorandum of Understanding that we will spearhead the establishment and implementation of the core processing projects of the local government units of Agusan del Norte that will start the influx of economic activities for the processing of the produce of farmers and other raw materials abundant in the locality,” Gov. Corvera said.

He expressed confidence that these will pave the way to open new doors and opportunities for job generation, additional income and economic development and improve the quality of life for the province and its people.

“Signing the MOU is a vote of confidence,” says Brenda B. Corvera, DTI Agusan del Norte Provincial Director.

They are committing their support through the possible assistance in terms of equipment through their shared service facility,

market development, investment generation and product development of existing and those products that still need to be developed.

Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Caragat through the Provincial Science and Technology Center of Agusan del Norte committed to extend support to the various products identified by assisting the key players in the identification of appropriate processing technologies; with the deployment of technologies it will help shorten processing time, ensures the quality of the products and improve productivity.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) Caraga Region fully extends its support and assistance for providing equipment for cacao production and other farming activities.

All other national line agencies involved committed their full support and assistance as mandates of their respective departments.

These projects once realized, would create value adding products, decrease the rate of unemployment and finally improve the economic status of the province that will leave lasting imprint in the Caraga region and the nation as a whole.

(LGU Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)

Caraga INFOCUS

14 MILISYANG BAYAN MEMBERS, 325 UGMOS SURRENDER TO ARMY

By Cpt. Roel T. Maglalang

The 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion (23IB), Philippine Army together with the Provincial Government of Agusan del Norte and the local government unit (LGU) of Las Nieves welcomed back to the folds of the law 14 members of the Milisya ng Bayan (MBs) and 325 members of Underground Mass Organizations (UGMOs) in a pledge of allegiance ceremony recently in Barangay Consorcia, Las Nieves.

The MBs and UGMOs once served as the main support mechanism of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) New People’s Army (NPA) Caraga INFOCUS

Terrorist (CNT) in Barangay of Las Nieves. Barangay Consorcia for years.

Captain Wennie A. Loquinte, together with The mass surrender the members of the ceremony was witnessed barangay council joined

by Las Nieves Mayor by hundreds of residents Avelina S. Rosales; of Consorcia.

Gerry Joey Laurito, the Provincial Administrator of It can be recalled that Agusan del Norte; Lt. Col a peace consultation Julius Cesar C. Paulo, INF and dialogue, locally (GSC) PA, Commanding known as pulong-pulong, Officer of 23IB; PLt. Fritzel was conducted last V. Cubillan, Chief of December 18, 2020 in Las Nieves Municipal Barangay Consorcia.

Police Station; Dir. Rey M. During the activity, the Cueva of the Technical residents expressed their Education and Skills issues and concerns, Development Authority especially on peace and (TESDA) of Agusan del order. They also lamented Norte; Ms. Karen S. on the continuing Rosales, head of the terroristic activities of the Youth for Peace in Las CNTs and voiced out their Nieves; and the member worries on the recruitment of Sangguniang Bayan of the terrorists among May 1-7, 2021 |

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your support to them.

We are grateful that you have finally realized that there is no tomorrow with the presence of CPP NPA Terrorists in your barangay. This program is not only for the Army, the police, and the government agencies.

We want nothing but peace and development.

We can only achieve this through your cooperation,” Rosales said. the vulnerable sectors in their community, especially the youths. The 23IB, during the pulongpulong, also provided the residents with inputs and information on the different schemes the CNT members utilize in recruitment.

When enlightened, the residents, especially the members of MBs and UGMOs decided to surrender to the government.

During the mass surrender activity, the MBs and UGMOs also handed over to the government nine (9) Caliber 22 (Airgun) rifles, four (4) homemade shotguns with two (2) live ammunition, and one (1) Caliber 38 pistol with five

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(5) live ammunition.

Alias “Nong” was among the MBs who surrendered and shared his experience and difficulties when he was still supporting the communist movement and even ask for forgiveness to the people of Barangay Consortia for extorting them.

Provincial Administrator Laurito, who represented Gov. Dale B. Corvera, expressed gladness for the decreasing number of CNT members and supporters in the province.

“Our government is always here to listen to your concern and is very eager to give the basic services to the people.

In her message, Mayor Rosales lauded the courageous act of the residents of Consorcia for condemning the CNT and making a turn to the right path.

We are glad that you have denounced your support to the CPP-NPA Terrorists for hindering the development interventions,” Laurito said.

“As you chose to start a new life, you have finally made up your minds to cut ties and withdrew

The head of the Youth for Peace in Las Nieves, Karen S. Rosales asked the parents to look over their Caraga INFOCUS

children to prevent them from being recruited by the CNTs, and transform them as effective youth in the community.

“The youths are among the vulnerable sectors of the community and the CNTs are taking undue advantage of their vulnerability. Let us go hand in hand to end the 52 years of deceptive recruitment that have been destroying the future of our youth,” Rosales said.

“We are grateful that you TESDA Dir. Cueva denounced the CNT and extended his compliments finally cut your support to the residents for their with them. You also bravery. surrendered tools and devices used against the “Now that you have Army and the police. Rest withdrawn your support to assured that this kind of the CNTs, development act will never be put to will surely boost in your waste,” Paulo said. community. In partnership with the LGU of Las The 23IB commander Nieves, we at TESDA thanked the barangay are providing support, officials of Consorcia for especially in honing your their support of the mass knowledge and skills for surrender activity. increased productivity,” he said.

“We thank you for the support you have given to Lt. Col. Paulo welcomed us. Your Army, especially the former rebels and the troopers of 23IB, will mass supporters and always be your partner in thanked them for the attaining lasting peace withdrawal of support and development here and enslavement from in Barangay Consorcia,” the CNT. Paulo said.

Caraga INFOCUS

He also reminded the residents to guard their community against the terroristic activities of the CNTs and shield the youth from the deceptive recruitment of the terrorists.

“Now that their number continues to decrease, they will never stop to regain their strength by recruiting new members.

The first line of defense in shielding our youth against these terrorists are the families and the community as a whole. I also assure you that your 23IB is always ready to provide support to secure your community,” Paulo said. (CMO Officer, 23IB 4I PA/PIA Agusan del Norte) May 1-7, 2021 |

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AGNOR SCHOOL FACILITATES CONDUCT OF ANTI-INSURGENCY CAMPAIGN

By Victoria A. Sumayod and Wyler C. Eupeña

In support to Executive Order (EO) No. 70 series of 2018, ”Institutionalizing the Whole-of-Nation Approach in Attaining Inclusive and Sustainable Peace, Creating a National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict and Directing the Adoption of a National Peace Framework”, the Northern Mindanao School of Fisheries (NMSF), Barangay Matabao, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte headed by Officerin-Charge Nancy C. De Guzman has facilitated the Anti-Insurgency Campaign conducted by the 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion (23IB), Philippine Army under the Acting Commander Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo attended by 245 students.

According to OIC De Guzman, this is a very laudable activity in order for students to be aware and be informed on how they are being led by those insurgents in another direction.

“So we are trying our best for our students, especially in TVET, not to go in that direction. TVET is one of

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the responses, because according to some experts that the very cause of rebellion is poverty and the answer to poverty is education,” de Guzman said.

Assistant Civil-Military Operations Officer 2nd Lieutenant Angel Grace M. Sebelina who led the advocacy team, has stressed how it will save the students from going to the wrong path. Louie Fuentes a.k.a. Kuya Louie, a former rebel has bared the recruitment activities in Caraga and inside campuses. Kuya Louie revealed that even though his parents are pastors, he was still persuaded by one of the CPP-NPA members to join because of the “welfare and good of everyone propaganda.”

Further, Kuya Louie shared how he found out that the doings of the CPP-NPA were the exact opposite of the promises they made during his recruitment.

These vicious and unlawful acts of destroying government properties used for the concreting of roads for example and going hungry for many

days due to the scarcity of food were just some of the factors that opened his mind and led him to leave and return to the fold of the government. Finally, he hoped that through his testimonies, the students will not go through the sufferings he experienced at the hands of the CPPNPA. During his talk, Captain Roel T. Maglalang, 23IB CivilMilitary Operations Officer, has warned the students on how to avoid becoming the prey of the terrorists and other criminal groups.

He supplemented it with video presentations that effectively show how their lies ruined the lives of the youths and their loved ones.

Capt. Maglalang concluded by posing these challenges to the students: Be a good and obedient youth, focus on your studies, obey your parents, and be law-abiding citizens.

The activity reflects NMSF’s commitment and support towards the attainment of true and lasting peace in the country. (TESDA-NMSF/ PIA Asan del Norte) Caraga INFOCUS

ARMY, POLICE JOIN FORCES TO STOP NPA’S EXTORTION

By Cpt. Roel T. Maglalang

gainful employment, and tourism areas in partnership with the Local Government Units (LGUs), Philippine National Police, and other law enforcement agencies and prevent the latter from conducting harassment, and intimidation against private companies in the area,” he said.

The 23rd Infantry “Masigasig” Battalion (23IB), Philippine Army together with Agusan del Norte Police Provincial Office (ADN-PPO) on Wednesday hosted the 1st Security Coordinating Conference held at the 23IB headquarters, Jamboree Site, Purok 6, Brgy. Alubihid, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.

The event transpired as part of the Critical Infrastructure Protection Security Operations (CIPSO) to intensify efforts in ending the extortion scheme of the Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs), to instill the concept of Shared Security Environment (SSE) with all the stakeholders involved, and to align the assessment and plans in achieving peace and resilient development programs for the areas of Agusan del Norte.

The said activity was

Caraga INFOCUS

attended by Col. Cerilo C. Balaoro, Jr., Deputy Brigade Commander, 402nd Infantry (Stingers) Brigade, Philippine Army; Ltc. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, Commanding Officer of 23IB, and his staff; PCol. Martin M. Gamba, Provincial Director, ADNPPO; Chiefs of Police from different municipalities and contractors of ongoing government flagship projects within the Area of Operation of 23IB. Ltc. Paulo cited the importance of Shared Security and the involvement of all sectors, particularly the local government units (LGUs) in addressing the extortion activities of the New People’s Army (NPA).

“This is part of our efforts in addressing the atrocities and to strengthen security measures of infrastructures, development projects, legitimate business that serve the interests in providing

“The NPA extortion work is not just the responsibility of the government security forces but it is everybody’s concern,” Ltc. Paulo added.

The NPAs also target the equipment of construction companies because they are soft and undefended and destroying them will delay the construction of farm-tomarket-road and prevent the government from bringing the basic services to rural areas.

“Have faith in your government, have faith in your security. This is a big leap forward to prosecute the assailants and let’s not give the NPA rebels the breather and the opportunity to penetrate the burning spree of heavy equipment and to stop their terrorism plans and to pressure the companies to give in to their extortion demands,” Col. Balaoro said.

(CMO Officer, 23IB 4ID PA/ PIA Agusan del Norte)

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ADVENTURES AWAIT IN RTR, AGUSAN DEL NORTE

By Shiene Deligero

There is nothing quite like traveling, like seeing a new place for the first time or returning to a favorite one. You see and learn many things during travels whether here or abroad.

It may be a journey, an adventure, a new beginning, or reminiscing the past. Whatever one’s reasons are, traveling is generally a pleasurable experience that everyone needs.

It is a habit for any traveler to learn anything and everything concerning the place that will be visited, knowing the place you want to go gives you excitement and wants to see the real deal. In the province of Agusan del Norte, Remedios T. Romualdez also known as RTR is one of the most fascinating.

The municipality of RTR is known as the rice granary of Agusan del Norte because of its

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wide green rice field and also one among the biggest and high-grade quality of Manganese Mineral Resources in the Country. It is also the major part of the municipality that is why rice is the staple food of the locals and of the province. It is pleasing and refreshing to the eye of the travelers and it symbolizes abundant life.

Unknown to many, it hosts fascinating tourist spots. Whether you’re looking for natural, cultural, or historical destinations, you’ll find them all here.

Once you’re in the laidback municipality, there is an unexplainable pleasure you will get that only nature can give you. The coldness of it, the fresh air, and the splash of water that makes you swim over the falls. It gives you rest, relaxation, and peace, since, the place is calm and peaceful and it

offers beautiful sites to look at and watch. It is also secluded and away from much of the busy life of the neighboring towns and cities.

It is not yet so known in the country but slowly making a name in tourist destinations in Caraga Region.

Let’s go and feel relaxed as we explore the beauty and the adventures that await in such a wonderful place.

Waterfalls Tagnote Falls is one of the known tourist spots in Agusan del Norte favored by the locals. It is located at Sitio Tagnote, Barangay San Antonio, RTR. A simple place with local snacks and foods available at the corner.

It is 1.5 kilometers away from San Antonio proper.

The 20-foot high waterfall cascades on a rock cliff down the 10 square meters wide basin which Caraga INFOCUS

is about 3-foot deep and can accommodate 15-20 persons at a time.

You can enjoy the forest scenery while swimming at the medium size pool.

The serene lush forest, tumbling waterfalls, cool and clear waters you will experience around the vicinity. Near the area is plenty of trees that serve as a shade for any visiting tourists and the flat rocks will serve as tables and chairs by the campers. Tagnote falls is a must-see site for anybody visiting RTR. How to go there?

From Butuan City take the bus, van, or jeepney and drop in RTR town proper, specifically at the crossing where you can find Rose Bakeshop.

Then from the town proper, you can hire a bicycle or habal-habal for a ride to barangay San Antonio for about 7 kilometers, then have a walk for 1.5 kilometers to Tagnote Falls.

There is also called the Sak-a falls, where you will enjoy cliff jumping and swimming. This is somewhere a weary Caraga INFOCUS

heart can find comfort and rest from the busy lifestyle of the present time. Sak-a Falls is also found in Barangay San Antonio,Remedios T. Romualdez. It is a two-hour trek from the barangay proper.

The beauty of it is so tempting especially at high noon because the flowing water seems to sparkle with the rays of the sun striking from above.

Mountain Climbing If you are one of those who like mountain climbing, then Mount Hilong-hilong is the place you will really want to go to since Mt. HilungHilong is known as the highest mountain peak in Caraga. It is 2,012 meters above sea level and has seven large waterfalls and seven caves. Thus, according to German Botanist, Circular 1920, the smallest flower is seen only in this mountain.

The easiest trek to the peak is through Malvar Trail situated in Barangay San Antonio of RTR within three days to the peak and one day going back to the barangay proper.

Caving And if you are an adventurous person, Humilog Cave 1 is the right place for you. It is located in Barangay Humilog, RTR and it is two kilometers away from the town proper. The cave is 4.5 meters wide and 300 meters long. It has a tight vertical entrance that makes one hold his breath and at the end of the cave is a rock that looks like an altar. Below the altar are smaller rocks that can be used as chairs.

These beautiful places in RTR are perfect for all types of travelers, from solo and couple to family and friends. You will be mesmerized by the magnificent wonders of nature and man-made cultural heritage sites that the place has to offer.

For more details, you may contact Ms. Bernaditha B. Daquipil, Sangguniang Bayan Member of the said province through the number 09101375575.

(LGU Agusan del Norte/ PIA Agusan del Norte) May 1-7, 2021 |

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‘AGUS BLEND’ MODAGAYDAY SA AGUSAN DEL NORTE Agus Blend?

By Karen Decamotan

kape ubos sa Process!

Process! Process!

Kini ang matang sa kape Project sa Agusan nga modagayday sa UP!, ang kampanya Agusan del Norte sa dili pangkalambuan sa madugay. administrasyon ni Gob. Dale B. Corvera kaabag Ang ideya nauyonan ang buhatan ni Kongw. sa mga stakeholders sa Angel Amante-Matba. industriya sa kape sa probinsya sa tigum nga Sa konsultasyon gihimo niadtong Abril nga giaapilan sa 28, aron hisgutan ang mga representante mga pamaagi aron sa organisasyon sa mapalig-on, mapalapad mga mag-uuma ug ug maseguro nga ubay- processors sa kape, sa ubay ang mabulahan Munisipyo sa Buenavista sa mga benepisyo niini, pinaagi sa Municipal ilabina ang mag-uuma Agriculture Office (MAO), sa kape, apil na ang sa Department of Trade mga Indigenous People and Industry (DTI) ug (IP). personahe sa Agusan Up Coordinating Center, Ipadagayday ang nauyonan nga mugnaon maong matang sa ang proyektong

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“Coffee Net” nga maoy mogama unya sa “Agus Blend”.

Ang “Coffee Net” magapil sa mosuma sa 5,000 ektaryas nga mga uma sa kape sa mga lungsod sa probinsya pag-abot sa 2027 gikan sa 1,730 ektaryas karon. Himoon kini ubos sa Plant! Plant!

Plant Project, ang kaluhang proyekto sa Process! Process! Process! ubos sa AGUSAN UP! Ang maong mga uma sa kape nakakonekta sa drying activities sa mga balay ug organisasyon sa mga barangay.

Ang drying activities nakakonekta usab sa mga roasting ug Caraga INFOCUS

grinding activities nga kadaghanan himoon sa mga organisasyon nga posibleng mo-package usab og brewed coffee gamit ang kaugalingon nilang brand.

Ang tanang nahisgutang proseso pagmugna og kape nakakonekta sa “Coffee Net” isip proyekto nga nagseguro sa kalidad sa produkto sa matag yugto niini ug mopalit sa piniling beans ug mamugnang ground coffee aron mugnaong ang “Agus Blend” brewed o instant coffee.

Baguio sa Kitcharao, sa Nasipit ug sa Puting Bato Highland sa Cabadbaran City ingon man sa gatusan pa nga coffee shops, hotels ug mga restaurants.

sa kita. Ug subay sa potensyal sa dynamics kung mapahiluna ang “Coffee Net”, daku ang purohan nga mokita sila og kapin sa poverty threshold income level nga mga Php120,000 matag tuig kumpara sa kita sa mga magsandig sa kape karon nga naa lang sa mga Php42,000.

Sa kinatibuk-an, mahimong kabahin ang halos tanang stakeholders sa kape sa matag ang-ang sa paggama sa kape Gitakda nga ipahiluna - gikan sa farming, ang detalyadong processing ug marketing. business plan sa “Coffee Net” sa mosunod Ug dinhi gilantaw nga mga bulan nga halos tanan nga unya mugnaon ang naghago niini aron corporate set-up sa molambo ang industriya proyekto dayon na sa Gawas nga pursigidong daku ang oportunidad pagpatuman na niini ibaligya ang brewed nga makaambit sa sa mosunod nga mga ug instant coffee bahandi nga mamugna bulan. sa high-end o mass ug moangat ang market, dasigon usab kahimtang sa pagpuyo Sa kasamtangan, sa proyekto ang mga – sunod sa tagline nga tuyokon sa technical organisasyon nga sakop gibarugan sa AGUSAN team sa AGUSAN UP! sa industriya sa kape sa UP! nga “Advancing Coordinating Center, pagmugna og coffee Opportunities, Nurturing sa DTI ug MAO sa shops ug makig-alayon Better Lives”. hingtungdang lungsod sa establisado nga mga ang kasamtangang uma establisamento nga iapil Gilantaw nga labing ug giplanohang tamnan sa i-silbi sa ilang mga ubos 4,000 ka regular sa mga mag-uuma customer ang “Agus nga trabaho ang alang sa posibleng Blend”. mamugna gikan sa technical assistance, industriya sa kape apil ang posibleng Niini, gilantaw nga gikan karon ngadto sa pagbansay nga himoon mahimong kabahin unya tuig 2027. Kapin kon sa dili pa ang gitakdang ang “Agus Blend” sa kulang 2,000 ka banay pagsugod sa pagpanum isilbi sa Simbalan Cloud usab ang gilantaw nga sa bulan sa Hunyo. (LGU World sa Buenavista, magsandig sa industriya Agusand el Norte/PIA sa View Decks sa Little isip nag-unang tinubdan Agusand el Norte) Caraga INFOCUS

May 1-7, 2021 |

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DETALYE SA PAGPAHILUNA SA PROYEKTONG “BEYOND RICE” SA RTR GIHISGUTAN SA TIGUM

By Shena Mae Pabia

Gibanabana nga mga 200 ka tawo ang makatrabaho ug kapin kon kulang 100 ka banay ang magsandig sa proyekto kung fully operational na kini.

Ang giplanohang inisyal nga mga produkto nga iproseso mao ang bodbod, bibingka, biko, puto, bitso-bitso ug rice wine.

Gihimo niadtong, Abril 27, ang konsultasyon kalabot sa proyektong “Beyond Rice” nga gipasiugdahan sa probinsya sa Agusan del Norte isip core processing project sa lungsod sa RTR. Ang “Beyond Rice” usa sa 15 Core Processing Projects nga inisyal nga na-identify isip kabahin sa kampanyang Process!

Process! Process! ubos sa AGUSAN UP!, ang kampanya sa pagpalambo sa administrasyon ni Gob. Dale Corvera kaabag ang buhatan ni Kongw. Angel Amante-Matba.

Magtambayayong pagpahiluna sa proyekto ang probinsya pinaagi sa AGUSAN UP!, ang Munisipyo sa RTR ubos

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sa liderato ni Mayor Richard Daquipil, mga nasudnong ahensya, apil na ang buhatan sa Department of Trade and Industry nga mikometer pagpadangat og mga ekwipo sa pagproseso sa mga produkto, ug mga residente sa lugar nga magsilbing processors sa mga produkto nga mugnaon.

Gihisgutan sa maong tigum ang mahimong mga targets sa proyekto, apil na ang gipunting nga halin nga Php50 milyones matag tuig pag-abot sa 2027 ug ang kantidad nga moadto sa mga banay nga magsandig unya sa proyekto ingon man ang mga estratehiya nga kinahanglang himoon aron mapaneguro nga magmalamposon kini.

Gawas nga mopahiluna og mga human sa pagproseso, ipahimutang usab sa proyekto ang “Kakanin Stopover” sa daplin sa highway sa sentrong bahin sa RTR alang sa mga travelers ngadto og balik sa mga syudad sa Butuan, Cabadbaran ug Surigao.

Magsilbi usab nga marketing arm ang proyekto sa mga processors sa lungsod nga mohatud sa ilang mga produktong kakanin sa mga outlets sa Butuan, Cabadbaran ug mga lungsod sa Agusan del Norte ingon man ang pagkuha ug pagpadala sa mga orders gikan sa ubang dapit sa nasud.

(LGU-Agusan del Norte/ PIA-Agusan del Norte) Caraga INFOCUS

BAG-ONG BARANGAY HALL SA LUNGSOD SA MAGALLANES, GI-INTRIGO NA Shena Mae C. Pabia

Gihimo kagahapon, Martes ang turn-over ceremony ug blessing sa bag-ong Barangay Hall sa Caloc-an, Magallanes, Agusan del Norte.

Gipangunahan ang maong pag-intrigar sa P500,000 nga Barangay Hall ngadto sa mga barangay officials sa Caloc-an sa pagpanguna ni Kapitan Julius Perang ni Mayor Cesar “Bubu” Cumba, Jr. “Dako ko ug pasalamat sa LGU sa Magallanes headed by Mayor (Cesar) “Bubu” Cumba labi na gyod sa atong Gobernador Dale Caraga INFOCUS

Bokingo Corvera ug sa atong Congressman (Angel Amante-Matba), nalipay mi og daku sa mga opisyal nga gitagaan mi ug project nga barangay Hall,” sumala ni Kapitan Perang.

og ensaktong project ilabina sa covered court nga ang budget Php4.7 Million nga nahuman na gyod siya, (og) street lights gikan sa Bitaog taman sa akong barangay nga naa solar light,” dugang ni Kapitan Perang.

Sumpay ni Mayor Cumba nga “karon pa lang sa panahon ni Kapitan Yoyoy Perang nga ing ani ang panagway sa Brgy.

Caloc-an. Pwede ninyo ipanghambog nga adto mo sa caloc-an kay nindot among covered court, labi na among barangay hall.”

Ang turn-over ceremony gitambongan nila Board Member Meriam Pagaran, municipal officials, barangay officials, DILG, mga personahe sa kapulisan, mga lumulupyo sa maong barangay ug ni Rev. Fr. John Cepeda nga maoy nagbasbas sa maong edipisyo. (LGU Agusan del Norte/PIA “Ang Caloc-an gitagaan Agusan del Norte) Gilantaw usab sa nga opisyal ug residente sa barangay Caloc-an nga ma-turn over na usab ning tuiga sa probinsya sa pagpanguna ni Gob. Corvera ug Congw Amante-Matba ang nahuman na nga Covered Court sa Calocan nga nagkantidad og Php4.7M.

May 1-7, 2021 |

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TESDA GRANTS BISLIG AGRI-FISHERY COMPLEX AS CERTIFIED FARM SCHOOL The City Organic AgriFishery Tourism Complex (COAFTC) of the city government of Bislig has been granted with the Certificate of TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) Program Registration (CTPR) recently.

The report said, after qualifying in the assessment, COAFTC is now a certified farm school of the city government in partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

Bisliganons and its neighboring municipalities can now avail the several programs offered such as:

With the new programs offered in the said institution, the present administration is looking forward to the improvement of the quality of life of Bisliganons, by providing excellent services and facilitating economic opportunities.

It can be recalled that COAFTC has

been the center for research, training, and learning site in the city showcasing different organic programs such as organic multiproduction, organic vegetable production, organic aquaculture, fruit crops, herbs and spices, and many more. (with a report from CIOBislig/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

1.) Agricultural Crops Production NC III; 2.) Animal Production (Poultry-Chicken) NC II; 3.) Animal Production (Swine) NC II; and 4.) Organic Agricultural Production NC II.

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Caraga INFOCUS

DA Caraga holds an ASF Information Caravan in Tandag City held at the City Gym of Tandag on April 21, 2021.

(Photo by PIA-SDS)

DA INTENSIFIES ASF INFO CARAVAN IN SURSUR, AGSUR

By Kent Warren Fuguso

To intensify the knowledge of the African Swine Fever (ASF), the Department of Agriculture (DA) – Caraga through the Regional Agriculture and Fisheries Information Section (RAFIS) conducted the ASF Information Caravan in the two provinces of the region, to include Surigao del Sur recently.

Paz, Veruela, Trento, Bunawan, Rosario, and San Francisco.

The second leg was conducted on April 2123, in five municipalities and one city in the province of Surigao del Sur namely Tandag City, Municipalities of Tago, Carmen, Madrid, Carrascal, and Cantilan.

RAFIS Chief Emmylou T. Presilda said the The first leg of the objective of the ASF Caravan was conducted Information Caravan last March 23-25 in six is to strengthen the municipalities in the collaboration of different province of Agusan government sectors del Sur namely La and officials starting Caraga INFOCUS

from the barangay until the regional level in crafting a wellestablished information strategy, action plans, ordinances, and other interventions towards blocking the entry and/ or containing the virus in their respective areas.

“The target audience for this ASF Information Caravan are the members of the Barangay LGU including their committee chairperson on agriculture, Key Officials of the respective municipalities/cities, May 1-7, 2021 |

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Barangay Animal Health Workers (BAHW), and their identified local task force since these people are the first line of the defense once cases are detected,” Presilda added.

The ASF Information Caravan is in coordination with partner agencies from the National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS) – Caraga, Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC) – Northern Mindanao, and the Provincial Veterinary Office of Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur. Discussed during the

Information Caravan include the ASF Prevention and Control, Government Strategies, ASF Contingency / Action Plan, and PCIC Swine Insurance. A forum was also established right after the presentation of topics to cater to the suggestions and inquiries of the participants.

The ASF has already taken a heavy toll on the hog industry, which affected numerous hog raisers in the country. Massive losses in production have been observed as it already directly affected the meat prices in the market, making

consumers wonder even more.

However, this was not just the case for some areas.

Processed contaminated pork products such as chorizo are sold online and these are all coordinated through illegal logistics, making it a challenge for the task force to swiftly contain the infection.

As the virus continues to spread across the country, implementations from the DA such as border control and disinfection have initiated to prevent the virus from spreading.

(DA13-RAFIS/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

ASF Information Caravan in Tago, Surigao del Sur on April 21, 2021 attended by various stakeholders. (Photo by PIA-SDS)

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Caraga INFOCUS

LGU, DOT COLLABORATE TO BOOST SURSUR TOWN’S TOURISM POTENTIAL The local government unit (LGU) of Carrascal has accelerated its effort to boost its potential tourism destinations and placed proactive preparations as the economic activities start to revive amidst the pandemic.

Carrascal Mayor Vicente “VJ” H. Pimentel III stressed that the tourism industry should coexist with the operation of the mines, as both would generate more income for the government coffers and the community entrepreneurs.

“The collective efforts between the private sectors like the mining companies and the local government will raise awareness that tourism will succeed and contribute to the economic benefits brought by the mine operations,” Mayor Pimentel said during the exit conference of the on-site assessment of three priority potential tourism sites recently.

The report said that the Department of Tourism (DOT)-Caraga Regional Office headed Caraga INFOCUS

by Regional Director Nelia Arina has recently conducted the onsite assessment of the proposed priority potential sites in the municipality.

Dir. Arina, on the other hand, stated that the development of diving sites is among the priorities of the DOT and the establishment of a diving circuit here in Surigao del Sur is being pipelined to be implemented as the pandemic continues to pose restrictions.

The activity initiated was to evaluate the potential tourism strengths and opportunities for the

development of the three potential sites-Maslog Cave, Carrascal Extreme Adventure Park, and Candido Diving Site considering the DOT’s recommendations conducted last April 21-23, 2021.

The conduct of the on-site assessment of the three priority potential tourism sites was also joined by the Surigao del Sur Provincial Tourism Office chief Mary Vil Cruz-Chan, and her staff with them and the Municipal Tourism Office of Carrascal town, it was learned. (with a report from LGU-Carrascal/PIASurigao del Sur) May 1-7, 2021 |

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PAGDIRIWANG NG PANGALAWANG MGA MAGSASAKA AT COVID-19 ISOLATION FACILITY SA SURSUR MANGINGISDA NGAYONG NG DPWH INAASAHANG MAYO, IPINAUBAYA NA NG DA SA MGA LGUS MATATAPOS Nakasalalay na sa mga local NGAYONG BUWAN government units (LGUs) ang

By Greg Tataro, Jr.

By Greg Tataro, Jr.

Tanging “finishing touches” na lang ang ginagawa para ganap na matapos ang pangalawang COVID-19 isolation facility ng Department of Public Works and Highway (DPWH) dito sa lalawigan ng Surigao del Sur. Ayon kay Asst. District Engineer Annabelle Acma ng 1st District Engineering Office (DEO), ang P25 Million halaga na imprastraktura ay inaasintang mai-turn-over sa loob nitong buwan ng Mayo, taong kasalukuyan.

Nito lang nagdaang buwan ng Abril ay nauna nang nai-turn-over ang kaparehong pasilidad na matatagpuan sa Bislig City.

Sa katunayan, ayon mismo kay DPWH 2nd District Engr. Noel Oclarit, malaking pakinabang ang nabanggit na pasilidad dahil pati aniya ilan sa kanyang mga tauhan na nadapoan ng COVID-19 ay kabilang sa naipasok. (DXJS RP Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

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paglatag ng mga aktibidad para itampok sa pagdiriwang ngayon buwan ng Mayo, bilang Buwan ng mga Magsasaka at Mangingisda.

Ito ang ginawang paglilinaw ni June Anthony Ouano, Jr., punong-opisyal ng Department of Agriculture (DA) Agricultural Program Coordinating Office (APCO) na nakatalaga sa Surigao del Sur. Kasunod nito ay sabay ding ipinabatid ang paksang-diwang “May Pandemya man o Wala, Magsasaka’t Mangingisda Maaasahan ng Bansa” na siyang inaantabayanang matanggap ng local agriculture office bago umarangkada ang buwan.

Bago pa man ang buwan ng Mayo ay naging abala na si Provincial Agriculturist Marcos Quico sa pakikipag-ugnayan sa kanyang mga katapat sa dalawang lungsod at 17 munisipyo ng probinsiya.

Samantala, tiniyak din ni Provincial Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Officer Bernesita Rojas ang pakikilahok ng kanilang sektor. (DXJS RP-Tandag/ PIA-Surigao del Sur) Caraga INFOCUS

U.S., PH CONCLUDE ‘CHILD PROTECTION COMPACT PARTNERSHIP’ The United States (U.S.) and Philippine government officials conducted the final high-level dialogue to mark accomplishments and outline next steps after the conclusion of the four-year U.S.Philippines Child Protection Compact (CPC) Partnership on April 29.

The dialogue centered on recognizing the progress made over the last four years towards achieving the CPC Partnership’s objectives of improving Caraga INFOCUS

the government’s capacity to investigate and prosecute cases of online sexual exploitation of children (OSEC); identify and respond to child labor trafficking; provide comprehensive services to protect child trafficking victims; and prevent future human trafficking crimes.

During the meeting, Philippine government officials and civil society leaders committed to carry forward and build on the accomplishments achieved under the partnership and

reaffirmed their commitment to combat all forms of child trafficking.

“Through the CPC, the Philippine government has been able to carve out a more targeted and focused response to OSEC by identifying key objectives and adjusting critical resources in order to address priority responses in the prevention and prosecution of OSEC cases as well as the protection of victim survivors,” said Department of Justice May 1-7, 2021 |

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Secretary Menardo Guevarra.

Emphasizing the U.S. commitment, the U.S. State Department’s Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons (TIP Office) Acting Director Dr. Kari Johnstone said, “Today we celebrate the tremendous work accomplished under the Child Protection Compact Partnership over the last four years and look ahead towards new initiatives to sustain the improved capacity of both the Government of the Philippines and civil society organizations achieved under this partnership.”

“Our strong partnership with the Philippine government and civil society organizations has built a solid foundation reflected in various efforts aimed at eliminating all forms of exploitation against children. I remain confident that this Partnership will become even more effective at combating many forms of abuse against of children in the years to come,”

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said U.S. Embassy in the Philippines Chargé d’Affaires John Law. The partnership, signed by the two governments in 2017, concluded on April 11, 2021. Its jointly developed and implemented plan strengthened the capacity of the Philippine government and civil society to address online sexual exploitation of children and child labor trafficking in the Philippines, specifically improving their ability to prosecute and convict child traffickers, provide comprehensive, traumainformed care for victims, and prevent these crimes from occurring.

Throughout the partnership, the TIP Office committed P237 million ($4.9 million) and the Philippine

Department of Justice Inter - Agency Council Against Trafficking in Persons pledged approximately P44.6 million ($921,760) to meet these objectives.

Programming was implemented by partner organizations International Justice Mission and The Salvation Army.

Under it, the International Justice Mission has successfully identified 312 child victims of online sexual exploitation and facilitated the arrests of 97 perpetrators of trafficking crimes, while The Salvation Army trained more than 355 social workers on victimcentered care and directly supported 44 survivors in aftercare facilities. (U.S. Embassy in the Philippines/PIASurigao del Norte) Caraga INFOCUS

people about the effects and benefits of the vaccine and that there is a need to counter the fake news that are proliferating in the social media.

DILG, LGU LIBJO TEAM UP TO PROMOTE VACCINE The local government unit (LGU) of Libjo and the Department of the Interior and Local Government have joined hands to promote the country’s vaccination program, in response to the dismal number of persons who are willing to be vaccinated.

of them are willing to be inoculated.

He said that the local government of Libjo wanted to intensify efforts to educate the

“The local government is forming an advocacy team to composed of Municipal Inter-Agency Task Force, Municipal Peace and Order Council members, Rural Health Unit personnel and volunteers to visit barangays and convince people to be vaccinated,” Edulzura said.

The LGU earmarked P1.6 million for the vaccine on top of the national government’s allocation.

(DILG-Libjo/PIA-Dinagat Islands)

According to Municipal Local Government Operations Officer Bryan Edulzura of Libjo in an informal face-to-face survey conducted by the DILG contact tracers among barangay officials and workers in Libjo, about 30 percent Caraga INFOCUS

May 1-7, 2021 |

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25 COMDEV WORKERS MILAMPOS SA 10-DAY GENERAL ORIENTATION COURSE

ni Gobernador Kaka Bag-ao pinaagi sa Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) nga gipasiugdahan sa Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) alang sa paghimo ug usa ka alyansa nga aktibong kasosyo sa komunidad nga mahimong tulay ngadto sa gobyerno diin andam nga makigtambayayong sa paghatag ug maayong serbisyo katawhan ug kalambuan sa probinsya.

Nagmalampuson ang 25 ka mga Community Development Workers (CDW) sa 10-ka adlaw nga General Orientation Course sa Dinagat Alliance for Development (DIAD) nga gipahigayon bag-ohay pa lamang didto sa Kaningag Cottage, Sitio Kaningag, Cuarinta, lungsod sa San Jose.

nagkalahing personalidad Mitambong sa maong sa mga katawhan nga programa sila DILG ilang mahimamat sa Provincial Director komunidad.

Domingo E. Bulabog, Chief of Staff to the Lakip ang kahibalo sa Governor Josel E. pagsabot sa kahimtang Gonzales, Provincial ug kalisod sa mga katawhan diin usa sa ilang Community Affairs Officer tumong ang magtabang Jay G. Benitez, DIAD Community Coordinator sa mga yanong sektor Gaudencio Macabales, o people’s organization Office of the Provincial sa pagpaabot sa ilang Agriculturist (OPAG) mga panginahanglanon Supervising Agriculturist Nadawat sa 25 ka mga ug makasuporta sa CDWs ang ilang tagsapagpalambo sa ilang / Planning Officertagsa ka certificates nga panginabuhian nga Designate Alan S. Azares, nagpamatuod nga sila adunay patas nga Senior Aquaculturist nakahuman sa training katungod nga haom Gilbert V. Anguay, mga diin dala niini ang ilang sa sistema ug tukma personahe sa Municipal mga nakat-onan nga nagsunod sa balaod.

Local Government leksyon ug kapabilidad Operations Offices sa mga hiyas isip usa ka Usa lamang kini sa mga (MLGOOs), ug Philippine community organizer apil padayong lakang sa National Police (PNP). ang klasi-klasing pagsabot probinsya nga namugna (Dinagat Islands-PIO/PIAsa mga kinaiya ug ilalom sa pagdumala Dinagat Islands)

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Caraga INFOCUS

MINDANAO NEWS

MINDA STARTS AVOCADO INDUSTRY UNITING FARMERS, STAKEHOLDERS When the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) holds a virtual convention on May 17 to launch the Hass Avocado and Jackfruit Industry in Mindanao, it will learn from the sad and painful lessons of the disorganized agroindustrial ventures like rubber, palm oil and Cavendish banana.

chain leaving farmers at the mercy of rubber cup lumps traders.

had left these sectors in the doldrums.

The Cavendish Banana This is the same narrative Industry, for example, for both the Oil Palm propelled the Philippines and Cavendish Banana to the status of the where government second largest producer support and interventions in the world, a distinction had been sorely missing which is now threatened leaving both sectors to by the unabated fend for themselves. devastation of banana farms by the Fusarium In fact, it was only during Wilt or Panama Disease The Rubber Industry my time as Secretary of and the cut-throat which was first Agriculture when the competition among introduced to Mindanao Banana Industry took the farmers themselves. through Basilan, first step to full organizing Zamboanga and with the creation of With these lessons in Cotabato over a century the Banana Industry mind, I will present to ago had been beset by Development Council. the participants during a free-for-all attitude with the Hass Avocado no set and accepted The absence of and Abuyog Jackfruit standards in production a governmentVirtual Convention a and the failure to assisted research and development approach complete the value development program which covers all areas -

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Caraga INFOCUS

from product research and development, to reliable funding programs, to scientific and efficient production, to a consolidated marketing program and a complete value chain.

Led by the Mindanao Avocado and Jackfruit Organizing Council (MAJOR-C), both sectors will draw a road map which would carefully craft production targets based on the market’s absorptive capacity.

There will be no madrush to plant, which Caraga INFOCUS

marked the introduction of new agricultural crops in Mindanao in the past, as the Road Map will identify which areas are suited for the development of these new crops.

Capacity will be the guiding principles which MinDA will inculcate into the minds of the farmers and stakeholders of these new industries.

With these guidelines religiously observed, the Only those whose Philippines could rise areas are ideal for the to become one of the growing of these crops major producers of Hass will be accredited as Avocado and Jackfruit members of the new in the world in sectors who will subscribe 5 to 10 years, just as it to the production and did with Cavendish environmental protocols Banana production. to be set by MAJOR-C. This time, we have to Quality, Quantity and start with the right foot.

Market Absorptive May 1-7, 2021 |

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BARMM STARTS CONSTRUCTION OF ISOLATION HUB IN ARMY CAMP

By Noel Punzalan CONSTRUCTION STARTS. Officials led by BARMM Deputy Executive Secretary Abdullah Cusain (2nd from left), and Army’s 6ID commander Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy (3rd from left) pose before the camera during the groundbreaking rites for the construction of the PHP11.24million Covid-19 isolation facility at Camp Siongco in Barangay Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao on Monday (May 3, 2021).

The facility is scheduled for completion within the next 45 days. (Photo courtesy of BIOBARMM)

The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao has started the construction of a PHP11.24-million coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) isolation facility for the Army’s 6th Infantry Division (6ID) inside this camp.

BARRM and 6ID officials, led by BARMM Deputy Executive Secretary Abdullah Cusain and 6ID commander Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, respectively, broke ground at the site of the two-story, 60-bed Covid-19 isolation facility project here on Monday afternoon.

“The project is set to be completed within 45 days,” Cusain told

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reporters in an interview on Tuesday.

He said the facility is primarily intended for soldiers and personnel of the Joint Task Force Central manning checkpoints and maintaining the peace in communities of Central Mindanao amid the pandemic.

sectors, such as the local government units (LGUs), in constructing similarly needed infrastructures in their areas.

Uy, for his part, thanked the BARMM government for the establishment of a Covid-19 facility inside the camp a reality.

“It is for the use of the 6ID, and they can share it with people in nearby communities if infected with the virus,” Cusain said.

“This will not only benefit the 6ID, but also the armor, marines, air force, naval components, and other support units in the area,” he said in a statement issued also on Tuesday.

He noted that the regional government has earlier extended the same Covid-19 assistance to various

He said stakeholders and people from the adjoining Awang village, among others, could also use the Covid-19 facility. (PNA) Caraga INFOCUS

NATIONAL NEWS

Communications Secretary Martin Andanar

OPEN, FREE PRESS REMAIN VITAL DURING PANDEMIC: ANDANAR During World Press Freedom Day, Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar has emphasized the vital role of having a free press during this time of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic, noting that the public has heavily relied on getting their information from the media.

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In his statement on Monday, Andanar underscored that an open, free, and pluralistic press remains a vital foundation of a democratic, informed, and empowered society.

in currently calls for,” he said.

He cited the efforts of members of the media in increasing public awareness on the responses that the government is currently “Its presence plays a key undertaking to curb role in preventing people the impacts of the from being unknowing pandemic. of essential and lifesaving information and The media has been government programs an invaluable partner and services, to which of the government in the situation we are all disseminating important Caraga INFOCUS

announcements and information that allow the public to understand the Covid-19, and likewise provide them with updates on the implementation of various emergency measures and initiatives.

“With the Covid-19 pandemic, the importance of an open and free press has become very evident as it allows for the flow of essential and life-saving information for us all.

It has also assisted the Duterte administration in increasing public awareness of policies and programs, such as the ayuda (aid) payouts, targeted testing, and the current vaccine inoculation, which address the virus and its effects,” he said. “The untiring reportage and coverage provided by the press on important matters have helped keep us updated of the facts and the news.”

Andanar further noted that the Duterte administration continues to support the freedom of the press. This is evident through the various initiatives and Caraga INFOCUS

legislations of the government, including the Freedom of Information, Presidential Task Force on Media Security, and the expanded Sotto Law. “The rights and freedom of the press have always been important to this administration as it benefits every Filipino,” he said.

“May we continue to eradicate biased information, disinformation, and fake news that are damaging not only to our society, but also to the trust and relationship between the government and the people, by working together at this crucial time despite our differences,” he said.

He urged members of the press to help strengthen the trust and relationship between the Filipino people and the government by relentlessly combating malicious information that in turn can create confusion and public discord.

“We salute the heroism, commitment, and bravery of all journalists and media workers as they fulfill their work. We pray for the safety and well-being of everyone as we recover from this global health crisis,” he added. (PR) May 1-7, 2021 |

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WE’RE DOING EVERYTHING TO ADDRESS COVID-19 - PRESIDENT DUTERTE Addressing a pandemicweary population, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has assured Filipinos Monday that his government is doing everything to uplift their condition and vowed to lift the present quarantine restrictions once the situation stabilizes.

“Pag-usapan natin ‘yong ang nasa loob ng Pilipino.

One is the hunger. We are trying to do everything we can within the limited resources of government and, of course, ‘yong the opening,” President Duterte said in his weekly public address.

“But let me assure to the people that once things begin to clear, we will lift the quarantine immediately without delay.

Sa mga kasamahan ko, maraming salamat sa pagkinig ninyo and I hope that you’d continue to listen to government.”

Secretary Francisco Duque III reported the decreasing percentage of people infected by coronavirus in the Philippines.

“Ang atin pong pangunahing mensahe ngayon linggo: Una po, patuloy na bumababa ang mga naitatalang kaso sa buong bansa, kabilang po rito ang National Capital Region,” said Duque.

Duque said the national growth rate is also improving from 11 percent three to four weeks ago to negative 15 percent recently. There’s also a drop in the average daily attack rate.

“Kung ikukumpara po natin ang lagay ng average daily attack rate ng NCR noong nagkaroon po tayo ng pinakamataas na bilang, makikita na malaki na ang ating inimprove mula sa 34 per 100,000 population ay bumaba po ito sa 25 cases per 100,000 population,” he told the President.

It is important, he said, to listen to health experts who provide valuable advice on how the country can navigate out of the As COVID-19 infections pandemic. decrease, the healthcare utilization rates (HCUR) also Also on Monday, Health improve, Duque said.

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This was the result of the declining number of patients being admitted in the hospitals and the expanding capacities in hospital ICU beds, the health chief explained.

As the variants of concern continue to spread in 12 regions, Duque said there’s a need for the strict implementation of prevention, detection, isolation, treatment and reintegration strategies.

“Kami ay muling nananawagan para sa mas mahigpit na border control at pagsunod sa ating quarantine protocols upang mapigilan natin ang pagkalat ng variants of concern na dala ng mga international travelers, kabilang ang mga returning overseas Filipinos,” he said.

As of Monday, May 3, the Department of Health (DOH) has recorded 7,255 new COVID-19 cases, bringing the country’s active cases to 69,466 or 6.54 percent of the total cases.

There’s a total of 975,234 recoveries while the fatality figure is at 17,525. PND Caraga INFOCUS

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte talks to the people after holding a meeting with the Inter-Agency Task Force on the Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) core members at the Malacañang Golf (Malago) Clubhouse in Malacañang Park, Manila on May 3, 2021. KING RODRIGUEZ/ PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

GOV’T TO FOCUS ON VULNERABLE AREAS IN COVID-19 VACCINE ROLLOUT Gov’t to focus on vulnerable areas in COVID-19 vaccine rollout The government should prioritize inoculating key areas with economic and social importance to fend off further COVID-19 surges and enable the economy to quickly recover, the country’s vaccine czar said on Monday.

In his report to President Caraga INFOCUS

Rodrigo Roa Duterte, Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. said the current constriction in global vaccine supply would affect vaccine deliveries and the government’s vaccine rollout.

“Mr. President, considering magkaroon tayo ng tinatawag na falloff or shortfall sa ating mga supply, we are recommending

na magkaroon tayo ng prioritization po, Mr. President,” Galvez said.

“So meaning, tingnan po natin ‘yong mga areas na mayroon pong tinatawag na economic at saka social importance. At saka magkakaroon tayo ng malaking problema pagka hindi natin po naagapan lalo po ang NCR (National Capital May 1-7, 2021 |

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Region).”

Galvez, who is also the chief implementer of the National Task Force Against COVID-19, recommended concentrating in hard-hit areas last year.

These areas include NCR, Calabarzon, Central Luzon, Baguio City, Cordillera Administrative Region, Cagayan Valley and other areas.

The prioritization also includes Cebu City, Bacolod City, Iloilo City, Western Visayas, Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas, and other areas in the Visayas with high active cases.

If the government could achieve herd immunity in badly hit areas, Galvez said it would give the country better chances for quick economic recovery and prevent possible surges in traditional and very vulnerable areas.

“So ganoon po ang gagawin po nating strategy kasi kung magkakaroon tayo ng shortfall doon po sa constriction ng global supply, we will target more or less mga 50 to 60 (percent) of population instead of 70 to 80 to 90 para targeted ang ano po natin,” he told the President.

The vaccine czar Davao City, Cagayan also gave an update de Oro City, Zamboanga on recent vaccine City, General Santos City, procurements and Iligan City, Zamboanga rollout, telling the Peninsula, Northern President that so far, Mindanao, and Davao there is a total 4,040,600 Region are the priority vaccine doses delivered areas in Mindanao. to the Philippines.

Galvez said the government should also recalibrate its mass vaccination program and concentrate in immunizing 83 million of the country’s population instead of 110 million.

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China’s Sinovac will upscale its vaccine supply for the country, vowing to bring in 1.5 million doses instead of just 500,000 doses for its May 7 delivery, according to Galvez.

The government is also negotiating with Russia’s Gamaleya Research Institute for a monthly delivery of two million doses.

Talks are also ongoing with the COVAX facility and the World Health Organization (WHO) for the delivery of AstraZeneca and Pfizer vaccines totaling 2.3 million doses.

Galvez reported that the government has deployed 3.7 million doses and has inoculated 1.6 million Filipinos.

“And nakikita po natin na papataas din po ‘yong ating mga deliveries. Starting po ng June, magkakaroon na po tayo ng more or less 10.3 million doses dahil po darating na rin po ang Moderna at saka po ‘yong AstraZeneca,” he said.

“So apat na po ang magde-deliver this coming June. And ganoon din po sa third quarter, darating na rin po ‘yong ibang mga deliveries.” PND Caraga INFOCUS

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte presides over a meeting with the Inter-Agency Task Force on the Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) core members prior to his talk to the people at the Malacañang Golf (Malago) Clubhouse in Malacañang Park, Manila on May 3, 2021. KING RODRIGUEZ/ PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

P17-BILLION AID DISBURSED IN NCR-PLUS, SAYS INTERIOR CHIEF The government has so far distributed P17 billion out of the P22.9 billion instructed by the President Rodrigo Roa Duterte be given to lowincome families in the NCR-Plus, the interior and local government secretary said on Monday.

In his report to the President, Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo Año said the amount Caraga INFOCUS

benefitted 17,037,122 beneficiaries out of the total of 22,915,422 beneficiaries.

In Metro Manila, the government disbursed P8.6 billion; Bulacan, P2.1 billion; Cavite, P2.1 billion; Laguna, P2.3 billion; and Rizal, P1.7 billion.

“So patuloy po ang pagdi-distribute ng ating mga ayuda.

At sa ngayon po ay

mayroon tayong natanggap na 59,669 complaints. Na-resolve na po ang 24,421; under deliberation ay 39,781; at ang iba naman ay in-endorse po natin sa ibang ahensya,” Año reported.

“Ang target po natin ay lahat ng complaint na ito ay maresolba at masagot ng ating mga LGUs bago dumating ang May 15, at totally 100 percent po May 1-7, 2021 |

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maipamahagi ang lahat ng ayuda.”

Meanwhile, Año said the DILG issued a memorandum circular to local chief executives, Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) minister of local government, DILG regional directors, and the chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), defining the roles of the local officials in the implementation of minimum public health standard and prohibition on mass gatherings.

Local chief executives were supposed to enforce the InterAgency Task Force (IATF) guidelines as well as RA 11332, especially section 9 paragraph D and paragraph E, Mandatory Reporting of Notifiable Disease[s] and Health “Ang PNP po ay tutulong Events of Public Health sa ating mga local Concern Act. chief executives sa pagpapatupad nito.

Local officials may face Pero ang PNP po ay administrative and --- they will go after criminal charges if they the violators and even against local chief fail to enforce the law executives na hindi and prosecute violators, magpapatupad ng mga Año said, adding the batas,” Año said.

PNP is also ready to Based on the President’s order, governors, mayors and barangay captains were mandated to carry out the IATF guidelines on the prohibition on mass gathering such as parties, fiestas, cockfights and other events.

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make arrests if necessary.

The officials were also mandated to create a citizen’s feedback mechanism by putting up complaint centers and hotline numbers where the public can ventilate its grievances.

“So ipatutupad po namin ito at mahigpit po nating sisiguruhin na walang magaganap na mga mass gathering habang tayo po ay nasa ilalim ng mga community quarantine lalo na sa MECQ,” he said. PND Caraga INFOCUS

PRESIDENT DUTERTE HONORS NATION’S FRONTLINERS IN LABOR DAY MESSAGE President Duterte honors nation’s frontliners in Labor Day message President Rodrigo Roa Duterte recognized the sacrifices Saturday of Filipino workers who continue to toil to keep the society functioning in the face of an unprecedented health crisis that crippled industries globally.

“On behalf of a grateful nation, I express my deepest gratitude to our hardworking healthcare workers and essential frontliners for their unwavering commitment in ensuring the unhampered delivery of goods and services that continue to sustain our communities and industries during these difficult times,” President Duterte said in his Labor Caraga INFOCUS

Day message.

“To all Filipino workers here and abroad, let me ensure you that this administration will endeavor to work as vigorously as you have in creating an environment where security of tenure, statutory labor standards and workers’ rights are not only upheld and protected, but also cherished as the foundations of a strong and thriving forceforce,” he added.

The President rallied for unity in rebuilding a stronger and more resilient society that can be left behind to the succeeding generations of Filipinos.

The government announced its plan to

immunize 5,000 laborers during the Labor Day commemoration as it gears towards vaccinating the country’s economic frontliners.

More vaccine deliveries are expected in June, and this will enable the government to start vaccinating Filipino economic frontliners, said Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr, the country’s vaccine czar.

The government started immunizing healthcare workers, senior citizens, and persons with comorbidities last March and eyes to conclude it

by July.

So far, a million healthcare workers have been vaccinated. PND May 1-7, 2021 |

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AT LEAST 70% OF PINOYS EYED FOR VACCINATION THIS YEAR

By Lade Jean Kabagani National Task Force Against Covid-19 Chief Implementer Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. (Screengrab)

The government is targeting to achieve herd immunity in the National Capital Region (NCR) and nearby provinces by November, National Task Force (NTF) Against Covid-19 chief implementer Carlito Galvez Jr. said Tuesday.

Galvez noted that the Philippines will need a stable supply of at least 15 million doses per month so it can inoculate about 70 percent of the population before the end of the year.

“We can have the herd immunity in NCR and six provinces around NCR

by November. Iyon ang tinitingnan namin (That’s what we are looking at), 180 days,” he said during the Palace press briefing Caraga INFOCUS

held at Ayala Malls Manila to strategic areas, like Bay in Parañaque City Calabarzon and Central during the Sputnik V rollout. Luzon.

The government is eyeing herd immunity in strategic areas with a significant number of Covid-19 infections and with the “highest economic and social impact” despite limited supplies.

“Realistically, we will have a shortfall of supply. We need to strategize that we will get the same effect,” Galvez said.

The government should be able to inoculate 120,000 residents daily in the NCR, Bulacan, Laguna, Cavite, and Rizal.

Galvez earlier said they will also bring vaccines

“If we can achieve herd immunity by vaccinating up to 70 percent of the residents in these areas, there is a big chance that our economy will recover and we can prevent a surge in cases,” he said.

To date, the Philippines has administered some 1,948,080 Covid-19 vaccines for 1,658,539 Filipinos.

The percentage to achieve herd immunity can’t be determined yet, according to the World Health Organization, as Covid-19 is a new disease and further studies must be made. (PNA) May 1-7, 2021 |

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GOV’T WON’T STOP BUILDING TO ACHIEVE ‘BUFFER’ MEDICAL FACILITIES

By Ferdinand Patinio

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) said it will continue to construct isolation centers and modular hospitals until “buffer” medical facilities are met as the country continues to grapple with the Covid-19 pandemic.

“At tuloy-tuloy naman ang pagtatayo natin ng centers and definitely hindi tayo titigil until magkaroon tayo ng buffer sa ating (We continue to build centers and definitely we will not stop until we have a buffer on our) medical facilities,” DPWH Secretary Mark Villar said during the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) meeting presided over by President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday night.

Villar reported that there are some 660 modular facilities with over 24,000 beds that are now functioning nationwide.

He said 603 of these facilities are being used for isolation

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equipped for our front-liners.

They have a lounge area with TV, Wi-Fi, and computer.

They have their own kitchen and laundry facilities,” Villar “At present, there are 816 facilities for 27,280 beds in the said. “Our doctors from provinces, they can stay in pipeline,” he said. these facilities and also for doctors or nurses who are He said the 10 modular working overtime, they can facilities are fully equipped stay here.” for Covid-19 patients. with 23,046 beds and 10 as modular hospitals with 239 beds.

“There is negative pressure, nurse facilities such as nurse call button, antibacterial cladding. They also have their own oxygen supply for the patients with middle to severe cases,” he added.

He said the DPWH also constructed 49 off-site dormitories with 1,228 beds for front-liners near the modular hospitals.

“The facilities are also fully

Villar noted that the occupancy rate in the quarantine facilities all over the country is now declining.

“Our occupancy rate in our quarantine facilities nationwide is 21 percent. The rate in NCR (National Capital Region) is high at 50.97 percent. But what is good is the trend on occupancy rate is reducing, last month it was at 60 percent. Now, it’s 50 percent,” he said. (PNA)

Caraga INFOCUS

PH TO GET UP TO 7M DOSES OF COVID-19 VAX IN MAY: GALVEZ

By Lade Jean Kabagani

The Philippines will start receiving the bulk of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccines of up to 7 million doses this month, said vaccine czar Sec. Carlito Galvez Jr., also chief implementer of the National Task Force (NTF) Against Covid-19.

“Ang maganda po dito ‘yong delivery natin ng ano ng May, baka po from 4 million madadagdagan po tayo ng 7 million. Malaki po ‘yon, Mr. President, kasi ang dadagdag po dito ‘yong COVAX mukhang makakapag-deliver na po ng Pfizer at saka ng AstraZeneca (The good news is that, the delivery this May may increase from 4 million doses up to 7 million doses. That’s a huge volume, Mr. President, because the COVAX facility may also be delivering Pfizer and AstraZeneca vaccines),” Galvez told President Rodrigo Duterte in a Cabinet meeting Wednesday night.

Galvez assured that enough doses dedicated for the vaccinees’ second shots would arrive on time. “’Yong second dose wala na po tayong problema.

Caraga INFOCUS

Mayroon po tayong makukuha ngayong May more or less baka mga 1 million or 2 million na AstraZeneca. Iyong definite date lang po ang ina-ano po natin. So matutuwa na po ‘yong mga nakapagfirst dose dahil kasi mayroon pong padating na COVAX na AstraZeneca (We don’t have a problem with the second dose. We might be having more or less 1 million or 2 million doses of AstraZeneca this May. We are just working on the definite dates so we are glad because the AstraZeneca vaccines from the COVAX Facility will be delivered),” he said.

As of May 4, a total of 2,065,235 Filipinos have been vaccinated with at least one dose against Covid-19, with 320,586 persons fully vaccinated.

The bulk of the vaccines will be arriving in June, allowing the government to begin the inoculation of the general populace, Galvez added.

“So pataas po nang pataas ang volume po, Mr. President.

Talagang ang medyo nahirapan lang po tayo

FIRST BATCH. Top national government officials and delegates look on as airport personnel unwraps the first shipment of Sputnik V Covid-19 vaccine that arrived at the NAIA Terminal 3 in Pasay City on Saturday (May 1, 2021). The first 15,000 doses of the Russian-made vaccine arrived on board a Qatar Airways flight from Moscow while the next batch of 485,000 doses is expected to be delivered within May. (PNA photo by Robert Oswald P. Alfiler)

noong March at saka April.

Pero ngayong May medyo mayroon pong bubuhos sa atin (We will be receiving an increased volume of vaccines, we really had hard times during March and April, but this May, more vaccines will be arriving),” he said.

An estimated 20-30 percent of the country’s healthcare workers have yet to be vaccinated, according to Galvez, as they opted to wait for the arrival of other brands of Covid-19 vaccines.

Despite negative reports, Galvez said the public’s acceptance of the Covid-19 vaccines has significantly increased, noting that more Filipinos wanted to get immunized.

To date, data from Our World in Data show that the Philippines is fourth among Southeast Asian nations with the most number of vaccine doses administered.

With the arrival of more vaccines this month, Galvez said the government’s target to vaccinate 500,000 persons daily is “very doable”. (PNA)

May 1-7, 2021 |

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