Caraga InFocus – May 29-June 4, 2021 by Caraga InFocus

Volume V, No. 23 May 29-June 4, 2021

REGIONAL NEWS

8 10 11 13 15 16 17 19 20 21 22 24 25 26 27 28 PROVINCIAL NEWS 30 32 33 34 36

FUNDRAISER FOR VULNERABLE SECTORS LAUNCHED BY LOCAL SK

BUTUAN CITY SK LAUNCHES MENTAL HEALTH CAMPAIGN AMID PANDEMIC

LEARNERS RECEIVE HEALTH WELLNESS KITS FROM DEPED-BUTUAN, BSP CARAGA RTF-ELCAC, CSU GEAR UP CAMPAIGN VS CTG RECRUITMENT RTWPB CARAGA CONDUCTS TRAINING ON BIZ CONTINUITY PLANNING

CARAGA AGRI-FISHERY SECTOR JOINS IN PEACE, DEV’T CONFERENCE

RPAB APPROVES 6 PROPOSALS FOR PRIORITIZATION RUN IN CARAGA DA CHIEF DIRECTS BSWM TO SET UP MODERN SOIL LABORATORIES

FARMERS, FISHERFOLKS RECEIVE DEEP-SEA FISHING LIVELIHOOD GRANT FROM DOLE DSWD, IJM EQUIP FRONTLINERS HANDLING ONLINE SEXUAL EXPLOITATION CASES KALAHI-CIDSS CARAGA LAUNCHES SUBPROJECT LOCATOR MOBILE APP PESO INSTITUTIONALIZATION: FOR BETTER PUBLIC EMPLOYMENT SERVICE

OIE ENDORSES PROGRAM TO CONTROL DOG-MEDIATED RABIES PAGBANSAY SA MGA NEGOSYANTENG MAG-UUMA KABAHIN SA BEST GAME TRAINING, GIHINGUSGAN SA LGU BUTUAN ORDINANSA SA BUTUAN CITY MENTAL HEALTH CARE AND WELLNESS COORDINATING ENHANCED LEADERSHIP UG BASIC BOOKEEPING, GITUDLO SA MGA FARMER LEADERS UG OPISYALES SA MGA ASOSASYON UG KOOPERATIBA SURIGAO DEL NORTE PPO IMPLEMENTS ‘BARANGAYANIHAN’ PROGRAM

SURIGAO NORTE LGU, NHA INK MOA FOR MAMANWA HOUSING PROJECT

COMMIT TO QUIT: NAGKAKAISANG PILIPINO PARA SA ‘NO YOSI’

PINAKAUNANG SEARCH, RESCUE BASE SA BANSA PINASINAYAAN NG PCG PPO SURIGAO NORTE JOINS SIMULTANEOUS LAUNCHING OF ‘BRIGADA ESTASYON’

37 38 40 41 42 43 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 54

34 AGUSAN DEL NORTE RAISES CODE BLUE STATUS DUE TO TS DANTE TYPHOON AURING-AFFECTED RESIDENTS IN BUTUAN CITY, AGNOR CONTINUE TO RECEIVE AID LGU BUTUAN EYES INTERVENTION TO REDUCE TEEN PREGNANCIES POPCOM JOINS UN BODY CALLING FOR WOMEN, GIRLS’ RIGHTS MENTAL HEALTH AT PSYCHOSOCIAL SUPPORT SERVICES BINIGYANG IMPORTANSYA SA AGUSAN DEL NORTE SENIOR CITIZENS SA AGUSAN NORTE KUMBINSIDO MAGPABAKUNA BATOK COVID-19 PARTISIPASYON SA CSOS SA AGNOR, GIHISGUTAN SA FORUM PAGBANSAY ALANG SA PLANT! PLANT! PLANT! PROJECT, GISUGDAN NA SURSUR LGU REPORTS HIGH COVID-19 VACCINE ACCEPTANCE RATE AMONG LOCALS MANOBO TRIBE IN SURSUR TOWN HOSTS FIRST TRIBAL WEDDING SURSUR SP ON 14-DAY LOCKDOWN AFTER 2 EMPLOYEES GET COVID-19 DA CONDUCTS LIVELIHOOD, POULTRY INFO - EARLY WARNING SYSTEM WORKSHOP IN SURSUR RESPONSIBLE PARENTHOOD, FAMILY PLANNING PROGRAM INTENSIFIED IN SURSUR VILLAGES WORLD BANK MEETS AGSUR TOWN’S BANANA COOP PRLEC ACTIVITY IN AGSUR SHOWCASES DOLE PROGRAMS

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CONTENTS

INFOCUS

COVER

Caraga

MINDANAO NEWS MINDA UNVEILS 2 EU-FUNDED ENERGY PROJECTS AT MINDANAO POWER FORUM PROJECT GAINS SUPPORT: MINDA, PARTNERS SET UP 10 MORE IRRIGATED UPLAND RICE PILOT GARMS

NATIONAL NEWS

ANDANAR OPTIMISTIC ABOUT ‘FASTER’ RECOVERY OF MARAWI FIRST PIA OFFICE OUTSIDE METRO MANILA TO RISE IN BAGUIO PCOO, DOH HAND OVER UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE KITS TO MIPAGA TS

PRESIDENT DUTERTE PLACES NCR PLUS, OTHER AREAS UNDER GCQ IN JUNE INDIVIDUALS SELLING VACCINATION SLOTS WILL BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE, SAYS PRESIDENT DUTERTE

COVID-19 NEWS

PH TO GET AT LEAST 2M DOSES MONTHLY FROM COVAX PRRD INCLINED TO GIVE WESTERN-MADE VAX TO SEAFARERS GOV’T TO START VACCINATING ‘A4’ PRIORITY GROUP IN JUNE

DICT Caraga gets GECS-MOVE project By Jennifer P. Gaitano

The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) spearheaded on Friday the Regional Handover Ceremony of the Government Emergency Communications System (GECS) Project - Mobile Operations Vehicle for Emergency (MOVE) to its regional office here held at The Pavilion of Watergate, with the presence of various stakeholders in Caraga region. With the said project, the DICT opted to engage stakeholders and disseminate information regarding the project’s objectives,

| May 29-June 4, 2021

role, and capabilities when responding to communication demands during disasters.

government emergency communications in view of public service continuity.

It is also aimed to achieve the following: 1) Handover of the GECS MOVE sets to the DICT Regional Offices; 2) Highlight the technical capabilities of GECS MOVE in responding to disaster; 3) Establish linkage with local stakeholders in view of emergency communications; 4) Showcase the speciallyengineered vehicles for appreciation of the local responding agencies; and 5) Establish the national significance of resilient

Dir. Sittie Rahma Alawi, OIC-Regional Director of DICT-Mindanao Cluster 2, emphasized the importance of being equipped with high-end and useful equipment to be utilized during disasters and emergencies particularly in the field of communication so as not to hamper the delivery of relevant information and updates to the public. On behalf of Agusan del Norte Governor Dale Corvera, SB Board Member Elizabeth Calo shared his message Caraga INFOCUS

to all the participants/ guests of the said event and expressed that the provincial government fully supports this endeavor of the DICT for innovating new technology to better strengthen the communications operations, particularly in information and during disasters and communications emergencies. technology. With the absence of Calo further highlighted that with the GECS MOVE communication during a disaster, we would Project, it provides prenot be able to know the positioned assets for status and condition of immediate deployment the people in the area of the MOVE that affected by a disaster, incorporates integrated hence, this initiative and communications innovation are indeed equipment in defined very helpful in disaster areas being devastated risk reduction and by natural calamities, management. This is fast which will warrant and reliable when we immediate information talk of connectivity,” said transfer, thus providing Silor. prompt and critical decision-making. Also, Mats Persson, deputy country DICT Usec. Alan Silor, director of World Food who served as the Programme (WFP) keynote speaker of bared the organization’s the event, highlighted support to DICT especially the advantages of the in the operation of the equipment, especially GECS-MOVE in Caraga during disasters/ region. “With the emergencies. technology that is being placed here, the national “The MOVE is the and local governments government’s statecould understand better of-the-art reform Caraga INFOCUS

what is happening on the ground during disasters. We know that communication is extremely important,” he underscored. Meanwhile, Director Liza Mazo of the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and chair of the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) Caraga elaborated how communication is important during disasters. “We had experienced major natural disasters in the past and we know that without the advent of communications technology our response operation is greatly affected. An integrated communication system is really relevant in DRRM,” she cited. (JPG/PIACaraga) May 29-June 4, 2021 |

News Briefs The Caraga RTF COVID-19 will conduct its 33rd Meeting today, June 3, via Zoom platform. To be discussed are the latest updates on the region’s COVID-19 health situation report and the vaccination rollout; the implementation of MECQ in Butuan City and the province of Agusan del Sur, among others. xx

“We need help on how to control the infestation. There were several trainings already attended by our workers in agriculture but still many of our farmers are suffering,” expressed Mayor Crisanta Mondano of the municipality of Mainit in her interview today with PCOO Sec. Martin Andanar during the #NetworkBriefingNews. She also said the irrigation systems in barangays Roxas and Mabini also need to be rehabilitated. The LGU is planning as well of increasing the aid and give fertilizers for free. “The fertilizers meant to be used this planting season came late so our farmers had to borrow again. Assistance from stakeholders should be given on time,” she emphasized.

With the pronouncement of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on May 31, 2021, Butuan City is placed under Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ). As such, under the Omnibus Guidelines, as amended, the Department of Trade and Industry is authorized to issue a negative list of industries which shall remain prohibited under the said Community Quarantine classification. (VACCINATION ROLLOUT UPDATE) A total of 104,143 individuals are now vaccinated in Caraga region, as of June 1, 2021 DOH Caraga report. Vaccination is still ongoing for qualified individuals in the different vaccination sites of the region.

REGIONAL NEWS

Fundraiser for vulnerable sectors launched by local SK By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales

To sustain the efforts of the local government unit, the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Federation of this city launched various fundraisers to extend assistance to marginalized residents. During her guesting at the Network Briefing News on Tuesday, May 18, with Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Asec. JV Arcena, SK Federation Pres. Cynth Zephanee Nietes elaborated the projects of the youth to aid citizens in need when the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)

| May 29-June 4, 2021

pandemic struck. “Basically since last year, we had our resources realigned for COVID-19 responses so what we did was finding some network to support us financially kaya maraming naging partner namin from NGOs, CSOs, youth volunteers,” she said. In April, they launched the Share-A-Cup, a donation drive for vulnerable sectors greatly affected by the pandemic during the heightened community quarantine such as homeless persons, street children, public utility

vehicle (PUV)/padyak/ tricycle drivers, and stud ents as well as frontline workers. Food packs containing rice, canned goods, instant milk drink, poultry products such as chicken and egg, crackers, and face masks were given to chosen beneficiaries. One of such partnerships included that with Tudlo BXU, a non-profit, youth-led initiative that aims to help increase underprivileged students’ access to online learning. In July, they teamed up with the said youth group in four of its programs: Hataget; Caraga INFOCUS

Tudlo BXU Fundraiser; and Scratch4ED and distributed school supplies such as printers and reams of bond papers to select schools in the city. Even with the gradual adoption of the new normal, the local SK Federation continues to launch activities to cultivate youth engagement in the comfort of their own homes. A three-day online discourse entitled “An Hour with YOUth” was launched from May 17-19, 2021, to showcase Butuanon youths who have made significant contributions to the community in various ways.

For the first session, they featured Butuanon youth who excelled by pursuing their passion in sports, arts, and in their careers. Youth leaders whose a dvocacies are tied strongly to building peace and development in their community were featured in the second session and in the last session, youth advocates of philanthropy discussed their projects in response

to the current crisis. With the upcoming elections, Nietes said they are now actively encouraging the youth to actively participate in shaping the political climate of the country and have themselves register as voters. “Kami kasi yung dapat nasa frontlines. Dapat hindi kami indifferent at nangingialam dapat kami sa nangyayari sa bayan,” she added. This participation, the youth leader went on, can best be shown by religiously abiding health protocols. The local youth official called on fellow youth to listen to the authorities and abide by important advisories, especially those that will help curb the transmission of the disease. (DMNR/PIACaraga)

Caraga INFOCUS

May 29-June 4, 2021 |

Butuan City SK launches mental health campaign amid pandemic By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales

City, to remind local netizens to take a few moments to be mindful in order to start their day right and maintain a good mood throughout the day.

In addition to accessing basic necessities, maintaining mental health had also become even more challenging during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. This urged a group of public youth servants in this city to intervene and promote the importance of having a sound mental health, especially during an ongoing health crisis. Dubbed as #MindfulMonday, the city’s Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Federation launched the campaign earlier this year on March 22, 2021 to address the deteriorating mental

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health not only of the Butuanon youth but of the other residents in the city. “We came up with #MindfulMonday where we post something to encourage people to live on,” said SK Federation President Cynth Zephanee Nietes during her guesting at the Network Briefing News on Tuesday, May 18, with Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Asec. JV Arcena.

The youth group also partnered with the Department of Health (DOH) Caraga to encourage more residents to reach out to the department’s hotline for psychological support. “Residents can also reach out when they feel overwhelmed at the moment and may need someone to talk to about what’s bothering them,” Nietes added.

To access immediate mental health support, dial 09086158754 (Smart)/09272304885 (Globe) or message Motivational quotes and the city SK Federation mantras are posted every through https://www. facebook.com/skfed. Monday on their official butuancity/. (DMNR/PIAFacebook page, the SK Caraga) Pederasyon ng Butuan Caraga INFOCUS

Learners receive health wellness kits from DepEdButuan, BSP By Venus L. Garcia

Even with the prohibition of face-to-face classes in the Caraga region, the Department of Education (DepEd) - Butuan City Division continues to advance a holistic societal development of the learners through its Youth Formation Program. In partnership with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas - Butuan City, A hundred kindergarten and grade school students from the schools in barangays Masao and Agusan Pequeño in this city became recipients Caraga INFOCUS

of the health wellness kits that were distributed. The simple turnover program was attended by Margie Marte, deputy director of the Banko Sentral ng PilipinasButuan, schools division superintendent Marilou Dedumo, together with Evangeline Razon, youth information program focal officer. The school heads, district supervisors, teachers, and barangay officials were also present and gladly accept the kits intended for the learners.

The health wellness kits, comprising of face masks, face shield, alcohol and soap, were then immediately handed over to the student beneficiaries. “Thank you Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Butuan for extending your support DepEdButuan. We know that these kits are essential for the health and safety of our learners especially during this time of the pandemic. We are hoping and praying that we could strengthen our partnership so we May 29-June 4, 2021 |

can sustain all our programs for the young Butuanons as we uphold our mantra - One Butuan, We Love as One,” said Dr. Mariolou B. Dedumo, schools division superintendent of the DepEd – Division of Butuan City. The student recipients conveyed their gratitude for the assistance in a form of a health wellness kit that they received. “Maraming salamat po sa inyong pagbibigay halaga sa aming kalusugan at kaligtasan,” said Kezia Mae Pagsiat, president of the Supreme Pupil Government (SPG) of Masao Elementary School. A smile also radiated from the innocent face of Sheila Mae Uba, a kindergarten

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pupil. “Thank you so much. Masayangmasaya po ako sa aking natanggap,” she said.

nasabing health wellness kits para kahit papaano ay makakapagbigay tulong tayo sa kanila kahit sa ganitong According to Marte, it paraan. Salamat din may not be as grand as it sa ating masipag na is, however, it is important Youth Information to stay healthy and Program focal person safe especially with the na si Ms. Evangeline worsening situation due B. Razon sa kanyang to the pandemic. assistance at pagsisikap “These kits are essential para maisulong for their daily hygiene ang programang routine to get rid of the pangkabataan,” said virus,” said Marte. Tammy Tara Moldes, SPG adviser of Masao She likewise reminded Elementary School. the learners to continue practicing the health “At this trying time of standards such as the the pandemic, we are regular washing of hands, all aware that even the wearing of face mask world is at its grinding halt and face shields, social because of the impacts distancing, and staying made by the COVID-19. at home. It is in this lens that we give priority in addressing “Sana ay marami the pressing needs of the pang mga mag-aaral students,” said Razon. ang mabiyayaan ng (VLG/PIA-Caraga) Caraga INFOCUS

Caraga RTF-ELCAC, CSU gear up campaign vs CTG recruitment By Maj. Francisco Garello, Jr.

The Situational Awareness and Knowledge Management Cluster (SAKM) of the Caraga Regional Task Force Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict conducted a courtesy call and dialogue with the president and other key officials of Caraga State University (CSU) on May 27, 2021 at the CSU Conference Room, Ampayon Campus, Brgy. Ampayon, this city, and discussed ways and means to prevent Communist Terrorist Group’s (CTG’s) recruitment in the said school. The National Intelligence Coordinating Council (NICA) 10 as the lead agency of the SAKM cluster in close coordination with the 402nd Infantry

Caraga INFOCUS

(Stingers) Brigade, Philippine Army facilitated the said activity in order to solicit strong partnership and commitment from the CSU leadership in the implementation of Executive Order No. 70 particularly the conduct of Intensified Information Awareness Campaign to prevent CTG recruitment among the administration officials, faculty and staff, and the students of said university. Dr. Anthony Penaso, and Luisito Tabada, the CSU President and Vice President, respectively, together with some key officials warmly welcomed the SAKM cluster members led by NICA-10 Regional Director Manuel Orduna;

Brigadier General Maurito Licudine of 402nd Brigade Commander; Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Caraga regional director Leonida Calagui; Assistant Regional Director Fryan Abkilan of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga; PMaj. Rene Sarento and PLt. Col Jose Lumacang, of the Regional Intelligence Division and Regional Community Affairs Division; City Director Charice Guerta of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Butuan City; Col. Diosdado Peji, 15RCDG Group Commander; and Engr. Kier Betito, Propelling our Inherited Nation Thru our Youth (POINTY) 4ID Chapter President. Dir. Orduna shared the Cluster’s thrust and efforts and salient features of EO70. He also explained the rationale of the call cum dialogue and the vital role of the school officials to prevent CTG youth recruitment. Penaso also expressed his gratitude and allout support to the SAKM cluster’s efforts in preventing

May 29-June 4, 2021 |

CTG recruitment. He said that they have been observing CTG allied leftleaning organizations (LLOs) in their school for some time since before the COVID-19 pandemic. He shared his experience that prevented a specific LLO to infiltrate by applying for school accreditation and recognition. “They are already out there, we will ensure to observe their movements. Officially, they will not be recognized because no teacher would want to become their advisers. Thus, we are very supportive of this initiative and we understand why the President executed the EO70. We are 101 percent supportive because we want to save our nation,” Penaso explained.

problem issues and the use of social media inviting students for agitation and indoctrination. “Despite our accomplishments, the snowball of surrenders and significantly reducing their manpower, the CTG still exist because of their resources. This includes their continuous recruitment focusing now with the youth. Hence, we need to engage the key officials of schools who are unwittingly used as platform for recruitment. We need the permission and cooperation of schools to have a united sentiment against the CTG and their continuous deceptive recruitment,” Licudine bared.

After which, other member Meanwhile, BGen. Licudine agencies discussed their provided a brief overview mandated task and of the 402Bde campaign expressed full commitment that focuses on two main and support to end local efforts: the recruitment and communist armed conflict. extortion scheme of the Col. Peji of 15RCDG talked CTG. He then underscored about strengthening the the EO70 where ROTC and Reservist program government agencies are to instill nationalism and working together as the vital patriotism among students key piece against the CTG while PLtCol Lumacang of infiltration to all sectors. PRO13 presented the salient points of PNP’s Kabataan He added that there is a Kontra Droga at Terorismo need for mass education (KKDAT) program as among and information as the avenues that would the CTGs have utilized strengthen effort against several ways to recruit CTG recruitment in the students or youths such as school. preying on the student’s vulnerabilities particularly Also, one of the highlights poverty-related and family in the dialogue was the

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message of Director Guerta of DILG Butuan City who committed the CHED’s support with SAKM cluster in organizing advocacy activities for the students and teachers and the Capacitating Urban Community for Peace and Development (CUCPD) that will address sectoral infiltration of the CTG. Likewise, Dir. Calagui of CHED Caraga also extended her support to the SAKM cluster in engaging key officials and pursue any efforts to prevent CTG recruitment in the universities and colleges. She raised several possible mechanisms and strategies that would prevent students to join CTG allied left leaning organizations. “I would support any of these efforts because the environment of academic community will be at stake if these things are happening inside the school. CHED is very supportive, we wanted our graduates to reach their goals as they can be the leaders of our country,” Dir. Calagui added. The dialogue ended with the commitment and support from CSU president particularly in allowing IECs inside CSU campus and for future undertakings towards preventing CTG youth recruitment in their school. (CMO officer, 402nd Brigade/ PIA-Caraga)

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RTWPB Caraga conducts training on biz continuity planning The Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) Caraga in coordination with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Caraga recently conducted a Training on Business Continuity Planning and Management, here. The said activity was conducted in four batches, two sessions in the morning participated by 19 establishments and two sessions in the afternoon participated by 15 establishments aimed to give relevant ideas and inputs on how to drive businesses into more productive and bounce back as resilient industries during this New Normal. Earl D. Dela Victoria, Board Secretary VI, discussed the productivity toolbox said that their agency provides different productivity programs Caraga INFOCUS

and services to help establishments improve businesses and enhance workers to be more competitive, quality conscious and serviceoriented. Also, the Business Continuity Planning and Management was discussed by Sara Mae Cassion-Dahuyla. She emphasized the objective and importance of Business Continuity Plan. “To help businesses mitigate disruption and unlock workforce productivity, Business Continuity Plan must be adopted and applied,” she said.

Dahuyla also said that it is important to plan and prepare not only for events that will stop functions completely but for those that also have the potential to adversely impact services or functions. During the event, participants were given time to fill up the intended forms in preparation for their individual/respective firms as their own Business Continuity Plan and are encouraged to avail of the other free programs and services of RTWPB. (RTWPB Caraga/PIA Caraga) May 29-June 4, 2021 |

Caraga agri-fishery sector joins in peace, dev’t conference In achieving peace and sustainable development through a holistic approach, representatives of the six sectors under the Sectoral Unification, CapacityBuilding Empowerment and Mobilization Cluster (SUCBEM) of the Caraga Regional Task Force on Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTFELCAC) convened on May 31-June 1 for the Regional Conference on Peace and Development. The SUCBEM is one of the 12 clusters of the RTFELCAC which include the identified sectors such as the farmer-fisherfolk, indigenous peoples, labor, peasant, youth, and women. In support of the event, the Department of Agriculture (DA) – Caraga, together with the farmers and fisherfolk representatives, take part in the discussion of the issues and concerns that needs action and may serve as the basis

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for the priority plans and programs of the government. DA-Caraga Regional Executive Director Abel James I. Monteagudo explains the importance of the event taking into consideration that the region has a high insurgency rate, wherein 191 barangays are identified as geographically isolated, disadvantaged, and conflict-affected areas (GIDCAs). “It is significant to organize a platform for advocacy and concerns of the farmer-fisherfolk sector to effectively address gaps in governance that may provide policy

recommendations and viable interventions,” said Monteagudo. The conference is organized by the National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC) in coordination with the DA and other government agencies such as the Department of Agrarian Reform, Department of Labor and Employment, National Commission for Indigenous Peoples, Department of Social Welfare and Development, National Youth Commission, and the Department of Interior and Local Government as the lead agency in the wholeof-nation approach for peace and development. (DA-RFO XIII, RAFIS/PIACaraga) Caraga INFOCUS

RPAB approves 6 proposals for prioritization run in Caraga By Zenny G. Awing

A glimmer of hope shines in the local government units (LGU) of Caraga after the Regional Project Advisory Board (RPAB) approved the endorsement of the six additional subprojects for the prioritization run under the DA-Philippine Rural Development Project Additional Financing (DAPRDP-AF). amounting to P184M. This would benefit 9,142 After the presentation residents including 308 IPs of documents proving who farm rice, coconut, that the projects were corn, soybeans, and suitable and essential abaca. in the area, the local government units (LGUs) For LGU San Agustin, the of Tago, San Agustin, proposed Construction and Cantilan Surigao of Buhisan-Manumnum del Sur, Bayugan City, FMR amounting to P84M provincial government will be the lone road of Agusan del Sur, and in the area of Buatong Placer, Surigao del Norte, and Buhisan. The 3,226 received a resounding residents who primarily YES from members of the farm rice, lanzones, RPAB. abaca, banana, and root crops will generally The LGU of Tago benefit from the said proposed the concreting project. If realized, the of Kinabigtasan-Lindoy project would reduce FMR with Concrete Bridge hauling costs, save travel Caraga INFOCUS

time, and increase the traffic rate in the area. Likewise, the concreting of Mahapag-BucacMarcelina FMR proposed by the Province of Agusan del Sur having a 4.79km distance worth P60M will cover a 2,712-hectare influence area. The road will make life easier for rubber, rice, coconut, and banana farmers since the FMR will reduce 10% transportation cost and 50% travel time. From land to sea, Placer, SDN advocates the establishment of the 30 Ton Ice plant with an Ice Storage Facility May 29-June 4, 2021 |

Department of Agrarian Reform, Department of Public Works and Highways, Mindanao Development Authority, National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, and Department of the Interior and Local Government deliberately clarified the intentions and importance of the proposals to the amounting to P58.4 to encouraging sustainable community. support their Tuna industry. fishing. It would then The LGU ranks 1st in the benefit 1,380 fisherfolks. Despite the intense landing sites of tuna with deliberations, the RPAB an annual production Lastly, Barangay Tinago chaired by DA Caraga estimate of 10,116.43mt. of Cantilan raised that Regional Executive Such produce made a the water system in the Director Abel James I. high demand to process community should be Monteagudo signed the and commercialize their improved since it can resolutions approving tuna. With this, the P30M only serve 7 households the subprojects under worth additional ice plant out of the 243 homes. the Intensified Buildingwould help them in Tuna Moreover, this would Up of Infrastructure and preservation. help uplift the lifestyle Logistics for Development of the predominant (I-BUILD) component for A fishery proposal is also coconut farmers in the endorsement to the DAproposed by Cantilan community. The water PRDP National Project with the construction of system amounts to P9M. Coordination Office the three units of Watch for further evaluation. Tower costing P17M. Careful deliberation If approved, the The alarming overfishing subprojects will receive and climate change Members of the RPAB, a No Objection Letter issues pushed the LGU namely: the Department 1 (NOL1) which would to come up with the of Environment and indicate that the project project. Cantilan also Natural Resources, has been funded and envisioned alleviating Regional Agricultural should proceed to the and improve the average and Fishery Council, implementation of the living condition of the Department of subproject. (DA-PRPD13/ fisherfolk-beneficiaries by Trade and Industry, PIA Caraga)

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Caraga INFOCUS

DA chief directs BSWM to set up modern soil laboratories By Adones Buhayan

Photo by: Adones Buhayan, DA-AFID

Through the recently approved National Soil Health Program with P523.575 million funding, Agriculture Secretary William Dar directed the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM) to set up modern and efficient national and regional soil laboratories.

1) institutionalizing national soil monitoring and rejuvenation program; 2) soil health monitoring through mobile soils laboratory; 3) strengthening of partnerships with various stakeholders; and 4) production and improvement in soil analysis.

The National Soil Health Program to be implemented in 2021– 2023 by the BSWM has four project components:

Since his return as DA chief, Secretary Dar has been advocating for the National Soil Health Program and rainwater

Caraga INFOCUS

harvesting that will address concerns on crop productivity and water availability as soil and water are crucial elements in agriculture. Secretary Dar congratulated the BSWM for the 70 years of service and for taking the lead in the Asian Soil Partnership Governance for 2021-2023. He also attended the anniversary celebration of the BSWM on June 2, 2021. (DAAFID/PIA-Caraga) May 29-June 4, 2021 |

Farmers, fisherfolks receive deep-sea fishing livelihood grant from DOLE Antonio A. Petallar, encouraged the association members to take care of the livelihood grant.

The Barangay San Jose Farmers and Fisherfolks Association (BSJFFA) had recently received its livelihood grant under the Department of Labor and Employment Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP).

Mr. Verlan Diaz, outgoing DOLE PDISO Provincial Head reminded the officers and members of the association to be well-equipped in terms of business management to ensure the success of their livelihood.

The DOLE-Province of Dinagat Satellite Office (DOLE PDISO) conducted the turn-over ceremony of two fishing boats, nets, and other fishing gears for the Deep-Sea Fishing Livelihood project worth Php332,230.00 to BSJFFA, an association composed of 46 members of Brgy. San Jose, Cagdianao, Province of Dinagat Islands.

“Manghinaot kami nga kini nga proyekto mouswag, mulambo ug inyong ampingan. Mao nga maghimu kamu ug business manager, nga unta magschedule kaninyo kung kanus-a kani gamiton ug kung kanus-a kani dili. Kay negosyo ni, negosyo nga kamu ang magpalambo (We hope that this project will develop and become sustainable. It would be better if you will assign a business manager to manage and schedule when to utilize the boats so that it will not easily get damage),” Diaz said.

Aside from the officers and members of BSJFFA, the ceremony was also attended by Municipal Mayor of Cagdianao Hon. Adolfo Longos; LGU-Cagdianao PESO Manager Salome Pegoro; and the barangay officials.

| May 29-June 4, 2021

Also, BSJFFA President

“Kini nga proyekto nga gihatag sa ato atimanon nato. Dili laong nga napura na, jaon na mag-atindir, kun dili kita tanan. Kita tanan ang responsibilidad aton nga project. Para mani sab sa atong karajawan, para mani sa atong pamilya. So, ato ipasalig sa ila kuman nga ato ampingan, ato atimanon. Nga ipakita nato sa ila nga magmalambuon kita. Ipakita nato nga nagpadayon ug milambo kita nan project nga gihatag sa ato. Masipo kita sa ila kung mapakyas kita nan pagpalambo ani nga proyekto (We must take care of this livelihood grant. Not just the officials, but all 46 members must take responsibility so that this project will be manage well. We must show to our community that we are successful with this. This is not just for us, but also for our family and community),” he underscored. The BSJFFA is the first association in Brgy. San Jose that received a livelihood assistance in DOLE. (DOLECaraga/PIA-Caraga)

Caraga INFOCUS

DSWD, IJM equip frontliners handling online sexual exploitation cases In light of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, protecting the children has never been more emphasized. Within this context, the International Justice Mission (IJM) and the Justice Peace and Integrity of Creation (JPIC) had recently supervised a weeklong online Video In-Depth Interview (VIDI) training to frontliners handling cases of Online Sexual Exploitation of Children (OSEC), with full support from the Recovery and Reintegration Program for Trafficked Persons (RRPTP) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga VIDI aims to uphold the best interest of children by protecting them from potential re-traumatization. Other objectives in the conducted training include (1) Understanding underlying policies in investigating and prosecuting OSEC cases; (2) Admissibility of VIDIs under the law in the context of the COVID-19 Pandemic; (3) Guiding principles in conducting forensic interviews to children; (4) Practice skills in conducting a forensic interview of children in accordance with trauma informed standards and

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admissibility requirements under the law; and (5) Obtain stakeholders’ insight and perspective on the use of VIDIs and other child protective measures. VIDI was further discussed as a recorded “inquiry or proceeding conducted by duly trained members of a multidisciplinary team or representatives of law enforcement or child protective services for the purpose of determining whether child abuse has been committed.” In layman’s term, the VIDI will serve as the evidence in lieu of the live victim’s testimony during the trial. Through this, the victim may need not to testify live during the trial and face the perpetrators once more. Studies have confirmed that these court appearances cause anxiety, re-

traumatization and revictimization on the children’s part. Hence, VIDI is considered as an effective alternative measure to protect children against fear of having to face their abusers again. The training was participated by law enforcers from Women and Children Protection Desk (WCPD), DSWD and LGU Social Workers who conduct assessment and interviews of children regarding any reported abuse including OSEC cases, as well as public prosecutors who utilize VIDI as evidence. One of the highlights in the training was the mock interview session where participants experienced court hearings using actual OSEC cases that once utilized VIDI as a prosecution strategy. (DSWD-Caraga/PIACaraga)

May 29-June 4, 2021 |

KALAHI-CIDSS Caraga launches subproject locator mobile app

To answer the growing demand for digitalization, the Regional Program Management Office (RPMO) of KALAHI-CIDSS launched on Monday, May 24, 2021, its new mobile application that allows users to track and access information of any sub-projects implemented by the program in Caraga region.

| May 29-June 4, 2021

On Monday’s virtual convocation and launching of the app, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga OIC-Regional Director Ramel F. Jamen and KALAHI-CIDSS Deputy National Program Manager Ma. Consuelo Acosta representing Director Janet Armas, commended the Field Office especially the

RPMO for the said innovation. “It is with gladness that I commend the efforts of DSWD Caraga for developing a way to digitalize our efforts to deliver uncompromised solutions. The KALAHICIDSS Program Resource Online/Offline Locator Mobile App is among our solutions to tackle the challenges ahead of us. Caraga INFOCUS

as fix issues to ensure smooth usability of the app. KALAHI-CIDSS or the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services is one of the poverty alleviation programs of the government being implemented by the DSWD.

Not that it only provides creative solutions to our logistical challenges but it is also a smart answer to the growing demand of digitalization,” said Acosta. “In an era of digitalization, this free and innovative tool offers an efficient and smart solution to challenges that come our way. The power is literally in your hands because the information and data is within your reach. In one QR code scan, you’ll get a Caraga INFOCUS

The KC Caraga PRO (Program Resource Online/Offline) Locator Mobile App is built to help users search and navigate subprojects, Ramel F. Jamen whether online or offline, glimpse of what’s in store with the use of mapping technology. for you. Data gathering is more accessible Users can search and now more than ever. filter by province, This product of sheer ingenuity, creativity, and municipality, barangay, or even passion is a testament year a subproject was of DSWD Caraga and implemented. KALAHI-CIDSS to deliver no less than what the people deserve,” Acosta The application could also provide a summary added. of sub-project data and detailed breakdown per Currently, the RPMO’s province and modality team who developed and allow users to view the mobile app is information, location, working double-time to and updated photos add features that allow of subprojects. (DSWDusers to upload photos of the subproject as well Caraga/PIA-Caraga) May 29-June 4, 2021 |

PESO institutionalization: For better public employment service empowered and effective.

With the drive of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to promote stronger employment facilitation, DOLE Surigao del Sur Provincial Office (SDSPO) continues to encourage Local Government Units (LGUs) in the province to institutionalize their respective Public Employment Service Offices (PESO). Just recently, the DOLESDSPO together with DOLE Caraga Assistant Regional Director Naomi Lyn Abellana, attended the regular session of Sangguniang Bayan Members of Bislig City and discussed the Salient Features of Republic Act 10691 otherwise known as “An act defining the role of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE),

| May 29-June 4, 2021

the Local Government Units (LGUs), and accredited Nongovernment Organization (NGOs) in the establishment and operation of the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) and the operation of Job Placement Offices in Educational Institutions (Els), amending sections 3, 5, 6, 7 and 9 of RA 8759 otherwise known as PESO Act of 1999.” Strengthening and institutionalization the role of PESO was one of the highlights discussed. PESO, as an employment service facility of the government, is tasked to ensure prompt, timely, and efficient delivery of employment services under the supervision of the LGU and the technical support of DOLE. Its institutionalization will enable the office to become more

ARD Abellana emphasized to explain the benefits of PESO institutionalization to Bislig City. “The institutionalization of PESO can help you craft new ordinances. For instance, PESO can require the establishment to submit Job Vacancies report before they can renew their permits. This can help the LGU create a directory of vacant jobs available in the city,” she said. During the same activity, Laine S. Elechicon, the PESO Manager-designate was commended for her exemplary efforts to multifunction in managing PESO effectively as she also takes the role of the Information Officer of the city. At the end of the session, Hon. David Salazar, as well as other SB members supported to DOLE’s encouragement to institutionalize PESO Bislig City. A total of 19 PESOs are expected to be institutionalized in Surigao del Sur after DOLE’s intensive campaign of PESO institutionalization among LGUs. (DOLE-Caraga/PIACaraga)

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OIE endorses program to control dog-mediated rabies The endorsement of the Philippines’ DogMediated Rabies Program by the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) on May 27, 2021 certifies that the country’s protocol is in line with international standards. This is a significant achievement of the Philippines in its continuous efforts to eradicate rabies from the local dog and cat ensure our pets are population by 2030. properly vaccinated against rabies,” said “We therefore Bureau of Animal invite the general Industry (BAI), an public and pet attached agency of owners to support the Department of the government’s Agriculture. program on the control of this deadly but preventable viral disease. Let us keep in mind to Caraga INFOCUS

BAI said the certification was an outcome of the joint efforts of the

DA, Department of Health, Department of Education, Department of the Interior and Local Government, local government units, non-government organizations, the academe and private sector to fight rabies. (DA-BAI/PIACaraga) May 29-June 4, 2021 |

Pagbansay sa mga negosyanteng mag-uuma kabahin sa BEST game training, gihingusgan sa LGU Butuan Gihingusgang mapahigayon sa syudad sa Butuan pinaagi sa City Agriculturist Office ang training workshop kabahin sa Business Expenses Saving Training kun BEST Game Training nga nagtudlo kabahin sa mga pamaagi sa saktong pagdumala sa negosyo, savings ug expenses sa matag negosyante nga mga mag-uuma. “Ang ikaduhang workshop nga atong gipahigayon ang kadtong BEST game training ang atong gipaapil niini nga workshop is kadto nang hugpong or association, peoples organization, cooperative nga nakatake off na sa ilang enterprise nag focus ang two-day training nga best game training sa pagtudlo unsaon ang pagbalansi sa negosyo, sa savings ug ilang expenses pinaagi sa simulation games pinaagi niini ilang mabalansi ang pagtuyok sa kapital,unsay benefits sa kinatibuk-an organization kong padak-an nila ilang savings or unsa pod benipisyo sa ilang grupo kong padakan ilang expenses,” sumala

| May 29-June 4, 2021

ni Engr. Pierre Anthony Joven, hepe sa City Agriculturist Office. Naglaum si Engr. Joven nga sa duha ka adlaw’ng workshop ug training madasig ang mga maguumang negosyante pinaagi usab sa ilang mga kaagi sa pagdumala ug pagbalanse sa negosyo, savings ug expenses diin makabenipisyo niini ang hugpong ug komunidad. Ang nasangpit nga aktibidad alayon usab sa short-term goal nga mapalambu ang kapasidad sa mga mag-uuma ug mapalapad sab ang ilang kapasidad isip usa usab ka negosyante. Sumala ni Evangeline Magtibay, Presidente sa De Oro Agrarian Reform Benificiary CooperativeDARBCO, daku og tabang ang pagbansay tungod matudluan nga maplastar ang negosyo. “Ang among naantiguhan kay sa best practice nga ilang gihatag nga business expense training seminar dili diay dautan nga mangutang kung nangarap

ka nga muincome pa more ang imong organizations or any coop organizations,” sumala pa niya. “Kami naunder mi sa savings so savings lang mi wala siyay income tungod kay wala naglihok ang kwarta. Ang kami sa group 3 among lantaw sa kinabuhi kay para dili mi magapos pero at the end diay sa among kapital nga 200k niginansya rami og gamay ang ending nilugi pami kay naa paman diay rental nga 100k naa pay reject sa product nga among gibaligya ang ending nagnegative mi ang among nakuha ani nga pagtulun-an dili masama ang mangutang to have more kapital kay kong dako ang kapital dako pod ang income kay makaikot man gyod ang business,” dugang pa ni Magtibay. Ang training naglangkob sab sa pagtudlo sa pagsugod og negosyo, unsay business nga sudlan, planning, pilay ikapital na sudlan sa negosyo, pilay ginansyahon ug pila dapat manpower sa pag abri og negosyo. (Butuan City PIO/PIA Agusan del Norte)

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Ordinansa sa Butuan City Mental Health Care and Wellness Coordinating Aprobado na ang ordinansa mahitungod sa Butuan City Mental Health Care and Wellness Coordinating Council nga gipangunahan ni Konsehal Cherry May Busa sa Committee on Health. Katuyoan sa nasangpit nga ordinansa nga mahatagan og igong pagtagad ang mga indibidwal nga adunay mental health issue sa syudad. Ang City Mental Health Care and Wellness Coordinating Council maoy mahimung responsable sa paghatag sa makanunayon, rasyonal, ug nagkahiusa nga tubag sa problema sa mental health. Lakip na usab nga matagaan og tubag ang mga concerns ug ang pagmugna sa mental health care program. Gitumong sa ordinansa ang pagpatuman og mga guidelines ug pagpagawas og mekanismo sa lokal nga level. Ang konseho ang mag ugmad og dekalidad nga mental health care programs pinaagi sa pag develop sa sakto ug epektibo nga istruktura, sistema ug mekanismo nga magsiguro ang husto, accessible, barato, angay, episyente, ug epektibo nga paghatag sa mental health care sa mga tawo nga nanginahanglan niini. Ang kunseho ang: •Magmasubli ug magpormula

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ang palisiya ug guidelines sa mental health issues ug concerns; •Pag develop sa tigman ug inklusibo nga plano ug programa sa mental health; •Pag palig-on sab sa koleksyon sa datos sa mga kaso, pagpahigayon sa regular monitoring, ug ebalwasyon agig suporta sa policy formulation ug planning sa mental health; •Pag promote ug pag pasilitar sa mga sector alang sa development ug implementation sa mental health iglabot sa mga programa sa mga ilawom sa sector niini; •Paghatag sa kinatibukang technical supervision ug sa pagsiguro sa pagsunod sa palisiya, programa, ug proyekto sulod sa comprehensive framework sa City Mental Health Care Delivery System ug sa ubang aktibedades kalabutan sa implementasyon niining oridinansa, pinaagi sa pag review sa mental health services, sa pagsunod sa balaud, ug ubang remedies gikan sa balaud. •Pagplano ug pag implementa sa mga gikinahanglan ug dali nga capacity building, reorientation, ug training programs para sa tanang mental health professionals, mental health workers, ug

allied professionals basi na niining ordinansa. •Pagsubli sa balaud nga may kalabutan sa mental health ug sa rekomendar nga balaudnon nga maoy musestenar ug magpalig-on sa mga programa, serbisyo, ug uban pang mental initiatives; •Pagbuhat sa inter-agency committees, project task forces, ug uban pang grupo nga kinahanglan sa pagimplementa sa mga palisiya ug programa sa kini nga ordinansa; ug •Pagbuhat sa ubang trabaho ug kalihokan nga kinahanglan sa pagpatuman sa katuyoan aning ordinansa. Subay sa Republic Act No. 11036 o ang The Mental Health Act kini nag hatag og sukdanan sa tanang Pilipino mahitungod sa mental health lakip na sab ang fundamental right sa mga tawo nga nanginahanglan og serbisyo sa mental health. Ang Butuan City Mental Health Care and Wellness Coordinating Council ang mahimong paagi aron makabuhat og maka dugang sa mga angay nga buhaton sa pagtabang sa katawhan sa syudad aron matagaan og pansin og tubag ang mga nag lisud nga indibidwal sa ilang mental health. (Butuan PIO/PIA Agusan del Norte)

May 29-June 4, 2021 |

Enhanced leadership ug basic bookeeping, gitudlo sa mga farmer leaders ug opisyales sa mga asosasyon ug kooperatiba Gibansay sa City Agriculturist Office ang mga farmer leaders ug mga opisyales sa mga kooperatiba ug asosasyon sa syudad kabahin na sa Enhanced Leadership and Basic Bookeeping. Sumala ni City Agriculturist Engr. Pierre Anthony Joven gisiguro sa ilang opisina nga ma imbitahan ang mga Farmer leaders, officers sa farmers association nga bag-o pa nagsugod aron matabangan sila nga mapalambo ang ilang leadership skills ug mamahimung maayo ang ilang pagdala sa organisasyon. “Alayon sa short term goal sa dakbayan sa Butuan didto sa agriculture and fisheries sector atong

| May 29-June 4, 2021

gipanghingusgan nga maimproved ang competency ug entrepreneurial capacity sa atong farmers fisherfolks and associations nagpahigayon ang City Agriculturist Office training its a 2-day its about leadership and basic bookkeeping training,” sumala ni Engr. Joven.

sa kwarta, importante gyod na kaayo kay ma personal man, asosasyon o negosyo daghan makat-onan,” sumala pa ni Mentoda. Dugang ni Mentoda sa iyang asosasyon dunay transparensiya nakalista ang tanang mugawas nga kwarta.

Sa ikaduhang session sa pagbansay gitudlo ang simple bookeeping isip mga bag-o pang Alang sa presidente nagsugod sa asosasyon, sa Malalag Bancasi gitudluan sab ang Irrigators Association mga partisipante sa nga si Lucia Mentoda pagplastar sa ilang taga Barangay gamay nga income Libertad daku kini og ug expenses. Gisiguro tabang ang training sa mga asosasyon nga sa iyang pagdumala dunay transparensiya sa asosasyon labina ang matag hugpong dunay 47 ka myembro sa tungod kung dunay asosasyon. “Okay gyod transparensiya makuha kaayo, nindot siya kaayo sab sa grupo ang kay daghan kaayo mig pagsalig sa mga nakat-onan labi na myembro sa grupo. (Butuan City PIO/PIA) bahin sa pagmanage Caraga INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Surigao del Norte PPO implements ‘barangayanihan’ program By Venus L. Garcia

With the impacts of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) that keep devastating the lives and livelihood globally, the Surigao del Norte Provincial Police Office (SDN-PPO) is advancing the ‘Barangayanihan Help’ or ‘Bayanihan’ in barangays and food bank. It aims to help the communities especially now that heightened restrictions are imposed with the implementation of the modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ) in Surigao City and other municipalities within Surigao del Norte province. Recipients can avail of the food and nonfood items such as rice, coffee, milk, sugar, vegetables, eggs, canned goods, noodles, soaps, and other essential goods that

| May 29-June 4, 2021

could help in supporting the daily needs of a family. “Barangayanihan is part of the police community program that would enhance the bayanihan spirit of helping one another especially this time of COVID-19. Ang hangarin ng proyektong ito ay paigtingin ng inyong kapulisan ang iba’t ibang paraan ng pagbibigay ng tulong sa ating community,” said PCol. Noel C. Espinoza, provincial director of the

Surigao del Norte PPO. According to Espinoza, the said program also aims to encourage other stakeholders to voluntarily take part in giving assistance to fellow citizens. “Sa ngayon, mayroon na po tayong naitalang 176 na barangayaihin actvities na ginawa ng iba’t ibang police station na nassakupan ng Suriao del Norte PPO sa buwan lamang po ng Mayo at mayroon naring Caraga INFOCUS

3,036 na natulongan ng programa,” said PCol. Espinoza. The police troops also distributed leaflets on anti-terrorism and vaccination against COVID-19 to provide additional knowledge to the public. The Barangayanihan covers all police community relations support activities and underscores the Philippine National Police (PNP) motto which is “to serve and protect.”

resident of barangay Punta Bilar, Surigao City. Meanwhile, Surigao del Norte PPO appeals to the Surigaonons to continue helping the police authorities; follow the health protocols; and to stay at home to prevent the spread of the virus. “Umasa po kayo na ang inyong kapulisan sa

buong Surigao del Norte ay laging handa at patuloy na tatangkilikin ang mga programa para matulungan ang ating mga kababayan lalo na ngayong apektado ang lahat sa pandemya. Patuloy pa tayo sa pagsunod sa itinakdang curfew hours nang sa ganun ay hindi po tayo malagay sa alangaanin. Umasa po kayo na patuloy po ang pamimigay namin ng mga alcohol at face masks,” said PCol Espinoza. At present, police officers are deployed to render service at the designated checkpoints and continue with the monitoring and enforcement of laws. (VLG/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

“Nagpapasalamat po kami dahil sa gitna ng kahirapang tinatamasa naming ngayon dulot ng pandemya ay nabigyan pa rin kami tulong. Salamat karajaw!” said Luzviminda Anario, Caraga INFOCUS

May 29-June 4, 2021 |

Surigao Norte LGU, NHA ink MOA for Mamanwa housing project By Susil D. Ragas

The local government unit (LGU) of San Francisco and the National Housing Authority (NHA) have recently signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the construction of the Mamanwa tribal village. According to Mayor Val P. Pinat, the LGU has bought a 1. 5-hectare land to be developed as a housing project for the Mamanwa tribal community. He bared that around 86 Mamanwa families will benefit from the said housing project that will be given to them for free by the government. Mayor Pinat said the Mamanwa tribe comprises 10 percent of the total population of San Francisco town and they are the most vulnerable group among the constituents, “that is why we prioritized them.” “We have already worked out with the

| May 29-June 4, 2021

Contributed photo

National Housing Authority on the said housing project. We have also processed the needed requirements so that the money will soon be downloaded to the LGU and then we can proceed immediately with the construction,” Mayor Pinat said. He said that aside from the Mamanwa tribal village, the LGU has also donated space to different national line agencies such as the Bureau of Fire Protection for its Camp Saro office, the provincial office of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, 1st Company of the PNP-

Provincial Mobile Force, and the Police Regional Maritime Office. “Our LGU is a 5th class municipality with an almost one-manned office. We really need the help of the national offices. If the provincial or regional offices are located near or much better within the municipal jurisdiction, so the response or assistance will be quick and easy. With the influx of people, it will result in more economic activities and increase livelihood,” Mayor Pinat added. (DILG-San Francisco (Anao-aon)/PIA-Surigao del Norte) Caraga INFOCUS

Commit to Quit: Nagkakaisang Pilipino para sa ‘NO Yosi’ Ang sigarilyo ay lason sa katawan ng tao. Maraming sakit ang dulot ng patuloy na paninigarilyo. Lalo na sa panahon ng COVID-19 pandemya, higit na pinalala ng sigarilyo at adiksyon nito ang tama ng virus sa ating katawan at kalusugan. “Mamamatay ka sa paninigarilyo na walang kaakibat na responsibilidad ang industry ng tabako na nagbebenta ng masamang produktong ito.‘Nilalason ng sigarilyo pati ang ating kapaligiran, ang lupa, dagat, hangin, at ang ating mga komunidad at pamahayanan,” banggit ni Ka Ernesto Ofracio, president ng Aktibong Kilusan Tungo sa Iisang Bayan (AKTIB). Ngayong araw, Mayo 31, ipagdiriwang natin ang World No Tobacco Day. Ang panawagan natin ay Commit to Quit: Nagkakaisang Pilipino para sa NO Yosi! Buong araw ang Caraga INFOCUS

ihinandang programa na pinagtulungang i-organisa ng Department of Health (DOH), Department of Education (DepEd), at iba pang ahensya ng pamahalaan, katuwang ang iba’t ibang barangay, civil society organizations at people’s organization sa ilalim ng Philippine Smoke-Free Movement (PSFM).

26 na nilagdaan ni Presidente Duterte o ang pagbabawal ng paninigarilyo sa lahat ng pampublikong lugar at sasakyan, at isabatas ang Smoke-Free Act sa lalung madaling panahon.

Bilang paghahanda, ang SWP at AKTIB ay kasalukuyang nagiikot sa iba’t ibang barangay at komunidad Nagbalangkas ng upang hikayatin ang programa ang Philippine mamamayan na itigil Rural Reconstruction ang paninigarilyo at Movement (PRRM), AKTIB, proteksyunan ang PUP SPEAK, Sustainable ating mga kabataan at Development Network pamayanan, nagtatayo Solutions (SDSN-Youth), ng mga smoke-free ImagineLaw, at iba homes, smoke-free pa para linawin ang communities, at smokekonsepto ng smokefree barangays. free at ang masamang Ang lahat ay epekto ng sigarilyo at iba inaanyayahang pang produktong tabako lumahok sa May 31 sa ating kalusugan at World No Tobacco Day. kapaligiran. Mapapanood ang selebrasyon na ito sa sa Ang PSFM ay kilusan Department of Health ng mamamayan na (DOH), Department of pinangangasiwaan ng Education, at Philippine SWP upang itaguyod Smoke-Free Movement ang mahigpit na (PSFM) FaceBook Live. pagpapatupad (Social Watch Philippines/ ng Executive Order PIA-Surigao del Norte) May 29-June 4, 2021 |

Pinakaunang search, rescue base sa bansa pinasinayaan ng PCG By Venus L. Garcia

Pinasinayaan ng Philippine Coast Guard ang kauna-unahang search and rescue base sa bansa na itinatag sa tinaguriang world-class tourist destination ng Pilipinas sa General Luna, Siargao Island. Ang 600 square meters at four-storey building ng Coast Guard base sa Siargao ay itinayo sa 5,000-square meter lot na idinonate ng lokal na pamahalaan ng Surigao del Norte sa pamumuno ni Gobernador Francisco

| May 29-June 4, 2021

“Lalo” Matugas. Maliban sa watch tower, helipad, at elevated base defense zone, ito ay equipped rin ng automatic identification system o AIS monitoring equipment upang masiguro ang maritime safety. Ayon kay admiral George Ursabia, Jr., commandant ng Philippine Coast Guard, magandang oportunidad anya ito para sa mga skilled na

residente na maging bagong recruit at miyembro ng PCG at makapagbigay serbisyo sa publiko. Dagdag pa ni admiral Ursabia, dalawa o tatlong units ng fast patrol boats ang itatalaga sa PCS Base Siargao para palakasin pa lalo ang maritime law enforcement at disaster management. Ang nasabing bagong imprastaktura ay magsilbi ring Caraga INFOCUS

could now probably say that with the Coast Guard in the frontline, we could promote a safe and secure Siargao Island,” Wenceslao furthered.

radar station upang mapangalagaan ang isla at vicinity waters nito laban sa iligal, unreported, at unregulated fishing.

command control; and most especially we could timely respond to maritime incidents and when in height of natural disasters and calamities,” Wenceslao John M. Wenceslao, station commander of the Coast Guard Station Siargao.

“We are so much thankful mainly because with this new search and rescue base we could effectively discharge our mandates; deliver quality “With this new search service; have effective and rescue base, we

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Kasabay rin sa inagurasyon ay ang donning at oath taking ni Surigao del Norte first district representative Francisco Jose “Bingo” Matugas II bilang auxiliary commodore ng PCG Auxiliary Executive Squadron. Anya, bilang miyembro ng house committee on public order and safety, patuloy ang kanyang suporta sa mga programa ng PCG. (VLG/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

May 29-June 4, 2021 |

PPO Surigao Norte joins simultaneous launching of ‘Brigada Estasyon’ The Police Provincial Office (PPO) of Surigao del Norte joined the simultaneous launching of the Police Regional Office (PRO) 13 Program dubbed as, “Brigada Estasyon” through a virtual meeting led by Provincial Director Police Colonel Noel C. Espinoza on May 22, 2021 held at the Surigao del Norte PPO ground, this city. PCol. Espinoza together with the 120 personnel of Surigao del Norte Police Provincial Office conducted intensified cleanliness program such as wiping of windows and corridors, deodorizing comfort rooms, organizing tables, and uprooting of unwanted grasses.

police stations/precincts, camps, offices, detachments must be clean and presentable. The activity is in line with PRO 13 in compliance the intensified cleanliness with the said directive policy of the Philippine came up with a project National Police chief dubbed as “Brigada General Guillermo Estasyon.” Lorenzo T. Eleazar that all “I encourage our

| May 29-June 4, 2021

personnel to maintain the orderliness and cleanliness of the camp/ offices. This will not only create a healthier environment but we will be more productive and efficient,” PCol. Espinoza said. (PPO-SDN/PIASurigao del Norte) Caraga INFOCUS

Agusan del Norte raises Code Blue status due to TS Dante By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales

The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) of the province of Agusan del Norte has raised a blue alert status as the entire province and the rest of Caraga Region experience heavy rains due to Tropical Storm Dante (Choi-wan).

This, as confirmed at 11:30am of Tuesday, June 1, 2021, by PDRRMO Research and Planning Development Chief Merry Chris Cabonce during an interview with PIA Caraga. Residents of Barangays Panaytayon and Humilog in the municipality of Remedios T. Romualdes (RTR) are now evacuating as well as over 60 families in Barangay Bayabas in Cabadbaran City due to flash floods. Fifteen others were reportedly also affected in Brgy. La Fraternidad in Tubay but the Municipal DRRMO is yet to verify. “On-going pa kasi ang response actions na ginagawa ng mga municipal DRRM offices. We’re constantly coordinating with them ngayon for further updates

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on the said status,” Cabonce said.

Water levels have also declined in the national highway passing the municipality of Tubay in Brgy. Tagmamarkay, which was reportedly impassable as of 9:00am on Tuesday.

convened virtually for continuous monitoring in light of the restrictions in mobility. Cabonce said the PDRRMO has also prepositioned its resources to augment LGUs in need. Respective EOCs of all LGUs are on standby and can be contacted 24/7.

Close monitoring is still being made by local DRRMOs in Despite all the preparations affected areas. made by local authorities, the disaster response officer Disaster response emphasized the need for the public to be vigilant and Heavy rains have started listen to local authorities. pouring on the evening of Monday, May 31, prompting “Magsubaybay sa mga the operation centers of all paligid. Also, adhere to 11 local government units in warnings coming from our the province to activate by local government officials. then and have begun their Kung mayroong mga monitoring. Resources and preemptive evacuation, relief goods have already magparticipate po tayo. been prepositioned in case Regularly monitor updates of emergency. from our social media accounts and those On Tuesday, field monitoring provided by radio stations on river tributaries is kasi kahit hindi tayo directly now being made with affected ng bagyong ito, rising water levels being kailangang magmasid pa observed. Other LGUs that rin at maghanda para sa were not affected by heavy mga emergencies,” she rainfall are also monitoring said. their area, especially those near the coast. New updates will be provided by the PDRRMO at The emergency operations 5:00pm of Tuesday. (DMNR/ center (EOC) is also PIA-Caraga)

May 29-June 4, 2021 |

Typhoon Auring-affected residents in Butuan City, AgNor continue to receive aid “Pakiusap lang, magtulungan lang tayo. Sino ba naman ang magtutulungan, kung ‘di tayo lang ding kapwa natin Pilipino. Mayroon pang tinamaan ng baha dahil sa bagyo noong nakaraan buwan na tinamaan ng bagyo. Magtulungan lang tayo at malalampasan din natin itong kinakaharap na krisis ngayon basta magtulungan lang tayo,” Go expressed in his video message. Senator Christopher “Bong” Go continued to help communities that were affected by Typhoon Auring that hit the country in February as he sent relief to hundreds of typhoon victims in Butuan City and the province of Agusan del Norte. Go’s personnel handed out meals, food packs, masks, face shields, and vitamins to each beneficiary. There were selected recipients who received new pairs of shoes and bicycles that will serve as an alternative for commuters amid limited transportation options.

| May 29-June 4, 2021

Others received computer tablets that will help their children engage better during classes under the blended learning system. To ensure the well-being of the 718 beneficiaries while adhering to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) safety and health protocols, his team conducted two simultaneous distribution activities in different venues. Around 502 recipients were in attendance at the Los Angeles Covered Court, while there were around 216 beneficiaries at Agusan Pequeño Covered Court.

Several government agencies were also present as they gave additional help to the beneficiaries. The Department of Social Welfare and Development gave financial assistance through their Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation program. The Department of Trade and Industry will do an assessment where qualified recipients can be part of their livelihood program. Furthermore, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority will evaluate beneficiaries for their scholarship program. The Senator, then,

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encouraged the beneficiaries with medical conditions to seek medical assistance at the Malasakit Center located inside the Butuan Medical Center in Butuan City. Go primarily authored and sponsored Republic Act No. 11463, known as the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019. It aims to reduce to the lowest amount possible the balance of the hospital bills of those who seek its assistance by covering patient services and expenses, such as laboratories, medicines, surgeries, and operations. The center is a one-stopshop where Filipinos, particularly poor and indigent patients, can efficiently access medical assistance from agencies, such as DSWD, Department of Health, Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, and PhilHealth. “Salamat sa inyong tulong, mga kababayan, at mayroon rin tayong Malasakit Center dyan sa Butuan Medical center in Butuan City. Ang Malasakit center ay one-stop shop. Lapitan niyo lamang na handang tumulong sa poor and indigent patients,” Go said. As he continued to extend his efforts to improve access to health care assistance,

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Senator Go also filed Senate Bill No. 1226, or the proposed DOH Hospital Bed Capacity and Service Rationalization Act of 2019, which aims to authorize the DOH to increase the bed capacity and capabilities of DOH-run hospitals for a more efficient and systematic approach in dealing with health crises. “Magtiwala lang kayo sa ating gobyerno, mga kababayan ko. Ang importante ay maabot o ma-attain natin ang herd immunity sa community para unti-unti na tayong makabalik sa normal nating pamumuhay,” said Go. He, then, mentioned several projects he supported, such as the construction of the road connecting NRJ Masao Port Road-NRJ Butuan CityAgusan del Norte Logistical Highway, construction of Levee Road, concreting the road in Barangay Purok K-4 to Purok K-7 Tagabaca

Farm-to-Market Road, and many others. Go expressed his gratitude towards Agusan del Norte Governor Dale Corvera, Butuan City Mayor Ronnie Lagnada, Butuan City Vice Mayor Jose Aquino II, and other local government officials who remain to serve their constituents amid crisis due to COVID-19. “Kaunting tiis lang po at magtiwala po tayo sa ating gobyerno. Basta kami ni Presidente Duterte, sa abot ng aming makakaya, handa kaming magserbisyo sa inyong lahat,” Go ended. On May 27, similar distribution activities were conducted in the town of Tubay where 29 beneficiaries received assistance and Cabadbaran City where they handed out relief to 38 typhoon victims. (OSBG/PIACaraga)

May 29-June 4, 2021 |

LGU Butuan eyes intervention to reduce teen pregnancies Together with the Zuellig Family Foundation, the Commission on Population and Development (POPCOM) responded to the call of the local government unit (LGU) of Butuan for the institutionalization and implementation of “The Challenge Initiative” (TCI) project to address the necessary plan of action to combat early and teenage pregnancy. LGU Butuan through its City Population Office, expresses the interest in the establishment of TCI Project in the city to reinforce its thrust and direction in creating a solution to the uprising cases of teenage pregnancy.

Caraga and contributed to the 80 percent of highest live births from mothers aged 10-17 years old in the province of Agusan del Norte. Dir. Tacardon also added that Agusan del Norte has the 3rd highest live births from mothers aged 10-17 in Caraga, with 456 counts spotting to 26 percent to all cases. The Challenge Initiative gives cities a bold strategy to scale highimpact family planning and reproductive health strategies for women and girls living in urban poverty quickly and sustainably.

TCI also helps cities scale up evidenceMeanwhile, POPCOM based family planning Deputy Executive strategies that have Director Lolito R. been proven to function Tacardon highlighted the in urban environments need to institutionalize in developing countries the TCI Project in Butuan by assisting local City as it is considered communities with the the regional center of design, implementation,

| May 29-June 4, 2021

and monitoring of these solutions. Present during the conference were POPCOM Caraga Regional Director Alexander A. Makinano; ZFF-TCI Philippines chief of party Dr. Dorie Lyn O. Balanoba; City Councilors Cherry Mae Busa and Cynth Nietes and Butuan City Population Officer Dr. Josephince Chua and staff. Representatives from different partner agencies and civil society organizations also joined the said online activity. The Expression of Interest sent by the City Population of Butuan will be processed and subjected for the next phase if they will meet the needed requirements. (Matt Joe Ian F. Gonzaga, POPCOM Caraga/PIA Agusan del Norte) Caraga INFOCUS

POPCOM joins UN body calling for women, girls’ rights By Matt Joe Ian F. Gonzaga

The Commission on Population and Development (POPCOM) launched online the State of the World Population Report in the country managing the global challenge of protecting the rights of women and girls to bodily autonomy by providing quality information and on Family Planning. According to Dr. Leila Joudane, Philippines’ representative to United Nations Population Fund, the Philippines has 47 births annually per 1000 women aged 15-19 years, higher than the average adolescent birth rate of 44 globally and 33.5 in the ASEAN region. Dr. Joudane highlighted that in every five girls, one is already a mother by age 19, which triggers the need for education regarding teenage pregnancy and sexuality Caraga INFOCUS

to adolescents. Meanwhile, POPCOM Executive Director Dr. Juan Antonio A. Perez III said that unplanned and unintended pregnancy is also considered a global pandemic labeling adolescent pregnancy as a national health emergency. He underscored the Commission’s effort, local government units, and the Department of Education in capacitating adolescents to their full potential by educating them through the right path and disclosing the negative impact of early sex that concludes unwanted pregnancy.

Philippine Population Management Program to the grassroots level. Despite registering encouraging numbers in the level of Filipino women’s decisionmaking on healthcare, as well as their sexual and reproductive health and rights or SRHR, the country’s 20 million-plus young people continue to struggle in implementing their gender rights, which still account for the high prevalence of child marriages and intimate partner violence associated with adolescent pregnancies.

Attending the online launching on May 20, 2021, are the focal Dir. Perez also urged persons from the United its regional offices to Nations Population Fund, support the needs of the National Economic local government units to Development Authority, family planning services POPCOM executives, and quality information regional officials, and for the concrete other partner agencies. implementation of the (POPCOM Caraga) May 29-June 4, 2021 |

Mental health at psychosocial support services binigyang importansya sa Agusan del Norte

dahil magkakaroon sila ng makakausap. “You will survive Covid if the support system is strong,” dagdag ni Pagaran.

By Nora C. Lanuza

Isa sa mga tinututukan ngayon ang lokal na pamahalaan ng Agusan del Norte ang pagtugon sa mental health at psychosocial support services sa kanilang mga residente. Isang psychosocial first aid training ang isinagawa ng probinsya upang makatulong sa mga vulnerable sectors, gaya ng mga kababaihan, mga bata at pati na rin mga senior citizens. Naniniwala si Jorge

| May 29-June 4, 2021

Vincent G. Pagaran, isang COVID-19 survivor at hepe ng training division ng Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) na mahalagang may mga makakausap at connection ang mga COVID-19 patient sa mga panahong nasa isolation sila. Ang psychological first aid anya ay makatutulong na maibsan ang dinadanas na kalungkutan o depression ng isang tao,

Dahil sa kahalagahan ng mental at psychological support services, ipinasa din ni board member Elizabeth Marie R. Calo ang isang ordinansa upang maging institutional ito sa probinsya. Ayon din kay board member Calo na mahalaga ang mental health ng isang tao kung kaya’t suportado nito ang pagbibigay ng maayos na attention para dito. Ang nasabing psychological first aid training ay dinaluhan ng mga gender and development focal persons ng Agusan del Norte. (NCLM/PIA Agusan del Norte) Caraga INFOCUS

Senior Citizens sa Agusan Norte kumbinsido magpabakuna batok COVID-19 By Karen Decamotan

Dako ang pagtuo ug paglaum sa mga nabakunahan na nga mga senior citizens nga mamahimong protektado ug luwas sila batok coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) ug kini ang nahimong basehan sa desisyon nga magpabakuna sila. Usa kanila si Gorgornia Caraga INFOCUS

Patayon Aca-ac, 74 anyos, lumulupyo sa syudad sa Cabadbaran. Sumala pa ni Aca-ac aduna siyay allergies apan mituo siya nga inubanan sa pagampo ang makasulbad sa pandemya ang pagpabakuna lang. Niini siya mismo ang nag eng-ganyo sa

iyang mga anak nga magpabakuna. Aminado usab si Acaac nga bisan fully vaccinated na siya dili mamahimo mag kumpyansa ug mo sunod gihapon siya sa mga nag-unang mga protocols nga gipatuman sa mga lokal nga panggamhanan. May 29-June 4, 2021 |

senior citizen ug apil usab sa priority group A2, malipayong siya nga taas ang rate sa nagpabakuna nga mga senior citizens. Iyang nakita nga usa ang mga katiguwangan ang huyang ug dali gyod matakdan sa COVID-19 ug nagpasalamat siya nga nagpabakuna gyud kini sila.

Gawas nga maghimo kaniyang protektado gikan sa makamatay nga sakit, ang pagpabakuna alang usab kang Fortunata Abcede sa Buenavista ang pagpabakuna magsilbing pamaagi aron makakuha siyag vaccination card ug magamit kini niya ingkaso adunay mga establismento nga estriktong magpatuman og “no vaccination, no entry”, ug diha sa mga biyahe ug mga emerhensiya diin

| May 29-June 4, 2021

kinahanglan moadto og ospital. Base sa datus sa Department of Health Caraga, natala nga ang priority group A2 o senior citizens sa probinsya sa Agusan del Norte ang kasamtangang pinakataas nga percentage rate nga nagpabakuna kung itandi sa A1 ug A3 sa tibuok probinsya. Daku ang kalipay ni Gobernador Dale B. Corvera niini. Isip

“I am happy that our senior citizen sa A2, sa akong tan-aw, nituo sila nga kini nga bakuna, safe para sa ila bisan sa ilang edad. Ikaduha, because ang tanan impormasyon nga niabot kanato, makita nato nga vulnerable gyod ang senior citizen. Kasagaran casualty aning covid, mga senior gyod. In order to be protected, mo-submit gyod sila para duna silay protection,” sumala pa ni Gob. Corvera. Sa pagkakaron, padayon gipahigayon ang pagpabakuna sa tibuok probinsya sa Agusan del Norte, apil na niini ang second dose sa mga senior citizens. (LGU Agusan del Norte/ PIA Agusan del Norte) Caraga INFOCUS

Partisipasyon sa CSOs sa AgNor, gihisgutan sa forum By Shena Mae Pabia

Bag-uhay pa lamang gihimo sa probinsya sa Agusan del Norte sa kapitolyo niini sa Butuan ang Civil Society Organization [CSO] Forum. Gihimo kini sa pagpanguna ni Francisco Y. Chan, Jr. isip Chairperson sa Komitiba sa Kooperatiba ug mga Kapunongan sa Komunidad aron magkabayloay og hunahuna kalabot sa papel sa mga organisasyon sa mga kalihukang pangkalambuan sa probinsya, ilabina sa AGUSAN UP!, ang kampanya sa pagpalambo sa Caraga INFOCUS

administrasyon ni Gob. Dale B Corvera kaabag ang buhatan ni Kong. Angel Amante-Matba.

gobyerno,” sumala ni Eric Phully personahe sa Sangguniang Panlalawigan nga maoy nagpahiluna sa maong Apil sa gihisgutan sa kalihukan. forum ang pagmugna Aron maseguro gyod og CSO Council ingon ang partisipasyon sa man ang mahimong CSOs, gi gipadayag ni mga oportunidad Provincial Administrator ilabina sa pagahimo Gerry Joey Laurito ang pang aktibo sa mga nahisgutan na nila ni CSOs pagpatuman na Gob. Corvera nga unya sa gitawag nga posibleng pagpamugna Mandanas Ruling o ang og CSO Desk sa usa sa balaud nga magpadaku mga operating units sa sa bahin sa lokal nga probinsya. panggamhanan gikan sa kita nga mosulod sa Gipasabot usab sa mga nasudnong panudlanan. CSOs sa maong forum unsa gyod ang AGUSAN “Tinguha ani niya nga UP! ug unsa ang posibleng ma klaro ug ma plastar mahimo nilang papel. ang ilang partisipasyon (LGU Agusan del Norte/ sa atong pang PIA Agusan del Norte) May 29-June 4, 2021 |

Pagbansay alang sa Plant! Plant! Plant! project, gisugdan na

Gisugdan na ang serye sa mga pagbansay sa pag-uma nga kinahanglang agian sa tanang mag-uuma nga apil sa “Mapadayonong Tisuk” o kadtong apil sa padayong kampanya sa pagtanum ubos sa Plant! Plant! Plant Project sa AGUSAN UP!, ang kampanya sa pagpalambo sa administrasyon ni Gob. Dale B. Corvera kaabag ang buhatan ni Kong. Angel Amante-Matba. Apil sa mga pagbansay nga unang gihimo sa Simbalan, Buenavista mao ang Farm Planning ug Good Agricultural

| May 29-June 4, 2021

Practices (GAP). Apil sa maong pagbansay ang mga representante sa mga organisasyon sa mag-uuma gikan sa Benavista ug Las Nieves. Himoon usab ang maong mga pagbansay sa ubang mga lungsod ning semanaha.

kini karong Hunyo 12.

Gipunting nga tamnan sa priority crops – abaca, saging, kape, cacao, manga ug uban pang prutas, lubi, bulanghoy, rubber ug commercial trees – ubos sa AGUSAN UP! ang 125,000 ektaryas hangtud sa 2027. Mokabat sa 5,000 ektaryas ang tamnan niing tuiga ug sugdan

Gipaambit niya ang iyang kaalam sa representante sa 15 ka mga organisasyon ang husto nga preparasyon sa dili pa magsugod og pananom. (Karen Decamotan with reports from Jessa Mindajao, LGU Agusan del Norte/ PIA Agusan del Norte)

Kaabag sa AGUSAN UP! Coordinating Center sa maong pagbansay ang personahe sa buhatan sa Provincial Agriculture Office (PAO) nga si Jim Razonabe isip guest speaker.

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SurSur LGU reports high COVID-19 vaccine acceptance rate among locals

By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales

While a significant portion of the population in the country remains apprehensive about the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), locals of the municipality of San Miguel in the province of Surigao del Sur are now “eager” to get vaccinated. This, as reported by Municipal Mayor Hazel Elizalde during her guesting at the Network Briefing News (NBN) on Monday, May 31, 2021, with Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Sec. Martin Andanar. “Base po mismo sa aming mga health workers, ang mga mamamayan ng San Miguel ay talagang interesado sa pagbabakuna. Mayroon nga pong iba na gusting-gusto nang magpavaccine lalo na may local transmission Caraga INFOCUS

na po dito sa amin,” the lady mayor added. On May 17, 2021, the Department of Health (DOH) Caraga confirmed local transmission of COVID-19 in the municipality, with Barangays Patong and Poblacion pinpointed as areas with high cases of local transmission. Meanwhile, Mayor Elizalde said the local government unit is done with the vaccination of the A1 (healthcare workers) and is now working on vaccinating

the A2 (senior citizens) and the A3 (persons with co-morbidities) priority groups. “So ngayon po, naghihintay na lamang po kami sa DOH na makapadala ulit ng supply ng bakuna,” she added. As of writing, a total of 1,452 have been vaccinated in the municipality of San Miguel, 724 belong to the A1; 553 from the A2; and 175 from the A3 priority group. (DMNR/ PIA-Caraga) May 29-June 4, 2021 |

Manobo tribe in SurSur town hosts first tribal wedding By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales

The Manobo tribe in the municipality of San Miguel in Surigao del Sur hosted its first-ever “kumbiti” or a Manobo tribal wedding on May 3, 2021. The ceremony took place at Barangay Umalag, where the “sea of fogs,” the town’s top tourist attraction, can be seen. Witnessing the event alongside the tribe leaders and members were Municipal Mayor Hazel Elizalde herself, the provincial tourism

| May 29-June 4, 2021

officer, and officers of the Philippine Army.

(PCOO) Sec. Martin Andanar.

“Gusto ng magsing-irog na yun ang concept ng kasal nila kasi maiparating sa kanilang tribo at mga kababayan ang kahalagahan ng panatilihin ang tradisyon at kultura ng mga Manobo na ngayo’y unt-unting namamatay,” said Municipal Mayor Hazel Elizalde during her guesting at the Network Briefing News on Monday, May 31, 2021, with Presidential Communications Operations Office

Mayor Elizalde also served as the godmother to the wedding. In addition to her family sharing strong ties with the indigenous tribe, the local official wanted to support the event as a marker of the high regard the local government has for its indigenous peoples. “Ito din ay paraan ng pagbibigay ko ng suporta sa kanila bilang ina ng aming bayan,” she added. (DMNR/PIA-Caraga) Caraga INFOCUS

SurSur SP on 14-day lockdown after 2 employees get COVID-19

Contributed photo

The office of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) of Surigao del Sur was placed on a 14-day lockdown effective Thursday, May 27 after two of its employees tested positive for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), it announced on Friday. The SP office is located at the 2nd floor of the Provincial Legislative Building, Capitol Compound in Tandag City. Caraga INFOCUS

According to Human Resources Management Office (HRMO) chief Ace Orcullo, following the recommendation of the Tandag City Health Office, some 20 employees were temporarily isolated at the SP office and will undergo the 14-day quarantine while waiting for the scheduled swab next week. Orcullo clarified that, though the employees were temporarily isolated, they can still process and accept transaction requests from

the local government units (LGUs), and review ordinances within the province thru the Vice Governor’s Office (VGO) momentarily to ensure that services remain unhampered. Meanwhile, VGO employees will temporarily transfer to the Human Resource Training Center while the 2nd floor of the Provincial Legislative Building has been placed under lockdown status for two weeks. (PIA-Surigao del Sur) May 29-June 4, 2021 |

DA conducts livelihood, poultry info - early warning system workshop in SurSur production, extraction, and mortality.

By Kent Warren Fuguso

The Department of Agriculture – (DA) Caraga through the Regional Livestock Program conducted a three-day Livestock and Poultry Information - Early Warning System (LPI-EWS) Workshop last May 26-28, 2021 held at La Entrada, San Agustin, Surigao del Sur. The annual activity is in collaboration with the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), National Meat Inspection Services (NMIS), Bureau of Animal Industry-Veterinary Quarantine Services (BAI-VQS), and Local Government Units (LGUs). Participants of the

| May 29-June 4, 2021

writeshop were the data analyst and writers of the said institutions. The said activity aimed to depict the swine and chicken industry situation in the region in terms of quarterly inventory by type, the volume of production, volume of pork and dressed chicken, commodity flow, and monthly average prices at farm gate and retail levels. The PSA conducted the quarterly Backyard and Commercial Livestock and Poultry Surveys (BLPS and CLPS) nationwide to generate information on the inventory of stocks,

NMIS monitored the accredited dressing plants and cold storage. Other dressing plants accredited and supervised by LGUs and those unregistered are monitored by the concerned Municipal/ City/Provincial Local Government Units. DACaraga also monitored the commodity flow through the Veterinary Quarantine Services. Furthermore, the objective of the workshop is to produce an annual swine and poultry presentation that may be utilized as a direct instrument for policymaking and planning. This is also a response to the livestock and poultry difficulties that are posing a danger to animal production and inventory, which is a major factor in the market’s price instability. (DA-RAFIS13/PIA-Surigao del Sur) Caraga INFOCUS

Responsible parenthood, family planning program intensified in SurSur villages By Charina May L. Lagunde

The local government unit (LGU) of Marihatag, Surigao del Sur has strengthened the Responsible Parenthood and Family Planning (RPFP) Program to its five barangays amidst the pandemic. In the official RPFP report submitted by said LGU to the regional office of the Commission on Population and Development (POPCOM), population workers and barangay volunteers, observing the minimum standard health protocol, conducted house to house visit in the five Caraga INFOCUS

with the service to the Regional Health Unit. POPCOM Caraga together with its partners at the local and community level continues its advocacy to empower couples and individuals to achieve their desired number, timing, and spacing of children in barangays of Marihatag, the context of informed Surigao del Sur, namely choice and responsible Brgy. Amontay, Bayan, parenthood as one Mararag, Alegria, and of the thrusts of the San Isidro. agency gearing towards “Matatag, Maginhawa, The said report showed at Planadaong that a total of 54 Pamilyang Pilipino.” couples or individuals participated in which 39 POPCOM is the country’s of them expressed their lead organization in interest in the different population management family planning methods. for well-planned and Most of them preferred empowered Filipino pills as their chosen families and communities. modern FP method; on Its goal is to attain a better one hand, four couples quality of life for all Filipinos with unmet need for through the management Modern Family Planning and maintenance were validated, as of population-level well as four women of resources. (POPCOM reproductive age were Caraga/PIA-Surigao del referred and provided Sur) May 29-June 4, 2021 |

World Bank meets AgSur town’s banana coop

The World Bank that primarily funds the Department of Agriculture (DA)Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) virtually conversed with the Kinabugawan Farmers Producers Cooperative (KIFAPCO) of Veruela, Agusan del Sur, the proponent group (PG) of the PRDP Caraga I-REAP or Enterprise Component.

| May 29-June 4, 2021

KIFAPCO Chairperson, Zaldy Gabato shared how their microenterprise on Banana Production and Trading Marketing rapidly improved with the help of PRDP.

two-hectare planting area to five hectares.

Apart from the increase in income, Gabato stressed that beneficiaries became more active in planting bananas making their coop expand from a

Gabato responded that they envision to strengthen KIFAPCO’s marketing strategies which will also improve the lives of the banana farmers. “In our

World Bank Consultant, Agnes Deshormes asked KIFAPCO how do the coop foresees growth and its plan to achieve it.

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business marketing, we encourage the members to sell their bananas to us so that our income will increase. In every purchase, P0.25 goes to our coop, this little amount will go a long way,” he said. “Someday we can use the coop’s income to increase the buying price of our farmers’ bananas. This is our way to further develop the coop and help our farmers,” added Gabato.

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KIFAPCO also narrated that despite the harm brought by the pandemic, the lockdown also served to their advantage. “Our LGU was very strict during the pandemic. Residents cannot go out even in our barangay. Because of this, residents concentrated in farming specifically banana since it is the notable commodity here. Most untilled lands were now planted and this

increased our banana production,” Gabato disclosed. In the end, KIFAPCO and other PGs from Visayas and Mindanao were lauded by the World Bank consultants including Eli Weiss, Maria Theresa Quinones, Tim Hancock, and Agnes Deshormes for their hard work despite the calamities and crisis they have encountered along the way. (DA-RFO XIII, PRDP/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

May 29-June 4, 2021 |

PRLEC activity in AgSur showcases DOLE programs

The programs and services of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) were showcased in the recently concluded “Launching of Barangay Zamora Village Enterprise and Mass Graduation on Various Skills Training” in Brgy. Zamora, Talacogon, this province.

and TESDA Agusan del Sur Provincial Director Lorenzo Emanuel L. Guillermo.

The event was facilitated by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) as part of the initiatives of the Poverty Reduction and Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) in the province. Notably present in the event were TESDA Director General Secretary Isidro S. Lapeña, Deputy Director General Lina C. Sarmiento, along with TESDA Caraga Regional Director Tarhata S. Mapandi,

DOLE Agusan del Sur Provincial Office (ADSPO), together with Sec. Lapeña, officially handed the Rural Workers Association (RWA) Certificate of Registration to Diversified Organic Farmers Association (DOFA) of Brgy. Zamora. The documentary requirements were discussed with the association for their proposed livelihood project of Farm Cultivator.

| May 29-June 4, 2021

Aside from the presentation of graduates of various skills training being offered to locals of Brgy. Zamora, DOLE programs were also highlighted during the event.

Highlighted also was the

pay-out of the salaries of the 20 Former Rebel (FR) beneficiaries of the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/ Displaced Workers (TUPAD) from Brgy. Zamora. A total of Php96,000.00 was released with Php4,800.00 for each beneficiary. Sec. Lapeña commended the efforts of DOLE ADSPO for PRLEC and expressed that their contributions shall reach to the DOLE Secretary when he returns to Manila. DOLE is one of the implementing agencies of PRLEC as a response to its commitment to provide programs and services that will aid poverty reduction in the country. (DOLE-Caraga/ PIA-Agusan del Sur)

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MINDANAO NEWS

MinDA unveils 2 EU-funded energy projects at Mindanao power forum

In line with its push for enhancing agriculture value chain and the use of renewable energy, the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) unveiled today two energy projects aimed at increasing agricultural productivity in off-grid areas in Mindanao with sustainable and resilient energy sources. Among the projects showcased at the Mindanao Power Forum 2021 include the

| May 29-June 4, 2021

Renewable Energy for Tawi-Tawi Seaweeds (RETS) Project, which focuses on solar and diesel hybridization in the seaweed farming municipalities of Sitangkai, Sibutu, Panglima Sugala, and Tandubas. The project aims to provide electricity access for some 5,000 households and increase seaweeds production in the island province of Tawi-Tawi. The

PhP262 million project is being implemented by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), in partnership with MinDA, Local Government of Tawi-Tawi, Tawi-Tawi Electric Cooperative (TAWELCO), and BARMM Regional Government. Another EU-funded program launched during the forum is the PhP 245 million Integration of Productive Uses of Renewable Caraga INFOCUS

the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. It also highlighted the importance energy transition in building back a better Mindanao that is sustainable and more resilient.

Energy for Sustainable and Inclusive Energization in Mindanao (I-PURE Mindanao), which is designed to help bring inclusive and sustainable economic development in 10 pilot areas, particularly offgrid but agriculturally productive communities through the use of RE solutions for livelihood activities and household energization. Both projects are funded under the European Union – Access to Sustainable Energy Programme (EU-ASEP), with MinDA, Department of Energy (DOE) and the National Electrification Administration (NEA) Caraga INFOCUS

collaborating with the EU to promote energy transition initiatives and inclusive development. “These projects concretize our efforts to help accelerate agricultural growth while promoting renewable energy deployment in Mindanao,” said MinDA Secretary Emmanuel Piñol during the Mindanao Power Forum which was conducted via online platform. Attended by nearly over 400 participants, Mindanao Power Forum served as venue to discuss continuing challenges in the power sector, including

“While our power situation in Mindanao has seen significant improvement in recent years, our way forward needs to look at achieving a regime of long term sustainable and reliable power across the island including the off-grid communities,” Piñol added. The Mindanao Power Forum 2021 was organized by MinDA through the Mindanao Power Monitoring Committee and in partnership with, DOE, Association of Mindanao Rural Electric Cooperatives (AMRECO), UNIDO Philippines, EUASEP, BARMM Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Energy, USAID’s Energy Secure Philippines, and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI). May 29-June 4, 2021 |

Project gains support: MinDA, partners set up 10 more irrigated upland rice pilot garms What started as just a privately-funded experiment on the use of Pressurized Irrigation for Upland Rice Farming in a small portion of my farm has now become a Mindanao-wide program as institutional support started coming in. Yesterday, representatives of US Seedworks Philippines came to visit the 460-square meter plot where we set up a raintype pressurized irrigation system to plant a hybrid upland rice variety, TH 82, which was developed by the company in its fields in India. In previous trials conducted in the nonirrigated areas of Central Mindanao, TH 82 was planted using the dryseeding process relying mainly on rain and posted a record harvest of 10.2-metric tons per hectare. Engr. Rey Cajandig said his company offered to support the project by covering the expenses involved in the

| May 29-June 4, 2021

development of the pilot farm. I then asked US Seedworks to support my plan to expand the area of the pilot farms in the next planting season and help establish at least 10 more in different areas in Mindanao. With this development, MinDA will now make this project one of its programs under the advocacy to improve productivity, reduce poverty and sustain the gains of peace in Mindanao. The Irrigated Upland Rice Farming Program in Mindanao will now involve MinDA as the lead agency, the Phlippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) Midsayap Field Office and US Seedworks Philippines. We will be reaching out to

organic or mineral fertilizer production companies to complete the team. In the meantime, we will identify the 10 Pilot Sites preferably in the highlands of Mindanao where farmers traditionally plant upland rice varieties once a year. The Pilot Farms will be established shortly after the harvest of the traditional upland rice between July and August and technical people will attempt to plant a second cropping for the year using Pressurized Irrigation. The success of this experiment will have a huge impact on food sufficiency and poverty alleviation programs in the highlands of Mindanao and maybe later in the rest of the country. (MinDA) Caraga INFOCUS

NATIONAL NEWS

Andanar optimistic about ‘faster’ recovery of Marawi By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos

Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar on Saturday expressed optimism about the immediate recovery of war-torn Marawi City. “Marawi will rise again and inshallah (if Allah wills it), Marawi’s rise will come faster and better growth (will be seen in) the region for Mindanao, for the country,” Andanar said in the Cabinet Report on “Marawi Rising”. He also looked forward to the return of peace, prosperity, and

| May 29-June 4, 2021

prominence of Marawi President Rodrigo City, once it is restored to Duterte, through its former glory. Administrative Order 3 issued on June 28, 2017, “Marawi is a longformed the Task Force standing gateway to Bangon Marawi (TFBM) the Muslim heart of the to ensure the recovery, Philippines,” he said. reconstruction, and rehabilitation of the “Ngayong nalalapit conflict-stricken city. na ang kaniyang muling pagbangon, Chairperson of the inaabangan ‘di lang ng TFBM, Housing Secretary mga taga-Marawi kundi Eduardo del Rosario, ng buong bansa na told the PCOO chief tunay nating makita ang that Marawi’s potential is potensiyal nito (Now that “very tremendous.” it will soon rise, Marawi residents and the entire “Definitely, this will country are waiting for its attract more business, true potential).” investment not only among Muslims but even Marawi envisioned as Christian investors will “prosperous” city surely go there,” he said. Caraga INFOCUS

Del Rosario said the rehabilitation of Marawi is on track to finish most of the infrastructure projects in the city by yearend. Despite the challenges in rebuilding Marawi, he assured that all infrastructure projects would be completed before Duterte’s term ends in 2022. “I can assure you, most of the infrastructure na ginawa natin matatapos (will be finished) by December of 2021 and lahat ng (all) public infrastructure, whether horizontal or vertical, will be completed within the term of the President,” he said. Del Rosario said the public could expect that Marawi City would soon be recognized again as a “prosperous city”. “For us, our commitment to Marawi is always first priority and we will do the best we can to ensure that the rehabilitation will be completed within the term of our beloved President,” he said. Go “full blast” TFBM field office Caraga INFOCUS

PNA file photo

manager, Assistant Secretary Felix Castro, said the task force is going “full blast” to ensure the immediate recovery of Marawi City. “Talagang ang target date natin ay this year na matapos iyan kasi nga iyon ang pangako ni Secretary del Rosario at hinahabol natin (Our target date is to finish [the infrastructure projects] by this year because that’s the promise of Secretary del Rosario. We’re trying to catch up),” Castro said in an interview with Andanar. He said ongoing projects in Marawi City include the construction of

10 four-story school buildings, a barangay hall complex, a Grand Market, and a Grand Mosque. The five-month battle between the military forces and Islamic Statelinked Maute terrorist group in Marawi City began on May 23, 2017. On Oct. 17, 2017, Duterte declared Marawi City free from the Maute group. The 2017 siege in Marawi City prompted the President to place the entire Mindanao under martial rule until Dec. 31, 2019 to quell terrorism in the southern part of the country. (PNA) May 29-June 4, 2021 |

First PIA office outside Metro Manila to rise in Baguio By Dionisio Dennis, Jr. and Liza Agoot

GROUNDBREAKING. Presidential Communications Operations Office Undersecretary and Philippine Information Agency Director General Ramon Cualoping III (left) leads the laying of the time capsule of the P26 million PIA-Cordillera regional office in Baguio City on Monday (May 31, 2021). It will be the first PIA building outside the National Capital Region and is one of the four buildings the agency will build this year. (PNA photo by Redjie Melvic Cawis)

The Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) will construct the first Philippine Information Agency (PIA) office outside the National Capital Region here.

to the Filipino public, with the final goal of seeing the quality of their lives improved and empowered to participate in the country’s democratic processes.

PIA is one of the agencies under the PCOO that is mandated to disseminate information about government programs, projects, and services

“The essence of information is always by telling of the truth. And this is the foundation by which the PIA has stood for in its entire existence.

| May 29-June 4, 2021

Most importantly, the strength of our national communications system is the professionalism and integrity of the women and men of the work desk of the agency and that is where the structures of the facility that will rise shall serve the Cordilleras,” PCOO Secretary Martin Andanar said in a video message played during the groundbreaking activity in Barangay DPS Caraga INFOCUS

four buildings will be erected this year). I think it is a very good birthday gift for the PIA for the 35 years,” Cualoping said. The other building in the Cordillera will be in Tabuk City, Kalinga.

on Monday. Andanar said the PIA is a communication source and mechanism vital for the government and the people. “It is the interactive medium that connects the data of government services and other programs that are downloaded to the remotest communities in the country. The rapid growth of development is best served when the needs of our people are served,” he said. PCOO Undersecretary Ramon Cualoping III, the PIA Director General, said it is the first PIAowned building outside Metro Manila. Caraga INFOCUS

“I think this is the success of the entire PIA Cordillera team. This is history for the 35th year of PIA,” he said in a speech at the event. The building worth PHP26 million is one of four PIA buildings to be constructed this year. “Sa ilalim ni Pangulong [Rodrigo] Duterte, sa ilalim ni Sec. Andanar at sa tulong ni Senator (Christopher Lawrence) Bong Go na rin sa legislation sa budget, magpapatayo ng apat na building this year (During the term of President Duterte, under the leadership of Secretary Andanar, and with the help of Senator Bong Go who legislated the budget,

The PIA building in Tuguegarao City, Cagayan will also break ground this week while it will be the turn of the Region 9 office in Pagadian City, Zamboanga Del Sur within the month. Cualoping assured that the PIA, together with the People’s Television Network, Radyo Pilipinas, and the Philippine News Agency as well as other media outfits, will continue to perform their functions to provide information amid challenges. “We will not stop working 24/7 together with our colleagues in the private media to provide information that will equip the people with the correct knowledge which is very important especially during the pandemic,” he said. (PNA) May 29-June 4, 2021 |

PCOO, DOH hand over universal health care kits to Mipaga TS By Claire R. Gigje

Almira Ali Racman, a resident at Bahay Pag-asa - Phase 2, shows her universal health care kit from the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) and the Department of Health (DOH) after emotionally expressing her gratitude for the continuous overwhelming support given by the government in their area. (PIA-ICIC)

As part of the observance of the week-long Marawi Week of Peace and the continuous battle against the coronavirus disease (COVID) 19, the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) together with the Department of Health (DOH) distributed universal health care kits

| May 29-June 4, 2021

to internally displaced persons (IDPs) at Bahay Pag-asa - Phase 2, a transitory shelter in Brgy. Mipaga, Sunday, May 23. PCOO Director Ma. Florinda Princess Duque shared that the initiative was to extend awareness to the people in distant places about the government’s programs

and efforts, especially with regards to this time’s health crisis. “Talagang pumupunta kami sa mga barangay para ipahiwatig kung ano po ba talaga iyong ang mga ginagawang nating programa lalong lalo na nilalabanan natin ang COVID-19 na pandemyang ito… Maraming programa si President Rodrigo Roa Duterte at nais naming ibahagi iyon sa inyo, ishare sa inyo kasi para sa inyo ang programa ni President Rodrigo Roa Duterte,” she said. [We really go to barangays to explain what really are the programs we push especially now that we are fighting against this COVID-19 pandemic… President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has lots of programs and we want this to share with you because the programs of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte are all for you.] PCOO Asec. Jusan Vincent Arcena then stressed that what the office is doing through its Laging Handa program is an intensified information education campaign that Caraga INFOCUS

According to them, the effort only proves that the government never forgets about them.

every Filipino needs. “Hanggang sa mga kanayunan, hanggang sa mga liblib na lugar ay dinadayo po ng PCOO at gumagawa kami ng mga information education campaign materials para iparating sa lahat ng ating kababayan ang mga dapat nilang malamang mga impormasyon, mga vital, relevant at importante po sa inyong pagdedesisyon,” he emphasized. [PCOO visits the countryside, the remote areas and we make information and education campaign materials to convey to all of our fellowmen the information that they need to know, those that are vital, relevant and important in their decision-making.] Caraga INFOCUS

Inside the universal health care kit were a shirt, mug, notebook and IEC materials. Further, Laging Handa calendars were also given to extend knowledge to the receivers on the proper precautions whenever they are in an emergency situation and the proper way of wearing a face mask. Meanwhile, beneficiaries of the kits conveyed their gratitude for the conducted community extension. “Maraming salamat sa kanila kasi hanggang nandito kami, nandito rin sila. Hindi natatapos ang pamimigay nila sa amin. Kahit paano naiibsan ang aming nararamdaman sa ground zero,” Almira Ali Racman, a resident at Bahay Pag-asa - Phase 2, emotionally expressed.

“Maganda po ito kasi nasa puso niyo pa po kami… Tuloy-tuloy po [ang tulong ng gobyerno],” stated Linang Macaumbos, a resident of the visited transitory shelter. [This is wonderful because we are still in your hearts… [The help from the government is] still continuous.] The distribution of healthcare kits to the IDPs in Brgy. Mipaga was also joined by Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) Social Healing and Peace (SHAPE) Department Director Vanessa Pallarco, 12th CivilMilitary Operations (CMO) Commanding Officer LTC David Taqueban, and 55th Engineer Brigade Civil-Military Operations (CMO) Officer Lt. Keeley Joy Betino. The Army Engineers also facilitated the transport of the kits from Laguindingan Airport to the distribution venue. (CRG/PIA-ICIC) May 29-June 4, 2021 |

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte presides over a meeting with the InterAgency 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 31, 2021. ROBINSON NIÑAL/ PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

President Duterte places NCR Plus, other areas under GCQ in June President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has extended the general community quarantine (GCQ) “with heightened restrictions” enforced in National Capital Region (NCR) Plus from June 1 to 15 to curb the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). The NCR Plus is composed of Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal. President Duterte approved the recommendation of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) during a meeting with pandemic task force officials on Monday, May 31, at

| May 29-June 4, 2021

the Malacañang Golf Clubhouse.

Apayao, Benguet, Ifugao, Puerto Princesa City, Iloilo City, Zamboanga City, In his weekly public address, Zamboanga Sibugay, the President also placed Zamboanga del Sur, 13 areas under GCQ for Zamboanga del Norte, the whole month of June. Cagayan de Oro City, These are Baguio City, Butuan City, and Agusan Kalinga, Mountain Province, del Sur. Abra, Isabela, Nueva Vizcaya, Quirino, Batangas, The rest of the country Quezon, Iligan City, Davao is under the least strict City, Lanao del Sur, and quarantine classification, Cotabato City. modified GCQ (MGCQ) for the entire month of June. Meanwhile, 12 areas will be As of May 31, the Philippines under the stricter modified has logged 6,684 new enhanced community COVID-19 cases, putting quarantine (MECQ) from the number of active June 1 to 15 due to higher cases to 54,290, according number of COVID-19 to the Department of infections. Health (DOH). The country has recorded a total of These areas are the City 1,155,045 recoveries and of Santiago in Isabela, 20,966 deaths. PND Caraga INFOCUS

Individuals selling vaccination slots will be held accountable, says President Duterte President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Monday, May 31, cautioned people selling vaccination slots, noting they may face criminal charges if they continue their illegal activity. “It has come to the knowledge of everybody sa Task Force that there are an alleged illegal sale of COVID-19 vaccination slots in Mandaluyong City,” the President said in his weekly public address on COVID-19 interventions. “It is good that Chairman Benhur Abalos ng MMDA and Mandaluyong Mayor Menchie Abalos have acted on this quickly.” President Duterte reiterated that the vaccines should be given Caraga INFOCUS

to people for free, adding that they only need to go to local vaccination centers for the jabs. “We will not allow… All vaccines of our people are given for free, libre ‘yan. Huwag kayong magbayad. Wala kayong gastusin niyan,” he said. “Selling vaccination slot goes against the principle of equitable vaccine distribution.” People could be charged with theft if they engaged in the sale of slots, while government officials could be charged with violation of the anti-graft and corrupt practices law. The chief executive then said that he is directing the Department of Justice (DOJ) to determine which

specific charges can be use against violators. Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo Año noted that people engaged in such activity could be charged with unauthorized sale of unregistered product since COVID-19 vaccines are being used under emergency use authorization (EUA), and therefore cannot be commercialized. “Mayroon po kaming nakita po ‘yong violation ng Section 11 ng FDA law or FDA Act, ito po ‘yong unauthorized sale po ng unregistered product dahil po ‘yong ating vaccine ay under EUA, hindi po ito puwedeng ibenta o ipagbili,” Año said. PND May 29-June 4, 2021 |

Vaccination (PNA file photo)

PH to get at least 2M doses monthly from COVAX By Lade Jean Kabagani

The Philippines is finally seeing a steady supply of Covid-19 vaccines from the World Health Organization (WHO) and Gavi Alliance-led COVAX facility. Two million doses are expected every month, National Task Force (NTF) Against Covid-19 Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. said on Monday night during a briefing with President Rodrigo Duterte. Apart from deliveries from the COVAX facility, the government also awaits deliveries from pharmaceutical firms Caraga INFOCUS

AstraZeneca, Moderna, Sinovac, and Gamaleya Research Institute beginning July. Galvez added the United States vowed to include the Philippines among the top beneficiaries of its 80 million doses of excess coronavirus vaccines to be donated to COVAX. He also reported the country has reached the five-million mark in the vaccine rollout. A million individuals were inoculated weekly for the past two weeks.

“Noong March to April, one million lang po tayo ng 40 days. Ngayon po, na-triple po natin. Hindi pa umaabot ang end ng May ay tatlong milyon na po ang ating nabakunahan (Between March and April, we only had one million within 40 days. Now, it has been tripled. We have already vaccinated three million before end of May),” the vaccine czar said. As of May 30, a total of 5,180,721 doses have been vaccinated, of which 3,974,350 received first doses and 1,206,371 already with full protection. (PNA) May 29-June 4, 2021 |

PRRD inclined to give westernmade vax to seafarers

By Azer Parrocha

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte

President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday said he is “inclined” to approve calls to provide western-made Covid-19 vaccines to Filipino seafarers if required for work. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque confirmed that Duterte is open to allowing seafarers to be vaccinated with vaccines authorized for use by the European Union such as Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca, and Johnson and Johnson, in a prerecorded meeting with Duterte and other Cabinet members. “Sinabi niyo na po kanina (You already

| May 29-June 4, 2021

said earlier that) you’re inclined to grant the request so maraming salamat po (so thank you very much),” Roque told Duterte. Duterte said he did not see anything wrong in allowing seafarers to choose their preferred vaccine as a violation of the 1987 Constitution. Under Section 1, Article III of the Constitution, “no person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law, nor shall any persons be denied the equal protection of the laws.” “We are ready to vaccinate them with the western brand… There is no violation of the equal protection of laws but

this is what the nature of their work requires,” he said. He, however, emphasized that all Covid-19 vaccines are equally safe and effective regardless of where they were manufactured. “To us there is no distinction, lahat ito (they are all) effective. And as a matter of fact, a lot of countries have used Sinovac…I have not heard of any news or whatever to show that there are complaints about the disparity in the efficacy of these vaccines,” he said. Duterte denied that he is considering giving Caraga INFOCUS

western-made vaccines to seafarers because they are “superior” than other brands. “Itong (These) US-made [vaccines] cannot be a superior brand than the Chinese and other brands in comparing them with each other.

Meanwhile, he dared critics claiming that allowing seafarers to choose their preferred brand to prove that the policy would be a violation of the equal protection of the laws.

“Pakita muna nila sa atin na mas mahusay itong western-made Tsaka ang the best kaysa itong China. Kung talaga na bakuna, sabi makikita nila ‘yan, it is nga nila, yung nandiyan superior, then…they sa harap mo (And the have to prove it, then best vaccine is the one that is the time that that’s in front of you),” he you can say there is a added. violation of the equality

Caraga INFOCUS

of laws,” he said. He clarified that the government was not giving seafarers special treatment by allowing them to receive western brands. “It is not given to the seafarers not because they are a special breed kundi kailangan mo bigyan dahil (but we need to give them western-made vaccines because) their work requires the vaccination of US-made or western brands,” he said. (PNA)

May 29-June 4, 2021 |

Gov’t to start vaccinating ‘A4’ priority group in June The national government will start vaccinating qualified individuals under the A4 priority group including those who work outside their homes and government workers in June. “Sa buwan ng Hunyo din sisimulan ang pagbabakuna ng A4 priority group (The vaccination of the A4 priority group will also begin in June),” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said in a Palace press briefing on Monday. Under Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) Resolution No. 117, those eligible for vaccination include private sector workers required to be physically present at their workplace outside their residences; employees in government agencies and instrumentalities; and informal sector workers and self-employed who may be required to work outside their residences, and those working in private households. Roque said local government units (LGUs)

| May 29-June 4, 2021

File photo

may prioritize vaccinating economic front-liners aged 40 to 59 years old. Citing government data, Roque said the A4 priority group will be focused on approximately 13 million additional workers in Metro Manila and other areas in NCR Plus 8, the areas that make up the majority of Covid-19 cases in the country. These areas are Metro Manila, Metro Cebu, Metro Davao, Bulacan, Batangas, Cavite, Laguna, Pampanga, and Rizal.

vaccine is the vaccine that is available),” he said. As of Sunday, the Philippines has administered over 5 million Covid-19 doses since it began its vaccine rollout on March 1. The country now has four brands of Covid-19 vaccines in its inventory namely Sinovac’s CoronaVac (China), AstraZeneca (UK), Sputnik V (Russia), and Pfizer (US).

The Department of Health Another 22.5 million workers (DOH) earlier revised its will subsequently be target to inoculate 50 to 60 included from areas outside percent of the population NCR Plus 8, bringing the with a concentration in total estimate to 35.5 million. Metro Manila, two other cities, and six provinces He encouraged those instead of its initial 70 belonging to A1 to A3 percent of Filipinos. priority groups to also get vaccinated against DOH Undersecretary Myrna Covid-19 and refrain from Cabotaje earlier said the being choosy over vaccine government will now aim brands. for “population protection” “Ang pinakabisang bakuna against Covid-19 while ay ang available na waiting for more vaccines. bakuna (The most effective (PNA/Azer Parrocha)

Caraga INFOCUS

EDITORIAL BOARD Executive Editor

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RONNIE E. MADANGUIT JOHN CHARLES B. MALAZARTE Contributors

JENNIFER P. GAITANO Agusan del Sur

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Surigao del Norte/Dinagat Islands

DOREEN MARIELLE N. ROSALES Regional Office

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Regional Office Jose Rosales Avenue, Butuan City piacaraga@gmail.com; pia_caraga@yahoo.com.ph (085) 341-5285; (085) 815-1991 Philippine Information Agency Caraga @PIACaraga

Information Centers AGUSAN DEL NORTE Jose Rosales Avenue, Butuan City

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Caraga InFocus – May 29-June 4, 2021

Articles inside

GOV’T TO START VACCINATING ‘A4’ PRIORITY GROUP IN JUNE

PRRD INCLINED TO GIVE WESTERN-MADE VAX TO SEAFARERS

PH TO GET AT LEAST 2M DOSES MONTHLY FROM COVAX

INDIVIDUALS SELLING VACCINATION SLOTS WILL BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE, SAYS PRESIDENT DUTERTE

FIRST PIA OFFICE OUTSIDE METRO MANILA TO RISE IN BAGUIO PCOO, DOH HAND OVER UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE KITS TO MIPAGA TS

WORLD BANK MEETS AGSUR TOWN’S BANANA COOP

PROJECT GAINS SUPPORT: MINDA, PARTNERS SET UP 10 MORE IRRIGATED UPLAND RICE PILOT GARMS

ANDANAR OPTIMISTIC ABOUT ‘FASTER’ RECOVERY OF MARAWI

PRLEC ACTIVITY IN AGSUR SHOWCASES DOLE PROGRAMS

RESPONSIBLE PARENTHOOD, FAMILY PLANNING PROGRAM INTENSIFIED IN SURSUR VILLAGES

MINDA UNVEILS 2 EU-FUNDED ENERGY PROJECTS AT MINDANAO POWER FORUM

DA CONDUCTS LIVELIHOOD, POULTRY INFO - EARLY WARNING SYSTEM WORKSHOP IN SURSUR

SURSUR SP ON 14-DAY LOCKDOWN AFTER 2 EMPLOYEES GET COVID-19

MANOBO TRIBE IN SURSUR TOWN HOSTS FIRST TRIBAL WEDDING

PARTISIPASYON SA CSOS SA AGNOR, GIHISGUTAN SA FORUM

SURSUR LGU REPORTS HIGH COVID-19 VACCINE ACCEPTANCE RATE AMONG LOCALS

PAGBANSAY ALANG SA PLANT! PLANT! PLANT! PROJECT, GISUGDAN NA

SENIOR CITIZENS SA AGUSAN NORTE KUMBINSIDO MAGPABAKUNA BATOK COVID-19

MENTAL HEALTH AT PSYCHOSOCIAL SUPPORT SERVICES BINIGYANG IMPORTANSYA SA AGUSAN DEL NORTE

POPCOM JOINS UN BODY CALLING FOR WOMEN, GIRLS’ RIGHTS

AGUSAN DEL NORTE RAISES CODE BLUE STATUS DUE TO TS DANTE

LGU BUTUAN EYES INTERVENTION TO REDUCE TEEN PREGNANCIES

COMMIT TO QUIT: NAGKAKAISANG PILIPINO PARA SA ‘NO YOSI’

TYPHOON AURING-AFFECTED RESIDENTS IN BUTUAN CITY, AGNOR CONTINUE TO RECEIVE AID

PINAKAUNANG SEARCH, RESCUE BASE SA BANSA PINASINAYAAN NG PCG

SURIGAO NORTE LGU, NHA INK MOA FOR MAMANWA HOUSING PROJECT

PPO SURIGAO NORTE JOINS SIMULTANEOUS LAUNCHING OF ‘BRIGADA ESTASYON’

SURIGAO DEL NORTE PPO IMPLEMENTS ‘BARANGAYANIHAN’ PROGRAM

ORDINANSA SA BUTUAN CITY MENTAL HEALTH CARE AND WELLNESS COORDINATING

ENHANCED LEADERSHIP UG BASIC BOOKEEPING, GITUDLO SA MGA FARMER LEADERS UG OPISYALES SA MGA ASOSASYON UG KOOPERATIBA

PAGBANSAY SA MGA NEGOSYANTENG MAG-UUMA KABAHIN SA BEST GAME TRAINING GIHINGUSGAN SA LGU BUTUAN

KALAHI-CIDSS CARAGA LAUNCHES SUBPROJECT LOCATOR MOBILE APP

DSWD, IJM EQUIP FRONTLINERS HANDLING ONLINE SEXUAL EXPLOITATION CASES

PESO INSTITUTIONALIZATION: FOR BETTER PUBLIC EMPLOYMENT SERVICE

OIE ENDORSES PROGRAM TO CONTROL DOG-MEDIATED RABIES

FARMERS, FISHERFOLKS RECEIVE DEEP-SEA FISHING LIVELIHOOD GRANT FROM DOLE

BUTUAN CITY SK LAUNCHES MENTAL HEALTH CAMPAIGN AMID PANDEMIC

LEARNERS RECEIVE HEALTH WELLNESS KITS FROM DEPED-BUTUAN, BSP

CARAGA RTF-ELCAC, CSU GEAR UP CAMPAIGN VS CTG RECRUITMENT

DA CHIEF DIRECTS BSWM TO SET UP MODERN SOIL LABORATORIES

FUNDRAISER FOR VULNERABLE SECTORS LAUNCHED BY LOCAL SK

CARAGA AGRI-FISHERY SECTOR JOINS IN PEACE, DEV’T CONFERENCE

RTWPB CARAGA CONDUCTS TRAINING ON BIZ CONTINUITY PLANNING

RPAB APPROVES 6 PROPOSALS FOR PRIORITIZATION RUN IN CARAGA