CONTENTS Caraga Infocus
30 May - 5 June 2020
9 11 13 14 15 16 18 19 21 23 24
Volume IV, No. 23
REGIONAL NEWS Government’s Balik Probinsya Program benefits Caraganons 92 stranded OFWs arrive safely in Caraga region 3 new COVID-19 cases tallied in Caraga region BIR-Caraga urges prompt tax payments Caraga RTF vs COVID-19 gives go signal for MGCQ implementation P7.4 Million DA’s expanded SURE aid fund benefits 296 farmers, fisherfolk DA Caraga promotes diversified home gardening PNP-13 records zero sexual abuse complaint vs cops at checkpoints MCCT beneficiary shares SAP grants to needy DOTr Caraga may paala-ala sa publiko hingil sa ipinatutupad na patakaran sa ilalim ng MGCQ Kadiwa store for coco products opens in Butuan
09
Government’s Balik Probinsya Program benefits Caraganons
14
BIR-Caraga urges prompt tax payments
29 AgSur farmers to get P125.8-M support under RRP
53 Solon welcomes IBC-13 as remote learning platform amid Covid-19
63 Israel donates medical supplies to DND
27 28 29 31 33 34 36 38 39 40 41 43 45 48 50 51 53 56 58 59 60 63
PROVINCIAL NEWS AgNor’s scholarship program intensified TESDA-AdN chief visits proposed veggie production site AgSur farmers to get P125.8-M support under RRP DAR’s ARBold Move Project rolls out in AgSur LGU-Dinagat Islands distributes packed meals to frontliners P62.5M to support ECQ affected Caraga farmers, fisherfolk Mining companies sa Caraga, tumulong sa mga apektadong komunidad LGU Dinagat Islands creates ‘online palengke’ Surigao del Sur receives test kits, PPEs 51 stranded Hinatuanons return home LSIs, ROFs to undergo rapid testing in Tagbina town
MINDANAO NEWS MinDA eyes Spanish sardines industry to end Zambo Norte poverty MinDA starts groundwork in BP2 villages
NATIONAL NEWS Andanar sees need to promote gov’t Covid-19 programs SSS extends anew its contribution payment deadline to June 15 Duterte certifies anti-terror bill as urgent Solon welcomes IBC-13 as remote learning platform amid Covid-19
COVID-19 NEWS PH to resume hydroxychloroquine trial Critical care utilization rate ‘OK’ for now: expert House OKs PCR testing for vulnerable sectors on 2nd reading ECQ helped contain Covid-19 infection: Roque Israel donates medical supplies to DND
OCD-13 distributes PPE sets, test kits to provinces By Venus L. Garcia
B
UTUAN CITY - Facing the threat of pandemic, the Philippine government has taken steps to further strengthen its capability to curb the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). In Caraga region, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) handled the immediate distribution of the rapid test kits and personal protective equipment (PPE) sets to the different provinces. This batch is part of the OCD-procured rapid test kits received by Caraga Regional Task Force chairperson Gov. Dale Corvera during the recent visit of the National Action Plan Against COVID-19 chief implementer Sec. Carlito Galvez, Jr. In the region.
4
| May 30-June 5, 2020
According to OCDCaraga regional director Liza Mazo, there are 17,800 rapid test kits and 2,000 sets of personal protective equipment that are now utilized by the frontliners at health institutions. “The OCD is tasked to lead the logistics cluster. President Rodrigo Dutere signed the administrative order mandating our office to receive and coordinate donations of medicines and medical supplies and equipment to the government. Per
Administrative Order 27, it also requires the transmission of all donations to the national government or the Department of Health (DOH) to the OCD for consolidation. For now, we are done with the delivery to the provinces,” said Mazo. The government
local units in the region through their Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office extend their gratitude for the support given by the national government. “The Agusan del Norte have already received 2,500 Rapid Test kits and PPEs. We are really thankful for these,” said Jorge Vincent Pagaran, Emergency Operations Center (EOC) manager of the Agusan del Norte province. Mazo said, the OCS, as the secretariat of the National Task Group on Resource Management and Logistics ensures the availability of resources, supplies and facilities for the COVID -19 response operations of the government. May 30 - June 5, 2020 |
5
Meanwhile, Mazo disclosed that they had catered more than 5,000 calls and requests from stranded individuals in the different areas of the country. Mazo added that even after the management of these requests was already turned over to the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG)- Caraga, they still respond to queries and referred to the DILG for appropriate intervention. (VLG/PIACaraga)
6
| May 30-June 5, 2020
News Briefs PCOO Sec. Martin Andanar will convene the information officers of the different regions which include Caraga, along with the SK leaders and youth organizations for the 6th COVID-19 Virtual Town Hall Meeting. xx
POPCOM launched its Responsible ParenthoodFamily Planning (RP-FP) Hotlines to assist the communities in educating the public on matters involving their safety and health during the pandemic. Trained social workers of POPCOM will respond to the messages and calls from the public on 0995-1550746 (Globe) and 0951-0419159 (Smart) during working hours Monday to Friday. Violence against women (VAW) happens everywhere at home, school, workplace and now increasingly in online spaces. Around the world, VAW has been a widespread human rights violation but abuses remain unreported due to the shame and stigma surrounding it, keeping perpetrators unpunished. (CHR Philippines) World No Tobacco Day. In response to the tobacco and related industries’ systematic, aggressive and sustained tactics to attract a new generation of tobacco users, World No Tobacco Day 2020 will provide a counter-marketing campaign and empower young people to engage in the fight against Big Tobacco.
REGIONAL NEWS
Government’s Balik Probinsya Program benefits Caraganons
By Jennifer P. Gaitano
With the ongoing implementation of the government’s Balik Probinsya Program, the Caraganons who were stranded in other parts of the country have gained access and benefited of the said program, as concerned government agencies and local government units work together to bring them back to their respective hometowns. The locally stranded individuals back to Caraga region expressed their (LSIs) from the National Capital Region thanks to all the concerned government and Cebu City who have traveled agencies for their effort and initiative to May 30 - June 5, 2020 |
9
assist and provide cash assistance to home,” cited Milan. the stranded Caraganons during this coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) Milan further clarified that those crisis. who have arrived in the region through the Balik Probinsya Program have “We thanked the government for undergone the necessary health facilitating our safe travel back here. protocols of the Department of Health The processes might be so tedious, (DOH) and other concerned agencies. but we understand that the organizers (JPG/PIA-Caraga) from the government only want to make sure that all the health protocols and preventive measures against the spread of COVID-19 are followed,” said Romeo Aguilar, one of the passengers and a resident of Buenavista, Agusan del Norte. According to Freida Judith Milan, Zone Manager of the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) in Caraga, their office has been facilitating a number of Caraganons who wanted to return home and these include the students who arrived in batches. The local government units also continue to monitor and assist those who are still in other parts of the country and need to return to their respective provinces in Caraga. Milan added that the LSIs have received 3,000 pesos each from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga while 1st District Representative Lawrence Fortun also handed-over 1,500 pesos to those from Butuan City and Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte. “PEZA is always here ready to extend help and assistance to our Caraganons who wished to return
10
| May 30-June 5, 2020
92 stranded OFWs arrive safely in Caraga region
By Jennifer P. Gaitano
With the help of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Caraga and other concerned government agencies, some 92 OFWs who were stranded in the National Capital Region and Cebu City since March of this year have safely arrived in Caraga region. According to OWWA-Caraga regional director Ma. Irene Cambaling, these 92 OFWs have undergone the required health protocols including the rapid testing from their place of origin that yielded negative results for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
OWWA then facilitated the necessary documents for the travel of these OFWs back to their provinces in Caraga. Onboard the M/V St. Francis Xavier of 2G0 Shipping, health workers have carefully assisted the 92 repatriated May 30 - June 5, 2020 |
11
OFWs as they arrived at the Nasipit Port, Agusan del Norte. The personnel from different concerned agencies such as the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and Philippine National Police (PNP), among others also conducted the required protocols and other preventive measures. The local government units (LGUs) also provided vehicles to transport the OFWs who have long been wanting to go home and be with their families.
given the certificate of acceptance as one of the requirements in their travel back to Caraga region. They may also directly contact the OWWA regional office hotline (09173150590) or send them their personal details through the official Facebook account of OWWA Caraga.
The official added that the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and OWWA have already put in place the needed assistance for the OFWs whose work abroad was Algi Mark CasiĂąero, one of the temporarily suspended due to the repatriated OFWs who is from the pandemic. province of Surigao del Norte, thanked the government for their immediate These OFWs who arrived in Caraga response to their request to go home region will again undergo the 14-day in Caraga with their families, and for quarantine following the directive of providing cash assistance during this their respective LGUs. pandemic. Meanwhile, with the intensified Director Cambaling also called implementation of the Balik Probinsya on other OFWs who are still stranded in Program, more of the Caraganon OFWs other regions to closely coordinate with are expected to arrive in the region in their respective LGUs, so they would be the coming days. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
12
| May 30-June 5, 2020
3 new COVID-19 cases tallied in Caraga region By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales
Three new cases of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Caraga region were confirmed by the Department of Health (DOH) Caraga. The patients are 26 years old, male, and a resident of Butuan City; 41 years old, male, and 37 years old, male, both residents of the province of Agusan del Sur. All of the patients have no preexisting medical condition and are currently asymptomatic and in stable condition.
United States of America and arrived in Manila on April 24 and tested negative on May 3. He arrived in in Nasipit Port in Agusan del Norte on May 24. The 41-year-old is an LSI from Cagayan de Oro City who arrived at the province on May 22. The former case is now under strict facility quarantine in an isolation facility in San Fransisco town while the latter is quarantined in the provincial quarantine facility. His residency is yet to be determined.
They were part of the recent batch of Returning Overseas Filipinos (ROFs) and Locally Stranded Individuals (LSIs) who returned to Caraga region in late May. “We have already done contact tracing and informed concerned According to the local individuals and local officials of government unit (LGU) of Agusan del concerned municipalities,� said Dr. Sur, the 37-year-old is an ROF from the Jacqueline Momville, Provincial Health May 30 - June 5, 2020 |
13
Officer of Agusan del Sur, during on Preparations have also been Sunday’s virtual press briefing via PTV made for the arrival of new batches Agusan del Norte. of individuals returning to the region. Around 700 Caraganons who have Meanwhile, the 26-year-old been stranded in Metro Manila for patient is now under strict facility more than two months are expected quarantine in Butuan City. to arrive on June 2. DOH Caraga stated that their agency is in close coordination among other local authorities for the conduct of contact tracing as well as monitoring of the ROFs and LSIs who are now in the region.
Caraga region previously had five confirmed cases. Four of these have recovered while one remains under strict facility quarantine. The number of confirmed cases have now totalled to eight. (DMNR/PIACaraga)
BIR-Caraga urges prompt tax payments By Venus L. Garcia
“The government needs your taxes to keep our government running and to continue to operate and finance especially during this challenging time. If you have the means and available fund, you may remit it now through our online facility or come directly to our office,” appealed Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) - Revenue District Office No. 17 director Jose Eric Furia to the taxpayers amid the crisis brought by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.
14
| May 30-June 5, 2020
Furia admitted a drop in tax collection by P300 million in the month of April in Caraga Region as an impact of the implemented community quarantine.
our taxpayers to pay their taxes if they have resources for payment. They may pay their taxes through online payment,” said Furia.
“The pandemic has really caused an unprecedented economic setback due to temporary closure of businesses, and thus, has triggered a downturn in the collection,” said Furia.
BIR-Caraga encouraged taxpayers to remit and settle their dues on time, as online facility is readily available even with the pandemic.
To address, therefore, the effect of COVID-19 in the country’s tax collection, Furia is reminding the taxpayers in the region to comply with the compulsory contribution to state revenue.
“The government needs our taxes especially during this time of crisis, as these will be used to support the response for the pandemic. So, we really need to do our obligation to pay,” said Shane Benolirao, business “That is why, despite the extension owner of a home-based printing of the deadline we are still requesting shop. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)
Caraga RTF vs COVID-19 gives go signal for MGCQ implementation By Amethyst Joy A. Galos
In compliance to the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases’ (IATF-EID) recommendation to place all low-risk areas, which includes the entire Caraga region, under Modified General Community Quarantine (MGCQ), the Regional Task Force for COVID-19 One Caraga Shield (RTF-COCS) pushes for the transition of the entire region to the said degree of community quarantine, including the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) and Enhanced Modified ECQ (MECQ) areas in Butuan City. May 30 - June 5, 2020 |
15
Effective June 1, establishments identified by the IATF under Categories I, II, and III will now be allowed full operations while those under Category IV, i.e., leisure and personal care services, shall be allowed partial operations. Movement of all persons shall now be allowed, therefore, quarantine passes will no longer be needed. However, to ensure crowd control, the local government unit (LGU) Butuan maintained the usage of Home Quarantine Pass (HQP) in select establishments such as supermarkets and wet markets. Individuals of ages 20 below will not be allowed entry in these establishments as well. Certain regulations on regional border control shall be maintained amid easement of strictness on regulations. Travellers and individuals who will be
passing through borders are required to present their IDs. While the IATF has permitted the conduct of religious gatherings under certain conditions, local religious bodies requested that they be allowed to cater more than prescribed number of participants during mass gatherings. The RTF then issued the Resolution No. 37, Series of 2020, requesting the national government for the provision of guidelines in observing such activities during MGCQ. During the RTF’s 7th Teleconference Meeting on May 28, the Task Force has also agreed to grant its concurrence through referendum, should there be urgent requests from the LGUs to implement ECQ in certain areas within their respective jurisdictions, in the event that local COVID-19 confirmed cases will rise. (NEDA Caraga/PIACaraga)
P7.4 Million DA’s expanded SURE aid fund benefits 296 farmers, fisherfolk By Fretcher Magatao
The Department of Agriculture through the Agricultural Credit Policy Council (DA-ACPC) distributes a total of P7.4 million cash assistance to 296 farmers and fisherfolk in Caraga whose incomes were affected by the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.
16
| May 30-June 5, 2020
The 296 farmers and fisherfolk beneficiaries are from the municipalities of Las Nieves, Nasipit, Buenavista and Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte and Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur. The financial assistance is released by Baug Carp Beneficiaries Multipurpose Cooperative and the Bayugan Achievers Multipurpose Cooperative as partner conduits. “The amount should be used to support the farming activities of our farmers despite the effects brought by the COVID-19,” said OIC-Assistant Regional Director for Operations Rebecca Atega. Atega shared that the government is working on making sure that food production is sustained by the food producers despite the challenges and restrictions of the pandemic. This loanable fund is under DA’s Ahon Lahat Pagkaing Sapat (ALPAS) Kontra sa COVID-19 or the Expanded SURE Aid and Recovery Project (SURE
COVID-19). The emergency and recovery credit assistance program would respond to the needs of the marginalized small farmers and fisherfolk (MSFF). Under the SURE COVID-19 loan program, eligible farmers and fisherfolk may borrow up to P25,000 per farming household, with no collateral, zero interest, and payable in 10 years. “The amount we received is a big help to us. I am grateful that through this, we can just continue to finance our farming activities,” said Lucia Salo, a farmer from Brgy. La Union, Cabadbaran City. DA-ACPC continues to partner with conduit lending institutions which include rural banks, cooperative banks, cooperatives, and viable nongovernment organizations (NGO) and associations that provide accessible and affordable credit to the borrowers in the countryside. (DA-Caraga/PIA Caraga) May 30 - June 5, 2020 |
17
DA Caraga promotes diversified home gardening
“Hunger is as real as the COVID-19,” said Secretary William Dar of the Department of Agriculture (DA). Thus, to help the family to have a sustainable food source amidst the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, DA Caraga promotes diversified farming through the CornVegetable Integrated and Diversified (COVID) Food Production Project launched last April 29.
sq.m. vacant lot. Interested participants either individual or group will just sendin the photo of their proposed area to DA Caraga’s official FB page. Technical personnel of DA Caraga will visit the area for an assessment.
DA will provide corn and vegetable seeds, garden tools, organic To push the promotion, DA fertilizers, chicken, and technical Caraga posed a challenge to Butuan assistance to a qualified individual or City residents dubbed as ALPAS COVID group participants. Challenge. Earlier, DA Caraga Livestock Qualified to accept the challenge Program handed-in native chicken to must have an area of at least 200-400 the three initial recipients of the project
18
| May 30-June 5, 2020
namely; Morris Nortega of Km.3 Baan, Cecile Tiu Espenido of Brgy. Bonbon and Soledad Calo of Brgy. Bit-os, Butuan City.They also received seeds and farm tools.
Jekem Sanchez, DA Caraga Livestock coordinator said that it is ideal that the limited space in the home will be utilized for crops and animal raising to have a steady supply of food.
“Through integrated and The 402nd Infantry Brigade, Philippine Army in Bancasi, Butuan City diversified gardening, you can have a variety of produce from your own is also a recipient of the project. home, a big help as we are still “This program is the fulfillment of experiencing limited movement due to quarantine measures imposed by the my long plan to maximize our vacant government,” he said. space but I cannot proceed due to my work, but the imposition of the DA technical staff will regularly Enhanced Community Quarantine, visit the project recipients to check the gave me an ample time while at home, progress and to give technical advice so this program of DA is a blessing in as needed. disguise,” Nortega said. Diversified home garden is a “With the threat of the pandemic, it is not good that we will always depend on the government ration, in our own way we can sustain as long as we have the will,” he added.
practical approach since it includes a variety of crop in a single field; incorporating livestock; rotating crops; and conserving natural areas in the landscapes around the farm. (DA Caraga/PIA Caraga)
PNP-13 records zero sexual abuse complaint vs cops at checkpoints
Police Brigadier General Joselito T. Esquivel, Jr, regional director of Philippine National Police Caraga (PNP Caraga), released in a statement Monday, May 25, that PNP Caraga has received zero complaint against police frontliners manning the established community quarantine control points (CQCP) in the region, following the alleged sexual abuse against women has been committed by police personnel in other region amid the quarantine period. May 30 - June 5, 2020 |
19
Record from Regional Women and Children Protection Desk (RWCPD) reveals that since the start of quarantine period in Caraga on March 17, 2020, their office has not received any complaint against Caraga cops manning the control points for committing any form of sexual abuses. The Philippine National Police, as one of the members of Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Disease, are among those personnel manning the CQCP along with the personnel from the Department of Health, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and Bureau of Fire Protectionwhich was established in line with government’s fight against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
earlier encouraging victims of alleged sexual abuses to file complaints against erring police officers who committed sexual abuses against women and emphasized that the PNP organization will never tolerate any form of physical or sexual abuse against women especially now that we are facing a global health crisis. “If you have any complaints against our policemen committing sexual abuses in quarantine control points in the region, you may immediately report to Women and Children Protection Desk at your local police station,” BGen. Esquivel said.
“Rest assured that your reports and complaints will be given appropriate action and corresponding penalty will be given to Police Officers who Meanwhile, General Archie will be proven to have committed Francisco F. Gamboa, chief of Philippine such malicious acts,” he added. (PNPNational Police, issued a statement Caraga/PIA-Caraga)
20
| May 30-June 5, 2020
MCCT beneficiary shares SAP grants to needy
Today, the world is still filled with the horrors of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. During this time of crisis, most people would only care about their safety and food security. However, in a small purok in Barangay Carpenito, lives a Mandaya woman who has a charitable heart for the needy. Robilyn, 29, is married to Marven Coralde since 2010. They are blessed with four children namely Marbabes, Marlyn Rose, Mark Robven, and Marven Jr. They have been living in the municipality of Tagbina, Surigao del Sur for 10 years already, but she is originally from Cebu City. She did not finish any degree and was not able to secure a decent job. Her husband is currently working in Laguna as a construction worker
earning a minimum wage of P7,000.00 a month. Thus, she has to attend to the needs of their four children alone; but she doesn’t see this as a burden. “Usahay naay mga panahon nga lisod. Pero kung unsa ang mapadala sa akong bana, amo kining paiguan para sa mga panginahanglanon, labi na sa mga bata (There are times when it gets really hard. But whatever my husband sends us, we make sure we budget it properly, especially to address our May 30 - June 5, 2020 |
21
children’s need),” she shared. As a beneficiary of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) for 4 years now, Robilyn ably manages their resources well. But the coming of COVID-19 is a different story. Due to the strict implementation of the enhanced community quarantine in almost all Regions, her husband cannot immediately provide their needs like before because his work was affected. Fortunately, the National Government timely actions, especially in the implementation of the Emergency Subsidy Program (ESP) under the Social Amelioration Programs (SAP), they were able to survive. All 4Ps beneficiaries were automatically covered by the program as eligible recipients of the said subsidy. This was a breather to Robilyn, who during the time of the declaration of community quarantine mid- March, was so worried of the welfare of her family. After withdrawing the subsidy amounting to P3,650 (rice subsidy and health grant not included), she immediately bought groceries and a sack of rice. Her close neighbors, who happened to be members of the program too, told her to save a portion of the subsidy because the community quarantine might be extended. Little did they know that she was up to something remarkable. From what Robilyn bought, she packed 3-5 kilos of rice, coffee, sardines, and noodles. After that, she gave it to their neighbors who were
22
| May 30-June 5, 2020
greatly affected by the quarantine. When asked why she did it despite being needy herself, she said it was just right sharing her blessings. It is just so ironic that those who have less, and are also affected by the pandemic would be the ones to selflessly share the little that they have. It is amazing how those who are less fortunate in life – those who have less, are actually the ones who give more. “Nabati nako ang ilang kalisod. Wala ko naguol sa mga ginikanan kay mukaon man sila og bisan unsa. Ang akong gikagul-an ang ilang mga bata. Mao nga nakadesisyon mi sa akong bana nga mutabang sa mga naglisod bisan sa gamay nga pamaagi (I felt their struggles. I am not worried of the needs of the adults/parents, but I worried about the children. That’s why my husband and I decided to help them even in our own little way),” she ended with a smile. (Social Marketing Section/DSWD Field Office Caraga/ PIA-Caraga)
DOTr Caraga may paalaala sa publiko hingil sa ipinatutupad na patakaran sa ilalim ng MGCQ By Nora C. Lanuza
Sa pagpapatupad ng modified general community quarantine (MGCQ) sa rehiyon ng Caraga, nanawagan si Department of Transportation (DOTr) Caraga acting regional director Engr. Nordy Plaza sa mga Caraganon na may expired licenses na mag umpisa na sa pagrenew dahil mahigpit na silang magmomonitor sa mga ito. Ayon kay director Plaza, lahat ng nag-expire na registration at licenses sa panahon na community quarantine ay binigyan ng hanggang anim napong (60) araw na palugit para makapagrenew.
Dagdag pa ng opisyal, sa boong Pilipinas kasama ang Caraga region sa dalawampu’t apat (24) na pilot sites para sa Land Transportation Management System, isang improvement system ng pagkuha ng bagong lisensya. May 30 - June 5, 2020 |
23
Ayon naman kay Urbano Maglines, Jr., operations chief ng LTO Caraga, mahigpit pa rin ang pagbabantay sa mga daan at highways kahit nasa MGCQ ang rehiyon lalo na’t dahandahan ng nagsibalikan ang mga sasakyan sa kalsada.
ng publiko ang pinakaprayoridad ng ahensya.
Sa lungsod din nga Cabadbaran, ayon kay district supervisor Engr. Eugene P. Rula, mula ng magbalik operasyon ang district, sa loob ng limang (5) araw na operasyon, nagkaroon sila ng P1,230,008.50 revenue collections Dagdag pa ni Maglines, maliban mula sa registration, licensing at law sa road safety, proteksyon sa kalusugan enforcement. (NCLM/PIA Caraga)
Kadiwa store for coco products opens in Butuan By Alexander Lopez
COCO-BASED PRODUCTS. The Philippine Coconut Authority 13 (Caraga), led by its manager Joel B. Oclarit (standing, 3rd from right), opens a Kadiwa store that will sell various products made from coconut, at the ground floor of its office in Butuan City on Thursday (May 28, 2020). The store will also serve as an additional market for the products of coconut farmers in the region. (Photo courtesy of PCA-13)
The Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) 13 (Caraga) launched on Thursday the Kadiwa store that will sell coconut-based products made by local farmers.
24
| May 30-June 5, 2020
The coconut-based products the region who make various coconutstore was set up at the ground floor of based products. the PCA-13 office in Montilla Boulevard here. “This will also mean additional income (for) the coconut farmers in the “This is part of the call of area. This will become an additional Agriculture Secretary William Dar to market for their products,” Oclarit said. provide affordable products to the people, especially during this time of Among the groups that have the pandemic,” said PCA-13 manager already supplied the store with VCO, Joel B. Oclarit, who led the opening of coco sugar, and coconut flour are the Kadiwa store. farmers from Rosario in Agusan del Sur and the towns of Hinatuan and Madrid “While the Department of in Surigao del Sur. Agriculture (DA) runs rolling stores for vegetables, meat, and fishes, we at He said they were expecting the arrival PCA will concentrate on products of more coconut-based products next made from coconut,” Oclarit added. week from other farmers in the region. Available at the store – dubbed “Kadiwa ni Ani at Kita” – are coconut cooking oil, virgin coconut oil (VCO), coco sugar, processed foods, coconutbased beauty products, vinegar, and coconut flour.
Oclarit also reminded the public to observe the protocols when visiting the store by wearing a face mask and maintaining physical distancing.
PCA-13 personnel will also provide customers with sanitizers and measure Supplies for the store will be their body temperature using a thermal provided by coconut farmer groups in scanner, he said. (PNA) May 30 - June 5, 2020 |
25
PROVINCIAL NEWS
AgNor’s scholarship program intensified By Jennifer P. Gaitano
The provincial government of Agusan del Norte has intensified the implementation of its scholarship program to assist those youth in poverty line to be able to get a degree and improve their way of living. Jerry Ampo, Jr., who was a graduate of Bachelor of Science in Business Administration recounted how thankful he was being a beneficiary of the provincial scholarship program in Agusan del Norte. He also called on all other scholars to study hard and achieve their dreams in life, as not all are given the opportunity to finish a course in college. “To my peers who were lucky to be part of this program, please study well and give your best because not all are given the privilege to have this kind opportunity to study and finish a degree in college,” said Ampo. There are three types of the provincial scholarship program in Agusan del Norte. First is the provincial special educational scholarship program for the qualified Senior High School graduates, college level students, or even drop-outs who wanted to graduate from their respective college courses. Under this program, scholars are given a maximum of P20,000.00 per semester.
Second is the Provincial Indigenous Scholarship Program. This is intended for the indigenous peoples (IPs) who live in the province and they are given a maximum of P50,000.00 every semester. The third is the Provincial Medical Scholarship Program particularly for those who passed the National Medical Admission Test. The provincial government helps them finish their courses and provides a maximum of P100,000.00 per semester. According to Maria Eleanor Tupaz, project evaluation officer of Agusan del Norte, with the positive impact brought about by the implementation of scholarship programs to the youth sector, the local chief executives are also giving additional slots every year, so that more could benefit from the government’s educational assistance. Meanwhile, this has already been an ordinance issued by Agusan del Norte Governor Dale Corvera, in order to help more of the Agusanon youths. (JPG/NCLM/PIA-Caraga) May 30 - June 5, 2020 |
27
TESDA-AdN chief visits proposed veggie production site
By Robert E. Roperos
Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)Agusan del Norte Acting Provincial Director Liza B. Budtan, together with Supervising TESD Specialist Buenafe G. Enaya visited recently the proposed vegetable production site in Sitio Tagkiling, Brgy. Anticala, this city. With PD Budtan are the Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) of Brgy. Anticala – Kagawad Diomedes; Farm School Administrator of Lasco Demo Crops Farm – Romy S. Lasco; and Chieftain of the Manobo Tribal Community – Robinson Dapenagan. According to Enaya, Brgy. Anticala is one of the priority barangays of this city and the province of Agusan del Norte for which the Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) should look into the needs of the community, as a response of the national government in combatting insurgency.
(RTR) where PRLEC has already started its program implementation on “Gulayan Village” before the community quarantine took place due to COVID-19 pandemic, Brgy. Anticala is another target of the cluster so that services of the government will “Like in Brgy. San Antonio in the be brought to the local community,” municipality of Remedios T. Romualdez Enaya added.
28
| May 30-June 5, 2020
Meanwhile, PD Budtan is hoping that the program will be implemented as soon as the global crisis on COVID-19 will put to an end. “We should be ready for the implementation of these projects of PRLEC so that when the global crisis ends, we will immediately pursue what the cluster has started in RTR and continue the project implementation in other priority barangays of the city and the province of Agusan del Norte,” Budtan said. The PRLEC has identified the following barangays in the province as priority areas: Brgy. Cuyago in Jabonga, Brgy. Jaliobong in Kitcharao, Brgy. San
Isidro in Santiago, Brgy. Mahaba in Cabadbaran City, Brgys. San Antonio and Tagbongabong in RTR, Brgys. Casiklan and Durian in Las Nieves, Brgy. Anticala in Butuan City, Brgy. Simbalan in Buenavista, Brgy. Camagong in Nasipit, and Brgy. Poblacion in Carmen. The provincial office through Dir. Budtan and Ms. Enaya also handed in 50 facemasks to the Manobo tribal community as a way of supporting their officials and members against COVID-19. The facemasks were produced by the Northern Mindanao School of Fisheries (NMSF). (TESDA Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)
AgSur farmers to get P125.8-M support under RRP By Rhea Abao
The Department of Agriculture (DA) in Caraga is providing rice seeds and fertilizer subsidies to farmers in the region for the wet cropping season. Considered as the region’s riceproducing province, Agusan del Sur will be getting P125.8-Million or 60 percent of the P207-Million allocated budget in the region through the Rice Resiliency Project (RRP).
based on recommendations.
An estimated 30,000 rice farmers covering 32,277 hectares in the province will benefit under the three subprojects - Rice Competitiveness Enhancement The project targets to increase local Fund (RCEF) Enhanced, the Expanded rice production through the use of high- Inbred Rice Production, and the quality seeds and sufficient fertilization Expanded Hybrid Rice Production. May 30 - June 5, 2020 |
29
In time with the celebration of the Farmers and Fisherfolk’s Month, DACaraga Regional Technical Director for Operations Rebecca R. Atega leads the ceremonial turnover of the RRP interventions to Governor Santiago B. Cane, Jr. of the Province of Agusan del Sur held at Datu Makapandong, Naliyagan Grounds, Prosperidad last May 26. The local government unit’s participation in aligning their actions with RRP is vital in the success of the implementation of the project.
30
| May 30-June 5, 2020
“We are ready to help to make this project work. We are committed to expanding our agriculture extension support for the benefit of our farmers here in the province,” said Governor Cane. According to DA Secretary William D. Dar, with the support mechanism properly in place and the policy support laid on the ground, RRP will attain its intended results. In the region, around 60,000 rice farmers from the five provinces will be assisted by the RRP. (DA-Caraga-RAFIS/ PIA-Agusan del Sur)
DAR’s ARBold Move Project rolls out in AgSur By Rechel D. Besonia
During this chaotic time of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) finds the means to extend assistance to the affected Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs). The inception of this program dubbed “PaSSOver: ARBold move for the Deliverance of our farmers from COVID 19 Pandemic” is the agency’s response to Republic Act 11469 or the “Bayanihan to Heal as One Act,” which intends to provide immediate and essential support to the farmer-beneficiaries, mitigate the
impact brought about by the ongoing community quarantine and address the demands affecting the agricultural sector upon the start of the “new normal.” A total of 992 qualified ARBs all over the province has received the supplemental food and non-food May 30 - June 5, 2020 |
31
packs led personally by PARPO II Jamil you for these goods that we have P. Amatonding Jr. and other members received. A big help for us in this time of the Management Committee. of crisis),” Libahan said. PARPO Amatonding said that although the packs cannot be compared to those relief goods given by the LGUs and other agencies, however, it is enough to withstand hunger for the next three days or more.
The ARBold Move Project has four main components: (1) Support to ARBOs as Front liners in the Food Supply Chain; (2) Farm Productivity Assistance to ARBs; (3) Livelihood Support for Women in Crisis Situation and (4) Package of Supplemental Food and He further emphasized that DAR, Non-Food Items. (DAR-Agusan del Sur/ through the directive of Secretary John PIA-Agusan del Sur) R. Castriciones has always value the importance of the farmers as the front liners in terms of food security to ensure that there is a constant supply of food in the table in time of a global crisis. “Being religious is not enough to show compassion, but by taking the opportunity for kindness and making a difference to people’s lives no matter how big or small,” he added. Arturo Libahan, 70, one of the lucky beneficiaries was beyond grateful upon handing the food packs with rice, noodles, canned goods, bath soaps, washable masks, and vitamin C. “Daghang salamat sa DAR sa padayon nga pag amuma kanamo nga mga mag-uuma. Salamat niining ayuda mga among nadawat. Dakong tabang kanamo sa panahon karon sa krisis (Thank you so much DAR for the care you showed to us, farmers. Thank
32
| May 30-June 5, 2020
LGU-Dinagat Islands distributes packed meals to frontliners By Venus L. Garcia
To help relieve the frontliners from enormous strain at work and to give support to the persons under mandatory quarantine who are accommodated at the municipal care and containment center in Cagdianao, Dinagat Islands, the provincial government of Dinagat Islands distributed healthy meals to them. Governor Arelen “Kaka� Bag-ao personally went to the market to buy the ingredients and helped in cooking and preparing some 100 packed meals.
These were distributed to the frontliners of the Rural Health Units, Philippine National Police and Bureau of Fire Protection who are deployed to quarantine checkpoints and different May 30 - June 5, 2020 |
33
barangay health centers. The Meanwhile, municipal mayor governor also checked their situation Adolfo “Denden” Longos appreciated at work. the assistance provided by the provincial government of Dinagat To protect the communities from Islands to the frontliners. the threat of the deadly coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), Gov. Bag-ao The frontliners were thankful as also urged all the residents to cooperate well for the kind of support. by staying at home and to follow the imposed guidelines. LGU-Dinagat Islands also conducted the same activity in the She also thanked the government municipalities of Tubajon and Loreto. line agencies for the delivery of services, the private entities and other The LGU-Dinagat Islands remains organizations that extended support steadfast to respond even for COVID-19 through financial, food, and medical worst-case scenario. (SDR/VLG/PIAequipment donations. Surigao del Norte)
P62.5M to support ECQ affected Caraga farmers, fisherfolk By Fretcher Magatao
The Department of Agriculture through the Agricultural Credit Policy Council (DA-ACPC) allocates P62.5 million assistance to farmers and fisherfolk in Caraga whose incomes were affected by the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The loanable fund is under DA’s Ahon Lahat Pagkaing Sapat (ALPAS) Kontra sa COVID-19 or the Expanded SURE Aid and Recovery Project (SURE COVID-19).
small farmers and fisherfolk (MSFF) and agri-fishery based micro and small enterprises (MSE).
Under the SURE COVID-19 loan program, eligible farmers and fisherfolk may This emergency and recovery borrow up to P25,000 per household, credit assistance program would with no collateral, zero interest, and respond to the needs of the marginalized payable in 10 years.
34
| May 30-June 5, 2020
“The fund would help our farmers and fisherfolk recover from their losses during this quarantine period,” said DACaraga regional executive director Abel James I. Monteagudo.
or the ones that participate the Kadiwa on Wheels that serve the identified barangays in different municipalities and cities in the region.
Monteagudo said that this initiative from the DA helps our food producers continue their agri-fishery activities and contribute to a sustained food production.
The Kadiwa on Wheels is a DAinitiated marketing strategy where MSEs, farmers’ and fisherfolk’s groups sell their produce directly to the place of the consumers at reasonable prices.
The available loanable fund for the region can cater to at least 2,500 farmers and fisherfolk and DA-ACPC targets to release the funds by the end of May 2020.
DA-ACPC records a total of 10 MSE applicants so far from all over the region. It taps its network of partner lending conduits to implement the SURE COVID-19 loan program.
On the other hand, eligible MSEs may avail of up to P10 million, zero interest, and payable in five years. These enterprises may be a single proprietorship, partnership, corporation, cooperative, or association. DA will prioritize the MSEs that will supply the Kadiwa ni Ani at Kita outlets
The partner conduits include rural banks, cooperative banks, cooperatives, and viable nongovernment organizations (NGOs) and associations that provide accessible and affordable credit to the borrowers in the countryside. (DA-Caraga/PIASurigao del Norte) May 30 - June 5, 2020 |
35
Mining companies sa Caraga, tumulong sa mga apektadong komunidad By Venus L. Garcia
Sa gitna ng pagsubok na nararanasan ng bansa dulot ng coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), ang mining companies sa buong rehiyon ng Caraga ay nagtutulungan sa diwa ng bayanihan. Ito ay alinsunod na rin sa memorandum na inilabas ni Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) acting director Atty. Wilfredo G. Moncano na nagpahintulot na i-realign ang unutilized funds ng kanilang social development and management program (SDMP) upang masuportahan ang apektadong mga komunidad.
36
| May 30-June 5, 2020
Base sa rekord noong Mayo 27, umabot na sa mahigit P125 milyong piso ang narealign ng 17 mining companies sa Caraga kung saan mahigit P106.8 milyon na nito ang nagamit. “Base sa nasabing guidelines ito ay naglalayong suportahan ang apektadong impact at non-impact na
mga komunidad dulot ng COVID-19,� ang kanilang mga shuttle buses sabi ni MGB-13 regional director Glenn upang matugonan ang problema sa Marcelo Noble. transportasyon ng mga residente. Kabilang sa naipamahagi sa mga mining at non-mining communities at frontliners ay personal protective equipment, hygiene kits, disinfectants, medical supplies, medicines, vitamins at medical apparatus, food supplies at packs, assorted vegetable seeds, survival garden kits, service ambulance, truck at mga banka.
Sa munisipyo ng Claver, Surigao del Norte, natugonan din ang problema ng mga magsasaka sa pamamagitan ng pagbibigay ng farm equipment.
Ang mga empleyado ng MGB13 ay nag ambag-ambag din ng pera mula sa kanilang sariling bulsa na umaabot ng P166,000 at ito ay ibinigay Nakatanggap din ng relief packs bilang cash assistance sa Surigao del ang indigenous peoples community na Norte Medical Society. Mamanwa. Samantala, ang isa sa Tutulong rin ang mga minahan sa pinakamalaking mining companies sa pagpapatayo ng isolation rooms para Surigao del Norte ay nakapag-ambag magamit sa lokalidad. na ng P8.1 milyon kung saan 7,000 na pamilya o 35,000 na indibidwal ang Nagsagawa pa ng disinfection sa nakinabang sa relief assistance. (SDR/ mga host communities at pinapagamit VLG/PIA-Surigao del Norte) May 30 - June 5, 2020 |
37
LGU Dinagat Islands creates ‘online palengke’ By Susil D. Ragas
To help ease the burden of shopping and prevent its constituents from going out, the provincial government of Dinagat Islands has created the online marketing dubbed as “People’s Online Palengke” or POP. The provincial government has created the Facebook group “POP” to give a venue for Dinagatnons to buy and sell different products, including basic goods and necessities without going out and in just a click away. The POP is also part of the provincial government‘s coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) prevention protocols to encourage citizens to stay at home. Provincial Information Officer Jeff Crisostomo bared that in spite of limited movement, through the help of communication via social media, they have seen the rise of online buying and
38
| May 30-June 5, 2020
selling among Dinagatnons. He said that they created the group in order to bring together citizens who want to advertise their goods and services and those who are looking for products to purchase. Crisostomo added that POP Facebook group is being managed by the provincial government through the Provincial Information Office (PIO) and all transactions shall be between the buyer and the seller only, so he encouraged everyone to be cautious and respectful in their interactions. (Susil D. Ragas/Dinagat Islands-PIO/ PIA-Dinagat Islands)
Surigao del Sur receives test kits, PPEs By Nida Grace P. Barcena
The Office of the Civil Defense (OCD) in Caraga Region has distributed rapid test kits and personal protective equipment (PPEs) in Surigao del Sur, an official from the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) said.
According to PDRRMO chief Abel de Guzman, the province was among the recipients of the 5,250 rapid test kits and PPEs from OCD on May 12, 2020.
government to the ASTMMC, Andres Soriano Memorial Hospital, Isidro M. Orlan Memorial Clinic and Hospital Inc., five district hospitals, four community hospitals, and 19 local DRMM offices.
De Guzman said it will be distributed to the city governments of Last May 18, OCD delivered Tandag and Bislig and Adela Serra Ty another set of medical supplies Memorial Medical Center (ASTMMC). composed of 440 protective suits, 440 disposable isolation gowns, 440 Earlier this month, OCD has headcovers, 440 KN95 masks, 440 delivered medical supplies composed goggles, and 440 surgical face masks. of 280 sets of PPEs; 52 face shields; 84 goggles; 2,400 pieces of gloves; and Based on the report, the said 11,080 face masks (2,780 pieces of KN95 supplies will be given to the Provincial masks, and 8,300 pieces of surgical Health Office-PESU, Provincial DOHface masks). Office, Andres Soriano Memorial Hospital, five district hospitals, and four The said medical supplies community hospitals of the province. were distributed by the provincial (PIA-Surigao del Sur) May 30 - June 5, 2020 |
39
51 stranded Hinatuanons return home
The local government unit (LGU) of Hinatuan facilitated and fetched again another stranded Hinatuanons on May 29. Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) chief James Soria personally met with them at the provincial boundary.
All of the 51 stranded individuals brought with them approved travel authority from the Philippine National Police and medical Hinatuanons from Davao City were certificate from the City/Municipal fetched and returned home after the Health Office, from their point of origin. LGU strictly complied to the protocols and processes of assisting the locally They were dropped off at the stranded individuals (LSIs). municipal quarantine facility for mandatory 14-day quarantine after Mayor Shem G. Garay, who the orientation by the personnel of the also met with the returnees at the Municipal Health Office (MHO) led by quarantine facility, stressed that MHO chief Dr. Emelie S. Viola. Hinatuan is accepting the entry of LSIs It can be recalled that the local coming from outside the Hinatuan but government first staged the Balik- on the staggered basis because of the Hinatuan: Oplan Sundo program limitations of its quarantine facilities. on May 13 where 21 stranded (LGU-Hinatuan/PIA-Surigao del Sur)
40
| May 30-June 5, 2020
LSIs, ROFs to undergo rapid testing in Tagbina town To ensure the safety of every Tagbinanhon, the local government unit (LGU) of Tagbina, Surigao del Sur headed by Mayor Generoso Naraiso has recently purchased medical supplies, Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs), and rapid testing kits in preparation for the Balik Probinsya Program and repatriation of the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).
It was learned that LGU Tagbina will implement a mandatory Rapid Antibody Testing to those returning Tagbinanhons coming from the highrisk areas of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Those found negative shall undergo a 14-day quarantine to the designated barangay isolation facility, while those who tested positive shall be placed at the municipal isolation
facility for further medical examination. Meanwhile, those individuals found with mild or moderate symptoms will be referred to Hinatuan District Hospital, while those found with severe symptoms will be referred to Adela Serra Ty Memorial Medical Center (ASTMMC) in Tandag City, as per the recommendation of the municipal health office chief or the chief of the hospital. (PIA-Surigao del Sur) May 30 - June 5, 2020 |
41
MINDANAO NEWS
MinDA eyes Spanish sardines industry to end Zambo Norte poverty
By Prexx Marnie Kate Trozo
The Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) bared that with the series of visits to Zamboanga del Norte, it has discovered that the Spanish sardines industry of the province would help reduce poverty incidence and improve the lives of the people. In a Facebook post on Thursday, MinDA Secretary Emmanuel Piñol noted that Zamboanga del Norte has a 500-kilometer coastline facing one of the country’s richest fishing grounds, the Sulu Sea where the “Tamban” or the sardines fish jump to the shore right after a threemonth closed fishing season which runs from December to the end of February of every year.
“I have always believed that the poverty incidence level is the best barometer of effective governance but at the same time I am convinced that empowerment and capacitation, instead of dole-outs, should be the guiding policy in addressing poverty,” he said. Piñol said that a target has been set for Zamboanga del Norte to be taken out of the list of the country’s 20 Poorest Provinces in five years. May 30 - June 5, 2020 |
43
“This is the formula that we will embrace -- identify the strengths of an area, develop and strengthen it and set a target and timetable. This will be the same formula which we will use as we wade into the ring in the fight against poverty in the other provinces of Mindanao,” he added.
improve their skills in making Spanish Sardines while supporting them with the basic equipment and infrastructure for the industry,” he said.
Piñol also bared that the wife of Zamboanga del Norte Governor Roberto Uy, former Dipolog City Mayor Evelyn Uy, has already provided the template as Being the MinDA chair, he urged she succeeded in organizing Dipolog’s the workers of the agency that even as women into a Spanish Sardines production they pursue such big-ticket projects like crew. the Mindanao Railway System, Economic Zones, and others, the poverty incidence “She established the processing in the different provinces should also be facility along with the equipment and given focus. provided them with everything needed to produce bottled Spanish Sardines which “Discover the strengths and she buys and sells to a hungry market. resources of each province and use those MinDA will work on this with the help as the foundations in building a people- of other line agencies of government, based economy which could withstand including its partner ODAs (overseas the shifting political sands. This was my development assistance) who have been marching order to the MinDA staff,” Piñol involved in the peace and development said. efforts in Mindanao,” he added. “I have decided to establish a MinDA satellite office in Roxas, Zamboanga del Norte because I believe that if we really would like to fight poverty, we should jump inside the ring and do the fighting, he added. He said that the making of bottled Spanish Sardines, which is premium compared to the canned Sardines with tomato sauce, has long been a home industry in the province but the lack of access to the market of fishermen’s families prevented it from attaining its full potentials in improving people’s lives.
He also vowed to assist the poor fishing families in the coastal areas, as MinDA will craft programs for those living in the agricultural and upland areas of the 700,000-hectare province. Piñol also said that tree farming, along with high-value products like cacao, coffee, mango, abaca, and others could also help reduce poverty in the hinterlands of the province.
“In our consultative meetings with the leaders of the province, it was agreed that MinDA will partner with the local “The thrust now is to organize the government unit in implementing these wives and daughters of fishermen and programs,” he said. (PNA)
44
| May 30-June 5, 2020
MinDA starts groundwork in BP2 villages
By Prexx Marnie Kate Trozo
IT’S A GO. Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Secretary Emmanuel Piñol (right) poses with Senator Christopher Lawrence Go after a meeting in Malacañang on Monday (June 1, 2020) for the “Balik Probinsya, Bagong Pag-asa” (BP2) program.” The meeting resulted to the approval and acceptance of MinDA’s proposal to roll out the BP2 program with an initial three pilot projects. (Photo lifted from MinDA Secretary Emmanuel Piñol’s FB Page)
The Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) started this week the groundwork in the three resettlement villages under the “Balik Probinsya, Bagong Pag-asa (BP2)” program in Zamboanga del Norte and Lanao del Norte with the establishment of Project Management Offices in each of the three projects, an official said Tuesday. In a Facebook post, MinDA Secretary Emmanuel Piñol bared that the meeting presided by BP2 Council Chairman and Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea in Malacañang, the Council Secretariat headed by National Housing Authority (NHA) General Manager Marcelino
Escalada Jr. approved and accepted MinDA’s proposal to roll out the BP2 program with an initial three pilot projects. Senator Christopher Lawrence Go, the main proponent of the BP2 program, also attended the meeting along with Social Welfare and Development May 30 - June 5, 2020 |
45
Undersecretary Aimee Neri.
On June 4-5, the vetting and validation of applicants by local “MinDA’s proposals were the results government units after which the list of of a series of consultations conducted with selected families who have indicated the local governments of both provinces their preference for agriculture activities over a period of three weeks,” he said. will be returned to the BP2 Secretariat. The pilot areas for the BP2 Model Resettlements with 200 families each are: Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte which is proposing a village where the main activity would be organic broiler chicken and vegetable production; Sergio Osmeña, Zamboanga del Norte for highvalue vegetables and free-range chicken production; and Kalawit, Zamboanga del Norte for tree farming with cacao and coffee intercrop and free-range chicken production. “Each of the model ‘Balik’ pilot villages will have housing facilities which the beneficiary-families will pay back in the long term. The families will be provided with livelihood support funds and subsistence allowance by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) while other member agencies of the BP2 Council will provide added support programs,” Piñol said.
On June 8-26, the location of families and start of health quarantine protocols and social preparation by the Department of Health (DOH) and DSWD. June 27-30 will be scheduled for the actual transfer of the families from Metro Manila to their selected provincial destinations where they will be housed in temporary shelters. July 1-15 is the start of skills training for both men and women members of the families conducted by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and continued health monitoring.
“The construction of houses and livelihood facilities up to completion will be on July 16. The first model resettlement villages along with the livelihood facilities are expected to be completed Apart from that, he said MinDA by October 2020. The three model will also propose to the Department of villages will serve as the template in the Tourism (DOT) that the BP2 model villages implementation of other ‘Balik’ projects in be included in its agri-tourism program. other parts of the country,” Piñol said. He added that the BP2 meeting held in Manila on Monday has also come up with the following timetable of activities: June 2-3 is the submission of Lanao Del Norte and Zamboanga del Norte the list of applicant-families for vetting and validation.
46
| May 30-June 5, 2020
The BP2 program implemented through an Executive Order issued by President Rodrigo Duterte aims to decongest the urban centers by creating jobs and income opportunities in the provinces. (PNA)
NATIONAL NEWS
SEC. MARTIN ANDANAR PCOO
NEWS CORNER
Andanar sees need to promote gov’t Covid-19 programs Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar on Friday emphasized the need to promote the national government’s programs aimed at addressing the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic in the country. In a keynote speech during the fifth Covid-19 virtual town hall meeting, Andanar urged the local governments, public information officers, and youth leaders to help President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration in keeping the public updated about the ongoing efforts to combat Covid-19.
48
| May 30-June 5, 2020
Andanar said Filipinos should stay informed to know that President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration is doing to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus. “Communication is the primary instrument of dissemination for every Filipino to know, understand, follow, and believe the magnitude of care and support from our President and our government during this pandemic and beyond,” he said. He made the call as he stressed that the spread of false information about the government’s Covid-19 response being peddled by “noncredible” and “unreliable” sources could be prevented through the collective efforts of the workers in the government. “It is imperative that only the truth from the officials and experts concerned will be released to eradicate misinformation and disinformation coming from non-credible, unreliable sources,” Andanar said. The PCOO has launched the website covid19.gov.ph to stop the proliferation of fake news and provide the public with accurate information about the Covid-19 pandemic. The virtual portal serves as a one-stop source for people who are looking for news and resources about Covid-19. Amid the pandemic, Andanar said the government is taking
advantage of the use of technology in community quarantine communicating with the public. Andanar said.
protocols,”
“One way or another, we have Andanar said the government already cope with the situation,” he is also ready for the reopening of the economy for more sectors after Duterte said. relaxed the quarantine restrictions in Andanar said Filipinos should the country. know that the government’s national He said the public can expect the plan covers the protection of their “Kalusugan (Health), Kabuhayan “balancing act between the health (Livelihood), Kaayusan (Order), and of our people and the health of our economy” starting June 1. Kinabukasan (Future).” He added that the government remains focused on helping the displaced workers through the Department of Trade and Industry’s PHP1-billion finance rehabilitation support for the formal employees and the Department of Labor and Employment’s various programs for informal workers. “We communicate as one, cascades the national programs concerning the Covid-19 pandemic, to the information officers of the local government units, including regular updates, guidelines, and current
“President Rodrigo Duterte will lead our people into a transitioning phase,” Andanar said. “Movements of people and the opening of business, although still limited, are intended to revive the economy while securing the health and safety measures of every individual.” Metro Manila, Davao City, Cagayan Valley, Calabarzon, Pangasinan, and Albay would be placed under general community quarantine (GCQ), while the rest of the country would be put under modified GCQ beginning June 1. (Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos/PNA) May 30 - June 5, 2020 |
49
SSS extends anew its contribution payment deadline to June 15
The Social Security System (SSS) on Tuesday announced that it is extending the deadline of contribution payments until June 15, 2020. The new extension covers contribution payments of all household employers, self-employed, voluntary and non-working spouse members for the first quarter of 2020, and contribution payments of all regular employers for February, March, and April 2020.
over-the-counter transactions through SSS branches, and its bank and nonbank partners. “Individual members can pay their contributions through Moneygment at the My.SSS web portal on our website, PayMaya through the SSS Mobile App, Bayad Center Mobile App, or through the online banking facility of Security Bank for those who have a deposit account with them,” Ignacio said.
Employers with approved installment proposals under the Contribution Penalty Condonation Program also have until June 15, 2020, to deposit their post-dated checks due in February, March, April, and May “Regular employers can also pay 2020. through bank web facilities such as the Bank of the Philippine Islands - Bizlink, SSS President and CEO Aurora C. Security Bank Corporation Digibanker, Ignacio said the extension aims to give Union Bank of the Philippines, or through members and employers more time the eGov BancNet online. Household to pay contributions since restrictions employers, on the other hand, can pay caused by the coronavirus disease through the Security Bank Corporation 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has only Digibanker,” she added. been eased recently. However, no contributions paid Ignacio urged members and retroactively by a self-employed, employers to not wait for the last voluntary, or non-working spouse minute in paying their contributions and member will be used in determining his/ encouraged them to use online and her eligibility for any benefit arising from mobile payment facilities aside from a contingency wherein the date of
50
| May 30-June 5, 2020
payment is within or after the semester As public health and safety of contingency. remain the top priorities of the SSS, it reminds transacting members and Payment deadlines of employers employers to follow guidelines issued for applicable months after April by the government to reduce the risk 2020 and payment deadlines of self- of exposure to COVID-19. employed, voluntary, and non-working spouse members for the applicable For more information members months after April 2020 or quarters after may visit and follow the SSS’ Facebook the quarter ending 31 March 2020 will page at the “Philippine Social Security follow the regular payment schedule. System.” (SSS)
Duterte certifies antiterror bill as urgent
By Azer Parrocha
President Rodrigo Duterte has certified as urgent a bill that will give the country’s anti-terrorism law more teeth. May 30 - June 5, 2020 |
51
Duterte, in a letter to House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano on Monday, certified House Bill 6875, as urgent to allow the lower house to expedite the legislative process.
“Iyong mga law enforcement agencies ay may sapat ding kaparusahan sa mga nag-aabuso. So dapat walang ipangamba ang ating mga kababayan (Law enforcement agencies will also be punished if they He called for the immediate commit abuses. So our citizens should passage of the bill “to address the not be worried),” he said. urgent need to strengthen the law on anti-terrorism in order to adequately In February, the Senate passed and effectively contain the menace Senate Bill 1038 or proposed Antiof terrorist acts for the preservation of Terrorism Act of 2020 on third and final national security and the promotion reading. Two committees at the House of general welfare.” In a virtual presser of Representatives approved their on Monday, Defense Secretary Delfin version of the measure, which is similar Lorenzana urged Congress to pass the to the Senate version on Friday (May bill before it goes on a recess this week. 29). “It is certified urgent bill para matapos ito bago mag-recess iyong Congress ngayong June 5 (so that it could be finished before the Congress goes on a recess this June 5),” Lorenzana said
Under the bill, persons who voluntarily and knowingly join any organization, association, or group of persons knowing that such is a terrorist organization, shall suffer imprisonment of 12 years.
Lorenzana also defended the bill from critics claiming it was an attack on freedom of speech or an avenue for red-tagging.
Suspected persons can be detained for 14 days without a warrant of arrest with an allowable 10-day extension.
“Wala namang basehan iyong kanilang mga opposition dahil binasa ko iyong panukalang batas — nandito sa akin ngayon — iyon namang karapatan ng mga tao ay may sapat na provisions (Those who oppose the bill have no basis, the rights of the people are ensured under its provisions),” he said.
A 60-day surveillance on suspected terrorists can also be conducted by the police or the military, with an allowable 30-day extension. The use of videoconferencing for the accused and witnesses will also be allowed under the measure.
To allay concerns of abuse, the He also assured that law Commission on Human Rights will enforcement officials who abuse their be notified in case of detention of a powers would be penalized. suspected terrorist. (PNA)
52
| May 30-June 5, 2020
Solon welcomes IBC13 as remote learning platform amid Covid-19 Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go on Wednesday welcomed Intercontinental Broadcasting Corporation’s (IBC13) offer to use its television facilities as a remote learning platform amid the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic.
Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go
“The proposal should enable the Department of Education (DepEd) to air curriculum-based programs when schools reopen on August 24,” he said in a statement.
Go pointed out that the use of broadcast media would ensure more inclusive access to learning by allowing students without internet access to participate.
The chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography said utilizing IBC-13, and other broadcast media, to provide continued learning opportunities under the ‘new normal’ would ensure continued learning process for students, as well as ensure their safety without unnecessarily putting an additional burden on their parents.
“Hindi naman po lahat ng kabataan may access sa internet o smartphones. Malaking tulong kung magamit ang free TV para sa edukasyon (Not all the students have internet access or smartphones. Using free TV would be of great help to education),” he said. Go said broadcast networks are mandated by law to allot airtime for May 30 - June 5, 2020 |
53
education programs, citing Children’s Television Act of 1997 (RA 8370) which requires a “minimum of 15 percent of a network’s daily total air time to programs that further children’s positive development.”
dialogue with the satellite television industry regarding remote learning opportunities.
As part of the effort, the government aims to use the stateowned IBC-13 to air curriculum-based “The use of broadcast media television programs to students in Metro would also enable rural schools, Manila, Central Luzon, and Region 4-A which often lacked an adequate (Calabarzon). supply of teachers and classrooms, to accommodate more students, Meanwhile, Presidential including the beneficiaries of the Balik Probinsya, Bagong Pag-asa program,” Communications Operations Office Secretary Martin Andanar said the he said. network, which is currently underutilized, require a PHP100-million In his latest report to Congress, would President Rodrigo Duterte revealed investment to further widen its reach. that the government is in active (PNA)
54
| May 30-June 5, 2020
PH to resume hydroxychloroquine trial By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora
The Department of Health (DOH) will resume hydroxychloroquine trials following a new directive from the World Health Organization (WHO) on its use as treatment to coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) patients.
Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire. (File photo)
The anti-malaria drug’s clinical trial was temporarily halted in May after the Lancet medical journal raised concern on its effects. “They have now decided that it is ok and we will again include hydroxychloroquine, ili-lift na yung pagstop at itutuloy na natin ang gamutan dito sa hydroxychloroquine (they will lift the suspension and we will now continue the use of treatment),” Vergeire said in a media forum Thursday.
magsasabi na inconsistent, maraming mga tao ang magsasabi pabago-bago pero kami we stand by the position na ito ‘yong evolving nature of the disease and decisions may really be changed quite fast because of these new (pieces of evidence) that we get every day (People might say it’s inconsistent or shifting but we stand by the position that this is the evolving nature of the disease and that decisions may really be changed quite fast because of these new pieces of evidence that we Meanwhile, she defended WHO’s get every day),” she said. decision, noting the evolving nature of SARS-Cov-2 or the virus causing the The official assured that the Covid-19. government regularly keeps track of all new medical information about the “Maaring maraming taong disease.
56
| May 30-June 5, 2020
“Tayo ay makikinig, tayo ay susunod, tayo ay magtutuloy ulit nitong hydroxychloroquine (We will listen and we will follow. We will continue this hydroxychloroquine),” she said. Hydroxychloroquine is included in the list of drugs used for the WHO Solidarity Trial. In the Philippines, Vergeire said over 20 hospitals have participated in the trial, with a total of 220 patients enrolled.
She said the inclusion remains anchored on qualification criteria such as age and absence of pre-existing medical condition. “In this solidarity trial, since we’re using off-label drugs, there may be effects or adverse reaction on a patient that’s why we discuss it carefully with them and their relatives to get informed consent,” she said in Filipino. (PNA)
Critical care utilization rate ‘OK’ for now: expert By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora and Raymond Carl Dela Cruz
The Philippines’ current critical care utilization rate (CCUR) is satisfactory, an expert from the University of the PhilippinesCollege of Public Health (UP-CPH) said Wednesday. “’Yong atin pong (Our) rate at the moment is okay, so we have a good buffer but we need to see it with caution. While we already relaxed restrictions, we will only see it in the next two weeks so this is not a reason to be complacent,” Dr. Katherine Reyes,
associate dean for research at UP-CPH, said during a virtual briefing. Reyes noted that about 5 percent of the Covid-19 cases require intensive care. The CCUR is the capacity of the country’s May 30 - June 5, 2020 |
57
healthcare system and facilities to take gaya ng sa Italy, dumating sila sa care of those in need of critical care point na kailangan i-rationalize ang and make sure none dies of the illness. paggamit ng ICU. Sino ang i-prioritize sa bed, sino yung bibigyan ng ventilator, “This (CCUR) is an important etc. Ayaw po natin na dadating tayo indicator because this says a lot about sa ganung punto (During the worst days our capacity to provide the 5 percent of the pandemic in Italy, they came to the required medical attention,” she a point where they had to rationalize added in Filipino. the use of ICUs. Who are prioritized for beds, who will get a ventilator, etc. We Of the 13,518 bed capacity for don’t want to reach that point),” Reyes Covid-19 patients in the Philippines, said. 1,314 are allocated for the intensive care unit (ICU), 38.4 percent of which Asked how she foresees the are occupied. critical care for Covid-19 patients in the coming months, Reyes said this would Meanwhile, at least 17.8 percent depend on the implementation and of the 1,982 ventilators are in use. compliance with preventive measures against illness. Reyes said setting up beds for ICUs are difficult given the number of staff Among these are physical members needed and the stringent distancing, wearing masks, and proper policies required to run a unit. hygiene. On the part of the government, on the other hand, is aggressive contact “Ito ang last defense natin... tracing and isolation of identified cases. kailangan siguraduhin na ‘di natin Integral siya na-o-overwhelm (This is our last defense... we need to make sure it is The Department of Health not overwhelmed),” she said. (DOH) underscored that contact tracing remains an integral part of the Reyes added that CCUR also Philippines’ overall response strategy shows how well the country can take against Covid-19. care of Covid-19 patients and how many can recover from viral respiratory “DOH through its Regional Offices disease. will continue to coordinate with DILG which is the lead agency in the conduct Once a country reaches or goes of contact tracing activities to engage beyond its maximum CCUR, a crisis local government units and strategize such as those seen in the worst days how to mobilize more contact tracers,” of the Covid-19 pandemic in Italy will it said in a statement. occur. On other efforts, DOH has “Sa kasagsagan ng pandemic approved 6,773 slots for hiring in 209
58
| May 30-June 5, 2020
facilities and has redeployed 1,308 compensation of PHP100,000 while the nurses to hospitals handling Covid-19 kin of those who will die of the disease cases. shall receive PHP1 million. It also assured support to frontline healthcare workers and noted that the government is finalizing a joint administrative order for the release of cash assistance to fallen and sick medical staff. Under Section 4 of the Bayanihan to Heal as One-Act, health workers who will contract Covid-19 in line of duty starting February 1 will be entitled to a
“In preparation for its implementation, our Public Assistance Unit has been calling the heirs of the 32 healthcare workers for the submission of necessary documents to claim the benefits. We are also gathering details to identify those who were classified as severe patients so they can be informed also of this benefit,� DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said. (PNA)
House OKs PCR testing for vulnerable sectors on 2nd reading
By Filane Mikee Cervantes
A proposed measure seeking to make coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) testing more accessible to vulnerable members of society is inching its way into becoming law at the House of Representatives.
May 30 - June 5, 2020 |
59
During Monday’s plenary session, the lower chamber approved on second reading House Bill 6707 or the “Crush Covid-19 Act”, which encourages a baseline polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing for vulnerable members of society to intercept Covid-19 transmission.
and drivers; and banks and transfer fund facilities personnel. The bill states that the testing subsidy shall not exceed PHP1,700 for government institutions and PHP1,800 for private institutions per vulnerable person tested.
The “vulnerable members of society” include those returning to work with comorbidities such as diabetes, hypertension, pregnancy, and old age.
Iloilo Rep. Janette Garin, the author of the bill, stressed the need to detect and manage Covid-19 early, especially in asymptomatic carriers, as the country gradually enters the new The bill also covers persons normal with the easing of Covid-19 entering the Philippine territory coming restrictions. from abroad, including foreign nationals, provided that the cost of “We cannot be blind to the actual testing for foreigners shall be at their spread of the virus. We cannot allow own expense. our people to work in fear, knowing that only symptomatic people are tested,” The bill further provides that priority Garin said. “While symptomatic patients should be given to the following: health need the utmost care and attention, we care workers; sales personnel in public should not forget the fact that Covid-19 markets, groceries and supermarkets; carriers can be deceiving. They appear food handlers; factory workers; healthy on the outside but virulent and construction workers; security guards infectious on the inside.” (PNA)
ECQ helped contain Covid-19 infection: Roque
By Azer Parrocha
The now lifted enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) “worked” in containing coronavirus disease (Covid-19) infection, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said on Monday.
Roque made this comment as quarantine (GCQ) on June 1. the Metro Manila and other areas transitioned from modified ECQ to In a virtual presser, Roque said the less stringent general community country’s positivity rate declined from
60
| May 30-June 5, 2020
13.4 percent in April to 7.5 percent as of late May. Positivity rate refers to the number of laboratory-confirmed tests that come back positive.
Roque, however, warned the public anew that the easing positivity rate will depend on how the public cooperates with government authorities in observing protocols under the more “Nagsimula tayo noong April, ay napakataas po ng positivity rate ‘no, relaxed GCQ. 13.4 percent - April 12 - 13.4 percent at He also reported the country’s sa ngayon po as of May 24 ay nasa 6.5 percent na po tayo – so ibig sabihin, improved health system capacity in talagang gumana po ang ating ECQ terms of beds used in the intensive care (When we started in April 12, we had a unit (ICU) to a total of 1,273 ICU beds very high positivity rate at 13.4 percent. (820 vacant and 453 occupied beds) as of May 28 from only 808 ICU beds Now, as of May 24, we are now at 6.5 percent--so this means the ECQ (555 vacant beds and 253 occupied beds) on April 23. really worked),” Roque said. May 30 - June 5, 2020 |
61
The mechanical ventilators (MVs), he said, (1,581 vacant MVs and 354 occupied MVs) also increased to 1,935 as of May 28 from only 1,039 MVs (830 vacant MVs and 209 occupied MVs) on April 23. As of May 28, there are 9,201 isolation beds (5,900 vacant and 3,301 occupied beds) compared to April 23 when it only had 4,925 isolation beds (3,114 vacant and 1,811 occupied beds). ‘Matira matibay’ tag inaccurate National action plan on Covid-19 Chief Implementer Carlito Galvez Jr. said it was not “accurate” to label relaxed quarantine protocols as “matira matibay (survival of the fittest).”
percent of usual shoppers are visiting establishments as part of guidelines to stay indoors and only go out when absolutely necessary. “Natutuwa nga kami kasi yung mga LGU natin sa Metro Manila at tsaka yung mga business sector, mas mataas pa ang kanilang awareness talaga—even stricter pa sa IATF yung mga pinatutupad nila (We are happy because LGUs in Metro Manila and also the business sector have even stricter guidelines than the ones issued by IATF),’ Galvez said.
Aside from NCR, other areas placed under GCQ from June 1 to 15 are Pangasinan; Region 2 (Cagayan Valley); 3 (Central Luzon); Region 4-A (Calabarzon); Region 7 (Central Visayas); Zamboanga City; and Davao Galvez said authorities are City. checking the situation in parts of the The rest of the country is under MGCQ. country to see if citizens are complying with quarantine protocols under the Meanwhile, Interior Secretary GCQ. Eduardo Año said “localized lockdown” will be implemented in barangays “Hindi naman siguro tama yung (villages) or critical zones with “high ‘matira-matibay’ dahil kasi talagang risk” of Covid-19 infection. tinitignan namin, pati nga kami nila DTI, kami umiikot kami ng mga… nila NCRPO Barangays that recorded more (I think calling it ‘survival of the fittest’ is than two Covid-19 cases in one week not right because we, along with the will be placed under a lockdown, he Department of Trade and Industry and said. National Capital Region Police Office, are regularly going around to check As of May 31, there are 18,086 the situation),” he said. confirmed Covid-19 cases in the country, with 3,909 recoveries and 957 He pointed out that only 20 deaths. (PNA)
62
| May 30-June 5, 2020
Israel donates medical supplies to DND By Priam Nepomuceno
DONATION FROM ISRAEL. Israeli Ambassador to Manila Rafael Harpaz (right) receives a token of appreciation from Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana during the turnover of Israel’s medical supplies donation to the Department of National Defense at the Villamor Airbase in Pasay City on Tuesday (June 2, 2020). The donation consists of medical gloves, surgical masks, N-95 filtered face masks, medical gowns, face shields, and non-contact thermometers. (Photo courtesy Office of Civil Defense Public Affairs Office)
The Department of National Defense (DND) on Tuesday received from the Israeli government assorted medical supplies intended for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). The donation was to aid the Philippines’ response efforts to fight the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said in a statement Wednesday. “The medical donation was received by DND Secretary Delfin Lorenzana from Israel’s Ambassador to the Philippines, His Excellency Rafael Harpaz during a turnover ceremony held at Villamor Air Base, Pasay City,”
he added.
The donation consists of 50,000 medical gloves; 30,000 surgical masks; and 3,000 N-95 filtered face masks; 4,500 medical gowns; 1,500 face shields, and a number of non-contact thermometers. The medical supplies were handed over to the Office of Civil Defense for inventory and distribution, Andolong added. (PNA) May 30 - June 5, 2020 |
63
EDITORIAL BOARD Executive Editor
ABNER M. CAGA Associate Editor
FRYAN E. ABKILAN Managing Editor
NORA CL MOLDE Copy Editor
VENUS LIM GARCIA Layout Artists
RONNIE E. MADANGUIT JOHN CHARLES B. MALAZARTE Contributors
JENNIFER P. GAITANO Agusan del Sur
NIDA GRACE B. TRANQUILAN Surigao del Sur
SUSIL D. RAGAS
Surigao del Norte/Dinagat Islands
DOREEN MARIELLE N. ROSALES Regional Office
RHEA ABAO RECHEL D. BESONIA RUTH ABBEY GITA-CARLOS RAYMOND CARL DELA CRUZ FILANE MIKEE CERVANTES AMETHYST JOY A. GALOS ALEXANDER LOPEZ PRIAM NEPOMUCENO FRETCHER MAGATAO AZER PARROCHA JOSE CIELITO REGANIT ROBERT E. ROPEROS JOYCE ANN L. ROCAMORA PREXX MARNIE KATE TROZO NEDA CARAGA, DA-CARAGA DOH CARAGA, PNP-CARAGA DSWD CARAGA, PNA TESDA ADN, DAR-ADS DINAGAT ISLANDS-PIO LGU-HINATUAN, SSS
Business Managers
ZARINA O. LASTRA MARIESH F. CELEDEÑA MAY AMOR O. ALABADO Photographer
ROBESPIERRE C. TRADIO RUDOLF BONNIN E. SANICO
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
(085) 815-1991
pia.northagusan@gmail.com
PIA Agusan del Norte
AGUSAN DEL SUR Provincial Government Center, Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur
0917-723-3455
pia.agusandelsur@yahoo.com.ph
PIA Agusan del Sur
SURIGAO DEL NORTE/DINAGAT ISLANDS Parrucho corner Magallanes St., Surigao City
(086) 826-9450
piasurigao@gmail.com
PIA Surigao del Norte; PIA Dinagat Islands
SURIGAO DEL SUR Old DPWH Bldg., Telaje, Tandag City (086) 211-3353 piasurigaosur@gmail.com; sds_pia@yahoo.com.ph PIA Surigao del Sur