Caraga InFocus –November 12-18, 2022

2022 Regional Dagyaw in Butuan talks about children’s well-being

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

The 2022 Regional Dagyaw Open Government Town Hall Meeting held on November 18 situation, issues and concerns of the school children and the youth especially during the as well as the efforts of the government and different stakeholders in the protection of children’s promotion of the overall well-being of the children and youth.

The 2022 Regional Dagyaw Open Government Town Hall Meeting held on November 18 highlighted the situation, issues and concerns of the school children and the youth especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the efforts of the

government and different stakeholders in the protection of children’s rights and promotion of the overall well-being of the children and youth.

Invited guest speakers include the Department of Education (DepEd) Caraga through Dr.

Violeta Nuñez, OICChief Education Program Supervisor, Policy, Planning and Research Division; National Nutrition Council (NNC) Caraga through Dr. Niño Archie Labordo, OIC-Regional Nutrition Program Coordinator; Gawad Kalinga

Butuan well-being

18 highlighted the the COVID-19 pandemic, children’s rights and

through Director Victor Emmanuel Ozarraga; and Caraga State University (CSU) Guidance and Counseling Center through Dr. Maria Olivia Bating, Counseling Supervisor. Said event was moderated by Dr. Alma Eleazar, Honorary member of the Local Government Training and Research Institutes – Philippine Network, Incorporated (LOGOTRI-

Philnet).

In the said activity, some 150 participants composed of student leaders, youth organizations, ParentsTeachers Association (PTA), indigenous peoples (IP) youth, PWD sector, local government unit representatives, media partners and other sectors actively took part in sharing their inputs

during the open forum to improve the situation of the children sector in the region.

The said town hall meeting was divided into three parts: The Child in School; Health of Learners; and Mental Health and Well-being of Caraganon Learners.

Regional Director Maria Fe Jagna of the

Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Caraga, emphasized that safe and secure dialogue across all sectors must be practiced and continued amid pandemic and challenges, hence, the conduct of the Regional Dagyaw this year.

“This year’s Dagyaw is very timely, especially that we are celebrating Children’s Month. We hope to continuously secure, promote the rights of the children and protect their mental health,” Jagna said.

In her presentation, Dr. Violeta Nuñez, OICChief Education Program Supervisor/Policy, Planning and Research Division of DepEd Caraga, shared that the

department is currently working on their Regional Basic Education Plan (a 6-year plan), which provides a strategic roadmap to improve the delivery and quality of basic education.

“To attain our targets, we have these strategies and one is to capacitate our teachers, principals and other personnel making them more competent in performing their jobs. Another major intervention is the strict implementation of Department Order 34, series 2022 - the number of school days in this DO shall solely be dedicated to academics and related co-curricular activities,” she bared.

Dr. Niño Archie Labordo, OIC-Regional Nutrition

Program Coordinator of National Nutrition Council (NNC) Caraga, stressed that all sectors need to work in unity in preventing the high prevalence of malnourished children in the region, especially those stunted and wasted. “This Dagyaw is actually one good avenue where we can discuss through a dialogue on how we can address the concern on malnutrition of our children,” he said.

“The First 1000 days of life of every child is really important as this is critical in the formation and growth of the child starting from the pregnancy of the mother. The power of the First 1000 Days starts from the 270 days of

pregnancy, followed by the 180 days of younger days of infancy (birth to 6 months), and the 550 days of the older stage of infancy and toddlerhood (6 months to 2 years),” added Labordo.

Dr. Victor Emmanuel Ozarraga, Area Team Leader of Gawad Kalinga Community Development Foundation, Inc., also shared the challenges and programs on health, nutrition and well-being for the CaraganonLearners: The GK Experience. “The Gawad Kalinga has established the implementation of the three zeros -- Zero Exclusion, Zero Carbon, and Zero Poverty. This is in line also with the Sustainable Development Goals,” he bared.

Dr. Maria Olivia Bating, Counseling Supervisor, Guidance and Counseling Center of Caraga State University (CSU) Caraga, discussed the Mental Health and Well-being of Caraganon learners. “Based on the data from the Department of Health, there are 1,145,871 individuals with depressive disorder

while 520,614 with bipolar, and 213,422 with schizophrenia,” she said.

“How can we help them? Let us do our own best way to protect them and promote their wellbeing. You may also do the following: 1) Be a safe person. Talk to them privately; 2) Let them share to the degree that they are comfortable with; 3) Listen carefully; and 4) Ask open ended questions,” Bating added.

On behalf of Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga Regional Director Venus Garcia, Assistant Regional Director Renelle Escuadro, delivered her message of support. She emphasized the Agency’s support to the Regional Technical Working Group of Dagyaw 2022 led by DILG, and vowed to continue to disseminate timely, accurate and relevant information to the public that promotes the rights and welfare of the children sector.

“We, in PIA, affirm our strong support and engagement to the children and the youth of

the country not because we are obligated to, but because we truly believe in the importance of putting them first in the priority. We can do so by implementing policies and programs that focus on promoting their well-being complemented by a strong information drive to create awareness of its relevance,” said Escuadro.

In his closing message, Engr. Donald Seronay, Assistant Regional Director of DILG Caraga, thanked all the participating sectors for their active support in this year’s Dagyaw, and stressed the need to continuously uphold the rights and total wellbeing of the children sector.

This year’s Regional Dagyaw is anchored on the theme “Edukasyon ug Nutrisyon sa Kabataang Caraganon: Palig-onon!

Dagyaw is a Hiligaynon word for “bayanihan” or togetherness which aims to bring the government closer to the people. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

News Briefs

The Marcos administration’s “Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino: Zero Informal Settlers Families 2028” program is expected to generate about 1.7 million jobs for Filipinos annually.

xx Government employers, information officers and some media partners of Caraga region gathered at the Watergate Pavilion, Butuan City to know the updates on the PhilHealth’s social health insurance, National Health Insurance Program, and the Universal Health Care Law or Republic Act 11223, the Social Health Insurance Education Series (SHInES).

The Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga team headed by Regional Director Venus Garcia, expressed gratitude to all the sectors that took active part and for making this year’s Regional Dagyaw Open Government Town Hall Meeting a meaningful and successful event. As the government’s communication arm, the Agency has been active in the conduct of Dagyaw in the region, which serves as an evenue for open dialogue between the government and other sectors.

The education sector will receive an 8.2% increase next year at PHP852.8 billion and will continue to be the highest budgetary priority of the Philippine government.

RIACAT-VAWC, RGADC Caraga join forces for 2022 18-day campaign to end VAW

The members of the Regional Gender and Development Committee (RGADC) and the Regional Inter-Agency Committee Against Trafficking and Violence Against Women and their Children (RIACATVAWC) Caraga have joined forces for the lined-up activities in this year’s 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW) from November 25 to December 12, 2022.

The said campaign will kick-off on November 25 through the conduct of a parade dubbed “Orange Your Float” from the Butuan City Hall Compound going to the Philippine Science High School Caraga Campus in Ampayon, Butuan City, where the program proper will follow. The float shall highlight the continuous call to end different forms of violence against women, and highlight the efforts/mandates of the agency in addressing VAW

and various gender issues. On the same day, the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga will facilitate the conduct of the Press Conference at the conference hall of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) regional office in Butuan City.

Starting November 28 to December 2, the RIACATVAWC has also partnered with SM City Butuan for the setting up of the Orange Help Desk and “Sanina Ko, Pagbuo Ko” exhibit. On the following day, November 29, the RGADC will also hold the Regional Orientation on Men Oppose to Violence Everywhere (MOVE) Year 2 via Zoom platform.

A Regional GAD Resource Pool (RGRP) Return Demonstration is also scheduled on December 1-2, 2022 and this will be conducted by RGADC in Butuan City.

The RIACAT-VAWC has also scheduled the following activities in the month of December: 1) Buntis Congress to 100 Pregnant Pantawid Pamilya and Non-Pantawid Women in the Province of Dinagat Islands on December 6; 2) Regional Quiz Bowl for VAW Desk Officers and Barangay Captains and Culmination Activity at the Events Center of SM City Butuan on December 12.

Meanwhile, posting of Safe Spaces streamers in Department of Tourism (DOT)-accredited Tourism establishments will be conducted within the duration of the campaign.

The 18-Day Campaign to End VAW supports the Philippine government’s goal of protecting the human rights of women and girls by upholding its commitment to address all forms of genderbased violence as enshrined in the 1987 Constitution. By virtue of Republic Act 10398 or the Act declaring November 25 of every year as the National Consciousness Day for the Elimination of VAWC, government agencies are mandated to raise awareness on the problem of violence and the elimination of all forms of violence against women and girls. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

House Bill to Include Municipal Waters in the Computation of LGUs Share in the National Taxes Filed in Congress

Agusan del Norte Representative Dale Corvera filed House Bill No. 6102 to amend Section 285 of the Local Government Code of 1991 (LGC) to include the area of municipal waters as an additional factor in determining the share of each local government unit in the National Taxes Allocation (NTA) popularly known before as IRA or the Internal Revenue Allotment.

Under Section 285 of the

LGC, the determination of the share of LGUs on the NTA is based on Population, Land Area and Equal Sharing. “The Local Government Code of 1991 has been here for the past 30 years and it appears now that these factors failed to consider one critical informationthat the Philippines is an archipelagic country, and more than 50% of its LGUs are considered coastal, and therefore the Area of Municipal Waters should be included in determining

the share of LGUs in the NTA not only the Land Area,” Corvera stressed.

He said that the current formula in the computation of NTA shares is unfair to LGUs with vast municipal waters to look after. Coastal LGUs are compelled to provide services, programs and facilities for the protection, promotion and maintenance of the municipal waters pursuant to existing laws despite the fact that in the

current distribution of the national taxes, the area of municipal waters is not considered as a factor.

“In fact, one of such laws is Republic Act No. 8550 or the Philippine Fisheries Code of 1998, as amended. It made the LGUs responsible for the management, conservation, development, protection, utilization, and disposition of all fish and fishery/ aquatic resources within their respective municipal waters, yet no corresponding adjustments were made in the factors to determine NTA share to cover the expenses brought about by the increase in responsibilities associated with the implementation of RA No. 8550. This is over and above the fact that coastal LGUs are the most exposed to huge damages and displacements during typhoons, storm surges and tsunamis and they are obliged to spend on projects and programs to prevent loss of life and property due to these events.”, Corvera continued.

“The importance of including municipal waters as factor in the

distribution of NTA shares of the LGUs is critical now because the Philippines has been ranked first globally in the World Risk Index 2022. This means that the Philippines is more exposed and vulnerable to cyclones, storm surges, tsunamis and other natural phenomena affecting coastal communities.”, Corvera added.

It can be recalled that the Mandanas Ruling of the Supreme Court only solved the issue on the just share of the LGUs as a whole in the national taxes and clarified that the share of the LGUs should not only be limited to national revenue taxes alone but it should include

must be addressed by considering the municipal waters as a factor in determining the LGUs’ share from the NTA in addition to the Land Area factor for the LGUs to have a truly just share in the national taxes.

(Agusan del Norte 2ndCongressional District Office/PIA Agusan del Norte)

POPCOM Caraga chairs RGADC for 2023-2025

The Commission on Population and Development (POPCOM) – Caraga Regional Director, Alexander A. Makinano was elected as the Chairperson for the Regional Gender and Development Committee (RGADC) of the Regional Development Council (RGD) for CY 2023-2025 during its 24th Quarterly Meeting on November 8, 2022 at NEDA Regional Office, Butuan City.

Director Makinano is the first male to lead the council to advance the women empowerment and gender equality in the region.

Makinano in his message said that, the leadership would be an overwhelming task; but he will take it humbly and responsibly. The CoChairperson is yet to be elected, from the Private Sector Representatives (PSRs).

Another highlight of

the said meeting which was presided by Atty. Aurora Luanne C. Ramos, Acting Chairperson, Regional GAD Committee and Officer In-Charge of the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) Caraga, is the activities on the upcoming 18Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW) was also discussed. One of the activities is the Kickoff Parade, presenting the Orange Your Float in line with the theme “United for a VAW-Free Philippines”, which will be participated by all

RDC-RGADC Member Agencies and LGU Butuan.

The Regional GAD Resource Program Batch 2 was also presented during the meeting, and representative from the Philippine Commission of Women (PCW) also provided information regarding the CY 2023 RGADC PCW Work Plan, RGADC Summit, Submission of GPB 2023, and GAD LLH Certification via Zoom platform. (Dian Joy L. Martinez, POPCOM Caraga/PIA Caraga)

PWDS, LGBT SERVE WITH PERMANENT FP

Some 63 women who are deaf and mute, blind, and lesbian are among the new beneficiaries of the free Bilateral Tubal Ligation (BTL) and one male volunteer underwent the No Scalpel Vasectomy (NSV) out of the Family Planning service provisions conducted by the Commission on Population and Development (POPCOM) – Caraga and DKT Philippines Foundation, Inc.

Of the 38 clients successfully served on BTL at Albor District Hospital, Province of Dinagat Islands, one is visually impaired, and one client has hearing and speech disability. Despite their physical conditions, they decided to

opt for BTL as permanent FP method to support and raise their children humanely. Aside from BTL, one female underwent salpingectomy at the same time due to infection and presence of two cysts at the right fallopian tube.

For Surigao City and Surigao del Norte, 14 females were successfully served on BTL, and 1 male served on NSV at Caraga Regional Hospital, Surigao City. The male client is a husband of a possible BTL client, however, upon counseling, it was found out that his wife will not qualify for the BTL because of her epileptic health disorder who is currently using IUD. After a thorough counseling, he decided to

avail of the free service on NSV in lieu of his wife.

Moreover, 11 clients were successfully served on BTL at La Paz District Hospital, Agusan del Sur. These clients were residents of the municipality of La Paz, Agusan del Sur.

POPCOM Caraga gave food packs, and DKT Philippines Foundation, Inc. offered gift certificate for every successfully served client. The provision of food packs and gift certificates served as compensation on the income loss incurred by the client during the service delivery. (Dian Joy L. Martinez, POPCOM Caraga/ PIA Caraga)

DA-PRDP TURNS OVER 9.82 KM FMR TO TWO BUTUAN CITY BARANGAYS

The Concreting of Lauan to Tud-ol Farm-to-Market Road (FMR), spanning 9.82 kilometers and worth Php158,933,007, was turned over by the Department of Agriculture – Philippine Rural Development Project (DA-PRDP) to the beneficiary barangays Tungao and San Mateo in Butuan City on November 10, 2022 at Purok 27, Brgy. Tungao, this city.

Before the concrete road, farmers, producers, and

community members endured long and arduous journey to reach Brgy. Tungao and vice-versa. Spoiled and damaged goods from long hours of travel through a dangerous road became the norm for farmers trying to get their products delivered to the market. Community members also had difficulty accessing services, leading to adverse, if not lifeendangering effects, to their health.

The completion of the FMR signals an increased access to businesses, markets, suppliers, and community services.

“The Higaunon tribe is grateful as motorcycles delivering bananas to Tungao will no longer be beaten up on the way there. Before the completion of the FMR, these vehicles would crash, leading to damaged goods that would have to be returned as they would

never sell in the market.

We are extremely grateful that the concreting of the road is now compete,” says Datu Danilo Pina-andel, the tribal leader of the Higaunon tribe.

Aside from the easy access the concrete road provides, it opens the barangays to opportunities such as in business, investment, government services and others that may not have been possible otherwise.

“We now have an opportunity to consolidate our farmers’ products. As a cooperative, we can now receive and gather their products easily: their vegetables can be gathered here in the coop and we will handle the rest, including marketing,” says Nilo R. Calipayan,

manager of the KM-7 Farmers Producer Cooperative.

Now that the concreting of the Lauan to Tud-ol FMR has been turned over, what remains is a matter of monitoring and sustaining the project for generations to come.

“Our challenge now is to nurture, maintain, sustain, and take advantage of these projects. May these projects inspire us to become agents of peace and development in our community, in our city and in the Caraga region,” says Engr. Pierre Anthony Joven, City Agriculturist.

In attendance at the turn over were Butuan City Councilor Hon. Arturo P. Gado, RPCO Deputy Project Director Jodel Tabada, Barangay

captains Danilo D. Diaz from San Mateo and Melchor E. Salboro from Tungao, City Agriculturist Engr. Pierre Anthony Joven, Datu Danilo from the Higaunon tribe, Nilo Calipayan from the KM7 Farmers Producer Cooperative and representatives from Mindanao Development Authority (MINDA), National Commission on Indigenous Peoples and Badsbro Construction and General Merchandise.

The FMR was funded by the World Bank and the Philippine Government through the Department of Agriculture, in partnership with Local Government Unit of Butuan City headed by Hon. Mayor Ronnie Vicente Lagnada. (Nicole Talatala, DAPRDP13InfoACE/PIA Agusan del Norte)

3RD BATCH SA TUPAD, NAGSUGOD NA SA KITCHARAO, SANTIAGO UG MAGALLANES

Nagsugod na pinaagi sa mga orientation ang third batch sa Tulong Panghapbuhay sa Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) gamit ang pundo nga gigahin sa ikaduhang distrito sa Agusan del Norte ni Kongresista Dale B. Corvera sa mga lungsod sa Kitcharao, Santiago ug Magallanes.

Ubos sa TUPAD, usa ka programa nga gidumala sa Department of Labor and Employment

(DOLE), makatrabaho ang displaced or disadvantaged workers sulod sa 15 ka adlaw sa sweldo nga Php350 ang adlaw.

Naay 54 ang apil sa nakatarabaho sa Kitcharao, 68 sa Santiago ug 55 sa Magallanes ning ikatulong batch nga mosuma sa 850 tanan sa tibuok distrito.

Apil ang nakatatrabaho sa ikaduhang batch nga 850 usab ug 510 sa unang batch mosuma sa 2,210

ang makatrabaho unya ubos sa TUPAD sa unang lima ka buwan nga panerbisyo ni Kongresista Corvera.

Gawas kini sa ubang social nga serbisyo nga gipadangat usab sa iyang buhatan.

Ang ubang mga lungsod magsugod sa ilang 3rd batch sa TUPAD ugma ug sunod semana.

Sunod sa nakita ni Kongresista Corvera

nga panginahanglan, apil ning ikatulo nga batch sa TUPAD mao ang mga apektado sa Bagyong Paeng ug ang mga disadvantaged workers sa informal nga sector sa ekonomiya, mga mag-uuma ug mga indigenous peoples (IP) nga nagpalambo sa mga core processing projects sa “Country Wood”, “Coffee Net”, “Chocolate City”, “Beyond Rice” ug “Food Basket”.

Ang nahisgutang mga

proyekto apil sa 15 ka processing projects nga gipalambo ubos sa Plant and Process for Prosperity Flagship Program sa AGUSAN UP!, ang kampanya ni Kongresista Corvera sa pagpalambo sa gobernador pa siya nga sumala pa ni Gob. Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante ipadayon sa iyang administrasyon. (Agusan del Norte 2nd Congressional District Office/PIA Agusan del Norte)

KONSULTASYON SA PAGPALAMBO PUBLIKO UG PRIBADONG HOSPITAL, KONGRESISTA

Gibisitahan sa mga personahe sa buhatan ni Kongresista Dale B. Corvera ang mga publiko ug pribadong hospital nga nagserbisyo sa mga residente sa Distrito 2 sa Agusan del Norte sugod Nobyembre 10, aron mahisgutan ang ilang kahimtang sa panerbisyo ug sa unsang paagi magkatinabangay tali sa iyang buhatan aron mapalambo pa kini.

Apil sa mga nabisitahan sa inisyal nga pagtuyok mao ang mga

hospital sa Syudad sa Cabadbaran nga mao ang Cabadbaran District Hospital ug ang Duay Hospital. Naadtuan usab ang Kitcharao District Hospital, ang Jabonga Municipal Hospital ug mga pirbadong St. Joseph Infirmary Hospital ug Clinica Jesus Nazareno sa Magallanes. Ang tanan sa nahinabi gikan ning maong mga hospital mapasalamaton kang Kongresista Corvera, ingon man

kang Gob. Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante, tungod sa suporta nga nahatag sa ilang tagsatagsa ka hospital. Alang sa probinysa, gipadangat ang maong suporta sa mga pasyente niini nga mga hospital kini pinaagi sa Integrated Social Development Assistance Program (ISDAP). Sa bahin sa buhatan ni Kongresista Corvera, gipadangat kini pinaagi sa alokasyon nga gipaagi ubos sa programang Medical Assistance for Indigent Patients

PAGPALAMBO SA SERBISYO SA HOSPITAL, GIHIMO SA BUHATAN NI

KONGRESISTA CORVERA

(MAIP) sa Department of Health (DOH) ug sa Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) sa Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

Sunod sa tuyo ni Kongresista Corvera nga mapahugtan pa ang partnerships aron mapalambo ug mapasayon pa alang sa mga lumulupyo ang pagavail sa mga serbisyo, ang tanan nagpadayag usab og mga kakulangon, ilabina sa pasilidades ug personahe. Partikular nga kulang sa pipila ka hospital mao ang social worker nga maoy moatiman sa mga assistance nga makuha sa mga indigent patients gikan sa gobyerno. Apan andam silang ipalambo sa ilang bahin ang ilang tagsa-tagsa ka kapasidad aron mapalambo pa ang ilang tagsa-tagsa ka serbisyo.

Padayon ang pagtuyok

sa mga personahe sa buhatan ni Kongresista Corvera sa mga hospital sa kasadpang bahin sa probinsya, ingon man sa Butuan diin nahimutang ang provincial hospital, ang Butuan City Medical Center og mga dagkung pribadong mga hospital pagseguro nga mahimo silang kabahin sa

kampanya pagpalambo pa sa matang sa panerbisyo sa mga hospital sa distrito ug mga kasikbit nga dapit nga nagpadangat og hospital service sa mga lumulupyo niini. (Jenny D. Fabian, LGU Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)

DUGANG PAGPASABOT SA BALAUDNON MUNICIPAL WATERS SA KONSIDERASYON GIHIMO NI KONGRESISTA

mga local government units (LGU) ug daku ang mahimong tampo niini pagpalambo sa mga lugar sa daplin sa Kini ang gipanghingusgan ni Kongresista Dale B. Corvera sa dugang pagpasabot nga iyang gihimo sa interview sa Radyo Pilipinas ganihang

Nobyembre 18, kalabot sa House Bill No. 6120 nga iyang gipasaka sa miaging semana.

gisugyot nga balaud buot ni Kongresista Corvera nga amendahan ang Section 285 sa Local Government Code of 1991(LGC) ug iapil ang municipal waters isip dugang konsiderasyon sa pagtakda sa bahin sa matag LGU sa NTA. Ang probisyon sa

BALAUDNON NGA MAG-APIL SA

KONSIDERASYON SA NTA, KONGRESISTA CORVERA

Section 285 nagtakda sa population, land area ug equal sharing isip basehan sa bahinay.

Dili kini patas sa mga LGU nga naay municipal waters, sumala pa kang Kongresista Corvera.

Gipasabot sa kongresista sa maong interview nga lahi sa mga landlocked LGUs nga ang galastuhan alang lang sa mga programa sa kayutaan niini, ang mga LGUs nga naay kadagatan sa ilang teritoryo naggahin usab og pundo alang sa mga programa nga magpalambo o magprotekta ning maong bahin sa ilang tagsatagsa ka lugar, apil na ang alang sa mga mangingisda o bantay dagat.

Gani, sumala pa sa maong gisugyot nga balaudnon, gipun-an pa ang kaakuhan sa mga LGUs nga naa sa

daplin sa dagat diha sa Republic Act 8550 o ang Philippine Fisheries Code of 1998. Gihatag ning maong balaud sa LGUs ang responsibilidad pagdumala, pagkonserba, pagpalambo, pagprotehir, pag-utilize ug pagdisposar sa tanang isda ug fishery/ aquatic resources sulod sa ilang tagsa-tagsa ka municipal waters apan wala kini maglakip og adjustment sa mga factors nga i-konsidera pagbahina sa NTA.

Ipuno pa dinhi ang konsiderasyon nga ang mga komunidad sa daplin sa dagat maoy labing nameligro sa mga bagyo o tsunami hinungdan nga magpahiluna gyod silag mga proyekto aron mapudgan ang kadaut sa lugar ug sa mga lumulupyo niini.

Walo sa 10 ka LGUs nga

sakop sa congressional district ni Kongresista Corvera naa sa daplin sa dagat. Sa Pilipinas, sobra sa katunga sa mga LGUs naa sa daplin sa dagat. Sumala pa kang Kongresista Corvera, nga miagi pagka-mayor ug gobernador sa mga LGUs nga naay lapad nga municipal waters, nga daku ang mahimong tampo sa pagpalambo pa sa mga lugar nga naay municipal waters kung naay adjustments nga himoon sa konsiderasyon sa alokasyon sa NTA.

Isip panapos sa maong interview, gipaneguro ni Kongresista Corvera nga padayon siyang magpanday og mga balaudnon nga magdala sa katawhan sa distrito ug nasud ngadto sa mas taas nga estado sa paglambo. (Agusan del Norte 2nd Congressional District Office/PIA Agusan del Norte)

GROUNDBREAKING GIHIMO ALANG SA

“SUPER HEALTH CENTER” SA SANTIAGO

Lungsod sa Santiago ug sa Barangay Ampayon sa Butuan pa lang ang montaran sa maong facility.

Gihimo bag-ohay pa lamang ang ground breaking sa gitawag nga Super Health Center sa Santiago, Agusan del Norte, butang nga sumala pa kang Kongresista Dale B. Corvera alayon sa mga tumong sa gipahiluna niyang programa sa distrito nga mao ang “Modernong Agusan”.

Gitawag ang proyekto nga super health center tungod kay sumala pa kang Dr. Leonita P. Gorgolon sa nasudnong buhatan sa Department of Health (DOH), usa kini ka super facility diin mahimong himoon ang minor ug major operations ug mahimong dangpanan sa mga naay balatian dili lamang sa mga taga Santiago kon dili apil ang mga residente sa silingang mga lungsod. Dugang ni Gorgolon nga naay 306 nga sama ning maong proyekto sa tibuok nasud ug sa Rehiyon sa Caraga sa

Sa mensahe ni Kongresista Corvera nga gibasa sa iyang representante sa maong okasyon siya nagkanayon nga timailhan kini sa dakung tikang sa lungsod, sa probinysa ug sa nasudnong ahensya nga nagtan-aw sa serbisyo sa mga probinsya paghimong moderno sa panerbisyo sa panglawas ug suporta siya niini.

Niini, mapasalamaton kaayo ang mga local officials sa Santiago. Sumala pa kang Mayor Zenaida Lim nga nagpasalamat siya kang Senator Bong Go, Kongresista Corvera ug Gov. Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante nga mitabang aron sa Santiago ipahiluna ang maong proyekto sa DOH.

Mitambong usab sa maong groundbreaking sila si Provincial Administrator Elizabeth Marie Calo nga nagrepresenta kang Gov. Amante, si Regional Director Cesar Cassion sa DOH-Caraga, mga opisyal sa kapulisan ug kasundalohan, ubang mga opisyal sa lungsod ug mga lumililihuk sa serbisyo sa panglawas. (Jenny D. Fabian, LGU Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)

MGA PROYEKTO PANGKALAMBUAN, GIHISGUTAN SA LGU LAS NIEVES UG NI KONGRESISTA CORVERA

Mibisita sa buhatan ni Kongresista Dale B. Corvera sa kaniadtong Biyernes ang mga opisyal sa Sangguniang Bayan sa Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte sa pagpanguna ni Bise Mayor Virgilio Escasenas Jr. aron hisgutan ang posibleng mga kalihukan pangkalambuan nga posibleng buligan pagapahiluna.

Ang Las Nieves sakop sa Unang Distrito sa Agusan del Norte apan pasado na ang balaud nga magbalik sa lungsod sa probinsya sa districting tungod kay naa nay igong gidaghanon ang botante sa Butuan City aron mahimong usa ka congressional district. Niini mahimong kabahin na ang Las Nieves sa lone district sa Agusan del Norte sa tuig 2025.

Usa sa mga nahisgutan

mao ang kabahin sa EcoTourism Zone nga ipahiluna ni Kongresista Corvera pinaagi sa usa ka balaudnon. Follow through kini sa Poblacion, Buenavista – Bocbocon, Las Nieves Tourist Lane Development nga gipahiluna sa kongresista sa gobernador pa siya sa miaging termino.

Buot usab makigtambayong ang mga opisyal sa Las Nieves sa buhatan ni Kongresista Corvera sa pagpahiluna sa “Riverine Tourist Lane” agi sa rota sa Agusan River gikan sa Magallanes ngadto sa Las Nieves.

Apil usab sa gilantaw sa mga opisyal sa Las Nieves mao ang pagpahiluna og koliheyo, bisan kung extension lang usa, sa Las Nieves.

Nagpasalamat usab sila VM Escasenas sa maong

pagbisita sa pagbarug ni Kongresista Corvera alang sa daku-daku nga budget alang sa proyektong tulay gikan sa Las Nieves tabok sa Butuan.

Mahinumdoman nga mibarug si kongresista sa hawanan sa kongreso aron ipabati sa kadagkuan sa Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) ang gamay kaayo nga Php10-Php50 milyones nga budget matag tuig ning maong proyekto nga nagkinahanglan og bilyong kantidad. Molungtad og taas nga katuigan mao pa mahuman kining maong tulay nga daku kaayo ang matampo pagpalambo sa lapad nga kayutaan sa lugar kung mao ra kagamay ang budget niini matag tuig, sumala pa ni Kongresista Corvera. (Agusan del Norte 2nd Congressional District Office/PIA Agusan del Norte)

MAYOR GARAY DELIVERS STATE OF LOCAL CHILDREN’S ADDRESS

In line with the celebration of the 30th National Children’s Month, Local Chief Executive Shem G. Garay successfully delivered his State of the Local Children’s Address where he presented the Local Government Unit of HInatuan’s programs for children’s protection and welfare.

Mayor Garay said that the local government will continue to improve the lives of children in terms of welfare, health, nutrition, as well as their

education.

The celebration, decked with various activities, aims to raise public awareness of the initiatives that address the mental health needs of children.

The Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office led by MSWDO Sunrise B. Tumanda spearheaded the celebration.

Anchored on the theme “Kalusugan, Kaisipan at

Kapakanan ng Bawat

Bata Ating Tutukan,” the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office led by MSWDO Sunrise B. Tumanda spearheaded the celebration.

Meanwhile, based on the results released by the Department of the Interior and Local Government recently, LGU - Hinatuan passed the 2021 Child-Friendly Local Governance Audit (CFLGA) in Caraga region. (LGU-Hinatuan, SDS)

56 HOG RAISERS RECEIVE CASH AID FROM PGO-SURSUR

Some 56 legitimate hog raisers affected with African Swin Fever (ASF) received cash assistance from the Provincial Government of Surigao del Sur today, November 18, 2022.

The distribution of the assistance was graced by Governor Alexander T. Pimentel, who also led the distribution of the assistance for the affected hog raisers held at the Gov. Vicente Pimentel Jr. Social in Tandag City.

According to the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian in Surigao del Sur headed by Dr. Margarito La Torre, they have identified 13 hog raisers from the municipality of Tago, and 43 hog raisers from Tandag City.

Each of the beneficiaries received P3,000.00 regardless of the number of hogs culled, accordingly.

Based on the report, one barangay in the

municipality of Tago, while 10 barangays in Tandag City reported being affected with African Swine Fever (ASF) recently.

It can be recalled that the State of Calamity due to the African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreak was declared throughout the country by the virtue of Presidential Proclamation No. 1143 on May 10, 2021. This allows local government units (LGUs) to set aside part of the local

Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund (LDRRMF) or commonly known as the calamity fund for quick response and recovery purposes.

In Surigao del Sur, Gov. Alexander Pimentel as Chair of the ProvincialASF Task Force ordered the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian to identify those affected hog raisers and provide assistance to help them recover from the said outbreak. (NGPB/PIASurigao del Sur)

Photo credit to: OPVet

TWO FIRE STATIONS IN SURSUR RECEIVE FIRE TRUCKS FROM BFP CARAGA

The fire stations in the Local Government Uniots of Carrascal and San Miguel, all in the province of Surigao del sur, each received a brand new Isuzu Fire Truck during the Blessing and Ceremonial Turnover spearheaded by the Bureau of Fire and Protection Caraga and the Provincial Fire Station held at the 1st Congressional District Office Ground in Tandag City on November 14, 2022.

The two fire trucks were formally received by the Fire marshals of San Miguel, and Carrascal, with their respective local chief executives (LCE) Mayor Michael Corilla, while Mayor Vicente H. Pimentel III was ably represented by Sangguniang Bayan Member Richard Hotchkiss.

Provincial Fire Marshal CInsp Kenneth Van Delos Reyes said that the province of Surigao del Sur has a total of 47 fire trucks for their operations.

Of the 47 units, 17 fire trucks are brand new and recently acquired by the province, while 12 units were acquired early this year.

Surigao del Sur is the first

province in Caraga region to establish a complete fire station in all its local government units.

“We are the first province in Caraga that completed the establishment of fire stations to all local government units comprising of two cities and 17 municipalities,” Delos Reyes added.

“We could not have done this without the support of our LGUs. Thank you very much to our local chief executives, especially to Gov. Alexander Pimentel, who is always there to support our programs for a fire-safe Surigao del Sur,” Delos Reyes noted.

Meanwhile, First District Representative Romeo S. Momo Sr. expressed his commitment to support the Bureau of Fire and Protection.

According to Congressman Momo, CSupt. Trajares, personally asked for his support as the official showed the proposed plan of the projected Regional Office to be installed in Surigao City. After which, the said agency got a positive response from the solon.

“I asked RD Trajeras to secure the lot as one of the requirements, then we will proceed with the construction of the building,” Congressman Momo stated in his message as he assured on the matter during the Blessing and Ceremonial Turnover of the two brand new fire trucks for the province.

Governor Pimentel, on the other hand, assured that the Provincial Government of Surigao del Sur, under his administration, continues to support the BFP’s programs for the benefit of all Surigaonons.

The event was graced with Surigao del Sur Gov. Alexander T. Pimentel, 1st District Representative Romeo S. Momo Sr., BFP Caraga Regional Dir. CSupt. Fred Trajeras, 2nd District Representative Johnny T. Pimentel ably represented by Chief of Staff John Vincent C. Pimentel, and Tandag City Vice Mayor Eleanor Momo. Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) 1st Engineering District Office chief Engr Ruel Bantugan also joined the event, and Rev. Fr. Glenn Melo as he officiated the Blessing Ceremony.(NGPB/PIASurigao del Sur)

SDS PPO ACCORDS FOYER HONORS

TO THE NEW PRO-13 CHIEF

Surigao del Sur Police Provincial Office (SDS-PPO) under the command of Police Colonel Dennis Siruno successfully accorded a Foyer Honor to Police Regional Office-13 (PRO13) chief Police Brigadier Pablo Labra II, as the office warmly welcomed his first command visit in Surigao del Sur on November 14, 2022. The said official was accompanied by Regional Community Affairs and Development Division (RCADD) chief Police Col. Ringo Zarzoso, and Regional Operations Division (ROD) chief Pol. Col. James Goforth.

In lined with the visit, the police officials also paid a courtesy call to Surigao del Sur 1st District Representative Romeo S. Momo Sr., and Provincial Governor Alexander T. Pimentel. Highlighting the event is the “Caraga’s Top cop Talk to Men” with the personnel of SDS-PPO,

Provincial Staff, Force Commanders, and Chief of Police (COP) from the City and Municipal Police Stations.

In his message, he presented his Project Thrust “D.A.D.D.I.” which stands for:

- Do Observe Cleanliness; - Adherence to Internal Discipline;

- Drug War Continues; - Develop and Strengthen PCR Partnerships; and - Intensified Anti Criminality Campaign.

Meanwhile, PBGen Labra has also congratulated the personnel of SDSPPO for a job well done in a One-Day Simultaneous

Anti-Criminality Law Enforcement Operations (SACLEO) recently concluded.

The said visit ended on a first Command Conference presided by the Caraga’s Top Cop attended by PCol Siruno, Provincial Staff, and COPs of City and Municipal Police Stations wherein operational accomplishments of SDSPPO, plans and programs of the Regional Director for the progress and development for the province of Surigao del Sur was presented. (NGPB/SDS-PPO/PIASurigao del Sur)

PMO SURIGAO JOINS THE 4TH QUARTER NATIONWIDE SIMULTANEOUS EARTHQUAKE DRILL 2022

In support of the government’s initiative on disaster preparedness, the Port Management Office (PMO) of Surigao participated in the 4th Quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED).

Personnel from ports under the PMO’s jurisdiction such as the Port of Surigao (Baseport), as well as those from the Terminal Management Offices (TMOs) of Dapa,

Tandag, Dinagat, and Lipata as well as clients transacting business and COA staff, actively joined other agencies and offices nationwide in the online disaster preparedness exercise spearheaded by the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and the National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (NDRRMC).

PMO Surigao’s Acting Port Manager, Froilan Caturla, led the execution of the basic

“duck, cover, and hold” technique and urged everyone to strictly observe minimum health standards such as wearing masks and physical distancing. The 4th Quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill simulation exercise also highlights the call for tsunami awareness and preparedness as part of the World Tsunami Awareness observance. (PPA-PMO, Surigao/PIASurigao del Norte)

PBBM URGES APEC LEADERS TO ADVANCE CLIMATE CHANGE COOPERATION

leaders must work together towards achieving “economic and social stability” that is aligned with the APEC Putrajaya Vision 2040.

Marcos was referring to the APEC members’ vision of an “open, dynamic, resilient and peaceful” Asia-Pacific community by 2040.

FIGHTING CLIMATE CHANGE.

at the Retreat Session of the 29th Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders’ Meeting in Bangkok, Thailand on Friday (Nov. 18, 2022). Marcos called on his fellow Asia-Pacific leaders to step up their cooperation to address the worst impacts of climate change in the region. (Photo courtesy of the Office of the Press Secretary)

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday called on his fellow Asia-Pacific leaders to step up their cooperation to address the worst impacts of climate change in the region.

During his intervention at the Retreat Session of the 29th Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders’ Meeting in Bangkok, Thailand, Marcos said the 21-member bloc must work together, as “increased interconnectedness and interdependence of peoples and economies brought about by globalization has led to the progressive world we live in today.”

Marcos said the effects of globalization on the environment have become

“more acute,” requiring a “strong, immediate and coordinated international action.”

“The world currently faces the greatest environmental challenges of all time -- that it continues to pose threats to the planet, and that is one existential element that we all have to deal with,” Marcos said.

“How economies respond is critical in determining the fate of the planet we live on and will pass on to our future generations,” he added.

To ensure “inclusive and sustainable” growth amid an apparent downturn of the world economy and risks of recessions, Marcos said APEC

He made the call, as he expressed the Philippines’ readiness to advance its cooperation with the AsiaPacific region to combat the climate crisis.

“As one of the economies at greatest risk from the climate crisis, the Philippines is committed to advancing these cooperative solutions,” Marcos said, noting that various international climate pacts, including the United Nations Framework on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement, are already being implemented in the country.

Marcos added that the Philippines has already ratified several multilateral and bilateral agreements aimed at protecting the environment.

During the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) CEO Summit in Bangkok on Thursday, Marcos said APEC member economies should beef up efforts to counter the effects of several global challenges, including the climate crisis.

(PNA/Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. speaks

PBBM PUSHES FOR MSMES’ USE OF E-COMMERCE SPACE

issues, lack of digital infrastructure, digital fraud, online consumer protection concerns, digital inclusion and access to finance and the persisting digital divide, among others,” he said.

Marcos said small businesses must use the “right” tools and policies, in order for them to become “more adept and agile” in using digital solutions and approaches.

The digital inclusion of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) will help them thrive and expand market reach to sustain “economic regeneration,” President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said Friday, as he acknowledged the sector’s role in stimulating the economy.

During the Retreat Session of the 29th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Bangkok, Thailand, Marcos said MSMEs must venture into e-commerce to ensure its “increased resilience and productivity.”

“MSMEs need opportunities and assistance to recover, grow and progress in the post-pandemic and digital age,” Marcos told economic

leaders.

Marcos said MSMEs, serving as “catalysts for economic regeneration, job creation and poverty reduction,” can help the Asia-Pacific region sustain economic growth.

Hence, APEC must support MSME’s digitalization efforts, as economies recover from the effects of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic, Marcos added.

Marcos made the call, as he lamented that the MSME sector continues to face “systemic problems and structural challenges heightened by the pandemic.”

“This is in addition to facing complex challenges that going digital presents, such as data privacy and cybersecurity

APEC economies, Marcos noted, also agreed that the collaboration and cooperation between policy-makers and the private sector are vital in “establishing interventions and regulatory frameworks” that will ensure MSME’s economic resilience in the “long term.”

The Marcos administration is putting a premium on the revitalization of MSMEs, being the “backbone” of the Philippine economy.

As of 2021, Around 99.58 percent or 1,076,279 of the 1,090,810 total business establishments operating in the Philippines are MSMEs, according to the statistics released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

MSMEs also generated a total of 5,461,731jobs or 64.67 percent of the country’s total workforce, the PSA data showed. (PNA/ Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)

Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) (File photo)

MARCOS, XI SEEK EARLY CONCLUSION OF NEGOTIATIONS FOR COC IN SCS

the DFA said. “They also reaffirmed their support for the early conclusion of a Code of Conduct on the South China Sea to help manage differences and regional tensions.”

FINAL SEA CODE. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (right) and Chinese President Xi Jinping cite the importance of the early conclusion of negotiations in the issuance of the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea in settling maritime disputes during their meeting in Bangkok, Thailand on Thursday (Nov. 17, 2022). The two leaders agreed that such issues do not define the totality of Philippine-China relations. (Courtesy of OPS)

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Chinese President Xi Jinping have called for the immediate conclusion of negotiations for the final and binding Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea (SCS) to address the maritime disputes among littoral states.

During a bilateral meeting in Bangkok, Thailand on Thursday, Marcos and Xi agreed that the issuance of the COC in the SCS is vital in resolving disputes among

sea claimants, including the Philippines and China, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said in a news release on Friday.

Marcos and Xi concurred that the SCS issue should not affect the improving relations between the Philippines and China.

“On the South China Sea issue, the two leaders agreed that maritime issues do not define the totality of Philippines-China relations,”

Marcos earlier said he would raise the long-standing disputes in SCS when he gets the chance to meet with Xi. As quoted by the DFA, Marcos told Xi that the Philippines is charting an independent foreign policy that “refuses to fall into the trap of a Cold War mindset.” “Ours is an independent foreign policy guided by our national interest and commitment to peace,” he said during his first meeting with Xi.

China, the Philippines, and several other littoral states have overlapping claims in the SCS.

Beijing is claiming about 80 percent of the contested waters.

However, the Haguebased Permanent Court of Arbitration on July 12, 2016, ruled against China’s supposedly historic rights over nearly the entire SCS. ‘Enhanced’ economic, dev’t

partnerships Despite the SCS territorial disputes, Marcos and Xi renewed the Philippines and China’s ties and vowed to elevate their economic and development partnerships, the DFA said. It said the two leaders vowed to improve the two nations’ cooperation in various fields, including agriculture, trade, infrastructure, energy, people-to-people ties, and pandemic response.

“Both leaders agreed to consider more infrastructure projects. President Xi cited the Davao-Samal bridge project in Davao as a prime example of infrastructure partnership. He thanked President Marcos for personally attending the groundbreaking ceremony for the bridge project,” the department said.

Xi also expressed openness to increasing the importation of quality agricultural produce from the Philippines, particularly the planned entry of durian to the Chinese market.

Oil issues

In Manila, the Chinese Embassy said “active consultations” on oil and gas exploration in the SCS are included in future plans. Manila and Beijing signed a memorandum of understanding on joint oil and gas development in the West Philippine Sea in November

2018. After three years of negotiations, the previous administration terminated the talks over “constitutional constraints” just before former president Rodrigo Duterte stepped down from office.

In August, DFA Secretary Enrique Manalo said Manila has already indicated its openness to have new talks on the subject.

The following month, the DFA said there had already been an “initial discussion” but official talks or working-level talks have yet to start.

Manila had repeatedly assured that any agreement that would result from the discussions would be in accordance with the constitution, which states that the exploration, development, and use of natural resources should be under the “full control and supervision” of the Philippine government.

“(China and the Philippines) should work together to reject unilateralism and acts of bullying, defend fairness and justice, and safeguard peace and stability in the region,” read the embassy statement.

Dindo Manhit, president of reasearch organization Stratbase ADR Institute, said the only way a negotiation on oil and gas exploration

between the two states would move forward is by respecting the Philippine constitution.

“We should approach these talks with the Philippine national interest on top of mind,” he told the Philippine News Agency. “We should respect the constitution and the laws of the Philippine Republic. That’s the only way we can proceed with the oil and gas talks. And with the support of the Arbitral Award, that makes our case stronger.” Grateful Marcos likewise expressed gratitude to Xi for China’s donation of 20,000 tons of urea fertilizers and coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccines to the Philippines.

Marcos said China’s assistance to the Philippines has helped “strengthen trust” between the two nations and brought “tremendous growth” in exchanges and cooperation in agriculture, infrastructure, energy, and people-to-people ties.

The inaugural meeting between the two leaders happened after their phone call on May 18.

Marcos is also set to embark on a state visit to China in the first week of January 2023. (PNA/ Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos and Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

PBBM CALLS FOR STRONGER PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS

countries. But, whatever plans we may have for our countries for our economies, those will come to naught unless they are within the context of peace in the region and in the world,” he said.

Marcos said public and private sectors must work together to develop more infrastructure, energy and agriculture projects to empower and strengthen the economy.

In a meeting with Thai conglomerate CP Group on Wednesday, Marcos said his administration seeks partnerships with the private sector, admitting that his government cannot transform the Philippine economy alone.

Stronger public-private partnerships (PPPs) are vital in revitalizing the economy amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic and other global challenges, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said on Thursday.

Marcos issued the statement during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) CEO Summit in Bangkok, Thailand, as he stressed that strengthening the partnerships between the government and the private sector is the “centerpiece” of the Philippines’ economic transformation bid.

“Let us continue to build on APEC’s long-running partnership with the private sector and be increasingly in lockstep with the APEC Business Advisory Council which is the voice of the business community in the Asia-Pacific,” he said in his opening remarks.

“APEC’s value and relevance are its ability to work with business. There is no other organization or forum that actively seeks the concerns of business the way APEC does. And this tight engagement is what makes APEC unique, functional and important. And therefore, it is an engagement that must not only be preserved but it must be strengthened,” he added.

Marcos said balancing the “very healthy” competition and cooperation among APEC member economies will bring prosperity and progress to the Asia-Pacific region.

He added that agility is the “key to the future in the long term” for the region, as well as all the countries in the world.

“We must have our sights set high for APEC and for all member

Marcos’ meeting with CP Group bore fruit after Thailand’s biggest private firm pledged to make additional investments in the Philippines in aquaculture, rice, and swine production.

To date, CP Group has a total of USD2 billion investment in the Philippines.

Marcos thanked the CP Group for its continuing interest in the Philippines and stressed that there is still so much potential and space for growth that could be explored with the Thai company’s engagement and cooperation.

Marcos earlier reported that as of August 2022, the Philippine government has recorded a total of 74 PPP projects in the pipeline, with a combined estimated cost of PHP2.25 trillion. (PNA/Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos )

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (Photo courtesy of the Office of the Press Secretary)

PBBM BATS FOR ENERGY

DIVERSIFICATION TO ADDRESS CLIMATE CHANGE

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday emphasized the importance of diversifying energy sources to sustain global economic growth and avoid the worst impacts of climate change.

In his opening remarks during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) CEO Summit in Bangkok, Thailand, Marcos lamented that the progress made to address climate crisis is “not enough,” despite the implementation of global climate pacts such as the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement.

Marcos said a “stronger” action is needed, considering that climate change is “the most pressing existential challenge of our time” that may cause adverse impact on the global economy.

“The Conference of the Parties to the UNFCCC (COP 27) is in full swing, but stronger climate action is required. As the energy demands of the modern global economy continue to expand rapidly, diversification into renewables and other sources is imperative,” he said during the forum.

APEC member economies, Marcos said, should step up efforts to address “structural and policy” issues to counter the effects of several global challenges, including the climate crisis. Marcos made the call, as he noted that climate change is “interconnected” with high inflation and geopolitical crises, as part of a “delicate” global food ecosystem that affects the entire

world.

Marcos said the Philippine government is now focused on using renewable energy sources such as hydropower, geothermal power, solar and other lowemission energy sources.

He said his administration is particularly setting a target of a 35 percent share of renewable energy in the power generation mix by 2030 and 50 percent by 2040.

He issued the statement, as he cited the findings of the Asian Development Bank’s study which showed that the Philippines is one of the countries that are at “great risk” from the climate crisis, as it stands to lose over six percent of gross domestic product (GDP) annually by 2100.

Marcos earlier approved the Department of Energy’s plan to explore and develop the country’s offshore wind (OSW) potential as a source of clean and sustainable energy.

Marcos is currently in Thailand for his first participation in the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting.

The APEC is a regional economic forum established in 1989 to leverage the growing interdependence of the AsiaPacific.

APEC’s 21 member economies seek greater prosperity in the region by promoting balanced, inclusive, sustainable, innovative, and secure growth and by accelerating regional economic integration. (PNA/Ruth Abbey GitaCarlos)

ASEAN CEO SUMMIT. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (center) poses for photo opportunity with fellow participants of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) CEO Summit in Bangkok, Thailand on Thursday (Nov. 17, 2022). Marcos emphasized the importance of diversifying energy sources to sustain global economic growth and avoid the worst impacts of climate change. (Photo courtesy of the Office of the Press Secretary)

NCR Covid positivity rate down to 7.4% as of Nov. 15: OCTA

The positivity rate for coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) in the National Capital Region (NCR) is down to 7.4 percent as of Nov. 15, the OCTA Research Group said Thursday.

OCTA Research Group fellow Dr. Guido David tweeted the region’s positivity rate or the number of persons testing positive for Covid-19 was 7.8 percent as of Nov. 8. “Less than 5 percent positivity rate is less

likely at this time and there is some possibility of an uptick in cases,” David said. “We still have to observe the trend next week.”

He also emphasized that the slower rate of decrease indicates a plateauing of the trend. However, less than 5 percent positivity rate is still attainable if the downtrend continues.

NCR’s reproduction number increased from 0.83 as of Nov. 6 to 1.02 as of Nov. 13.

Its weekly growth rate increased from -18 percent to 11 percent as new cases increased from 240 to 268.

“This observed spike in cases is mainly due to lower testing volume due to the recent holiday,” David said.

However, he said that “hospital utilization remained very low and the NCR remains at low risk (for Covid-19) at this time.” (PNA/ Ma. Teresa Montemayor)

OCTA Reaserch Group fellow Dr. Guido David (PNA file photo)

HTAC TALKS ON MODERNA BIVALENT VAX START NOV

18: DOH

The Health Technology Assessment Council (HTAC) will start its initial discussions on Moderna’s bivalent vaccine against the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) on Friday (Nov. 18).

“We’re just waiting para ‘yung Moderna naman makapag-submit na rin sa FDA [Food and Drug Administration] ng kanilang application for their EUA [emergency use authorization] (We’re just waiting so that Moderna can submit to FDA their application for their EUA),” Health Undersecretary Maria

Rosario Vergeire said in a media briefing Tuesday.

Before a Covid-19 vaccine is rolled out, it must undergo a regulatory process that includes a positive recommendation from the HTAC and EUA from the FDA to ensure its effectiveness and safety for public use.

“Kami po ay may continuous coordination with them already, we have already identified our funds, kung ano yung paggagamitan natin ng pondo at kung ilan ‘yung bibilhin natin (We have continuous coordination

with them already, we have already identified our funds, where to use our funds, and how many to purchase) from Moderna for these bivalent vaccines,” Vergeire said.

Moderna has committed to deliver their jabs as early as November or December, she added.

In a televised public briefing, infectious disease expert Dr. Edsel Salvaña emphasized the importance of the availability of bivalent vaccines amid the relaxed face mask mandate nationwide.

He said this type of vaccine targets newer variants of concern, providing additional protection against Covid-19 on top of the older jabs.

As of Nov. 14, almost 73.7 million Filipinos have been fully vaccinated, including more than 6.9 million senior citizens, 10 million adolescents, and 5.3 million children.

Around 20.8 million individuals have received their first booster dose and almost 3.5 million have received their second booster shot. (PNA/ Ma. Teresa Montemayor)

(Photo courtesy of Andalou)

DAILY AVERAGE OF NEW COVID CASES UP BY 43% FROM NOV. 7-13

The daily average of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) cases has increased by 43 percent from Nov. 7 to 13, the Department of Health (DOH) said on Monday.

From 907 per day recorded from Oct. 31 to Nov. 6, the number went up to 1,296 daily in the recent week.

The latest case bulletin showed that there were 9,069 new cases and 113 verified deaths.

Of the additional deaths, the DOH said 41 occurred from Oct. 31 to Nov. 13.

In the same period, six cases were added to the tally of severe and critical infections, which went down to 613 from the previous week’s 650.

Only 21.3 percent or 524 out of the 2,465 intensive care unit (ICU) beds are in use, while 25.8 percent or 5,363 of 20,825 nonICU beds are utilized.

To date, about 73,644,364 or 94.29 percent of the country’s target population (78,100,578) are vaccinated against Covid-19, including 79.42 percent of 8,721,357 senior citizens.

As of Nov. 13, a total of 20,760,526 have received booster shots out of the fully vaccinated population. (PNA/ Ma. Teresa Montemayor)

PNA photo by Alfred Frias

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