Volume V, No. 47 November 13-19, 2021
15
11
17
13 REGIONAL NEWS
11 12 13 14 15
DA-CARAGA CONTINUES AID FOR ASF-HIT LGUS
POPCOM INKS MOU FOR GOVERNMENT-LED PARTNERSHIP FOR HUNGER INT’L MEN’S DAY CELEBRATED IN CARAGA 7 FRS RECEIVE HOUSING UNITS FROM OPAPP
PROVINCIAL NEWS LARGEST PROTECTED AREA OF SURSUR 17 2ND SOON TO BE ENACTED IPS ORG AVAIL OVER P4.2 AGRI 19 SURSUR EQUIPMENT FROM DA KA RESIDENTE SA RTR NAHATAGAN OG 20 544 MAHIGUGMAONG PAG-AMOMA SA LAING
22
19
PSA TO CONDUCT 2021 4TH QUARTER CRPS
AGUSERBISYO NGA GIHIMO LGU SANTIAGO GIPLASTAR ANG PAGDUMALA SA PAGKUHA OG DOKUMENTO GIKAN PSA
20 24 25
MINDANAO NEWS MINDANAO’S LONGEST FLYOVER INAUGURATED IN DAVAO DEL NORTE DUTERTE’S GREATEST LEGACY IS PEACE IN MINDANAO: PIÑOL
29 27 28 30 31 32
32
35 38 41
38
42 43
CONTENTS
27
30
INFOCUS
COVER
Caraga
NATIONAL NEWS
PCOO, BUKIDNON STATE UNIVERSITY INK MOU ON FOI PROGRAM PHILIPPINES, JAPAN AGREE TO STRENGTHEN STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP
DAVAO CITY MAYOR INDAY SARA DUTERTE VISITS TRIBAL LEADERS OF VARIOUS INDIGENOUS TRIBES OF MARILOG DISTRICT DAVAO CITY MAYOR INDAY SARA DUTERTE GRACED THE INAUGURATION OF MARILOG HOSPITAL’S BOTIKA NG BAYAN
CALAMITY AND FIRE VICTIMS IN CAGWAIT, SURIGAO DEL SUR RECEIVE AID FROM BONG GO TO HELP THEIR COMMUNITY BUILD BACK BETTER
VULNERABLE GROUPS IN BUENAVISTA, JORDAN, NUEVA VALENCIA, SAN LORENZO AND SIBUNAG, GUIMARAS GET A BOOST FROM BONG GO AS HIS TEAM ASSISTS COMMUNITIES IN DISTRESS
BONG GO AIDS FELLOW DAVAOEÑOS; REITERATES APPEAL TO PROVIDE CASH INCENTIVES FOR FULLY VACCINATED 4PS MEMBERS
COVID-19 NEWS
1.3M MODERNA JABS TO BOOST 3-DAY NAT’L VAX DRIVE GOV’T ALLOTS UP TO 2M BOOSTER DOSES FOR HEALTH WORKERS
1.5M DOSES ADMINISTERED PER DAY POSSIBLE: NTF
Statement of Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar on the death of Cebu City Mayor Edgardo “Edgar” Labella We extend our deepest condolences and sympathies to the family, loved ones, colleagues, and friends of Cebu City Mayor Edgardo “Edgar” Labella for his untimely death. Prior to serving as Cebu City’s local chief executive, he previously worked as the city’s councilor and vice mayor. Mayor Edgar played an important role in the development of Cebu City’s vibrant economy and efficient social services over the years. His commitment to public service was furthered by his firm support for the Duterte administration. His death is truly a loss to the Cebuanos and all the people who have had the privilege of knowing him. He has touched the lives of many, served his constituents, and uplifted them from poverty, alongside President Rodrigo Roa Duterte. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, loved ones, and colleagues in the city government of Cebu City. We pray for the eternal repose of his soul.
- SEC. MARTIN M. ANDANAR
CSO’s crucial role in Ma in Caraga’s Dagyaw
Civil society organizations (CSOs) discussed their indispensable role in the transition to full devolution following the Mandanas ruling in the Dagyaw 2021: Partisipasyon sa mga CSO sa Debolusyon, Palambuon! held on November 17, 2021 at The Pavilion at Watergate, Butuan City and livestreamed online. In her message, Department of Budget and Management
6
|November 13-19, 2021
(DBM) Regional Director Maria Fe D. Jagna said that Dagyaw is the government’s way of telling everyone that it is doing its best to serve the people. “We remain committed to finding ways to reach every Caraganon and keep you informed and updated with the affairs of government,” she said. Dagyaw, the Hiligaynon term for “bayanihan”, is
one of the government campaigns that serves as a platform for productive, valuable, sincere and visible engagement between the government and the citizens. Through the years, Dagyaw has consistently evolved in terms of topics covered and manner of delivery, adopting whichever is most suitable and appropriate for the time. Patterned after a town hall forum, representatives Caraga INFOCUS
andanas ruling tackled from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), DBM, and CSOs engaged in a comprehensive discourse about the latest updates, on-site experiences, varying perspectives, and prospective impacts of the Mandanas ruling in local governance. It was moderated by Alma A. Eleazar, honorary member of the LOGOTRIPhilnet. DILG Caraga Assistant Regional Director Donald A. Seronay opened the discussion by highlighting the legal obligations of the government to engage with CSOs. “The 1987 Philippine Constitution recognizes the important role of CSOs in nation building and the Local Government Code of 1991 further emphasizes this by mandating LGUs to promote the establishment and operation of CSOs to make them active partners in the pursuit of local autonomy,” he said. Caraga INFOCUS
Rule XIII, Section 38 of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Executive Order No. 138, series of 2021 states that CSOs can be active partners of LGUs in providing feedback on programs, activities, and projects (PAPs) of the government, pushing for various advocacies and initiatives, formulating plans, policies, and issuances, and implementing capacity development programs and other activities.
monitoring of the Devolution Transition Plans (DTPs) of national government agencies and local government units through consultations and public dialogues. In her sharing, Sibog Katawhan Alang Sa Paglambo (SIKAP), Inc. Executive Director Christine H. Ampon talked about how they brought health-related PAPs into focus in the preparation of the DTP of the Province of Agusan del Sur as it is one of their organization’s They are also encouraged primary advocacies. to participate in the preparation, “We repeatedly implementation, and impressed the importance November 13-19, 2021 |
7
of data utilization in the planning process, especially in healthrelated initiatives. We made sure that the LGU would invest on health programs especially with our experience in the pandemic,” she said Meanwhile, Butuan City Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Cristina Hemady R. Arcillas encouraged fellow CSOs to proactively engage in dialogue with LGUs to make the partnership work. “During the pandemic, the Chamber was always there to make the members understand why (business establishments) have to close. That’s why it’s important to engage with the government to have firsthand access to information as to why certain economic decisions had to be made,” she said. Similarly, Father Saturnino Urios University Social Science Division Head Belinda Ato-Candelario also expressed the Local Research Institutes (LRIs) are allies of the LGUs and CSOs. “CSOs make people-
8
|November 13-19, 2021
centered development possible. Hence, it’s important to employ the sentiments of CSOs in the planning process. From here, LRIs can then provide technical assistance in making this methodology possible, particularly in helping LGUs how to prioritize their PAPs relative to the CSO’s sentiments,” she said. When asked about the possible impacts of the ruling to civil societies, Regional Federation of CSOs President Victor Emmanuel A. Ozarraga sees it as an opportunity for better participatory governance. “The Mandanas ruling closes the gap between information and decision. It provides various opportunities for collaboration. So, I believe that the Mandanas ruling will ignite the interest of CSOs to actively take part in local governance,” he said. It is expected that the total shares of the LGUs from the national taxes will significantly increase starting Fiscal Year 2022 in line with the implementation of
the Mandanas ruling. According to EO 138, the substantial increase in the shares of the LGUs from the national taxes will empower the LGUs in providing basic services and facilities to their constituents, and aid them in the effective discharge of other duties and functions devolved to them under Section 17 of RA No. 7160. This year’s Dagyaw, which started in 2019, is the third to be conducted in Caraga region. It is the first to be conducted in a hybrid manner (faceto-face activity and online livestreaming) after health protocols in Butuan City have been relaxed. In the bid to make the activity more inclusive, a Filipino Sign Language interpreter, Ma. Euville V. Mejias from the Department of Education, interpreted the proceedings. The activity was also done in partnership with the Philippine Information Agency Caraga. The agency was responsible in livestreaming the activity in various social media platforms. (Estela Marie M. Vallespin/DILG-Caraga/ PIA-Caraga) Caraga INFOCUS
News Briefs (VACCINATION ROLLOUT UPDATE) As of Nov. 18, 2021, DOH Caraga reports a total of 712,421 vaccinated individuals, regionwide. Vaccination of qualified individuals including children ages 12-17 still ongoing in the different vaccination sites of the region. #BeVaccinated #ResBakuna xx
Chairperson of the Caraga RDRRMC and OCD-Caraga regional director Liza Mazo emphasized the need for council members to look out for impending threats and disasters an threats the public is facing in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic in her brief message for the 4th Quarter Full Council Meeting. She called on members to remain vigilant despite celebrating during the holiday season and to work hand-in-hand. As the nation celebrates the 2021 National Science and Technology Week with a theme “Agham at Teknolohiya: Tugon sa Hamon ng Panahon,” the Aboitiz School of Innovation, Technology, and Entrepreneurship (ASITE) is inviting you to join its exclusive webinars! The members of Task Group (TG) Demand Generation and Communication of Caraga region convened today, Nov. 18 for the 6th Consultative Meeting on COVID-19 Vaccine Task Group (TG) Demand Generation and Communication: Bayanihan, Bakunahan National Vaccination Days. Strategies for the successful conduct of the National COVID-19 Vaccination Day are being discussed.
REGIONAL NEWS
DA-Caraga continues aid for ASF-hit LGUs The Department of Agriculture (DA)-Caraga through its Regulatory Division on Friday, November 12, released an indemnity fund amounting to PhP385,000 to the local government units (LGUs) of Butuan, Buenavista, and Las Nieves in the province of Agusan del Norte.
Abilan, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte. A total of PhP160,000 allocated for 12 hog raisers of Barangay Bonifacio, Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte. The assistance was handed over by the Regional ASF focal person Dr. Apple Jaromahum and Ninety thousand pesos Veterinarian III of was given to nine Regulatory Division backyard hog raisers of Barangay Florida, Butuan Dr. Marie Jocelyn C. Santiago. City while PhP135,000 was also given to the In pursuant to the 16 backyard raisers of Memorandum from the Barangay Alubihid and Caraga INFOCUS
Agriculture Secretary William D. Dar, the indemnity to the ASF-hit hog farmers will directly go through the swine insurance program of the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC). The PCIC encourages backyard raisers who are still in the green zone to participate and avail of the subsidized Swine Mortality Insurance, as a risk transfer mechanism if such virus is detected in their areas. (DA-Caraga/ PIA-Caraga) November 13-19, 2021 |
11
PSA to conduct 2021 4th Quarter CrPS
To generate production estimates on crops other than palay and corn at the national, regional and provincial levels, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) will conduct this year’s 4th quarter Crops Production Survey (CrPS) in Caraga region.
Researchers (SRs) and/or regular staff of the PSA. CrPS is a regular quarterly survey conducted by the PSA on the last ten days of the second month of the quarter in all provinces of the region. “This is simultaneously collected with the Farm PSA-Caraga regional director Dr. Rosalinda C. Price Survey. The CrPS Apura said the quarterly covers more than 280 survey will be conducted crops sub-classified on November 19 to under three commodity 30, through a facegroupings, namely: to-face paper and Non-Food and Industrial pencil interview (PAPI) Crops; Fruit Crops; and by the hired Statistical Vegetables and Root
12
|November 13-19, 2021
Crops,” said Apura. It has production, area planted/harvested and number of bearing trees/hills/vines as unit of analysis. Director Apura assured that all the data and information collected by the hired SRs from sample farmer-producers shall be kept strictly confidential and shall not be used for purposes of taxation, investigation or regulation as provided under Article 55 of RA 10625. (NCLM/PIACaraga) Caraga INFOCUS
POPCOM inks MOU for government-led partnership for hunger The Commission on Population and Development (POPCOM) joins in strengthening the campaign against poverty and hunger and signed the Enhanced Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty (EPAHP) Regional Memorandum last Tuesday, November 16, 2021. The POPCOM aims to provide technical support to EPAHP by providing various capacity-building interventions to combat prevalent poverty and hunger in the region. With the presence of hunger czar Cabinet Secretary Karlo Alexander Nograles, POPCOM signed the MOU with the following line agencies: - Department of Agrarian Reform - Department of Agriculture Caraga INFOCUS
·- Bureau of Jail Management and Penology ·- National Nutrition Council - National Irrigation Administration ·- Technical Education and Skills Development Authority ·- Department of Interior and Local Government ·- Department of Education ·- Department of Trade and Industry ·- Land Bank of Philippines ·- Department of Science and Technology
·- Department of Health Regional director Alexander Makinano of POPCOM-Caraga has also committed to a full and intensified implementation of the National Program on Population and Family Planning towards better health, health and education outcomes, socioeconomic development, and poverty reduction. (POPCOMCaraga/MFC/PIACaraga) November 13-19, 2021 |
13
Int’l Men’s Day celebrated in Caraga
14
In line with the celebration of the International Men’s Day on Friday, November 19, the Commission on Population and Development (POPCOM)-Caraga conducted information caravans and other services on Response Parenthood-Family Planning, and Adolescent Health and Development in different parts of the region.
Obrero, Butuan City and Buenavista, Agusan del Norte in commemoration of the said event.
health and responsible parenting, and how they can become advocates.
An educational session on Kalalakihang Tapat sa Responsibilidad at Obligasyon sa Pamilya (KATROPA), an initiative of POPCOM, was conducted simultaneously with the local government units (LGUs) of Brgy.
Another session was also organized by the LGU of Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte with their barangay leaders and workers. The KATROPA sessions provided insights on the role of men in maternal and child care, maternal
Meanwhile, the Surigao del Sur Provincial Population Office also organized a fun run for the male officials and staff of the provincial and city LGUs. (POPCOMCaraga/MFC/PIACaraga)
|November 13-19, 2021
Caraga INFOCUS
7 FRs receive housing units from OPAPP Seven (7) former rebels and a Kapatiran Awardee received a Certificate of Entitlement of Housing Units at Cagayan de Oro Midland Valley Homes from the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) on Wednesday, November 17, 2021. Cagayan de Oro exrebels and housing beneficiaries (Photo courtesy of 4ID, Philippine Army) The beneficiaries are former members of the Rebolusyong Partido ng Manggagawa-Pilipinas/ Revolutionary Proletarian Army/Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPM-P/ RPA/ ABB). The awarding of housing units is in faithful compliance with the government’s commitment under the 2000 Peace agreement between the GPH Caraga INFOCUS
and the RPM-P/ RPA/ ABB, as reinforced by the Clarificatory Implementing Document to the 2000 Peace Agreement. The former rebels and their families are grateful for the government’s sincerity in fulfilling their commitment in exchange for their surrender and for their returning to a peaceful path. MGen Romeo Brawner Jr., commander of the 4th Infantry Division (4ID), reiterated the
government’s continued commitment to the former rebels as a necessary factor to sustain and make peace flourish despite the current security threats. “The government has time and again proven that we are serious in our quest for peace. We delivered our commitment, despite the challenges. This serves as the best illustration to entice more surrenderers,” he said. (4th Infantry Division, PA/MFC/PIACaraga) November 13-19, 2021 |
15
PROVINCIAL NEWS
2nd largest protected area of SurSur soon to be enacted
2nd largest protected area of SurSur soon to be enacted BISLIG CITY, Surigao del Sur -- Known as BarBoLaVa PLaS, the Barcelona, Bongan, Lawigan, and Valencia Protected Landscape, and Seascape is the second largest protected area of Surigao del Sur that will soon be enacted into national law. It was primarily crafted by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (DENR-CENRO)-Bislig and stakeholders from Caraga INFOCUS
agencies such as the city government of Bislig, local barangay councils, and private sector representatives (PSRs). The protected landscape and seascape area comprises around 754 hectares of aggregate mangrove swamp forest traversing the interconnectivity of coastal areas of the municipality of Lingig and Bislig City, both part of the second district of Surigao del Sur. The Coastal and Marine Ecosystem Management Program (CMEMP) of the CENRO issued findings
and recommendations of the Protected Area Sustainability Assessment (PASA) for the BarBoLaVa, a primary step prior to its declaration as a protected area. The findings revealed that four barangays of the said city and the municipality have a high potential to become a declared “protected seascape” because of its notable mature and lush primary mangrove species that may still be protected. The highlight findings are found in the discovery of two two threatened species of GapasNovember 13-19, 2021 |
17
a Protected Landscape and Seascape in Surigao del Sur. Bislig Chamber, the Private Sector Representative, was given the privilege to be part of this memorable milestone.
gapas (Camptostemon philippnense) found in Barangay Lawigan and Giant clam/Taklobo (Tridacna gigas) in Valencia, Lingig. Such findings paved the way in the issuance of a Memorandum Order dated January 19, 2021, placing these four barangays as the initial component of the National Integrated Protected Area System (NIPAS) under the category “protected landscape and seascape” instead of seascape only since it encompasses portions
18
|November 13-19, 2021
of terrestrial ecosystems that needs adequate protection. Moved by the challenge to establish as many protected areas as possible, the DENRCENRO crafted the ten-year BARBOLAVA PLAS Initial Protected Area Planning through a workshop and writeshop activity held on November 15-17, 2021 at Highland Function Farm. This plan shall form part of the other requirements needed in endorsing the passage of a national law declaring BarBoLaVa as
Other activities conducted by the DENR CENRO relative to such measures were the public hearing to stakeholders last November 12, 2021 at the DENR Conference Room and a series of public consultations of the constituents in the four barangays in the first and second week of November. The output of the plan formulation will then be presented back to the community for the finalization of the areas to be placed under the “protected landscape and seascape”, submission of the plan for the Local Sanggunian’s adoption, and securing the position paper of the stakeholders in support to the BarBoLaVa PLaS. (Bislig CityChamber of Commerce/ PIA-Surigao del Sur) Caraga INFOCUS
SurSur IPs org avail over P4.2 agri equipment from DA Over P4.2 million worth of farming machinery and equipment turned over on Monday, November 15, by the Department of Agriculture - Kabuhayan at Kaunlaran ng Kababayang Katutubo (DA-4Ks) – Caraga to CADT 116 or the San Miguel Manobo Indigenous Cultural Communities (SAMMICC) headed by its corn sheller; and one (1) chair, Datu Cyrus Bat-ao. unit of generator set for corn miller. Members of the Farmer’s Cooperative According to Luminarias, and Association (FCA), the interventions given composed of the were based on the indigenous people (IP) in Ancestral Domains the municipality of San Sustainable Development Miguel, Surigao del Sur, and Protection Plan gathered in Barangay (ADSDPP) of CADT 116 Caromata to receive that are beneficial to their the farm machinery and livelihood and community. equipment from the agency through Regional In his acceptance Executive Director (RED) message, SAMMICC Engr. Ricardo Oñate chairperson Datu Jr., Regional Technical Cyrus Bat-ao said that Director for Operations he believes that the Rebecca Atega, and DA- interventions will one 4Ks focal person Edelmira way or another address Luminarias. common problems that the community The agricultural machinery has bumped into over and equipment are the past years such composed of one (1) unit as unemployment, of the four-wheel tractor; inconsistent farm yield, one (1) unit of mobile corn and food accessibility mill; one (1) unit of 3-in-1 especially given the Caraga INFOCUS
COVID-19 pandemic situation. RED Oñate also highlighted the importance of being consistent in order to achieve the sustainable plans of the tribal community. “All of these machinery and equipment are already in place, what’s left is our commitment to make use of all of these to supplement to our deficiencies - in terms of production, the yield, employment opportunities among others. To our tribal brothers and sisters, the government most especially the Department of Agriculture, is just right here always ready and willing to help you with your necessities,” said Oñate. (DA-Caraga/ PIA-Surigao del Sur) November 13-19, 2021 |
19
544 ka residente sa RTR nahatagan og mahigugmaong pag-amoma sa laing AguSerbisyo nga gihimo
Mosuma sa 544 ka pamilya ang napadangtan og nagkalain-laing serbisyo sa “AguSerbisyo Caravan” sa probinsya kaniadtong Byernes, Nobyembre 12, sa Tagbongabong, RTR, Agusan del Norte.
Program sa AGUSAN UP!, ang kampanya sa pagpalambo sa administrasyon ni Gob. Dale B. Corvera kaabag ang buhatan ni Kong. Angel Amante-Matba. Subay usab kini sa Eexecutive Order (EO) 70 o ang “Institutionalizing Ang “AguSerbisyo” gihimo the Whole-of-Nation ubos sa sa Amomang Approach” diin ang Agusanon Flagship tanang ahensya
20
|November 13-19, 2021
magtinabangay aron mapaabot ang nagkalain-laing serbisyo ngadto sa komunidad ilabina sa hilit nga sitio. Sa iyang mensahe, gipadayag ni Gob. Corvera nga buot niya nga pinaagi sa “AguSerbisyo” mabati sa katawhan sa maong barangay ang pagamoma sa gobyerno. “Karong adlawa nagdala ta og mga serbisyo. Nia tanan ang departamento sa probinsya para mahatag kaninyo ang serbisyo,” sumala ni Gob. Corvera. “Kay gusto nako mga kaigsuoan, nga ang katawhan maka tagamtam gyod og unsa diay ang serbisyo sa gobyerno kung naa ta talewala sa kalinaw,” dugang sa gobernador. Ang mga serbisyo nga napadangat sa mga Caraga INFOCUS
lumulupyo mao ang nakapadangat ang buhatan sa Provincial Health Office (PHO) sama sa konsulta, dental services, tuli, bloodsugar testing, ug family planning cosultation, ug mga moksitero sab. Ubos sa Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) nang apodapod og mga medisina, eyeglasses, food packs, ug Packlunch 1,300 samtang ang Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (PDRRMO) nagpadangat og pagbansay og Basic Life Support, CPR, Bandaging pinaagi sa pag demonstrate sa mga Young Adnert. Gi turn-over usab sa barangay ang 500 ka semilya sa Mahogany ug 100 ka lambog gikan sa Environmental and Natural Resource Division. Naay usab 5,000 Tilapia fingerlings ug assorted vegetable seeds sa Provincial Agriculture Office (PAO), 10 tubes ice cream gikan sa Provincial Governor’s Office isip pahalipay sa mga kabataan, used clothes ug buntis kits gikan sa Agusan Up Coordinating Caraga INFOCUS
Center. Nagpahigayon usab ang Provincial Veterinary Office og basic veterinary health services, konsultasyon ug nang apod-apod og medisina sa tanang klase sa hayop sama sa water soluble vitamins ug dewormers. Pinaagi sa probinsyal nga buhatan sa Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) nahimo usab ang community-based training sa mosuma nga 140 ka indibidwal ug napadangat kanila ang mga starter toolkits. Mitambong usab sa maong kalihukan sila si Provincial Administrator Gerry Joey S. Laurito, Mayor Richard Daquipil ug Vice Mayor Eleuterio Enriquez sa RTR, BGen. George L. Banzon, Jr.,
Commanding Officer sa 901st Brigade, PCol Martin Gamba Provincial Director sa Provincial Police Office (PPO), Regional Director Tarhata Mapandi ug P\rovincial Director Rey Cueva sa TESDA, PLtCol Ritchie M. Yatar sa Provincial Mobile Force Company (PMFC)-ADN, PMaj. John Alexis Basañez sa Special Action Force (SAF) ug Ltc. Emerson De Vera, Battalion Commander sa 65th Infantry Battalion Anaa usab ang mga hepe sa nagka lainlaing opisina sa kapitolyo PHO, PSWD, PDRRMO, PAO, PPDO, MIS, ENRD, PVET, PTO, opisyales sa munisipyo sa RTR, mga personahe sa 901st Brigade, 65th IB ug PNP. (Shena Mae Pabia ug Sonny Montilla, LGUAgusan del Norte/PIAAgusan del Norte) November 13-19, 2021 |
21
LGU Santiago giplastar ang pagdumala sa pagkuha og dokumento gikan PSA government unit (LGU) alang sa Batch Request Query System (BREQS) scheme sa PSA alang sa certified copy sa Birth/Marriage/ Death Certificate ug Certificate No Marriage (CENOMAR) subay sa PSA Memorandum Circular No. 2018-04, “Revenue Rules and Regulations Implementing the Documentary Stamp Tax Rate Adjustment” ubos sa Republic Act No. 10963 Aprobado na Dedumo na otorisado ang o nailhan nga ang Tax sa Sangguniang lokal nga panggamhanan Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) law. Panlalawigan ang sa Santiago pinaagi sa Municipal Ordinance No. Local Civil Registrar’s Gi-aprobahan ang 155-2020 sa Santiago, ning Office isip partner agency maong ordinansa lalawigan ang “Ordinance nga makadawat og pinaagi sa Sanggunian Prescribing fees for the hangyo alang sa PSA Resolution No. 457-2021, request of documents from Civil Registry documents the Local Civil Registrar’s gikan sa mga residente sa sa pagpangamahan ni Office through the Batch maong lungsod ug sa pag- Provincial Board member Request Query System release sa mga gipangayo Francisco Y. Chan, Jr. (BREQS) of the Philippines nga mga dokumento tsirman sa Committee on Statistics Authority (PSA) nga dili na kinahanglang Ways and Means kauban in partnership with Local mobiyahe pa sa siyudad ang mga co-authors Government Unit of the sa Butuan, sa ingon, kini nga si Hon. Rodulfo A. municipality of Santiago.” maka-save sa panahon, Pitogo ug Hon. Erwin L. paningkamot ug salapi sa Dano atol sa ika 113th Ubos sa maong ordinansa bahin sa mga clients. regular sesyon. (Jessica nga gipangamahanan O. Mellejor, LGU-Agusan ni Sangguniang Bayan Ang mga bayronon del Norte/PIA-Agusan del member Sulpicio T. nga i-imposar sa local Norte)
22
|November 13-19, 2021
Caraga INFOCUS
MINDANAO NEWS
Mindanao’s longest flyover inaugurated in Davao del Norte
LONGEST FLYOVER. The longest flyover in Mindanao located in Tagum City, Davao del Norte was inaugurated on Friday (Nov. 19, 2021). The 1.035-kilometer infrastructure, which cost PHP2.7 billion, is part of the “Build, Build, Build” program of the Duterte administration. (PNA photo by Che Palicte)
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) on Friday inaugurated here the longest flyover in Mindanao. The 1.035-kilometer infrastructure, which cost PHP2.7 billion, is part of the “Build, Build, Build” program of the Duterte administration. The project which started construction in 2017 is located in the most strategic intersection in this city as it is the convergence point of all vehicular traffic from towns, municipalities, and cities traversed by two major road corridors: Daang Maharlika or the Agusan-Davao Road and Surigao Davao Road. The intersection also serves as a gateway to the northern provinces of Mindanao which draws traders of agricultural products, manufacturers, and investors in the services sector in
24
|November 13-19, 2021
the Davao Region (Region 11). In his speech during the inauguration, DPWH Secretary Roger Mercado said the project is a dream come true for the people of the Davao Region. “This project would decongest and solve the problem of traffic in Davao del Norte. I can see that Tagum is a very beautiful city. It has a big potential,” he said. The project has a four-lane flyover bridge structure including a 485-meter long, four-lane approach road with a Mechanically Stabilized Earth (MSE) wall along Daang Maharlika (Agusan-Davao Road). Meanwhile, Mayor Allan Rellon thanked the national government for the project as it will not only address
traffic congestion but would encourage more businesses in the city. “With this, big business groups are now signifying their intention to expand in Tagum City. Some said that the flyover will discourage businesses to come in but it is the opposite,” he said. Rellon added that the multibillion project is a welcome development as it helps boost the economy of the city. “With the constant guidance of the divine providence and the effective coordinative efforts between the local government units and the national agencies, together we can achieve more for the good of the people. More major projects are welcome in Tagum City and we are always eager to welcome new developments,” he added. (PNA/Che Palicte)
Caraga INFOCUS
Duterte’s greatest legacy is peace in Mindanao: Piñol Along with him are representatives of four major seed companies -- Seedworks, East-West, Kaneko, and Condor/Allied Botanicals, he said. Piñol brought 1,000 giant bamboo planting materials, the first batch of 1,200 breeders of Manok Pinoy, 100 Abuyog Sweet Langka seedlings, and mulberry and trichantera planting materials.
Former Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) chief Emmanuel Piñol (chief) and President Rodrigo Duterte (PNA file photo)
Former Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) chief Emmanuel Piñol said Wednesday night that the greatest legacy of President Rodrigo Duterte was turning the main lair of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), Camp Abubakar, in Maguindanao into a peaceful community. He said that it was all because of the peace negotiation efforts of the Duterte administration. “Today, things have changed and credit should go to President Duterte for personally handling the peace negotiations with the MILF. This is his greatest legacy to the people of Mindanao,” he said in a public post. Piñol recounted that many
Caraga INFOCUS
considered his visit 10 years ago in Barangay Karim, Buldon, Maguindanao to be an outright suicide. “For most of the years that I was the Governor of Cotabato, I was considered enemy number one by the MILF (Moro Islamic Liberation Front) but I survived several assassination attempts,” he said. But during his most recent trip to the same area on November 17, he said it is now peaceful and ready for development. “In my trip to Buldon today, I am joined by retired Marine Commandant Maj. Gen. Alvin Parreño and his wife, Anna, president of Support Our Troops, Phils (SOTPh) Inc,” he said.
“The interventions were turned over to Brig. Gen. Jonas Lumawag of the 1st Marine Brigade as a joint project with SOTPh,” he said. The Marines, on the other hand, will distribute the planting materials and the chicken to the residents of Barangay Karim as part of their socio-civic assistance to the residents of the area. The technical staff of the seed companies will also evaluate the suitability of the area for high-value vegetable production. “These efforts will serve as the Seeds of Peace in the former conflict area where hundreds of lives were lost in over 50 years of fighting,” Piñol added. He said that it will be followed by a Vegetable Demo Farming and Derby, similar to what was done in Pagalungan, Maguindanao last week. (PNA/ Che Palicte)
November 13-19, 2021 |
25
NATIONAL NEWS
PCOO, Bukidnon State University ink MOU on FOI program The Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) and the Bukidnon State University signed a memorandum of understanding on Tuesday for the implementation of freedom of information programs in the said university. During the Bukidnon leg of the 2021 Transparency Roadshow, Secretary Martin Andanar said that the gesture is a step closer towards a more transparent and accountable Filipino community. For the academe, this translates to a wider and more open access to information which can be utilized for academic research. Secretary Andanar also turned over FOI Library Materials to BSU President Dr. Oscar B. Cabañelez followed by a joint undertaking to sign on the transparency wall. The said roadshow, which aims to raise awareness on the transparency efforts of the Duterte administration and how the government has put much emphasis on its support for democracy. The PCOO chief also stressed that promoting transparency is one of the
Caraga INFOCUS
most important tools against corruption in government. “Transparency and accountability, particularly in the government, have never been more alive in the Philippines, and it is only under the Duterte administration that we have put forward such a cause, as part of our fight against all forms of corruption,” he said. “Our transparency initiative does not only ensure that corruption will be avoided by knowing where your taxes go, but also empowers all of you to participate in the affairs of our government,” he added. Secretary Andanar mentioned the creation of the Presidential Anticorruption Commission
(PACC) and the Ease of Doing Business Law, which has helped the government’s campaign. “We are confident that all of you will be partners of the Duterte administration in upholding transparency and accountability, not only in the executive branch, but also in other branches that we aim to achieve through this undertaking,” he said. Other officials who joined the Transparency Roadshow were National Housing Authority (NHA-10) Regional Manager Engr. Rolando I. Teves, Department of Social Welfare and Development 10 (DSWD-10) Regional Director Mari-flor DollagaLibang, 403rd Infantry “Peacemaker” Brigade Brigadier General Ferdinand Barandon, and officials of local government units.
November 13-19, 2021 |
27
Philippines, Japan agree to strengthen strategic partnership
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Wednesday made renewed commitment to further deepen their strategic partnership to address challenges of mutual interest such as peace and security, infrastructure development, and the coronavirus pandemic.
28
|November 13-19, 2021
“Japan is unrivaled among our bilateral partners,” said President Duterte during his telephone conversation with Prime Minister Kishida, acknowledging Japan’s support for the administration’s Build, Build, Build program, the peace process and grassroots development in Mindanao and the ongoing transition process
of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). A statement released by the Palace quoted the President saying Japan has shown that it is “indeed a friend closer than a brother” through its timely assistance in the Philippines’ COVID-19 pandemic response and recovery efforts. Caraga INFOCUS
At the same time, President Duterte said he looks forward to seeing the successful implementation of projects and activities aimed at enhancing Philippines-Japan cooperation in maritime security, particularly maritime domain awareness, maritime connectivity and preservation of the marine environment. The Philippine President also congratulated Kishida on his election and the government of Japan on the success of the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympic Games. For his part, the Japanese prime minister said that PhilippinesJapan relations have indeed reached its golden age under President Duterte’s administration, adding Japan will continue supporting the Philippines’ peace and development agenda in Mindanao, Build, Build, Build program and efforts to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. He also conveyed Caraga INFOCUS
his government’s readiness to further strengthen PhilippinesJapan partnership in maritime security, including extending support in upgrading the country’s maritime law enforcement capabilities. Also during the phone conversation, the two leaders agreed on the necessity to pursue deeper security engagement and coordination by launching a Foreign and Defense Ministerial Meeting or 2+2 meeting. They also expressed similar views on the need to undertake
an exchange of visits at a mutually agreed time to further reaffirm the Philippines-Japan partnership and personal friendship. Regional developments and multilateral issues, including the South China Sea, the Myanmar situation, the Korean Peninsula and nuclear nonproliferation were also tackled during the telephone conversation. The Philippines and Japan celebrate this year two milestones – 65 years of normalized diplomatic relations and 10 years of Strengthened Strategic Partnership. PND November 13-19, 2021 |
29
Davao City Mayor Inday Sara Duterte visits tribal leaders of various Indigenous Tribes of Marilog District Davao City Mayor Inday Sara Duterte visits tribal leaders of various Indigenous Tribes of Marilog District on Wednesday afternoon, 18 November 2021. Mayor Sara had a dialogue with the tribal
30
|November 13-19, 2021
leaders on matters of peace and order, health, preservation of the ancestral domain, and the showcasing of their beautiful and unique culture through cultural toursim. Mayor Inday also announced that a
creation of an Interim Office for Indigenous People Affairs is on its way. The office shall address the concerns, and look after the welfare of the Indigenous People of Davao City. (OSD) Caraga INFOCUS
Davao City Mayor Inday Sara Duterte graced the inauguration of Marilog Hospital’s Botika ng Bayan
Davao City Mayor Inday Sara Duterte graced the inauguration of Marilog Hospital’s Botika ng Bayan, Lingap Para sa Mahirap, Electronic Hospital Information System, and Philhealth Electronic Portal System, Wednesday morning. Marilog District Hospital offers the following services: Out Patient Services, Admission, Isolation, Delivery, Minor Surgical Procedure, Diagnostics, Swabbing Caraga INFOCUS
Collection, Animal Bite Treatment Center, Maternal Health Care, ENT Services, Lingap, Botika ng Bayan, and Community Extension Program. Mayor Sara expressed her gratitude to the people behind the success of the hospital,” Ginapasalamatan nato ang atuang mga City Government employees, ug atoang mga volunteers, ug atoang mga doctors,
gipangunahan ni Doc Ely Buenaventura, sa ilahang pagpaningkamot. Gipakita nila na kung dunay mga tao nga dunay kasingkasing para sa pagtabang sa mga tao, mabuhat gyud nato tanan kung maghiusa ta tumong sa isa ka direksyon.“ The hospital serves the medical needs of far flung barangays in Davao City particularly in Marilog District. (PR) November 13-19, 2021 |
31
Calamity and fire victims in Cagwait, Surigao del Sur receive aid from Bong Go to help their community build back better
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go’s office, in coordination with the National Housing Authority, delivered assistance for individuals affected by various disasters and emergencies in Cagwait, Surigao del Sur on Thursday, November 18. Go’s staff handed out meals and masks to 183 beneficiaries composed
32
|November 13-19, 2021
of typhoon and fire victims at Barangay ArasAsan Gymnasium. The team likewise provided financial assistance to the fire victims. They also gave bicycles and computer tablets to select residents. Meanwhile, the NHA provided necessary financial assistance through its Emergency Housing Assistance
Program to further help the victims rebuild their homes. “Ako ay nagpapasalamat sa ating mahal na President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, kay Senator Bong Go at sa NHA sa kanilang mga tulong na pinansyal. Salamat po talaga. Blessed po talaga ako ngayon at God bless to you po, Senator Bong Caraga INFOCUS
Go. Maraming salamat po,” Marites Vasquez, a 52-year-old calamity victim, enthused in an interview. In a video message, the senator urged the public, especially those in the priority groups, to avail of the vaccines against COVID-19. He reminded them that the vaccines are free and that the government continuously strives to acquire more to ensure that the country attains population protection and herd immunity soon. “Tuluy-tuloy na po ang pagbabakuna sa iba’t ibang lugar. Kung nasa priority list kayo, Caraga INFOCUS
magpabakuna na kayo. Ang bakuna ang susi para makamtan natin ang herd immunity ngayong taong at makabalik tayo sa ating normal na pamumuhay,” said Go. “Nakikiusap ako sa mga (local government units), magtulungan tayo sa national government. Kung kailangang suyurin natin ‘yung mga senior citizens at may sakit para protektado sila, gawin po natin,” he added. Go, who is also the Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, offered aid to residents in need of medical
attention. He advised them that they may conveniently avail of medical assistance from the government through the Malasakit Centers at the Lianga District Hospital in Lianga and the Adela Serra Ty Memorial Medical Center in Tandag City. The Malasakit Center is a one-stop shop that brings together the desk representatives of the Department of Health, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. November 13-19, 2021 |
33
As part of his commitment to ensure that the government can proactively address any disasterrelated incident, Go highlighted the need for a department that will specifically focus on holistic disaster preparation and response. He called for the passage of Senate Bill No. 205, which provides for the creation of the Department of Disaster Resilience. “Dapat maging mas proactive tayo at ipasa na ito sa lalong madaling panahon dahil madalas pong tamaan ng bagyo, lindol at iba pang kalamidad ang ating bansa. Kailangan nating i-scale up ang preparedness and resiliency against disasters,” Go said. “Kung maitatatag ang Department of Disaster Resilience, tunay na magiging handa tayo sa anumang krisis o sakuna. Mas magiging mabilis ang pagtugon ng pamahalaan, mas maiibsan ang masamang epekto ng kalamidad, at mas mabilis makakabangon
34
|November 13-19, 2021
Bong Go
ang ating mga kababayan,” he explained. The senator went on to thank the local officials, including Mayor Lillian Yu-Lozada and Vice Mayor Melchie Tuscano, for their service. He then appealed to continue their dedication to ensure that their community recovers from the pandemic and other crisis situations. As Vice Chair of Senate Committee on Finance, Go also pledged to support the concretion of various roads in the municipality to improve
public service delivery. He had earlier supported, among others, the improvement of roads in Barobo, Carmen, Madrid, Marihatag, San Agustin, Tago and Tandag City; construction of an Indigenous People’s center and a multipurpose center in Hinapoyan; construction of a public market in Lanuza; and purchase of ambulances for Lianga and Lanuza. Previously, Go’s team conducted a similar distribution to typhoon victims in Cortes. Caraga INFOCUS
Vulnerable groups in Buenavista, Jordan, Nueva Valencia, San Lorenzo and Sibunag, Guimaras get a boost from Bong Go as his team assists communities in distress Senator Christopher “Bong” Go called for greater support for struggling sectors in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic as his team conducted a series of relief efforts for residents in Buenavista, Jordan, Nueva Valencia, San Lorenzo and Sibunag in Guimaras on November 19 and 20. Go’s team distributed snacks and masks to 5,000 beneficiaries from various sectoral groups at Buenavista Commercial Complex, Jordan Municipal Grounds, San Lorenzo Municipal Covered Court, and the respective municipal gymnasiums of Nueva Caraga INFOCUS
Valencia and Sibunag. The team also gave new pairs of shoes
and bicycles to select residents to help them in commuting. They also gave computer tablets November 13-19, 2021 |
35
at mga indigent. Magpabakuna na kayo para protektado kayo at maiiwasan niyo ang mga grabeng sintomas ng COVID-19. Huwag makumpiyansa at may mas delikadong variant na tinatawag na Delta variant,” said Go.
Bong Go
to help children access educational materials. Meanwhile, personnel from the Department of Social Welfare and Development handed out financial assistance through its Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation program. The Department of Trade and Industry and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority also conducted assessments of potential beneficiaries for their respective assistance programs. In his video message
36
|November 13-19, 2021
to the beneficiaries, the senator, as Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, appealed for the cooperation of the public and encouraged those eligible for vaccination to take part in the inoculation drive so they can protect themselves and others from the most harmful effects of the virus. “Mga kababayan, tuloy-tuloy na po ang pagbabakuna ng mga senior citizens, persons with comorbidities, economic frontliners
The senator further offered medical aid to residents with health concerns and advised them to seek medical assistance from the the government through the Malasakit Center in the Dr. Catalino Gallego Nava Provincial Hospital in Jordan. Primarily authored and sponsored by Go, Republic Act No. 11463 or the “Malasakit Centers Act of 2019” mandates all hospitals managed and administered by the Department of Health and Philippine General Hospital to establish their own Malasakit Centers to help particularly poor and indigent patients nationwide with their medical expenses. “Mga kababayan ko, kung mayroon po kayong mga pasyente, mayroon na ho tayong Caraga INFOCUS
149 na Malasakit Centers. Ang Malasakit Center po’y handang tumulong po sa inyo para po ‘yan sa mga poor and indigent patients. Zero balance po ang target niyan. One-stop shop na po ‘yan. Lapitan niyo lang po ang Malasakit Center diyan po sa inyong lugar,” Go explained. Noemi Barrera, one of the beneficiaries, extended her gratitude toward the Malasakit Centers program as it has immensely helped one of her family members with their Caraga INFOCUS
medical needs, saying, “Yung pinsan ko po ay inoperahan sa ospital sa Iloilo kung saan may Malasakit Center. Wala silang binayaran dahil sa Malasakit Center. Salamat kay Senator Bong Go sa tinulong niya sa aking pinsan.” Ending his remarks, Go recognized and thanked the local officials of Buenavista and Jordan for their leadership and commitment to help their respective constituents overcome the challenges brought by the national health
crisis. As Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, Go continues to support infrastructure development to improve the delivery of public service in and provide more economic opportunities in the province. In Buenavista, he supported the completion of seawall protection in Barangays Zaldivar, Magsaysay and Sto. Rosario. He likewise supported the acquisition of a dump truck for the local government of Jordan. November 13-19, 2021 |
37
Bong Go aids fellow Davaoeños; reiterates appeal to provide cash incentives for fully vaccinated 4Ps members
Bong Go
In his video message during a two-day relief effort conducted for 4,000 low-income residents in Davao City last November 18 and 19, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go appealed to the local governments to continue helping the national government in its vaccination campaign. He reassured that he will
38
|November 13-19, 2021
continue to push for ways (4Ps) as he believes that to raise vaccine awareness this would significantly in more remote areas. help the country achieve population protection Go, the Chair of Senate leading to herd immunity Committee on Health and soon. Demography, had earlier asked the government to “Sa paraang ito, hindi look into the possibility of lang natin maeengganyo providing cash incentives silang magpabakuna, to fully vaccinated mabibigyan pa natin sila members of the Pantawid ng dagdag na tulong. Pamilyang Pilipino Program Bagama’t wala itong Caraga INFOCUS
pilitan, dapat din wala tayong tigil sa paghikayat sa kanila dahil ang bakuna ang tanging susi patungo sa pagbalik sa normal nating pamumuhay,” Go explained.
their respective assistance programs.
Go likewise offered additional aid to the residents and encouraged them to take advantage of the government’s “Kasi kung mas marami medical assistance nang bakunado at patuloy programs conveniently na bababa ang bilang accessible through ng nahahawa, maaari na the Malasakit Center nating luwagan ang mga at Southern Philippines patakaran para pwede Medical Center in the city. na kumain at pumasyal sa labas, makatrabaho at Senator Go principally makagalaw nang wala authored and sponsored masyadong restrictions,” Republic Act No. 11463, he continued in his appeal. otherwise known as the “Malasakit Centers Act of Senator Go’s staff 2019”, which mandates distributed snacks and all hospitals managed masks to the beneficiaries and administered by the at the respective covered Department of Health and courts of Barangays the Philippine General Bantol, Malamba, Suawan, Hospital to establish their Tamugan, Salaysay, respective Malasakit Magsaysay, Lumot and Centers to help particularly Gumitan. The team poor and indigent patients also gave bicycles to access quality healthcare some residents, as well services. as computer tablets for children’s use in their The senator, who also classes. serves as the Vice Chair of Senate Committee Meanwhile, staff from on Finance, had also the Department of Social extended his support to Welfare and Development various initiatives in the city also provided the residents to help improve its public with financial assistance. service delivery. The Department of Trade and Industry and the Among these projects Technical Education are the construction of and Skills Development multi-purpose buildings Authority, in turn, assessed in Barangays Ilang, potential beneficiaries for Mintal, Panacan, San Caraga INFOCUS
Antonio, Tigatto, Waan, Pampanga and Gov. Vicente Duterte; and the construction of drainage systems in Barangays Mintal, Mudiang, Wilfredo Aquino, Ubalde, Buhangin Proper, Centro, Gov. Paciano Bangoy, Bunawan Proper and Kapitan Tomas Monteverde Sr. Go also supported the acquisition of multipurpose vehicles and mini dump trucks in Brgys. Callawa, Panacan, LapuLapu and Cabantian; construction of drainage systems in Brgys. Centro, Agdao, Gov. Paciano Bangoy, Bunawan Proper, Tomas Monteverde Sr. Agdao and Mintal; construction of multipurpose buildings in the SPMC Institute of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine and in the City Library Complex; and acquisition of ambulance units and construction of a 300-bed capacity infectious disease building in SPMC. “Mga kababayan ko, kaunting tiis lang po. Alam ko pong nahirapan kayo. Kami rin po ni Pangulong Duterte ay nahirapan din po. Subalit kayo po ang nagbibigay lakas sa amin na makapagserbisyo pa po sa inyong lahat upang malampasan po natin itong krisis na ating kinakaharap,” he ended. November 13-19, 2021 |
39
1.3M Moderna jabs to boost 3-day nat’l vax drive
MORE JABS. Officials of the National Task Force Against Covid-19 and the Department of Health welcome the arrival of the 1.3 million doses of Moderna vaccines at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1 on Friday (Nov. 19, 2021). The jabs are expected to boost the government’s national vaccination drive set from November 29 to December 1. (PNA photo by Jess Escaros)
The fresh batch of more than 1.3 million doses of Moderna’s anti-coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccine that arrived in the country on Friday would augment the government’s vaccine supply for the conduct of the national vaccination drive from November 29 to December 1. A total of 1,306,000 government-procured Moderna doses arrived via a China Airlines flight at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1. Deputy Presidential Peace Adviser Undersecretary Isidro Purisima, who led the officials who welcomed the shipment, said the additional doses would help
Caraga INFOCUS
ramp up the government’s Covid-19 vaccination program, particularly the mass immunization event dubbed as “Bayanihan Bakunahan”, which aims to vaccinate 15 million individuals over three days. “We have enough vaccines for the ramping up of our vaccination. We are encouraging our people to be vaccinated, and we will have national vaccine days,” Purisima told reporters.
Filipino people,” he added. Purisima assured that there would be enough vaccines as the government began administering booster shots for health care workers (HCWs) on Wednesday, with senior citizens and persons with co-morbidities set to get theirs starting next week. The government targets to complete the administration of booster shots to at least 1.6 million health care workers by end-November and it will be followed by other priority sectors. The shipment, he said, The National Vaccine brings the total Covid-19 Operations Center is vaccine doses delivered to currently drafting guidelines the country at more than for the booster vaccination 130 million. of senior citizens and those who are immuno“This will be our best gift for compromised. (PNA/Filane ourselves, for our family, and Mikee Cervantes) for our community, and the
November 13-19, 2021 |
41
Gov’t allots up to 2M booster doses for health workers Kidney and Transplant Institute in Quezon City.
Once the National Vaccine Operations Center (NVOC) issues the final guidelines, Galvez said the administration of booster doses to other priority sectors “may start by early next week or end of the month.”
BOOSTER FOR HCWs. Healthcare workers (HCWs) receive their booster shots against Covid-19 at the NKTI in Quezon City Wednesday (Nov. 17, 2021). The DOH said the HCWs have the option to receive a homologous or heterologous booster dose, depending on the availability of vaccine brands at the vaccination site. (PNA photos by Robert Alfiler)
The government has set aside up to two million doses of Covid-19 vaccine for the third dose vaccination of fully inoculated healthcare workers nationwide, National Task Force (NTF) against Covid-19 chief implementer Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. said Wednesday.
boosters,” he said. Galvez said the government is targeting to complete the administration of booster shots to healthcare workers by end of this month,to ensure that medical front-liners will get strong protection against the infection “once the cases will spike again.”
Welcoming the arrival of 3,530,400 doses of governmentprocured Sinovac vaccine, Galvez said the government is crafting guidelines for the administration of booster shots to senior citizens, immunocompromised, and persons with comorbidities.
“Kasi iba yung protocol ng handling ng boosters for the healthcare workers, iba rin ang protocols and guidelines doon sa para sa mga elderly at immunocompromised (Because we have different handling protocols and guidelines of booster shots for healthcare workers, elderly and immunocompromised),” Galvez said in an interview during the ceremonial booster inoculation at the National
“We are also expecting that more or less five million senior citizens will be accommodated for the third dose or the
42
|November 13-19, 2021
Meanwhile, Health Secretary Francisco Duque III assured that the administration of booster shots to the general public “will eventually happen.” “Pero syempre tapusin muna natin ‘yung vulnerable groups (but of course, we need to finish the vulnerable groups,” Duque said, adding that there is still a need to scale up the administration of primary doses. “We hope to see there will be a lesser infection and more importantly sana mas kakaunti, sana mawala ang severe to critical cases sa hanay ng ating mga healthcare workers (we hope to lessen or eliminate severe to critical cases among our healthcare workers),” he said. The government has started the booster vaccination in various hospitals on Wednesday following the issued interim recommendation of the Strategic Advisory Group of Expert connected to the World Health Organization last month. (PNA/Lade Jean Kabagani)
Caraga INFOCUS
1.5M doses administered per day possible: NTF
UPDATES. National Task Force Against Covid-19 chief Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. provides updates to President Rodrigo Duterte during a meeting in Malacañang on Monday (Nov. 15, 2021). Galvez is confident the government can achieve population protection, or about 77.1 million out of the total 110 million, by the end of the year. (Presidential photo/Karl Alonzo)
The government is confident it will surpass its goal of 1.5 million doses administered per day, based on the increasing vaccination output in the previous days. The latest data from the National Covid-19 vaccination dashboard showed the Philippines has administered a total of 70,677,771 doses nationwide, with 31,868,120 Filipinos now fully vaccinated. The average daily jab rate during the period Caraga INFOCUS
November 2 to 16 was 811,501 doses, while the weekly throughput was at 5,582,227 doses as against the 5.4 million the previous week.
week po, nung nagreport kami sa inyo ay 5.4 [million], ngayon po ay 5.5 na.
Meaning lumalapit na po tayo sa ating monthly Secretary Carlito Galvez output na at least makaJr., the chief implementer 25 million po tayo of the National Task Force ngayon (The good thing (NTF) Against Covid-19, here, Mr. President, is our said the government is on highest weekly output its way to fully vaccinate is increasing. Last week, up to 70 million Filipinos we reported to you a 5.4 before the end of the year. million doses, now we have 5.5 million doses. “Ang kagandahan po, Mr. President, paakyat ng Meaning, we are nearing paakyat ang ating highest our monthly target of at weekly output. Noong last least 25 million doses this) November 13-19, 2021 |
43
November,” Galvez told President Rodrigo Duterte during the pre-recorded Talk to the People televised Tuesday morning. “Malaki po talaga ang (There is a huge) improvement and we are very confident to surpass the 1.5-million mark,” Galvez said. Of the 124,914,000 doses received, 81,256,780 were procured by the national government.
po ng December ay ‘yun po, pwede na po nating ilaan po sa first quarter ng (Meaning, we will be able to reach our quota for the year of up to 70 million. Those vaccines that will be arriving in December can be allocated for the first quarter of) 2022,” he said. Update on Covid-19 vaccine administration per region. (Screengrab from RTVM) Nationwide program
A total of 54,236,229 are still in the stockpile and ready Galvez reported that the for distribution. National Capital Region has vaccinated 102.92 Galvez said 17 million more percent of its 9,776,356 doses will be delivered target population with in the coming days, at least one dose, while including 3,530,400 doses 9,005,703 individuals or of government-procured 92.12 percent people have Sinovac that will arrive completed their two doses. Wednesday morning, purchased through the It is followed by the Asian Development Bank. Cordillera Administrative Region, with 572,047 “Meaning ‘yung individuals or 44.83 percent ating quota for the year out of its 1,275,903 eligible of 70 million, makukuha population, now fully po natin at ‘yung darating vaccinated.
44
|November 13-19, 2021
Other regions also posted increasing full vaccination rates such as Davao, with 41.92 (1.5 million out of 3.7 million); 41.21 percent in Calabarzon or Region 4-A (4.7 million out of 11.4 million); 40.85 percent in Central Luzon or Region 3 (3.5 million out of 8.7 million); and 35.54 percent in Northern Mindanao or Region 10 (1.2 million out of 3.5 million). The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), meanwhile, has the lowest vaccination rate so far at 10.85 percent or only 322,246 people out of its 2,989,135 target population with full protection against the disease. Galvez said vaccine hesitancy in various isolated communities contribute to the measly output. He said the NTF will tap other government agencies such as military and security forces, the Transportation department, and even the private sector, to fasttrack the deployment of Covid-19 vaccines to farflung and geographically isolated areas like BARMM. (PNA/ Lade Jean Kabagani) Caraga INFOCUS
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
Filane Mikee Cervantes Lade Jean Kabagani Jessica O. Mellejor Sonny Montilla Shena Mae Pabia Che Palicte Estela Marie M. Vallespin Bislig City-Chamber of Commerce 4th Infantry Division, PA LGU-Agusan del Norte POPCOM-Caraga DILG-Caraga DA-Caraga PNA, PND, OSD 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
