Caraga InFocus – November 14-20, 2020

Volume IV, No. 47 November 14-20, 2020

REGIONAL NEWS

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DILG-13 empowers vulnerable sectors in Butuan City

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More than 2,500 displaced OFWs benefit from DOLE-OWWA-AKAP in Caraga Caraga’s economic performance grows continually at 5.0% in 2019 DA launches ‘Kadiwa ni Ani at Kita’ fair in Butuan DA launches breeding source of Itik Pinas in Caraga

PROVINCIAL NEWS

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Over 500 Agusanons benefit from outreach program

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Agusan Norte officials, PRLEC members pledge support to agri-tourism enterprise village Army, police operatives nab MB member in AgNor SLP project giturn-over sa Nasipit Bora-bora muffler gidili sa Buenavista RTWPB Caraga conducts work ethics workshop for Agusan Sur students

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Caraga MRFC activities, MMT inspections continue amidst COVID-19 pandemic DOLE SurSur still accepts CAMP applicants

MINDANAO NEWS MinDA to endorse corn silo program to Mindanao provinces NoCot guv backs MinDA’s Mindanao river basin project

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NATIONAL NEWS PCOO extends sympathy to Cebu solon’s family Bong Go lauds frontliners’ dedication, sacrifice amid COVID Zubiri Donates Rice to Typhoon Rolly and Ulysses Victims Sourced from Local Farmers Zubiri: Who’s in charge of disaster management?

Red Cross sends Humanitarian Augmentation support to Cagayan Valley, steps up rescue efforts in the wake of Typhoon Ulysses Gordon bats for closer is better for additional calamity funds to disaster-hit lgus PRC cautions public against leptospirosis contracting due to wading in floodwater Nograles, McDonald’s Kindness Kitchen distribute 2,000 hot meals in Manila President Duterte backs Bicol Region’s ambitious flood control project Gov’t may secure advance procurement for COVID-19 vaccine by year-end

COVID-19 NEWS

PRRD approves grant of active hazard pay, special risk allowance to COVID-19 health frontliners PRRD approves advance payment for COVID-19 vaccine Gov’t to use Covid-19 antigen tests in evacuation centers Gov’t expects spike in Covid-19 cases; opens new isolation hub

CONTENTS

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INFOCUS

COVER

Caraga

TOP FILIPINO FOOD COMPANIES UNITE FOR BRAND AID: NOCHE BUENA PARA SA LAHAT

Christmas is one of the most significant celebrations in the Philippines. And one of

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its highest points is the Noche Buena, where families come together to share stories of love and

hope over their favorite Filipino meal.

But this year, Christmas will be different Caraga INFOCUS

for millions of Filipinos due to the Covid-19 pandemic, as a recent survey revealed that 7.6 million Filipinos experienced involuntary hunger at least once during the third quarter of this year.

Caraga INFOCUS

Most of these families may not be able to afford to put food on the table or even think of preparing Noche Buena. And because of this, Unilever Philippines, RFM Corporation, Dole Philippines, Century

Pacific Food, Inc., and Lazada have come together to offer some respite for Filipino families that are part of this staggering statistic.

Together with Rise Against Hunger Philippines— an international hunger relief organization—the brands are launching an initiative called Brand Aid: Noche Buena Para sa Lahat. It is the first ever collaboration of the biggest food companies in the Philippines to spark hope and bring Noche Buena to Filipinos in need.

The companies commit to work with each other, and together with other sectors of society, to actively advocate for a Philippines that is free from hunger. And through Brand-Aid: Noche Buena Para sa Lahat, they embark on this journey with a pledge of 100,000 Noche Buena kits for Filipino families, including those affected by the recent calamities.

“We see and experience the reality of hunger every day through the communities we serve. In their mission to spark hope through Noche Buena meals for this Christmas, Brand Aid sends a clear message that businesses, the government, and everyday people can come together to rise against hunger. We November 14-20, 2020 |

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are happy to continue the fight with them, and we hope to encourage others to support Brand Aid,” shares Jomar Fleras, Executive Director, Rise Against Hunger Philippines.

Brand Aid forms part of the group’s support to the advocacy of Pilipinas Kontra Gutom, a movement working with the government’s Task Force Zero Hunger led by Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles.

Sec. Nograles believes Brand Aid: Noche Buena Para sa Lahat! gives hope “that no one will be left behind, na lahat kasali, lahat kasalo dahil nanawagan ito ng malawakang

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pakikilahok, because everyone must be involved and everyone can contribute so everyone will be able to partake of a meal – our Noche Buena.”

“Programs like these inspire us and show us that we all can end hunger together as a nation.

Wala tayong iiwanan; lahat kasali, lahat kasalo … lalo na ngayon panahon ng Pasko.”

The companies behind Brand Aid also bring in their network of creatives, event specialists, media groups, artists, influencers, and social communities led

by Petch & Partners, MullenLowe MARC, Yaparazzi Events,

Activations Advertising Inc., Shoppertainment LIVE, Get Hooked 360, Slingshot Manila, Hit Productions, Film Pabrika Inc., Facebook, ABS-CBN, GMA and TV5 to bring the advocacy to more Filipinos who want to be part of this worthy cause.

Through Brand Aid, companies and individuals can also sponsor a family’s Noche Buena via special kits available at Lazada for only PHP 300. These Noche Buena kits contain ingredients to create traditional Christmas dishes, helping Filipino families continue a beloved tradition and strengthen bonds despite these difficult times.

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News Briefs Caraga’s economy grew continually at 5.0 percent in 2019 but at a slower pace with reference to the growth rate of 5.2 percent in 2018. Among the three major industry items, only Services sector continued to expand with 11.0 percent while Industry sector slowed down at 0.4 percent and Agriculture, Forestry, & Fishing (AFF) declined with a growth rate of -3.6 percent. (PSA Caraga) xx

Caraga RDRRMC - DPC 4th Quarter Virtual Meeting is the preparations made by member agencies of the committee.

On DOH Caraga’s part, the department is focusing on the preparations made in evacuation centers. This causes great concern especially with the COVID-19 pandemic still plaguing the country. They will be producing issuances on creating evacuation protocol in terms of abiding minimum health standards for COVID-19 prevention. DOH Caraga is also tackling the provision of augmentation of PPEs to areas where displacement will mostly occur.

According to Maria Kristina Cassion, officer-in-charge of the LTFRBCaraga, a total amount of P11,680,500 was allocated for Caraga region to be released to the 1,797 driver-beneficiaries of the Direct Cash Subsidy Program of the DOTr and LTFRB. Proclamation No. 124, s.2001 declared the third week of November of every year as Drug Abuse and Prevention Control Week. This proclamation addresses the need to “increase awareness and understanding of the adverse effects of drug abuse.” This problem affects the health of the user, as well as the social, economy, and political growth of the country.

REGIONAL NEWS

DILG-13 EMPOWERS VULNERABLE SECTORS IN BUTUAN CITY The vulnerable sectors of Butuan City were empowered to become advocates of peace and development through an activity dubbed “Capacitating Urban Communities for Peace and Development (CUCPD)” organized by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Caraga Regional Office Caraga INFOCUS

and DILG-Butuan held recently in this city.

“We are grateful for the ardent support of the local government unit (LGU) of Butuan City and the members of the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) for helping us in the conduct of CUCPD. Capacitating the vulnerable sectors of the lone highly urbanized

city of our region, we are confident that we will be able to achieve the long-sought peace and development in Caraga in no time,” said DILG Caraga regional director Lilibeth Famacion.

The activity centered on educating the youth and students; labor, transport, women, and urban poor sectors identified as the most November 14-20, 2020 |

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susceptible to local armed conflict manipulations and recruitment and on the tactics and strategies employed by the communist terrorist groups (CTGs) to deceive citizens to favor and join their violent cause.

Participants were given an overview of the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 or Republic Act (RA) No. 11479 and AntiViolent Extremism during the first day. Likewise, they were apprised of the corresponding government programs that would help them overcome the pressing issues and concerns that affect their sector.

During the first four days of the CUCPD, presentations on RA 11479 by Hanna Duero of the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency

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(NICA); methodological infiltration steps that CTGs implement to take over a specific area by Captain Charles Doroin of the 402nd Infantry Brigade of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP); and concepts of Violent Extremism Florian Bayawa of the DILG were discussed.

Civil society organizations (CSOs) led by Dr. Victor Emmanuel Ozarraga of the Gawad Kalinga and Jaime Makinano of the Philippine Partnership for the Development of Human Resource in Rural Areas (PhilDHRRA) discussed the concept of resiliency amid the pandemic.

The representatives from national government agencies also presented the various

forms of assistance that their respective offices can offer to those whose livelihoods have been impacted by the pandemic.

Youth and students were also educated on the threats of the online world by PCMS Raul Salubre and PSSg Razzel Labarate of the Cybercrime Unit of the Philippine National Police.

They were warned of the various forms of crimes that loom around the internet, especially in social media applications, and how they can avoid falling prey to such illegal acts.

They were also taught about the strategies on how they can make their social media accounts more secure.

Also, Pedro Tecson of the Department of Caraga INFOCUS

Education (DepEd) and Glynmer Jamito of the Propelling Our Inherited Nation Through Our Youth (POINTY) imparted to the participants the values on how to become responsible social media users and how to become peacemakers in the digital era and the new normal.

M e a n w h i l e , members of the business sector were invited to have a dialogue with the DILG, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on the threats and challenges that entrepreneurs have struggled with and how the government can be of further assistance.

The participants shared about the losses of the business sector due to the pandemic and also expresses that amid the health crisis, entrepreneurs continue to receive calls from CTGs extorting them of money.

Director Famacion, together with Major Mark Lagud of the 4th Infantry Division of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and NEDA Caraga regional director Priscilla Sonido, also committed Caraga INFOCUS

to continually assist local entrepreneurs through the RTF-ELCAC to ensure that they can recover from their losses and that the extortions from CTGs will stop.

Expo for Peace

As a culmination of the week-long activity, a Peace and Development Expo was held to give a platform to the sectors to voice out their responses to the activities conducted through the CUCPD which will help the RTF-ELCAC assess the effectiveness of its efforts and in identifying future interventions for the urban communities.

Frontline service delivery agencies such as the Department of Health, Department of TransportationLand Transportation Office, Department of Agriculture, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Commission on Higher Education, National Housing Authority, and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority set up a onestop-shop during the

activity to provide immediate assistance and information about their programs to the participants.

During the Expo, educational gadgets were also turned over by director Famacion to the DepEd Caraga for the newly established Schools of Living Traditions in Sitio Simowao, Brgy.

Diatagon, Lianga and Sitio Lucnodon, Brgy.

Mahaba, Marihatag in the Province of Surigao del Sur.

The makeshift schools were established to house the displaced students of the closed illegal and antigovernment educational institutions in the area.

Adhering to the health protocols, only half of the capacity of the venue was occupied throughout the event.

However, to ensure that the discussions will still reach the general public, personnel from the Butuan City Public Information Office were present to document the activities. The recordings will be uploaded to the official DILG Caraga Facebook page and YouTube account. (DILGCaraga/PIA-Caraga) November 14-20, 2020 |

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MORE THAN 2,500 DISPLACED OFWS BENEFIT FROM DOLEOWWA-AKAP IN CARAGA The government continuously assists the Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their families amidst the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic through financial assistance and facilitation of their return to their respective provinces in the country.

As of November 6, 2020, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration

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(OWWA) Regional Welfare Office Caraga have so far released a total of P25,260,000 cash assistance to 2,526 approved and qualified beneficiaries of the DOLEOWWA-AKAP (Abot Kamay ang Pagtulong) for OFWs in Caraga region.

The DOLE-OWWAAKAP for OFWs is a onetime cash assistance worth P10, 000 intended to aid the displaced land-based and sea-

based OFWs (regular/ undocumented), BalikManggagawa (BM) and qualified undocumented OFWs who temporarily or permanently lost overseas employment upon the declaration of COVID-19 outbreak in the Philippines on February 1, 2020.

D o c u m e n t s required to avail of the financial assistance consists of accomplished online application at www.dole-akap.owwa.

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gov.ph; copy of passport or travel document; copy of flight ticket or boarding pass evidencing return to the Philippines or arrival stamp/sticker attached in the passport; proof of overseas employment (i.e. valid verified overseas employment contract; OEC and visa/re-entry visa, etc.); proof of loss of employment on account of COVID-19 (notice/ certificate of termination of employment by employer, selfundertaking, etc.); and for qualified undocumented worker – proof that she/he and the employer have undertaken the necessary documentation to regularize her stay in the host countries such as copies of employment contract, payslip, work visa, or other proof of employment.

Since its implementation on April 13, 2020, the OWWA Regional Welfare Office - Caraga has received a total of 4,344 online applications.

Of this number, 2,526 displaced OFWs had been approved and received their cash assistance through money remittance center, which made it more convenient to the Caraga INFOCUS

beneficiaries as they were no longer required to go to the office for queuing.

The OWWA RWO Caraga evaluators will continue to assess and process the remaining pending and on queue online applications.

Applicants are not required to personally visit the OWWA Caraga office to know the status of their application.

They just have to

regularly check their emails or messenger app for the status of their application.

In cases wherein they have not received any updates, applicants may call their assigned evaluators or call the OWWA Caraga office hotline numbers 09173150590 (Globe); 09399259895 (Smart).

(OWWA-Caraga/PIACaraga) November 14-20, 2020 |

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CARAGA’S ECONOMIC PERFORMANCE GROWS CONTINUALLY AT 5.0% IN 2019

Caraga’s economy grew continually at 5.0 percent in 2019 but at a slower pace with reference to the growth rate of 5.2 percent in 2018.

Among the three major industry items, only Services sector continued to expand with 11.0 percent while Industry sector slowed down at 0.4 percent and Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing (AFF) declined with a growth rate of -3.6 percent.

The top three sub-

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industries with the highest growth rates in 2019 are financial and insurance activities with 23.0 percent; other services with 14.2 percent; and public administration and defense; compulsory activities with 13.4 percent.

All three fall under the services sector. Services sector contributed the largest percent share with 51.4 percent and the Industry

sector remained the second contributor to the economic performance of the region with 35.8 percent while AFF posted 12.8 percent share.

Of the 6.0 percent economic growth in the country, the region’s contribution to growth posted a 0.1 percentage points while accounting for 1.6 percent of the total Gross Domestic Product (GDP). (PSA-Caraga/PIACaraga) Caraga INFOCUS

DA LAUNCHES ‘KADIWA NI ANI AT KITA’ FAIR IN BUTUAN

By Kent Warren Fuguso With its program designed to help the livelihood of the local farmers and fisherfolk affected by the coronavirus diseases 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the Department of Agriculture (DA) - Caraga through the Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD) successfully Caraga INFOCUS

launched the Kadiwa ni Ani at Kita in partnership with Robinsons Place (RP) Butuan held on November 13-15.

DA’s KADIWA, in partnership with RP Butuan, was a three-day event that served as a marketing link between the local farmers, fisherfolk, and consumers

in Butuan City and nearby provinces, in a much safer and better venue.

In his message, DA Caraga Regional Executive Director Abel James I. Monteagudo highlighted that buying local products and supporting the local farmers and fisherfolk is the first step of the November 14-20, 2020 |

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Caraganon to upsurge the agriculture sector in the region and even the country.

“In this time of the pandemic, the maximum effort that we can contribute to our affected farmers and fishers is to support what they offer.

Because through this, we can deliver what is mandated to us, to produce food for the country, and to uplift the lives of our farmers- our heroes in these times,” he said.

Monteagudo also reiterated the attainment of the agriculture sector during this pandemic, “I am proud to say that our agriculture is registering a growth in these times, especially now that we

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should treat food as our medicine. This is an additional reason for us to patronize our locally grown, processed, and manufactured products,” he said.

AMAD Chief Lynn Pareñas also stressed the objectives of the ‘Locally Sourced’ Fair.

“Through Kadiwa ni Ani at Kita ‘Locally Sourced’ Fair, we are extending services on the marketing and entrepreneurial capacities of our local farmers and fisherfolk. As part of the component of Plant, Plant, Plant Program (Agri 4Ps), food security is our topmost priority against the threat of the pandemic,” she said.

The event commenced with a ribbon-cutting spearheaded by RED Monteagudo and the RP Butuan Mall Operations Manager Janika Mallonga.

It was then followed by a presentation of the participating farmer suppliers namely: KM7 Farmer’s Producer’s Cooperative; BFAR, Ocampo’s Farm Eggs, Triecy Vegetable Dealer, Toledo Aqua Products, Alj’s Pure Herbal Products, Sumilihon Taguibo Farmer’s Association Inc., Odbrijam Guyabano Juice, Sto. Nino MultiPurpose Cooperative, and Jabez Farm. (DA13RAFIS/PIA Caraga) Caraga INFOCUS

DA LAUNCHES BREEDING SOURCE OF ITIK PINAS IN CARAGA

By Kent Warren H. Fugoso

With its potential production efficiency and improved egglaying capacity, the Department of Agriculture (DA) - Caraga through its Livestock Program launched the Regional Center for Native Animal Development, Production, and Learning for ItikPinas, held and located at the Trento Research and Experiment Station (TRES) in Trento, Agusan del Sur, October 30.

DA Caraga Caraga INFOCUS

Regional Executive Director Abel James I. Monteagudo together with DA Caraga Regional Technical Director for Operations Rebecca R. Atega initiated the ribbon cutting, which was then followed by a turnover ceremony of 100 female and 15 male ItikPinas strain and one sack of duck feeds to the three identified farmer recipients from the Municipality of Trento, Agusan del Sur, Lingig, Surigao del Sur, and

Butuan City.

ItikPinas (IP) strain is a genetically superior breeder duck which is a product of continuous selection and organized breeding of the traditional Pateros duck. A strain that is smaller in size with a minimum amount of food consumption but with predictable higher egg production performance.

The strain was developed by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic November 14-20, 2020 |

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and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOSTPCAARRD) as an output for its Duck Industry Strategic S&T Program (ISP).

Moreover, the DA – Caraga through its TRES, withstanding its performance as one of the well managed and high performing stations in the Philippines, was chosen by the National Livestock Program (NLP) to launch the Native Animals Development, Production, and Learning Centers in three (3) strategic regions. This includes the Caraga Region, centering to the production of Itik Pinas strain as a commodity.

Livestock Program Focal Person Jekem Sanchez expressed that one of the objectives of developing the multiplier farm is to augment the low supply of poultry production in the region, specifically the duck.

Dir. Monteagudo added that the recipients should address this opportunity as a platform to call forth business initiatives that will improve the agriculture sector in

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the region, that through this, additional livelihood will prosper.

Elevating the commerce in agriculture, Ryan Raymond Fortich, one of the recipients of ItikPinas strain and owner of the Double R Sloping Agriculture Land Technology (SALT) Integrated Farm in Lingig, Surigao del Sur, said that one of his objectives anchor on the agricultural diversification.

“I came from the infrastructure sector, I have enough space that has no use already since my business was severely affected this pandemic.

I don’t want to lose my workers so I decided to convert my space to an agricultural farm. I kept them busy by building goat house, poultry house, house for farm equipment, and so on,” he said.

“To make use of my 1.5-hectare farm, I acquired multiple livestock and poultry animals for production and also for multiplying,” Fortich added.

From infrastructure to agriculture, Fortich explained that this is a good venture for creating livelihood within his area.

“I have 100 square meter of land allocated only to ItikPinas. I already have plans for this once it’s ready for production.

Maybe we can use this for balut, and salted duck egg production.

I observed, there’s no producer of such products here in Lingig.

Through this, we can create some livelihood.

We create business,” he said.

“After all, what matters most is that we gain something from this and we can help so many people especially here in Lingig. So instead of just leaving my land to empty, I make sure to make it productive.

Soon, if we are already GAP-GAHP certified, we can attract even more tourists,” he added.

Individuals, farmer cooperators, and indigenous people interested in duck farming may inquire to their respective Local Government Units through the Agriculture Office for endorsement, followed by a letter of intent addressed to the regional executive director. (DA13-RAFIS/PIA Caraga) Caraga INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

OVER 500 AGUSANONS BENEFIT FROM OUTREACH PROGRAM

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

Through the concerted efforts of the local government unit of Buenavista, Agusan del Norte and 23rd Infantry Battalion (23iB), Philippine Army, more than 500 residents have availed of the basic services including relief packs

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composed of canned goods, hygiene kits, and vitamin supplements, among others for the children and pregnant women in Barangay Olave.

Jerry Daal Escobilla, punong barangay of Olave in Buenavista,

Agusan del Norte, was delighted to have received the aid from the provincial government.

He said it has helped them in sustaining their needs.

“We are very thankful for this program which is really a big help Caraga INFOCUS

to all of us residents in Barangay Olave. We really appreciate the effort of the concerned government agencies for reaching out to us during this time of the pandemic,” said Escobilla.

According to 23rd IB Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel Julius Cesar Paulo, their mission is to end insurgency and maintain peace and order in the area.

“Our government is ready to provide people the needed services and to improve the peace and order situation in Barangay Olave. We

Caraga INFOCUS

are continuously working hand-in-hand with the locals in the community as we want to secure and protect them from the harmful terrorist group,” remarked Paulo.

This also formed part of the anniversary celebration of the Agusan Up -- the eight-point development agenda of Governor Dale Corvera in Agusan del Norte.

Governor Corvera hoped that the National Task Force to End Local Communists Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCACF) budget will be approved as he will also issue a provincial resolution for

this to be included in the General Appropriations Act for 2021, so the different barangays could utilize the allocated budget under the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) amounting to P20-million each.

“Lack of the government’s basic services provided to the barangays is one of the root causes of insurgency.

This is why the provincial government intensifies implementation of relevant programs down to the grassroots,” Corvera cited. (JPG/PIACaraga)

November 14-20, 2020 |

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AGUSAN NORTE OFFICIALS, PRLEC MEMBERS PLEDGE SUPPORT TO AGRI-TOURISM ENTERPRISE VILLAGE Officials of the Province of Agusan del Norte and member-agencies of the Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) pledged to

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By Robert E. Roperos support the newlylaunched San Antonio Agri-Tourism Enterprise Village.

During the launching program held recently in Tagnote Falls,

Remedios T. Romualdez (RTR), Agusan del Norte, Congresswoman Ma. Angelica Rosedell A m a n t e - M a t b a committed to provide scholarship slots for Caraga INFOCUS

Construction and Tourism sectors.

Governor Dale B. Corvera, on the other hand, committed to fund the construction of the training hall amounting to P100,000.00; restaurant operations worth P100,000.00; P50,000.00 for souvenir shop; and provide forest trees in line with the Agusan Up project of the provincial government.

Dir. Ashary A. Banto of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)-Caraga likewise committed to provide scholarships for the Fishery and Agriculture Sector. Mr. Romel M.

Caraga INFOCUS

Natad, Administrator of the Northern Mindanao School of Fisheries (NMSF) and Ms. Abegail B. EupeĂąa, College Administrator II of PTCAgusan del Norte are committed to provide scholarships and other livelihood programs, along with the Provincial Office.

Meanwhile, Mr. Joel Oclarit of the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA)Caraga committed 5,000 coconut seedlings for 50 hectares; 50 heads livestock chicken and feeds worth P100,000.00; and an incentive worth P100,000.00 for the participation to the coconut planting project.

Also, the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office through Ms. Silver Joy Tejano pledged on the inclusion of the beneficiaries to the agency’s Food for Work program, while Ms. Rose Murphy of the Provincial Tourism Office committed to spearhead the training on Tour Guiding.

The Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) thru PENRO Rosendo Asunto, represented

by Mr. Rodel Mendez has included Brgy. San Antonio in their National Greening Program (NGP).

Ms. Cristina Cassion of the Land Transportation

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Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB)Caraga committed to provide a route from RTR highway to Barangay San Antonio which is estimated at 3 kilometers distance.

Dir. Brenda Corvera of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Agusan del Norte will conduct training on abaca weaving (tinagak), while Engr.

Charlyn Binghoy of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) will conduct training on Culture Sensitivity.

Mr. Andre Atega, Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer of DARAgusan del Norte through Ms. Marlyn Negrido already released 25 heads swine to Women’s Group in the said barangay.

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The Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) likewise has committed to provide assorted seedlings and technical assistance to the beneficiaries.

For the part of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), Mr. Rustico Ranoco committed to conduct training on Tilapia Production and Hydroponics, as well as the provision of tilapia fingerlings.

Furthermore, Mr. Keith Duran, Provincial Head of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)-Agusan del Norte has already given P1 million cash for the establishment of Green Charcoal Project which is already transferred to Barangay San Antonio.

It was learned that the Department of Science

and Technology (DOST) already spearheaded the conduct of the technical training.

Further, DOLECaraga provided hilot massage starter toolkits composed of massage oil, face towel, steamer, body powder, and lotion.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) and Philippine Army are tasked to provide security to all member-agencies during the conduct of all PRLEC-related activities.

Finally, the Provincial Agriculturist Office through Mr. Alvin Aclan will also provide 50 heads Kaber, 2 pairs goat, 2 pairs swine, and 1,000 pcs. Tilapia fingerlings.

The DA’s regional office through RD Abel James Monteagudo will also be providing assorted seedlings.

It can be recalled that the establishment of the Agri-Tourism Enterprise is one of the PRLEC priority projects that has been identified

by Gov. Corvera to be included in the budget to be funded by the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) of Agusan del Norte. (TESDA Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte) Caraga INFOCUS

ARMY, POLICE OPERATIVES NAB MB MEMBER IN AGNOR By 1Lt. Roel T. Maglalang Joint forces of the 23rd Infantry “Masigasig” Battalion (23rd IB) and the Butuan City Police Office (BCPO) from Stations 1 and 5 arrested an active member of the Militia ng Bayan (MB) and Sanga sa Partio sa Lokalidad (SPL) under the Guerrilla Front (GF) 4-A, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) of the Communist New People’s Army (NPA) Caraga INFOCUS

Terrorist (CNT) during a law enforcement operation conducted on November 1, 2020, at Purok 22, Bagong Silang, Barangay San Mateo in Butuan City.

The apprehended CNT member was identified as Eduardo Namaog Bagsican @ LOLONG, 55, and a resident in the area.

The police personnel and the 23rd IB troopers were

in the area for the service of an arrest warrant issued against the subject CNT member. Bagsican is wanted for the crime of Attempted Murder docketed as Criminal Case No 2020-985 at the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 3 in Butuan City.

His arrest warrant was issued by Judge Marigel S. Dagani-Hugo with a recommended bail bond of PHP150,000.00. After November 14-20, 2020 |

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the arrest, authorities brought the CNT member to BCPO station 5 for custody and proper disposition.

Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, the Acting Commander of 23rd IB commended the Army and police personnel involved in the arrest of Bagsican.

“No one is above

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the law,” Paulo said, referring to the remaining members and supporters of the CNTs in Butuan City and Agusan del Norte.

He pointed out that the government will not stop in performing law enforcement operations against CNT members who have standing warrants of arrest and the implementation of the

programs and services under Executive Order No. 70, or the Whole-ofNation approach to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC).

“We will do our best to neutralize all the spoilers of peace and those who destroy our country. It is always the aim of the government to make this country constantly soaring high to achieve lasting peace and sustainable development,” Paulo said.

He also urged the remaining members of GF 4-A of the CNT to surrender as the government continue to offer them programs and services.

“Stop exploiting, manipulating, harassing and extorting from the people, especially those in the countryside. You are only making the lives of our people miserable and their communities impoverished,” Paulo said.

He also reminded the CNT members that criminal charges will be filed against them once they continue to harass and intimidate residents.

(CMO Officer, 23IB PA/ PIA-Agusan del Norte) Caraga INFOCUS

SLP PROJECT GITURN-OVER SA NASIPIT

By Karen Decamotan

Gi turn-over ni Gobernador Dale B. Corvera uban ang mga personahe sa buhatan sa Department of Social Welfare and Development, ang mga proyekto ubos sa Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) ngadto sa walo ka asosasyon sa lungsod sa Nasipit, bagohay pa lamang didto sa Brgy. 7 gymnasium sa maong lungsod.

Mosumada 175 ka myembro sa walo ka asosasyon gikan sa Cubi-Cubi Negosyo Asenso, Hiniusang Kusog sa Aclan, Cassava Saging, Santa Ana Caraga INFOCUS

Pangkabuhayan, BAE Cubi-Cubi TCT, Santa Ana Entrepreneurs, Women’s Agrivet, ug Barangay 5 SLP Association ang maka benipisyo niini nga mga proyekto.

Ang nasangpit nga mga proyekto mao ang Food processing, General Merchandise, Bangus Culture, Agrivet Supply, ug Tables, Chairs and Tent Rentals.

Tumong sa maong livelihood projects nga mahatagan og oportunidad nga mapa-uswag ang socio-economic ang sa vulnerable ug marginalize nga mga

sektor sa maong lungsod.

“Ako maghinaot isip inyong gobernador, after 3 o 5 years makita nako nga niasenso na inyong grupo ug kamo usab nga mga myembro niini, ni asenso usab. Kay mao ni ang punto nga kab-oton nato,” matud pa ni Gob. Corvera.

Kaabag ang DSWD ug ang probinsya sa Agusan del Norte pinaagi sa Amomang Agusanon Project sa AGUSAN UP!, ang walo ka punto nga development agenda sa administrasyon. (Agusan Up, LGU Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte) November 14-20, 2020 |

27

BORA-BORA MUFFLER GIDILI SA BUENAVISTA

By SV Deligero

Gidili karon sa lungsod sa Buenavista ang paggamit og bora-bora muffler sa unsamang sakyanan pinaagi sa Municipal Ordinance No. 13-2020 nga gideklarang balido sa Sangguniang Panlalawigan atol sa sesyon regular niini kaniadtong Nobyembre 3.

Ang maong lakang nahisubay sa Provincial Ordinance No. 498-2020 nga nagdili sa paggamit og bora-bora muffler sa

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| November 14-20, 2020

probinsiya.

Ang pag adopt niini sa lungsod sa Buenavista giilang makahatag og dakong tabang nga malimitahan ang kasaba ug disturbo nga mahatag niini sa palibot ug maregulate ang daghang aso nga buga gikan sa muffler nga makahatag hulga sa kahimsog ug kaluwasan sa katawhan.

Kini ipatuman sa maong lungsod pinaagi sa pagpahamtang og multa nga nag kantidad

og usa kalibo ug lima kagatos(P1,500) ka pesos ug pagkompiska sa bora-bora o pagkapriso sulod sa usa kabulan ni kinsamang nag gamit og bora-bora type muffler.

Ang pag-aproba sa balay-balaoranan sa Probinsiya giduso sa pagpaningkamot ni Board Member Erwin L. Dano pinaagi sa Sanggunian Resolution No. 494-2020.

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

RTWPB CARAGA CONDUCTS WORK ETHICS WORKSHOP FOR AGUSAN SUR STUDENTS The Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) Caraga conducted recently a discussion on Work Ethics of a Productive Worker to the students of Southway College of Technology (SOCOTECH) of San Francisco, Agusan del Sur via zoom platform.

The seminar was participated by some 94 students.

Work Ethics of a Productive Worker is a training program which aims to equip participants with work ethics enabling them to become a productive worker. It is an advocacy strategy deployed in support of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) wage subsidy programs, JobStart Philippines, Special Program for Caraga INFOCUS

Employment of Students (SPES), DOLE Youth Camp and NOSH (newly graduated nurses).

Miraflor Granada, Labor and Employment Officer III, opened the discussion by introducing the RTWPB Basic Programs and Services.

Earl Dela Victoria, Board Secretary VI discussed the module on Work Ethics of a Productive Worker. He elaborated that these modules will guide and teach them to know the work values that employers look for, identify ways on how to demonstrate productive work values to increase productivity at work and know the basic steps on how to blend into a company culture.

“Even if you are still students, you have

Earl Dela Victoria

to know your life’s perspective and goal.

Why are you studying and why are you striving hard to finish your studies,” said Dela Victoria.

Dela Victoria then encouraged the participants to be persistent and motivated in achieving their goals, to never give up despite of failures and rejection they may face in the future. He also stressed out the role and importance of productivity in their future job and to know the ethics or values of a productive worker.

Participants were given time to share and expressed their individual comments, clarifications, and questions after the session.

(RTWPB/PIAAgusan del Sur) November 14-20, 2020 |

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CARAGA MRFC ACTIVITIES, MMT INSPECTIONS CONTINUE AMIDST COVID-19 PANDEMIC

By Lizlit C. Cabag and Manevil M. Espineli The Mine Rehabilitation Fund Committees (MRFCs) and the Multipartite Monitoring Teams (MMTs) of Caraga mining companies have carried on with their respective duties by conducting regular and special

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| November 14-20, 2020

meetings and inspections amidst the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

The MRFC is a body that consists of private and public entities and one of its major duties and responsibilities is to

ensure that the approved Environmental Protection and Enhancement Program (EPEP)/Annual EPEP (AEPEP) of the mining and mineral processing projects shall be strictly implemented.

The MRFC deputizes Caraga INFOCUS

the MMT as its monitoring arm. The MRFC meetings and MMT inspections are regularly conducted quarterly for operating companies and semiannually for nonoperating companies.

The unprecedented effects of the pandemic, which include a series of lockdowns and quarantine protocols, hampered the conduct of the meetings and inspections.

In response to the current situation, the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) released Regional Memorandum Order No. 2020-24 entitled “Interim Guidelines/Protocols for the Operations of the MRFC and MMT during the General Community Quarantine (GCQ) or New Normal� so that the MRFC and the MMT can carry out their functions in monitoring the implementation of the 2020 AEPEP of mining and mineral processing projects notwithstanding the setbacks.

Some of the stipulated guidelines were the temporary reduction of MMT members which may range from four to seven members only to ensure a very minimum risk Caraga INFOCUS

of exposure to COVID-19.

Instead of quarterly monitoring, semi-annual monitoring is conducted at the mine/plant site to check compliance with the implementation of the 2020 AEPEP. As for the MRFC, meetings were conducted after the semi-annual monitoring of the MMT.

A face-to-face meeting is preferred but if not possible then a virtual meeting is conducted or a combined face-toface and virtual meeting is arranged. In the case of a face-to-face meeting, the number of attendees from the mining company is reduced to a bare minimum in order to minimize person-toperson interaction. For

both MMT and MRFC, the safety and health protocols such as wearing of face mask and personal protective equipment, social distancing and adherence to established personal hygiene/ disinfection/sanitation/ good housekeeping were strictly observed.

As of October 2020, 83 MRFC meetings and 52 MMT inspections have already been conducted.

The MGB-13, together with its stakeholders, constantly ensures that the safety of the members and its employees is of utmost importance as it continues to perform its duties and deliver public service amidst the pandemic. (MGB-13/PIASurigao del Norte) November 14-20, 2020 |

31

DOLE SURSUR STILL ACCEPTS CAMP APPLICANTS

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Provincial Office in Surigao del Sur is still accepting applicants for the COVID-19 Adjustment Measures Program (CAMP) under the Bayanihan to Recover as One-Act.

CAMP, accordingly, is a safety net program that provides one-time financial support to affected workers in the informal sector due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.

This program aims to provide financial support to the affected workers in private establishments or those who are employed by any person acting directly or indirectly in the interest of an employer in relation to an employee.

All the un-served establishments/applicants under the CAMP 1 who have applied on or before April 15, 2020, and are still temporarily closed or laid-off workers, and never received any of the financial assistance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of

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| November 14-20, 2020

Foreign Affairs (DOF), Social Security System (SSS), and Department of Agriculture (DA) may apply online at http:// reports.dole.gov.ph/.

The new applicants coming from micro, small, and medium establishments that have temporarily closed or laidoff workers may also apply for CAMP 2, and shall submit the payroll or any alternative documents stated in the DOLE Labor Advisory No.12-A, s.2020.

DOLE Surigao del Sur Provincial Chief Genebelle Bal stated, that the individual application of a displaced and temporarily laid-off workers can also apply online and shall submit the following documents:

a) a clear photo (him/herself) holding a valid govt-issued ID;

b) a certificate issued

by SSS that applicant is not a recipient of any financial assistance from SSS;

c) proof of the unemployment (Certificate of employment, Notice of Termination/Affidavit of Termination of

Employment).

Bal also clarified that those government employees, beneficiaries of the Department of Finance’s (DOF’s) Small Business Wage Subsidy (SBWS) program, who availed the SSS Unemployment benefit, DSWD’s 4Ps and SAP beneficiaries, and the farmers availed the DA Cash Assistance for Rice Farmers are excluded to avail the COVID-19 Adjustment Measures Program (CAMP) from DOLE.

Bal further said the owners of the establishments, the top management and workers with a monthly gross salary of P40,000.00 and above are excluded from the CAMP.

For inquiries, they may contact DOLESurigao del Sur through hotline no. 0933-8588324 or telephone no.

(086)211-3378, or email to dolesursurcamp2@ gamil.com or message at the DOLE Surigao del Sur Facebook Page Account.

(NGPB/PIA-Surigao del Sur) Caraga INFOCUS

MINDANAO NEWS

MINDA TO ENDORSE CORN SILO PROGRAM TO MINDANAO PROVINCES

By Prexx Marnie Kate Trozo

With the support of funding partner Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP), Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) said it is bringing its Corn Grains

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| November 14-20, 2020

Storage Silos (COGSS) initiative to all the island’s provinces and towns.

In a Facebook post on Wednesday, Secretary Emmanuel Piñol said he will

present to the Philippine Corn Congress Thursday the Mindanao Corn Industry Development Program and spell out the need for the region’s Caraga INFOCUS

local government units to invest in storage facilities to boost corn production, protect farmers from price manipulation, and generate revenues for the local government units (LGU).

He said the MinDA Corn Program aims to turn Mindanao corn farming from a seasonal commodity to a wellorganized industry.

Piñol said the agency would assist the LGUs in establishing the COGSS facility under an Economic Enterprise Program.

Caraga INFOCUS

“At peak harvest time when traders traditionally manipulate corn buying prices because of the lack of post-harvest facilities, farmers could deposit their produce in the COGSS while waiting for a better price. Using the deposited corn as a guarantee, the farmers could avail of a cash advance which will be deducted when he finally sells his produce at a better price,” he said.

The MinDA said the municipality of Baungon in Bukidnon would be the first Mindanao LGU

to implement the said program to protect corn farmers from price manipulators.

He said Misamis Oriental earlier manifested interest in implementing the same program.

Four other provinces-Lanao del Sur, Davao del Norte, Bukidnon, and North Cotabato--have been identified for the same program proposed to be funded by the European Union Grant under the Mindanao Rise Program, Piñol said. (PNA)

November 14-20, 2020 |

35

NOCOT GUV BACKS MINDA’S MINDANAO RIVER BASIN PROJECT

By Edwin Fernandez North Cotabato Governor Nancy Catamco has welcomed the proposed Mindanao River Basin Project (MRBP) by the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) to address the recurring flood problem in the province and the 220,000-hectare Liguasan marsh.

The MRBP covers 21 sub-basins on the island of Mindanao, including the Pulangi River that was seen by experts as the cause of the flooding of Mindanao’s lowlands and marshlands.

Catamco, who met with MinDA Policy Planning and Project

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| November 14-20, 2020

ADDRESSING FLOODS IN MINDANAO. North Cotabato Governor Nancy Catamco (right) listens to the presentation of Mindanao Development Authority Project Development Officer Joey Recimilla (left) about the Mindanao River Basin Project at the governor’s office in Kidapawan City on Saturday (Nov. 14, 2020).

The project aims to put an end to the recurring floods in Mindanao’s lowlands. (Photo courtesy of North Cotabato PIO)

Development Officer Joey Recimilla here Saturday, ordered the creation of a technical working group to strengthen the province’s participation in the project.

“I strongly support this comprehensive project and local government units must be involved from planning to actual implementation and its possible impact on the agriculture sector,” she said in a statement.

Catamco will host the Mindanao River Basin Management Council meeting on November 27, to be led by MinDA chair,

Secretary Emmanuel Piñol, at the provincial Capitol here.

A huge portion of North Cotabato lies within the Liguasan marshland, which is regularly submerged in floodwater when the Pulangi River overflows.

Piñol has been batting for a more comprehensive antiflood program through massive tree-planting in the balding forests of Mindanao as a long-term program, as well as the dredging of heavily silted rivers and waterways in many parts of the island.

(PNA) Caraga INFOCUS

NATIONAL NEWS

SEC. MARTIN ANDANAR PCOO

NEWS CORNER P r e s i d e n t i a l Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar on Tuesday offered sympathy to the family of former Deputy Speaker and Cebu City First District Rep. Raul del Mar who passed away Monday evening.

Del Mar, who served as congressman of Cebu City’s north district for nine terms since 1987, died in a hospital in Manila. He was 79.

House of Representatives Secretary-General Jocelia Bighani-Sipin confirmed del Mar’s death.

“We pray for the eternal repose of his soul, and for his family and loved ones to find strength in this time of grief,” Andanar said in a statement.

Andanar said del Mar’s commitment to his

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| November 14-20, 2020

PCOO EXTEN SOLON’S FAM

work will be remembered by the constituents he served during his tenure, particularly the underprivileged.

He also hailed del Mar for helping the growth and development of his district on matters of infrastructure, social services, and poverty alleviation.

Andanar also cited the late lawmaker for his legislative work on media concerns.

Del Mar was the principal author of Republic Act No. 11122 of 2018 which declares September 21 of each year as a working holiday in the cities and province of Cebu in celebration of the Cebu Press Freedom Day.

“Being the son of a journalist and a manager of a local newspaper, his dedication to promote and improve a free yet responsible journalism

and media landscape is truly worth noting, which led to people hailing him as ‘Kampeon sa Medya,’” he said.

Speaker Lord Allan Velasco, in a separate statement, expressed his deepest condolences Caraga INFOCUS

NDS SYMPATHY TO CEBU MILY

and sympathies to the family of the former Deputy Speaker.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and his constituencies in the first district of Cebu City, whom he had served well despite his health Caraga INFOCUS

condition,” Velasco said.

Velasco noted that del Mar has proven his passion and commitment to public service by attending virtual plenary sessions and public hearings of the House while in hospital to fulfill

his duties and mandate as a lawmaker.

“Never a day in his job was he absent. His contributions to Congress and the nation cannot be overstated,” he said.

(PNA/Azer Parrocha) November 14-20, 2020 |

39

BONG GO LAUDS FRONTLINERS’ DEDICATION, SACRIFICE AMID COVID

By Jemin B. Guillermo Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has recognized the dedication and sacrifices of the frontliners amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

In the recent launching of the 91st

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| November 14-20, 2020

Malasakit Center in Antique, November 13, where he attended virtually, Go has expressed his gratitude to the frontliners in the healthcare community for continuing to provide the best care and services

possible to their patients and communities, he said in a press release.

Senator Bong Go lauds the frontiliners especially for their dedication and sacrifices to serve the people amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Caraga INFOCUS

This, he expressed during the launching of the Malasakit Center at Angel Salazar Memorial General Hospital in San Jose de Buenavista town, Antique.

The Malasakit Center in Antique, which is a one-stop shop for medical assistance from the government, is located at the Angel Salazar Memorial General Hospital in San Jose de Buenavista town.

“Gusto ko pasalamatan ang administrative staff ng mga ospital at, lalonglalo na, ang mga

Caraga INFOCUS

medical frontliners para sa inyong dedikasyon at sakripisyo sa inyong profession.

Sa kabila ng peligro na dala ng COVID-19, patuloy pa rin kayong nagsasakripisyo para sa ating mga kababayan. Buhay ninyo ang nakataya dito kaya maraming, maraming salamat,” said Go.

He stressed the importance of ensuring the stability of the country’s healthcare system throughout this unprecedented time and expressed the government’s commitment to resolve

issues of corruption confronting the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation.

“Pasensya na po dahil talagang may problema ang PhilHealth sa korapsyon.

Hindi kami titigil ni Pangulong Duterte.

Tuloy-tuloy ang kampanya namin laban sa korapsyon sa gobyerno. Sa kung sino man ang napatunayang nagnakaw sa pondo ng taumbayan ay talagang hahabulin at yayariin namin kayo,” he vowed.

He pledged that they will do everything to ensure that the money

November 14-20, 2020 |

41

paid by the PhilHealth members will be accounted for.

Even before becoming a Senator, Go already worked to ensure the efficient delivery of healthcare services to millions of Filipinos.

After being elected as Senator, and as chair of the Senate Committee on Health, he authored and pushed for the passage of Republic Act No. 11463 or the Malasakit Centers Acts of 2019, which was signed into law by President Duterte on December 2, 2019.

Under the law, the Department of Health, Department of Social Welfare and Development, PhilHealth and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office are pulled together in the Malasakit Center for people to seek medical assistance.

Aside from the medical frontliners, Go also recognized the local government officials and national agencies who have been tirelessly fulfilling their mandates and working hard to serve their constituents despite the ongoing crises.

Present during the launching program

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| November 14-20, 2020

were House Deputy Speaker and Antique Representative Loren B. Legarda, Governor Rhodora Cadiao, Vice Governor Edgar Denosta, Secretary Michael Lloyd Dino of Office of the Presidential Assistant for the Visayas, and other officials and representatives from DOH, DSWD, PCSO and PhilHealth as partner agencies of the Malasakit Center.

Antique Lone District Representative and House Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda thanks Senator Bong Go for conceptualizing and working to institutionalize the Malasakit Center program which seeks to make it more convenient for Filipinos in getting medical assistance from the government.

Go also took the opportunity to thank Legarda for her untiring support and helpful advice for the past years.

For her part, Legarda praised the Senator for his continuing efforts to bring government services closer to the people.

She specifically thanked him for conceptualizing and working to institutionalize

the Malasakit Center program which seeks to make it more convenient for Filipinos in getting medical assistance from the government.

“I am very happy to support the vision of our hardworking and humble senator. I am so grateful that, as the representative of Antique [where we need] health care most, you have not forgotten us. In fact, you have made us part of the beneficiaries of the Malasakit Centers,” said Legarda.

“This is what we need in government indeed: convergence.

‘Wag natin pahirapan ang mga mahihirap na paikot-ikot, mahirap na nga, papahirapan pa.

I am extremely happy to share in your joy of this inauguration of the Malasakit Center that many indigent Antiqueños will benefit from because of your kind generosity. We are forever grateful,” she added.

The Malasakit Center at the ASMGH is the first of its kind in Antique and the sixth in Western Visayas. (PIA6/ With report from OSBG) Caraga INFOCUS

ZUBIRI DONATES RICE TO TYPHOON ROLLY AND ULYSSES VICTIMS SOURCED FROM LOCAL FARMERS In the wake of Typhoons Rolly and Ulysses, Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri personally headed to ravaged provinces in the Bicol Region to survey the damage and to extend assistance to victims through the donation of 700 sacks of rice, bought from farmers within the region.

Zubiri’s first stop, on 14 November 2020, was Catanduanes, where he turned over 150 sacks of rice to Gov. Joseph Cua, for the local government to distribute to affected residents. Afterwards, he headed to the province of Sorsogon, where he Caraga INFOCUS

turned another 150 sacks over to Vice Gov. Manuel Fortes, Jr., and then to the province of Albay, where he handed 250 sacks over to Gov. Al Francis Bichara.

“Our local governments have been on the ground this past week, taking stock of the damage, the losses, the displacement, so we trust that they will know best where to direct our donations right now,” he explained.

“We also made sure to source our rice donations from local farmers right here in the Bicol Region, so that we’re able to help

them as well,” Zubiri added. “Mahihirapang bumangon ang mga magsasaka natin, kaya talagang dapat matulungan natin sila, lalo na ngayon na bagsak ang presyo ng palay.”

“It’s a lot to deal with—recovering from the one-two punch of Rolly and Ulysses, and even Quinta, on top of the ongoing pandemic.

Kaya talagang lahat ng paraan na makakatulong tayo, gawin natin.”

He is also set to visit Camarines Sur on 15 November 2020, to turn over another 150 sacks of rice to Gov. Migz Villafuerte.

November 14-20, 2020 |

43

Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri

ZUBIRI: WHO’S IN CHARGE OF DISASTER MANAGEMENT? In the plenary session devoted to the 2021 budget deliberations on Wednesday, the Senate took on the budget for the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and its attached agencies.

Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri took to the floor to raise concerns regarding the government’s disaster

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| November 14-20, 2020

management-adjacent agencies, in the wake of destructive typhoons Rolly and Quinta.

He had traveled to the provinces of Catanduanes, Albay, Sorsogon, and Camarines Sur over the weekend to extend assistance to typhoon-struck communities and to hear out concerns raised by provincial and local

government officials.

Zubiri brought up that the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) is claiming that it needs a go signal from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) to release dam water ahead of time, which would have prevented the severe floods that Caraga INFOCUS

inundated parts of Luzon after Typhoon Ulysses.

PAG-ASA officials, communicating through DOST budget sponsor Senator Joel Villanueva, refuted this, explaining that NIA remains in full control over dam discharge operations.

They said they did follow protocol by releasing a flood warning signal on November 8 but that they have no authority to order the release of dam water.

Zubiri also relayed questions from the government of Albay, particularly regarding the municipality of Guinobatan, which was ravaged by lahar flow.

The local government is claiming that it did not receive a warning from the proper agencies, and was

unable to prepare for the disaster.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), meanwhile, is claiming to have followed protocol and to have issued bulletins to the proper offices ahead of time. It falls on the local government, it explained, to cascade this information down.

“Nagtuturuan po tayo (They’re pointing fingers). We have no clue who is in-charge,” Zubiri said. “Don’t you think it’s about time that we have one agency that is supposed to take charge? Do all the planning, the preparation, the rehabilitation, and climate change mitigation efforts?”

“I was always being

asked the same thing, in Albay, in Catanduanes: Who’s in charge? Sabi ko (I said) OCD, pero ang sagot nila, ‘Sir, hindi po namin nakikita ’yung head ng OCD kasi head rin ng NDRRMC iyan.’ At yung OCD, undersecretary ang head, awkward namang pag-utusan niya ang mga secretaries (but their answer, ‘Sir we did not consult with the head of the OCD because he is also the head of the NDRRMC’. And the OCD, undersecretary is the head. It is awkward to order around the secretaries),” he said.

Zubiri promised that a hearing addressing the recent disasters, and disaster management problems, will be held in the Senate next week.

(PR)

Contributed photo

Caraga INFOCUS

November 14-20, 2020 |

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RED CROSS SENDS HUMAN SUPPORT TO CAGAYAN VA EFFORTS IN THE WAKE As the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) continues its response to typhoon Ulysses (international name Vamco) in different parts of Luzon, the country’s foremost humanitarian organization sent an augmentation support to Cagayan Valley after many houses in various towns in the region submerged due to heavy rains brought by the typhoon.

On Saturday, PRC Chairman and CEO Senator Richard J. Gordon immediately ordered the deployment of staff and volunteers to conduct rescue and relief operations in the area.

“Cagayan needs our help badly, so, we immediately sent our teams there with rescue vehicles and boats. Our volunteers from Subic

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| November 14-20, 2020

Philippine Red Cross chairman and CEO Senator Richard Gordon (File photo)

and Nueva Vizcaya also went there to support our rescue operations in flooded areas, while the Red Cross Cagayan chapter started distributing hot meals and provide the needed assistance to the residents at the evacuation centers,” said Gordon.

On Sunday afternoon, another team of Red Cross staff and volunteers were deployed to Cagayan including volunteers

from Water, Search and Rescue (WASAR) team from Cavite.

The PRC also sent a 10,000-liter water tanker, one food truck, one ambulance, one rescue boat, one Land Cruiser that will be used for assessing the situation in the area, and two ten-wheeler trucks that carry non-food items to be distributed to the residents.

The non-food items include 500 sets Caraga INFOCUS

NITARIAN AUGMENTATION ALLEY, STEPS UP RESCUE E OF TYPHOON ULYSSES of sleeping kits, jerry cans, hygiene kits and tarpaulins.

“We have mobilized all our available resources to meet this new challenge, supporting communities that are getting back on their feet

Caraga INFOCUS

after being hit hard by multiple storms on top of the relentless physical, emotional and economic toll of COVID-19,” Gordon said.

Typhoon Ulysses is the 13th big storm that hit

the country this year.

Aside from Cagayan Valley, it also affected the National Capital Region (NCR), various parts of Central Luzon, the province of Rizal and some areas in Bicol.

November 14-20, 2020 |

47

GORDON BATS FOR CLOSER IS BETTER FOR ADDITIONAL CALAMITY FUNDS TO DISASTERHIT LGUS With the buffet of disasters battering different parts the country yearly, Senator Richard J. Gordon has proposed additional allocations to augment the calamity funds of local government units, especially those that were hit by the recent disasters that hit the country, such as the regions of Bicol, Cagayan and the National Capital Region, among others.

During the plenary deliberation for the budget of the Department of Budget and Management, Gordon pointed out that the additional allocation would reach the people faster if added to the LGU’s budget.

“Closer is better.

We should put the

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| November 14-20, 2020

money where the people are. Maybe we could increase the LGU funds instead of national government calamity funds. We need to give them the tools to reduce the suffering of the people,” he said.

The senator pointed out that as the recent typhoons have shown, LGUs must have more training on disaster preparedness and response and they could use part of the additional allocations for it.

“Providing them with additional funds would expedite the rehabilitation of provinces that got the brunt of the disasters. They could also fund more training for their people,” Gordon explained.

PRC CAU LEPTOSPI TO WA

After the series of typhoons which hit the country and left many areas flooded, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) is reminding the public of the risk of leptospirosis.

“We are preparing a standard campaign that I know our kababayan can simply follow. We are taking the next steps to secure the people Caraga INFOCUS

UTIONS PUBLIC AGAINST IROSIS CONTRACTING DUE ADING IN FLOODWATER

Contributed photo

from leptospirosis,” PRC Chairman & CEO, Sen. Richard Gordon said.

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection transmitted by many animals, such as rodents and other vermin. Animal wastes such as urine and feces may contain leptospira spirochetes bacteria, especially from rats, which contaminate Caraga INFOCUS

the soil, water, and vegetation.

Non-specific symptoms, or signs of a person having leptospirosis can be fever, muscle pain, and headache.

In some cases, calfmuscle pain and reddish eyes are the symptoms.

Severe cases can result in liver or kidney failure, with the brain being affected.

Noticeable signs can be a yellowish body discoloration, darkcolored urine and light stools, low urine output, and severe headache.

Red Cross is reaching out to health institutions, communities, health workers, and local individuals to check if any of these signs and symptoms are present among households. PRC reminds the public of

the preventive measures against leptospirosis:

• Avoid swimming or wading in potentially contaminated water or flood water

• Use boots and gloves, or any proper protection available when exposed to flooded waters

• Drain potentially contaminated water

• Control rodents in the household by using traps or poison designed for rats

• Maintain cleanliness in the house

Aside from these measures, PRC mobilized its Health Services to reach out to the communities.

Health campaigns are sent to evacuation centers, while information materials are distributed to concerned institutions accordingly.

November 14-20, 2020 |

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McDo Kindness Kitchens to reach more hungry Filipino communities. McDonald’s commits to aid government in eradicating hunger in the Philippines by actively participating in the Pilipinas Kontra Gutom movement. The company demonstrated its initial commitment as McDonald’s Philippines President and CEO Kenneth S. Yang joined Zero Hunger Task Force Chair Secretary Karlo Nograles in distributing meals to communities in need in Bacoor, Cavite on November 6, 2020. They were also joined by Bacoor, Cavite Mayor Lani Mercado, Barangay Kagawad Nieves Dela Cruz and Caridad Sanchez of Barangay Alima and Sineguelsan.

NOGRALES, MCDONALD’S KINDNESS KITCHEN DISTRIBUTE 2,000 HOT MEALS IN MANILA Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles, in close coordination with the Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC), distributed 2,000 hot

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| November 14-20, 2020

meals prepared by the McDonald’s Kindness Kitchen (MKK) to the Manila City Government last November 16, 2020.

The effort was part

of the Pilipinas Kontra Gutom (PKG) campaign, an informal partnership between stakeholders in government and the private sector.

Caraga INFOCUS

Manila Mayor Isko Moreno and other local officials received the food packs which were distributed to families all over the city.

During the distribution ceremony, Nograles stressed that “We are working with the private sector to address the pressing problem of hunger, which unsurprisingly is present even in metropolitan areas. The hunger issue has been heightened because of the recent typhoon which struck the National Capital Region.”

The Malacañang official was joined in the event by Kenneth Yang, McDonald’s President & CEO and RMHC President, Margot Torres, McDonald’s Managing Director & RMHC Vice President, Kin Lichauco, Vice President and Head of Corporate Affairs of San Miguel Corp. and Jonah de Lumen-Pernia, Director of Public Affairs and Communications of Coca-Cola Philippines.

Nograles, who chairs the government’s Task Force Zero Hunger, has been closely working with private groups and individuals for the PKG initiative, Caraga INFOCUS

which he called “a multisectoral movement that also includes the academe, non-profit organizations, leading corporate entities in the country, and members of the public who all advocate for putting an end to involuntary hunger and addressing food shortages during emergencies.

The official likewise explained that apart from formulating antihunger policies, the Task Force is part of an allencompassing program to form a lasting and effective public-private partnership that aims to achieve food security for Filipino families.

“Our approach is comprehensive.

We aim to address food production, food distribution and accessibility, and combat malnutrition both in urban areas and in the

countryside,” remarked the Zero Hunger Czar.

The RMHC, which was established in 1995, is the charity arm of McDonald’s Philippines.

Part of its mission is to effect positive changes in the lives of children through meaningful programs in education, health and wellness.

The group has so far distributed 320,000 meals through its McDo Kindness Kitchen to healthcare workers, police and security personnel, LGU volunteers, government agencies and local communities.

For his part, Mayor Isko Moreno thanked the RMHC and Nograles for the food assistance, citing “the urgent need for all sectors to cooperate on the hunger problem because many Filipino families need assistance in their everyday nutritional needs.”

November 14-20, 2020 |

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PRESIDENT DUTERTE BACKS BICOL REGION’S AMBITIOUS FLOOD CONTROL PROJECT Bicol officials received strong backing from President Rodrigo Roa Duterte for the revival of the Bicol River Basin Development Authority that will carry out an ambitious project aimed at controlling floods in the region.

The Bicol River Basin Development Authority, organized by former Camarines Sur governor Luis Villafuerte, hasn’t fully

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| November 14-20, 2020

materialized because of lack of funding, Presidential Adviser on Bicol Affairs Marvel Clavecilla said.

President Duterte was in Pili, Camarines Sur Sunday to oversee government response to Typhoon Ulysses, which brought massive flooding in Bicol Region.

Under Bicol’s flood control plan, Clavecilla said three barangays

in Baao, Camarines Sur would be developed as impounding area for flood water. It will be called Phantom Baao Lake.

“During heavy flooding, the water will be impounded in that area.

And during dry season, we can plant other crops there. But it will take — it will have a social impact on some three barangays in Baao,” Clavecilla told Caraga INFOCUS

the President.

President Duterte said that if Bicol officials are really determined to build a catch basin in Camarines Sur, they must come up with a comprehensive plan in relocating the affected population, as he noted the project’s social impact.

To realize the project, Clavecilla said they will coordinate with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the provincial government of Camarines Sur, and the Department of

Caraga INFOCUS

Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

“We need all their cooperation, their support para po maging feasible ang pag-rehab ng Bicol River Basin Development Authority.”

Camarines Sur suffers from yearly flooding during typhoon season as flood waters coming from Camarines Norte and Albay overflow the province’s tributaries, inundating low-lying areas.

With the construction of an impounding area, Bicol officials hope they

can control floods that disrupt people’s lives and affect their livelihood.

Clavecilla also extended his gratitude to the President for the government’s response to Typhoons Rolly, Quinta, and Ulysses.

“Ang DSWD po ang nangunguna tumulong sa amin dito sa Camarines Sur at saka sa the whole of Bicol Region,” he told the President.

Vehicles from the DPWH were of great help in distributing relief materials and food packs, he added. PND

November 14-20, 2020 |

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GOV’T MAY SECURE ADVANCE PROCUREMENT FOR COVID-19 VACCINE BY YEAR-END The Philippines may enter into an Advance Market Commitment through multilateral arrangement with the World Bank (WB) and Asian Development Bank (ADB) as the country’s finance managers for the purchase of COVID-19 vaccines, National Task Force Against COVID-19 chief implementer

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| November 14-20, 2020

Carlito Galvez Jr. said on Tuesday.

Reporting to President Rodrigo Roa Duterte during a meeting on government response on the pandemic, Galvez said the government could secure advance procurement by the end of the year and proceed with the signing of loan agreements with the

financial institutions.

The government could also tap various modes of financing including Private-Public Tripartite Agreement without cost with the government, Galvez said.

“So the private sector will finance it by buying directly to the vaccine company but with the regulation that Caraga INFOCUS

the DOH (Department of Health) will be the one who will know, who will decide where the vaccine will be given.”

After that, the task force will make a recommendation for an Emergency Use Authorization to be issued by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) through an EO as proposed by the Health secretary.

The task force, he said, is eyeing 30 million to 50 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine next year once it is rolled

Caraga INFOCUS

out abroad and in the Philippines.

Currently, the task force, in coordination with vaccine experts is continuing its evaluation on the right vaccine to procure, Galvez told the President.

Galvez said experts have ranked 17 possible sources of vaccines from other countries. Out of the 17 candidate vaccines, nine are already in the Phase 3 clinical trial.

“At sa Phase 3 trial pong ito, tatlo po doon ang magkakaroon po ng trial dito po sa atin this

coming December and January,” he said.

Galvez also reported vaccine commitments from private donors such as from businessman Enrique Razon, who is donating 300,000 doses.

The Lucio Tan Group, San Miguel Corp., and Go Negosyo are also making donations.

Galvez said private entities are raising one to two million doses, in which 50 to 80 percent will be given in form of donation and the rest will be used for their poor essential workers. PND

November 14-20, 2020 |

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PRRD APPROVES GRANT OF ACTIVE HAZARD PAY, SPECIAL RISK ALLOWANCE TO COVID-19 HEALTH FRONTLINERS

By Alexa Janine M. Tinsay President Rodrigo Roa Duterte signed on November 16 two administrative orders providing additional compensation for COVID-19 health frontliners.

Presidential S p o k e s p e r s o n Secretary Roque during the November Caraga INFOCUS

17 press briefing said Administrative Order No. 35 (AO 35) authorizes the grant of ‘Active Hazard Duty Pay (AHDP) to Human Resources for Health (HRH) serving in the frontlines during the state of National Emergency’.

The AHDP can reach up to Php 3,000 per month, pro-rated based

on the number of days the HRH physically reports for work in a month.

Recipients of AHDP are medical, allied medical, and other personnel in the public sector including civilian employees whether regular, contractual or casual positions, whether full or part-time and November 14-20, 2020 |

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Contributed photo

contract-of service or job order personnel together with duly accredited and registered barangay health workers.

These health frontliners should be physically reporting for work at their assigned work stations on the prescribed official working hours.

However, those engaged without employer-employee relationship and funded from non personal services budgets are excluded from the AHDP.

In addition, the President also signed Administrative Order No. 36 providing ‘Special Risk Allowance (SRA) to Private and Public Health

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Workers Directly Catering to or in Contact with COVID-19 Patients During the State of National Emergency’.

This SRA benefit can reach up to Php 5000 per month, likewise pro-rated based on the number of days the recipient physically reported for work.

This approved benefit is for public and private health workers [medical, allied medical, and other personnel] who directly provided treatment and support care to COVID-19 patients in hospitals, laboratories, or medical quarantine facilities. For the private health workers, they

must be assigned in the designated COVID-19 units of hospitals, laboratories, or medical and quarantine facilities as certified by the DOH.

Similar to AO 35, recipients also include civilian employees, contract-of-service, and job order personnel and should also be physically reporting for work in designated COVID-19 units as certified by the Department of Health (DOH) on prescribed official working hours.

The DBM in coordination with the DOH shall issue the guidelines in the implementation of said orders. (AJMT/PIAIDPD) Caraga INFOCUS

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte approved the recommendation for the Philippines entering into Advance Market Commitments with private manufacturers of anti-COVID-19 vaccines Photo

by Toto Lozano/Presidential Photo

PRRD APPROVES ADVANCE PAYMENT FOR COVID-19 VACCINE

By Adora R. Rodriguez Presidential Spokesperson Secretary Harry Roque announced the approval of President Rodrigo Duterte on the Philippines entering into advance market commitment together with the private vaccine developers Caraga INFOCUS

and release of advance payment based on negotiated terms for corona virus vaccine procurement.

“Pumayag na po tayo na magkakaroon po tayo ng advance, kasi po pag hindi tayo pumayag,

e baka mangulelat tayo dun sa mga bansa na makakakuha ng vaccine.

So alam ko po noong una ayaw ni Presidente yan, pero nung nakita po niya yung listahan ng mga bansang nag-aadvance payment, e hindi naman November 14-20, 2020 |

59

Contributed photo

tayo magpapahuli, basta meron naman tayong pondo,” (We have already agreed to release an advance payment so we won’t be left behind by the countries who will get hold of the vaccine.

Before, the President doesn’t like it but he agreed when he saw the list of the countries who have paid in advance, for as long a as we have the funds,) Roque explained in today’s virtual briefing.

The government has to undergo the five major steps in entering the advance market

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commitments such as: signing of a confidentiality data agreement; negotiations and signing of the advance market commitments; registration with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) through the emergency use authority (EUA); advance payment based on the negotiated terms; and mobilization and delivery.

The China National Medical Product Administration (NMPA) has already issued two EUA, which means they are already using the

vaccine for a limited time among high risk population while US is expected to issue the same this December, Roque said.

For the Philippines, implementing the vaccination should require the President’s signed Executive Order for the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to issue the EUA, which will speed up the process of applying the vaccine, carrying the same approval authorization of the FDAs of countries that developed the vaccine.

Caraga INFOCUS

“Dati-rati po bago magamit ang isang bakuna rito na approved na ng US FDA o ng Chinese FDA, kinakailangan muna ng anim na buwan na pagsusuri pero kung mapipirmahan itong Executive Order na eto, aba’y bente uno araw na lang po magagamit na rin natin sa Pilipinas. So, yung dalawang bakuna po sa China, Sinopharm at saka Sinovac, anytime pwede na pong aprobahan ng Chinese FDA. All we need [is to wait for] 20 days pwede na tayong magbakuna sa Pilipinas. Ganundin naman po pagdating sa Pfizer at sa Moderna na napatunayang 94% ang effectivity laban sa Corona virus,” (Before a vaccine is administered here in the Philippines though already approved

by US FDA or Chinese FDA, it has to undergo a six-month screening but once the Executive Order was signed, after 21 days, we can already use it here in the Philippines.

So, the two vaccines of China, Sinopharm and Sinovac, anytime, they can be signed by Chinese FDA. All we need [is to wait for] 20 days and we can already Caraga INFOCUS

implement vaccination in the Philippines), Roque said.

Procuring the vaccine can be done through different legal modes such as the following:

1.

Government Procurement Reform Act (RA9184) or the Bayanihan to Recover As One Act (RA11494) through the PSDBM

2. Multilateral Loans (ADB-WB Project Loan for Vaccine through the DOF

3. Bilateral Loans ( UK/China) through the DOF

4. Private Sector Financing Through a Tripartite Agreement (national government, pharmaceutical company and the private sector company)

“Magkakaroon po tayo ng kasunduan sa panig ng tatlong partido, yung gobyerno natin, yung pharmaceutical company at yung private sector company.” (We will have a Tripartite Agreement among the government, pharmaceutical company and the private sector company), Roque said explaining further the private sector financing.

“ Nag-commit

na po ang ating mga pribadong kumpanya na sila ang bibili ng isang bilyong dosage dahil hindi naman po sila makabili diretso sa mga gobyerno na nagpo-produce ng mga bakuna. Sila po ang bibili, sila ang gagastos pero singkwenta hanggang otsenta porsyento, ibibigay nila po sa ating gobyerno para ipamigay sa mahihirap.

Yung balanse gagamitin nila sa kanilang mga empleyado dahil yung mga empleyado naman nila hindi naman lahat yan ay mga mayayaman, (The private sector companies have already committed to purchase 1B amount of dosage since they are not allowed to purchase directly from governments producing the vaccine.

They (private sector companies) will purchase but 50-80% will be given to the government to be distributed to the poor.

What is left will be for their employees since not all of their employees are well-off,) Roque explained thanking the private sector for their bayanihan efforts. (ARR/ PIA-IDPD) November 14-20, 2020 |

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GOV’T TO USE COVID-19 ANTIGEN TESTS IN EVACUATION CENTERS The government will use antigen tests to screen families displaced by typhoons for coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), Malacañang said Tuesday.

In a press briefing in Alcala, Cagayan, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said

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By Azer Parrocha the government has anticipated the need to conduct testing in evacuation centers even before the OCTA Research Group suggested testing to ensure Covid-19 is not transmitted among evacuees.

“Bago pa po imungkahi iyan ng OCTA

Research Group ay inaassure ko po kayo na in place na po iyong polisiya ng gobyerno na magbigay po ng Covid testing sa mga evacuation centers at ngayon po ang gagamitin nga po natin para mas marami at mas mabilis ay ang antigen Caraga INFOCUS

Contributed photo

test sa lahat ng ating mga evacuation centers (Even before the OCTA Research Group made the suggestion, I assure you that policies were in place to provide Covid testing in evacuation centers. Now, we are going to use antigen tests in evacuation centers, which is faster and can cover more individuals),” Roque said.

He acknowledged the need to conduct testing to curb the spread of the highly infectious disease, even if physical distancing is already being implemented in evacuation centers.

“Minsan po talaga hindi maiwasan dahil halos napakadami po nating mga kababayan na talagang sumilong sa mga evacuation centers.

(Sometimes, staying close Caraga INFOCUS

to each other cannot be avoided due to the large number of evacuees),” Roque said.

He noted that not all evacuees may be able to avail of the free antigen testing as only those who show signs and symptoms would be prioritized.

Roque also assured that evacuees who show signs and symptoms of Covid-19 would immediately be transferred to separate facilities for quarantine.

Antigen tests, which also use swab samples, can reveal or detect if a person is infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

It only takes 15 minutes to 30 minutes to show results, compared to the reverse transcriptionpolymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test, which takes days.

The World Health Organization has recommended the use of antigen tests in case of the unavailability of RT-PCR tests, congregate settings or outbreaks.

Earlier, Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said the transmission of Covid-19 in evacuation centers was a “very strong possibility.”

Duque advised local government units to observe minimum health standards to avoid the spread of the virus among the evacuees.

On Tuesday, health authorities logged 1,148 new confirmed cases, increasing the country’s tally to 410,718 since March.

Of the figure, 374,543 have recovered, while 7,862 have died. (PNA) November 14-20, 2020 |

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GOV’T EXPECTS SPIKE IN COVID-19 CASES; OPENS NEW ISOLATION HUB

By Lade Jean Kabagani

NEW QUARANTINE FACILITY. The officials of the National Task Force (NTF) against Covid-19 lead the inauguration of the newly-built mega quarantine facility in Barangay Mapagong, Calamba, Laguna on Saturday (Nov. 14, 2020). The new isolation center is the largest quarantine facility in the country, according to the NTF. (Contributed photo from NTF Covid-19)

The national government inaugurated on Saturday another mega quarantine facility to isolate more coronavirus patients in

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| November 14-20, 2020

Barangay Mapagong, Calamba, Laguna.

Officials of the National Task Force (NTF) against Covid-19

officially opened the 550bed quarantine center to increase the isolation capacity of Region 4-A (Calabarzon).

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The PHP50-million isolation facility is complete with amenities suitable for Covid-19 patients, including free Wi-fi.

Healthcare workers who will be assigned in the isolation center are also provided with sleeping quarters.

CCTV cameras are installed within the buildings.

Meanwhile, National Policy against Covid-19 chief implementer and vaccine czar, Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. cautioned the public on the possible spike in the coronavirus cases amid the onslaught of typhoons in the country.

Galvez said the government expects a reasonable increase of Covid-19 cases as physical distancing in some evacuation centers might “difficult to be Caraga INFOCUS

observed” making the virus transmission more possible.

“Dahil nagkaroon ng sunud-sunod na kalamidad, ang ating evacuation centers natin ‘di maiiwasan magkaroon ng pagkakadikit-dikit (Since we were successively hit by disasters, we couldn’t prevent close contact),” Galvez said. “And we expect na magkakaroon tayo ng (to have) increases on our Covid-19 cases.”

Galvez urged the public not to be complacent and keep safe against the risks of Covid-19 infection.

He said people should not forget to “at least wear a face mask at all times.”

Covid-19 vaccine

On the other hand,

Galvez earlier said the government will prioritize around 25 million Filipinos to initially get the vaccine during the first round of the immunization program, once it is available in the country.

The government has allotted PHP10 billion for the testing and procurement of the Covid-19 vaccine, he said.

“The ADB [Asian Development Bank] and World Bank assured us that they will also help us for pooled or selfsufficiency financing,” Galvez added.

The government is currently negotiating with potential suppliers,

Galvez said: “We have good diplomatic relations with China, Russia, US, Japan, South Korea, UK, Singapore, and Israel.”

“Ngayon gumagawa tayo ng (We are currently entering into various) bilateral, tripartite, and multilateral engagements so that we can increase our capacity and our access to at least 25-30 million of our population will be vaccinated each year,” Galvez said. (PNA) November 14-20, 2020 |

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