Caraga InFocus – October 15-21, 2022

DTI AGUSAN NORTE DISPOSES SUBSTANDARD PRODUCTS

By Nora C. Lanuza

Fifty-five (55) units of substandard products amounting to P30,816 were destroyed by the Department of Trade and Industry Agusan del Norte (DTI-ADN) on Friday, October 7, 2022. To ensure transparency, the activity was witnessed by the representatives from the Commission on Audit, local governments and media personalities at Barangay Doongan covered court, this city.

The products, according to DTI ADN provincial director Lorejane D. Sacote were identified as uncertified products due to absence of required markings set by the Bureau of Philippines Standards (BPS). The products either did not have the Philippine Standards (PS) mark for the locally manufactured items or an Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) sticker for the

imported products, Sacote said.

“The items were seized during the conducted enforcement activities of the agency, particularly on the compliance to the Product Standards Law among business establishments selling and/or offering for sale products covered by mandatory certification in Butuan City and the province of Agusan del

Norte”, Sacote said.

Products have questionable integrity and not safe for human use, hazardous to health and safety, she added.

Among the uncertified products seized and destroyed were induction rice cookers, rice cookers, electric

food mixers, electric kettles, LED energysaving light series, and mono block chairs.

Director Sacote strongly reminded the business establishment owners and consumers to be vigilant and always check the required and necessary markings to ensure safety.

“The DTI ADN advocates responsible consumerism and expresses its firm determination to run after violating firms and nonconforming products to ensure that all items in the market are considered safe and of high quality,” Sacote added. (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte)

News Briefs

Congratulations to the Local Government Unit of Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte for being recognized as Top 8 Most Improved Component City in the Philippines during the 10th Cities and Municipalities Competitive Summit spearheaded by the Department of Trade and Industry.

xx

The Department of Education (DEPED) has issued Deped Order No. 044, series of 2022 with subject, Amendment to DEPED Order No. 034 entitled, School Calendar and Activities for the School Year 2022-2023).

DO No. 044 continues to allow the private schools in the implementation of the following learning modalities, namely, 5 days of in-person classes, blended learning modality and full distance learning, amending Item No. 16 of DO No. 034.

The Department of Health (DOH) Caraga leads Regional Vaccination Operations Center (RVOC) and Response Cluster Meeting with representatives from various government agencies and local government units in the region. The RVOC members discussed the COVID-19 situationer; vaccination accomplishments; and other concerns in the provinces.

The National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) Online Registration Information System (NORIS) is open for registration until November 2, 2022 using the link napolcomnoris.org for the conduct of the NAPOLCOM Examinations on December 3, 2022 for the PNP Entrance Examination and December 4, 2022 for the PNP Promotional Examination.

REGIONAL NEWS

DOH TO CONDUCT MENTAL HEALTH FAIR

In time for Mental Health Awareness Month the Department of Health (DOH) Caraga will conduct a Mental Health Fair 2022 on October 25, 2022, at the Event Center, SM City Butuan.

The activity aims to demonstrate that optimal mental well-being can be achieved through the actions of everyone with the support of various sectors.

In this year’s Mental Health Awareness Month dubbed as, “Mental Health & Wellbeing for All: Promoting Mental Health in Physical and Virtual Spaces,” the Department of Health (DOH) also reminds us that

being healthy is more than just having good physical health but it also means a good mental health and wellness.

In addition, the Department of Health’s Health is Life campaign covers mental health, psychosocial, and mental well-being its focal areas and is preparing to step up its interventions to further improve health literacy among Filipinos, lobby for health public policies, and advocate for healthsupporting environments.

A Mental Health Month Celebration launching of the Lusog Isip App with demonstration will also be conducted during the

Mental Health Fair 2022. Lusog Isip App is an app for mental health and selfcare culturally-adapted for the Philippines in response to the growing need for mental healthcare during the COVID-19 pandemic.

To make spaces for all and if you know someone who is experiencing mental health issues you can call the 24/7 NCMH Crisis Hotline: 1800-1888-1553 Unlimited calls nationwide with onetime fee of Php7.50 SMART / SUN / TNT: 0908639-2672 GLOBE / TM: 0966-351-4518 ; 0917-899-8727 (MFCeledeña/ DOHCaraga/PIACaraga)

Feature:

VEGETABLE GARDEN FLOATS IN AGUSAN MARSH

Leave no one behind.

This is the motivating factor of the Department of Agriculture (DA) Caraga to extend its services even to the hard-to-reach areas making agriculture interventions accessible to the people.

On October 13, 2022, a plant nursery for a floating garden was successfully installed in a wetland area in Barangay Sabang Gibong, Talacogon, Agusan del Sur, an area commonly known as Agusan Marsh.

The intervention was made after the evaluation of the said area was identified as a possible site for vegetable production that could give additional livelihood for the marshland community.

Materials for the garden were given to the Indigenous People (IP) including net, bamboo, ropes, seeds, seedling trays, plastic mulch, and sprinklers by the joint support of the DARegional Agricultural Engineering Division

(RAED), High-Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP), Organic Agriculture (OA), Agusan del Sur Provincial Local Government Unit (PLGU), and Talacogon Municipal Agriculture Office (MAO).

DA-Caraga technical experts conducted an orientation for the residents to introduce innovations in crops and livestock production in the area and train them on how to make a floating garden.

The DA-Caraga allocated P175,000 pesos for the 50 units of the floating garden to be established in the area using different methods

of floaters.

Initially, 10 units were already planted with bell pepper and pechay.

The DA team will revisit for more assistance and guidance to the farmers until the completion of the project; from planting, harvesting, and to marketing. The agency will ensure a sustainable livelihood for them despite the challenge of climate change since they have been experiencing floods for months, with no permanent agricultural land suitable for cultivation. This intervention is also part of the agency’s

contribution to the conservation efforts of the area’s biodiversity. Agusan Marsh is one of the most ecologically significant wetlands in the Philippines, a protected area in Agusan del Sur declared during the time of former President Fidel V. Ramos.

Within its lakes, several floating communities can be found. During the wet season, it is a large single swamp while in dry season, it turns into a series of interconnected rivers and isolated swamps and lakes with the Agusan River flowing through the center.

(Lovely Joy L. Saludez/ DA-Caraga)

PIA CARAGA GETS 5-STAR RATING COMPLIANCE DURING DOE’S SPOT CHECK ENERGY AUDIT

The Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga regional office got a 5-star rating compliance during the conduct of Spot Check for the Mandatory Implementation of Government Energy Management Program (GEMP) on Tuesday, October 18. 2022 by the Department of Energy (DOE) personnel from Davao City.

The DOE Energy Audit Team composed of Engr. Virgilio Arzadon, Senior Science Research Specialist; Engr. Mary Natalie Acebu, Science Research Specialist I; and John Earl Montilla, Project Development Officer I, thoroughly checked/ assessed the regular measures of the agency on saving fuel and electricity, and discussed with PIA personnel on how to further improve and reduce energy consumption.

Also, some best practices were shared by the PIACaraga management in maintaining its efforts on energy efficiency and optimization.

Regional Director Venus Garcia thanked the DOE audit team for taking time to visit the regional office in Butuan City, and for

their guidance that can significantly help in reducing the operating costs of the office while providing operational benefits.

She also encouraged the PIA personnel including the Information Center (InfoCen) Managers of the different provinces in Caraga to maintain its effective and efficient fuel and electric measures and monitoring.

Meanwhile, DOE Audit team leader, Engr. Arzadon congratulated the PIA Caraga team for getting a high rating compliance, and encouraged them to continue its best practices

on energy conservation. He added that the result of the spot check is also expected to inspire other government offices and for them to replicate the ideal energysaving measures applied.

The Department of Energy (DOE) is mandated by Republic Act 7638 (Department of Energy Act of 1992) to prepare, integrate, coordinate, supervise and control all plans, programs, projects and activities of the Government relative to energy exploration, development, utilization, distribution and conservation.

Ni Jennifer P. Gaitano

PROVINCIAL NEWS

ADN POULTRY FARM NOW GAHP CERTIFIED

Food safety, quality, and security are inextricably linked.

This is the driving force for the Department of Agriculture to set principles of good practices to ensure that the farming practices of every establishment provide greater confidence in consumers’ expectation that the final products are safe and fit for human consumption as well as ensure animal health and welfare.

In the Caraga region, BryDomz Poultry Farm OPC in Carmen, Agusan del Norte is now certified as compliant with the Philippine National Standards: Good Animal Husbandry Practices (GAHP) after passing the DA’s evaluation.

The DA-Caraga Regulatory Division Chief, Johnny M. Concon, together with Supervising Agriculturist Marie Jocelyn C. Santiago, DVM, handed over the GAHP Certificate to Noelyn S. Dominguez and Bryan M. Dominguez, owners of BryDomz Poultry Farm

OPC, on October 17 in Butuan City. Bryan Domiguez said his business operation started in 2020 when he partnered with San Miguel Foods Inc. for broiler contract growing.

“Once you partner with a well-known brand, you can get a steady buyer of your products. As we develop business

been assisting livestock and poultry raisers who are interested in applying for the free certification. In the region, two farms are now GAHP-certified. This includes the VPO Poultry Layer Farm in Rosario, Agusan del Sur.

The DA encourages the livestock and poultry farmers and agripreneurs in the Caraga region to take the next step

partnerships, we learned to understand the significance of GAHP Certification for both the present and future undertakings in order to continually supply safe and high-quality products to an increasingly demanding market,” he said.

The Regional GAHP Team headed by the DA’s Regulatory Division has

and apply for GAHP Certification. As part of its commitment to helping the industry develop sustainable food safety systems.

Interested applicants may head to the nearest DA Regional Office to hand in their application and documentary requirements. (Rhea C. Abao, DA-Caraga RAFIS/ PIA Agusan del Norte)

3 CTGS WHO MISSED THEIR FAMILY SURRENDERED IN AGNOR

Bobong Asay alias Jimmy, 23 years old, member of RSDG, NEMRC and Cristian Maca alias Dan,19 years old, member of SYP21C, GF21, NEMRC,

According to them, they wanted to go home to their families because they have been missing them so much. Aside from hunger and extreme fatigue, they really want to be free from the organization and to get proper sleep without thinking about their security.

LtCol Gargar emphasized his call to the remaining members of the communitst terrorist group (CTG) to go back to the folds of the government because government agencies are ready to help them in starting a peaceful life.

“To those who remain to believe in useless and futile armed struggle please go back to the folds of the law, it is not too late to have a new and peaceful life. The gate of 29th Infantry Battalion is wide open in accepting those who want to surrender.

Three members of Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) who desired to have a peaceful life voluntarily laid down their arms to the 29th Infantry Battalion at Headquarters 29IB, Purok 4, Brgy Del Pilar, Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte on Sunday, October 16, 2022.

The three CTG personalities were identified as Joem Hurod alias Jack, 18 years old and a member of Sandatahang Yunit Pampropaganda 16C1 (SYP16C1), Guerilla Front 16 (GF16), Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC).

Our government is in full support and has implemented the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program to support you in starting anew.” LtCol. Gargar said in a statement. (1Lt Jade Bryce Buñe, CMO Officer, 29IB PA/ PIA Agusan del Norte)

TWO AGUSAN NORTE TOWNS ISSUE EO SUPPORTING BUY LOCAL PRODUCTS, SERVICES

By Nora C. Lanuza

With the aim of providing assistance and support to the Philippine micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) especially those who have been severely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of Trade and Industry Agusan del Norte (DTI ADN) through its Negosyo Centers (NCs) in Butuan City and in the province of Agusan del Norte has continuously

campaigned and appealed to the local government units (LGUs) for the issuance of the Buy Local Executive Order in their respective LGUs.

According to DTI ADN provincial director Lorejane D. Sacote, the campaign made by the NCs resulted to the province of Agusan del Norte’s first two municipalities’ issuance of an Executive Orders

(EO).

“The ‘Buy Local, Go Lokal’ campaign is a national media campaign that aims to help Philippine micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to assist MSMEs to create opportunities for their recovery and growth through the issuance of such executive order,” Sacote said.

Mayor Ramon M. Calo

of the municipality of Carmen signed EO No. 14, series of 2022 on October 12, and Mayor Joselito T. Roble of the municipality of Buenavista also signed EO No. 93, series of 2022 on September 5 supporting the Buy Local products and services campaign. As stated in their EOs, the municipalities of Carmen and Buenavista have an approximately 86 and 1,431 MSMEs, respectively. These MSMEs are into manufacturing/ processing, that makes up atleast 10.4 percent and 10.55% of the total number of registered businesses in the

municipalities.

Also, the buy local EOs prescribe at least 10% of the total procurement value of goods and services supplied to the LGUs, national government agencies (NGAs), and other agencies holding offices in the locality must be solely devoted to locallyproduced goodds and services.

“The ‘Buy Local, Go Local’ revolves around the powerful message for our countrymen to support Philippine MSMEs by shifting buying patterns towards the consumption and purchase of Philippine

fresh produce and manufactured goods, the campaign will help stimulate and boost domestic-level trade, while encouraging Filipino consumers to patronize Philippineowned and operated facilities and services,” Sacote added.

Because of the importance of the campaign, Sacote encourages the masses to purchase local brands and support local establishments to boost MSMEs’ growth and provide more job opportunities in the community. (Photo by DTI ADN/NCLM/PIAAgusan del Norte)

LIBRENG LIGATION UG VASECTOMY GIPAHIGAYON SA POPCOM, DKT

Ubay-ubay nga kababayenhan nga naserbisyohan libre atol sa gipahigayon nga Bilateral Tubal Ligation (BTL) ug Non-Scalpel Vasectomy (NSV) service delivery sa Province of Dinagat Islands, Surigao City ug Surigao del Norte, Agusan del Sur, ug Agusan del Norte kaniadtong Oktubre 1114, 2022.

Ang POPCOM Family Planning Itinerant

Team kauban ang DKT Philippines natunolan og libre nga BTL ang 38

ka mga babae sa Albor District Hospital, Libjo, PDI kaniadtong Oktubre 11, 2022, 14 ka BTL ug 1 NSV na kliyente sa Surigao City ug Surigao del Norte sa Caraga Regional Hospital kaniadtong Oktubre 12, 2022, ug 11 ka BTL sa La Paz, ADS sa La Paz Municipal Hospital kaniadtong Oktubre 14, 2022.

Dugang pa, 30 ka mga babaye sa Las Nieves ug Carmen, Agusan del Norte ang naserbisyohan sa libreng Progestin Sub-dermal Implant

kaniadtong Oktubre 11 ug 12, 2022.

Isip prinsipyo sa debulosyon ug aron mapalambo ang lokal nga awtonomiya, ang POPCOM Caraga Family Wellness Clinic nagadugang sa mga serbisyo nga gikinahanglan nga giassign sa mga lokal nga panggamhanan apan dili nila mahatag, o kun naa, dili insakto para makab-ot ang panginahanglanon sa mga lumulupyo. (Dian Joy L. Martinez, POPCOM Caraga/PIA Caraga)

POPCOM EXTENDS FP SERVICES TO COMMUNITIES

A total of 30 married women received free family planning service, known as Progestin Subdermal Implant (PSI) from POPCOM Caraga Family Wellness Clinic in the first round.

POPCOM Caraga Family Wellness Clinic successfully served 17 clients from barangay Maningalao, Las Nieves on October 11, while 13 clients from Carmen on October 12, 2022.

Prior to the service provision, the clients also attended a Responsible Parenthood and Family Planning or RPFP class conducted by Jocel Garrido, POPCOM Caraga Program Coordinator for Agusan del Norte.

POPCOM Caraga disclosed that aside from the free PSI insertion, clients were also given hygiene kits.

The regional office

further revealed that the remaining schedules for the POPCOM Caraga Family Wellness Clinic PSI outreach in Agusan del Norte will be conducted in the municipalities of Jabonga on October 18, Kitcharao on October 20, RTR on October 25, and Magallanes on October 26.

For more information regarding modern family planning, individuals and married couples may

contact the POPCOM Caraga Helplines through 0995-155-0746 for Globe and 0951-0419159 Smart. Clients may also visit the POPOCM Caraga Family Wellness Clinic located at Ground Floor VCDU Bldg. Pareja Subd., Butuan City for free consultation and service delivery from Mondays to Fridays. (Gabrielle Paolo m. Mordeno, POPCOM Caraga/PIA Agusan del Norte)

POPCOM GIPALIG-ON SA PMOC SA SIARGAO

Ang Commission on Population and Development (POPCOM) – Caraga nagpahigayon ug PreMarriage Orientation and Counselling (PMOC) Training para sa mga kawani sa Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) ug Municipal Population Development Officers (MPDOs) sa Siargao Islands adtung Oktubre 19-21, 2022 sa Sta. Monica, Surigao del Norte.

Basi sa Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC) No. 1 Series of 2018 sa Revised PMOC Program Implementing Guidelines sa 2018, ang POPCOM naghatag og Pre-Marriage Orientation

(PMO) Training kabahin sa PMOC Manual Module I ug mag isyu og Certificate of Completion sa tanan miyembro sa PMOC nga moagi sa maong training. Ang certipiko usa sa mga rekisitos sa accreditation para sa Pre-Marriage counsellors.

Ang Article 16 sa Family Code nagmandatu sa gikinahanglan na counselling session sa tanan nga buot magminyo nga nagedad 18-25 isip dugang sa ilang pagtambong PMO.

Si Ms. Nashville B. Pasaylo, planning officer, ug si Mr. Janus Athony H. Raganas, project evaluation officer sa POPCOM Caraga,

ang nihatag sa technical assistance sa PMOC Training (Module I). Kauban usab nila ang PMOC counsellor gikan sa probinsiya sa Surigao del Norte ug PMOC focal gikan sa Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office (FO) Caraga.

Dugang pa niini, ang duha ka kawani sa POPCOM Caraga Regional office nagpahigayon usab og pagmonitor sa PMOC teams ug mag-apodapod og PMOC Modules sa tanan munisipyo sa Siargao Islands. (Dian Joy L. Martines, POPCOMCaraga/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

KANHI REBELDE GIBANSAY ALANG SA NAPILI NILANG PANGINABUHIAN

Mushroom Production and Management, Vegetable Production and Management, Tilapia Production and Fish Pond Management ug ang Organic Farming and Concoction Formulation ug Demo.

Ang maong training, subay sa mga pipila ka napili sa mga kanhi rebelde nga mga panginabuhian unya panahon sa pagbalik mismo nila sa komunidad. Kabahin usab kini sa inisyatiba sa probinsyal nga panggamhanan nga mga preparasyon sa ilang fully integration.

Mokabat sa 35 ka mga kanhi rebelde sa probinsya sa Agusan del Norte ang nahuman na sa duha ka adlaw nga pagbansay mahitungod sa Integrated Farming and Organic Agriculture niadtong Oktubre 17-18 sa Halfway House and Training Center, Bancasi, Butuan City.

Gipangunahan kini sa buhatan sa Provincial Agriculture kaabag ang

buhatan sa Provincial Social Welfare and Development ubos sa programa nga Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) sa probinsyal nga panggamhanan.

Ang maong kanhi rebelde gitudloan mahitungod sa Livestock Production and Management, Corn Production and Management,

Mahinumduman bag-o pa lamang natagaan ang nasangpit nga mga kanhi rebelde og pinansyal nga tabang nga Php20,000 isip seed capital fund sa ilang mapili nga negosyo o panginabuhian. (Karen Decamotan/hulagway kuha sa personahe sa PAO, LGU Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)

62 KANHI REBELDE SA AGUSAN NORTE, NAKADAWAT UG PINANSYAL NA TABANG

for Mindanao Affairs Arnel B. Garcia, Assistant Secretary for Statutory Programs Elaine F. Fallarcuna, ug FO Caraga Regional Director Mari-Flor A. Dollaga ang nanguna sa maong distribusyon ngadto sa mga former rebels.

“Kung mo ingon ta nga muuban ta sa goberno, muuban gyud ta”

Kini ang gi-ambit na hangyo ni Provincial Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante ngadto sa 62 kanhi rebelde sa Agusan del Norte nga nakadawat og pinansyal assistance kagahapon, Oktubre 13 ubos sa Livelihood Settlement Grant (LSG) gikan sa Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) –Caraga.

Sumala pa ni Gob. Angel Amante, dili perpekto ang goberno apan nag-pursige ang tanan buhatan nga mahatag ang angayang serbisyo alang sa tanan. Apan anaa gihapon sa pagpaningkamot sa tao nga mo arang-arang ang

kinabuhi sa matag usa.

“Kita karon nga naa nata sa goberno, maningkamot pud ta” matud pa ni Gob. Amante.

“Dili gyud solution nga makigpag-away ta. Dili gyud solution nga ang inyong kinabuhi, inyong i-sugal” pasabot sa gobernador.

Ang 62 ka mga kanhi rebelde nakadawat og Php20,000 matag usa isip suporta nga seed capital fund sa ilang napili nga panginabuhian o livelihood project.

Mismo si DSWD Undersecretary for Operations Group Jerico Francis L. Javier uban nila Provincial Governor Angel Amante, Assistant Secretary

Isip tubag, mi komiter ang usa sa mga benepisyaryo uban sa iyang mga kauban sa ilang kinasing-kasing nga pag-uban sa goberno. Lambigit niini, gihikayat usab nya iyang mga kauban nga maningkamot usab nga mapalambo ang ilang nadawatan nga capital.

“Manghinaot ko nga i-kinasing-kasing pud nato ang tabang sa gobyerno. Naghatag sa ato ang gobyerno og kantidad nga Php20,000 para sa atong panginabuhian. Dapat maningkamot ta unsaon paglago ani nga kantidad” sumala pa sa usa ka benepisyaryo.

Ang nasangpit nga programa, kabahin sa hiniusang lihuk sa tanang ahensya ug LGUs sa pang-goberno sa pagimplementar sa Executive Order No. 70 series of 2018. (Karen Decamotan, hulagway kuha ni Reuben Te, LGU Agusan del Norte/ PIA Agusan del Norte)

PROYEKTONG “COUNTRY WOOD” ISIP FLAGSHIP PROJECT SA AGUSAN NORTE, PADAYONG GIHISGUTAN SA PROBINSYA, MGA AHENSYA UG BUHATAN NI KONGRESISTA CORVERA

Laing panaghisgut ang gipahiluna sa buhatan ni Kongresista Dale B. Corvera karon, Oktubre 13, kalabot “Country Wood” isip usa sa mga convergence economic development projects aron moangat ang kahimtang sa pagpuyo sa mga residente sa distrito.

Kauban na sa panaghisgut ang mga buhatan sa Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department

of Science and Technology (DOST) ug sa Provincial Planning and Development Office (PPDO).

Una na nga nakatambong sa mga panaghisgut ang Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Technical Education and Development Authority (TESDA) ug ang Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

Nakita nga daku kaayo ang potensyal

sa industriya sa kahoy nga makamugna og daghang trabaho ug dakung bahandi nga mahimong tinubdan sa pagangat sa kita sa mga tawo aron mokunhod ang kapobrehon sa probinsya.

Kab-oton kini pinaagi sa pagpursige sa proyektong “Country Wood”, usa sa mga proyekto ubos sa programang Process! Process! Processs! ug pagpananum sa gamitong hilaw nga materyales sa 100,000 ektaryas sa productive forest zone ubos sa

programang Plant! Plant! Plant!, tanan ubos sa kampanyang Agusan Up!

Gisugdan ni Kongresista Corvera ang kampanya sa Agusan Up! sa gobernador pa siya ug padayong niya kining gipahiluna katambayayong ang administrasyon ni Gob. Angel Amante-Matba.

Sa panaghisgut karon, gisuportahan sa tanan ang pagpursige sa proyekto. Giako sa DENR ang pahimo sa inbentaryo sa mga nagbarug nga kahoy karon, ang mga luna nga tamnanan pa ingon man. Giako usab sa DTI ang pagtuon sa merkado sa nauyonan

ug makita pang mga value-adding products ug sa DOST, ang pagtuon sa haum nga teknolohiya ug makinarya.

Daan na nga mikometer ang TESDA nga maoy mopahiluna sa gikinahanglang pagbansay, ug ang DOLE, alang sa mga trabaho sa tree farmers nga pwedeng suooortahan ubos sa cash-for-work progran niini.

Apan pipila ka sugyot ang milutaw apil na ang gipadangat ni Regional Director Noel Ajoc sa DOST nga himoon sa mosunod nga mga adlaw pipila pa ka pagduki-duki

kalabot sa pagtanum ug value adding products

aron maseguro nga magmalampuson kini.

Naay usab nakita nga angay ipahaum nga mga nasudnong polisiya ug nakita nga matubag kini sa plano ni Kongresista Corvera nga mopasaka og “Timber Corridor Development Bill”

Padayon ang project development ug corporate set-up development sa maong proyekto sa koordinasyon sa PPDO ug sa buhatan ni Kongresista Corvera. (hulagway ni Nibika Calixtro ug John Henry Balansag, LGU Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)

1502nd RRIBn installs a new Commander in “A” Coy

The Alpha Company of 1502nd Ready Reserve Infantry Battalion (RRIBn) has installed a newlydesignated Acting Company Commander, Captain Henry O. Tiu II, in a recently concluded activity of the Joint Turn-over of Company Commander Ceremony and Closing Ceremony of Basic Life Support (BLS) Training held on

October 16, 2022, at Evacuation Center Purok

11 Poblacion Esperanza this province.

Captain Tiu is a Medical Doctor who was commissioned last February 2022 under the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Circular Number 4 and a member of Technical Services

Reserve Units-Armed Forces of the Philippines Reserve Command (AFPRESCOM).

Meanwhile, a total of 22 participants successfully completed the course, comprising with 6 DepEd Teachers and 16 Enlisted Reservists of the said company. (2Lt Adones L. Apilada, Executive Officer, 1502 CDC)

OPAG MIPAHIGAYON OG PAGBANSAY SA IMPLEMENTASYON SA GULAYAN SA KAMPO SA SURSUR

Giimplementar sa Probinsya sa Surigao del Sur pinaagi sa buhatan sa Office of the Provincial Agriculturist kon OPAg ang pinakaunang pagbansay isip preparasyon sa implementasyon sa “Gulayan sa Kampo” didto sa 36th Infantry Battalion, Barangay Puyat, lungsod sa Carmen ning probiniysa dili pa lang dugay.

Sumala pa sa taho, ang maong programa gipondohan sa Department of Agriculture kon DACaraga, diin gitudluan ang mga sundalo sa sulod sa ilang kampo sa insaktong pamaagi og proseso sa pagpananum sa mga gulay kon utanon sama sa talong, okra, ampalaya, kamatis, kalabasa og uban pa.

Gibana-bana anaa sa 20 ka sundalo ang misalmot sa ilang kaugalingon og naminaw sa saktong impormasyon aron

makakat-on sa mga pamaagi og proseso sa pagpananom nga gipaambit sa mga eksperto gikan sa buhatan sa OPAG-SDS nga gipangunahan ni Provincial Agriculturist Marcos Quico.

Gibutyag ni Quico nga dako og tabang ang maong proyektong gipahigayon sa mga kasundaluhan tungod kay naa na sa sulod sa maong kampo ang tinubdan sa maong mga pagkaon nga gulay, og mamahimong maoy tinubdan sa mga binhe sa mga silingan nga kumunidad niini.

Nahibaloan, nga ang maong implementasyon sa pagbansay og implementasyon sa nahisgutang proyekto ipahigayon usab sa mga nagkadaiyang kampo sa kasundaluhan og kapulisan sulod sa probinsya sa mga musunod nga gikatakdang petsa:

1. Oct 17- PNP Provincial Office Tandag City

2. Oct 18- Marauder 75th IB @ Tina, San Miguel

3. Oct 19- Arrowhead

3rd SF Batallion @ Saint Cristine, Lianga

4. Oct 21- Agila 67th IB @ San Roque, Bislig City. (OPAg/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

RPTAS TRAINING TO 17 LGUS IN SURSUR

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

The Provincial Government of Surigao del Sur through the Provincial Assessor Office (PAssO) and the Systems and Plan Integrator and Development Corporation (SPIDC), successfully conducted the “Orientation and Hands-on Training on the use of Real Property Tax Administration System (RPTAS)” held at the SCI Conference Room, SCI Building, in Tandag City on October 5 to 18, 2022.

The activity was joined by the 17 LGUs clustered into four groups: Batch 1 (Barobo, Bayabas, Cantilan, Carrascal and Cortes) Batch 2 (Lanuza, Madrid, San Miguel and Tago) Batch 3 (Cagwait, Carmen, Marihatag and San Agustin), and Batch 4 (Hinatuan, Lianga, Lingig and Tagbina). (PGO-SDS).

Prior to the activity, the personnel of the Provincial Government of Surigao del SurInformation Technology (IT) Division reportedly

visited the 17 Municipal Assessment Offices of the province for the installation of the RPTAS to the computers/ laptops being used by the participants.

The Real Property Tax Administration System as a tool provides a comprehensive approach to maintaining a large volume of property records and offers fast and accurate assessment service on all real property taxpayers for tax payment purposes.

It is also designed to be flexible enough to be adopted by any local government unit’s real property assessment system.

The RPTAS accordingly has been updated to adopt the prescribed assessment forms and guidelines following LAR 1-04 (The Manual on Real Property Appraisal and Assessment Operations). (Photo credit to: PGOSDS/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

PBBM SETS AGRI PROGRAMS TO ADDRESS FOOD SECURITY IN PSAC MEETING

Through the DOST program, farmers and fishermen will be able to access real-time and updated information on farm conditions, including weather outlook, drought and flooding forecasting, disease detection and infestation.

To improve the income of farmers, Marcos ordered the acceleration of replanting of coconut trees and distribution of seedings as well as intercropping for better land use.

President Ferdinand R.

Marcos on Friday met with the agriculture cluster of the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) to discuss his administration’s agriculture priorities, specifically measures to ensure food security in the country.

During the meeting in Malacañang, Marcos received recommendations from the PSAC on digital farming methods and supply chain improvement strategies that will boost the government’s food security program.

The PSAC also proposed the review of the policies and structure of the National Food Authority (NFA) to enable the agency to operate as a logistics hub and reduce losses for the government.

Marcos also made clear his plan for the institutionalization of the Department of Science and Technology’s digital platform Sarai that will provide agricultural stakeholders with site-specific crop advisories based on data gathered from Diwate micro-satellite.

Marcos also issued directives to control the African Swine Fever, particularly the strict implementation of all measures put in place to control ASF, including the ban on all trucks with pig and pork products from outside Panay region for 60 days.

The chief executive also told the Department of Agriculture to review the Act for Salt Iodization Nationwide (ASIN) law to revive salt farming as an additional livelihood for the fisherfolk to augment their income.

The ASIN Law, or the Republic Act 8172, is the requirement of the addition of iodine to salt intended for animal and human consumption in a bid to eradicate micronutrient malnutrition in the country.

‘WE’LL MAKE YOU THRIVE IN PH,’ PBBM ASSURES BUSINESSES

President Ferdinand R. Marcos made a commitment to the business community Thursday to foster a sound environment where it can flourish, recognizing its role as a driver of economic growth as the country emerges from the setbacks posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We recognize the fact that our businesses cannot thrive alone. Thus, it is my commitment to foster a sound environment where businesses can flourish and continue to be a driver of our economic growth,” Marcos told the 48th Philippine Business Conference and Exposition (PBC&E) of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) at the Manila Hotel.

“I reiterate my vision of improving our business climate and elevating the status of the Philippines as a top investment destination through various endeavors,” Marcos said.

To realize its goals, the President said the government will continue to harmonize efforts of all investment promotion agencies, government agencies, and local

government units (LGUs) to effect greater synergies.

The administration, he said, will also continue to ease doing business in the country by enhancing digital infrastructure aimed at streamlining the application processes for business permits, licenses, and other requirements.

Adequate power supply, infra push

In addition, the chief executive committed to developing the country’s renewable energy sector to ensure adequate power supply and stabilize electricity costs.

This will be done by revising the Renewable Energy Law’s Implementing Rules and Regulations to secure energy supply, as well as attract foreign investments for renewable energy development.

At the same time, the government will also strongly push infrastructure development with special emphasis on Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) in key projects.

The President reported that as of August this year, the government recorded a

total of 74 PPP projects in the pipeline, with a combined estimated cost of P2.25 trillion.

“But we must do more because we need more. I thus invite all of you to take part in the great enterprise of building our nation,” Marcos said.

Marcos stressed that public and private sectors must work together in coming up with more infrastructure and energy projects as well as “more projects for agriculture, all that will empower and strengthen both our economy and our nation.” (PND)

PBBM: MORE COMMERCIAL FLIGHTS IN ORMOC TO BOOST E. VISAYAS DEV’T

President Ferdinand R. Marcos on Thursday said opening the Ormoc Airport to commercial flights will usher in more development in the city and the Eastern Visayas region.

Marcos made the remark during his inspection of the Ormoc Airport during his visit to the city on Tuesday to celebrate its 75th Charter Day anniversary.

The Ormoc Airport is currently being upgraded with the construction of the

landing area and taxiway, and the expansion of its Apron.

The P329M project, which is expected to be completed in March 2023, would enable the airport to accept bigger commercial aircraft.

In his visit, Marcos lauded the city government for its accomplishments in attaining food security and combatting climate change, which are in line with his national development agenda. (PND)

PBBM HAILS ORMOC CITY FOR PRO-PEOPLE DEVELOPMENT, CLIMATE CHANGE EFFORTS

President Ferdinand R. Marcos commended Thursday the city government of Ormoc for its accomplishments aimed at attaining food security, combatting climate change, as well as prioritizing education, programs that are in line with his national development agenda.

Speaking during Ormoc City’s 75th Charter Day Celebration, Marcos said ensuring quality education for the youth and freeing the people from hunger make their lives more comfortable, enabling the government to usher the country toward progress.

“Aside from these facets, it is likewise commendable that you give emphasis to initiatives that also address your vulnerability to natural hazards and climate change,” he said, citing the implementation of city’s Local Climate Change Action Plan 2016-2025.

The President also praised the city government for focusing on developing and utilizing renewable energy, which, he said, could help the country and the world minimize the negative impacts of fossil fuel use.

“I look forward to these

advancements that will yield to bounties beneficial to the environment, our economy, and our people,” he noted.

At the same time, Marcos pointed to the city’s important interventions for the development of families, as it partners with the Commission on Population and Development to implement the Social Protection Program for Adolescent Mothers and their Children.

Marcos reiterated the administration’s commitment to supporting Ormoc City’s programs and projects for the betterment of its local population and the rest of the country.

And as the national

government aggressively carries out its COVID-19 booster campaign, Marcos called on the people of Ormoc City to actively participate in the PinasLakas vaccination program.

The city’s booster uptake remains low at only 33 percent, Marcos said, underscoring the need to increase the booster rate to at least 50 percent to maintain the country’s wall of immunity against the coronavirus.

“We need to prioritize our health so that with renewed vigor and strength, we can act unrestrained in our efforts to bring forth a better, brighter, and more united Philippines for everyone,” Marcos said. (PND)

PBBM ON LEYTE LANDINGS ANNIVERSARY:

PH WILL CONTINUE TO BE PEACE-MAKER

open their hearts and minds to listen and talk and cooperate for the welfare of all.

Shared values, ideals Addressing the global community, Marcos urged its members to continue moving forward by building a future where relationships are defined not by circumstances or differences.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos on Thursday said his government would continue working for more enhanced diplomatic ties with its global partners and advocate peace-building initiatives domestically to attain stability and progress.

“As President, I assure you that this administration will always advocate for peace and unity. Domestically, we will strengthen our peacebuilding efforts, especially in conflict-affected areas,” Marcos said in his address during the 78th Leyte Landing commemoration in Palo, Leyte.

“Externally, we will continue to pursue the enhancement of our relations with our neighbors towards ensuring security and addressing global issues such as

facilitating post-pandemic growth and addressing climate change,” he added. Marcos said his administration will continue supporting initiatives that will not only preserve the country’s historical and cultural sites but also deepen the Filipino people’s sense of national identity and inclusivity.

The President reminded the attendees of the tremendous human and economic cost of wars, highlighting that it is, therefore, vital to keep the peace and its role as an enabler of economic growth and development.

Marcos added that the Second World War had taught the world a lesson that nations can achieve great feats and avoid even greater sufferings if people

“Rather, let our relationships be defined by our shared values and ideals, which are stronger and more enduring,” he said.

The President also honored the courage and heroism demonstrated by Filipino war veterans during World War II, which he said, were instrumental in the peace and freedom that the nation enjoys today.

Expressing the country’s gratitude, the chief executive said: “I likewise assure that the Philippine Government shall continue to look after the welfare of our war veterans.”

“Although we can never truly repay the price they paid for their gifts of peace and freedom, we can honor their heroism and their memory by continuing the great work they began,” Marcos said. (PND)

Marcos to Pinoys: It’s time to return to pre-pandemic life

President Ferdinand R. Marcos on Sunday enjoined Filipinos to get back to their normal lives before the Covid-19 pandemic hit, stressing that it is crucial to show the world that the Philippines is slowly getting back on its feet.

“It is a good thing to remind people that the pandemic may have been difficult, the pandemic really put us through the wringer. But we are back,” Marcos said in a speech in Bacolod City during a luncheon just before he graced the culminating

activity of the 43rd MassKara Festival.

“The pandemic is fading away. We are learning to manage it and now it is time for us to all go back to work, to all go back to our normal lives, to remind ourselves of all the opportunities that were before us before the pandemic…It is time for us to go back to all of those endeavors that we were undertaking before Covid hit,” he added.

Marcos said the MassKara Festival signaled not just the opening of Bacolod City to tourists, but also the

entire country.

“It is time for us to go back and exercise once again, show once again the Filipino resilience, the Filipino resourcefulness, the Filipino industry, the Filipino talent, ipakita naman natin sa buong mundo dahil nagbubukas ang mundo, dahil nagbubukas ang Pilipinas, ito ngayon ang MassKara Festival ay isang pagdiriwang hindi lamang sa pagbubukas ng Bacolod kung hindi sa buong Pilipinas (let us show the world because the Philippines

is now open, this is the MassKara festival which is a celebration of the opening of Bacolod but of the entire Philippines),” he said.

Despite the festival being borne out of “a very sad period in the history of Bacolod”, the President said it also symbolizes Filipinos’ “reemergence from a crisis.”

“..That is what we celebrate today and that is what we see that people are feeling and that is the feeling that we want to continue to encourage within our people because that is what’s going to lead us to success,” he said.

Marcos also congratulated Bacolod City Mayor Albee Benitez and event organizers for a successful holding of the festival.

Founded in October 1980 by the late Bacolod City Mayor Jose “Digoy” Montalvo Jr., the MassKara Festival was first held following two major tragedies that befell Negrenses– the

collapse of sugar prices in the international market and the sinking of the Negros Navigation ship M/V Don Juan.

During the sugar crisis, artists thought of promoting mask-making as an alternative source of income for the locals. Montalvo likewise suggested holding a mask festival to lift the spirits of the locals after the maritime accident that killed his wife, two daughters, and hundreds of Bacolod residents. MassKara is derived

from the words “mass” meaning “many” and “kara” meaning “faces,” thus calling it the Festival of Many Faces.

This year’s festival will be the first face-to-face event after two years of being suspended due to the pandemic.

Before gracing the culminating activities of the MassKara Festival, Marcos attended the inauguration of The Upper East and the unveiling of the township marker in Bacolod City.

(PNA/ By Azer Parrocha)

RESOLVE 1.4M VAXCERTPH BACKLOG, DILG TELLS LGUS (File photo)

Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin C. Abalos Jr. on Thursday urged local government units (LGUs) to immediately address the 1.4 million backlog in the registration of vaccination records in the Vaccination Information Management System (VIMS) that is needed for the issuance of VaxCertPH.

VaxCertPH is the government’s official digital vaccination certificate program, which is based on the centralized data in the VIMS.

“This has long been an issue in our LGUs as we try to improve the inventory of Filipino citizens who have registered for VaxCertPH.

We implore our LGUs to work double time in addressing their backlogs in the VIMS,” Abalos said in a statement.

He noted that the VIMS has a total backlog of 1,460,582 vaccination records as of September 22 – a total of 334,317 of which were due to missing records; 308,386 were not recorded for lack of manpower; 243,300 were due to late submission; 122,897 had incomplete data; 109,806 had missing data fields; 94,575 had operational and procedural issues; and 75,831 had issues with Internet connections, among others.

“Tuloy tuloy po ang ating kampanya sa pagpapabakuna kaya

kailangang maitala na po ang vaccine records ng ating mga mamamayan upang hindi ito tumambak pa (Our vaccination program is a continuing campaign, that is why we need to register our people’s vaccine records to avoid backlogs),” Abalos said.

He underscored the importance for LGUs to ensure that the digital records of their vaccinated constituents are updated, especially because VaxCertPH is among the most widely recognized vaccination certificates globally, being accepted in 94 countries and territories.

VaxCertPH is among the few vaccination certificates

compliant with international standards, including the World Health Organization’s (WHO) guidelines on digital documentation of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) certificates, the Digital Infrastructure for Verifiable Open Credentialing, and European Union Digital Covid-19 Certificate standards.

Thus, VaxCertPH is accepted among the top trading, investment, tourism, and Filipino migrant destinations, and partner countries of the Philippines.

In an urgent memorandum issued earlier, Abalos reminded all local chief executives and LGU VaxCertPH focal persons that the records of all vaccinated individuals should be accurately uploaded to the VIMS on the same day, or within 24 hours of an individual’s inoculation.

LGUs are likewise directed to provide capacity building and technical support and coordinate other immediate concerns on the VaxCertPH project with their counterparts at the Department of Health and Department of Information and Communications Technology in the regions and assign human and financial resources for the encoding of line-list data,

the rectification of records, and setting up of VaxCertPH booths in strategic places in the LGUs.

Abalos also directed all concerned DILG officials and personnel to closely coordinate with their respective LGUs to address the concerns and provide the necessary support for the swift and efficient implementation of the program.

“Tulungan po natin ang ating mga LGUs na maaddress ang causes ng backlog para sa mabilis at maayos na implementasyon ng programang ito (We must assist our LGUs in addressing the backlog causes to facilitate the speedy and efficient implementation of this program),” he said.

Complaints vs. erring barangay officials

As this developed, Abalos urged the public to file their complaints against erring elective barangay officials before their respective local legislative councils that have jurisdiction over barangay-related cases under existing laws.

“While the DILG exercises general supervision over local governments as the alter ego of the President, the task of disciplining erring barangay officials is with the Sangguniang

Bayan or Sangguniang Panlungsod where the barangay belongs,” he said, citing Section 61 of the Local Government Code (Republic Act 7160).

Section 61 stipulates that a verified complaint against any elective barangay official shall be filed before the Sangguniang Panglungsod or Sangguniang Bayan concerned whose decision shall be final and executory.

“Sa halip na idulog niyo sa DILG ang inyong mga reklamo sa inyong mga kapitan o mga kagawad sa barangay, ilapit niyo ang mga ito sa inyong mga sanggunian para mas mabilis itong ma-aksyunan (Instead of lodging your complaints against your barangay officials with the DILG, raise your concerns with the provincial or municipal council for faster action),” he said.

“Ang inyong mga sanggunian ang may kapangyarihan na humawak sa mga reklamo ninyo laban sa mga opisyal ng inyong barangay. Bukas ang kanilang tanggapan sa sinumang may mga verified complaints (Your councils have the authority to address complaints against your barangay officials. Their offices are open to anyone who has) verified complaints.” (With a report from Priam Nepomuceno/ Christopher Lloyd Caliwan /PNA)

COVID-19 STILL INTERNATIONAL HEALTH EMERGENCY: WHO

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Wednesday said Covid-19 is still a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), the WHO’s highest alert level.

The announcement came although the number of weekly deaths is almost at its lowest level since the pandemic began.

The WHO’s International Health Regulations Emergency Committee said after its quarterly assessment meeting last week that despite a decline in severe cases of Covid-19, and the falling number of weekly deaths, deaths from Covid-19 nevertheless remain high compared with other respiratory viruses.

It also warned of Covid-19related complications and post-Covid-19 conditions, with the full impact of these still not completely understood.

The outbreak could also evolve during the upcoming winter season in the Northern Hemisphere, the committee said.

Meanwhile, the current gaps in global surveillance of Covid-19 have hindered early identification and

evaluation of the virus’ evolution.

With the virus expected to continue evolving, the committee said the genetic and antigenic characteristics of future variants cannot yet be reliably predicted.

Evolving variants may pose challenges to current vaccines and therapeutics, the committee warned.

“Given the above considerations, the committee concurred that continued coordination of the international response is necessary,” and considered that “the situation remains

dynamic and requires frequent reassessments, and that the termination of the PHEIC, when considered feasible, should be implemented as safely as possible.”

The committee recommended that there should be three key priorities in the future: strengthening surveillance and achieving vaccination targets for at risk-groups; continuing to increase access to affordable therapeutics; and strengthening pandemic preparedness planning, while continuing to protect the most at-risk groups. (Xinhua)

A man wearing a mask is seen near Westminster Bridge in London, Britain on Oct. 14, 2022. (Xinhua/Li Ying)

Regional Office

Jose Rosales Avenue, Butuan City piacaraga@gmail.com; pia_caraga@yahoo.com.ph (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