CONTENTS Caraga Infocus 7
19 - 25 October 2019
REGIONAL NEWS
Volume III, No. 62
PROVINCIAL NEWS
12 7 14 9 15 Pinoy pro surfer wins 17 25th Siargao International 19 20 Surfing Cup 22 23 25 SurSur hosts 3rd Caraga RTF-ELCAC meeting BSP patuloy sa pagsagawa ng Piso Caravan sa Caraga
PDL-senior citizens receive gifts from gov’t agencies DTI-Surigao Norte conducts ACT session SurSur guv initiates IP dialogue in Lianga town SurSur province stands firm in ‘Whole-of-Nation Approach to End Insurgency’ NPA surrenderers to receive E-CLIP benefits in Surigao Sur AgNor PPOC strengthens strategies to end communist armed conflict 120 youths from conflict-affected villages undergo leadership training Another AgNor town declares NPA persona non-grata Dinagat farmers receive land titles, farm machines
MINDANAO NEWS
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Mindanao IPs cut ties with Reds to promote peace, dev’t TF Bangon Marawi chief hails ‘faster’ clearing ops
NATIONAL NEWS
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PCOO underscores FOI as venue to shape public policies, laws Infra damage in Mindanao quake reaches P86-M: DPWH PRRD seeks biz sector help to end corruption
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News Briefs Updates on the non-DepEd operated schools in Surigao del Sur were discussed during today’s RTF-ELCAC meeting. In view of the complicated issues of TRIFPSS and ALCADEV, Agusan del Norte governor Dale Corvera has suggested for the creation of the Technical Working Group to discuss the issues and present solutions & plans.
The Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga Regional Office was recognized as TESDA Caraga’s Social Marketing & Advocacy Campaign (SMAC)Government Media Partner while the PIA-Surigao del Sur Information Center was recognized as the Provincial Media Partner during the 2019 Gabi ng Parangal held at the Philippine Gateway Hotel in Surigao City.
The PopCom-Caraga is set to launch the National Program on Population and Family Planning (NPPFP) through the KATROPA or KAlalakihang Tumutugon sa Responsibilidad at Obligasyon sa PAmilya on Nov. 8, 2019 at Almont Hotel’s Inland Resort, Butuan City. Sec. Martin Andanar of PCOO said that the Radyo Pilipinas in Butuan City is the first station among the 10 targeted state radio stations in the country to be installed with the newly purchased equipment as part of the “Radio Rehab” program of the Philippine government.
Cover Story Pinoy pro surfer wins 2 International Surfing C
S
URIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte - Filipino professional surfer J championship title during the 25th Siargao International Surfi Cloud 9 in Siargao Island.
Tokong, a 23 year-old and locally Island as one of the top ten best surf known as “Marama,� defeated all other sites in the world and the surfing capital competing surfers from 13 countries of the Philippines. and received a prize of US$5,000. In his messgae as the guest of honor Apart from the impressive skill of in the awarding ceremony, Presidential Filipinos in surfing, the annual sporting Communications Operations Office event has once again proved Siargao Secretary Martin Andanar cited surfing
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October 19-25, 2019
25th Siargao Cup
John Mark Tokong captured the fing Cup at the world-famous
over the ranging heights of the wave. Our foreign missions sail through the tides of different cultures and political waves enclosing us in the center of negotiations and dialogues,” Andanar said. Secretary andanar also underscored the importance of cultural fusion in achieving peace and order, may it be in politics and sports, just like the success brought by President Rodrigo Duterte from his recent state visit in Russia.
“On his second state visit and meetings with the Russian President Vlademir Putin and Prime Minister Medvedev. Our Mayor and President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has once again surfaced with agility. Like our renewed relations in the global realm, may the Siargao International Surfing Cup flourish and may also serve as an avenue for as a sport that transcends divisions in the convergence of cultures,” said society just the same as diplomacy that Andanar. aids in advancing country’s diplomatic The event is sanctioned by the aims. World Surf League and supported by “Surfing as a sport is like the art the Philippine Sports Commission and of diplomacy. One has to be strong the Department of Tourism. (VLG/PIAenough to stand on a board, cruise Surigao del Norte) October 19-25, 2019
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REGIONAL NEWS
Regional News I Empowering Communities
SurSur hosts 3rd Caraga RTF-ELCAC meeting By Jennifer P. Gaitano
BUTUAN CITY – The members of the Caraga Regional Task Force – Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) convened for its 3rd quarter meeting held on Wednesday (Oct. 23) in Tandag City, Surigao del Sur to discuss with various stakeholders the pressing issues and concerns in the communities, as part of the continuing effort of the government in implementing the Executive Order No. 70 or the whole-of-nation approach to end the insurgency. In the said meeting, the members of the Regional Development Council (RDC) and Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) Caraga also joined and actively participated in the discussion. Among the issues and concerns raised include the needed equipment of the farmers which could help them till their lands easier and increase their yields; education of the Indigenous Peoples (IP) youths; security of the IP
communities; farm to market road in remote areas; and aid for the former rebels, among others. Updates on the non-Department of Education (DepEd) operated schools in Surigao del Sur were also tackled. In view of the complicated issues of the Tribal Filipino Program for Surigao del Sur (TRIFPSS, Inc.) and Alternative Learning Center for Agricultural and
October 19-25, 2019
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Regional News I Empowering Communities caravan spearheaded by the RTF-ELCAC member agencies.
Livelihood Development (ALCADEV, Inc.), Regional Development Council chairperson and Agusan del Norte Gov. Dale Corvera has suggested for the creation of a Technical Working Group to discuss the issues and present solutions and plans.
Sec. Nograles said the Caraga RTF-ELCAC serves as the bridge in bringing the government closer to the people through the services provided by concerned government agencies and local government units. In his message, Surigao del Sur Governor Alexander Pimentel vowed to assist the farmers in Brgy. Maitum and assured that the provincial government will help them in their needed equipment that would improve their yields and income.
Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security (CORDS) and Caraga RTF-ELCAC chairperson Cabinet Secretary Karlo Alexi Nograles, who presided the meeting, stressed the strong directive of President Rodrigo Duterte in solving the local communist armed conflict in the region.
“The provincial government with all its local government units are continuously promoting the welfare of the locals in the barangays and addressing their issues and concerns. We believe that with constant dialogue with the different sectors, their concerns will be addressed with “Caraga is a top performer among the help of the concerned government other regions in the implementation of Executive Order No. 70. We have agencies,” Pimentel said. accomplished a lot but we know there’s It was also learned that another still a lot more to be done. That’s why we need your full support and cooperation Serbisyo Caravan will be scheduled in Agusan del Sur, wherein government in this endeavor,” Nograles said. agencies will converge and bring Meantime, more than 400 local basic services to the locals in the target residents of Barangay Maitum in Tandag barangays in the area. (JPG/PIACity took advantage of the serbisyo Caraga)
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October 19-25, 2019
Regional News I Empowering Communities
BSP patuloy sa pagsagawa ng Piso Caravan sa Caraga By Jennifer P. Gaitano
LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN - Mas pinaigting pa ng Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) - Butuan City Branch ang pagsasagawa ng Piso Caravan sa ibat-ibang probinsya ng rehiyon. Ito ay upang mas marami pa ang makapagpalit ng lumang pera at barya sa bago at malinis na banknotes at coins.
kung saan pwede silang magpapalit ng kanilang lumang pera. Kaya naman sila na rin mismo ang pumupunta sa mga probinsya upang mas madali para sa mga lokal Ayon kay Glizriel Rose Quijada, na residente na magpapalit. bank officer II ng BSP Butuan City Branch, marami pa ang hindi nakakaalam na “Ito pong piso caravan ay onemay libreng serbisyo sa mga bangko time activity para malaman ng publiko October 19-25, 2019
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Regional News I Empowering Communities Para naman kay John Michael Atenta na isang vendor, bawas perwesyo sa oras ang ginagawang Piso Caravan ng BSP dahil sila na mismo ang pumupunta at tumatanggap ng mga lumang pera at pinapalitan ito. Binigyang-diin din ni Quijada ang kahalagahan ng maayos na pagamit na meron po tayong banking service na pera at sa na magpapalit po ng lumang pera at pagpapanatili ng integridad nito. papalitan po siya ng bago. Kasi dapat po sa pang-araw-araw na financial “Ang kakulangan or challenge transaction, yung gamitin natin is clean pa din for the banking community ay and fit, para madali po nating matukoy ang pagpapalaganap pa ng tamang kung ano po yung genuine versus na- impormasyon sa publiko at paghikayat counterfeit na mga pera. At maiiwasan sa kanila na ugaliing magpapalit din natin ang pagkalat ng mga ng mga bagong notes at coins. Kasi bacteria na dahilan na magkakaroon nakikita namin na yung publiko gusto ng ng mga sakit,” pahayag ni Quijada. talagang nilang makasali sa Piso Caravan kasi nga iniisip nila na wala ng Nagpasalamat naman ang ganitong service sa mga bangko, pero iilang residente dahil mas napadali and hindi nila alam, regular po yung ang kanilang panahong iginugol sa financial transaction ng bangko para pagpapapalit ng lumang mga pera sa sa publiko,” sabi ni Quijada. bago, sa tulong ng BSP. Dagdag pa ni Quijada, may “Mas naging madali sa amin ang karampatang parusa para sa mga magpapalit ng bagong pera dahil mahuhuling may lalabag hinggil sa sa tulong ng BSP. Gusto rin naming tamang pagamit ng pera. talagang mapalitan na ng bago ang napag-lumaan nang pera dahil hindi Samantala, magsasagawa rin ng na ito tinatanggap ng mga malalaking Piso Caravan sa susunod na buwan tindahan,” sabi ni Helen Celana, may- ang BSP sa San Francisco, Agusan del ari ng isang karenderya. Sur at Surigao City. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
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October 19-25, 2019
PROVINCIAL NEWS
Provincial News I Empowering Communities
PDL-senior citizens receive gifts from gov’t agencies By Jennifer P. Gaitano
BUTUAN CITY - The members of the Regional Inter-Agency Committee on Senior Citizens (RIAC-SC) Caraga have brought their gifts for the elderly persons deprived of liberty (PDL) inside the Surigao City Jail and Surigao del Norte District Jail. Each PDL-senior citizen received a personal hygiene kit and food pack, and availed of the free blood sugar testing and flu vaccination from the Department of Health (DOH).
as this was the first time that they experienced being visited by an organization with all the gifts handed to them in time with the elderly week celebration.
The recipients were thankful to According to Jail Officer Lawrence the concerned government agencies, Ortega, shift-in-charge of Surigao City
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October 19-25, 2019
Provincial News I Empowering Communities Jail, one of their priorities is to ensure the of them. We would welcome any help health condition and overall wellness and donation of medicines from other of the senior citizens inside the jail. organizations,” said Ortega. He also hoped that this kind of activity will continue and more organizations would generously extend help to the PDL-senior citizens.
Meanwhile, Jail Chief Inspector Felix Resullar of Surigao del Norte District Jail has also raised the concerns of the PDL.
Ortega added that the PDL-senior citizens also need a long-term supply of medicines and vitamin supplements. Hence, he asked the help of other stakeholders for support.
“We hope that the government could help fast track the proceedings/ trials of the PDLs’ cases in court,” Resullar said.
“The government continuously provide medicines for the PDLs, however, with the increasing number of PDLs here, the medicines and vitamin supplements are still not enough for all
Several PDL also took the chance to inquire on the different programs and services of the government agencies, expressing also their intent to avail of it. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
October 19-25, 2019
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Provincial News I Empowering Communities
DTI-Surigao Norte conducts ACT session By Susil D. Ragas
SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) - Surigao del Norte has recently conducted an Assessment, Consultation and Triage (ACT) Session under its One Town, One Product Next Generation (OTOP Next Gen) program that was participated by selected micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the province held at Surigao City Negosyo Center, this city.
The ACT session, the first phase of the OTOP Next Gen, is a two-day provincial event where selected MSMEs from the province are gathered for their OTOP products to be assessed by designers, food experts, brand consultants and other resource or service providers whether from DTI and its attached functionaries or from other government agencies and partners.
to drive growth.
inclusive
local
economic
The program has two major components. First, OTOP Next Gen - the supply side of the program which offers package of assistance to capacitate MSMEs with the goal of leveling up their products in the areas of design, quality, volume, among others.
OTOP Philippines is a priority After capacitating the MSMEs stimulus program for MSMEs as comes the market side of the program government’s customized intervention which is the OTOP Philippines Hub that
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Provincial News I Empowering Communities will provide physical online channels handicrafts (baskets) made of baliw, and market access platform to OTOP rattan and nito. products. To date, 17 IPs are undergoing Among the participants during prototype execution at Mamanwa the activity were indigenous peoples Community Learning Center, Sitio (IPs) from Sitio Tagbasingan, Brgy. Mat-i Surigao City, an Alternative Learning Tagbasingan, Brgy. Mat-i, Surigao City. System (ALS) learners under the (DTI-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del advisory of Arnel Marte which produces Norte)
SurSur guv initiates IP dialogue in Lianga town
By NGBarcena
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur - With the aim to resolve the issues and concerns raised by some Manobo tribal groups led by the Malahutayong Pakigbisug Alang sa Sumusunod (MAPASU) in the upper communities of Barangay Diatagon in Lianga town, Surigao del Sur governor Alexander Pimentel has initiated a peace dialogue on Monday, Oct. 21 held in Km. 9, Sitio Simuwao, Diatagon, Lianga, this province. October 19-25, 2019
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Provincial News I Empowering Communities Two Bayan Muna Partylist representatives Carlos Isagani Zarate and Eufemia Cullamat, a council member of MAPASU, attended the activity and both shared their thoughts and sentiments to the members of the MAPASU organization. Hawudon Mario Mangadlao, a tribal chieftain, suggested during the open forum that there is a need to reconcile first within their tribe through the Indigenous Political Structure (IPS) judicial system based on the customary laws that they have. The majority of the IP leaders headed by indigenous peoples mandatory representative (IPMR) Datu Jimmy Guinsod had agreed with the suggestion. It was the second activity that the governor had initiated. During the first dialogue conducted on September 11, 2019, the leaders of the said organization, accordingly, told the governor that they would push to conduct the mass evacuation if the government could not find the solution to their demands.
both non-DepEd accredited schools, among others. Pimentel, on the other hand, explained that the presence of the military in the area is part of their mandate coming from the higher up officials, and it is beyond his capacity as the governor to give them an order to withdraw. “The military personnel in the area are performing their duties and responsibilities to secure our land and the people,” said Pimentel. He further urged the people to support President Duterte’s call to institutionalize the Executive Order (EO) 70 or the whole-of-nation approach to end local communist armed conflict (ELCAC).
“As a support to the president’s order to end local communist armed conflict, we are here and we will be coming back together with other government agencies to bring the services and programs directly to the people in order to solve the primary issue of insurgency which is poverty,” In the recent dialogue, they said Pimentel. demanded for the pullout of the military from their respective communities; to Pimentel added that the cease the recruitment for Citizen Armed provincial government will support the Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU) from livelihood programs in the area and their tribe and the establishment of the the construction of school buildings patrol base/detachment; and to stop criticizing the Lumad schools such as provided that they comply with the the Tribal Filipino Program of Surigao del requirements such as the accreditation Sur (TRIFPSS) and Alternative Learning with the Department of Education Center for Agricultural and Livelihood (DepEd). (NGBarcena/PIA-Surigao del Development (ALCADEV), which are Sur)
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October 19-25, 2019
Provincial News I Empowering Communities
SurSur province stands firm in ‘Whole-of-Nation Approach to End Insurgency’
By 1Lt. Krisjuper Andreo Punsalan
The scheme continued but failed again for Bayan Muna representatives, Eufemia Campos Cullamat and Carlos Isagani Zarate with the militant group, Malahutayong Pakigbisog Alang sa Sumusunod (MAPASU) to compel the Surigao del Sur provincial government to withdraw the Community Support Teams assigned in Sitio Simuwao (Kilometer 9), Diatagon, Lianga, Surigao del Sur. During the peace dialogue held on Monday, Oct. 21, 2019, the provincial government cited that military presence is crucial to further establish sustainable peace and development in the area through
Executive Order No. 70. The peace dialogue was intended to promote reconciliation, convergence, sustainable peace and synergy through exploratory and consultative discussions with the
October 19-25, 2019
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Provincial News I Empowering Communities community, concerned government agencies including AFP and other sectors. Yet, MAPASU and Bayan Muna insisted on their demand for the immediate pullout of all Community Support Teams and discrediting the government’s Whole-of-Nation Approach to End Local Communist Armed Conflict citing that it is not the right formula to end the conflict in the community.
The Bayan Muna and MAPASU members have strongly opposed the peace and development initiatives of E.O. 70 and cited rehash false and malicious accusations against the military.
The governor challenged them to tell all, “Sabihin ninyo at ituro ngayon kung sino ang sundalo na nandito sa KM 9 ang nagcommit ng violation at The military, as an observer, ipatanggal ko agad o paalisin dito,” never said a word but a clear and he said. straightforward message of the province through Gov. Alexander Datu Constancio Duhac and Datu Pimentel summed it all. Jumar Bucales said, “Only those who are connected with the Communist “With all due respect, I must tell NPA terrorists fear the Army. If you’re you frankly, only President Rodrigo Roa not in any way connected, there’s no Duterte, the Commander-in-Chief of reason to fear the military.” the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), can order the Army personnel The Lianga Indigenous People’s to move anytime and anywhere when (IP) Council members under their needed. They have a mission to fulfill in legitimate IP Political Structure were line with the Whole of Nation approach dismayed to Bayan Muna, ”We to end local communist armed conflict thought they would support ELCAC that is very crucial to our national (End Local Communist Armed security,” Gov. Pimentel said. Conflict), but then again, they were not here for convergence, they are The presence of the military is here to discredit the military and the not the issue, said the governor. He EO 70 peace initiatives,” they said. encouraged all attendees to move forward and focus on far more relevant Nevertheless, despite Bayan issues such as education, health, and Muna and MAPASU’s accusations, economic, among others and let the the Army personnel did not retaliate military do their mandate and sworn and showed respect. It is the local duty to serve and protect the Filipino government and the IP Community people from the Communist NPA who stood on their ground to defend Terrorists (CNTs). the presence of the military in the MAPASU and Bayan Muna discredit conflict-affected area. (CMO-3SFBn/ PIA-Surigao del Sur) EO 70 and the AFP
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Provincial News I Empowering Communities
NPA surrenderers to receive E-CLIP benefits in Surigao Sur By 1Lt. Krisjuper Andreo Punsalan
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur - The Surigao del Sur provincial government led by Governor Alexander T. Pimentel has enrolled 36 former rebels to the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) to avail of the cash benefits and sustainable livelihood programs on October 10, 2019 at the 7th Special Forces “Spartans” Company (7SFC), 3rd Special Forces “Arrowhead” Battalion (3SFBn) headquarters in barangay Mararag, Marihatag, Surigao del Sur. The rebels surrendered to the 7th Special Forces Company (7SFC) sometime in 2018 and 2019 and were validated through the Joint AFP and PNP Intelligence Committee.
Some of the programs of the E-CLIP include modified conditional cash assistance, sustainable livelihood programs, cash for work, assistance to individuals in a crisis and protective
October 19-25, 2019
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Provincial News I Empowering Communities services for individuals and families.
maging maayos na ang inyong buhay at makasama ang inyong mga Alias Arnel, one of the beneficiaries, pamilya,” he said. called on the communist rebels to follow their path and abandon their armed Meanwhile, the Surigao del Sur’s struggle to end the local communist declaration of persona-non-grata armed conflict. against Communist NPA rebels boosted the province’s implementation of the “Surrender na tayo sa gobyerno. Whole of Nation Approach to end the Wala tayong kinabukasan sa pagsama sa CPP-NPA-NDF. Sila ang matagal na struggle of the communist armed and nanloko at sumira sa buhay natin at political front groups as stated in the pamilya. Tingnan ninyo kami ngayon, Presidents’ Executive Order 70. (3SFBn sana magsurrender narin kayo para CMO/PIA-Surigao del Sur)
AgNor PPOC strengthens strategies to end communist armed conflict By Nora L. Molde
NASIPIT, Agusan del Norte – The Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) of the province of Agusan del Norte has strengthened its strategies to end local communist armed conflict by bringing different government services directly to the people in the identified far-flung barangays especially those rebel infested villages.
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Provincial News I Empowering Communities More than 2,000 residents of Barangays Camagong, Aclan and Jaguimitan have benefitted the free services from the government during the conduct of the PPOC immersion with the help of the different government offices in the province. Nasipit Mayor Enrico Corvera said the conduct of the PPOC immersion in his municipality is of great help in bringing the services of the government to the different areas where insurgency is present. This will also a strategy in knowing what are the other needs of the residents.
the people are the reasons why other people still support the propaganda of the New Peoples Army (NPA).
He said the Provincial Peace and Order Council is working to bring the government services needed to the barangays especially those rebel Aside from the different services infested areas. like medical and dental consultations, seedlings of fruit-bearing trees were Also, Rep. Maria Angelica also given. Rosedell Amante-Matba called on other NPA members to go back to the Belmore Diamante, one of government. “There is no reason why the beneficiaries during the PPOC you will go against the government, immersion, was thankful for bringing the because we are doing everything to services to their area. He said because help you,� she said. of this, he felt the presence of the government and availed what is being The conduct of the PPOC offered to them for free. immersion in the barangays is one way Also, Juanita Prejoles, one of the to fully implement Executive Order No. senior citizens of barangay Camagong, 70 of President Rodrigo Duterte to end who received free reading glasses said local communist armed conflict in the this is the first time that she received area, said Provincial Director Ellen Vee such assistance from the government. Chua of the Department of the Interior Governor Dale Corvera believed and Local Government. (NCLM/PIA that poverty and lack of services to Agusan del Norte) October 19-25, 2019
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120 youths from conflictaffected villages undergo leadership training
By 1Lt. Roel T. Maglalang
BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte – A total of 120 youths from the three conflict-affected barangays of Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte attended the three-day Barangay Youth Leadership Summit (YLS) on October 1113, 2019 held at the Casiklan National High School, Brgy. Casiklan, Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte. The local government unit of Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte in partnership with the 23rd Infantry “Masigasig” Battalion (IB), Philippine Army gathered the youth from the barangays of Ibuan, Casiklan and Durian (IBUCADUR) to nurture and develop them to become responsible citizens and a good leader
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in the near future. The said summit with the theme “Kabatan-onan Hiusahon aron Kaugmaon ug Kahapsay Maangkon” (Unite the Youth for Brighter Future) included a series of lectures from different stakeholders, small group
October 19-25, 2019
Provincial News I Empowering Communities discussions, disaster preparedness orientation, cultural presentation, team-building activities, and spiritual enlightenment. Punong Barangay Edwin C. Pasquito of Brgy Casiklan extended his gratitude to the local government unit of Las Nieves and 23IB for conducting the YLS. “Always remember that you are still young having juvenile mind and principles in life. Avoid being victimized by the NPAs for you to live having no fear of threat and atrocities. Let us support our government. We only have one government; who provides opportunities and services to its people. You are the hope of our nation, always take good care of your future and love the life you have,” said Pasquito. Meanwhile, Las Nieves Mayor Avelina S. Rosales thanked the 23IB for
their efforts in conducting Barangay YLS in her town. “This activity is our way of communicating with our Youth to show that the government is concerned of their welfare because we want them to be always in a peaceful situation. Also, I encourage the participants to be a good leader in the future,” she said. Moreover, Lt. Col. Francisco L. Molina Jr, 23IB Commanding Officer, urged the youth not to be afraid to dream big, “Do not stop until you reach it. We will be so glad to see you soon as one of the great leaders who will stand for peace and development in your barangay. Also, always put in mind what you have learned here, and do not let the enemies ruin your lives. Always be a responsible youth and start it in your families, in school and your community as well,” Molina said. (CMO Officer, 23IB, Philippine Army/PIA Agusan del Norte)
Another AgNor town declares NPA persona non-grata By 1Lt Nonette B. Banggad
CABADBARAN CITY, Agusan del Norte - The municipality of Kitcharao in the province of Agusan del Norte heeded President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s call to obtain a lasting peace by recently signing a resolution declaring Communist New Peoples Army Terrorists (CNTs) as persona non-grata (PNG) and created a task force that would End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) held at the municipal hall, Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte. October 19-25, 2019
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Provincial News I Empowering Communities
The said municipality is one of the a soldier who is obliged to follow orders Conflict-Affected Areas (ConAAs) in without questions and hesitation, so we the whole area of operation of the 29th must do the same,” he said. Infantry “Matatag” Battalion. Mayor Aristotle E. Montante The said event was graced by thanked his constituents for their support Municipal Mayor Aristotle E. Montante and courage, which they have shown together with Vice Mayor Leo D. Galua during the recent declaration. and attended by other Sangguniang Bayan (SB) members and Barangay “Dako kaayo akong pasalamat Captains of the said municipality. The sa gipakita nga suporta sa tanang highlight of the event was the reading katawhan nga nagmaisugon sa ilang and signing of the Joint Municipal pagdeklara ug Persona non-Grata ug Peace and Order Council (MPOC) pagporma niining Task Force- ELCAC. and Municipal Development Council Maninguha kita nga mawala na kining (MDC) Resolution No.1 for the creation mga kagubot dire sa atong lungsod of Municipal Task Force (MTF)-ELCAC para atong makab-ot ang kahusay ug and Resolution MG-036 Series of 2019 kalinaw kay kung walay kalinaw, walay for the declaration of persona non- puy kalambuan (I am deeply grateful grata as duly adopted and attested by for the support and courage which the whole members of the board of SB you all have shown in declaring (the in the said municipality. CNTs) Persona Non-Grata as well as the creation of this Task Force- ELCAC. According to Vice Mayor Galua, Let us, therefore, do all we can to end the creation of the task force that this conflict in our area so that, we can would end local armed conflict and the attain peace and development. For declaration of PNG was anchored on assuredly, there will be no development the Executive Order (EO) 70 mandated if there will be no peace),” he said. by no less than President Duterte, an (CMO Officer, 29IB, PA/PIA Agusan del order which must be obeyed. “Just as Norte)
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Dinagat farmers receive land titles, farm machines SAN JOSE, Dinagat Islands - Some 766 agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) received their certificates of land ownership award (CLOAs) from the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in a ceremony held last October 9, 2019 at the Provincial Capitol Convention Center of Dinagat Islands.
The CLOAs cover 1,067 hectares income,” Plaza added after receiving of agricultural land in different her CLOA. municipalities of this province. At the same event, Asec In her message, DAR Assistant Cristobal, assisted by DAR 13 Regional Secretary Milagros Milabel Cristobal, Director Leomides Villareal, led the who was representing Agrarian Reform ceremonial turnover of farm machines Secretary John R. Castriciones, urged to three agrarian cooperatives in the the beneficiaries to do their part in municipality of Loreto, Dinagat Islands. improving their respective farmlands The farm machines were provided and elevating their economic lives. under the Climate Resilient Farm Productivity Support Project. “We promise to give you support services like farm machines, access to The program aims to boost farmers’ credit and various training to help you household income by modernizing their sustain the gains that you reap from this farming through the provision of new land that is now legally yours,” Cristobal equipment. said. The DAR turned over rice threshers, One of the beneficiaries, Ricely rice harvesters, shredders and mud Plaza, 52 years old from the municipality turtles to three agrarian cooperatives of Basilisa said that he has been working namely; Ang Kahugpongan Alang in the land assisting his parents until they sa Kalambuang Agraryo, ARB both died several years ago. Cooperative, Santiago Volunteers Consumer Cooperative, and the “Now, as the heir to this farmland, I Coastal Area Manager of Esperanza plan to intercrop my coconuts with root ARB Cooperative. (DAR-Caraga/PIAcrops and vegetables for additional Dinagat Islands) October 19-25, 2019
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MINDANAO NEWS
Mindanao News I Empowering Communities
Mindanao IPs cut ties with Reds to promote peace, dev’t By Marna Dagumboy Del Rosario
CLARK FREEPORT, Pampanga - Leaders of different tribal groups in Mindanao disclosed Friday that they decided to cut their ties with the Communist Party of the PhilippinesNew People’s Army (CPP-NPA) to promote peace and development not only in their communities but in the entire country. This, according to indigenous peoples (IPs) leadets during the “Usapang Pangkapayapaan-Usapang Pangkaunlaran” forum in Central Luzon held at the Officers Club of the Philippine Air Force, in this freeport zone. Datu Awing Apuga, leader of the Ata Manobo Talaingod tribe, said they decided to defect to the government in order to save the youth from the “deception” of the communist terrorist group. “Maraming kabataan ang nasisira dahil sa kaguluhan kaya pinili na naming lumabas sa kilusan para magkaroon na ng kapayapaan ang aming komunidad at ng buong Pilipinas (There are many
youths whose lives were ruined due to violence. That is why we chose to defect from the rebel movement to have peace in our communities and in the entire Philippines)” he said. Apuga, who is a former leader of the CPP-NPA in their tribe, said they came out in the open to raise awareness on the modus of the communist terrorist group in sowing violence and recruiting new members. “Okay na kami sa kung anong meron kami ngayon. Di namin kailangan ng ano pang yaman okay na sa amin ang ancestral domain (We are doing well with what we have now. We do not need any wealth. We are alright with
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Mindanao News I Empowering Communities the ancestral domain),” he said.
from small stores in the town to give to them),” said Bae Magdalina Iligan, of Other IP leaders also shared their the Mamanwa Manobo tribe. respective experiences and sufferings with the CPP-NPA. The IP leaders recently flew to Europe to expose the supposed They recalled being forced to foreign funds funneled to Philippine collect revolutionary taxes in their organizations that have links to the CPPrespective areas in Mindanao. NPA. They also rallied the international community to resist the narratives of the “Ako po ang napag-atasan rebel group. mangolekta ng revolutionary tax sa mining industry sa area ko at kahit sa The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist maliliit ng tindahan sa kabayanan para organization by the United States, maibigay namin sa kanila (I was tasked European Union, United Kingdom, to collect revolutionary tax from the Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and mining industry in my area and even the Philippines. (PNA)
TF Bangon Marawi chief hails ‘faster’ clearing ops
By Nef Luczon
MARAWI CITY - Amid criticisms characterizing slow-paced rehabilitation works in this city, the chairman of Task Force Bangon Marawi (TFBM) said the clearing of unexploded ordnance (UXO) in the “most affected area” (MAA) has actually taken “much faster” than expected. “They said it will take two years, but ours only took a year,” said Secretary Eduardo del Rosario, chairman of the Housing and Urban Development. Coordinating Council (HUDCC) and TFBM head, during a peace forum Thursday attended by government officials and affected residents here.
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clearing operations involving the removal of UXOs and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) was the primary reason why it took the government a year to start the rehabilitation and development works with the MAA.
Despite this, Del Rosario said that the government efforts remain on Del Rosario explained that the schedule.
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Mindanao News I Empowering Communities “On October 30, the Army will declare that MAA is safe of bombs, and on November 30, all other projects aligned in the rehabilitation will begin,” he said.
However, Marawi City Mayor Majul Gandamra made it clear that affected homeowners within the MAA will not be allowed to repair or make improvements on their properties unless they comply with the necessary permits It has been two years since and clearances. President Rodrigo Duterte declared that the Islamic City was “liberated” Some of the requirements, from ISIS-inspired Maute militants. Gandamra said, include the demolition permit, building permit, and appropriate On Wednesday, October 16, engineering plans. Residents must TFBM member-agencies led the final also submit proof of ownership of their disposal of recovered ordnance inside properties, he added. the MAA. Earlier this month, several members Col. Irineo Sebastian, Task Force of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region Builder commander, said that although in Muslim Mindanao’s (BARMM) interim clearing may not be at 100% yet, he parliament sought an investigation on was confident that the MAA is now safe the delays in the rehabilitation efforts. for residents to return. (PNA)
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NATIONAL NEWS
National News I Empowering Communities During the Ilocos leg of the FOI Caravan on Friday, PCOO Secretary Martin Andanar encouraged the audience to utilize Executive Order No. 2 or the FOI to access public records and partake in shaping policies and laws.
SEC. MARTIN ANDANAR PCOO
NEWS CORNER
PCOO underscores FOI as venue to shape public policies, laws
“We must enjoin individual citizens from the villages, whose common sense logic and opinions help shape policies and laws,” he said.
With the policy, the public is ensured that accurate and sufficient information is given directly from concerned agencies under the executive branch. It also serves as a tool to aid social media users LAOAG CITY - The Presidential against fake news.
Communication Operations Office (PCOO) renewed calls for public participation to shape policies and laws through Freedom of Information (FOI).
“Freedom of Information underlines the wisdom of the public. Fake and false news presumes an ignorant public. Freedom of
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National News I Empowering Communities Information cleans the media environment from the pollution that is often spread through social networking,” Andanar added.
from domestic to foreign interests; and from within the government itself between related offices,” he said.
The FOI Caravan is one of the banner programs of the PCOO, which helps promote the public’s access to information. This is currently being rolled out nationwide in academic institutions to advocate for its implementation, adoption, and usage.
“May this FOI Caravan be the trail-blazer for giving to our people the government of their present and future ideal, the government they built with their individual and collective labor, the government that serves their basic needs and elevates them to a comfortable The PCOO chief also said the measure of contentment, selfpolicy propelled engagements with reliance, and dignity,” he added. both the public and private sectors. The FOI was signed by “We have a broad network of objectives for the FOI -- from civil President Duterte on July 23, participation to enlivened public 2016, recognizing the right of the discourse; from mobilizing local individual to information and officials to enriching the community allowing access to certain public consciousness of each individual; documents. (PCOO)
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National News I Empowering Communities
Infra damage in Mindanao quake reaches P86-M: DPWH By Ferdinand Patinio
MANILA – Infrastructure damage from last week’s strong earthquake in Mindanao has so far reached PHP86 million, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) reported on Monday. According to the report of DPWH in Region 12, some infrastructures were partially damaged and are continuously being monitored due to the occurrence of aftershocks.
Other affected bridges include Buayan Bridge along Digos-Makar Road in Sarangani, and the Upper Silway Bridge along Albert Morrow Boulevard in South Cotabato.
All major roads and bridges in the Maintenance crew immediately region, however, remain passable, it installed barricade and warning signs added. near the reported road slip along Marbel-Makar and Makar Kiamba Upon inspection, cracks were roads in South Cotabato, and in the noted on the bridge bank protection Maitum-Lake Sebu road in Sarangani. of Olandang Bridges 2 and 3 along the Midsayap-Makar Road; the bridge The DPWH also reported that the abutment of Malupog and Malitubog Hall of Justice in Sadaan, Cotabato Bridges along Banisilan-Guiling Road; was severely damaged and needs full and the bridge bank protection of rehabilitation. Arizona and Upper Panicupan Bridge along Dualing-New Panay Road, and On the other hand, DPWH has the Dualing-Baliki Silik Road in North observed minor cracks on the walls Cotabato. of Aleosan District Hospital in Dualing, October 19-25, 2019
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National News I Empowering Communities Cotabato.
jurisdiction and conduct assessment on major roads and bridges, as well as Several school buildings that have public schools and buildings. been damaged in the region were the Dilangalen National High School, “We are encouraging each and Southern Christian College, and Notre everyone to contact our office to report Dame of Midsayap College in North vulnerabilities and request rescue Cotabato; and the New Isabela operations. Together, let us address Elementary School, San Emmanuel the outcomes of the tremor that jolted National High School, and President Mindanao,” he said in a statement. Quirino National High School in Sultan Kudarat. A 6.3 magnitude earthquake hit the southern part of the country DPWH Secretary Mark Villar earlier last October 16 that killed seven directed district offices to issue updates people and left more than 60 on infrastructure damage within their injured. (PNA)
PRRD seeks biz sector help to end corruption By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos
MANILA - President Rodrigo R. Duterte on Thursday sought the help of the country’s business sector to rid the government of corruption before he finishes his term in 2022. Duterte made the call as he once again expressed exasperation over supposedly unabated corruption in government, despite his resolve to stop the irregularities committed by erring public officials and employees.
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“I don’t know where we are now. But they say in Third World countries, things go ever slow. It’s because of inexperience, outright ignorance, or corruption. I have tried my best [since] day one of my administration to really
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National News I Empowering Communities do something about corruption,” he said during the 45th Philippine Business Conference and Expo. “The ways of corruption, hindi mo talaga malaman. Hindi mo masilip (The ways of corruption remain clandestine. These are undiscoverable),” he lamented.
make a complaint, as he would back them up.
“If there is somebody, just a mere whisper about corruption o maghingi, paabutin lang po ninyo sa akin kasi kailangan ko ‘yung input niyo (or bribery, let me know because I need your input) to better serve my country Duterte, whose campaign promise and thereby fulfill what I promised to is to end corruption in government the people,” he said. under his watch, admitted that the total eradication of unlawful activities “At the first mention of corruption by some workers in the private sector in exchange for what you are applying would be a “long, long dream”. for, following up, well just let me know and I will guarantee that I will call the The President believed that the guy you are complaining for the delay Philippine business firms would be of or just putting it up to another day to big help to achieve his goal of having act,” Duterte added. a clean government. Duterte’s call came amid his intent “I need badly the cooperation of to establish a hassle-free environment the business sector,” Duterte said. for investors who want to put up a business in the country. “Sinabi ko na noon (As I said before), I am bent to minimize, if not In his speech, he reiterated his totally eradicate [corruption], which is assurance to the businessmen that his a long, long dream in government. government is implementing measures for their “greater competitiveness and Ngayon, sinasabi ko sa inyo na efficiency”. katulong ko kayo (Now, I’m asking you to help me). I cannot succeed no “Rest assured that the government matter how, even if I fire or dismiss every will remain committed in exploring day as I did, as I’ve been doing for the and implementing measures that last so many month, ‘pag hindi kayo foster dynamic business growth and tumulong sa akin (if you do not help development for the benefit of our me),” he said. people,” he said. Duterte urged business firms to report to him any workers in the “Together, let us harness the government agencies who will attempt strength, ingenuity, and resources of to get “grease money” from them. the business sector towards building a strong and more progressive He told them not to hesitate to Philippines,” Duterte stressed. (PNA) October 19-25, 2019
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