Caraga InFocus – September 18-24, 2021 by Caraga InFocus

Volume V, No. 39 September 18-24, 2021

REGIONAL NEWS

8 9 10 12 14 PROVINCIAL NEWS 16 18 20 21 22 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

RPOC-13 CONVENES FOR ITS 3RD QUARTER MEETING

PSA CARAGA CHIEF ENJOINS CARAGANONS TO SUPPORT THE QSPBI

PDRF CHAMPIONS INCLUSIVE, ACCESSIBLE COVID-19 VAX INFO FOR PWDS

DBP EXTENDS P8.5-BILLION IN REHABILITATION AND RECOVERY FINANCING DA, GO NEGOSYO, LBP NAGHIUSA SA PAGPALAMBO SA AGRIKULTURA SA PILIPINAS

1221 ASPIRING CADETS TAKE PMA ENTRANCE EXAM IN CDOC, BAYUGAN CITY AGSUR READIES IMPLEMENTATION OF TUTOK KAINAN PHASE-3

SURSUR IP LEADERS DECLARE BAYAN MUNA SOLON ‘PERSONA NON-GRATA’ 2 REBELS KILLED, HIGH-POWERED GUNS SEIZED IN SURSUR CLASH

RECOGNITION OF 1ST CITY OFFICIALS HIGHLIGHTS 21ST BISLIG CHARTER DAY

‘RECOVERY ACTIVITY’ KONTRA ASF, NAKATAKDA NG SIMULAN SA SURSUR

OPISYAL NG DEPED BISLIG CITY DIVISION, INIHAYAG NA WALANG PAARALAN SA SURSUR NA KASALI SA IPAPATUPAD NA PILOT TESTING NG LIMITED FACE-TO-FACE CLASSES SA BANSA

LGU-FACILITY BASED QUARANTINE, HUGOT NGA GIREKOMENDAR SA PHO

COVID-19 VACCINATION ROLLOUT SA LUNGSOD NG BISLIG, MAGPAPATULOY NGAYONG ARAW

DTI CONDUCTS ENTREPRENEURIAL, SKILLS TRAINING IN SIARGAO ISLAND PMO SURIGAO JOINS 3Q NATIONWIDE SIMULTANEOUS EARTHQUAKE DRILL

FACILITIES FOR SEAWEED ENTERPRISE TO RISE IN DINAGAT ISLANDS

34 35 37

PDRF, PAYMAYA LAUNCH DONATION CAMPAIGN AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE

ORYENTASYON SA SOLO PARENT WELFARE ACT UG MGA SERBISYO SA AGNOR, GIHIMO

MINDANAO NEWS HYBRID RICE GROWS IN UPLANDS OF MINDANAO! NEXT MALAMPAYA CAN BE FOUND IN MINDANAO: PNOC EC EXEC

NATIONAL NEWS SECRETARY ANDANAR: PRO-POOR PROGRAMS AND POLICIES CONTRIBUTED TO HIGH SATISFACTION RATINGS OF PRESIDENT DUTERTE PCOO MULLS VIRTUAL MEDIA CONVENTION TO HIGHLIGHT BREAKTHROUGH ON NEWS DELIVERY AMID PANDEMIC RESPECT FOR LAW AND GOVERNMENT RESTORED DURING DUTERTE’S LEADERSHIP

41 42 43 44 45 47 48 49 52

CONTENTS

37 40

INFOCUS

COVER

Caraga

STATEMENT OF PRESIDENTIAL COMMUNICATIONS SECRETARY MARTIN ANDANAR ON THE PARTICIPATION OF PRESIDENT RODRIGO ROA DUTERTE IN THE 76TH SESSION OF THE UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY HIGH-LEVEL GENERAL DEBATE

NAT’L GOV’T FUNDING HELPS IMPROVE HEALTHCARE IN MARIPIPI, BILIRAN

SECRETARY ANDANAR: DUTERTE ADMIN UPHOLDS TOUGH STANCE AGAINST CORRUPTION, OPEN TO PROBE ON ALLEGATIONS

SECRETARY ANDANAR: IMPLEMENTATION OF MANDANAS RULING TO AID IN REALIZING POTENTIAL COUNTRYSIDE GROWTH PRESIDENT DUTERTE: SENATE HASN’T PRODUCED EVIDENCE TO BACK CORRUPTION ALLEGATIONS PH EXPECTS DELIVERY OF AROUND 100 MILLION DOSES OF COVID-19 VACCINE BY END OF OCTOBER LAGUNA, BATAAN TO CONCLUDE CASH SUBSIDY DISTRIBUTION SOON, SAYS INTERIOR CHIEF ‘NO ONE MUST BE LEFT BEHIND TOWARDS RECOVERY,’ SAYS BONG GO AS HIS TEAM AIDS THOUSANDS OF VULNERABLE RESIDENTS IN TABOGON AND MEDELLIN, CEBU

STRUGGLING COMMUNITIES IN LEYTE RECEIVE SUPPORT FROM BONG GO AS HIS TEAM VISITS JARO, SANTA FE, PASTRANA, AND TACLOBAN CITY TO BOOST COVID-19 RECOVERY EFFORTS

UNHAMPERED PUBLIC SERVICE DELIVERY ASSURED AS BONG GO’S TEAM HELPS INDIGENT RESIDENTS IN DAVAO CITY FACING HARDSHIPS DUE TO PANDEMIC

58 59 60

OVER 43M COVID-19 DOSES ADMINISTERED IN 6 MONTHS

COVID-19 NEWS

NTF EYES MID-OCTOBER VAX ROLLOUT FOR 1217 AGE BRACKET PURCHASE OF COVID-19 SUPPLIES IN ADHERENCE TO BAYANIHAN 1: PRRD

Secretary Andanar: Gov country’s recovery

The government would rather focus its attention on the country’s recovery from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic rather than entertain the noise from critics, Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar said on Thursday. In an interview, Secretary Andanar enjoined the public to support the administration for the remainder of its term. “We are focused on

|September 18-24, 2021

the recovery roadmap. Sana matulungan niyo po ang ating Pangulo sa nalalabing 8 months dahil tayo din po mga kababayan ang makikinabang dito [We are focused on the recovery roadmap. I hope that you will continue to support the President in the last 8 months of his term because we will be the ones benefiting from this],” he said.

administrasyon, at least mas handa na silang sagupain itong COVID-19 at iba pang problema na ating kakaharapin pagkatapos po nito [Once we fully reopen the economy and transition to the next administration, at least they will be ready to face the challenges brought by COVID-19 and other problems that need to be addressed],” he added.

“Once we fully reopen our economy, kapag nagtransition na po tayo sa susunod na

Secretary Andanar also said that in a span of five years, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has delivered Caraga INFOCUS

vernment focus is on

more than what he has promised in his priority agenda as our head of state. “Ang pangako ni Presidente noong 2016 ay peace and order, law and order, anti-corruption drive, at poverty alleviation. Naideliver po ni Presidente ang lahat ng kanyang ipinangako sa publiko and more [In 2016 the President promised peace and order, law and order, anti-corruption drive, and poverty alleviation. He delivered all these promises to the public and much more],” he said as he cited various Caraga INFOCUS

accomplishments such as the campaign against illegal drugs, corruption, and criminality. Secretary Andanar also said that the PCOO and its attached agencies are currently amplifying these accomplishments through the Duterte Legacy campaign, in order for the public to be more informed of the programs and services of the government. The PCOO chief, as a technocrat himself, said that undertaking such an effort of building more platforms in the media landscape to inform the

public is just one of the initiatives that the agency championed. “Wala tayong ibang hangarin kundi ang magsabi ng totoo, magbahagi ng impormasyon ng maayos at maghanap pa ng ibang paraan para makapagpaabot tayo ng mga wastong balita kaugnay ng mga nangyayari sa gobyerno [We don’t have any other motives but to tell the true narratives, to properly distribute information and likewise to be able to deliver accurate news on the situation in government],” he said. September 18-24, 2021 |

News Briefs (VACCINATION ROLLOUT UPDATE) As of Sept. 23, 2021, DOH Caraga reports a total of 392,066 vaccinated individuals, regionwide. Vaccination of qualified individuals still ongoing in the different vaccination sites of the region. #BeVaccinated #ResBakuna xx

The Human Resource Development Division of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) in coordination with the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), conducts this afternoon a webinar to reorient PIA employees on GSIS programs specifically on insurance, disability, separation, and retirement benefits. The GSIS offers an array of benefits for all its members. It insures its members against the occurrence of certain contingencies in exchange for their monthly premium contributions.

Members of the Caraga Regional Search Committee for the 2021 Search for Outstanding COVID-19 Volunteers (SOCV) convened virtually to discuss concerns on the conduct of this year’s SOCV. The SOCV is spearheaded by the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA). The national government agencies will continue to provide technical assistance and capacity development prograns to all the LGUs after the devolution of functions and services. “This is to help them build necessary competencies and capacities in implementing the devolved functions,” said Dir. Lilibeth Famacion of DILG-Caraga during the Kapihan with PIA. The NGAs will still intervene especially in the implementation of big ticket projects, augmenting the needs of LGUs.

REGIONAL NEWS

RPOC-13 convenes for its 3rd Quarter meeting

measures against criminality and insurgencies resulting from the attacks and schemes of the communist-terrorist groups (CTGs).

The Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC)-Caraga held its 3rd Quarter Meeting for CY 2021 recently through a virtual teleconference via Zoom. MGen. Romeo S. Brawner, Jr., 4th Infantry Division Commander, Philippine Army is the newly installed co-vice chairperson of RPOC XIII Caraga as he took his oath of office during the meeting. DILG-Caraga regional director Lilibeth A. Famacion reported the accomplishments and updates of the RPOC, highlighting the conducted activities of the recent National Crime Prevention Week (NCPW) Celebration with the theme, “Komunidad at Pamahalaan Magtulungan: Krimen, Korapsyon at Pandemya Labanan.” Also emphasized in her presentation was the surrender and assistance to former rebels and demilitarization of firearms under the Enhanced Local Comprehensive Integration Program (ECLIP).

|September 18-24, 2021

Three resolutions were also presented and approved and adopted, which follows: 1. Resolution No. 10, Series of 2021 “Resolution Adopting the Supplemental Guide on the Handbook in Handling Internal Displacement” 2. Resolution No. 11, Series of 2021 “A Resolution Commending the City of Cabadbaran, Agusan Del Norte for Being the First to Contribute for the CY 2021 RPOC Contribution” 3. Resolution No. 12, Series of 2021 “A Resolution Approving the Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) XIII Operational Fund Expenses for CY 2020 and CY 2021” Significant updates from the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) were presented and discussed regarding the peace and order and public safety situation in the region specifically on the counter-

Also part of the discussion was the Presidential Proclamation No. 1218 which further extends the period of a state of calamity throughout the Philippines due to COVID-19, declared under Proclamation No. 1021, Series of 2020. The declaration will, among others, effectively afford the national government as well as local government units (LGUs) ample latitude to (a) continue to implement the COVID-19 vaccination program; (b) utilize appropriate funds, including the Quick Response Fund, in their disaster preparedness and response efforts to contain the spread of COVID-19; (c) monitor and control prices of basic necessities and prime commodities; and (d) provide basic services to the affected populations. Director Famacion announced to the members that council chairperson RPOC chairperson and provincial governor of Surigao del Sur Alexander T. Pimentel will share the LGUs’ best practice on the Caraga Roadmap for Peace during the lecture series on Peace and Local Government in the upcoming celebration of the National Peace Consciousness Month this September 23, 2021. (LGOO VI Florian Faith Jr. P. Bayawa, DILG-Caraga/DMNR/ PIA-Caraga)

Caraga INFOCUS

PSA Caraga chief enjoins Caraganons to support the QSPBI The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) has started the distribution of questionnaires for the conduct of the 3rd quarter 2021 Quarterly Survey on Philippine Business and Industry (QSPBI) in Caraga region. The questionnaires were distributed starting Sept. 13 until Oct. 1, 2021 and will be collected starting the 1st week of Oct. to the 3rd week of December 2021. According to PSA Caraga regional director Dr. Rosalinda C. Apura, the conduct of the 2021 Quarterly Survey on Philippine Business and Industry (QSPBI) is one of the designated statistical activities of the agency that collects data on employment, compensation, value production (for mining and quarrying and manufacturing sectors), total revenue, total inventory of goods, and capacity utilization. Caraga INFOCUS

“The results of the survey will provide inputs in the compilation of the Quarterly National Accounts (QNA) and in the construction of Quarterly Economic Indices (QEI) and for monetary policy review of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas which measure the performance of the Philippine Economy,” Apura said. Dir. Apura enjoined all sample establishments of Caraga region to respond truthfully and timely in the Quarterly

Survey on Philippine Business and Industry (QSPBI). She also assured that all the data and information furnished by a respondent to statistical inquiries, surveys and censuses of the PSA shall be treated as confidential and shall not be used for purposes of taxation, investigation or regulation as provided under Article 55 of Republic Act 10625. (NCLM, PIA Caraga) September 18-24, 2021 |

PDRF champions inclusive, accessible COVID-19 vax info for PWDs

The Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF)’s Task Force T3 and Project K3 are currently conducting a campaign to provide essential information on the COVID-19 vaccines for persons with disabilities (PWD) with the support of the Department of Health (DOH) and various PWD organizations. The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately impacted PWDs because they have had to contend with the

|September 18-24, 2021

burden of navigating this new public health emergency in addition to existing communication, technological, and social barriers and challenges. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, PWDs are at a greater risk of contracting the COVID-19 virus, severe disease and death upon infection, and new and worsening health conditions due to the different and complex barriers they face.

WHO recommends that governments consider PWDs when prioritizing sociodemographic groups for initial immunization phases, including providing accessible information and communication about vaccination against COVID-19. In response to this issue, PDRF has collaborated with several PWD support networks to bring essential information to the deaf and blind communities. Organizations include Caraga INFOCUS

the Commission of Human Rights, Resources for the Blind, Inc., ATRIEV, the National Organization of VisuallyImpaired Empowered Ladies (NOVEL), FSL Access Team for COVID-19 (FSLACT), and Tagapagsalin ng Wikang Senyas Workers Cooperative (TWSWC). For the Deaf community, Task Force T3 conducted three virtual Town Halls with Filipino Sign Language (FSL) interpretation in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao where DOH representatives answered questions from the Deaf community about COVID-19 vaccines and their rollout. T3 also codeveloped a series of DOH ResBakuna video clips on essential vaccine information in FSL. For persons with visual impairment, T3 and Project K3 have organized guestings on the August 22 and 29 episodes of the Resources for the Blind radio show, “Si Bartimeus at Ako” which airs every Sunday, 7:30 p.m. at 702 DZAS. Caraga INFOCUS

Also, PDRF participated in an episode of InkluNasyon entitled “Kung Ikaw ay Bakunado, Protektado Ka Gyud?” last August 18. InkluNasyon is a Facebook Live talk show program discussing the lives and issues of PWDs and the call for an inclusive society. It is a project of the Philippine Coalition for the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), Education Network (E-Net Philippines), and LAPIS-SeeSaw Channel. During the episode, PDRF Executive Director Veronica Gabaldon reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to an inclusive communication campaign and encouraged the audience to get vaccinated against COVID-19. Nakikiisa po kami sa paghihikayat sa lahat po na magpabakuna kasi kapag mas marami na tayong nabakunahan, we will achieve our target for herd immunity. Unti-unti na po magbubukas

ang ekonomiya natin. Importantengimportante po yan para sa ating kabuhayan, para sa buong bansa. Masaya po kami na makibahagi sa ganitong klaseng platform at sa ganitong pagtutulungan (We are united in enjoining everyone to be vaccinated because when more people are vaccinated, we will achieve our target for herd immunity. Our economy will slowly begin to re-open and this is very important for all our livelihoods and the entire country. We are happy to take part in this kind of platform and collaboration),” said Gabaldon. The PDRF team continues to work on translating existing DOH material into more accessible formats. These will be disseminated to the different PWD support networks as part of this overall campaign for inclusivity and accessibility. Learn more about Task Force T3 and Project K3 through https://iadapt.pdrf.org/ k3/. (PDRF/PIA-Caraga) September 18-24, 2021 |

DBP extends P8.5-billion in rehabilitation and recovery financing

State-owned Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) has approved P8.5 billion in funding support for the rehabilitation efforts of both public and private institutions adversely affected by the current public health crisis, a top official said. DBP President and Chief Executive Officer Emmanuel G. Herbosa said for the first six months of the year the bank has extended financing support to 90 firms under its

|September 18-24, 2021

Rehabilitation Support Program on Severe Events (RESPONSE) and its sub-program DBP RESPONSE to accelerate Micro-Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Recovery. “The DBP RESPONSE will continue to be the bank’s centerpiece program to encourage private businesses and public institutions to rebuild, rehabilitate, recover and to resume operations, thereby boosting the government’s national

recovery program,” Herbosa said.” DBP is the fifth largest bank in the country in terms of assets and provides credit support to four strategic sectors of the economy – infrastructure and logistics; micro, small and medium enterprises; environment; social services and community development. The DBP RESPONSE also provides rehabilitation financing support to DBP and non-DBP Caraga INFOCUS

borrowers stricken by calamities and/or force majeure events including typhoons, floods, drought, pest and disease infestations, earthquakes, peace and order problems, and other similar events resulting to significant socio-economic damages. Herbosa said under the DBP RESPONSE, 30 borrowers have been granted new loans totaling almost P4.8-billion with the majority located in Luzon and engaged in the accommodation and food service industries, wholesale and retail trade, public administration and defense, manufacturing, financial and insurance activities, and other service activities.

(LGUs) and government corporations such as water districts, state universities and colleges. “DBP RESPONSE offers a longer repayment period of up to 15 years, inclusive of a three-year grace period, for public borrowers and up to 10 years with a three-year grace period for private institutions,” Herbosa said.

The DBP RESPONSE – MSME RECOVERY subprogram offers low interest and flexible terms to duly registered medium enterprises, including start-ups and cooperatives engaged in agri-fishery and non-essential businesses. It also covers wholesale lending to rural banks, thrift banks, microfinance-oriented banks, and non-bank He said the program financial institutions caters to private including cooperatives institutions including and microfinance enterprises, corporations, institutions, for relending cooperatives, to MSME borrowers. associations, schools, hospitals, and financial He said under the DBP institutions as well as RESPONSE – MSME local government units RECOVERY, 60 borrowers Caraga INFOCUS

have availed of funding assistance amounting to P3.7-billion, with 24 projects located in Mindanao, 21 in the Visayas, and 15 in Luzon that included firms engaged in wholesale and retail trade; financial and insurance activities; agriculture, forestry and fishing; and accommodation and food service industries. He said local businesses, LGUs, and other government entities should avail of the opportunity to futureproof their operations and enhance resiliency as the country girds for post-pandemic recovery. “DBP is poised to provide the strategic assistance to our development partners in the business community and to fellow government institutions as they improve current systems and boost continuity programs to mitigate the impact of future crisis situations,” Herbosa said. (DBP/PIACaraga) September 18-24, 2021 |

DA, GO Negosyo, LBP naghiusa sa pagpalambo sa agrikultura sa Pilipinas

Arun mapadayon ug mulambo ang mga lokal nga agribusiness panahon sa pandemya, gipirmahan ni Agriculture Secretary William Dar ang memorandum of agreement (MOA) inubanan sa Go Negosyo ug LandBank of the Philippines (LBP) nga adunay tumong nga matabangan bahin sa pinansyal ang mga agripreneurs, mag-uuma ug mangingisda, nga gipangmentoran ilawom sa Kapatid Agri Mentor Me Program (KAMMP). Nahitabo ang pagpinirmahay sa

|September 18-24, 2021

MOA pinaagi sa virtual ceremony niadtong miaging adlaw diin ang tulo ka institusyon nikomitar sa paghatag og padayon nga suporta ug paghanyag og mga inobasyon alang sa mga micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) ug arun ma-improbar ang mga kinabuhi sa mga Pilipino taliwala sa COVID-19. Ang maong inisyatibo nagtinguha nga makahatag kini og financial accessibility sa mga agripreneurs, ug makapokus kini sa tulo

ka M nga prinsipyo sa Go Negosyo nga mao ang Money, Market, ug Mentor. Gibutyag ni Secretary Dar, usa ka KAMMP mentor, nga magpadayon ang Department of Agriculture sa pagpangita og mas maayo nga mga pamaagi ug proyekto, ug inobasyon nga mahimong agripreneurs ang mga gaprodyus og mga pagkaon. Dugang pa niya nga kinahanglan nga mas mudaghan pa ang mga MSMEs sa sektor sa agrikultura hilabi na sa panahon sa pandemya. (DA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga) Caraga INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

1221 aspiring cadets take PMA entrance exam in CDOC, Bayugan City

A total of 1,221 aspiring cadets have taken the challenge and took the Philippine Military Academy Entrance Exam (PMAEE) in Cagayan de Oro City and Bayugan City on September 15 – 18, 2021. There were 521 young individuals who took the exam held at 4ID Headquarters Gymnasium in Camp Evangelista, Patag, Cagayan de Oro City on September 15-18, 2021 and 600 examinees held at Lope A. Asis Gym in Bayugan City, Agusan

|September 18-24, 2021

del Sur on September 16- 698 regular applicants, 18, 2021. only 390 reported for the exam or 55.87%. Out of the 672 online There were 168 walk-in registered applicants applicants who reported in CDOC, only 48.1% or to take the exam for a 315 reported and took total of 558 examinees. the actual exam with 206 walk-in applicants While last year’s data for while out of 459 online Bayugan City showed registered applicants in that out of 553 regular Bayugan City, 57.30% applicants, only 317 or 254 reported for the reported for the exam exam. or 57.32%. There were 355 walk-in applicants This is the second time who reported to take the that the PMAEE was held exam for a total of 672 during the pandemic. examinees. Last year’s data for Cagayan de Oro Major Julesther Canada, showed that out of the Officer-In-Charge of the Caraga INFOCUS

PMA Team in CDOC, said that the PMA’s Cadet Recruitment and Admission accepted exam registration was done via online application, mail application and thru walk-in application to give all interested applicants a chance to take the exam. He also said that aspiring cadets are really determined to take the exam despite the COVID-19 restrictions and strict protocols and guidelines as there was still a decent turn-out of examinees for this year’s PMAEE. “During the previous years prior to the pandemic, Cagayan de Oro City produced more than 1,000 examinees every year. The low turnout of applicants can be attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic. The minimum health requirement for an applicant for the year 2021 to be allowed to enter the exam venue is a negative antigen test. For those still interested and qualified, there will be PMAEE next year, they may start now their Caraga INFOCUS

preparations to be ready the best and the to take the challenge,” brightest youths to Maj. Canada said. compose the PMA class of 2026. We salute the In his statement, Major determination of those General Romeo Brawner, who took the PMAEE. Jr. said that the PMA Entrance Exam is the first More than the free stage in the recruitment college education with a process for cadetship. well-rounded curriculum He said that this year’s and monthly pay and PMAEE is different from allowances, they will the usual conduct of have the noble privilege examination due to the of serving the country pandemic. The previous and its people, to have one day event became a progressive career as a 4-day activity to part of the Officer Corps comply with the proper in the Army, Air Force or protocols implemented Navy and lead soldiers to fight and counter the to sustain peace and spread of the pandemic. development in our country,” MGen. Brawner “This annual entrance added. (Maj. Francisco examination nationwide Garello, Jr., DPAO, 4ID, is conducted to select PA/ PIA-Agusan del Sur) September 18-24, 2021 |

AgSur readies implementation of Tutok Kainan Phase-3 By Jennifer P. Gaitano

The provincial government of Agusan del Sur is now taking steps towards the implementation of the ‘Tutok Kainan’ Supplementation Program Phase-3 under the National Nutrition Council (NNC) Caraga. Aldrin Atienza, nutrition officer II of NNC-Caraga, shared that there are 11 municipalities in Agusan del Sur which are targeted for the Phase-3 Tutok Kainan implementation, and these are the following: San Luis (one barangay with 60 beneficiaries); Prosperidad (one barangay with 60 beneficiaries); Esperanza

|September 18-24, 2021

(2 barangays with 83 beneficiaries); San Francisco (one barangay with 60 beneficiaries); Bunawan (2 barangays with 83 beneficiaries); La Paz (one barangay with 60 beneficiaries); Talacogon (one barangay with 60 beneficiaries); Veruela (one barangay with 60 beneficiaries); Rosario (one barangay with 60 beneficiaries); Santa Josefa (one barangay with 60 beneficiaries); and Trento (one barangay with 60 beneficiaries). All are allocated with a corresponding budget. “These LGUs had already undergone the

necessary preparations for the Phase-3 implementation. An orientation was conducted to LGU beneficiaries last August 17, 2021 attended by the nutrition action officers (NAOs). They were able to submit the master list of beneficiaries, MOUs/ Resolutions except for Bunawan and Rosario, and completed their inputs on the directory of consignees and implementers,” said Atienza. As to the roles and responsibilities of the provincial government, Atienza further revealed that the provincial LGU shall convene the Caraga INFOCUS

members of the city/ municipal nutrition committees for the orientation and social preparation activities; follow the program guidelines and endorse any deviation to program implementation to NNC-CO/RO deviation; provide augmentation support for the implementation of the program; and the Provincial Nutrition Action Officer (PNAO) to submit monthly reports to the NNC regional office as required by the program guidelines’ monitoring and evaluation provisions. “For the municipality/ city LGU, part of their roles include the realtime reporting of receipt and distribution of commodities to NNC and the submission of monthly reports to the PNAO as required by the program guidelines’ monitoring and evaluation provisions. Meanwhile, specifically for the barangays, orientation and social preparation activities of the beneficiaries should be done. They should also identify a focal Caraga INFOCUS

person who will receive, inspect and maintain inventory of delivered commodities, provide counterpart funding for the implementation of the program specifically to offset additional costs; and assign members of the community who will prepare the hotmeals per cycle menu using fresh produce, among others,” Atienza added. Also, according to Retsebeth Laquihon, officer-in-charge/ Regional Nutrition Program Coordinator of NNC-Caraga , the Tutok Kainan aims to contribute to the prevention of stunting among children 0-23 months old by improving the quality and quantity of food and nutrient intakes and utilization of related Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) for the first 1,000 days of life services among nutritionally atrisk pregnant women and children 6-23 months old in the target Tutok Kainan program areas. “This Tutok Kainan Supplementation Program also intends to achieve the following

specific objectives: 1) Determine the situation with reference to care of pregnant women and infant and young child feeding; 2) Provide supplemental food to pregnant women for 90 calendar days and complementary food for children 6-23 months for 180 calendar days with priority to those who are nutritionally at-risk or undernourished; 3) Implement, monitor and evaluate an integrated nutrition program that helps ensure delivery of complementary ECCD services in the first 1,000 days pursuant to Republic Act 11148; and 4) Document program experiences and strategies for replication in other local government units of the country,” said Laquihon. The NNC also announced that the provincial government of Surigao del Sur is also undertaking the necessary guidelines for the Phase-4 implementation of the said program and initial orientation was conducted to the province last September 14, 2021. (NNC/JPG, PIAAgusan del Sur) September 18-24, 2021 |

SurSur IP leaders declare Bayan Muna solon ‘persona non-grata’ The leaders of the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) members of the Mindanao Indigenous Peoples Council of Elders (MIPCEL)-Surigao del Sur Chapter condemn Bayan Muna Partylist Representative Eufemia Cullamat for her erroneous statements in the Congress recently and intends to impose a punishment on her. Provincial IPMR Datu Jimmy Guinsod “The legitimate tribal leaders of Surigao del Sur strongly denounce and condemn Rep. Cullamat of Bayan Muna,” said Datu Rico Maca, IP Mandatory Representative (IPMR) of San Miguel town. During the meeting and press briefing on Sunday, September 19, at the Provincial Capitol Grounds attended by tribal leaders, National Task Force- End Local Armed Conflict (NTF-

|September 18-24, 2021

ELCAC) spokesperson and Presidential Communication Operations Office (PCOO) USec Lorraine Badoy and Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) chairperson and provincial governor Alexander Pimentel, Datu Maca said that the statement of Rep. Cullamat has negative implications on the indigenous peoples and on the entire indigenous cultural communities (ICCs) in Surigao del Sur. A resolution was presented by Provincial IPMR Datu Jimmy Guinsod on their

declaration of the Persona Non-Grata and imposing a “boney” or punishment against Cullamat for violating the customs and traditions and misrepresenting the IP cultural communities in the province. Tribal leaders comprising the council signed the resolution. Meanwhile, the provincial government will be providing P500, 000-worth livelihood assistance to communities greatly affected by the insurgency, as announced by Governor Pimentel during the event. (NGPB/PIASurigao del Sur) Caraga INFOCUS

2 rebels killed, high-powered guns seized in SurSur clash Two New People’s Army (NPA) rebels were killed while several highpowered firearms were seized after a firefight with government forces at Sitio Agsam, Barangay Cabas-an, Cantilan, Surigao del Sur on Tuesday. Lt. Colonel Michael Reuyan of the 36th Infantry “Valor” Battalion said the casualties were believed to be members of Platoon 2, Guerilla Front 30 (GF30), led by Noel Tumarlas Alacre “Ka Megan.” The enemy immediately withdrew to different directions and left their wounded comrades behind.

rifle; one carbine; one bandolier loaded with two long magazines and one short magazine of M16; four backpacks; two Nokia cell phones; Reuyan added the medical paraphernalia; cadavers were turned personal belongings; over to the Philippine National Police and local and other subversive documents. government units for identification and postReuyan said the clash is mortem examination. a result of the relentless The government troopers combat operations conducted by the also seized some high government troops. powered firearms and other paraphernalia: one “With the support of the M16A1 rifle; one AR18 Caraga INFOCUS

locals and communities, we could easily track down the enemy. It is a manifestation that they don’t want the Communist New People’s Army Terrorist in their area,” Reuyan said. “The 36IB unit grieves with the slain NPAs as they are also victims of futile arm struggle and failed ideology,” the official noted. (with a report from 36IB/PIASurigao del Sur) September 18-24, 2021 |

Recognition of 1st city officials highlights 21st Bislig Charter Day

The local government (LGU) - Bislig celebrated its 21st Charter Day on 18th September 2021 (Saturday) held at Bislig City Cultural and Sports Center.

1st City Vice Mayor - Dr. Pablo C. Chicano, DMD 1st City Councilors * Hon. Reynaldo V. Dominguez * Hon. Orlando A. Merida * Hon. Roberto S. Ang * Hon. Raymond G. History was again Sanglay unfolded in this simple * Hon. Napoleon L. Velez celebration that * Hon. Edwin Malazarte highlights the recognition * Hon. Pablito Llubit of the 1st City Officials 1st Liga ng mga during the cityhood of Bgy. Exec. President Bislig in the Year 2000. -Ms. Gertrudes O. Cabatingan Under the Gawad 1st SK Federation Pagkilala Awardees, President - Ms. Imma they were: Concepcion S. Andal 1st City Department 1st City Mayor - Hon. Heads Florencio C. Garay * Mr. Rosendo R. Campos

|September 18-24, 2021

* Ms. Editha M. Dolosa * Mr. Edwin J. Acevedo * Ms. Raquel L. Bautista * Ms. Minda C. Fernandez * Mr. Aprodecio A. Alba * Engr. Jovino Requina * Ms. Nena P. Villanueva * Ms. Letecia M. Yu * Mr. Rodrigo C. Cariaso * Ms. Brenda M. Estrella * Atty. Pretty B. Celiz Another highlight of the event included the awarding of Centenarian Bisliganon to Aniomado L. Masancay (Sept. 28, 1920) for reaching 100 years old with great experiences and distinguished services to Caraga INFOCUS

the city.

ug hingusbawan nga atong naangkon Also, the winners of taliwala sa mga unos, Ulirang Pulis 2021 were pagsulay kon kini maoy awarded to PCMS bunga sa kahago og Marga Fe A. Feliscuzo sakripisyo sa hiniusang (PNCO Female kusog, pagtinabangay, Category), PEMS paghiusa diha sa Salvador B. Sarsonas hunahuna sa pulong ug (PNCO Male Category), sa buhat ilabina gayud and PCPT Armando kon kini bisbisan sa Bebanco (PCO Male langitnong panalangin Category). sa grasya sa Diyos (It is so sweet to enjoy the Nine finalists of Ulirang success, progress and Pulis were also awarded prosperity we have with certificates of gained in the midst appreciation for of the storms, to test their hard work and whether it is the result of dedication in serving the hard work and sacrifice Bisliganons. of united strength, cooperation, unity in “Katam-is gayud the mind of word and matagamtaman sa deed especially when kalampusan, kaugmaran it is watered in heaven.

Caraga INFOCUS

blessing of God’s grace). Mabuhay ang Bisliganons! Sulig Bislig),” said City Mayor Florencio C. Garay, who was then the first city mayor and the first centennial mayor of the city. The event was attended by Board Members Margarita Garay and Ricky Sayawan, Vice Mayor Jonas Cacayan, City Administrator Engr. Romulo Garay, Members of Sangguniang Panlungsod, Department Heads and staff, men and women in uniform, national and local agencies, and barangay captains. (City Information Office-Bislig/ PIA-Surigao del Sur)

September 18-24, 2021 |

‘Recovery activity’ kontra ASF, nakatakda ng simulan sa SurSur

Sa gitna ng patuloy na laban kontra African Swine Fever (ASF) sa Surigao del Sur, malugod na iniulat ni Provincial Veterinary Officer Dr. Margarito Latore, Jr. na dalawang local government unit (LGU) na ang nakasalang sa “recovery activity.” Aniya, ito ay sa pamamagitan ng ikinasang “environmental swabbing” kung saan ang mga tauhan ng Regional Diagnostic

|September 18-24, 2021

Laboratory sa Caraga ay kukuha ng samples mula sa mga pig pens at tubig sa kapaligiran ng unang mga naapektuhang lugar.

Sakaling pumasa ay susunod na aniya ang pagkakaloob ng sentinel pigs.

Sa Surigao del Sur na may sakop na 17 Ani Dr. Latore, nakamunisipyo at dalawang schedule ito ngayong lungsod ay tanging apat araw sa Brgy. Matho, sa bayan ng Cortes habang (4) na lugar na lamang ang deklaradong ligtas bukas naman sa mga barangay ng Magroyong sa ASF. Ang mga ito at Patong sa San Miguel. ay matatagpuan sa hilagang bahagi ng Dalawang linggo ang magiging pagitan probinsiya. (DXJS RPnang isasagawang Tandag/Greg Tataro, Jr./ environmental swabbing. PIA Surigao del Sur) Caraga INFOCUS

Opisyal ng DepEd Bislig City Division, inihayag na walang paaralan sa SurSur na kasali sa ipapatupad na pilot testing ng limited face-toface classes sa bansa

Inihayag ni Dr. Gregoria Su, Schools Division Superintendent ng Department of Education (DepEd) Bislig City Division, na walang paaralan sa Surigao del Sur na kasali sa ipapatupad na pilot testing ng limited face-toface classes sa bansa. Ayon kay Dr. Su, sa 120 Caraga INFOCUS

paaralan sa bansa na kasali sa nasabing pilot testing, tatlo lamang nito ang mula sa Caraga region, at ang mga ito ay nasa Province of Dinagat Islands. Aniya, ang naturang tatlong paaralan ay nasa lugar na minimal risk at nagqualify sa readiness assessment ng

DepEd Central Office at Department of Health. Sinabi naman ni Dr. Su na nagrekomenda siya ng apat na paaralan sa kanilang division para sa nasabing pilot testing ngunit hindi ito nasali. (DXJS RP-Tandag/John Cuadrasal/PIA-Surigao del Sur) September 18-24, 2021 |

LGU-Facility Based Quarantine, hugot nga girekomendar sa PHO Girekomendar karon sa Provincial Health Office ( PHO ) dinhi sa Surigao del Sur ang istriktong pagpatuman sa LGUFacility Based Quarantine alang ngadto sa mga kaso sa COVID-19.

na nila gisugyot ang pagpatuman sa Home Quarantine labi na nga hingpit na usab nga nakasulod ang Delta Variant dinhi sa probinsya sa Surigao del Sur.

Apan ang gikabalaka Dr. Eric Montesclaros lang niini tungod Gibutyag ni Provincial kay daghan na nga Health Officer Dr. Eric mga eskuwelahan sa Montesclaros nga pagkakakaron nga subay sa ilang datos, gihimong Temporary nagkataas karon ang Treatment and mga kaso sa maong sakit Monitoring Facilities nga nakuha pinaagi sa ( TTMF ) sa mga LGU Home Transmission o ang ang gipangkuha na og pagtakod-takod sulod sa balik sa Department of pinuy-anan. Education ( DepEd ) human nga pormal na Sumala pa nga sa usab nga nagsugod ang sitwasyon karon, wala klase alang sa SY 2021-

|September 18-24, 2021

2022. Tungod niini, gidasig nalang ni Dr. Montesclaros ang mga LGUs nga magpatukod na og kaugalingon nga quarantine facilities alang sa ilang mga konstituwente nga magkinahanglan niini. Una niini, gipahibalo na sa PHO nga anaa na sa High Risk sa COVID-19 karon ang tibuok probinsya basi sa National Standard Average Daily Attack Rate Computation. (Radyo Pilipinas1Tandag/Raymond Samson Aplaya/PIASurigao del Sur) Caraga INFOCUS

COVID-19 vaccination rollout sa lungsod ng Bislig, magpapatuloy ngayong araw Maliban dito, muli rin silang pinaalalahanan para sa mahigpit na pagsunod sa mga minimum public health protocols sa kanilang pagpunta sa vaccination center.

Nagpapatuloy ngayon ang isinasagawang COVID-19 Vaccination Rollout sa dito sa lungsod. Batay sa ipinalabas na impormasyon mula sa pamahalaang lungsod ng Bislig, napag-alaman na magkakaroon ng pagbabakuna simula ngayong araw, Lunes, Setyembre 20, hanggang sa araw na Huwebes, Setyembre 23, para sa 1st at 2nd dose ng Sinovac at AstraZeneca Vaccines. Caraga INFOCUS

Target umano na mabakunahan ang mga nasa Priority Group A1, A2, A3, A4, at A5. Isasagawa ito sa may Bislig City Cultural and Sports Center mula alas – 8 ng umaga hanggang alas – 5 ng hapon. Wala namang nakatakda na vaccination sa darating na Biyernes.

Samantala, batay naman sa pinakahuling COVID-19 Update ng nasabing lungsod kahapon, Setyembre 19, aabot na sa 189 ang bilang ng mga aktibong kaso sa nasabing sakit ang naitala ngayon matapos madagdagan ng 18 na mga bagong kaso at apat na recoveries.

Dahil dito, umakyat na sa 1,670 ang kabuuang bilang ng mga kumpirmadong kaso ang naitala nito habang Kaugnay nito, inabisuhan 1,389 naman ang recoveries. Nananatili ang lahat na gustong naman sa 92 ang bilang magpabakuna na ng mga nasawi. (DXJS magdala ng sariling RP-Tandag/PIA-Surigao alcohol, ballpen, del Sur) pagkain, at tubig. September 18-24, 2021 |

DTI conducts entrepreneurial, skills training in Siargao Island

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Surigao del Norte thru its Negosyo Center in Dapa and General Luna towns in Siargao Island recently conducted the Entrepreneurial Mind Setting cum Skills Training on Banana and Root Crop Chips making.

Rubilyn S. Cellona of Rubie’s Food Products imparted knowledge and techniques as the Skills Training Expert/ Trainor.

During the said training, Olimar O. Sulapas, Trade and Industry Development Analyst, discussed and explained the DTI CORE processes relevant to the operations of Negosyo Center to raise participants’ awareness and understanding about DTI services; entrepreneurial mind setting to help participants grasp the notion of business and instill a spirit of entrepreneurship; and e-commerce is being introduced through social media marketing. (DTI-Surigao del Norte/ PIA-Surigao del Norte)

A total of 25 members form Hugpong Federal Movement of the Philippines participated the said training held in Barangay Malinao, General Luna.

|September 18-24, 2021

Caraga INFOCUS

PMO Surigao joins 3Q nationwide simultaneous earthquake drill

The Port Management Office (PMO) of Surigao participated in the 3rd Quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) in support of the government’s initiative on disaster preparedness.

and offices nationwide in the online disaster preparedness exercise spearheaded by the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and the National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (NDRRMC).

Personnel from ports under the PMO’s jurisdiction such as the Port of Surigao, as well as those from the Terminal Management Offices (TMOs) of Lipata, Tandag, Dinagat and Siargao Islands, actively joined other agencies

PMO Surigao’s Acting Port Manager Froilan Caturla, demonstrated the basic “duck, cover, and hold” technique yet urged everyone to strictly observe minimum health standards such as wearing masks and

Caraga INFOCUS

physical distancing. Originally scheduled last September 9 but was postponed due to typhoons Jolina and Kiko, the 3rd Quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill is part of the continuing efforts of the OCD and NDRRMC to promote and put in place, adequate response mechanisms and procedures to ensure disaster preparedness and resiliency. (PPA-PMO Surigao/PIA-Surigao del Norte) September 18-24, 2021 |

Facilities for seaweed enterprise to rise in Dinagat Islands

Seaweed farmers may soon expand their production as the Seaweed Solar Dryer and Storage Facility funded by the Department of Agriculture (DA) – Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) is starting to rise soon in Barangay New Mabuhay, Dinagat town, this province. Bound to be completed this December, the project will support the business enterprise by focusing on providing production inputs, buying fresh seaweeds of the member farmers, and processing of produce to raw dried seaweeds. The said project will help the New Mabuhay

|September 18-24, 2021

Seaweed Farmer and Fisherfolks Association (NMSFFA) increase the production of dried seaweeds from its members. A Seaweeds Solar Drier, located along the coast of Barangay New Mabuhay with a capacity of 7,500kg per batch will improve the quality of raw dried seaweeds. This will be coupled with a 3x6m storage warehouse with a capacity of 5mt and a motorized flatboat for hauling wet and dried seaweeds from the association members. Aside from seaweed production, the subproject will also

support the communitybased enterprise that includes the proper handling and moving of seaweed commodities and enhance the postharvest processing to increase the income of the farmers and the NMSFFA. In year one, this project envisions to produce and market 109,209 kg of quality dried seaweeds as an added enterprise. It also aims to generate an income of P2.9M for the enterprise and increase fishery household beneficiaries’ income by 25%, from P73,863.64 to P92,350.77. (Zenny G. Awing, DAPRPD13/PIA-Surigao del Norte) Caraga INFOCUS

PDRF, PayMaya launch donation campaign against climate change The Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF) and PayMaya recently launched a donation drive supporting the World Humanitarian Day (WHD) campaign against climate change. PDRF will use the cash donations to buy seedlings for its partner communities and organizations for their tree planting activities. PDRF president Butch Meily highlighted the crucial role played by the private sector in contributing to the fight against climate change. “There are a lot more social investors now in the world and they’re looking for investments that are both profitable and socially good. We could perhaps use that to help the LGUs and the other officials here work on climate change and the non-profit organizations as well,” Meily said during the WHD Climate Forum organized by UN OCHA and PDRF on August 19. PayMaya expressed its commitment to provide digital financial solutions accessible to all and environmentally sustainable. “We all live on the same planet, but the effects of climate change are felt more strongly by the most vulnerable communities, including the unbanked population. That’s why at PayMaya, we are

Caraga INFOCUS

committed to accelerating fintech adoption to ensure that no one gets left behind. Going digital and cashless can help create a more inclusive society and a more sustainable planet for the human race,” said PayMaya public affairs and communications head Nick Wilwayco. World Humanitarian Day is an annual campaign by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UN OCHA) and humanitarian partners celebrated every August 19 with a specific theme advocating for the survival, well-being, and dignity of people affected by crises and the safety and security of aid workers.

This year’s theme, #TheHumanRace, highlights the impacts of the climate emergency on the hardest-hit communities and aims to have their voices heard when world leaders meet at the UN Climate Change Conference (COP26) in November 2021. For more information, visit https://www. worldhumanitarianday.org/ The campaign will run until September 31, 2021. Donate now via pymy.co/pdrf and plant a seed for our planet’s future. PDRF and Paymaya also have an ongoing donation drive as part of disaster response initiatives to the COVID-19 pandemic and Taal Volcano eruption. (PDRF/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

September 18-24, 2021 |

Oryentasyon sa Solo Parent Welfare Act ug mga serbisyo sa AgNor, gihimo mahimo mong produktibo sa inyung pagpanginabuhi,” pahayag ni Paredes sa mga solo parents.

Dugang ni Paredes nga nag alokar ang probinsya og Php1Million para sa programa sa solo parents.

Gihimo sa probinsyal nga panggamhanan sa Agusan del Norte pinaagi sa Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office [PSWDO] ang “Orientation on Solo Parent Welfare Act R.A. 8972” o ang mga serbisyo sa probinsya lambigit niini sa mga solo parents sa Barangay Simbalan ug Lower Olave sa lungsod sa Buenavista kaniadtong Setyembre 22. Gi-introduce usab sa maong okasyon ang training services nga ipadangat sa Technical Education and Skills Development Authority [TESDA] sa mga solo parents. Kapin kon kulang 100 ka solo parents ang nitambong sa maong oryentasyon, ang una sa lima ka batches nga himoon sa pswd.

orientation karon mao ang pagpahibalo sa mga benepisyo alang sa mga solo prarents… Niadto gyod ta sa grassroots kay sila man gyod ang kulang sa orientation. So kita gyod ang mianhi sa ilaha,” sumala ni Rose D. Baclayon, representante sa Department of Social Welfare and Development Office [DSWD]-Caraga. Sumala ni Jeannette Paredes, representante sa Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office [PSWD], usa sa prayoridad ni Gob. Dale B. Corvera nga matagaan og pagtagad ang mga solo parents sa probinsya. Gitaho nga naay 600 ka mga solo parents sa lungsod sa Buenavista lang.

Tuyo sa maong oryentasyon nga mapasabot sa mga solo parents ang mga serbisyo nga pwede nilang pahimuslan.

Padayon ni Paredes nga buot ni Gob. Corvera nga mapadangat gyod ang mga serbisyo sa solo parents aron masuportahan sila sa ilang panginabuhian.

“Ang tumong gyod nato aning

“Abagan mo namo para

|September 18-24, 2021

Apil sa mga serbisyo alang sa solo parents gikan sa probinysa mao ang medical assistance ubos sa Integrated Social Development Assistance Program [ISDAP], Educational Benefits, Counseling Services, Stress Management Services ug Special Projects. Apil sa mga pagbansay nga mahatag sa buhatan sa TESDA, mao ang Food processing, Manicure/ Pedicure, Massage ug Haircut. Gi-tunol usab sa maong okasyon PSWD ang cash incentives ngadto sa siyam ka mga Child Development Workers o Daycare Workers. Niini, mapasalamaton ang mga solo parents sa maong serbisyo sa probinsya alang kanila. “Nagpasalamat ko kay naa sila kanunay nagpaluyo sa amoa kay lisud gyod kung kami ra… Magpasalamat gyud ko nga naa si Gob. Dale (Corvera) ug Congw. Angel (Amante-Matba) nga motabang sila sa amoa,” sumala ni Dahlia Cuingco, usa sa mga solo parents. (Shena Mae Pabia ug Ydheil Zagado, LGU Agusan del Norte)

Caraga INFOCUS

MINDANAO NEWS

Hybrid rice grows in uplands of Mindanao! A mechanized harvester will go through a small plot of about 500-meters which was planted 120 days ago to the modern hybrid rice variety, TH 82, a new rice variety developed by US Agriseeds which could be grown through dryseeding. Unlike in other areas where upland rice farming depends on just natural precipitation, I utilized the modern pressurized irrigation and fertigation system technology of Israel in providing water through a sprinkler system. I do not expect the yield to be dramatic as the demo farm, being the only one in the area, naturally attracted bugs, insects and later, riceeating birds like Maya. Regardless of the yield, the Upland Hybrid Rice Harvest today is considered a major breakthrough in the country’s rice production program as this could

|September 18-24, 2021

open windows of opportunity for poor farming families who own farms in the uplands of Mindanao to plant hybrid rice. While I started this project as a personal initiative, I asked the Philippine Rice Research Institute and my agency, the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) to document to whole process to determine the cost effectiveness of the project. At least 12 other demo farms have been opened in other parts of Mindanao to serve as a learning site for farmers with the support of

Seedworks Philippines, the Local Government Units and the private partners and farmers. Once again, it is proven that with a little imagination and hardwork, the country could easily achieve food self-sufficiency and end dependence on foreign food importation. Earlier, a group of Ilocano farmers in Matalam, North Cotabato showed that with the modern Solar-Powered Irrigation System they increased their harvest from once to thrice a year and their yield from 3 metric tons to 21 metric tons per hectare. Caraga INFOCUS

Next Malampaya can be found in Mindanao: PNOC EC exec

Malampaya gas field (File photo)

As the Malampaya natural gas field is drying up, Mindanao might have the indigenous energy resources to energize the country.

gas source. As the government issued a moratorium on new coal projects, These basins include Bacud said oil and gas Agusan, Cotabato, and exploration, particularly the Sulu Sea. in Mindanao, could help In a webinar of Davao in the government’s International Conference “We still think that there is goal to achieve energy 2021 Thursday, PNOC natural gas potential for independence. Exploration Corp. (PNOC these areas, and it could EC) vice president for be where we could find “We still have a lot of upstream operation the next Malampaya,” natural or oil and gas Jaime Bacud said Bacud added. resources that are Mindanao is rich in still untapped. And indigenous resources The Malampaya gas this could be our way that can support the field, which supplies forward to get closer country’s energy around 30 percent to what we call energy requirement. of Luzon’s power independence,” he requirement, is the added. (PNA/Kris Bacud said Mindanao country’s lone natural Crismundo) alone has three Caraga INFOCUS

sedimentary basins waiting for exploration for oil and gas resources.

September 18-24, 2021 |

NATIONAL NEWS

Secretary Andanar: Pro-poor programs and policies contributed to high satisfaction ratings of President Duterte Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar attributed President Rodrigo Duterte’s high satisfaction ratings to his policies grounded on ensuring the welfare of the poor. Secretary Andanar referred to landmark policies that have contributed to the vision of the administration in providing a comfortable life for every Filipino. Caraga INFOCUS

These included the passage of the Universal Healthcare Law, the provision of free tertiary education in public universities and colleges, assistance to former rebels, and the massive infrastructure projects, among others. “Ipinaliwanag ng lahat ng ito kung bakit hanggang ngayon napakataas pa rin ng satisfaction rating ni Presidente. Nasa 75% pa rin ang satisfaction rating niya [These

policies show why until now the President enjoys satisfaction rating of 75%],” he said in an interview. “Para sa isang pa-exit na Pangulo napakataas ng 75% [For a President who is about to exit his term, 75% is very high],” he added. He also cited some of the policies which promoted inclusive growth for the country. The Social Weather Stations on Thursday September 18-24, 2021 |

presented three batches of survey results starting from November 2020 to June 2021. The SWS survey result in November 2020 showed that 84 percent of respondents claimed that they were “very/ somewhat satisfied” with the President’s performance, while 75% satisfaction ratings were reported for President Duterte for the months of May and June this year. Secretary Andanar mentioned that the improvements done in government media and strengthened partnership with the private media have helped in disseminating the initiative of the government.

“Ang trabaho namin is based on public trust. Dapat magreport tayo because pera ito ng taumbayan [Our work is based on public trust and it is only right for us to report this because we are using the people’s money],” he said. “Kung ang mga negosyante nga nagbibigay ng report sa kanilang stakeholders, how much more ang gobyerno na ang stakeholders natin ay ang bawat Pilipino [If businesses are required to provide a report to their stakeholders, then so should the government because every Filipino is our stakeholder],” he added.

government instead. “Present na present po yang mga programang ginagawa ng pamahalaan. Magtanong kayo sa mga nakinabang kagaya dun sa mga estudyanteng nakinabang sa libreng edukasyon sa kolehiyo [The programs of the government are present. You can just ask those who benefitted from it like the students who are enjoying the free tertiary education],” he said.

“Makakatanggap ka talaga ng mga kritisismo dahil yan naman ay parte ng ating demokrasya at nirerespeto po natin ang kanilang mga pananaw sa buhay, the same way, they The PCOO chief said should respect beliefs, that he respects the values, and our political opinion of the critics He also stressed the leanings [We expect who are tagging the need to report the PCOO’s Duterte Legacy to receive criticisms accomplishments of the campaign as a purveyor because that’s part of Duterte Administration in of fake news. With that our democracy and we order for more Filipinos respect the views of our said, he encouraged to be informed of the critics, the same way, them to do their own they should respect programs and services research on those (our) beliefs, values, and that they can avail Filipino families who political leanings],” he of from government are benefitting from added. offices. the programs of the

|September 18-24, 2021

Caraga INFOCUS

PCOO Mulls virtual media convention to highlight breakthrough on news delivery amid pandemic Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar on Monday said that the PCOO is considering the conduct of a virtual media conference patterned after the first National Information Convention held last 2018 in Davao City.

radio, television and online news portals,” he added. On February 19, 2018, In a radio interview, PCOO launched the very Secretary Andanar urged media practitioners to take first NIC in Davao City which aimed to strengthen part in this “collab” where the state of the information the partnership between public and private sector and communication communicators. technology in the country may be discussed. With the restrictions posed by the COVID-19 “I think it would be very exciting to hear the insights pandemic, Secretary Andanar said that they of everyone, especially will consider a virtual that the first National conference that will be Information Convention broadcasted live on-air by was about three years partner media entities for ago,” he said. the public to witness the said event as well. “I am sure that there are new breakthrough ideas that our media partners have implemented, including best practices that they have applied in news delivery through Caraga INFOCUS

The PCOO chief added that it was through the NIC where the government was able to gather information on relevant

issues that need to be addressed in order to upgrade the capability of government media and public information officers. One of the results of the NIC was PCOO’s decision to build the first Government Communications Academy. a “The NIC led to the creation of the Government Communications Academy because the overwhelming demand raised during that time was upgrading of skills for government information officers and strengthening the relationship between government and private media,” he said. September 18-24, 2021 |

Respect for Law and Government Restored during Duterte’s Leadership Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar on Wednesday said that with the promises of real change delivered by the Duterte administration, respect for the law and the government has been restored. In an interview, Secretary Andanar mentioned that President Rodrigo Duterte made clear accomplishments based on what he had promised in 2016, especially in maintaining law and order, anti-corruption, and poverty alleviation.

ay yung naglipanang droga sa ating lipunan [Each administration has different challenges to address. It just so happens that for President Duterte, it was the proliferation of illegal drugs that needed to be addressed],” he said.

“Nanumbalik ang respeto sa ating batas [We have restored respect for the law],” he said. “Yun po ay kakaibang legasiya that would differentiate the administration from the past administration [That’s the unique legacy that would differentiate the administration from the past administration],” he added as he cited President Duterte’s tough stance in dealing with businesses who are tax delinquent.

PH domain remains intact during Duterte Admin

He said that the peace and order situation in the country has improved during the current administration, starting with its unrelenting campaign to eradicate illegal drugs. “Bawat administrasyon may kanya-kanyang problema at pangangailangan na kailangan solusyunan. At nagkataon na sa panahon ni Presidente Digong ang kailangan solusyunan

|September 18-24, 2021

In a series of interviews he had on Wednesday, Secretary Andanar also said that there was no territory lost during the leadership of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte. He went on to say the Philippine government continues to patrol WPS and assert its sovereignty and sovereign rights under the Philippine Constitution and international law. “Patuloy po tayong nagbabantay, nagmamatyag sa West Philippine Sea at hanggang ngayon ay hindi pa rin po tayo naaagawan ng lupa o bato o feature sa panahon ni Pangulong Rodrigo Roa Duterte [We continue to patrol over the West Philippines Sea and up until now no land or features were taken away from us during the

time of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte],” he said. The PCOO chief cited the modernization efforts for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), which aims to capacitate our military in terms of equipment and personnel management as it carries out its mandate to protect the country, and to maintain peace and order. He stressed that the interest of the people remain at the center of all the undertakings of the administration. “Patuloy po ang ating independent foreign policy na ipinaglalaban po ng ating Pangulo na tayo ay aakto lamang base sa interes ng ating mga kababayan [Our independent foreign policy that our President promotes wherein we only act in the interest of our countrymen],” “An example is the abrogated Visiting Forces Agreement with the United States which he retracted because the President has seen that it is a good way to maintain relationship,” he added.

Caraga INFOCUS

Statement of Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar on the participation of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte in the 76th Session of the United Nations General Assembly High-Level General Debate We in the PCOO commend and support President Rodrigo Roa Duterte in his call for a united international community that is for equality, peace, and stability for humanity’s survival during his speech at the 76th Session of the United Nations General Assembly’s High-Level General Debate. Reiterating the notion of “us”, President Duterte has stressed in his speech the need to collectively respond to the myriad of crises we all face. It is only through united action and response to address the COVID-19 pandemic, unequal COVID-19 vaccine access, climate change, geopolitical instability, human rights issues, rising inequality, and all forms of injustices, among others, that we will be able to resolve the problems that we are facing right now. Cooperation is truly one of the solutions to global issues where we must not spare any country or nation in the world. This is why the Duterte administration has been at the forefront of responding and addressing to these issues through our programs, actions, and policies that undoubtedly contribute to global action. We have pledged to contribute US$ 1 million to the COVAX Facility as our commitment to upholding equal access to COVID-19 vaccines for our collective recovery against the pandemic. This as we also recognize the unfortunate

Caraga INFOCUS

man-made drought of vaccines that continuously ravages most developing countries in their fight against the contagion. In responding to the climate crisis and global warming, we have committed to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions by 75% by 2030 as we have submitted our first Nationally Determined Contribution as part of our shared responsibility to protect and preserve the environment and our planet. We continue to uphold freedom, justice, and equality throughout our last months in office to ensure that we provide the country a stable, comfortable, and secure life for all Filipinos. In this regard, we have finalized our Joint Program on Human Rights with the United Nations to support our suppression of lawless elements, while upholding the human rights and the dignity of every Filipino. We have reiterated our call to end

the Kafala system in the Middle East that has heavily impacted the life, security, and welfare of our Filipino migrant workers for the many years that they have been serving in the region. The Duterte administration has also been in cooperation with ASEAN and our strategic partners to ensure that peace, security, and prosperity will be imposed on the South China Sea. These are just among the vital and firm initiatives and commitments of the Duterte administration in addressing and responding to national, regional, and global challenges that have affected everyone. We enjoin everyone to continue not just supporting these initiatives brought about by President Duterte and his administration, but also to take part in these collective causes as a global citizen for both humanity and Earth’s survival in the face of these difficulties and challenges.

September 18-24, 2021 |

Nat’l gov’t funding helps improve healthcare in Maripipi, Biliran Aside from help in its COVID-19 response and vaccination drive, the healthcare system in Maripipi, Biliran is also expected to significantly improve with the help of national government funding to build a new hospital and health office for people in need. Presidential Communications Secretary Martin M. Andanar interviewed Maripipi Mayor Joseph Canonoy Caingcoy today, September 21, during the Network Briefing News and talked about the government’s initiative to establish a new hospital and health office, citing that these would be essential and beneficial for the people of Maripipi. “I am so happy na ang Maripipi, kahit isang small island, ay napapansin ng ating national government for the general interest of the people. [I am so happy that Maripipi, despite being a small island, is being noticed by our national government for the general interest of the people],” Mayor Caingcoy said.

care service to the people”. As of now, the first building of the emergency care treatment hospital in the said town is already completed, while the second building will probably be finished before the year ends. Mayor Caingcoy also shared that the hospital will house a female ward, male ward, pediatric ward, and isolation ward. In addition, the new Rural Health Office, where policymaking meetings are to be held, is now operational as part of the aggressive fight against the spread of COVID-19.

“Mayroon kaming weekly meetings para ma-prevent namin ang Delta variant and para sa iba pang COVID-19 He also said that the programs. [We have weekly assistance of the meetings to prevent the government, through a P25 Delta variant and for other million peso funding, aims COVID-19 programs],” he “for accessible, quality health added.

|September 18-24, 2021

Maripipi LGU is also eyeing to construct an evacuation center and isolation facility for possible and suspected cases of COVID-19. Other infrastructure projects in Maripipi are Maripipi Municipal Fitness Center, New Municipal Building, Maripipi Seaside Park, and ongoing road-widening projects. For the vaccination program of the municipality, the island of Maripipi is at 24 percent out of its 70 percent target for population protection. The local executive said that the main concern in the inoculation drive is the availability of COVID-19 vaccines. Maganda ang aming pag-aadminister, only the availability of supply ang [kailangan]. [Our administration is good, only the availability of supply is [needed]],” Mayor Caingcoy said.

Caraga INFOCUS

Secretary Andanar: Duterte admin upholds tough stance against corruption, open to probe on allegations Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar on Saturday said that the Duterte administration remains tough on its campaign against corruption and is open to investigations, which proves its bid for transparency in government.

is working,” he said in an interview. “It has become an Secretary Andanar was avenue for the Duterte referring to the motu propio investigations of the administration to show to the legislature and to House of Representatives the people that we have and the Senate in the continued to uphold our past week regarding tough stance against all the alleged overpricing forms of corruption,” he of purchased Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) added. for medical frontliners last Commission on Audit year. (COA) Chairman Michael Aguinaldo reiterated their “The national government agency’s clarification accepted, welcomed before the Senate Blue the investigation which Ribbon Committee that affected our COVID-19 there was no incident of response in a way overpricing on Pharmally that we proved that Pharmaceutical Corp.’s there is transparency. transaction worth P8.68Because of the Senate billion of PPE and other and Congressional medical supplies for the investigations, we have Department of Health proven that democracy (DoH).

Caraga INFOCUS

Andanar

The Department of Budget and Management (DBM), who facilitated the said purchase, had also previously denied the allegations, stressing their efforts to support transparency rather than join in on the politicking. Secretary Andanar said that the purchase of the medical supplies was ethical and necessary given that there was an urgent need to protect the medical frontliners who are directly managing patients who are positive with COVID-19. “We are all aware that cases of COVID-19 was rising during that time and our healthcare workers were in dire need of protection,” he said.

September 18-24, 2021 |

Secretary Andanar: Implementation of Mandanas Ruling To aid in realizing potential countryside growth Implementing the Supreme Court’s Mandanas Ruling in 2022, which will increase the share of national government tax revenue of local governments, will bolster development in the countryside, Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said on Friday. The Supreme court ruling in July 2018 affirmed that LGUs are entitled to a “just share” of all national taxes collected by the government and not just those collected by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR). This was supported by President Rodrigo Duterte when he signed Executive Order No. 138 last June 2021, which prepares LGUs and the national government on the Devolution Transition Plans (DTPs). The DTP will serve as the roadmap to ensure strategic and systematic actions as LGUs take full assumption of devolved functions and services. “The term ‘game changer’ has now become a cliché but really the Supreme Court’s Mandanas Ruling and President Duterte’s subsequent EO 138 are just that,” Secretary Andanar said during an episode of the Cabinet Report.

|September 18-24, 2021

He reiterated PCOO’s commitment and support in decentralizing government by highlighting the potentials of LGUs, through their untapped and underdeveloped resources, which were featured in the Network Briefing News. “More than seeing the potential we need to empower them to act on it and that to me is what devolution brings--the power, the authority, the responsibility, and the resources to make what our people dream for themselves happen all across our 7,641 islands,” he said. Shift of power, authority from NG to LGUs According to the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary

Eduardo Año, with much responsibility and power, LGUs are now in the position to chart the destiny of their people and their community. This will also allow the national government to shift to its oversight functions. He said there will be a 38% increase in the allotment given to LGUs which translates to more or less P260 billion. “The national government will be able to focus on macro and strategic priorities in addressing existing development issues. It will shift from rowing to steering, meaning focusing primarily on development policy, service delivery standards, capacity building, providing technical assistance, and LGU compliance monitoring” he said.

Caraga INFOCUS

President Duterte: Senate hasn’t produced evidence to back corruption allegations

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte talks to the people after holding a meeting with the Inter-Agency Task Force on the Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) core members at the Arcadia Active Lifestyle Center in Matina, Davao City on September 20, 2021. ROEMARI LIMOSNERO/ PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

The Senate Blue Ribbon Committee has failed to produce evidence to support its corruption allegations against the government in the use of pandemic funds last year, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte said on Monday.

Talk to the People on COVID-19. Even Senator Richard Gordon, the committee chairman, conceded that there is no overpricing but still insists on pursuing a partisan inquiry, according to the President.

“The simple fact is that the Blue Ribbon Committee has failed to produce anything to prove its accusation of corruption,” President Duterte said in his

Even the Commission on Audit (COA) did not claim government money being lost to corruption in the Department of Health (DOH), he said, adding

Caraga INFOCUS

the state auditor did not find any malpractices such as overpricing and ghost deliveries during the procurement of medical supplies. The administration, particularly the DOH, has already answered all the accusations and inquiries of the Blue Ribbon Committee with regard to the issue, President Duterte noted. He also called on the lawmakers participating the inquiry to stop September 18-24, 2021 |

politicking and let the government, particularly Cabinet secretaries, to focus on their task of protecting the country and its citizens against COVID-19. “The inquiry is being done at the expense of dragging government officials and compromising the government’s efforts against COVID-19 at the time when cases are at all-time high and thousands of our people getting sick and dying,” he said. “Nandito, instead of working overtime, nandito si Secretary Galvez; nandito si Secretary Duque; nandito si Director General when they are supposed to do their homework kasi maraming mga, well, questions and doubts about maraming medisina, even the Ivermectin.” Gordon’s objective in continuing the probe is to tarnish the good reputation of the administration and to derail its COVID-19

|September 18-24, 2021

response efforts, especially as the country gears towards the 2022 election, he said.

PRC testing facilities but eventually had negative results on their confirmatory tests.

Meanwhile, President Duterte raised the possibility of the DOH investigating the reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RTPCR) testing being conducted by the Philippine Red Cross because of unusually high false positive results.

“Because of this information, then maybe the DOH must investigate this matter. You could be putting more people at risk. You could be falsely adding to the total positive cases per day of this country,” President Duterte said.

According to the President, he received information that 44 out of 49 or 89.79 percent of total hospital personnel who tested positive in PRC testing turned out negative in another molecular laboratory. He added that “187 out of 213 or 87.79 percent of the Presidential Security Group personnel tested positive in the PRC Manila Laboratory but tested negative in their confirmatory test.” Officials of the Department of Finance reported similar experience when they tested positive in

“Ilan ‘yung nadagdag doon sa positive sa isang araw, daily attack, na negative? Nasali na doon sa numero na napakarami na ang nagkasakit. How sure are we now in our figures in the veracity and truthfulness of the test combined eh marami man rin nagpunta diyan sa Red Cross?” Philippine Red Cross is a humanitarian organization in the country that is committed on various social welfare services and promoting volunteerism currently chaired by Senator Gordon. PND Caraga INFOCUS

PH expects delivery of around 100 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine by end of October

also get 5,626,650 doses of the second batch of Pfizer vaccine, according to Galvez. “We have now a steadier supply from Sinovac, Pfizer, AstraZeneca, Moderna, and COVAX,” said Galvez, who is also the chief implementer of the National Task Forces Against COVID-19.

Presidential Adviser on Peace Process and National Task Force against Coronavirus Disease-2019 (NTF COVID-19) chief implementer, Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., gives an update to President Rodrigo Roa Duterte during a meeting with the InterAgency Task Force on the Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) core members at the Arcadia Active Lifestyle Center in Matina, Davao City on September 20, 2021. ROEMARI LIMOSNERO/ PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

The Philippines expects to receive around 100 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines by the end of October, the country’s vaccine czar told President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Monday.

doses from Sinovac; 2,774,400 from Pfizer, (including from COVAX facility), 961,000 doses from Moderna, 661,200 doses from AstraZeneca, and Sputnik V Component II from Russia.

In a briefing, the country’s vaccine czar Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. said the country has recorded the highest weekly volume with the delivery of at least 9.5 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines this week.

This raises the country’s total vaccine inventory to 64,942,000. By the end of September or the first week of October, Galvez expects additional 22 million doses to arrive.

The vaccines are composed of 5 million Caraga INFOCUS

In the final week of September or first week of October, the country will

The vaccine czar also stated that the government would negotiate with the Russian Direct Investment Fund to obtain supply of the single dose Sputnik Light jab. The government has so far administered 41,414,015 doses, with 22,853,606 people receiving the first dose and 18,560,409 getting the full dose. It recorded an average daily dose of 405,669. Galvez said the total number of people who have been vaccinated accounts for 24.06 percent of the 70 percent of the country’s target population and 16.84 percent of the overall population. PND

September 18-24, 2021 |

Laguna, Bataan to conclude cash subsidy distribution soon, says Interior chief The government is concentrating handing over cash aid to the residents of Laguna and Bataan affected by the imposition of enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) after completing the distribution of the assistance in the National Capital Region (NCR). In his report to President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Monday, Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo Año said the distribution of the subsidy is 100 percent complete in Metro Manila and the government has disbursed the entire allocation of P11.2 billion. The distribution of the assistance is ongoing in Laguna, which, at this time, is 96.20 percent complete, according to Año. A total of 2,611,807 recipients has already received the cash aid. Some 18 local government units (LGUs) in Laguna reported 100 percent accomplishment, and Año said they see the province completing the distribution next week.

|September 18-24, 2021

Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo Año gives an update to President Rodrigo Roa Duterte during a meeting with the Inter-Agency Task Force on the Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) core members at the Arcadia Active Lifestyle Center in Matina, Davao City on September 20, 2021. ROEMARI LIMOSNERO/ PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

In Bataan, the distribution is 73.50 percent complete, with 513,235 beneficiaries receiving the assistance. So far, only two Bataan municipalities have completed the distribution: Samal and Abucay, Año said. The Interior chief also made a report on the government’s anti-illegal

drug operations, in which, he said, P219,583,535 worth of shabu and marijuana were confiscated in four days of operation. Año reported that authorities conducted 553 operations from September 14 to 18, resulting in the arrest of 845 personalities. Fourteen suspects surrendered while three died during the drug busts. PND

Caraga INFOCUS

‘No one must be left behind towards recovery,’ says Bong Go as his team aids thousands of vulnerable residents in Tabogon and Medellin, Cebu trabaho at hanggang ngayon ay hindi pa din ito bumabalik. Dahil malapit kami sa dagat, maswerte ang aking pamilya at nakakahanap kami kahit papaano ng makain at maibenta,” shared Emma Tampus, 51, a seaweed farmer.

As part of his commitment to support the government’s COVID-19 response, the Office of Senator Christopher “Bong” Go conducted a relief operation in Tabogon and Medellin, Cebu from September 24 to 25 for the towns’ residents who have been hit hard by the pandemic. In an interview, the residents described the Caraga INFOCUS

serious impact the crisis has had on their lives by making it more difficult to find a job or earn a livelihood. Nevertheless, they expressed optimism that the opportunities would return once the crisis has passed. “Napakalaki ng naging epekto ng pandemya sa amin. Halos bawat pamilya dito ay nawalan ng trabaho. Minsan umaabot ng tatlong

“Bilang hardinero, mahirap kasi hindi ka makalabas ng bahay basta-basta. Dahil senior citizen ako, hindi ako makapagtrabaho kaya nagtanim nalang ako ng gulay para ilako sa mga kapitbahay. Pakiusap ko, sana matulungan ang mga trabahador na gaya ko dito sa Medellin na walang pinagkakakitaan ngayon,” added Benjamin Ipi, 62. The Senator’s team distributed meals, vitamins, masks, and face shields to a total of September 18-24, 2021 |

4,916 solo parents and persons with disabilities at the Tabogon municipal gym and 314 microentrepreneurs at the Barangay Poblacion covered court in Medellin. “Hindi po kayo pababayaan ng gobyernong palaging nagmamalasakit sa inyo. Ipaglalaban namin palagi ang kapakanan ng mga mahihirap lalo na yung mga wala nang matakbuhan. Magtulungan po tayo para masigurong walang maiiwan sa muling pagbangon ng ating bansa,” Go reiterated.

in Crisis Situation program and Sustainable Livelihood Program, respectively. The Department of Trade and Industry and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, on the other hand, committed to extend further aid upon completing their assessments to further alleviate their financial distress from the pandemic. “Maraming salamat po sa mga programa ng gobyerno. Bibigyan po kayo ng puhunan, tuturuan po kayong magnegosyo, at tutulungan kayong palaguin ito. Palaguin niyo po ang inyong negosyo at dalhin niyo po ang inyong kita sa inyong pamilya,” said Go.

Committee on Health, the Senator also offered to assist beneficiaries in need of medical care. He informed them that they may avail of medical assistance from the Malasakit Centers at the Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center and St. Anthony Mother & Child Hospital both in Cebu City, Talisay City District Hospital, LapuLapu City District Hospital, Eversley Childs Sanitarium and General Hospital in Mandaue City or Cebu Provincial Hospital in Carcar City.

First launched in Cebu City in 2018, the centers serve as a Selected beneficiaries one-stop shop for the received new pairs of medical assistance shoes while some were programs offered given bicycles for their by the government, daily commute. Others specifically the DSWD, were provided computer Department of Health, tablets so their children Philippine Health can study at home under Insurance Corporation, the blended learning “Alam niyo, mas masarap and Philippine Charity approach. ang pakiramdam Sweepstakes Office. kapag pinagpawisan The assistance covers In addition, the at pinaghirapan laboratories, medicines, Department of niyo po ang inyong surgeries and other Social Welfare and pagnenegosyo. patient services and Development provided Siguraduhin niyo lang po expenses. qualified beneficiaries na gamitin niyo ang pera with financial or livelihood sa tama,” he added. “Kung may assistance under its nararamdaman kayong Assistance to Individuals As Chair of the Senate sakit sa puso o ano man,

|September 18-24, 2021

Caraga INFOCUS

‘wag niyo na patagalin pa. Kadalasan ayaw ng mga Pilipino magpacheck-up dahil baka malaki ang gastusin sa ospital. Alam ko kung gaano ka hirap maging mahirap pero hindi niyo na kailangang magmakaawa para makahingi ng tulong sa gobyerno,” Go said in a video message. “At kung may pasyente na hindi kayang operahan diyan ay tutulungan namin kayo makapunta sa Maynila. Kami na ni Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte ang sasalo sa pampa-ospital ninyo pati pamasahe hanggang makauwi kayo,” he reassured. In the end, Go recognized various officials for their support for the administration’s Caraga INFOCUS

efforts to uplift the lives of Filipinos. Among these were 4th District Representative Janice Salimbangon, Governor Gwendolyn Garcia, Tabogon Mayor Zigfred Duterte and Vice Mayor Leonardo Arpon, and Medellin Mayor Joven Mondigo Jr. and Vice Mayor Juan Lim.

As Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, Go supported numerous infrastructure initiatives in Cebu. These include road improvements in Alcantara, Alcoy, Alegria, Asturias, Balamban, Boljoon, Borbon, Carmen, Madrilejos, Malabuyoc, Minglanilla, Moalboal, Pinamungahan, Sibonga, Sogod, Tabogon, Tabuelan, Carcar City and Naga City; construction of multipurpose buildings in Barili, Cordova, Ginatilan, Pilar, Tabogon, Cebu City and Talisay City; improvement of flood mitigation structures in Catmon and Tuburan; installation of street lights in Asturias, Compostela, and Daanbantayan; and acquisition of ambulance unit for Madrilejos and Naga City.

“Mga kaigsuonan na ko, magtinabangay lang ta. Kinahanglan nato ang kooperasyon sa matag usa. Sa mga gisunugan, ayaw mo kabalaka. On September 23, Go’s Magtinabangay lang ta,” team also provided ended Go. emergency assistance to 82 families who were (“Mga kapatid ko, affected by a fire in magtulungan lang tayo. Brgy. Sta. Cruz, Cebu Kailangan natin ang City. All activities were kooperasyon ng bawat carried out in batches isa. Sa mga nasunugan, and strict compliance huwag kayong magwith the health and alala. Magtulungan lang safety protocols against tayo.”) COVID-19.

September 18-24, 2021 |

Struggling communities in Leyte receive support from Bong Go as his team visits Jaro, Santa Fe, Pastrana, and Tacloban City to boost COVID-19 recovery efforts Senator Christopher “Bong” Go remained committed to support struggling communities amid the national health crisis as his team conducted another series of relief efforts in Jaro, Santa Fe, Pastrana, and Tacloban City in Leyte on Friday, September 24. Go’s staff organized four separate distribution activities at Jaro Cultural Center, Santa Fe Municipal Gymnasium, Pastrana

|September 18-24, 2021

Covered Court, and Brgy. 54-A Hall in Tacloban City where they catered to a total of 1,741 beneficiaries, mostly composed of persons with disabilities, solo parents, transport workers, out-of-school youth, and displaced workers. In his video message, Go appealed to the public to remain vigilant and compliant with necessary health precautions as there are growing numbers

of COVID-19 cases caused by the Delta variant. He then encouraged them to set aside their hesitancy and get inoculated immediately as soon as vaccines are rolled out in their area in order to attain population protection and herd immunity soon. “Marami ang nahihirapan, maraming nagsara na negosyo, maraming nawalan ng trabaho. Kaya ang kinakailangan, Caraga INFOCUS

kooperasyon at disiplina ng ating mga kababayan. Pakiusap lang, magtulungan lang tayo at mahalin natin ang ating kapwa,” Go expressed.

and Skills Development Authority conducted onsite evaluations wherein potential beneficiaries will be given livelihood and scholarship opportunities.

“Sa ngayon naman po, binabalanse po ng ating gobyerno ang buhay, kalusugan, at ekonomiya. Importante po sa amin ni Pangulong Duterte ang buhay ng bawat tao,” he added.

Lastly, the Department of Labor and Employment gave livelihood support to 241 beneficiaries from Jaro and Tacloban City through their Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers program.

Go’s team grouped the beneficiaries into smaller batches and proceeded to hand out meals, masks, face shields, and vitamins to each beneficiary. In addition, some residents received new pairs of shoes, computer tablets, and bicycles that they can use to conveniently travel to work or get their daily needs.

“Nagpapasalamat po ako sa mahal na Presidente at kay Senator Bong Go sa tulong na natanggap namin at sana po ay marami pa pong tulong na dumating sa amin, lalo na sa mga katulad ko na totally blind,” Simplecio Antonio, 61, shared in an interview.

In line with his pledge to As part of the give Filipinos affordable government’s commitment quality health care to help underprivileged services, Go mentioned in communities cope with his message that there are challenges caused by the five Malasakit Centers in pandemic, representatives the province that residents from the Department may visit if they need of Social Welfare and immediate medical care. Development gave the beneficiaries financial The center is a oneassistance. stop shop that provides convenient access to Meanwhile, the the medical assistance Department of Trade programs of concerned and Industry and the agencies, namely the Technical Education DSWD, Department of Caraga INFOCUS

Health, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstake Office. The centers are located at New Western Leyte Provincial Hospital in Baybay City; Eastern Visayas Regional Medical Center in Tacloban City; Ormoc District Hospital in Ormoc City; Leyte Provincial Hospital and Governor Benjamin T. Romualdez General Hospital and Schistosomiasis Center, both in Palo. “Mga kababayan ko, mayro’n na ho tayong 141 na Malasakit Center sa buong Pilipinas na handang tumulong po sa inyo. Tutulungan ho kayo hanggang maging zero balance po at wala na kayong babayaran sa inyong pagpapaospital. Lapitan n’yo lang po ang Malasakit Center, para po ‘yan sa Pilipino,” said Go. The Senator then commended the local leaders of each community for exerting great efforts and making sure that their constituents get the necessary support they need to help them recover from the struggles caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. September 18-24, 2021 |

“Kailangan pong magtulungan tayo, magbayanihan po tayo, at magmalasakit po tayo sa ating kapwa Pilipino,” said Go. “Salamat po sa inyong tulong sa panahong ito. Huwag n’yo pong pabayaan ang ating mga kababayang mahihirap po,” he ended. Go, who also serves as the Vice Chair of Senate Committee on Finance, supported several infrastructure initiatives to help boost the economic opportunities of the province, including the construction of a

|September 18-24, 2021

multi-purpose building in Brgy. Macanin in Jaro; construction of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (NDRRM) building in Brgy. Jones in Pastrana; installation of streetlights, and construction of a multipurpose building in Sta. Fe; and the construction of Tacloban Airport and installation of road studs in Tacloban City. Other projects the Senator supported in the province are the construction of multi-purpose buildings in Abuyog, Alangalang, Babatngon, Carigara, Dagami, Isabel, and La

Paz; rehabilitation of public markets in Inopacan, and Mahaplag; construction of farm-to-market roads in Hilongos, Javier, Macarthur, Matalom, Mayorga, and San Miguel; flood control protection works in Alangalang, Javier, Tanauan, and Tolosa; acquisition of multi-purpose vehicles in Burauen, and Tolosa; and acquisition of dump trucks in Inopacan, Isabel, and Villaba. Go’s outreach team also conducted similar distribution activities in the neighboring towns of Barugo, Tunga, Mayorga, Burauen, and Javier. Caraga INFOCUS

Unhampered public service delivery assured as Bong Go’s team helps indigent residents in Davao City facing hardships due to pandemic

As the COVID-19 crisis continues to disrupt the livelihoods of many Filipinos, an outreach team of Senator Christopher “Bong” Go provided aid to the residents of Davao City who are struggling to make ends meet. Go called on the government to strengthen its programs that can help low-income households be better equipped to overcome poverty and thrive in a video message at relief activities in Barangays Acacia and Sasa on Friday, September 24.

Caraga INFOCUS

“Huwag po natin pabayaan ang mga apektadong Pilipino na nangangailangan ng tulong. Malaking parte ng bumubuhay sa ating ekonomiya ang mga maliit na negosyo at manggagawa kaya tulungan natin silang buhayin ang kanilang negosyo at iahon ang kanilang mga sarili habang nasa panahon ng krisis ang ating bansa,” said Go. “Sa aking mga kababayan, ‘wag kayong mag-alala dahil malalampasan din natin ang pandemyang

ito basta’t nagtutulungan at nagmamalasakit tayo. Gagawin namin ang lahat ni Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte sa abot ng aming makakaya para tulungan kayo,” he reassured. His outreach team distributed meals, vitamins, masks and face shields to a total of 1,000 indigent residents at their respective barangay covered courts. The activities were held in small batches to ensure all health and safety protocols were strictly adhered to. Selected beneficiaries

September 18-24, 2021 |

received new pairs of shoes while others were given bicycles so they can easily commute. Another set was provided computer tablets so their children can better participate in their school activities while under the blended learning set-up. In addition, representatives of the Department of Social Welfare and Development were likewise present and distributed financial assistance to help alleviate the financial impacts of the pandemic. The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority offered training to qualified beneficiaries seeking to develop their skills in other sectors. The Department of Trade and Industry also conducted assessments of residents in need of livelihood support. The Senator, who heads the Senate Committee on Heath, offered further assistance to those in need of medical attention. He advised them to visit the Malasakit Center located at the Southern Philippines Medical Center which is open to serve all poor and indigent patients seeking to avail aid from the government. To streamline the processes for requesting medical assistance, the Malasakit Center brings together

|September 18-24, 2021

under one roof the offices of the DSWD, Department of Health, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. It seeks to reduce a hospital bill to the lowest possible amount by covering various patient services and expenses.

Licarte, among others.

The program was institutionalized under the Malasakit Centers Act, which Go principally authored and sponsored and President Duterte signed into law in December 2019.

Among these are the construction of various multi-purpose buildings and local roads; rehabilitation of water systems, drainage systems, and flood control structures in different barangays throughout the city; as well as the construction of a 300-bed capacity infectious diseases building and acquisition of ambulances, among others.

On this note, Go took the opportunity to express his gratitude to various officials for their ongoing commitment, dedication and service. He thanked 2nd District Representative Vincent Garcia, Mayor Sara Duterte, Vice Mayor Sebastian Duterte, Councilor Che-Che Justol, Acacia Punong Barangay Marlito Laran and Sasa Punong Barangay Jerry

As Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, he has supported an array of infrastructure initiatives to spur the economy, increase jobs, and create more services for the people of Davao City.

The previous day, September 23, Go’s team also conducted similar activities at the Mandug Gymnasium and Callawa Elementary School where they distributed aid to 1,000 residents.

Caraga INFOCUS

Over 43M Covid-19 doses administered in 6 months The Philippines has already administered 43,088,582 doses of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccines since the start of the national vaccination program in March. The National Task Force (NTF) Against Covid-19 reported on Friday that as of September 23, a total of 23,416,857 Filipinos are waiting to complete their full doses while 18,771,725 are already fully vaccinated, including the one-dose Johnson&Johnson jab. Data showed that of the total fully vaccinated individuals nationwide, 2,223,434 are health care workers (A1); 432,498, senior citizens (A2); 6,233,256 adults with comorbidities (A3); 5,165,883, essential front-liners (A4); and 1,720,654, indigents (A5). Among the first-dose

|September 18-24, 2021

FULL JAB. A medical front-liner administers the second dose of the Covid-19 vaccine at the Quezon City Hall on Friday (Sept. 24, 2021). A total of 23,416,857 Filipinos have completed their full doses as of September 23. (PNA photo by Rico H. Borja)

recipients are 2,529,340 from A1; 3,519,044, A2; 5,836,223, A3; 8,833,357, A4; and 2,698,893, A5. On Thursday alone, the government utilized 417,420 doses -- 117,401 first shots and 300,019 second doses. The average daily jabs administered in the last seven days slightly decreased to 367,105 doses, compared to 488,457 jabs during the

previous week. The Philippines has so far received 66,699,340 doses – procured, donated, and from the COVAX Facility. The NTF also wants to raise its target vaccination coverage from 70 percent to 90 percent of the country’s eligible population. (PNA/Lade Jean Kabagani) Caraga INFOCUS

NTF eyes mid-October vax rollout for 12-17 age bracket The National Task Force (NTF) against Covid-19 is proposing to open the vaccination campaign for minors aged 12 to 17 years old by midOctober. In his report during President Rodrigo Duterte’s Talk to the People on Wednesday night, NTF chief and vaccine czar Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. said the government can vaccinate about 12 million minors with the arrival of additional 20 million doses in the first week next month. This is on top of over 23 million shots in the stockpile, he added, which will be enough to vaccinate 12 million minors aged 12 to 17. Galvez, however, said minors with comorbidities and children of healthcare workers will be prioritized in the program. “So we are proposing, Mr. President, to open up the vaccination for children by mid of October,” Galvez said. The NTF and the government’s vaccine cluster are also readying the vaccination expansion to the general public. “We are also recommending na considering na malapit na po matapos ang ating vaccination target by December, by November po or even earlier, puwede

Caraga INFOCUS

VACCINATION OF MINORS. National Task Force (NTF) against Covid-2019 chief implementer Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. updates President Rodrigo Roa Duterte during a meeting with the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) core members in Davao City on Sept. 22, 2021. Galvez said the NTF is proposing to open the vaccination for minors aged 12 to 17 years old by mid of October. (Presidential photo by Roemari Lismonero)

na po nating i-open ang general public (We are also recommending that considering that we are nearly hitting our vaccination target by December, maybe we can open the vaccination for the general public by November or earlier than that),” Galvez said. Apart from the pediatric vaccination, he said, the government has also prepared for the opening of the limited face-to-face classes. “We will concentrate in fully vaccinating our teachers and school personnel,” he added. Galvez, meanwhile, cited the need to address vaccine

hesitancy by using strategies on the “family approach.” “If we will secure our family and secure our place of work, malaki po ang chances na bababa po ‘yung kaso natin (there’s a big chance to reduce our cases),” he said. Galvez also noted that vaccine hesitancy is seen in the far-flung areas among social classes D and E. As of Sept. 22, a total of 42,659,375 doses have already been administered nationwide, with 23,282,543 Filipinos received their first shots and 19,376,832 are fully vaccinated against the Covid-19. (PNA/Lade Jean Kabagani)

September 18-24, 2021 |

Purchase of Covid-19 supplies in adherence to Bayanihan 1: PRRD The Duterte administration complied with Republic Act 11469 or the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act (Bayanihan 1) when it procured emergency supplies at the start of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic in 2020, President Rodrigo Duterte said on Wednesday night. Duterte made the statement in his taped Talk to the People, as he defended anew the government’s purchase of Covid-19 medical supplies. “Para sa amin dito sa gobyerno, tapos na. Nagorder, na-deliver according to specifications, and then nagbayad tayo (For this government, we have already done our part. We ordered [the Covid-19 supplies, they were delivered, and then we paid). All [were done] in accordance with the guideline of the Bayanihan 1,” he said. Duterte lamented that the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, chaired by

|September 18-24, 2021

President Rodrigo Duterte (Screengrab from RTVM)

Senator Richard Gordon, is persistent in grilling the government over its decision to award Pharmally Pharmaceutical Corp. the PHP8.68 billion worth of contracts for the procurement of personal protective equipment (PPE) and testing kits. Citing RA 11469, Duterte said the government is allowed to procure medical supplies “in most expeditious manner” when Covid-19 hit the country last year. “What we followed was the emergency form of procurements stipulated

under the Bayanihan 1, passed by no less than some of the people questioning it today, which exempted us from these procedures so that we can buy the supplies,” Duterte said. Duterte added that Congress was aware of the provision in Bayanihan 1 which authorizes the government to buy emergency supplies without the need to comply with procurement laws. “Congress knew of its urgency. Alam nila kailangan na kailangan ang mga supplies, mga medical PPEs and everything to protect the

Caraga INFOCUS

front-liners, mga doctor, mga nurses. Alam nila na gaano kailangan na pabilisan (They knew that we really need the supplies, the medical PPE gears, and everything to protect the front-liners, doctors, and nurses. They know that we needed to act fast),” he said. RA 11469 exempts the government from complying with RA 9184 or the Government Procurement Reform Act and other procurement laws to give way for the immediate purchase of medical supplies such as PPE sets, face masks, and face shields, that will be given to public and private health facilities attending to the needs of Covid-19 patients. Failure to prove irregularities Despite the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee’s efforts to malign the government amid its lengthy hearings, it failed to prove that there were irregularities in the procurement of Covid-19 medical supplies, Duterte said. “After seven hearings of proving nothing -- no ghost deliveries, no illegal procedures -- the Senate blue Ribbon Committee continues to conduct their witch hunt,” he said.

Caraga INFOCUS

Duterte said it no longer came as a surprise that some senators were already tired of the “political circus” by members of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee who are trying hard to find fault with the government. “Now, only a few senators attended and even fewer were participating in the proceedings,” he said. “Clearly, even other committee members and other senators do not mention it in public, [but they] are starting to lose interest in its useless political circus. Some of the committee members are trying hard, but again, in vain to find fault [with] the procurement process.” Members of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, including Gordon, have questioned the government’s acquisition of PPE gears and other medical equipment at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic last year. Since the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee conducted a series of hearings, Duterte has engaged in a word war with Gordon. Duterte has also turned the tables on Gordon, who he said has committed irregularities as chairperson of the Philippine Red Cross (PRC).

‘Dual personality’ In his latest verbal tirades against Gordon, Duterte said the senator has a “dual personality” is “banned or prohibited by law.” Hence, Gordon needs to choose between being a senator or a PRC chair, Duterte said. “Under the law, you must give [up being] Red Cross [chairperson], kung gusto mong maging senador pa, o senador ka, hindi ka Red Cross (if you want to stay as a senator or you are a senator, but you are not a Red Cross chair). Pero para sa akin (But for me), you find two positions very lucrative,” he said. “I will insist that you give up one because you cannot be both.” Duterte said he would also make sure that Gordon will face a case before the Office of the Ombudsman because of the PRC chair’s supposed failure to use the humanitarian organization’s money “in the right way.” “Dapat noon pa, dinemanda ka na (A case should have been filed against you a long time ago),” he said. “So, I would like to inquire from the Ombudsman if there is a case filed against you.” (PNA/Ruth Abbey GitaCarlos)

September 18-24, 2021 |

EDITORIAL BOARD Executive Editor

ABNER M. CAGA Associate Editor

FRYAN E. ABKILAN Managing Editor

NORA CL MOLDE Copy Editor

VENUS LIM GARCIA Layout Artists

RONNIE E. MADANGUIT JOHN CHARLES B. MALAZARTE Contributors

JENNIFER P. GAITANO Agusan del Sur

NIDA GRACE B. TRANQUILAN Surigao del Sur

SUSIL D. RAGAS

Surigao del Norte/Dinagat Islands

DOREEN MARIELLE N. ROSALES Regional Office

RAYMOND SAMSON APLAYA ZENNY G. AWING FLORIAN FAITH JR. P. BAYAWA RUTH ABBEY GITA-CARLOS KRIS CRISMUNDO JOHN CUADRASAL MAJ. FRANCISCO GARELLO, JR. LADE JEAN KABAGANI SHENA MAE PABIA GREG TATARO, JR. YDHEIL ZAGADO DILG-CARAGA, PDRF, DBP, DA-CARAGA DPAO, 4ID, PA, 36IB, PA, NNC, CIO-BISLIG DXJS RP-TANDAG, DA-PRPD13 DTI-SURIGAO DEL NORTE PPA-PMO SURIGAO LGU AGUSAN DEL NORTE PNA, PND, MINDA

Business Managers

ZARINA O. LASTRA MARIESH F. CELEDEÑA MAY AMOR O. ALABADO Photographer

ROBESPIERRE C. TRADIO RUDOLF BONNIN E. SANICO

Regional Office Jose Rosales Avenue, Butuan City piacaraga@gmail.com; pia_caraga@yahoo.com.ph (085) 341-5285; (085) 815-1991 Philippine Information Agency Caraga @PIACaraga

Information Centers AGUSAN DEL NORTE Jose Rosales Avenue, Butuan City

(085) 815-1991

pia.northagusan@gmail.com

PIA Agusan del Norte

AGUSAN DEL SUR Provincial Government Center, Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur

0917-723-3455

pia.agusandelsur@yahoo.com.ph

PIA Agusan del Sur

SURIGAO DEL NORTE/DINAGAT ISLANDS Parrucho corner Magallanes St., Surigao City

(086) 826-9450

piasurigao@gmail.com

PIA Surigao del Norte; PIA Dinagat Islands

SURIGAO DEL SUR Old DPWH Bldg., Telaje, Tandag City (086) 211-3353 piasurigaosur@gmail.com; sds_pia@yahoo.com.ph PIA Surigao del Sur

Caraga InFocus – September 18-24, 2021

Articles inside

RESPECT FOR LAW AND GOVERNMENT RESTORED DURING DUTERTE’S LEADERSHIP

PCOO MULLS VIRTUAL MEDIA CONVENTION TO HIGHLIGHT BREAKTHROUGH ON NEWS DELIVERY AMID PANDEMIC

SECRETARY ANDANAR: PRO-POOR PROGRAMS AND POLICIES CONTRIBUTED TO HIGH SATISFACTION RATINGS OF PRESIDENT DUTERTE

HYBRID RICE GROWS IN UPLANDS OF MINDANAO

NEXT MALAMPAYA CAN BE FOUND IN MINDANAO: PNOC EC EXEC

ORYENTASYON SA SOLO PARENT WELFARE ACT UG MGA SERBISYO SA AGNOR, GIHIMO

PDRF, PAYMAYA LAUNCH DONATION CAMPAIGN AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE

FACILITIES FOR SEAWEED ENTERPRISE TO RISE IN DINAGAT ISLANDS

DTI CONDUCTS ENTREPRENEURIAL, SKILLS TRAINING IN SIARGAO ISLAND

PMO SURIGAO JOINS 3Q NATIONWIDE SIMULTANEOUS EARTHQUAKE DRILL

COVID-19 VACCINATION ROLLOUT SA LUNGSOD NG BISLIG, MAGPAPATULOY NGAYONG ARAW

LGU-FACILITY BASED QUARANTINE, HUGOT NGA GIREKOMENDAR SA PHO

OPISYAL NG DEPED BISLIG CITY DIVISION, INIHAYAG NA WALANG PAARALAN SA SURSUR NA KASALI SA IPAPATUPAD NA PILOT TESTING NG LIMITED FACE-TO-FACE CLASSES SA BANSA

‘RECOVERY ACTIVITY’ KONTRA ASF, NAKATAKDA NG SIMULAN SA SURSUR

RECOGNITION OF 1ST CITY OFFICIALS HIGHLIGHTS 21ST BISLIG CHARTER DAY

2 REBELS KILLED, HIGH-POWERED GUNS SEIZED IN SURSUR CLASH

PSA CARAGA CHIEF ENJOINS CARAGANONS TO SUPPORT THE QSPBI

RPOC-13 CONVENES FOR ITS 3RD QUARTER MEETING

SURSUR IP LEADERS DECLARE BAYAN MUNA SOLON ‘PERSONA NON-GRATA’

DBP EXTENDS P8.5-BILLION IN REHABILITATION AND RECOVERY FINANCING

AGSUR READIES IMPLEMENTATION OF TUTOK KAINAN PHASE-3

1221 ASPIRING CADETS TAKE PMA ENTRANCE EXAM IN CDOC, BAYUGAN CITY

DA, GO NEGOSYO, LBP NAGHIUSA SA PAGPALAMBO SA AGRIKULTURA SA PILIPINAS

PDRF CHAMPIONS INCLUSIVE, ACCESSIBLE COVID-19 VAX INFO FOR PWDS