CONTENTS
Caraga
Volume IV, No. 39 Sept. 19-25, 2020
INFOCUS
ARTICLES
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REGIONAL NEWS
Members, mass supporters abandon NPA terrorist movement in AgSur DA-NFA Caraga intensifies palay-buying for higher income of farmers DA Caraga gears up for a resilient bamboo industry BioCon: Agriculture’s natural defense
PROVINCIAL NEWS
AgSur villagers engage in poultry farming during pandemic
DENR to hold dialogue with concerned sectors on the fate of AgSur’s 300-year-old tree
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Army-LGU collaboration continues in fight vs insurgency AgNor solon House rep to bicam on ALS institutionalization 60 ex-rebels in AgNor receive financial aid from government ARB organizations sa Agusan del Norte patuloy na kumikita kahit may banta ng COVID19 Head of AgNor’s ‘Milisya ng Bayan’ yields to Army Army finds CNT hideout in Agnor; seizes ammos, supplies DTI Caraga coaches agrarian reform beneficiaries in adapting digital marketing SurSur IP leaders: We won the fight on quality education for IPs
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35 37 40 42 44 46 47
MINDANAO NEWS
MinDA, AMRECO forms advisory group for Mindanao electric woes Mindanao major recipient of ‘Build, Build, Build’ projects
NATIONAL NEWS
PCOO lauds House panel approval of bill on media workers’ welfare PCOO launches anti-narcotics docu sequel ‘Gramo Dos: Unipormado’ DSWD 88.7% complete in Listahanan assessment PH committed to reaching Sustainable Development Goals: PRRD Palace hails senators’ move to give PRRD authority vs. red tape
Duterte sure 2 nations won’t ask PH for vaccine reservation fee PRRD pushes for universal access to Covid-19 vaccine DOH recommends EO issuance to regulate Covid-19 swab tests costs DOH set to conduct pilot trial of antigen testing for Covid-19 More Covid-19 isolation facilities under Bayanihan 2: Dizon
COVER
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COVID-19 NEWS
RTF concurs granular lockdown in Butuan City, OKs Butuan-Cebu flight resumption By Amethyst Joy A. Galos
T
he Regional Task Force for COVID-19 One Caraga Shield (RTF-COCS) has approved the request of the city government of Butuan to place its 46 barangays under granular lockdown from September 11 to 25 due to the prevalence of local transmission across the city.
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| September 19-25, 2020
As of September 18, the city now Meanwhile, the task force also has a total of 492 cases, 318 of which gave a go signal for the resumption of limited commercial flights from are cases of local transmission. Butuan City to Cebu City and vice The implementation of the versa, effective immediately, through city’s granular lockdown follows the Resolution No. 71, series of 2020. Zoning Containment Strategy in the By virtue of the said resolution, localization of the National Action Plan (NAP) against COVID-19 Response. airline companies are now allowed Under the said strategy, areas are flights at the Bancasi Airport once a classified into four zones based on week on Tuesdays and Thursdays. This is seen to facilitate balancing of the set parameters: Critical Zone (CrZ), competing demands between local Containment Zone (CZ), Buffer Zone (BZ), health and economic recovery. and Areas outside Buffer Zones (OBZ). The parameters may be contained The body also passed Resolution in geographical units such as but not No. 70, Series of 2020, which requires limited to houses, residential buildings, the flight crew of airlines to present business/work establishments, markets, medical certificates issued by their streets, block, puroks, subdivisions/ respective company physicians as villages, or entire barangays whenever proof of their COVID-19-free status necessary, where the observed cases prior to their travel to and from Caraga are clustered. Region. With this, local government units are able to design and implement interventions that do not cause enormous strain to their local economy and people’s mobility and well-being.
To date, Caraga region now has a total of 902 confirmed cases, 396 of which are active, 479 have recovered, and 27 deaths. (NEDA Caraga/DMNR/ PIA-Caraga) September 19-25, 2020 |
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News Briefs The members of the Regional Committee for the Welfare of Children (RCWC) led by DSWD-Caraga convene for a virtual meeting and discuss and finalize the lined up activities for this year’s 28th National Children’s Month celebration. xx
(CSC ADVISORY) Per the mandates of Secs. 49 and 139 of CSC MC. No. 14 s. 2020, Human Resource Management Officers and/or those designated to perform HRM functions in any government owned/controlled corporations with original charters, local government units, department bureaus and agencies of the national government, universities and colleges, and local water districts are advised to be vigilant in ensuring that applicants to vacant positions in their agencies shall have acquired the relevant bachelor’s/master’s degree from CHED-accredited higher education institutions. Otherwise, the appointment shall be disapproved/invalidated for failure of the appointee to meet the qualification standards.
The DOH and DENR jointly organized a national level observance of World Environmental Health Day (WEHD) this year with the theme “Sa panahon ng pandemya, malusog na kapaligiran ang BIDA” (Environmental Health, A Key Public Health Intervention In Disease Pandemic Prevention).
Aside from recognizing the initiatives of the different local government units, employees were also recognized for their contribution and participation in good governance and exemplary practices during today’s 6th ANGELL Awarding Ceremony held in Butuan City.
REGIONAL NEWS
Members, mass supporters abandon NPA terrorist movement in AgSur By Major Francisco Garello, Jr.
Twenty-nine (29) Communist Party of the Philippines -New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) terrorist members, 80 Milisya ng Bayan (MBs) members, and 212 mass supporters have abandoned the CPPNPA Terrorist (CNT) movement in Esperanza, Agusan del Sur during the Peace Rally and Mass Withdrawal of support Ceremony on September 15, 2020 held at the Esperanza National High School Gymnasium, Barangay Poblacion, Esperanza, Agusan del Sur.
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| September 19-25, 2020
The former NPA members and the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) supporters have openly denounced through a march protest rally, the atrocities and continuous exploitation of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) of their communities. They expressed their sentiments against the CTG’s deception method and the continuous hardship they have brought to them.
Battalion under the operational control of the 402nd Infantry (Stingers) Brigade (402nd) facilitated the Signing of Manifesto entitled “Manipesto sa Among Pagbugto sa Pagka-miyembro sa Kalihukan sa CPP-NPA-NDF Organisasyong Masa ug Militar.” Mayor Manpatilan lamented the continuous threat brought about by the CNTs who sow fear by killing innocent civilians who refuse to support their movement in order to maintain control and influence in the communities. She also commended the courage and bravery of her constituents for coming back to the folds of the law and have now become peace partners of the government.
A total of 321 members and supporters of the CTG composed of 29 regular NPA members, 80 Milisya ng Bayan members, 12 supporters, 151 mass organization members, 23 contacts, and 26 couriers, all residents of Esperanza town have pledged allegiance to the government and vowed to eradicate the influence of the CTG in their communities. Fifteen members received financial assistance worth Php15,000.00 Guerilla Front (GF) 88, GF89 and each from the LGU of Esperanza while GF4B of North Central Mindanao the rest will still undergo validation. Regional Command (NCMRC) are the CTGs conducting agitation, organizing Meanwhile, Brigadier General and recruitment in the said municipality Maurito Licudine, 402nd Brigade to include extortion and threat. Commander, said the shift of support of the former members of the CNTs Since January 2020, a total of and its mass supporters were already 607 CNTs were already neutralized anticipated due to the strong advocacy (killed, apprehended or surrendered) of the Local Government Unit (LGU) thru combat operations, joint law of Esperanza led by their Municipal enforcement operations and the Mayor in facilitating the Whole of Community Support Program of the Nation Approach convergence to government. address the insurgency problem in their municipality. The Municipal Task Force in Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict “Local Chief Executives need to spearheaded by Mayor Leonida rise up and be the voice of their people Manpatilan through the efforts of the in addressing this menace plaguing our Community Support Teams (CSTs) communities for several decades. We of the 26th Infantry (Ever Onward) are fortunate that Mayor Manpatilan September 19-25, 2020 |
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and Vice Mayor Siohan together with their Sangguniang Members have joined hands with the security sector and recognized that only in an environment of peace that use can realize peaceful and progressive communities,” BGen. Licudine said. “We call on the other Local Chief Executives to strengthen their resolve to fight these terrorists. Much is expected from our local leaders as they are the key element in leading their respective constituents in driving away the communist terrorist from their communities. Together let’s fight these pests who hamper the socioeconomic development potentials of
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| September 19-25, 2020
communities for the past decades,” added Licudine. BGen. Licudine also encouraged remaining members of the CTG to surrender and avail the E-CLIP that can provide opportunities for them to start a new life. Also in attendance in full support to the activity of the MTF ELCAC were Governor Santiago Cane, Jr., Lt. Col. Reynald Romel A Goce, 26IB commanding officer, and Datu Carlos “Balubaguio” Otacan, the Municipal IP Mandatory Representative of EADS. (CMO, 402nd Brigade)
DA-NFA Caraga intensifies palay-buying for higher income of farmers
Farmers nowadays need not be at the mercy of private traders offering low buying of palay. Anchored on the twin goal of the Department of Agriculture, the Masaganang Ani at Mataasna Kita, the National Food Authority (NFA) Caraga is beefing up its procurement of palay (unhusked rice) from the farmers as an option for farmers to enjoy the good
price. During the Grains Monitoring Team Meeting held last Friday at the DA Regional Office, NFA Regional Director Beverly P. Peralta said that based on their monitoring, private traders are September 19-25, 2020 |
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buying from the farmers at an average price of P14.63 per kilo for fresh harvest and P16.95 per kilo for clean and dry. September to October is the peak season of the rice harvest in the region, thus they are mobilizing all its warehouses to accommodate farmers who opted to sell their produce to them.
City; Alegria, San Francisco, Bayugan City, and Trento for Agusan del Sur; Tandag City, Bislig, and Cantilan for Surigao del Sur; Surigao City, and Dapa, Siargao Island for Surigao del Norte; and at San Jose for the Province of Dinagat Islands and a mobile buying station at Brgy. Malicato, Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte.
“Our buying price is way ahead from private traders, as we are offering P19.00 per kilo clean and dry,” said Director Peralta.
For the current year, DA-NFA Caraga is targeting to purchase a total of 200,000 bags of palay from Caraga Region farmers.
Contrary to what some farmers are saying that NFA is buying only dried palay, Director Peralta said that NFA is also accommodating fresh and wet palay but with a price slightly lower than P19 but higher than what traders are offering. NFA is also taking the extra mile in helping the farmers by offering a transport truck to haul the produce of the farmers.
The Grains Monitoring Team convened last Friday to address recent issues on low buying price of palay and come up with immediate measures to help the farmers.
“I ask for everybody’s cooperation and with this meeting, come up with recommendation to cushion the impact of falling rice prices,” DACaraga Regional Executive Director “We are doing what we are Abel James I. Monteagudo said. mandated to do. We are here to help buy the farmers produce for our buffer The meeting was also attended by stocking. We have mechanical dryers the DA-Operations group and farmer in all the provinces which farmers leaders who are also members of the may avail of at a minimal fee. We GMT. also welcome walk-in clients in our warehouses,” said Peralta. According to DA-RTD for Operations Rebecca R. Atega, there “They just have to contact us prior are also partner Rice Processing so we may arrange a truck to help haul Centers in the region that caters to their products into our warehouses,” buying farmers’ products and dryers she added. provided by the DA in the different farmers’ groups in the municipalities DA-NFA Caraga warehouses that which farmers can avail of. (RAFIS/DAserved as palay buying stations are Caraga/PIA Caraga) situated at Brgy. Libertad for Butuan
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| September 19-25, 2020
DA Caraga gears up for a resilient bamboo industry
Joining the rest of the world in celebrating World Bamboo Day, the Department of Agriculture – Caraga conducted a ceremonial bamboo planting headed by Regional Executive Director Abel James I. Monteagudo, Regional Technical Director Nicandro M. Navia, Jr. and OIC-Regional Technical Director Rebecca R. Atega at the Del Monte Lowland Rainfed Research Station (DMLRRS) on Wednesday, September 16. The activity is also in accordance with Resolution No.197 of the 18th Congress that declared September as Bamboo Month in the Philippines. The resolution seeks to promote the importance of bamboo in the daily lives
of the Filipinos by recognizing its many uses. Further, the resolution also aims to encourage government agencies as well as the Local Government Units to plant bamboo in suitable areas within their jurisdiction. September 19-25, 2020 |
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The bamboo planting activity is also inline with the pursuit of the Department of Agriculture to promote bamboo and develop the bamboo industry in the country. In February of this year, DA Secretary William D. Dar declared bamboo as a high-value crop to intensify its promotion. In a statement, Secretary Dar said that the DA’s new agri-industrial strategy does not only look at enhancing farm productivity, but also on developing more value-added products to further empower farmers by providing them with more business and employment opportunities, and eventually additional income. Aside from food products, bamboo is also used for construction, furniture, handicraft industry, fuel, textiles, and the arts Ecologically, compared to other trees, bamboo absorbs two times more carbon dioxide which is essential for the survival, growth, and reproduction of living things. Bamboo plants also have strong roots which make it quite useful in preventing soil erosion. In Caraga, aside from the ceremonial planting of bamboo, the DMLRRS is targeting to produce 1,000 pieces of bamboo planting materials that will be distributed to interested to have the planting materials ready farmers. by next month and start the distribution so that more people can plant and DMLRRS Officer in Charge Caraga will soon abound with bamboo. Catherine Juyno said that they hope (DA Caraga/PIA Caraga)
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BioCon: Agriculture’s natural defense Kent Warren Fugoso
Pests can be annoying oftentimes. It destroys the habitat of other organisms as well as its natural resources leading to the destruction of food and shelter to native species in a certain area. However, this can be restricted, through the use of available pest control techniques in different approaches. With its goal to strengthen the crop protection through biological, ecological, and human resource development approach, the Regional Crop Protection Center (RCPC) established in the year 2015, under the Department of Agriculture – Caraga Integrated Laboratory Division (ILD), in the municipality of Trento, Agusan del Sur, applied a strategy that uses biological pest control technique, which is less costly and cheaper than any methods of Integrated Pest Management to give protection to the crop, safer to the environment, multiply easily in the soil and leaving no residual problem.
clinic for crop pests and disease, giving technical assistance to target farmers. Science Research Specialist II of RCPC ILD Trento, Maricel Didal, stressed the importance of biological control agents (BCAs) that it must be introduced to the larger scope of farmers in the region as it is considered as the best alternative to pesticides, efficient and safe for human and also its environment, and most especially beneficial action for parasitoid, pathogen, and predators in managing pest and their damage.
“We have four laboratories for the mass production of biological control The RCPC prompted this agents such as Metarhizium anisopliae, initiative anchoring to its objective Trichogramma sp., Trichoderma sp., which is to develop, promote, and and Earwig,” said Didal. implement sustainable biological control technologies. Generating pest Metarhizium anisopliae is an management strategies through the entomopathogenic fungus that controls Local Government Units (LGUs) which the population of Rice black bug (RBB), are adopted directly to the field of every locust, mosquitoes, soil termites, to farmer. Also, this serves as a diagnostic name a few. It was reported to infect September 19-25, 2020 |
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approximately 200 species of insects Chelisoches are active at all times of and other arthropods. The rate of the day, running over leaves in search application of Metarhizium is 50 packs of food. or 200 grams per pack per hectare. These four biological control Moreover, Trichogramma sp. is a agents are distributed to the different genus of minute polyphagous wasps provinces of the region for free to the that controls the population corn’s farmers as facilitated by the Provincial most prevalent enemy, the corn borer. and Municipal LGUs. RCPC also caters The wasp larvae kill pests before they walk-in clients and request through damage plants by consuming their formal letter. eggs. They are shipped while still parasitized in the host eggs. “Since 2015, we have been giving free BCAs to multiple recipients already Trichoderma sp. is one of the most through our partner LGUs. They will be common fungal antagonists which the one to facilitate on giving BCAs to have a high competitive ability and farmer-cooperators or associations,” capacity to produce a broad spectrum Didal added. of antibiotics. It is also a good source of cellulose, a natural agent that hastens Reaching a wider scope, RCPC the decomposition of plants and other welcome organizations, associations, organic materials. For its application, and farmers who voluntarily go to the 30-100 g. diluted to 10 liters of water Center for training about BCAs, and and drench per tree for moist soil and LGUs who are willing to establish their 30-100 g. diluted to 15L of water and village level laboratory for faster and drench per tree for dried soil. bigger mass production of BioCon. Further, earwig has two cultured species namely Euborellia annulata, a potential predator also of corn borer, and Chelisoches morio, a potential predator of coconut lead beetle and Brontispa longissima. Euborella annulata are elongated and flattened insects with mobile and telescopic abdomen extended in a pair of forceps. Effective in searching prey, climbing the corn plants at night and frequently feeding pray on the proximal part of the leaves. Meanwhile, Chelisoches morio is a wingless organism that has large posterior pincers. Unlike Euborella,
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“PLGU Surigao del Sur already created their laboratory situated at the Provincial Agriculture Office. They have been producing since, benefiting their farmers,” Didal said. Conservation wise, biological control agents are not just mere organisms that exist with no good effect in agriculture, landscapes, and forests however “it tells us otherwise for its costeffective, self-sustaining technique of managing pests that invade our plants and their natural habitat,” she added. Indeed, nature’s gift for defense. (DA13RAFIS/PIA Caraga)
PROVINCIAL NEWS
AgSur villagers engage in poultry farming during pandemic By Jennifer P. Gaitano
Apart from backyard gardening, the residents in the municipality of Esperanza in Agusan del Sur are now engaging also in raising chickens and poultry farm business to support their livelihood especially during this time of the pandemic. Under the free-range chicken project of the provincial veterinary office, farmers in the area are among the sectors benefiting from it.
Contributed photo
“There are 11 participants or recipients per barangay who will receive five chicken each. So, a total of 1,300 chickens will be given to the barangays,” Calo bared.
“This is really a big help for us especially during this time of the Dr. Lovely Leah Sanggalang of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Crecencio Provincial Veterinary Office revealed Desire, farmer-beneficiary. that this project aims to provide a sustainable livelihood to the residents “I’m thankful because this is really and to help uplift their lives through a a big help to support the daily needs gainful source of income. of our family,” added another farmerbeneficiary Aurelia Salingay. Meanwhile, the Municipal Agriculture Office also ensures locals According to Veterinarian that their office is ready to assist them Premo Calo, more than 20 barangays and provides measures to keep their of Esperanza are taking the best chickens in good condition. (JPG/PIAadvantage out of this project. Agusan del Sur)
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DENR to hold dialogue with concerned sectors on the fate of AgSur’s 300-year-old tree By Jennifer P. Gaitano
A place with natural resources abound, the province of Agusan del Sur became one of the tourist destinations that is usually visited by backpackers to explore the 300-year-old Philippine Rosewood Tree which is known to the locals as “Toog Tree” situated in the municipality of San Francisco. This towering 54-meter Toog tree is considered the tallest and the oldest tree in the country. However, residents nearby are more concerned over the risk it constitutes especially during earthquakes, as the giant centuriesold tree was discovered to have holes inside its trunk. “We are very thankful that this Toog tree will soon be cut especially that our house is just a few distance from here. During the latest earthquake that we experienced, if it had lasted longer, it’s really risky. The other toog tree was even uprooted, how much more this oldest Toog tree which has already holes on its trunk,” said a concerned local resident.
Contributed photo
According to Bunawan, Agusan del Sur CENRO Jerome Albia, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Caraga has issued the clearance to cut last year after the result of the conducted September 19-25, 2020 |
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research by the experts has proved that the heritage tree poses danger to the locals due to the deterioration of this hardwood specie, with a rating of 5.4 based on biochemical and structural analysis, which means to be of high potential hazard.
were also other sectoral groups that pushed for the conservation of the Toog Tree as it is part of the rich culture, legacy and heritage of Agusan del Sur. “During the issuance of the permit to cut, there were groups who opposed and expressed that the Toog Tree should be saved and preserved,” he “The research team was there and said. they conducted the bio-mechanical structural analysis last year in July. So Meanwhile, come September that’s the very reason why the DENR 25, 2020, the LGU-San Francisco, regional director issued the clearance together with the DENR and other to cut because of the recommendation sectors will convene for a consultation of the research that it posed high risk to and dialogue before making a finality the Toog tree,” bared Albia. of decision to cut the eco-tourism landmark or to consider other options CENRO Albia added that there to save it. (JPG/PIA-Agusan del Sur)
Army-LGU collaboration continues in fight vs insurgency 1Lt. Percivl Carido
The municipality of San Luis, Agusan del Sur, together with the Army’s 26th Infantry (Ever Onward) Battalion continues its collaboration in fighting insurgency during the conduct of Municipal Peace and Order Council (MPOC) Meeting on September 17, 2020 at the municipal conference room. To ensure the alignment of efforts between the military and LGU for the past months in ending the local communist armed conflict, both have shared and discussed the actions conducted to fulfill the said endeavor.
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According to Charles V. Lim, the Municipal Local Government Operations Officer (MLGOO), the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) has focused on giving basic services on Conflict-Affected Areas
(ConAAs) and Geographically Isolated barangays in order to counter the issues and propaganda that are being used and uttered by the Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) in organizing and recruiting the locals to utilize them on CNT activities. “During our immersion, besides on giving basic services to the locals, we also assisted the barangay councils on drafting the Barangay Development Plan of every affected barangay, and we prioritized on depicting their primary concerns on the said plan for endorsement to the national government and fund allotment next year,” Lim said. Likewise, Municipal Mayor Phoebe L. Corvera, once again embarked on her commitment to support the military especially on providing the essential needs and morale to the troops of 26IB. “As per EO70, we will be your partner on your intensified effort to defeat the communist insurgency in the area.
For that, we will also exert more effort in order to address the root cause of insurgency in our municipality in order to pave the way for development especially on far-flung areas,” she said. Relatively, Lt. Col. Reynald Romel A. Goce, commanding officer of 26IB, appreciated the untiring support of LGU San Luis to the unit. He also emphasized the importance of unity among the line agencies in fighting the communist insurgents in the area. “Insurgency is not a mere responsibility of the military. We cannot address the needed programs and projects of the populace in which if not given attention, it will be used by the CNT to undermine the government to the people,” he stated. “With your help, we will continue to put pressure on the CNT because this will entice more surrenders and finally defeat the insurgency problem in our area,” added Goce. (CMO, 26IB/PIAAgusan del Sur) September 19-25, 2020 |
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AgNor solon House rep to bicam on ALS institutionalization Representative Lawrence “Law” Fortun of the 1st district of Agusan del Norte was recently designated as House representative to the Bicameral (Bicam) Conference Committee on the institutionalization of the Alternative Learning System (ALS). The bicam, which is composed of selected legislators from the House of Representatives and the Senate, is tasked to thresh out differing provisions contained in the approved House version, House Bill (HB) No. 6910, and approved Senate version, Senate Bill No. 1365, and come up with a unified version that will be transmitted to the President for approval. As the principal author of House Bill No. 5145, one of the bills that was consolidated into HB 6910, Rep. Fortun emphasized the importance of institutionalizing the ALS in order to provide a viable option, other than the formal mode of instruction, to a great number of Filipinos that do not have access to formal basic education by reasons of poverty and lack of access to schools.
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| September 19-25, 2020
“The ALS will be among our tools to democratize access to education in order to empower our out-ofschool children and youth, indigent adults, indigenous peoples, and other marginalized sectors to become productive partners for nationbuilding,” Rep. Fortun said. Among the salient provisions of HB 6910 are the strengthening of NonFormal Education Programs, such as the Basic Literacy Program and Continuing Education Program; creation of the Bureau of Alternative and Lifelong Education under the Department of Education; hiring of ALS teachers; and the establishment of ALS Community Learning Centers in every municipality and city. (Lawig Katawhan/PIA Agusan del Norte)
60 ex-rebels in AgNor receive financial aid from government By Jennifer P. Gaitano
Agusan del Norte Governor Dale Corvera, together with representative Maria Angelica Rosedelle Amante-Matba and chief of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-Caraga, handed over the P20,000 financial aid to each of the 60 former rebels who surrendered to the government’s fold. Governor Corvera expressed that despite limited funds given to the former rebels, this could already help them start a new journey as they intend to live a normal life in the mainstream society and start a livelihood for their
family. “Utilize this money properly, do not just spend it on unnecessary things. Make sure that your family would also benefit from the financial assistance September 19-25, 2020 |
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given to you,” said Corvera.
the government and would no longer return to the Communist Terrorist Group In addition to the cash benefits, (CTG) movement. the FRs’ dependents would also be given scholarship slots. This is apart from Meanwhile, alias Louie, one of the the housing program which will also be FR-beneficiaries was thankful to have provided to them. received the financial assistance. He said the government has been true to “We have started purchasing the its promise and commitment to take needed materials which will be used care of them when they surrender. to construct your houses in Sitio Bulak,” Corvera bared. “The government has not failed us. We may have failed in our Agusan del Norte board member dreams before, but now we did not Elizabeth Calo stressed the need fail in our intention to surrender to the to extend assistance to the former government,” said alias Louie. (JPG/ rebels who felt the real concern of NCL/PIA-Caraga)
ARB organizations sa Agusan del Norte patuloy na kumikita kahit may banta ng COVID19 By Nora C. Lanuza
Hindi lahat apektado ang kita dahil sa coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, sa probinsya ng Agusan del Norte, patuloy na kumikita ang mga agrarian reform beneificiaries organizations o ARBOs kahit paman may banta ng COVID-19. Sa tulong ng Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) ng Agusan del Norte, ang mga ARBOs sa probinsya patuloy na kumikita kahit mahigpit ang pagbibiyahe ng kanilang mga produkto. Binigyan sila ng mga
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| September 19-25, 2020
accreditation pass ng DAR upang madala ang kanilang produkto sa pamilihan, dahil naniniwala ang DAR na ang mga magsasaka ay kabilang din sa mga frontliners sa pagbibigay ng sapat na pagkain sa mga mamamayan.
Ayon kay Rodrigo Bitancor, PARPO I ng DAR Agusan del Norte, dahil sa binigay na quarantine pass ng DAR, patuloy at mas pinadali ang pagabot ng mga produkto sa merkado.
(ABFMC) sa lungsod ng Cabadbaran na apektado sila sa hirap ng buhay dahil sa pandemya, ngunit dahil nagtulongtulong sila bilang isang grupo, nilabanan nila ang hirap na dulot nito. Sa ngayon ang kanilang kooperatiba ay kumikita dahil sa kanilang libo-libong sako ng bigas na sinusuplay sa iba’t ibang lugar at sila na rin ang nag-susuplay mismo sa lungsod ng Cabadbaran.
Kagaya nalang ng San Isidro Upland Farmers Multi-Purpose Cooperative (SIUFMULCO) sa bayan ng Santiago, patuloy ang kita nila at umabot pa ang gross sales nito ng mahigit 37 million peso sa abaca Ayon din kay Ellen Torralba ng fiber na edeniliver sa Baybay, Leyte DAR Agusan del Norte, siniguro din nila kamakailan lang. na masosold-out ang mga produkto ng mga magsasaka ng iba’t ibang a-r-b Aminado din si Sergio Baguhin ang organizations ng probinsya kagaya chairman ng Avanceùa Beneficiaries ng gulay, bigas at iba pa. (NCLM/PIA Farmers Multi-Purpose Cooperative Agusan del Norte) September 19-25, 2020 |
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Head of AgNor’s ‘Milisya ng Bayan’ yields to Army By 1Lt. Roel T. Maglalang
The head of the Sangay ng Partido sa Lokalidad (SPL) and Milisya ng Bayan (MB) in Agusan del Norte surrendered to the troops of the 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion (23rd IB), Philippine Army on September 16, 2020, at around 9:50am. The MB head identified as “Rico,” 28, was operating in Barangay Durian, Las Nieves town under the Guerrilla Front (GF) 4A of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) of the New People’s Army (NPA). Alias Rico voluntarily surrendered to Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, the commander of 23rd IB at the battalion headquarters in Jamboree Site, Purok 6, Barangay Alubihid, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.
Radio, two (2) assorted Andriod phones, seven (7) assorted keypad phones, two (2) gun tuckers and assorted receipts. He also revealed that the Honda motorcycle is owned by Khim Agad Mapoy @PATRICK, the Secretary of GF4A, NCMRC.
During the interview, “Rico” said that being an MB of the Communist NPA Terrorist (CNT), he was tasked to keep the gears, equipment, firearms He also turned over to the 23rd and personal belongings of the CNT IB one (1) Honda XRM 125 Motorcycle, members inside his residence. He one (1) ACER Laptop, one (1) Baofeng added that keeping such belongings
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| September 19-25, 2020
had risked and put into danger the lives of his family members. He admitted of living in fear as he is already known in their community as a supporter and the keeper of CNT belongings.
sa pagpalusot sa ilang bugas ug mga supplies ug mangitag ka plastaran nila nga kampo, Ang nakapait pa kay sa sinako nga bugas nga akong ihatod sa kampo, maayo nalang ug mahatagan ko ug lima (5) ka salmon. Ila pang ibilin It can be recalled that the residents ug itago ang ilang mga gamit s among and the members of the council in balay ug mahadlok ko nga masakpan Barangay Durian already declared sa otoridad,” “Rico” said. the CPP-NPA-NDF and all its allied organizations as persona non grata Lt. Col. Paulo was grateful for last November 6, 2019. The declaration “Rico’s” realization which led to his showed the will of the people to get decision to return to the folds of the rid of the presence of the CNTs in their law. community. On December 4, 2019, a young NPA combatant died during “I am glad that the SPL/CO MB in an encounter between the 23rd IB Barangay Durian now returned to the troopers and the CNTs in Sitio San Jose, folds of the law and I am grateful for his Durian. Series of peace consultations decision to surrender because through and dialogues were also facilitated in this, the CNT activities will also be the said barangay where the residents neutralized in their community,” Paulo and the council requested the Army said. for the establishment of a patrol base in their community to neutralize the He emphasized that the surrender CNT members. Through the joint efforts of “Rico” indicates that the government of the 23rd IB and the members of the is winning the war without the use of barangay council, “Rico” finally realized arms and violence. that he was not on the right path and voluntarily surrendered to the Army. “We don’t want the residents “Rico” also admitted that he is already of Barangay Durian to once again tired of giving support to the CNTs and experience armed conflict because it he also wanted to clear his name. only brought senseless deaths, miseries and destroyed the future of the people. “Nibalik ko sa sabakan sa Hence, we will ensure his personal balaod kay gusto nako hinluan akong safety and well-being as he returns to pangalan kay gibantog na gyud ko the folds of the law,” Paulo said. sa among lugar nga usa ka full time NPA, pero ang tinuod, usa lang ko ka The 23rd IB commander is also MB busa wala ko mahadlok nga mo seeing the decline of the atrocities of dangop sa kasundaluhan. Gawas pa the CNTs in the area, such as extortion ana, gikapoy na ko sulod sa halos tulo and recruitment because of the loss of (3) ka tuig nga nagpaulipon nako sa their trusted MB leader. (CMO Officer, walhong grupo. Ako ang ilang sugoon 23IB, 4ID, PA/PIA Agusan del Norte) September 19-25, 2020 |
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Army finds CNT hideout in Agnor; seizes ammos, supplies 1Lt. Roel T. Maglalang
Troopers of the 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion (23rd IB), Philippine Army discovered a Communist New People’s Army Terrorists’ (CNTs’) hideout in the hinterlands of Barangay Amparo, Butuan City on the evening of September 17, 2020 after conducting a follow-up operation based on the information provided by Alias DANSOY/KEVIN, the Political Instructor (PI) of Sentro De Gravidad CAOCAO, Guerilla Front-4A, North Central Mindanao Regional Command. It can be recalled that Alias DANSOY/KEVIN surrendered to 23rd IB on the same date. The discovered hideout has an estimated land area of three hundred square meters (300m2) which can accommodate more or less 28 persons. It was abandoned a few hours prior to discovery.
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one Motorcycle (SKYGO), 314 rounds of live ammunition of Ctg Cal .30, Carbine; 54 rounds of live ammunition of Ctg 5.56mm, M16 Rifle; four rounds of live ammunition of Ctg 7.62mm, M14 Rifle, one long magazine for M16 Rifle; one short magazine for M16 Rifle; three Short Magazines for Cal .30, Carbine, one round of live ammunition of Ctg Seized from the said hideout were 40mm, HE M203 GL, one short magazine
| September 19-25, 2020
for cal. .30, Carbine; six blasting caps; one handheld radio (Baofeng), three batteries for handheld radio (Baofeng); one charger for handheld radio (Baofeng); three antennas for handheld radio (Baofeng); three USB connectors; 17 pieces sim cards; two memory adaptors; two chargers for cellular phone; one rubber duck; three civilian bag packs; one jungle hammock; five tents; assorted medical supplies; assorted clothing; one-half (½) sack of rice; and subversive documents. Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, Commander of 23IB expressed gratitude to the former rebel (FR) who provided the positive information to the unit. “Through the active cooperation of the FR who recently surrendered to our unit, we have located the CNT hideout and probably foil their hostile plans in the community. We now have two best reliable sources of positive information -- the weary civilian populace and the FRs,” Paulo said. He also emphasized that the CNTs no longer have a place to hide as the civilians are now are showing their full support to the government particularly to the Army and the police. “No matter where these CNTs will hide, we will still locate them and we will continue to pursue them because we know that they are just around the area,” Paulo said. He again urged the remaining and tired CNT members in Agusan del Norte
to listen to the call of the government and take hold of the opportunity being offered to them. “Come down, lay down your arms, and avail of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) of the government. But, if you will not heed to our call, then we will never hesitate to use our force to neutralize you for the benefit of the Filipino people who longed to live peacefully,” Paulo said. (CMO Officer, 23IB, 4ID, PA/PIA Agusan del Norte) September 19-25, 2020 |
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DTI Caraga coaches agrarian reform beneficiaries in adapting digital marketing
A series of seminars preparing micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) transition to digital media have been conducted by the Department of Trade and Industry - Agusan del Norte (DTI-AdN) here to its assisted Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Organizations (ARBOs) under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) for July and August 2020. Nine ARBOs from the municipalities the said seminar. of Buenavista, Nasipit, Jabonga, Santiago and Las Nieves, including four The recipients were the Manapa ARBOs in Butuan City participated in ARB and Community Coop of Manapa,
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| September 19-25, 2020
Buenavista on July 3, De Oro ARP Coop of Butuan City on July 10, Culit MPC of Nasipt on July 9, Palmavera Small Coconut Farmers Beneficiaries Coop of Las Nieves and Libas MPC of Jabonga on August 11-13. It can be recalled that last August 18, the DTI-CARP AdN invited Agrikultura Shop Online represented by Djon Scottie Amoc to orient and bring on board Butuanon ARBOs in their online marketplace during a meeting in Brgy. Sto Niño, Butuan City. This was attended by the Sto. Niño MPC, Duque ARB Cooperative and Taguibo MPC. A separate schedule for RIC Tagbuyacan was held last August 20 to complete the month’s target.
and organic beverages like turmeric and salabat. They are now starting to onboard their products to their own online marketing platforms they created.
DTI-CARP AdN encouraged their ARBOpreneurs to cope with the current changes in doing business forced by COVID-19 through e-commerce to advertise one’s product and generate The seminars reportedly provided sales without doing it physically. additional lessons about various “There are many simple and free technology tools other than digital methods MSMEs here in the Philippines marketing that the ARBOs may integrate can do. One, which also serves as a to their operation. stepping stone in understanding more Some of those mentioned were E-business is making borderless market through Facebook (FB)-the most popular e-payments, online advertising, online social media application which is now productivity tools, logistics and many used also as an e-marketing platform,” more. DTI-CARP AdN further explained. Along with the learnings taught, The mentioned ARBOs sell various DTI-CARP AdN also provided the food and non-food products such participants with a prepaid wifi modem as lumpia, coconut oil, ube powder, to help them eventually start their organic rice, personal protective e-marketing operations. (DTI-Caraga/ equipment and coco peat fertilizer DTI-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Caraga) September 19-25, 2020 |
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SurSur IP leaders: We won the fight on quality education for IPs By Lt. Krisjuper Andreo Punsalan
Contributed photo
“We won the fight on having [access to] quality education.” Lianga Indigenous People Mandatory Representative (IPMR) Hawudon Jumar Bucales and Lianga tribal chieftain Datu Constancio Duhac both said during the inauguration ceremony of the two Department of Education (DepEd) Schools of Living Traditions (SLT) on September 16, 2020.
closed non-DepEd accredited schools Tribal Filipino Program in Surigao del Sur (TRIFPSS) and Alternative Learning Center for Agricultural and Livelihood Development, Inc. (ALCADEV), which are allegedly linked with the communistterrorist group, National Peoples’ Army (NPA).
The schools, located at Sitio Simowao, Diatagon village in Lianga town and Sitio Lucnodon, Brgy. Mahaba in Marihatag town, will replace the now-
Lianga town native and Makabayan bloc Bayan Muna representative Eufemia Cullamat has opposed the establishment of DepEd
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| September 19-25, 2020
accredited IP schools, accusing the government, particularly the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), of depriving the education of the IPs upon the closure of both schools. Rep. Cullamat has also discredited the military’s Community Support Program (CSP) in the IP communities during the budget hearing in Congress.
group in the province. During the ceremony, BGen. Allan Hambala of the 401st Infantry Brigade said that the closure of the non-DepEd schools were in response to the resolutions of IP leaders, local government units (LGUs), and even the former rebels (FRs) who attended the said schools.
Surigao Sur IP leaders, however, have been vocal in their support to the NTF-ELCAC, and have lambasted Cullamat and her cohorts and identified them as coddlers of NPAs.
“The focus of our community support program in the communities is to identify the primary and secondary issues of the IPs so that the government will know how to help them. One of these is access to quality IP education, “When the government addresses which is now being addressed by the the root causes of insurgency and RTF-ELCAC.” confronts the NPAs through combat operations, they oppose. But when Meanwhile, 3rd Special Forces it comes to NPA’s killings of innocent “Arrowhead” Battalion Commander IP leaders and members, they have Lt. Col. Joey Baybayan on his message remained quiet. Cullamat and the emphasized how to counter terrorism Makabayan bloc simply [wants to] through education. cover up the NPAs and discredit the government that is enforcing the laws “The best weapon we can use to against NPAs,” Datu Rico Maca, IPMR counter terrorism is to teach the children of San Miguel town said. the genuine essence of peace. These DepEd IP schools will not only provide Surigao Sur IP leaders have sought quality education but also the right the help of the Caraga Regional values that can preserve and even Task Force-ELCAC to abolish the said develop the culture and tradition of schools and replace them with DepEd our indigenous peoples,” said the army IP schools, citing the TRIFPSS and official. ALCADEV train cadres of IP and non-IP residents in the area to become new The establishment of IP schools, members of the group. spearheaded by DepEd Caraga, is a joint effort of the RTF-ELCAC, the Regional Documents have also been Peace and Order Council (RPOC), and recovered from previous encounters the Regional Development Council with the NPA, substantiating the links (RDC), with the provincial government between the schools and the terrorist of Surigao del Sur. (PIA-Surigao del Sur) September 19-25, 2020 |
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MINDANAO NEWS
MinDA, AMRECO forms advisory group for Mindanao electric woes By John Andrew Tabugoc
ADDRESSING ELECTRICITY PROBLEMS. Mindanao Development Authority Secretary Emmanuel PiĂąol (far right) delivers a speech during an online meeting with Mindanao electric cooperative heads in Kidapawan City on Thursday (Sept. 17, 2020). Beside him are National Electrification Administration Administrator Edgardo R. Masongsong (2nd right); and two congressmen representing the power sector, Engr. Godofredo Guya of the Rural Electric Consumers and Beneficiaries of Development and Advancement, and Ako Padayon Party-list Rep. Adriano Ebcas. (Photo courtesy of CotelcoMatalam)
Top officials of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) and electric cooperatives (ECs) in the island region convened here Thursday to discuss and seek solutions to current power issues.
MinDA chair Secretary Emmanuel gathering aims to tackle the problems PiĂąol, who presided the meeting, said the confronting the electric cooperatives September 19-25, 2020 |
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in delivering efficient power supply and focuses more on improving its technical prevent any untoward power crisis that capability to deliver reliable electricity in could affect the island’s development. every household,” he said. Joining the MinDA chairperson were National Electrification Administration (NEA) head Edgardo Masongsong, Central Mindanao Electric Cooperative Association president Godofredo B. Homez, three power-block party-list lawmakers in Congress, and Corazon Cullantes, who heads the Association of Mindanao Electric Cooperative (AMRECO).
Based on NEA’s data, low electric connections--particularly in BARMM-is connected to a particular locality’s demographic condition, peace and order, compliance of building code, political interventions, and road right-ofway issues.
NEA said the problems encountered in generation and transmission are the major causes of brownouts in Mindanao, “We are gathered here not to blame, based on the data provided by the ECs in but formulate solution to the current Mindanao from January–July 2020. problems the ECs are facing in order to prevent power shortage and outages on “It is always the ECs, being distribution the island like what happened in the past utilities, which are being blamed for power years”, Piñol said. interruptions in their respective localities,” Cullantes said during the meeting. Discussions focused on the root cause of frequent brownouts, power After the discussion, MinDA reliability, low service connection of 35 proposed to form the Local Power percent in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Development Advisory Group (LPDAG), Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), an interim cluster with the Mindanao and outstanding financial capabilities of Power Monitoring Committee (MPMC), some ailing electric cooperatives. the DENR, Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), Department of the Interior and Masongsong said the effort of Local Government (DILG), and the local electric cooperatives to achieve total government units, as members. electrification in far-flung areas requires an efficient system. Piñol said LPDAG intends to conduct further discussions on power issues in He also commended the MinDA every region through the local electric for initiating the discussion, which was cooperatives. aligned with NEA’s direction to bring rural development through electrification. “Electricity is the backbone that drives our investors and economy thus, we “One hundred two of 121 ECs in must be prepared in crafting a long-term the country have competent financial solution to realize the goal of a prosperous and institutional performance and now Mindanao” Piñol pointed out. (PNA)
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| September 19-25, 2020
Mindanao major recipient of ‘Build, Build, Build’ projects By Judy Quiros
FIRST PHASE. Talomo-Puan Bypass Road, which is currently in the first phase. (Photo courtesy of DPHW-11)
Even amid the coronavirus disease health crisis, Mindanao has become the forefront of the government’s Build, Build, Build (BBB) program, widely considered as a key initiative for the country’s economic recovery. “Mindanao is at the front and center of the ‘Build, Build, Build’ infrastructure program. The Department of Finance has been able to secure financing for some infrastructure and peacebuilding projects in the region even amidst the pandemic,” Finance Sec. Carlos G. Dominguez said during the 29th Mindanao Business Conference here last Thursday (Sept. 10).
Dominguez was the keynote speaker of the two-day business event, which was streamed online. For instance, Dominguez noted even at the height of the pandemic, the government in June this year signed a loan agreement with the government of Japan for the second phase of the Davao City Bypass Construction September 19-25, 2020 |
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project.
minor works are ongoing on the initial phase that runs from barangay This project involves the Bago Aplaya in Talomo to Barangay construction of a 45.5-kilometer four- Bucana.” lane bypass road that will begin in Barangay Sirawan in Toril, Davao City, Currently, Ortiz said the coastal to Barangay J.P. Laurel in Panabo City. road has already attracted joggers and bikers. Once completed, the bypass road will reduce the current travel time DPWH has earmarked PHP2.6 in the area from an hour and 44 minutes billion for the project’s initial phase to just about 49 minutes, according to that started in 2017, Ortiz added. the Finance chief. Dominguez said the two big Dominguez said the project also infrastructure projects form part of includes a 2.3-kilometer mountain the Duterte administration’s thrust to tunnel that directly connects Barangay position Davao City as the center for Matina Biao and Barangay Waan in agriculture and industry. Davao City, reducing the travel time between the two points to less than five He also expressed optimism minutes from the usual 44 minutes. that the discussions at the recentlyconcluded Mindanao Business Using Japanese technology, the Conference would contribute to the bypass road and tunnel is scheduled recovery efforts of government amid to start this year and will be operational the disastrous impact of the Covid-19 by 2023. pandemic. Dominguez said that aside from the bypass road project, another ongoing big-ticket infrastructure initiative is the construction of the PHP26-billion Davao City Coastal Road that is expected to ease traffic congestion in the city’s downtown area.
“I am optimistic that by putting our minds together, we can find the best path to come out of this crisis stronger and more resilient than ever,” the Finance chief said.
He also acknowledged the move of Congress to pass the 2021 national The initial 2.7 kilometers of the budget. Davao City Coastal Road Project will be open for public use in the middle of the “The timely passage of the 2021 month, according to the Department national budget is crucial to our of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). economic recovery. This will provide us with the tools necessary to rebuild DPWH-Davao Region the economy and decisively defeat spokesperson Dean Ortiz said “a few Covid-19,” he said. (PNA)
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| September 19-25, 2020
NATIONAL NEWS
SEC. MARTIN ANDANAR PCOO
NEWS CORNER
PCOO lauds H bill on media
fulfilling the commitment of President Rodrigo Duterte of ensuring that media Communications workers in the country are secured and Office (PCOO) protected,” he said.
Presidential Operations Secretary Martin Andanar on Monday welcomed the decision of the House Committee on Labor and Employment to approve the amended draft substitute bill to the proposed Act enhancing the benefits, protection, and security of media workers in the country. “We welcome the approval by the House Committee on Labor and Employment, led by 1-PACMAN PartyList Representative Eric Pineda and House Assistant Majority Leader and ACT-CIS Party-List Representative Niña Taduran, of the pending Media Workers Welfare Act under House Bill 2476,” he said in a statement.
Andanar also described the House panel approval as an “advancement” towards breaking the global stigma placed on the Philippines as being one of the deadliest and worst places for journalists and media workers in the world. On Friday, House Assistant Majority Leader and ACT-CIS Party-List Rep. Niña Taduran’s House Bill (HB) No.2476. hurdled the House panel after two hours of making final refinements to the measure.
Taduran, a former broadcast personality, referred to the measure as her “pet bill” given her work Andanar said the PCOO and background. the Presidential Task Force on Media Under the bill, media workers who Security (PTFoMS) have strongly been pushing for the passage of the Media are assigned to cover dangerous and Workers Welfare Act which aims to hazardous events or situations shall be provides media workers with security given an additional PHP500 daily pay. and protection and also uplifts their economic welfare, benefits, and skills. Death and disability benefits amounting to PHP200,000 shall also be “This is a step forward towards awarded to affected media workers.
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| September 19-25, 2020
House panel approval of workers’ welfare
Communications Secretary Martin Andanar (File photo)
A Media Tripartite Council shall Workers Welfare Act. also be formed. He said that the lack of protection, In December 2019, Andanar security, and benefits of media workers expressed hope that the Congress will is a “vicious cycle” that needs to be give priority to the proposed Media addressed. (Azer Parrocha /PNA) September 19-25, 2020 |
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PCOO launches antinarcotics docu sequel ‘Gramo Dos: Unipormado’
The Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO), in partnership with the Radio Television Malacañang (RTVM) and the Philippine National Police (PNP), is set to launch the second documentary film about the anti-illegal drugs campaign of the Duterte administration entitled “Gramo Dos: Unipormado” on Sunday night.
“As the problem of illegal drugs He, however, said the fight against the remains significant, even during a government’s coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic, we at the PCOO will “remains to be the priority” of the continue to intensify our information administration of President Rodrigo dissemination against it,” Presidential Duterte. Communications
Secretary
Andanar said.
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| September 19-25, 2020
Martin
Andanar said this “is why we continue to strengthen our mandate
of informing the public about the even in the time of pandemic, business government’s responses, programs, still continues,” Gamboa said. and actions against the virus for us to heal and recover as one nation.” Now, the 40-minute sequel “Gramo Dos: Unipormado” will feature He emphasized that the release the perspectives of the three policemen of the documentary film is relevant in their line of duty, fighting against amid the pandemic, as illegal drug use illegal drugs in the country. and trade remain to be a problem, and informing the public about the relevant “We created the sequel of Gramo updates on the pandemic is the priority to highlight that our law enforcers’ lives of PCOO. are also at risk as the scourge of illegal drugs doesn’t choose its victims. That’s Last year, PCOO launched its anti- why we at the government continue narcotics documentary film “Gramo,” to combat its proliferation, and to focusing on the achievements and communicate the accurate narratives, challenges faced by the anti-illegal for us to truly and collectively develop drugs campaign of the Duterte and progress as one nation,” PCOO administration. Assistant Secretary JV Arcena said. It was showcased to the local and international communities to shed light on the real situation faced by local policemen every day, as they sacrifice their lives while performing their duty to put an end to the illegal drugs in the country.
According to the PNP Directorate of Operations, from July 1, 2016 to June 23, 2020, there were already 52 policemen killed in drug-related operations, while 153 were wounded.
“During the pandemic, surprisingly, a lot of illegal drugs are still retrieved. They are not ceasing. Although we have a theory that these were drugs that were not sold and just accumulated. So
“Gramo Dos: Unipormado” will be aired on PTV-4 and IBC-13 at 7 pm. The documentary will also be posted on the PCOO’s social media pages and other affiliate pages. (PCOO PR)
For PNP chief Camilo Cascolan, the administration’s campaign Amid the Covid-19 crisis in countering illegal drugs has positively the country, former PNP chief Gen. changed the lives of Filipinos. Archie Gamboa revealed that the administration’s anti-illegal drugs “The battle now is perception. The campaign this year, from January way you look at it, we look at (Oplan) 1 to June 4, resulted in the seizure Double Barrel before as something of almost 900 kilograms of shabu that has changed the lives of Filipinos (methamphetamine), which has a because basically, we have a President street value of more than PHP6 billion. who really supports the PNP,” he said.
September 19-25, 2020 |
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DSWD 88.7% complete in Listahanan assessment By Christine Cudis
Photo courtesy of DSWD
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said it has completed 88.7 percent of its assessment to the 16.1 million households targeted for the agency’s social development programs. On Monday, DSWD spokesperson Irene Dumlao said they have so far finished the validation process of some 14,301,494 households nationwide as part of their third round of assessment of the Listahanan or the National Household Targeting System for Poverty Reduction (NHTS-PR).
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| September 19-25, 2020
“Once Listahanan 3 comes out, they are with scientific certainty that those on the list are poor with no need for further verification,” National Household Targeting Office (NHTO) director Justin Batocabe said. The agency utilizes Proxy Means Test, a statistical model that
approximates a family’s income based on observable and verifiable proxy indicators, such as materials in housing structure, family’s access to basic services and facilities like water and electricity, and ownership of specific assets, among others. He also shared that while they are conducting the survey, they are taking the chance to espouse the mandated health protocols of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) to help disseminate proper information on health. He said in November, the agency will release the initial list of poor households that will be posted in the communities for the validation and finalization phase of the program. The list will be posted in visible places in barangays to provide opportunity for the public to review and confirm their household information, the DSWD said. Grievances may also be filed through the community desk or online through the Listahanan website on scheduled dates identified by respective DSWD Field Offices (FOs).
series of 2020, stating that Listahanan “surveyors, enumerators, and/or supervisors of the DSWD Regional Offices will be considered as authorized persons outside of residence (APOR) and are allowed to travel inter-zonal and intrazonal in such mode and/ or manner as may be available especially in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas.” Seeing the vitality of the survey, the IATF-EID allowed DSWD personnel to hasten the project while keeping in mind to secure the safety of the government officers as stated in the resolution.
The data collection for the third update of Listahanan began in 2019 and should have been completed by this time, but was put to a halt following the restrictions of the IATF-EID.
Listahanan is an information management system that aims to establish a database of poor households that will serve as DSWD’s basis in the identification of beneficiaries for its Their operations resumed on June different social protection programs with the IATF-EID Resolution No. 65, and services. (PNA) September 19-25, 2020 |
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PH committed to reaching Sustainable Development Goals: PRRD By Azer Parrocha
The Philippines remains committed to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) amid the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic, President Rodrigo Duterte said Wednesday. In his pre-recorded speech at the High-Level Debate of the 75th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Duterte assured that the Philippine government will continue to address poverty, hunger, and good-health, among others.
committed to the Sustainable Development Goals,� Duterte said.
The SDGs were adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015 as a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure “Despite this downward pressure that all people enjoy peace and on growth, the Philippines remains prosperity by 2030.
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| September 19-25, 2020
Duterte said the country was able to reduce the poverty rate to 16.6 percent; and a sustained economic growth rate of 6.4 percent between 2010 and 2019.
plunge in the second quarter due to lockdowns
Malacañang, however, expressed optimistic about recovery as the economy starts to reopen after months He noted that the Philippines was of coronavirus-linked lockdowns. supposedly on track to becoming an upper-middle income country by the “We have hit rock bottom and end of 2020 until the health crisis placed the only way to go is up,” Presidential the economy in recession. Spokesperson Harry Roque said in a press conference last Sept. 10. In August, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported that the He urged public to unite in efforts country has officially entered into to rebuild the economy while observing recession for the first time in almost 30 minimum health and safety standards. years with a 16.5-percent economic (PNA)
Palace hails senators’ move to give PRRD authority vs. red tape By Azer Parrocha
Malacañang on Monday hailed the Senate decision to create a legislation that will give President Rodrigo Duterte emergency powers to cut red-tape without having to amend the Ease of Doing Business law. “We appreciate the initiative of Senate President (Vicente) Sotto (III), and this was the main agenda when the President invited the leaders of both Houses of Congress,” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said in a virtual presser.
red tape. He said the measure would help the Philippine economy recover from recession brought about by coronavirus-related lockdowns.
“Hirap na ang ekonomiya dahil Roque admitted that the Ease of sa pandemya, humahanap ng paraan Doing Business law is not enough to cut ang Presidente para mapabilis ang September 19-25, 2020 |
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PALACE MEETING. President Rodrigo Roa Duterte discusses matters with Senate President Vicente Sotto III, Senator Christopher Go, House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano, and House Majority Leader Ferdinand Martin Gomez Romualdez during a meeting at the Malago Clubhouse in Malacañang on Sept. 16, 2020. Duterte discussed with congressional leaders the ease of doing business in the country. (Presidential photo by Toto Lozano)
ating pagbangon galing sa recession na ito at talaga pong problema pa rin ang red tape (The economy is suffering because of the pandemic, so the President is looking for ways to be able to recover from recession and our problem remains to be red tape),” he said.
House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano, and Sen. Christopher “Bong” Go to express his frustrations over the implementation of the Ease of Doing Business law.
Go said Duterte wanted to reduce if not eliminate red tape and corruption in the remaining days of his term until Last Friday, Sotto said some 2022. senators have agreed on strategies to able to meet the instruction of the In 2018, Duterte signed Republic President to make it easier for investors Act No. 11032 or the Ease of Doing to do business in the country. Business law which introduces simplified requirements and streamlined Sotto said he is eyeing to pass the procedures that spare people from legislation before Oct. 15. waiting time and long lines. Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri said the powers will give Duterte the authority to shorten the prescribed time for processing transactions such as business licenses and permits.
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The law, which amends the Anti-Red Tape Act of 2007, reduces processing time for government agencies to three working days for simple transactions, seven working days for complex transactions, and 20 working days for highly technical Duterte earlier met with Sotto, transactions. (PNA)
| September 19-25, 2020
Duterte sure 2 nations won’t ask PH for vaccine reservation fee By Azer Parrocha
President Rodrigo R. Duterte (Presidential file photo)
President Rodrigo Duterte is certain that at least two countries will provide the Philippines with a supply of coronavirus disease (Covid-19) vaccines without asking to pay a reservation fee, MalacaĂąang said Tuesday. In a virtual Palace briefing, said Duterte is sure that China and Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque Russia will not require the Philippines
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| September 19-25, 2020
to enter into an advance market pay, he’ll rely on friendship) and that’s commitment (AMC)-based agreement why he has fostered ties with all countries before providing a supply of vaccine. that are developing the vaccines,” he said. AMC for vaccines aims to make the market for vaccines in developing Earlier, Duterte said he would buy countries more attractive through the most affordable vaccines since the a legally binding commitment to government is already lacking funds. purchase vaccines according to predetermined terms, according to the “Kung sino lang ang nauna World Health Organization (WHO). magbigay sa atin na mura, doon tayo pupunta kasi (Whoever will give it to us “We don’t know if any company for a cheap price, that’s where we get in the United States will in fact give us them because) they know that we do without payment of AMC but he’s sure not have enough money. Kung mahal that if it comes from Russia, if it comes masyado (If it’s too expensive), we will from China, we can,” Roque said. go for the less expensive ones,” he said in a public address on Sept. 6. Roque reiterated Duterte’s earlier statement that he does not Duterte said he will seek a discount agree with paying for something from China and Russia on vaccines that is not certain, even if they were that each of the two countries have already in their advanced stages of developed and promise to supply the clinical trials. Philippines. “Gaya nga ng sabi ng Presidente, hindi siya naniniwala doon sa ginagawa ng ibang mga bansa (na) nagbabayad na (Like the President said, he does not believe in what other countries are doing where they pay) ahead of time in the development of the vaccine to ensure that they get a supply,” he said.
Meanwhile, Roque said the Philippines will continue its participation in the Gavi Covid-19 Vaccines Global Access (COVAX) facility, a global initiative that guarantees access to Covid-19 vaccines worldwide.
“Ang style naman po ni Presidente kung hindi tayo magbabayad idinadaan po sa pagkakaibigan (The style of the President is that if we don’t
“We will cooperate in connection with all multilateral efforts to ensure equitable sharing of a vaccine if developed,” Roque said. (PNA)
The COVAX facility is a mechanism designed to ensure rapid, fair, and equitable access to Covid-19 vaccines He said Duterte is relying on the for every country in the world, be it a rich Philippines’ close ties with countries in or poor nation, to make rapid progress the process of developing a vaccine. toward slowing the pandemic.
September 19-25, 2020 |
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PRRD pushes for universal access to Covid-19 vaccine By Azer Parrocha
(Xinhua photo)
President Rodrigo R. Duterte on Wednesday called for “universal access” to a coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccine, saying it is the only way to beat the global health crisis. In his first speech before the 75th United Nations General Assembly, Duterte cited the need for “rich and poor nations” to have access to a vaccine.
to it must not be denied nor withheld. It should be made available to all, rich and poor nations alike, as a matter of policy,” he said.
Duterte said the Philippines joins its “The world is in the race to find partners in the Association of Southeast a safe and effective vaccine. When Asian Nations (Asean) and the Nonthe world finds that vaccine, access Aligned Movement in believing that the
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| September 19-25, 2020
Covid-19 vaccine must be considered “a global public good.” With each nation having a strategy in fighting the pandemic, he said, the world needs “coordinated international plans and efforts” to defeat the health crisis. “Covid-19 knows no border. It knows no nationality. It knows no race. It knows no gender. It knows no age. It knows no creed,” the President said. He also recognized the role played by the United Nations in its fight against the pandemic. “As a middle-income country whose economic advances have been derailed by the pandemic, we welcome the launch of the UN Covid Response and Recovery Fund,” Duterte said.
lost their loved ones to this horrible virus,” Duterte said.
He noted that defeating the Covid-19 pandemic and other challenges require “seamless unity,” which also demands “complete mutual He called for a global health trust.” agenda with enough resources and “We cannot bring back the dead policy space for the World Health but we can spare the living; and we Organization (WHO). can build back better, healthier, and “We need a WHO that is quick to more prosperous and just societies,” he coordinate and quicker to respond. The said. Philippines will do its part in the pooling Duterte was the 12th head of state of global resources. Our health workers to have his remarks aired at the UN are among the best,” Duterte said. General Assembly High-level Debate. Meanwhile, he also extended This year marks the first time that condolences to all of the families whose loved ones died of the deadly disease. the global body’s high-level general debate and other high-level meetings “In the light of the realities of the were done almost completely virtually present, the Philippines grieves with all due to restrictions posed by the health of the families all over the world who crisis. (PNA) September 19-25, 2020 |
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DOH recommends EO issuance to regulate Covid-19 swab tests costs By Ma. Teresa Montemayor
The Department of Health (DOH) has submitted to the Office of the President a recommendation for an executive order (EO) issuance that will regulate the prices of swab tests for Covid-19, a health official said Monday. “Napansin na natin ang (We have noticed the) differential pricing across different laboratories in the country and we also see the difference among laboratories as to how much a swab testing costs,” DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said in a virtual media forum. Vergeire explained, “the EO will mandate the DOH and/or the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to cap the prices and the national agency assigned will issue details like law now, and this law, it contains the price ceiling through administrative price ceiling for medicines but not policies”. included are the) diagnostics and for professional fees, that’s what we have “Bakit ba executive order ang tried to study,” she said. hinihingi natin? Kasi ngayon mayroon tayong batas, ang batas na ito, “We will conduct small surveys to nakasaad po diyan ang price ceiling determine (the) price range, same as sa medicines pero hindi po nakasama what we do with medicines, and we will diyan yung sa (Why are we requesting consult with experts plus DTI regarding for an executive order? There’s a the prices,” she added. (PNA)
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| September 19-25, 2020
DOH set to conduct pilot trial of antigen testing for Covid-19 By Ma. Teresa Montemayor
The Department of Health (DOH) is set to perform a pilot test on the use of antigen tests as new tools in identifying coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) infections. In a media briefing, DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said the department has proposed the pilot test to the InterAgency Task Force (IATF) to check the capacity of antigen tests in providing reliable results during Covid-19 screening.
polymerase chain reaction (RTPCR) tests, congregate settings, or outbreaks. “Alam natin ang Baguio ang napili kasi (We know Baguio was selected because) it has an efficient contact tracing system. They have good governance and management in response to Covid-19 and we can see the political commitment of their local officials headed by Mayor Benjamin Magalong,� Vergeire said.
Antigen tests, which also use swab samples, can reveal or detect if a person is currently infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Results may be released within an hour after the person has been tested. She added the DOH, medical experts and Magalong already had Earlier, the World Health a meeting on Monday morning on Organization recommended the the final guidelines and they will use of antigen tests in case of present to the IATF on Tuesday for unavailability of reverse transcription- approval. (PNA) September 19-25, 2020 |
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More Covid-19 isolation facilities under Bayanihan 2: Dizon By Lade Jean Kabagani
Testing czar and National Policy Against Covid-19 deputy chief implementer Secretary Vince Dizon (Screengrab from RTVM)
More isolation facilities for coronavirus disease (Covid-19) patients would be built under the Bayanihan to Recover as One Act (Bayanihan 2), the country’s testing czar said on Friday. “Sa tulong ng (With the help of) dumami ang ating testing o dumami Bayanihan We Recover As One Law ang ating kaso (We can still manage it ay kakayanin pa natin ito kahit na even if our testing capacity increases
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| September 19-25, 2020
or the Covid-19 cases spike),” National Policy against Covid-19 deputy chief implementer, Secretary Vince Dizon said during a virtual press briefing with Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque in Baguio City. Dizon noted that the measure is part of efforts to improve the country’s capability to isolate more patients away from their communities to avoid further transmission of Covid-19.
(It’s the same thing in testing. We have tested a lot, but what we are focusing on now — is to further hasten our testing capacity. Not just the number of tests but the speed of the testing. That’s more important),” he said.
“Kailangan 24 hours to 48 hours naa-isolate na natin yung mga kababayan nating magkakasakit (We should isolate our infected countrymen within 24 to 48 hours),” Dizon added, noting that the new technologies must Under the Bayanihan 2, PHP4.5 be maximized to combat the disease. billion was allocated for temporary medical isolation and quarantine He also reiterated that beating facilities, field hospitals, and expansion the pandemic needs cooperation of government hospitals’ capacity all among the government, the public, over the country. and other stakeholders, citing criticism as a “normal stand” in a democratic Dizon also noted a significant drop country. in the number of Covid-19 infected individuals in government isolation “Ang importante lang naman facilities in greater Metro Manila. tingin ko, dapat ang focus natin hindi ‘yung mag-criticize, dapat magtulung “Ngayon po ay nasa 50 percent tulong na lang tayo (The only important plus na lang. Nasa 52, 53 percent na thing I think, we should not focus on lang (So far, it’s just 50 plus percent. criticism, we must work together),” Around 52, 53 percent only),” he said. Dizon acknowledged the essence While noting that the country’s of cooperation to further flatten the Covid-19 response has already curve of Covid-19. improved, Dizon cited the need to continue all efforts that have been “Laban natin ‘tong lahat eh. Hindi done in the past to further halt the ito laban lang ni Pangulong Duterte spread of the disease. o ng gobyerno. Laban ‘to ng bawat Pilipino (This is our battle. It’s not just a “Sa testing ganun din. Madami battle for President [Rodrigo] Duterte na tayong nate-test pero ang pino- or the government. This is a battle focus natin ngayon—’yung mapabilis of entire Filipinos),” he said. “Tulungnatin yung testing natin. Hindi lang tulong pa din ang kinakailangan para yung dami ng tine-test kundi yung bilis magtagumpay tayo (We still need ng pagte-test. ‘Yun yung importante cooperation to succeed).” (PNA) September 19-25, 2020 |
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