An Rehiyon Ocho Yana V 1 No 6

The Official Newsletter of PIA-8 and RTF-8 ELCAC

VOL I NO. 6

December 16-31, 2019

DON'T GIVE REVOLUTIONARY TAXES TO CTGS, RTF-ELCAC8 PLEDS CLUSTER EXHORTS SAMAR ISLAND CONTRACTORS

Fighting poverty is key to win insurgency, says Leyte Gov. Petilla By: Marcelo M. Pedalino TACLOBAN CITY -- The governor of Leyte province has appreciated the creation of a task force that seeks to end local communist armed conflict (TF-ELCAC), because it has a cluster composed of national government agencies dedicated on poverty-reduction, among other clusters.

At a yearender press conference participated by practicing journalists from all over Eastern Visayas region, Leyte Gov. Dominic Petilla repeatedly stated that the solution to overcome the problem on home-grown rebellion is to bring the battle right to its root cause which is poverty.

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TACLOBAN CITY -- “Your best contribution towards ending insurgency and sustaining peace in this area is very simple - don’t give ‘revolutionary taxes to the CPPNPAs.”

This was what Major General Pio Diñoso, commander if the 8th Infantry Division and Chair of the Regional Task Force- ELCAC 8 PLEDS Cluster, told some 30 contractors, construction suppliers and several politicians from all over Samar Island in a meeting held some time before Christmas.

“Pag nagbigay kayo ng pera, you are supporting the NPA, you are supporting the terrorists, the enemy of State,” Diñoso said as he exhorted the contractors to stop giving in to NPA extortions.

During the meeting,

MGen Diñoso told the participants that the most serious threat and greatest concern to the region’s security is Communist insurgency and terrorism of the CPP/NPA.

He said Samar Island has great potential but CPP-NPA stunted its economic growth.

The CPP-NPA has evolved into banditry, extortion and criminal gangs capitalizing on prevailing social issues. It has become the biggest criminal syndicate in the country, Diñoso said.

He explained how the NPA used the money extorted to expand mass bases, launch offensives against soft targets and intensify extortion activities.

The participants said they

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December 16-31, 2019

YLS in conflict-affected barangay of Can-avid, deterrent to CTG recruitment TACLOBAN CITY -- The Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC) of Canavid, Eastern Samar under its chairperson, Mayor Gil Norman P. Germino, together with the 14th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army, recently conducted a three-day Youth Leadership Summit at Barangay Pandol.

Said activity is part of the Retooled Community Service Program in Brgy. Pandol where immersion started on November 12, 2019.

The summit was participated in by 75 youth leaders, composed of 16 Sangguniang Kabataan members, 47 students and 12 Out-of-School Youth (OSY) from Barangay Pandol, and the nearby barangays Boco, Balagon and Salvacion, all of Can-avid.

Discussed during the three-day activity were the following topics: Struggles of the Youth/Challenges/Trials, Making the right decisions, Father’s Love (Spiritual and Moral), Reflection and Sharing/Letter Writing, VAWC, Bullying, HIV/AIDS Awareness, Teenage Pregnancy, Leadership, Human Rights/IHL, Insurgency Awareness, Reflection (Meet with the Parents).

The lecturers were from the LGU, LGAs and the PNP who

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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA Army official in EV appeals for civilian, media support vs NPAs By: Ninfa Iluminada B. Quirante

TACLOBAN CITY, Dec. 21 (PIA)—An army official appealed to all civilians to provide information on NPA atrocities in the barangays.

In PIA’s Panginsayod hosted by PIA 8 Regional Director Olive Tiu, Capt. Reynaldo Aragones, the official made his appeal.

Aragones heads the 8th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO) based in Catbalogan City.

“Wala na silang galang sa karapatang pantao, apat na ang nasawi, magpa-Pasko pa, imbis na kaligayahan ngayong Pasko, luksa at pasakit ang dulot nila.” (They do not respect human rights, four have died and this is almost Christmas, the families should have been happy, but instead they are grieving.)

These were the words of Aragones as he appealed to the media to help inform the public to relay information that can help them and other security forces thwart any plans to terrorize

civilians.

“Tulungan ninyo kami, hindi na ito laban lang ng pulis at army,” (This is not just the fight between us army and police against them) he added.

“Sibilyan na ang tinitira.”

(They are now targeting even civilians.)

“Kailangan po namin ang tulong ng sibilyan, ang pagbigay ng impormasyon.” (We need your help, give us information.)

He also requested the media to refrain from entertaining the legal fronts of the NPAs.

“Habang pinapatulan niyo ang propaganda nila, lalo niyo sila iprino-promote,” (Once you entertain them, you are promoting their false propaganda) Aragones passionately pleaded.

The army officer also thanked the media for helping the government to promote what the government is doing.

“Hindi na nag-iisa ang sundalo at pulis sa gawain namin, kakampi na namin ang sibilyan.”

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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA December 16-31, 2019 Alternative livelihood reaches IPs in far-flung Typhoon Ursula Brgy Mahagnao leaves 2 dead, 4

3

missing in Eastern Samar

TACLOBAN CITY -- Indigenous People (IPs) at the far-flung barangay of Mahagnao in Burauen, Leyte have reasons to meet the New Year with optimism.

They were part of the 50 students who were trained on Animal Production (PoultryChicken) NC II and Animal Production (Ruminant) NC II held at Brgy Mahagnao, Burauen, Leyte.

The training which aims to provide alternative livelihood to the populace in the hinterland communities in Leyte has been very helpful to the populace.

Copra production, their main source of income, for years has declined its local and international market value, thus, they are badly in need of an alternative livelihood.

Barangay Mahagnao is part of Burauen’s vast wetland forest that houses thousands of century old trees surrounding Mahagnao Volcano, although the volcano has been inactive, it is classified as potentially active due to the active thermal features of the mountain.

TACLOBAN CITY -- Typhoon Phanfone known locally as Typhoon Ursula left two casualties in Eastern Samar, Governor Ben Evardone disclosed.

Evardone said that of the two casualties, only one has been identified. He is Carlos Yu Beltran, 70 years old, from Barangay 3, Balangkayan town, who was drowned when his house was swept away by storm surge.

The other fatality who is

On December 19, 2019, from Guiuan is still unidentified, Personnel of Alpha (Apache) according to Guiuan DRRMO and Company, 78th Infantry PNP, the Governor added.

(Warrior) Battalion led by First

This brings to four the Lieutenant Edgardo B. Bernas, number of deaths in Eastern Company Commander partVisayas due to Typhoon Ursula. nered with TESDA Leyte, the

Earlier, Leyte Governor lead of the Leyte Provincial Task Dominico Leopoldo L. Petilla Force-ELCAC Poverty Reduction reported that there are two deaths and Livelihood Cluster, in the in Leyte. distribution of Training Support One if from Abuyog and Fund and Starter Kit to the fifty the other unconfirmed, is from (50) students.

Kananga. Moreover, the five miss The help of the 78th ing fishermen from Borongan are Infantry Battalion is crucial to identified as Clyde Lustre, 52 years the cluster as it provides the old, Danilo Banezar, Artemio much-need security and prepaYbanez, 55 years old, and Fiel ratory arrangements support.

Fabiliran.

Present during the ac “Let’s hope and pray that tivity were Hon. Noel P. Alpino, they are safe,” Governor Evardone Vice-Mayor, Burauen, Leyte; Hon. added.

Oscar A. Cagara, Sangguniang

Christmas Typhoon Ursula Bayan Member; Ms. Marites E. hit Easter Samar on Christmas Asistol, Senior Specialist, TESDA Eve and made its first landfall Leyte; Mr. Alex Aborita, School over Eastern Samar, particularly Administrator; Hon. Eulalio F. Salcedo town, late afternoon of Agustin Jr., Punong Barangay of Tuesday. (PIA8) Brgy Mahagnao and Hon. Rogelio Gloria, Punong Barangay of Brgy Kagbana, both of Burauen, Leyte and Mr. Jonny B. Banagbanag, Tribal Leader. (PIA8)

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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

December 16-31, 2019

Barangay officials support ELCAC, burn CTG flag in indignation rally By: Marcelo M. Pedalino

CANDAHUG, Palo, Leyte -- The Department of Trade and Industry launched in 2019 its new program, Negosyo Serbisyos sa Barangay (NSB) which allows a wider reach of business development assistance by bringing government services closer to the people through partnership between relevant local government units.

NSB extends the services of DTI in promoting business and empowering informed consumers to barangays from the 4th-6th class municipalities including the communities that are seldom or never been reached by the government and those that are identified as influenced by the communist group.

Through the Barangay Development Councils (BDCs), DTI capacitates barangay personnel to provide basic business advisory or information dissemination services to micro entrepreneurs in the locality.

As of November 2019, DTI Region 8 already covered 535 barangays in 99 municipalities; reached 9,356 micro entrepreneurs, and a total of 41, 845 assisted clients in the communities through its Negosyo Centers and Provincial Offices.

This is one way to hear from people what their needs are because they seldom interact with the government. This is also helpful in creating awareness of the government programs and services that they can avail and benefit from, particularly in improving livelihood of the communities through entrepreneurship.

One good practice about the NSB is that DTI collaborates and coordinates with various government agencies such as AFP, PNP, DILG, TESDA and the LGUs, among other partner implementing agencies of Executive Order No. 70.

Through consultative meetings and MSME profiling, DTI promotes various programs and services of the Department that results to the conduct of basic entrepreneurial and skills training.

According to a participant of NSB in Brgy. Bool West, Culaba, Biliran, “Happy kaming mga taga Brgy. Bool West na mismong mga taga-DTI bumisita at nagkaroon ng communication, paano masu-sustain o mag-stable yung mga iniisip manin na negosyo o mga magnenegosyo para ma-assist at matulungan kung paano umangat ang antas ng aming pamumuhay.”

The NSB, part of DTI Region 8’s Breakthrough Goals 2019, do not only measure clients assisted, but recognizes the impact it brings to the communities by making government services more accessible to the people.

(DTI-8)

Leyte now under state of calamity after Ursula’s trail of destruction TACLOBAN CITY -- The Sangguniang Panlalawigan in the afternoon of December 26, has declared the Province of Leyte under a state of calamity due to the trail of destruction caused by Typhoon Ursula.

Vice Governor Carlo P. Loreto said the decision came after the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council of Leyte released its assessment and recommendation.

The report by the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council, showed that the total damage reaches P44,805,155 including destroyed crops, fisheries, livestock and poultry and infrastructure.

Because of this, “There is an urgency for immediate repair and rehabilitation of severely damaged public structure of government agencies and providing assistance to restore livelihood and living condition of people,” Loreto said.

A total of 1,941 families were evacuated as of 3 p.m. on Tuesday, December 24, from the towns of Palo, La Paz, Dulag, Babatngon, Barugo, San Isidro, Ormoc, Isabel, Bato, Abuyog and Jaro in Leyte.

Earlier, the PDRRMO Leyte reported that a 13-year-old boy from Baybay City died after he was electrocuted. In Kanangga town, Ramil Rosal Sr., 37 years old died of drowning, while his son Rey Jun Rosal is still missing.

(PIA-8)

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

December 16-31, 2019

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DTI-8 extends services to farthest barangays in Eastern Visayas

CANDAHUG, Palo, Leyte -- The Department of Trade and Industry launched in 2019 its new program, Negosyo Serbisyos sa Barangay (NSB) which allows a wider reach of business development assistance by bringing government services closer to the people through partnership between relevant local government units.

NSB extends the services of DTI in promoting business and empowering informed consumers to barangays from the 4th-6th class municipalities including the communities that are seldom or never been reached by the

government and those that are identified as influenced by the communist group.

Through the Barangay Development Councils (BDCs), DTI capacitates barangay personnel to provide basic business advisory or information dissemination services to micro entrepreneurs in the locality.

As of November 2019, DTI Region 8 already covered 535 barangays in 99 municipalities; reached 9,356 micro entrepreneurs, and a total of 41, 845 assisted clients in the communities through its Negosyo Centers and

www.pia.gov.ph

Provincial Offices.

This is one way to hear from people what their needs are because they seldom interact with the government. This is also helpful in creating awareness of the government programs and services that they can avail and benefit from, particularly in improving livelihood of the communities through entrepreneurship.

One good practice about the NSB is that DTI collaborates and coordinates with various government agencies such as AFP, PNP, DILG, TESDA and the LGUs, among other partner implementing agencies of Executive Order No. 70.

Through consultative meetings and MSME profiling, DTI promotes various programs and services of the Department that results to the conduct of basic entrepreneurial and skills training.

According to a participant of NSB in Brgy. Bool West, Culaba, Biliran, “Happy kaming mga taga Brgy. Bool West na mismong mga taga-DTI bumisita at nagkaroon ng communication, paano masu-sustain o mag-stable yung mga iniisip manin na negosyo o mga magnenegosyo para ma-assist at matulungan kung paano umangat ang antas ng

continued on page 20

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December 16-31, 2019

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

Borongan City SKs stage indignation rally vs NPAs Maasin City gathers By: Ninfa Barcena-Quirante chief tanods, holds ng orientation at magbuo ng refresher training and BORONGAN CITY -- The Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) grupo sa ibang kadahilanan,” she annual assembly Federation of Borongan staged an said.

By: Ma. Rebecca G. Cadavos

MAASIN CITY -– The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) gathered the chief tanods throughout Maasin City in a Refresher Training and Annual General Assembly held December 16, 2019 here.

The activity held at the Liga ng mga Barangay Office highlighted ELCAC (End Local Communist Armed Conflict) as one of the topics discussed during the day.

One of the speakers, Philippine National Police (PNP) Maasin City Police Station chief PLtCol Mark N. Nalda emphasized education as one of the important steps in strengthening information campaign regarding anti-terrorism

“The cure of ignorance is education,” Nalda said referring to those individuals who don’t know yet anti-terrorism activities.

He disclosed that there are people who don’t appreciate the government’s assistance in the province, city/municipality and down to the barangays such as farm-to-market roads, evacuation centers, school buildings/classrooms, among others which are very important structures at the local level.

“Let us strengthen education on terrorism at the local level and present what the government

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indignation rally vs the NPAs on December 26, 2019.

SK Borongan City Federation President May Lanie Anacta led the rally supported

by Sangguniang Panglungsod Member Rozen Daza, the city government, the police, the Philippine Army and other uniformed personnel.

Some of them held placards saying: CPP-NPA-NDF Layas sa Borongan.(CPP-NPA-NDF scram from Borongan.)

Others said: 51 ka tuig panguwat, undang na. (51 years of deception, stop.)

In her message, Anacta urged the SK officials to impose upon themselves the responsibility of relaying information to thwart off the atrocities of the NPAs, and especially the recruitment they do to their fellow young people.

“Please naman, magtrabaho naman tayo, maging alerto sa kanya-kanyang barangay, na sabihan ang mga SK na wag basta magtiwala sa mga mag co conduct

“In the incident that happened in Libuton, kabataan ang umatake, kaedad natin, imagine, dahil tayo ay mapusok, at idealistic, they take advantage of our sense of idealism and adventurism.”

For his part, Borongan City Chief of Police, Lt. Col. Douglas Eloja cautioned the youth from the deceptive recruitment of the young.

“Ano ang iyong magiging kinabukasan, kung sa CPP-NPANDF ikaw ay magpapalinlang?

Kapag nakapasok na o na recruit na kayo sa pamamagitan ng legal na organisasyon, bibigyan sila ng pag-aaral particular na sa lipunan at rebolusyon at marami pang pag-aaral na unti-unting lalason sa kaisipan ninyo,” (What will be your future if you join the CPPNPA-NDF? Once recruited by their legal fronts, you will be given lectures on the society and revolution, by then they will started poisoning your young minds.)

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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

December 16-31, 2019

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PNP-EV in full alert following ambush incident By: Consuelo B. Alarcon

15 wounded when a patrol car was ambushed by armed men. (LDL/ CBA/PIA-8)

Biliran records lone Ursula-related casualty By: PIA - Biliran

PALO, Leyte -- The Philippine National Police (PNP) in Eastern Visayas is now on full alert status following the recent ambush incident in Barangay Libuton, Borongan, Eastern Samar.

This is in accordance with the directive of the OIC PNP Chief Lt. General Archie F. Gamboa of the PNP national headquarters.

In a press conference held Monday at Camp Kangleon, this municipality, PNP-8 new acting Deputy Regional Director for Administration Police Col. Marvin Manuel P. Pepino said this means all men are not allowed to go on leave during these days.

“Cancel po ang mga leave namin because of the incident so we are in a full alert status.

Full alert po kami. Ako, I’m from Davao City, hindi ako makakauwi sa Davao lalo na I am assigned here, so dirediretso na in the name of service,” Pepino said.

On Sunday, Lt. General Archie F. Gamboa, officer-in-charge of the Philippine National Police (PNP) met with the families of the policemen who were ambushed in Brgy. Libuton, Borongan Eastern Samar and personally handed over the financial assistance to them.

The PNP official visited the wounded policemen confined in hospitals in the cities of Tacloban and Borongan where he conferred the Medalya Ng Sugatang Magiting Award.

The wounded cops were identified as Patrolman Ric E. Capoquian Jr., Patrolman Kevin Operario, Patrolman Angelito Luterte and Patrolman Rey Sobrepena.

He likewise expressed sympathy to the family of the policeman killed in action identified as Patrolman Mark Jerome Rama whose wife is pregnant for their first child.

In a short interview with the official, General Gamboa gave some words of encouragement to the policemen.

“Lumaban tayo… sa PNP ito yung mandato natin na ibinigay ng Republika. Let’s fight for the Republic. Huwag tayo magpadala kahit ganito ang paraan nila para mag-inflict ng injuries sa PNP,” Gamboa said.

The PNP assured the wounded policemen and their families that the PNP will shoulder all the hospital bills.

On Dec. 15, three were killed including two civilians and

NAVAL, Biliran -- Joel Ticoy, Cabucgayan MDRRMO, reported that a certain Reymark “Ronjo” Cañete, 25 years old, married, of Barangay Pawikan, Cabucgayan, Biliran is the lone casualty related to TS Ursula in Cabucgayan, Biliran.

Ticoy said that Cañere’s cause of death was due to the uprooted mango tree which fell into his house that also hit him while he was inside his house at around 11 p.m. of December 24, 2019, at the height of the devastation of TS Ursula.

TS Ursula made a landfall in Cabucgayan, Biliran at around 9:15 p.m of December 24.

Cañete’ s dead body was recovered from his house with the use of chainsaw and other rescue equipment at around 1 a.m. to 2 a.m. of December 25, and was buried at the town’s cemetery at around 9 p.m. that same day.

Ticoy said the other family members of Canete were evacuated to the town’s evacuation center as a preemptive evacuation was implemented by the LGU for the safety of the constituents.

However, Cañete opted to remain at his house.(PIA Biliran)

8 December 16-31, 2019

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

FEATURE

Winning elusive peace thru peaceful ways Municipal Task Forces-ELCAC in Northern Samar have found the best strategy in winning elusive peace - that is through peaceful means.

The Las Navas, Northern Samar Municipal Task ForceELCAC led by Mayor Arlito Tan recently met in its pursuit to win peace in this part of the province using peaceful ways.

The said meeting was highlighted with the send-off ceremony to the members of Retooled Community Service Program (RCSP) Teams who will undertake community support activities in the five (5) priority barangays of Las Navas, namely: Magsaysay, Perez, Quirino, San Antonio and San Francisco.

The event was graced by Colonel Zosimo Oliveros, the Commander of 803rd Infantry (Peacemaker) Brigade, Philippine Army who congratulated Mayor Tan for heeding the call of President Duterte to end local armed conflict in Las Navas.

In his message, Colonel Oliveros recognized that military

approach is not a solution to the problem of insurgency. The real solution is addressing the root causes thru the delivery of social services.

These things will be made possible with the convergence of all agencies, otherwise known as “WoN” or the “Whole-of-Nation” approach with the LGU at the forefront, he added.

On the other hand, the Municipal Task Force-ELCACC of Mapanas, Northern Samar headed

by Honorable Mayor Tom Tejano also is threading the same path to peace.

It also conducted a send off ceremony for its Retooled Community Service Program Team which headed for an immersion mission at its priority barangay, San Jose in the Middle of November.

The RCSP Teams of Mapanas and Las Navas will immerse to the aforementioned Brgys for months until the concerns of the barangays are gathered and the issues raised are addressed. (PIA 8)

RDRRMC 8 conducts pre-disaster risk assessment re TD, holidays

By: Consuelo B. Alarcon

TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte -- The Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) chaired by OCD OIC Regional Director Rey Gozon conducted on December 22, a Pre-Disaster Risk Assessment (PDRA) meeting at the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) conference room to know the preparedness measures undertaken by the agencies concerned in preparation for Tropical Depression Ursula.

Various agencies presented their initial preparation for the weather disturbance which is expected to affect Eastern Visayas region if the track remains.

OCD8 OIC Regional Drector Rey Gozon requested the Department of the Interior and Local Government to reiterate the issuance of an order for pre-emptive and forced evacuation to local government units in order to ensure the safety of the residents particularly those residing in the coastal barangays.

“Considering the forecast, we might as well prepare for the worst para mas maraming buhay ang ma-save,“ Gozon said.

Mr. Craig Lawrence M. Diaz, DRRM focal of the Department of Health Regional Office 8 informed the council that the DOH Emergency Operation Center has activated the code white alert status since December

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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

December 16-31, 2019

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Death toll due to Ursula in EV rises to 13 TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte -– Typhoon Ursula’s trail of destruction has left 13 dead, 10 injured and two still missing.

This information is contained in the latest situational report issued by the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) chaired by the Office of Civil Defense in the morning of December 29.

Of the 13 deaths, 5 are from Leyte 5 from Eastern Samar, 1 from Southern Leyte, 1 from Biliran and 1 from Samar.

Of the ten persons injured, five are from Leyte and five are from Eastern Samar.

The two missing persons are both from Eastern Samar.

Eastern Visayas RDRRMC disclosed the names of the fatalities as:

From Southern Leyte, PSSG Charles B Pongos, 38, M, from Brgy Taliwa Malitbog, Southern Leyte, who suffered Perforating Neck Trauma; avulsed wound of neck, contact with live wire due to motor vehicular accident, with death certificate.

From the Province of LEYTE, - Arwin Superalis Jomoc, 13, M Brgy Pangasugan , Baybay City, Neurogenic Shock; Accidental Live wire Electrocution, with death certificate.

- Ramil S Rosal, 37, M,Sitio Bunal, Poblacion, Kananga, Leyte for Alleged Drowning, Death

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Eastern Samar PDRRMC prepares for Ty Ursula By: Ninfa Barcena-Quirante

BORONGAN CITY -- The Eastern Samar Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council convened on December 23, 2019 to prepare for Tropical Storm Ursula.

Presided by Provincial Administrator Nelson Cortez, the group laid out their preparedness plans to meet the typhoon head-on.

For a start, Cortez asked the National Food Authority to prepare some 500 bags. Ric Galupe of DOSTPagasa shared the latest weather bulletin aired at 11 a.m. and said that TS Ursula is the 21st typhoon that hit the country, this year.

He also read the potential impact the typhoon may cause like damage to houses made of light materials and rice crops on its flowering stage.

Cortez said, “We have to prepare for the whole province.”

The DepEd representative also reported that schools that passed the structural integrity tests will be open to possible evacuees.

As to the Department of Health, the representative also shared that they have activated their operation center and is ready with the logistics and manpower.

The DILG rep also talked of activating all local disaster councils

and asked them to be open 24 hours.

The Provincial Social Welfare Office Josefina Paligutan said that when the rice ordered by the provincial government is delivered, repacking will be done immediately.

The security forces, army and police also shared that they have converted their combat teams to become search and rescue teams for the typhoon.

The DPWH said that their manpower and heavy equipment are prepositioned for immediate clearing in landslide prone areas.

Engr. Carlo Castillejos of DPWH also appealed for Esamelco, the electric company and the telcos to join in the clearing ops not only for debris but for the cable and wires strewn around so that the highways and other roads could be clear immediately for the rescue and relief vehicles to get though easily.

Assistant PDRRM Officer Levi Nicart also asked the composite team of the Rapid Damage Needs and Analysis (RDANA) to join in the assessment trips that the PDRRM Council will hold. Vice Governor Maricar Goteesan also joined the afternoon meeting of the PDRRMC. (nbq/PIA 8-E. Samar)

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA RDRRMC 8 intensifies preps as TS ‘Ursula’ approaches Eastern Visayas 10

December 16-31, 2019

By: Leonilo D. Lopido (RDRRMC) in Eastern Visayas has conducted another meeting this afternoon at the Office of Civil Defense 8 to ensure that preparedness measures are in place as Tropical Storm Ursula enters the Philippine Area of Responsibility.

In its latest weather bulletin issued at 8 p.m. today, Dec. 23, Pagasa forecast revealed that TS

Ursula has maintained its strength as it continue to move toward Eastern Visayas packing a maximum sustained winds of up to 75 km/h near the center and gustiness of up to 90 km/h.

Pagasa Tacloban chief Mario Peñaranda said Ursula is expected to hit Eastern Samar by 12 noon tomorrow most likely in

SP declares Eastern Samar under State of Calamity By: Ninfa Barcena-Quirante

BORONGAN CITY -- The Eastern Samar Provincial Board with Acting Vice-Gov. SBM Virginia R. Zacate convened the Sangguninag Panlalawigan (SP) on December 27, 2019 for the declaration of the entire Eastern Samar as under a State of Calamity due to Typhoon Ursula.

This was done after the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) recommended the declaration yesterday, due to massive damage to lifelines, properties, crops and communication.

The SP in its response said, it needed to provide emergency relief to those affected by the typhoon.

Reported severely hit were the southern municipalities of

Maydolong, Balangkayan, Hernani, Llorente, Gen. MacArthur, Salcedo, Mercedes and Guiuan.

On the southwest part are Quinapondan, Giporlos, Balangiga and Lawaan which too suffered heavily from the typhoon.

Gov. Bn Evardone initially ordered some 650 bags of rice to be given to the victims.

On Christmas Day, Dec, 25, rookie cops and personnel of the PSWDO repacked food packs.

Ms. Merla from PSWDO said they were preparing for some 8 thousand food packs composed of rice, noodles, corned beef, beef loaf, sardines and coffee. (nbq/PIA 8-E. Samar with reports from Franklin Robedizo)

the town of Guiuan, then will be very close to Tacloban between 3 p.m. - 5 p.m. Heavy rains and gusty winds will be experienced, he added.

“Medyo mabilis siya, so by Dec. 25, medyo malayo na yung bagyo, definitely we will have an improved weather by the 25th (in Eastern Visayas),” he said.

Peñaranda said the region will start to experience moderate to heavy rains early morning of Dec. 24.

Rey Gozon, OIC regional director of OCD-8, who presided over the meeting, emphasized the need to conduct said Pre-Disaster Risk Assessment (PDRA) meeting to achieve zero casualty.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government has already sent out a press release today intended for the local government units and the general public to follow the LISTO protocol as most LGUs in Region 8 are on Alert Charlie and Bravo.

“LISTO protocol combines all varying levels of preparations by local government units depending on how far they are from the center of the track of the tropical storm,” DILG-8 DRRM focal person Ian Colasito said.

“If you are right in the middle of the track of the tropical storm, you have been under alert Charlie, the highest level of preparations and the most number of preparations that has to be made by local government units,” he said adding that for Alert Bravo,

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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

December 16-31, 2019

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Faster restoration of power lines in Samar, E. Samar seen TACLOBAN CITY -- The arrival of the 55 linemen coming from Mindanao will expedite the restoration of power lines damaged

by Typhoon Ursula in Samar and Eastern Samar.

On their second day in Eastern Samar, the Task Force Ursula conducted rehabilitation and replacement of the fallen electric posts from Quinapondan to Lawaan.

Congressman Sergio Dagooc of APEC Party List led the 55 linemen coming from Agusan Del Norte EC (ANECO) , Agusan Del Sur EC (ASELCO) , Northern Davao EC (NORDECO) , Surigao Del Norte EC (SURNECO) Surigao Del Sur I EC (SURSECO I) , Surigao Del Sur II EC (SURSECO II), Siargao EC (SIARELCO), and Dinagat Island EC (DIELCO), who arrived on Saturday at Don Orestes Romualdez Electric Cooperative (DORELCO), Tolosa, Leyte for the orientation and dispatch of the Task Force Ursula Linemen.

The Task Force Ursula travelled two (2)days to reach Leyte, bringing with them seven (7) heavy equipments that will surely help hasten the restoration in the Region.

GM Joey Talon, General Manager of SAMELCO II and GM Edwin Amancio of ESAMELCO presented the extent of damage of the typhoon to their coverage areas.

SAMELCO II and ESAMELCO were the most heavily devastated Electric Cooperatives in Region 8 by Typhoon Ursula.

GM Allan Laniba of LEYECO III and President of the National Association of General

Managers Electric Cooperatives (NAGMEC), thanked the good Congressman Dagooc for the immediate help in Region 8 ECs.

“Once again, we have shown true Solidarity and Bayanihan with this Task Force, thank you for answering our call for help thru Cong. Dagooc and the One-EC-MCO Movement, instead of celebrating New Year with your families, you chose to spend it here restoring the lines far away from your home,” Laniba said Cong. Dagooc also thanked and appreciated the 55 linemen who immediately responded to the PRRD Task Force Ursula.

“I have been a lineman for 9 years, after the Super Typhoon Yolanda nag Task Force din ako dito sa Leyte, natutulog kami sa ilalim ng Boom Truck dahil sira lahat ng bahay at opisina. Kaya alam ko ang paghihirap niyo.

Maraming salamat sa inyong sakripisyo, na kahit dito kayo mag New Year, tumulong parin kayo”

The APEC Congressman, it was learned, donated Php 220,000 to the Task Force for their daily needs during restoration. (PIA8)

One of the electric coop that responded to Power Restoration Rapid Deployment Task Force to give E. Visayas a brighter new year.

Biliran Electric Coop activates Oplan Task Force Ursula

NAVAL, Biliran, Dec 23 -- The Biliran Electric Cooperative Inc. activated OPLAN Task Force Ursula and established an Emergency Restoration Plan today as preparation for the impending onslaught of Typhoon Ursula that is expected to make landfall tomorrow afternoon or evening, December 24 along Leyte-Samar areas according to PAG-ASA.

As standard operating procedure, seven crew were created and were assigned per district to serve as quick response team in case of any reported power outages and damage to power lines. Task Force Ursula is created to ensure systematic operational procedures in the conduct of restoration and rehabilitation efforts.

Its ultimate aim is to restore back the power as soon

continued on page 15

12

December 16-31, 2019

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA All roads in East Samar via Basey or via Buray are passable

Biliran PLGU to declare state of calamity By: Mary Lailani P. Tupaz NAVAL, Biliran -- On motion of PSWDO OIC Lissa Bermillo, Gov. Rogelio Espina, approved the move to declare the entire province of Biliran under the state of calamity after the onslaught of Typhoon Ursula.

The move was raised during the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) - Rapid Damage and Needs Assessment (RDANA) meeting held at the PDRRMC Operation Center.

Initial reports at PDRRMC Opcen recorded one dead, five injured, one missing, 6,760 partially damaged houses, 768 totally damaged houses , and 1,050 families served in evacuation centers.

Naval Water District (NWD) OIC Manager Mark SereĂąo reported damaged water transmission pipes in Barangays Atipolo, Agpangi, Sabang, and Caraycaray.

Thus, water supply in these barangays was temporarily cut.

Moreover, all three barangays were supplied with water again and rehabilitation is ongoing at Brgy. Caraycaray today.

Engr. Gerardo Oledan,

manager of Biliran Electric Cooperative, Inc. (BILECO, announced during said meeting that the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) can give Biliran the needed electricity this afternoon.

With the availability of the electricity from the NGCP, BILECO will try to energize Naval, particularly the town proper tonight.

Prior to his announcement, he initially reported to energize the municipalities of Biliran, Naval, and Cabucgayan on December 27, Caibiran on December 31, and the municipalities of Almeria, Kawayan, and Culaba on January 1, 2020.

Other agencies are still monitoring damages in their areas of concern for reporting to the PDRRMC. Gov. Espina is called on other agencies to submit their reports the soonest to support the Sangguniang Panlalawigan resolution declaring the entire province of Biliran under the state of calamity and provision to needs from damage be responded the immediately. (mlt/PIA8 Biliran)

TACLOBAN CITY -- Despite the onslaught of Ursula on December 24, all roads in Eastern Samar either via Basey or via Buray, are all passable, Governor Ben Evardone said.

This, he said, is based on the roads and bridges report as of 6:00 pm, December 25, 2019 of the DPWH Eastern Samar District Engineering Office.

Wright-Taft-Borongan Road (K0861+(-439) K0890+176) is passable to all types of vehicles.

Wright-Taft-Borongan Road (K0891+(-755) K0902+000) is also passable to all types of vehicles.

At the Wright-TaftBorongan Road, (K0902+000 - K0923+605), there was a landslide and fallen debris at K0914+920, Brgy. Libas, San Julian town.

Half- lane is passable to all types of vehicles as of 9:30 p.m. Dec. 24, 2019.

Borongan- Guiuan Road, (K0924+(-408) - K0944+000) is passable to all types of vehicles.

Along Borongan- Guiuan Road. (K0944+000 K0985+000) there was flooding at K0963+950-K0964+000, Balangkayan town as of 4:30 p.m. but the same is now passable to all types of vehicles as of 11 p.m. Dec. 24, 2019.

continued on page 21

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

December 16-31, 2019

13

ESAMELCO restores electricity to 44K Typhoon Ursula-affected HHs in E. Samar By: Ninfa Barcena-Quirante

BORONGAN CITY -- The Eastern Samar Electric Cooperative (ESAMLECO) has restored electricity in 44, 843 households in Eastern Samar.

This was the report made

OPV assures ASF-free Biliran this holiday season By: Mary Lailani P. Tupaz NAVAL, Biliran -- The Office of the Provincial Veterinarian (OPV) Biliran assures Biliranons of safe pork and other pork products this holiday season despite the threat of African Swin Fever (ASF) in Luzon and other parts of the world.

Dr. Suzette B. Apura, provincial veterinarian, disclosed during her recent guesting at the Pulong-Pulong ng Bayan hosted

by PIA-Biliran over Radyo NatinNaval, that though ASF infected meat may be harmless for human, it is catastrophic to livestock industry in a way that it will totally swipe the hog population in the affected area.

Thus, Gov. Rogelio Espina of the provincial government of Biliran issued in October 2019 Executive Orders 18 and 019 to stop the possible ASF contamination in the province.

EO 018 orders the adoption of ASF Provincial Preparedness and Contingency Plan and creation of Provincial ASF Task Force while EO 019 regulates the entry of live hogs and pork products in the province.

continued on page 15

by Gen. Manager John Michael Edwin Amancio to the public in a presscon aired over DYVW on December 27, 2019.

Amancio said that 90, 751 households in the province were affected by Typhoon Ursula.

Typhoon Ursula lashed out at the southern part of the province causing blackout in the whole E. Samar on December 24, 2019.

The state weather bureau reported that Typhoon Ursula had its first landfall in Salcedo town in the afternoon of December 24.

Last night, Esamelco restored electricity in downtown Borongan.

The electric power was readily restored in the northern municipalities, from San Julian to Jipapad just a day after Christmas.

Today, the manager promised it could restore power in Maydolong town, some 20 kilometer south of the capital city.

As to Balangkayan to Guiuan down south, and southwest Lawaan, the manager targeted December 30, 2019 to restore the central areas at the very least.

Task Force Tulong Kapatid will be sending in some eight teams from the different electric coops to assist the restoration efforts of ESAMELCO, said Amancio.

The general manager though appealed that barangay folks help them through clearing the thick vegetation near the powerlines.

“Tulungan niyo po yung linemen natin para mas mabilis nilang magagawa yung kanilang trabaho,” Amancio said.

“Sana ho matanggal na yung mga kahoy o sanga na nakadagan sa mga electric wires, tulong tulong ho tayo,” he said.

He also asked them not to interfere with the linemen’s job because he said their job order is in sequence, and if someone will ask them to do a job elsewhere, the workload will not be finished on time.

With the coming of the different ‘assist teams’ Amancio assured the Estehanons of a ‘bright’ new year. (nbq/PIA 8 E-Samar)

14

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA NGCP, Norsamelco restore power lines in some parts of Northern Samar

December 16-31, 2019

By: Teresita B. Cardenas

E-jeepney now plies V&G - Tacloban routes By: Rey S. Perosa

TACLOBAN CITY -- The first Electric Jeepney is now operating in all routes in V&G Subdivision, the biggest subdivision in Tacloban City.

The franchise line is under the Central Tacloban Transport Cooperative (CETRANCO).

Only a single unit is currently

operating with route at Phase 4 Extension to Phase 2B to downtown Tacloban. The full operation will be in January 2020.

According to Jose Rubi, the e-jeep driver, 30 units will be made available by January 2020.

Roughly 100 units will be available in Tacloban.(rp/PIA8)

BILECO says 5 of 7 Biliran towns already energized By: Rodrigo S. Victoria

NAVAL, Biliran -- Biliran Electric Cooperative General Manager Engr. Gerardo N. Oledan, disclosed that five out of the seven towns in Biliran Province have been energized.

These are Biliran, Naval,

Cabucgayan, Almeria and Caibiran.

However, he clarified that the energization were only in the town proper of the aforementioned towns, including some of

continued on page 22

CATARMAN, Northern Samar -– The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) in cooperation with the Northern Samar Electric Cooperative (Norsamelco) continued its effort to restore transmission lines after Typhoon Tisoy devastated the province of Northern Samar.

Norsamelco General Manager Hector Tabilisma said that around 400 poles have been pulled out from their warehouse to replace the destroyed and toppled down electric poles at the height of Typhoon Tisoy on December 2.

A total of 120 linemen from 10 electric cooperatives throughout the region working from 6:00 in the morning till 6:00 in the afternoon have been deployed to the affected areas to expedite restoration works, he said.

The cooperative general manager informed that as of December 10, NGCP has energized 3 substations, the Bobon Substations which serves Catarman, Bobon, San Jose, Rosario, Mondragon, San Roque, Lope de Vega and SilvinoLubos while Allen substation serves the municipalities of Allen, Lavezares, Victoria and San isidro.

The Laoang Substations serves Pambujan, Catubig, Las Navas, Laoang, Palapag, Mapanas, Gamay, and Lapinig.

As of today only six town centers are not yet energized namely: Catubig, Las Navas, SilvinoLubos, Capul, Biri and

continued on page 15

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA “Army official..” continued from page 2

“Biliran Electric.” continued from page 11

(We realize now that the civilians are with us.)

“Lalo naming pag-iibayuhin ang aming trabaho, dahil andyan kayo, kakampi namin,”

[We will exert more effort to do our mandate because you (the civilians) are with us] said the DPAO Chief.

Aragones was referring to the ambush of a police car on December 13, 2019 where a tryke load of people happen to pass in the ambush site.

One Agripina Traboco from San Isidro, San Julian died on the spot, while Pat. Mark Jerome Rama, a policeman also died on the spot in Brgy. Libuton, Borongan City.

An LGU van was also involved in the crossfire where the driver Anthony Balayanto died on the spot.

Some 18 more civilians and policemen were injured in the ambush, and were evacuated to hospitals in Tacloban City.

On December 18, one more seriously injured victim, Mary Gracae Rapada, 44 died while being treated in a Tacloban hospital.

Relatives of the victim informed that Rapada stayed in coma since the incident on December 13, 2019.

The other wounded civilians have been discharged but are still prevented from doing their usual activities. (nbq/PIA 8-E. Samar)

as possible with zero accident occurrence.

Member-consumerowners (MCOs) of BILECO are advised to take precautionary measures and observe necessary preparations.

As early as now, charge all your rechargeable equipment such as mobile phones, radios, emergency lamps, etc.

Always stay updated of weather news and plan ahead. In case of emergency, please contact our hotline numbers 0905255-9119 or 0948-674-9991 for immediate response. (BILECO)

www.pia.gov.ph

“NGCP, Norsamelco...” continued from page 14 San Vicente but Norsamelco promised to exert its best effort to light up the remaining towns before Christmas, he stressed.

NGCP’s task is to ensure that the country’s transmission lines are in optimal condition to convey safe, quality, and reliable electricity while Norsamleco takes care of the distribution lines to the household consumers. (nbq/TBC/ PIA8NorthernSamar)

December 16-31, 2019

15

“OPV assures...” continued from page 13

As lead implementor of said executive orders, the OPV installed quarantine checkpoints at the Biliran town entry point and at the Naval Port .

Moreover, Biliranons need not fret over the possible scarcity of pork supply during the holiday season as the OPV still allows outside Biliran live hog suppliers as long as they comply with the necessary documents required of them, according to Dr. Apura.

Suppliers need to go to the OPV for the list of required documents for compliance and to facilitate their applications for entry permit.

The ban on the entry of live hogs and pork products in the province of Biliran ends on January 3, 2020, Dr. Apura added. (nbq/mlt/ PIA8 Biliran)

“YLS..” continued from page 2 were invited to educate the youth on their role in nation building and as catalysts for peace and development.

The facilitators also conducted team building activities to develop unity and camaraderie among the youth.

Moreover, the participants were given the chance to showcase their talents during the YLS Got Talent 2019.

16

December 16-31, 2019

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

BPHO stresses healthy lifestyle in the midst of merrymaking By: Mary Lailani P. Tupaz NAVAL, Biliran -- The Biliran Provincial Health Office reminds Biliranons to observe healthy lifestyle as they celebrate the holidays in the abundance of food in parties and reunions.

Vanessa Ramirez, health education and promotions officer and at the same time hypertension and diabetes coordinator, reminded those aged above 40 and taking maintenance medicines to be cautious with their food intake and habits especially during this holiday season and long vacation spent with love one, families, and friends.

The vulnerable ones may indulge in over eating and drinking during parties and gatherings that may result to hypertension, diabetes, and other health related diseases, she said.

Ramirez mentioned diet, physical inactivity, smoking, and excessive alcohol intake as risk factors for hypertension and diabetes.

With the times spent with families and friends, those above 40 are reminded to watch their food intake and observe daily physical activity. Those taking maintenance medicines were also reminded to take their maintenance drugs religiously.

Aside from watching their

PIA 8 year-end assessment recognizes best performers for 2019 By: Ma. Rebecca G. Cadavos

TANAUAN, Leyte -- As the year 2019 is about to end, the Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-Regional Office VIII recognized outstanding performers during the Year-End Performance Assessment and Christmas Fellowship held at Haiyan Hotel and Resorts in Tanauan, Leyte December 19-20, this year.

Regional Director Erlinda Olivia P. Tiu awarded the outstanding performers both the Information Center and Individual Performers.

Among the awards given were News Producer of the Year and DRID Producer of the Year that were awarded to Southern Leyte Information Center; and SitRep Producer of the Year to Northern Samar Infocen, for Information Center category.

While some of the individcontinued on page 22 ual category recognized were Best Employee of the Year, News Writer of the Year, Video/photographer of the Year, Most Promising Writer of the Year, among the few.

Director Tiu also distributed

Christmas gifts/giveaways to all employees who participated whether permanent or casual/contractual in status during the yearend assessment and Christmas Fellowship.

In her message, Tiu was thankful for all the support of team ocho, saying, “Our agency endeavours to inform and empower not only Eastern Visayans but the nation as well with timely, accurate and relevant information using traditional and modern platforms.”

She said that PIA 8 has already implemented several innovative actions, quoting an example such as those situation reports that were not only submitted at PIA8 chat groups but were also posted on facebook pages while some personnel posted at their personal accounts, not to mention viber groups and chat groups of Infoncenter Managers.

“I am happy for the overall performance of the whole region though it still needs improvement

continued on page 20

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

December 16-31, 2019 17

2019 PSCT champions crowned in Borongan City By: PIA E Samar BORONGAN CITY -- The Championship Awarding of the 2019 Philippine Surfing Championship Tour (PSCT) champion surfers took place in Borongan City on December 20, 2019.

Jay-r Esquivel dominated the competition as back-to-back champion of both Men’s Longboard and Shortboard divisions during the fourth and final leg.

Esquivel from La Union also showed a powerful performance during the Siargao,,Guiuan and La Union surfing leg.

Women’s Longboard Champion is Ikit Agudo, Juniors Shortboard Champion, Jomarie Ebueza and Women’s Shortboard Champion, Nilbie Blancada.

Crowd drawer Ikit Agudo with her superb tan and charm could also pass a beauty queen with her good looks.

The overall Grand Champions of the 4 legs from Siargao to Calicoan, La Union and Borongan, with Php30,000 cash prize each are Daisy Nerida Valdez of La Union, Women’s Longboard Grand Champion; Jay-r Esquivel of La Union, Men’s Longboard Grand Champion; Gabriel Lerog of Siargao, Juniors Shortboard Grand Champion; Nilbie Blancada of Siargao, Women’s Shortboard Grand Champion; and John Mark “Marama” Tokong of Siargao, Men’s Shortboard Grand Champion.

The best local surfers Jenard Aboy, Reckynalds Rosel and Marionil Capacite were also awarded.

Getting some media attention was Roger Casugay who became famous for saving an Indonesian competitor in the SEA games.

Hon. Emmanuel Tiu Sonco

announced during his opening speech that the Surf in the City will be held again next year here in Borongan.

Organizers, coaches and competitors expressed their gratitude and excitement for next year’s event. “I’d been here many years ago at malaki na po ang pinagbago at napakalaki ng potensyal ng lugar ninyo. Sana alagaan niyo po ang lugar at ang inyong mga atleta na may potensyal para makarating din

sila sa surf circuit at makapag-compete sa iba’t-ibang lugar,” said a coach from Zambales during the awarding.

Next year’s Surf in the City is expected to draw more competitors and visitors in Borongan City.

Around 200 surfers from surfing destinations I Siargao, La Union, Sorsogon, Baler, Catanduanes and even from Northern Samar showed up for the big event. (PSCT and the Borongan City Information Office)

18

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

December 16-31, 2019

Youth leaders in Brgy. Pandol and its nearby barangays in Can-avid, Eastern Samar are in attendance during the three-day Youth Leadership Summit conducted recently by the MTF-ELCAC of Can-avid and the 14 IB.

NGCP distributes relief goods to Typhoon Tisoy-affected families By: Teresita B. Cardenas CATARMAN, Northern Samar -- As part of their corporate social responsibility, the

National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) distributed relief goodies to the victims

pia.gov.ph

of Typhoon Tisoy particularly to families with totally damaged houses at the Municipal Covered Court of Catarman on December 11.

A total of 946 families badly hit by Typhoon Tisoy received packs of relief goods said Ms. Bambi Capulong, NGCP Eastern Visayas regional communications and public affairs officer.

Capulong said, inside a 15 liter plastic mega box are rice, corned beef, toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, slippers, blanket, flashlight with batteries, sanitary pad, energy drink, 1 set spoon and fork, first aid kit, distilled water, underwear, t-shirt and disposable cap.

These homeless individuals who are presently taking shelter at the Municipal Covered Court still need food items, canned goods, shelter repair materials such as plywood, GI sheets, nails, good lumber, among others.

Apart from Catarman, NGCP will also give relief goods to heavily affected residents of Brgy.

Cabacungan, Allen on Tuesday, Dec. 17.

Capulong was joined by Vice Governor Gary Lavin, NGCP Assistant Vice President and Head of Visayas Operations and Maintenance Virgilio Sanchez, and District Senior Manager of Leyte and Samar Lope Canete. (NBQ/TBC-PIA8/ NorthernSamar)

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

December 16-31, 2019

19

TESDA-Leyte amplifies rice extension services program in the province TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte -- The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in Leyte has started the implementation of the Rice Extension Services Program (RESP) to improve rice farmers’ competitiveness and income amidst liberalization of the Philippine rice trade policy under the Rice Tariffication Law or RA 11203.

Assistant Regional Director/ TESDA Leyte Provincial Director Loreta D. Banario said that through the scholarship program under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF), the rice farmers would be able to learn technologies to improve their farming and ultimately reduce cost in the post-production process and increase their yield.

There is a total of 2,425 farmers who are benefiting the scholarship program. A total of 125 are currently training in Rice Machinery Operations NC II while 2,300 farmers are training

Assistant Regional Director/TESDA Leyte Provincial Director Loreta D. Banario conducting a Training Induction Program held at Sabang Daguitan, Dulag Leyte on December 19, 2019 to 125 rice farmers from Dulag, Leyte provided by Juanito Eco Farm and School for Practical Agriculture. (TESDA Leyte)

in Farmers Field School (FFS)Production of High-Quality Inbred Rice and Farm Mechanization.

Whereas, the farm schools providing the training for the farmers are: Alde Farm, Andreley’s Farm, La Granja Farmers and Agri-Ventures Association, Bibar’s Farm, GOLD Farm, Ormoc Rice Seed Growers Farm, and Juanito Eco Farm and School for Practical Agriculture.

TESDA Leyte looks forward on the registration of the farm schools in new programs such as Drying and Milling Plant Servicing NCIII, Small Engine Servicing (Leading to Small Engine Servicing NC Il), and other FFS programs in the year 2020.

(TESDA-Leyte)

ESAMELCO linemen, working to restore services to consumers. Power lines were damaged by TS Ursula.

20

December 16-31, 2019

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

“Borongan City...” continued from page 6

“Pumasok sa klase at pandayin ang iyong kinabukasan, hiwag umanib sa mga kilos protesta,” (Go to school, shape your future through education, do not join leftist protests.) Eloja said.

He then urged the parents: “Bantayan ninyo ang inyong mga anak!”

Eloja then asked those present to support Executive Order Number 70 or Task Force End

Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC).

“Let us denounce /condemn all forms of violence, terrorism and atrocities and support peace and development building initiatives of the present government.”

The rallyists also held a pledge of commitment to support ELCAC/ denounce the CTG/NPA/ NDF/CPP/NPA).

aming pamumuhay.”

The NSB, part of DTI Region 8’s Breakthrough Goals 2019, do not only measure clients assisted, but recognizes the impact it brings to the communities by making government services more accessible to the people. (DTI-8)

“PIA 8..” continued from page 16 so that we will not be left behind,” Tiu said .

“Continue being inspired and motivated for the good of PIA Team,” she added.

Among other activities were charting and targeting of activities and plans for the year 2020 afterwhich a fellowship dinner and Christmas presentations from the different provinces and some parlor games were conducted and enjoyed by the whole team. (rgc/ PIA8-SoLeyte)

“Maasin City...” continued from page 6 has done and how these programs and projects can help to them and at the same time prevent them from participating in illegal activities such as terrorism ,” Nalda said.

Meanwhile, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) through Fire Officer III Raul A. Inocando presented operational procedures in times of emergencies.

He said that assessment should be done first saying “assess first the situation and know how big the situation is.”

City Mayor Nacional V. Mercado who delivered his short message motivated the tanods to do their best as they

“DTI 8...” continued from page 5

are an important workforce at the barangay level. “You are agents of persons in authority,” he said.

The refresher training cum annual general assembly was spearheaded by the city government of Maasin through the City Management Coordinating Committee in close coordination with the DILG and the Liga nga mga Barangay, according to Local Government Operations Officer II Ma. Imelda A. Orilla. (rgc/PIA8-SoLeyte)

“Don’t give...” continued from page 1 give in to NPA extortion because demand is lesser than threats and fear of reprisal. They feel threatened and intimidated.

Moreover, they do not know whom to ask for help, do not know what to do - HOPELESS. Finally, they do not know the severe consequences of supporting the NPA.

The meeting was an eye-opener to most of the participants who expressed support to EO 70.

Diñoso said that the PLEDS sector will continue to engage the contractors. (PIA-8)

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

December 16-31, 2019

21

“Death toll...” continued from page 9 Certificate to follow.

- Rix Jhun S. Rosal, 18, M, of Sitio Bunal, Poblacion, Kananga, Leyte, for alleged drowning, Death Certificate to follow.

- Escoto, Bernard (Fire related incident) 60, M, of Paseo de Legazpi, Tacloban City for sudden cardiac arrest due to 2nd and 3rd degree flare burns 30% total body surface area (previously reported as admitted but according to the latest report of EVRMC, Escoto died due to sudden cardiac arrest) Death Certificate to follow.

- Placido Maine Arpon, 59, M of Barugo, Leyte for Drowning (Cadaver brought to EVRMC for death pronouncement), Death Certificate to follow.

From BILIRAN, Reymark Can~ete, 27, M, of Brgy Pawikan, Cabucgayan , Biliran for Asphyxia and anoxia secondary to being struck by a fallen mango branch; alcohol intoxication, Death Certificate to follow.

From EASTERN SAMAR, - Carlos Beltran Yu, 70, M, of Brgy.

3, Balangkayan, Eastern Samar for Alleged Drowning, Death Certificate to follow.

- Wilson Ogatio Quizo, 26, M of Brgy. Hollywood, Guiuan, Eastern Samar for Acute Head Injury, Death Certificate to follow.

- Macario Sabaldan , 77, M, of Brgy.

San Juan, Guiuan, Eastern Samar for Head Injury. Validated by DOH, awaiting death certificate.

- Fel Lavella Tabiliran, 42, M, of Brgy. Sabang South, Borongan City for Alleged Drowning (previously reported as missing; found dead December 28, 2019 at Brgy Locsoon, Borongan).

Death Certificate for

issuance (confirmed by Dr. Daisy Sacmar, CHO and PHO East Samar).

- Artemio Yban~ez, 55, M, of Brgy. Pepelitan, Borongan City for Alleged Drowning (previously reported as missing; found dead December 26, 2019).

Death Certificate for issuance

(confirmed by Dr. Daisy Sacmar, CHO and PHO East Samar).

From SAMAR, Maria Jessica Carpio, 29, F, Brgy. Roxas, Basey, Samar for Alleged crushing injury due to fallen coconut tree (Dead on Arrival – referred to EVRMC), with Trauma and Dead on Arrival Report. (PIA 8)

“All roads..” continued from page 12

There was an occurence of fallen trees on electrical wire at K0955+500, Brgy. Omawas, Maydolong town, thus, only half lane is passable to all types of vehicles between 6-11 p.m.

December 24. Clearing operation now ongoing.

There were fallen trees on electrical wires at K0960+455, Maydolong, so only half lane is passable to all types of vehicle.

Fallen coconut trees at K0961+000-K0962+000, Brgy.

Kampakirit, Maydolong, caused the use of half lane only to all types of vehicles while clearing operation is ongoing.

Fallen trees on electric posts at K0978+010, Llorente, also caused only half lane passable to all types of vehicles while clearing operation is ongoing.

Fallen electric posts on the road at K0984+800-K0985+000, Brgy.

Piliw, Llorente, caused the use of half lane only.

Half lane only is used in the following roads due to fallen electric posts on the road at K0990+000, Brgy.

Canciledes, Hernani; fallen trees at K0991+800-K0992+000, Brgy. Padang, Hernani; and fallen electric post on the road at K0993+350-K0994+000, Hernani.

The BORONGAN GUIUAN ROAD, (K0944+000

- K1015+480); S00171SM, BORONGAN - GUIUAN ROAD, (K1016+(-528) - K1026+000) is passable to all types of vehicles.

Meanwhile, the BORONGAN GUIUAN ROAD, (K1026+000 - K1049+152); The GUIUANSULANGAN PENINSULA ROAD, (K1049+(-826) K1067+397); are all passable to all types of vehicles.

Only half lane is passable to all types of vehicles at JCT. BUENAVISTALAWAAN-MARABUT ROAD SECTION,(K0952+(-828) K0996+238) due to fallen electric posts at K0954+000-K0955+000, Brgy. Guinob-an, Lawaan, at K0957+000, Brgy. Bitaog, Lawaan, at K0974+600-K0975+000, Brgy. Parena, Giporlos, and at K0988+500-K0989+000, Brgy.

Sto. Niño, Quinapondan town.

The JCT. TAFT-ORASSAN POLICARPO-ARTECHE ROAD, ( K0891+(-814) K0932+000), the JCT. TAFTORAS-SAN POLICARPOARTECHE ROAD, (K0932+000 - K0969+970); S00137SM, ARTECHE-JIPAPAD-LAS NAVAS-RAWIS ROAD, (K0968+(-088) - K0973+645); ARTECHE-JIPAPAD-LAS NAVAS-RAWIS ROAD, (K0973+645 - K0977+272), are all passable to all types of vehicles. (PIA-8)

22

December 16-31, 2019

“RDRRMC..” continued from page 8

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA “BILECO...” continued from page 14

their barangays where damages to electrical posts and lines were just 16, 2019 until January 5, 2020. minimal and were already fixed.

This is in anticipation

He said that the Bileco of any untoward event that may linemen and other technical peroccur not only in celebration of sonnel will continue power restothe Christmas season and the ration works to still unenergized new year but also of the aptowns of Kawayan and Culaba, proaching tropical depression. including the barangays of the five

DTI OIC Assistant energized towns.

Regional Director Meilou

He also called for the underMacabare told the council that standing and patience of the memtheir provincial heads were ber-owner-consumers (MCOs) already instructed to conduct whose residences at this point in monitoring of the prices and time have not yet been energized. supplies of basic commodities Like in past major weather including construction materials. disturbances affecting the delivery

The Philippine of power services in the entire area Information Agency, on the coverage, the BILECO management other hand, informed the coungave the assurance to do the fastest cil that PIA Regional Director Erlinda Olivia P. Tiu has already and best way possible, without compromising the safety of the MCOs, alerted all Information Center and the general public, Oledan Managers and other personnel emphasized. (rsv/PIA Biliran) concerned to be on alert and do their barangays where damages to 24-hour monitoring in their respective AOR’s and send sitrepts/ electrical posts and lines were just alerts for public awareness.

Based on Pagasa’s forecast at 5 a.m. today, December 22, the tropical depression which is still outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility is expected to enter PAR either tonight or tomorrow morning and may landfall either in Mindanao or Visayas region, and if the track will remain, it may affect Eastern Visayas. (LDL/CBA/PIA-8)

“BPHO..” continued from page 16 health habits, Ramirez reminded everyone not to indulge so much in drinking alcoholic beverages especially when driving to avoid vehicular accidents.

“When you drink, don’t drive. When you drive, don’t drink,” she added. (mlt/PIA8 Biliran)

minimal and were already fixed.

He said that the Bileco linemen and other technical personnel will continue power restoration works to still unenergized towns of Kawayan and Culaba, including the barangays of the five energized towns.

He also called for the understanding and patience of the member-owner-consumers (MCOs) whose residences at this point in time have not yet been energized.

Like in past major weather disturbances affecting the delivery of power services in the entire area coverage, the BILECO management gave the assurance to do the fastest and best way possible, without compromising the safety of the MCOs, and the general public, Oledan emphasized. (rsv/PIA Biliran)

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

December 16-31, 2019

23

“RDRRMC 8 ..” continued from page 10 preparations made by LGUs are to a lesser extent.

DILG Regional Director Artemio Caneja said in the agency Facebook Post, “Governors, Mayors and Punong Barangays have to be in their areas of responsibility and should start actions pursuant to Listong Pamahalaang Lokal such as convening the local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (DRRMC), activating the Operations Center, prepositioning relief and response, informing residents, preparing evacuation centers and holding preemptive evacuations, especially in hazard-prone areas.”

The Philippine Coast Guard in the region has cancelled all sea trips and has conducted coastal patrol to advice fisherfolks following the 11 a.m. Pagasa weather bulletin wherein all provinces in the region were placed under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1.

Meilo Macabare, OIC assistant regional director of the Department of Trade and Industry reported that their provincial directors were directed to instruct field/price monitors to conduct price monitoring in preparation for the typhoon.

“DTI provincial offices has intensified the conduct of monitoring of prices and supply of basic necessities and prime commodities including construction materials in key trading centers in the provinces,” Macabare said.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development has standby

fund of over one million pesos as well as stockpiles of food and non-food items.

Food items include 6,416 family food packs; 563 sacks of NFA rice; 5,556 tins of beef loaf; 5,053 tins of coned beef; 144,644 sachets of coffee; 2,000 pices of blankets; and 6,029 pieces of malong.

Gozon has requested the DSWD to ensure that food and non-food items have to be prepositioned to avoid delays.

The National Food Authority in the region has also enough stocks of rice.

The Philippine National Police in the region has already declared full alert status in all provinces and has 673 search and rescue trained personnel on standby.

All stations of the Bureau of Fire Protection in the region are also in full alert status and ready to respond to

disaster-related incidents or eventualities due to TS.

Meanwhile, the Department of Health - 8 chief has already issued Code White and disseminated this to all its provincial offices and coordinated with the LGUs.

During the RDRRMC meeting, Gozon has reported the preparations to the NDRRM Operations Center in Manila via teleconferencing together with other RDRRMCs.

Other national government agencies and group which laid down their preparations and response measures include the 8th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, Department of Public Works and Highways, Department of Science and Technology, and Kabalikat Civicom. (PIA-8, Leyte)

Follow An Rehiyon Ocho Yana on Facebook for updates, pictures and news stories

24

December 1-15, 2019

AN REHIYON OCHO YANA

“Fighting poverty...” continued from page 1

“To win insurgency, let’s fight poverty,” Petilla firmly declared at the “Panginsayod” media forum organized by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) held at Hotel Lorenza, this city Friday, Dec. 20, with Erlinda Olivia Tiu, PIA regional director, as the moderator.

Other guests were Boni Cebrian, regional director of the national intelligence and coordinating agency (NICA), and Reynaldo Aragones, a public affairs officer of the Philippine Army based in Catbalogan City.

When asked if the TFELCAC scheme has reached down

to the barangay level in the municipalities, Petilla said he has closely coordinated with the municipalities, and the towns in turn touched base with the barangays.

The governor pointed out that the local government units are at the frontliners on TF-ELCAC implementation, from provinces, municipalities, and barangays, with full support of the poverty-reduction cluster, a convergence of national government agencies that have mandated programs on helping poor individuals or communities, such as TESDA, DOLE, DTI, DOST, among others.

In fact, in one of those convergence gathering in Baybay City gym last October, Petilla reported that he had trekked to far-flung areas and known territories of NPAs in Inopacan, Hindang, and Baybay, and during the program he distributed financial assistance so the communities can start or enhance their livelihood.

“Hindi ko alam whether NPA sila o hindi -- we sit down and talk,” Petilla said in his opening remarks.

But he emphasized that even before the TF-ELCAC wholeof-nation approach under President Duterte’s Executive Order 70 which started in November last year, the Leyte provincial government has pushed the Leyte Economics Program since he came into office since 2013.

Especially after the devastation caused by Yolanda, the Leyte Economics Program has evolved as the right recipe, for it integrated several governance items into a holistic approach to development as a lasting effort to wipe out poverty and want.

These included infrastructure to back up livelihood in remote places, reduction of malnutrition, protection of environment, peace and security programs, social development programs on violence against women and children, youth, and social services on health and education.

On the question on how was the impact of Leyte economics felt, Petilla cited the presence of large companies investing in municipalities instead of cities, the reduction of poverty incidence as per NEDA report, zero malnutrition in barangays reached with opened roads, and the noted increase in the number of farmers -- the only region in the country having such a record.

“I am more on Information Technology (IT), but I focused more on agriculture,” the governor further said. (mmp/PIA8-Southern Leyte)