Caraga InFocus - May 14-20, 2016

Cover DOH commemorates Aids Candlelight Memorial

CONTENTS Volume 1, No. 7

14-20 May 2016

Regional News

7 9 10

Barangay BUB: Bringing participative governance to the barangays OCD Caraga conducts 15-day medical first responder course in AgSur DOLE inks MOA with SurSur state univ for establishment of PESO academe

Provincial News

12 15 16 18 20 21 23 24 25

7 12

DTI provides SSF to women entrepreneurs in AgSur town Surigao Norte to celebrate 115th founding anniversary DOT Caraga releases accredited tourism-related establishments in Siargao Island DENR launches “Operation baklas” in SurSur SurSur Comelec cites good peace and order for feat in May 9 polls Follow-up drive on FAs with expired licenses yields 48 among cops in SurSur AgNor province transfers lot ownership to RTR homeowners DTI-Agusan del Norte holds 2-day ‘Diskwento Caravan’ Negosyo Center Butuan extends labeling assistance to 5 new products developed

Health News

31

28

Smoking and excessive alcoholic drinking a deadly tandem

Mindanao News

32

31

Ombudsman-Mindanao warns people circulating bogus documents on 2 graft cases

National News

32 34

Children now protected during disasters, calamities Public urged to help protect PH waters from climate change impacts

News Briefs The Regional Peace & Order Council (RPOC) Caraga will be launching the region’s Roadmap for Peace on May 24, 2016 at the Robinsons Place, Butuan City. DILG Caraga regional director Lilibeth Famacion said that with the RPOC Caraga’s efforts in upholding peace & order in the region, the Roadmap for Peace was crafted with the active participation & support of the council members & partners.

The Surigao del Norte Provincial Manpower & Training Center (PMTC) is now accepting enrollees for Electrical Installation and Maintenance (EIM). Class schedule is evening, Monday to Friday from 5pm to 8pm (4 months duration). For 25 slots only and first come first serve. To those who are interested just visit the PMTC Office located at Capitol Road, Surigao City.

Pursuant to Proclamation No. 1260, August 2, 2016 is declared a Special Non-Working Day in Butuan City, in celebration of the “Adlaw Hong Butuan.”

The Philippine population hits 100.98 million as of 1 Aug 2016 based on the latest census of the Philippine Statistics Authority (POPCEN2015), this means that the population grew by 8.64 million in five years.

The 30IB, Philippine Army is now accepting registration for the Army Entrance Exam starting today, May 21 to 22, 2016 at the 30IB Headquarters in Sta. Cruz, Placer, Surigao del Norte.

For those who are interested to take the entrance just bring NSO Birth Certificate, TOR & Diploma, Form 137 & Tesda Certificate, Valid ID and, 2x2 picture. The examination for the Candidate Soldier Course, Officer Candidate Course & Officer Preparatory Course will be on May 25-26, 2016 at the 4ID Headquarters in Cagayan de Oro City.

Cover Story DOH commemorates By: Nora C. Lanuza Molde

T

he Department of Health (DOH) on Saturday commemorated the Philippine International AIDS Candlelight Memorial (PIACM) in collaboration with its advocacy partners, The Project Red Ribbon (TRR) and Pilipinas Shell.

4

14-20 MAY 2016

photo: www.maxisciences.com

14-20 MAY 2016

5

In Caraga region, the event was observed at the Guingona Park, this city and attended by employees from different government and nongovernment offices and the religious groups of the region.

The celebration was highlighted with the launching of the Philippine AIDS Hour. Candles were also lighted between six to seven in the evening as a symbol of hope in the quest for solutions to the challenges posted by HIV and AIDS to humanity.

The AIDS Hour is a program aims to further raise the awareness of the public about the importance of practicing safe sex and knowing their status through HIV testing.

According to the Philippine HIV and AIDS Registry, a total of 31,911 cases were tallied nationally of people living with HIV (PLHIV) from 19842016. As of February 2016, there were 751 new Absero-positive individuals confirmed STD/AIDSs Cooperative Central Laboratory (SACCL). Most of the cases were males (96%). Of the 751 HIV positive cases in 2016, 15% were AIDS cases.

The latest disease surveillance report (February, 2016) in Caraga region tallied six new Absero-positive individuals confirmed of STD/AIDSs from SACCL with a total of 13 cases from January, 2016. From 1995, however, HIV cases now totals to 253 with 20 reported HIV-AIDS related deaths. Butuan City remains to have the most number of cases (95) in the region. (PIA-Caraga)

6

photos: DOH-Caraga

14-20 MAY 2016

Barangay BUB: Bringing participative governance to the barangays By: Emmylou P. Burias

BUTUAN CITY -- The implementation of BottomUp Budgeting (BUB) which embodies inclusive growth, participative governance, and people consultation at its very best has been remarkably successful in cities and municipalities all over the country. The gains and benefits of BUB after only three years of implementation have already been felt and so, the national government deemed it appropriate to bring the project down to the barangay level.

Communities are the ultimate beneficiaries of the improved delivery of basic services, development in the barangays will translate to progressive and peaceful communities which would eventually be the over-all picture of the country. This is the overarching goal of Barangay Bottom-Up Budgeting (BBUB).

The Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC) Joint Memorandum Circular 14-20 MAY 2016

(JMC) No. 8 provides the policy guidelines and procedures in the implementation of BBUB. BBUB’s target is to cover all barangays by Fiscal Year (FY) 2019. The pilot phase will cover at least 30 percent of the total number of barangays in 2017 subject

7

REGIONAL NEWS to the criteria provided in the JMC. Recipient barangays will be given PhP1 M through direct downloading of funds to the barangays. It shall be utilized for identified priority projects and activities in line with the delivery of basic services and facilities per section 17 (b) of the Local Government Code (LGC).

process was started in March 2016 through the Barangay Assembly.

For barangays to qualify, they will be assessed on two areas, Good Governance and Capacity to Implement Projects.

Good governance will look into Compliance to Barangay Full Disclosure Policy; Conduct of Barangay Assembly; and Presence of Barangay Development Plan or Annual Investment Plan. Capacity to implement projects assesses leadership; track record; and good financial management.

The objectives of BBUB are reducing the effects of poverty by addressing the most basic needs of communities; encouraging active people’s participation in the implementation of projects in their respective barangays; and strengthening the barangays as the To date, the filled-in assessment primary unit of governance. forms and results of qualified barangays have been forwarded to

In BBUB, barangays officials do the National Barangay Operations not decide on the prioritization of Office (NBOO) of DILG central projects by themselves, community office for consolidation and basis for members are involved in choosing budgetary allocation once approved projects fit for their felt needs. This by Congress. (DILG-Caraga)

8

14-20 MAY 2016

REGIONAL NEWS

OCD Caraga conducts 15-day medical first responder course in AgSur By: April Rose Anne Y. Sanchez

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur -- The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Caraga is conducting the 15-day Medical First Responder (MFR) Course for 23 selected local responders in the region from May 15–28, 2016 at the Agusan del Sur Provincial Learning Center in Prosperidad, this province. These local responders are from Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) councils and non-government organizations (NGO).

The course which covers 23 lessons aims to capacitate the local responders who will become Accredited Disaster Community Disaster Volunteers (ACDVs) in the region. It is also to provide the participants the exact knowledge and skills needed in rendering aid on site to sick or injured persons. Further, it trains the participants on how to stabilize 14-20 MAY 2016

patient’s condition and transport the patient to a medical facility.

The 15-day course involves lecture presentation, interactivelecture group discussion and exercises, individual practical exercises and examination. Activities of the course are graded and serve as bases for either failure or completion

9

REGIONAL NEWS

of participants.

participants,” stressed Dir. Manuel Luis M. Ochotorena, OCD Caraga

“This is a 15-day very stressful Regional Director and RDRRMC course that requires medical and Chairperson. (OCD Caraga) physical fitness clearances of

DOLE inks MOA with SurSur state univ for establishment of PESO academe By: Romelyn Bactol

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in Caraga in partnership with the Surigao del Sur State University (SDSSU) has recently established a public employment service office (PESO) academe in the six campuses of SDSSU.

DOLE Caraga regional director Atty. Evelyn Ramos and SDSSU officer-in-charge Catherine Solomon representing SDSSU university president Dr. Baceledes R. Estal led the signing of the memorandum of agreement (MOA) between DOLE and SDSSU last Apr. 28 at the SDSSU Tandag Campus Board Room, this city.

M. Quico and 24 other PESO Managers from LGUs and academe.

“The role of PESO to DOLE is very significant in terms of accomplishing the programs. They have a direct access in reaching out our constituents - in the public, in our people, and that is a privileged public service. I hope that PESO will continue to engage with us in

The MOA signing was witnessed terms of accomplishing our programs.

by Provincial PESO Manager Marcos Rest assured that our provincial field

10

14-20 MAY 2016

REGIONAL NEWS

office and the regional office would be and Skills Development Authority here to support you,” said Atty. Ramos. (TESDA), and Commission on Higher Education (CHED) can be accessed.

Meanwhile, Solomon revealed that they have more than 2,000 The six campuses of SDSSU are graduates in the last academic year located in Tandag City - the main 2015-2016. This would mean additional campus, Cantilan, Cagwait, San unemployed graduates in Surigao del Miguel, Lianga, and Tagbina. (DOLE) Sur that need to be addressed. Thus, Atty. Ramos emphasized that both DOLE and PESO should work hand in hand in assisting these graduates.

As one of the DOLE’s assistance to SDSSU, a Job Search Kiosk will be assigned to the six campuses to provide labor market information (LMI). This is a stand-alone labor market information system capable of employment facilitation like job search and skills matching facility. Likewise, programs and services of DOLE’s attached agencies and other partner agencies such as the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA), Professional Regulations Commission (PRC), Technical Education 14-20 MAY 2016

11

DTI provides SSF to women entrepreneurs in AgSur town SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur -- The Women’s Association of San Francisco Agusan del Sur, Inc. (WASFADSI) launched recently its Shared Service Facility (SSF) for the Upgrading of Catering Services Project.

12

14-20 MAY 2016

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Ester D. Libo, WASFADSI President thanked the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Agusan del Sur for the opportunity to operate the SSF for the federation’s catering business as well as to make available these facilities for use of its members.

In response, DTI-Agusan del Sur OIC-Provincial Director Brenda B. Corvera asked the group to take good care of the SSF facilities. She reminded the group that they can impose fees for the facilities’ use to allow them to earn income which they can use for their operations as well as set aside for the maintenance and replacement of equipment in the future.

said facilities amounted to P6.14 Million representing 33 percent of the total amount of SSFs in the province.

The federation also manages the training center which was provided the local government unit of San Francisco as a shared facility which accommodates seminars and other functions. As a women’s group it also handles advocacy activities related to violence against women and children (VAWC), assistances directed at women in especially difficult circumstances (WEDC) and the disadvantaged women through skills development training and livelihood opportunities. (DTI-Agusan del Sur)

WASFADSI is the mother organization of all the 27 women’s association in the municipality.

The launching done last April 26, 2016 at the Women Training Center in Brgy. 3 in San Francisco town was attended by the presidents and representatives from these associations.

The SSF for the Upgraded Catering Services included one unit of each of the following: electric rice cooker, stainless preparation table with bottom shelf, chafing dish, food processor, meat grinder, pressure cooker, chest freezer and meat slicer for a total cost of P264, 000.00.

This SSF is one of seven SSFs granted in the municipality of San Francisco to several cooperators. The 14-20 MAY 2016

13

PROVINCIAL NEWS

14

14-20 MAY 2016

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Surigao Norte to celebrate 115th founding anniversary By: Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte -- The provincial government here will celebrate its 15th Founding Anniversary on Sunday, May 15, 2016.

This year’s celebration is anchored on the theme, “SurigaononMapagarbohon sa Probinsya Na Mauswagon (People of SurigaoPrideful of the Prosperous Province).”

T. Matugas, and Surigao City Mayor Ernesto T. Matugas are expected to grace the event.

The celebration is pursuant to Provincial Ordinance No, 01, an ordinance declaring May 15 of every year as Founding Day Anniversary of the province.

According to Provincial Tourism and Culture Officer-in-Charge Arturo M. Cruje, the activity will start at 4:00 a.m. on Sunday with a Diana around downtown of the city to be followed by a holy mass and program at the Provincial Convention Center, here.

Surigao del Norte governor Sol F. Matugas, Dinagat Islands vice governor Benglen B. Ecleo, Surigao del Sur governor Johnny T. Pimentel, 1st District representative Francisco

The celebration will be highlighted with the awarding of Tourism and Culture Awards, Service Excellence Awards, and HEALS Awards. (PIASurigao del Norte)

14-20 MAY 2016

15

PROVINCIAL NEWS

DOT Caraga releases accredited tourismrelated establishments in Siargao Island

rigao del Norte SIARGAO ISLAND, Su epartment -- The office of the D ga region of Tourism (DOT) Cara of accredited has released the list blishments tourism–related esta e as of April (TREs) in the provinc 2016.

Most of these establishments are located in Siargao Island which include Dedon Island Siargao Resort; Isla Cabana Resort; Nermit Surf Resort Siargao; Siargao Blue Resort and Spa; Cherinicole Beach Resort; Esther’s Kitchen at Coffee Shop Restaurant; and Island Vacation Travel and Tours.

Governor Sol F. Matugas has encouraged tourism – related establishments to apply for accreditation with the DOT.

She is glad that the number of accredited establishments has increased which means that there are now more establishments compliant to

Establishments wherein the tourism standard. accreditation is still on process are Jafe Resort; Romantic Beach Villas Resort; “This will make province more Eddie’s Beach Resort; Reef Beach competitive as a tourist destination in Houses Resort; Point 303 Beach Resort; this part of the region,” Matugas said. and Ocean 101 Beach Resort.

(Provincial Tourism and Culture OfficeSurigao del Norte)

16

14-20 MAY 2016

PROVINCIAL NEWS

14-20 MAY 2016

17

PROVINCIAL NEWS

DENR launches “Operation baklas” in SurSur

By: Johny S. Natad

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur -- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Surigao del Sur initiates an “Operation Baklas to Save Trees” from illegal posting of election campaign materials nailed and plastered to trees along the national highway on May 11, 2016.

OIC PENR Officer Raul A. Rosales himself led the team for the said operation which started from Barangay Balibadon of Cortes town to Barangay Dayo-an of Tago town. The election posters taken from the trees during the “Operation Baklas” were turned over to Tandag City Environmental

18

Solid Waste and Management office for recycling and proper disposal as mandated by Republic Act (R.A.) 9003.

“We initiated the tearing down of election campaign posters and commercial advertisements installed on trees along public roads as part of 14-20 MAY 2016

PROVINCIAL NEWS

our mandate to protect and save the part of DENR’s task in accordance trees,” Rosales said. with the Joint DENR-DILG-COMELEC Memo Circular 2013-01 which ensures

“Nailing or stapling a “Basura-Free Election.” advertisements and posters to tree branches or trunks can damage the Meanwhile, PENRO Surigao growth of the trees, and in fact it del Sur Technical Services Division makes trees become harmful and Chief Federico A. Senoc, Jr. bared stressful. The openings caused by the that nailing or stapling of whatever nails hammered or staplers fastened materials on trees is a clear violation to trees could damage the tissues of of Comelec Resolution No. 6616 and trees and make them susceptible from Republic Act 9006, or the Fair Elections fungi and other pathogenic organisms Act, which prohibits the posting of which might kill the trees. It is therefore campaign materials in public places our task to immediately teardown all outside the assigned common poster advertisements nailed and posted on areas. trees to rescue and save them from such destruction,” Rosales explained.

“Comelec Resolution No. 6616 upheld the Presidential Decree No.

The “Operation Baklas to Save 853 and R.A. 3571 which created a Trees” was based on the Presidential task force to monitor violators and tear Decree No. 953 issued on July 1976 down materials found violating the law and R.A. 3571. Under this law, it is during pre and post-election periods,” unlawful to damage or destroy “trees Senoc revealed. “It is for this reason of any kind” in public roads, parks, that the DENR is now implementing plazas or other public areas. this activity and help ensure a clean and green election,” Senoc added.

Rosales also disclosed that (PENRO-Surigao del Sur) “Operation Baklas to Save Trees” is 14-20 MAY 2016

19

PROVINCIAL NEWS

SurSur Comelec cites good peace and order for feat in May 9 polls By: Greg Tataro Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur -- Atty. Raquel Limbaco, provincial election supervisor (PES) here, attributed to good peace and order situation of the province of Surigao del Sur the success of the just concluded May 9, 2016 elections.

r u S l e d o a g Suri

The Comelec provincial chief told already able to proclaim all winners at media that the conduct of the said polls the provincial level after a day or two. was generally peaceful and orderly.

The proclaimed winners were

However, she admitted that the Prospero Pichay, Jr., 1st District and Election Day was not at all that glitch- Johnny T. Pimentel, 2nd District at the free owing to technical problems that congressional level. surfaced, citing that some 79 vote counting machines (VCMs) failed to Likewise, the provincial officials work well, also adding that these were who emerged victors during the addressed anyway by contingency electoral contest were Vicente measures put in place.

Pimentel, Jr. as Governor and Manuel Alameda, Sr. as Vice-Governor.

Meanwhile, Atty. Limbaco had given due credit to both the PNP and With five each in both Districts I AFP here for their show of gallantry and II, the following board members and dedicated service to ensure that were all the same duly proclaimed everything would be alright as far as winners: Eleanor Momo, Glenn Plaza, peace and order was concerned.

Mariano Atacador, Teresita Donasco, and Henrich Pimentel for District

It could be recalled that I; Donell Polizon, Mary Grace Lim, Comelec had always made it a point Rening Nazareno, Pol Suan, and Raul to maintain close coordination with P/ Millan for District II. SSupt. Romaldo Bayting, acting PNP provincial director, and Col. Isidro Surigao del Sur, which is Purisima, commander, 402nd Infantry comprised of two cities and 17 Brigade of the Philippine Army (PA). municipalities, has a reported total of 367,528 number of voters, 310,397

With the just concluded national of which have had actually voted or and local elections, the Provincial voters’ turnout was posted at 84.45 Board of Canvassers (PBOC) here, was percent. (Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag)

20

14-20 MAY 2016

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Follow-up drive on FAs with expired licenses yields 48 among cops in SurSur TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur -- A total of 48 assorted firearms (FAs), mostly .45 caliber pistols—the rest were 9mm caliber pistol, caliber .38, and a shotgun— were “turned-in” by members of the police force themselves to the Police Provincial Office (PPO) here under Provincial Director P/SSupt.

Romaldo Bayting on Friday, May 13.

According to the provincial PNP chief, this was in connection with the conduct of second round drive against FAs with expired licenses.

Concerned owners who availed of the caravan “were issued with acknowledgment receipt of equipment indicating the features and caliber of the turned in FAs stored

It could be recalled that on April at the PPO Supply Storage Room 14-15, 2016, the PPO had launched a with individual tagging pending the two-day activity dubbed as “License renewal of license,” he noted. to Own and Possess Firearms (LTOPF) Caravan” as reminder to expired Also, during that two-day launch, firearms license holders to renew the the PPO was able to collect a total of same by availing of the LTOPF caravan. 151 assorted unlicensed firearms with the following breakdown at 85, 64,

P/SSupt. Bayting stressed then and two coming from civilians, PNP, that “Owners of firearms with un- and other law enforcement agency renewed licenses cannot avail of the (LEA), respectively. (Greg Tataro Jr., ‘Final General Amnesty’ without first Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag) going through the LTOPF caravan.”

14-20 MAY 2016

21

PROVINCIAL NEWS

22

14-20 MAY 2016

PROVINCIAL NEWS

AgNor province transfers lot ownership to RTR homeowners By: Aimee B. Sienes BUTUAN CITY -- The provincial government of Agusan del Norte is set to transfer the ownership of parcels of land it owns located at Barangay Poblacion 2, Remedios T. Romualdez (RTR) town, to the fully paid vendees of said land under the local housing program.

It can be recalled that in 2002, a Tripartite Memorandum of Agreement executed by and among the province, the National Housing Authority (NHA), the Office of the 2nd District of Agusan del Norte represented by the late Honorable Congressman Edelmiro A. Amante and the provincial government of Agusan del Norte represented by Governor Angel, identified a certain property in Barangay Poblacion 2, RTR, with an area of more or less 18,004 square meters as site for the socialized housing project intended for the RTR Homeowners Association that will benefit 96 bonafide members.

by the NHA, the Office of the 2nd Congressional District of Agusan del Norte and the province of Agusan del Norte that defined the roles and responsibilities of the parties concerned for the acquisition of said property with P3,125,000.00 worth of funding from NHA, the payment of amortization by the beneficiaries to the province including the replenishment of said funding by the province to NHA.

As agreed, the province, as the legitimate owner of the parcels of land under the Local Housing Program, shall convey and transfer ownership of said land to the RTR Homeowners Then an agreement was signed Association individually purchased by

14-20 MAY 2016

23

PROVINCIAL NEWS installment by the members of said housing services to its constituents, association after full payment of said Governor Angel was authorized purchase. recently by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Agusan del Norte

Considering that a number of to sign the Deed of Absolute Sale by the homeowners have already paid and among the province and the fully in full the parcels of land and pursuant paid vendees through Sanggunian to RA 7279 also known as the Urban Resolution No. 090-2016, authored by Development and Housing Act of 1992, Provincial Board Member Danny M. mandating the local government Moran. (LGU-Agusan del Norte) units to take principal role in providing

DTI-Agusan del Norte holds 2-day ‘Diskwento Caravan’ By: Noel B. Najarro

BUTUAN CITY -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Provincial Office, Agusan del Norte opened their “Diskwento Caravan” on Tuesday which will run until Wednesday.

The caravan dubbed as “Balik Eskwela Diskwento Caravan,” is currently held at Guingona Park spearheaded by the Provincial DTI, the Local Government Unit of Butuan and the City Tourism Office.

supplies.

DTI Provincial Director Gay Tidalgo encouraged parents, students and the general public to avail of the products and school supplies offered at affordable and reasonable price

The caravan offers to sell at very in this two-day “Diskwento Caravan.” reasonable and affordable price basic (PNA) home need products and school

24

14-20 MAY 2016

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Negosyo Center Butuan extends labeling assistance to 5 new products developed BUTUAN CITY -- Five newly developed products of Sapyaw Fisherfolks Association (SFA) were recently provided label designs with starters kits by Negosyo Center (NC)-Butuan.

Several skills trainings on food processing for SFA members under the Bottom Up Budgeting Program led to the development of five novel foodstuffs utilizing home-grown ingredients. These are polvoron, cookies and tarts made of “Unaw” or sago flour as well as “kayam” chips and “laksoy” (nipa wine). And to improve and increase marketability, enhancement through product labeling assistance was deemed necessary.

y r e l l a hoto G

P

14-20 MAY 2016

During the lecture and workshop, participants learned the basic features of a product label, its significance and some tips on designing labels.

Jason C. Balacuit, the resource person from JCB Express Solutions, stressed on the importance of a product label in marketing and in conveying the company’s image, values and perceived worth of the product. (DTI-Agusan del Norte)

Caraga Regional Development Council Social Development Committee Meeting NEDA Conference Room, Butuan City 17 May 2016

25

26

14-20 MAY 2016

y r e l l a G o Phot

14-20 MAY 2016

27

Health News

Smoking and excessive alcoholic drinking a deadly tandem By: Jund Rian A. Doringo

It is quite impossible to imagine a party without a generous amount of booze on the table especially on occasions such as birthdays or weddings.

28

Within the Filipino culture, alcoholic beverage consumption among peers and family, locally referred as inuman or toma, is a social norm almost visible in every corner of the streets in the barangay. It signifies the Filipino custom of pakikisama or being one through social events.

And more often than not, a full blown party is completed with a shot of alcohol in the right hand and a stick of cigarette in the other. Not to mention the sounds of the videoke blasting like there’s no tomorrow, but that’s a totally different story.

The combination of smoking and drinking alcoholic beverage maybe enjoyable but this pleasure comes with a price to pay or a life to risk.

14-20 MAY 2016

Excessive alcoholic beverage consumption may lead to being overweight or obese, having nutrient deficiencies, hypertension, erratic blood glucose control and in severe cases, liver cirrhosis, cardiovascular diseases and certain cancers.

are the result of non-smokers being exposed to second-hand smoke.

In the Philippines, the National Nutrition Survey (NNS) by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST) in 2013 found

Remember that alcohol that one in every four Filipinos are becomes fat once digested and current smokers and smokers are as broken down in the body, thus young as 10 years old. taking too much of alcohol will lead to certain types of lifestyle or non- The presence of harmful communicable diseases. substances in tobacco or cigarettes alters the normal functions of the body

According to the World Health in supplying enough oxygen in the Organization (WHO), the harmful use blood to other body organs. of alcohol results in 3.3 million deaths each year. On the average, every person in the world 15 years old or older drinks 6.2 liters of pure alcohol per year.

Smoking or tobacco use, on the other hand, has been associated with different kinds of cancer such as cancer of the mouth, tongue, throat and lungs as well as chronic bronchitis, emphysema, ischemic heart disease, hypertension, and other diseases.

What is more alarming is that even those who do not smoke but are exposed to cigarette smoke can also have the diseases of the smoker due to second-hand smoke.

The WHO revealed that tobacco kills up to half of its users or around 6 million people each year where more than 5 million are the result of direct tobacco use, while more than 600,000 14-20 MAY 2016

29

For that reason, it is best not to ever try smoking or if the habit is formed, quit smoking. Here are some helpful tips on how to quit:

• Decide when to quit and stick to it. It is advisable to have a time frame of when to quit.

• If withdrawal symptoms occur, consult a doctor on how to cope with them. Withdrawal symptoms may include nausea, cold perspiration, trembling and restlessness.

• Drink plenty of water.

• Be physically active

• Avoid going to places that would entice smoking.

Throw all cigarettes and cigarette paraphernalia.

It is never wrong to go out and bond with friends or unwind sometimes.

But then, it also not right to compromise health with these fun activities.

So quit smoking and drink moderately if you can’t avoid it.

For more information on food and nutrition, contact: Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department of Science and Technology, General Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City; Telephone/ Fax Nos: 837-2934 or 837-3164; Direct Line:839-1839; DOST Trunk Line: 837-2071-82 local 2296 or 2284; e-mail: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph or at mar_v_c@yahoo.com; FNRI-DOST website: http://www.fnri.dost.gov.ph.

Like our Facebook page at facebook.com/FNRI.DOST or follow our Twitter account at twitter.com/FNRI_DOST. (FNRI-DOST S&T Media Service)

30

14-20 MAY 2016

Ombudsman-Mindanao warns people circulating bogus documents on 2 graft cases DAVAO CITY -- The Office of the Ombudsman in Mindanao warned the public against the circulation of falsified documents showing that the agency has issued a decision on the cases of two public officials.

Lawyer Ma. Faith Presbetero, Graft Investigation and Prosecution Officer II, said the Ombudsman has yet to decide on the graft cases of Valencia, Bukidnon Mayor Azucena Huervas and Matanao, Davao del Sur Sanggunian Board Member Alfredo Panerio.

are still pending in the Ombudsman.

As this developed, the Ombudsman is now conducting an investigation to uncover the identity of the person who left the bogus documents at their front desk.

Evaluation and Investigation

“The office recently discovered Bureau Director lawyer Marco Buena the existence of a Decision and Order said this was not the first time that purportedly emanating from the office falsified documents came out. of the Ombudsman, which, upon verification, turned out to be spurious “In the history, this has had and non-existent,” she said. happened before. However (that) case was just a draft document, while

According to the bogus this one is complete with signatures document, Panerio was found guilty and seals of our office,” he said. for abuse of authority, conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the Buena said if the arbitrator service and grave misconduct while was involved in the falsification of Huervas was also guilty for conduct documents and if he was part of the prejudicial to the best interest of the public office he could be charged for service and grave misconduct, when falsification and face administrative in fact the cases of the two officials cases. (PNA) 14-20 MAY 2016

31

Children now protected during disasters, calamities photo: www.southcotabato.org

MANILA -- The measure that will provide utmost protection to Filipino children during disasters, calamities and armed conflicts is now a law, according to Sen. Bam Aquino.

In a simple ceremony in Malacanang Tuesday, President Aquino signed Republic Act 10821, or the “Children’s Emergency Relief and Protection Act.

“We welcome the enactment of this measure into law. This is timely especially with the La Nina phenomenon expected to hit the country in the coming months,” said

32

Sen. Bam, chairman of the Committee on Youth and a co-author of the measure in the Senate.

The law provides utmost priority to children during and after every disaster as they are the most vulnerable and are worst affected during disasters such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and flash floods.

14-20 MAY 2016

NATIONAL NEWS

It will also establish child-centered training to disaster first responders, teachers, psychologists and other volunteers in disaster recovery, relief and rehabilitation, with special modules for different stages of children and youth development.

It mandates the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to formulate a Comprehensive Emergency Program for Children and local government units to integrate the said program in their development and Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (LDRRM) plans and budget.

“While we have already made big improvements in the field of disaster risk reduction on a national and local level, now we have the opportunity to target our Filipino children, one of the most vulnerable sectors during times of calamity,” said Sen. Bam.

better support to Filipino children, especially during disasters, calamities or in armed conflict to help lessen trauma, restore normalcy quickly and build their resilience better.

“We will continue to work in protecting our Filipino children during disasters, calamities, or armed conflict, but also to reduce trauma and build their resistance to these threats,” he added.

During the onslaught of Typhoon Yolanda, Aquino said an estimated six million children were affected, according to data from Save the Children.

“A national program is crucial in the most vulnerable areas of the country, where the experience of prolonged displacement would have a profound impact on the children’s sense of security, physical and emotional well-being,” Sen. Bam said.

According to Sen. Bam, existing This is Aquino’s 13th law in less than policies will also be reviewed to give three years as senator. (SENATE) 14-20 MAY 2016

33

NATIONAL NEWS

Public urged to help protect PH waters from climate change impacts MANILA -- Amid the growing threats and likely impacts of climate change to oceans, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has called on the public to do their part in protecting the country’s waters through active participation in coastal and marine conservation.

photo: www.mb.com.ph

The DENR made the appeal as the country marks the 17th year of the Month of the Ocean this May with the theme “Biodiversity for Food and SeaCUREity,” which is a timely reminder how climate change has wreaked havoc on the world’s marine life.

Environment Secretary Ramon J.P. Paje said the DENR, for its part, has increased efforts to scale up “green” infrastructure, conduct scientific assessment and capacitate communities which are at the forefront of biodiversity conservation.

Temperature increase has warmed the ocean floor and caused the death of corals that are vital to marine life and food security.

He said the agency will also embark on a nationwide coral restoration program and improve its reforestation projects, notably the

34

14-20 MAY 2016

NATIONAL NEWS National Greening Program.

“Aside from this, the country has already received considerable foreign assistance in the last five years to scale up protected area management effectiveness,” Paje said.

“This supports the capacity development needs for protected area management, as well as augment the financing of priority theme “Mainstreaming Biodiversity: activities,” he added.

Sustaining People and their

Just recently, the DENR Livelihoods.” established the Sustainable Coral The event aims to inform the Reef Ecosystem Management Program (SCREMP) in Albay province public on the relevance of biological to help combat the alarming effects diversity in sustaining people and of climate change to Philippine livelihoods within biodiversity-rich areas. Women’s groups will showcase waters. their biodiversity-friendly enterprises

The program aims to raise public and livelihood and products and awareness and social environmental services. consciousness on the value of coral The Philippines is one of the reefs and associated coastal and marine ecosystems to mitigate the world’s 17 megabiodiverse countries and is home to 70 to 80 percent of the impact of climate change. entire planet’s biodiversity. The more

SCREMP will promote sustainable than 7,100 islands in the country harbor management of coastal and marine some of the richest ecosystems and resources, including biodiversity, species in the world. through habitat protection,

Scientists have noted that there conservation and rehabilitation. is a higher concentration of species per unit area in the Philippines than International Day for Biological anywhere else in the world.

Diversity

This month, the Philippines joins the world in celebrating the International Day for Biological Diversity on May 22, with the 14-20 MAY 2016

It has over 6,000 plant species, over 530 bird species, at least 165 mammal species, 235 reptile species, nearly 90 amphibian species, and

35

NATIONAL NEWS more than 280 freshwater species of Pending approval of ENIPAS, fish. It also has a high percentage of Paje said the DENR, through the BMB, flora and fauna endemism. has already prioritized site-scale conservation and management, and

Underscoring the importance of delineated all protected areas under national parks and protected areas in the existing NIPAS law. the conservation of the country’s rich biodiversity, the DENR pushed for the As a party to the Paris Agreement, passage of the Enhanced National Paje said the Philippines not only Integrated Protected Areas System committed to reduce its carbon or ENIPAS in Congress during the past emissions by 2030, but also pledged three years. to adopt measures to empower communities, enhance systems to

The ENIPAS will set the reduce disaster risks and improve boundaries of protected areas natural ecosystems resilience. and their classification as national parks consistent with the concept of The Month of the Ocean is ecosystem-based adaptation, one celebrated by virtue of Presidential of the ways the Philippines could Proclamation No. 57 series of 1999 and comply with the Paris climate accord the International Day for Biological and achieve the country’s Intended Diversity was proclaimed by the Nationally Determined Contributions.

United Nations General Assembly on December 2000. (DENR)

36

14-20 MAY 2016

ONE MINDANAO MOBILE APP

EDITORIAL BOARD Executive Editor

ABNER M. CAGA Associate Editor

FRYAN E. ABKILAN Managing Editor

NORA C. LANUZA MOLDE Copy Editor

VENUS LIM GARCIA Layout Artist

GERIE MAE G. COCO Contributors

JENNIFER P. GAITANO Agusan del Sur

NIDA GRACE B. TRANQUILAN Surigao del Sur

SUSIL D. RAGAS

Surigao del Norte/Dinagat Islands

EMMYLOU P. BURIAS APRIL ROSE ANNE Y. SANCHEZ ROMELYN BACTOL GREG TATARO JR. NOEL B. NAJARRO JUND RIAN A. DORINGO JOHNY S. NATAD AIMEE B. SIENES DTI-AGUSAN DEL SUR DTI-AGUSAN DEL NORTE LGU-AGUSAN DEL NORTE PTCO-SURIGAO DEL NORTE Business Manager

ZARINA O. LASTRA Photographer

ROBESPIERRE C. TRADIO

Regional Office Jose Rosales Avenue, Butuan City E-mail: piacaraga@gmail.com;

pia_caraga@yahoo.com.ph Telephone no. (085) 341-5285; Telefax No.: (085) 341-2370 Facebook: PIA Caraga Updates Twitter: @PIACaraga

Information Centers AGUSAN DEL NORTE Jose Rosales Avenue, Butuan City Telephone no. (085) 815-1991 E-mail: pia.northagusan@gmail.com Facebook: PIA Agusan del Norte Twitter: @PIAAgusanNorte

AGUSAN DEL SUR Provincial Government Center, Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur Cellphone no. 0917-723-3455 E-mail: pia.agusandelsur@yahoo.com.ph Facebook: PIA Agusan del Sur Twitter: @AgSurPIA

SURIGAO DEL NORTE/DINAGAT ISLANDS Parrucho corner Magallanes St., Surigao City Telephone no. (086) 826-9450 E-mail: piasurigao@gmail.com Facebook: PIA Surigao del Norte; PIA Dinagat Islands Twitter: @PIASurigaoNorte

SURIGAO DEL SUR Old DPWH Bldg., Telaje, Tandag City Telephone no. (086) 211-3353 E-mail: piasurigaosur@gmail.com; sds_pia@yahoo.com.ph Facebook: PIA Surigao del Sur Twitter: @piasurigaosur