Caraga InFocus –August 10-16, 2019

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[ Contents 10 - 16 August 2019

Volume III, No. 52

DOTr urges contractors to fast-track repair of airport’s runway in Surigao City REGIONAL NEWS

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Butuan youth leaders support ‘Dismiss Disinformation’ Transparent governance emphasized in ‘Dagyaw’ Caraganons unite to stop Dengue cases in Caraga Caraga RTF-ELCAC members convene, formulate action plans for EO 70 implementation

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DSWD UCT program resumes disbursement of 2018 grants BFAR-Caraga promotes fishery products

PROVINCIAL NEWS

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MINDANAO NEWS

AgNor towns join forces vs CPP-NPA-NDF Beneficiaries join 1st DSWD SLP Congress in Cabadbaran City ‘Bae’ competition in AgNor highlights disaster preparedness Surigao Norte Agrarian orgs undergo climate change, DRR seminar-workshops DA-Caraga helps boost cassava industry in Dinagat Army recovers antipersonnel landmine in Sursur town Union group declares Reds persona non grata

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DepEd gives hope to IPs in Davao Norte town

Davao City tops dengue cases, but no epidemic in region

NATIONAL NEWS

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Gov’t to build training center for info officers

DBM approves creation of Gov’t Strategic Communications Academy – Andanar Duterte signs Community Service Act Transport group calls for price monitoring on modern jeeps

News Briefs Members of the PDRRMC Provl. Disaster Response Committee of Agusan del Norte convened for the schedule of Camp Coordination and Camp Management roll-out training to the different LGUs of the province held in Butuan City.

The National Youth Commission (NYC) emphasized during International Youth Day (IYD) celebration in Butuan City, that this year’s theme “Transforming education,” highlights efforts to make education more relevant, equitable and inclusive for all youth, including efforts by youth themselves.

The Philippine Information Agency-Caraga headed by regional director Abner Caga is recognized for its continued support to the BFP and delivery of relevant information to the public during, 28th Founding Anniversary Celebration of the Bureau of Fire ProtectionCaraga held in Surigao City.

Pursuant to Republic Act (RA) 10028, otherwise known as the Expanded Breastfeeding Promotion Act of 2009, August of every year is Breastfeeding Awareness Month. This observance aims to raise public awareness on the importance of and to further promote breastfeeding in the country. #BreastfeedingMonthPH #PCW

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Cover Story DOTr urges contractors to fast-track repair of airport’s runway in Surigao City

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

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UTUAN CITY - Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Arthur Tugade, with the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), urged contractors to fast-track repair of the runway at the Surigao City airport, which was damaged by the 6.7 magnitude earthquake last February 10, 2017.

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It can be recalled that right after the visit of President Rodrigo Duterte and his cabinet members in Surigao City to assess the situation of the quake victims, the operation at the Surigao City airport also resumed, however, only 1,000 meters from the standard 1,700-meter runway are being used until this time, and has only one airline company being accommodated and operating.

Andanar and Lopez agreed that the contractors, the Pacific Concrete Products and VT Lao Construction, should set-up a concrete plant and batching plant near the airport to avoid similar delays in the future.

“While it is true that there is a delay of this project, but like what the secretary has said that the original contract duration is February 2020, that is non-negotiable. We are looking for

The limited flights posed an impact ways really make that happen. We will on the tourism industry of the said city. deliver within the same period of time regardless of the delay,” Lopez said.

In the recent surprise visit at the airport led by Secretary Martin Andanar The 1,400 meters runway is of the Presidential Communications expected to be finished by November Operations Office (PCOO), together in order to accommodate the high with DOTr Asec. Giovanni Lopez, CAAP demand of flights in the Christmas Director-General Jim Sydiongco, season. and Regional Director Abner Caga of the Philippine Information Agency While the entire 1,700 meters will (PIA) Caraga, the officials thoroughly be completed by February 2020, CAAP assessed and checked the condition emphasized that they will be monitoring of the runway. the progress of this project. (JPG/PIACaraga)

“The provincial development council of Surigao del Norte requested yours truly to help followup the repair of the runway.

That’s why I’m here, though this is the job of the DOTr and CAAP, we wanted to fast-track its repair and finish it within the timeline,” said Andanar.

The government has allocated more than P123million fund for the Surigao Airport Development Project.

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REGIONAL NEWS

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Regional News I Empowering Communities

Butuan youth leaders support ‘Dismiss Disinformation’

By Nora L. Molde

BUTUAN CITY - Youth leaders from the different barangays in this city have expressed their support to the government to be an instrument and advocate of truth through its advocacy dubbed as “Youth for Truth” (YFT).

In a caravan held in the city participated by the youth leaders composed of Sangguniang Kabataan chairpersons, representatives, and student leaders, Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) officials have shared how the youth could contribute to stop the spread of fake news and to dismiss disinformation in the area.

She said that recipients should examine the 5Cs or the Content, the Context, the identity of the Communicator, the intent of the Creator and possible Consequence the information it has.

“It is very important to know these 5Cs because these will provide us the guidance to the information we are going to share,” Morato said. Sharing the

Pia Roces Morato, PCOO media correct, truthful and right information is adviser on Dismiss Disinformation all that we need, she added. campaign presented a way to check or discern a sound news against fake Also, PCOO Director and YFT ones.

Program Head Vinci Beltran said that August 10-16, 2019

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Regional News I Empowering Communities focusing on the youth is what they content and video blogs to the YFT need because of the greatest energy via Facebook page at https://www. and the strongest voice they have. facebook.com/YouthforTruthPH/.

“You have the teachable heart For her part, Nicole Namuco, host and you will contribute much to the of the YFT radio program aired over society,” she said.

Radyo Pilipinas every Friday from 8:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. encouraged the youth

“As observed, the spread of leaders to be an active partner, and fake news and disinformation is very share their advocacies and programs rampant in social media these days, in the circle. youth are the primary users of the platform, so they are also expected The YFT program is an alliance of to dismiss disinformation through their responsible use of the channels,” organizations and individuals to help Dismiss Disinformation campaign of the Beltran added. government. It is an open line to get

Beltran invited the youth to be information form the people through part of the YFT Circle, and submit their the youth. (NCLM/PIA Caraga)

Transparent governance emphasized in ‘Dagyaw’

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

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BUTUAN CITY - The significance of transparency in governance to address graft and corruption and achieving real progress in every community was the highlight of the recently concluded “Dagyaw,” an open government and participatory governance, regional town hall meeting held here.

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Regional News I Empowering Communities

During the open forum moderated/ facilitated by Assistant Secretary Kristian Ablan of the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO), various issues and concerns of the different sectors in Caraga region were raised and discussed with the presence of the national and regional officials.

According to Undersecretary Epimaco Densing III of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Dagyaw symbolizes ‘Bayanihan’ among sectors and government agencies towards resolving the problems and challenges that are being faced by people in different communities by coming up with programs that will directly address their needs.

“The Philippine open government partnership is led by the DILG and the Department of Budget and Management primarily to create programs to bring government programs to the people and so that the people could also open up their needs downstairs and tell these to government. It is important that open government is the same with what we call participatory governance in the whole process of government from the barangay up to the national government, where people will always be involved in the crafting of plans, programs and activities of government,” Densing said.

He also cited the good results brought about by implementing a participatory governance.

One of which that he mentioned was the immediate response of the government to every complaint or report being sent to hotline 8888.

“So that means that the budget process that we have is very transparent and it allows people’s participation in terms of formulating the budget in terms of reporting the budget. And remember that even without the law, the President also signed executive order for Freedom of Information and that is already in operation now. In fact through the freedom of information, many have already accessed of the data and records in government,” bared Nograles.

The official added that the Philippines has been number one in Asia when it comes to open budget survey.

This, according to him, is one good result of implementing the freedom of information.

Meanwhile, booths from government agencies such as Philippine Information Agency, PCOO, Department of Health, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, Social Services System, and Home Development and Mutual Fund, among others were installed inside the venue where their

Cabinet secretary Karlo Nograles programs and services are showcased, stressed how the Duterte administration and IEC materials were availed for free. has been transparent in all its endeavors. (JPG/PIA-Caraga) August 10-16, 2019

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Caraganons unite to stop Dengue cases in Caraga

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY – The different sectors in Caraga region have joined hands in fighting against the spread of dengue disease in the region.

This, after a report revealed that the number of dengue cases in the region has increased and now reached to more than 7,000 while eight barangays identified as dengue hotspots.

Dr. Jose Llacuna Jr. urged local government units (LGUs) in the region to

Sectoral groups, particularly intensify the campaign against dengue in the barangays, are now being and help people be well-informed cautious, especially in maintaining the about said disease. cleanliness of their surroundings. The barangay officials have also leveled up Also, Assistant Regional Director their mitigation measures in preventing Dr. Gerna Manatad said, one of the the increase of dengue cases. effective ways to curb dengue is the practice of the four o’clock habit,

Based on the data released by wherein every four o’clock in the the Department of Health – Center afternoon, people do the search and for Health Development (DOH-CHD) destroy of the possible sites where Caraga, these are the Barangay Abilan mosquitoes breed. of Buenavista and Barangay Pinanaan, Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte; Barangay She further stressed that apart Daywan of Claver, Surigao del Norte; from this is the regular conduct of the Barangay Maligaya of Rosario, Agusan 4S campaign against dengue - search del Sur and Barangays Canlanipa, and destroy mosquito-breeding sites; Luna, Washington and San Juan of self-protection measures; seek early Surigao City. consultation; and support fogging/ spraying only in hotspot areas where

DOH Caraga Regional Director an increase in cases is registered for

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Regional News I Empowering Communities two consecutive weeks to prevent an department, together with the LGUs impending outbreak. continue to monitor the dengue cases in their respective areas.

Dr. Manatad also bared that As of reporting, the status of the the health department has already coordinated with the local government region is below the alert threshold level. units, Department of Education, and Meanwhile, the health other concerned government agencies department thanked all the sectors in and private sector for the conduct of different communities for their active simultaneous clean-up activity. participation and support in all the efforts of the government against

Manatad added that the dengue. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Caraga RTF-ELCAC members convene, formulate action plans for EO 70 implementation

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY - Member-agencies comprising the 12 clusters under the Caraga Regional Task Force – Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) convened in this city and formulated their respective action plans in line with the implementation of Executive Order No. 70.

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According to Regional Director Lilibeth Famacion of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Caraga and head secretariat of the Regional Peace and Order Council, there is a need for government agencies to converge and streamline their efforts and initiatives making it planned and organized as they address the problem on insurgency in the region.

empowerment 2) legal cooperation cluster; 3) basic services; 4) peace and law enforcement; 5) local peace engagement; 6) sectoral unification capacity building and empowerment; 7) livelihood and poverty alleviation; 8)strategic communication; 9) infrastructure and resource management; 10) situational awareness and knowledge management; 11) E-CLIP and amnesty;

Erica Gina CariĂąo of the and 12) international engagement.

National Intelligence Coordinating (JPG/PIA-Caraga) Agency (NICA) reiterated the roles and responsibilities of the member agencies and the needed services to be provided to the communities in the conflict-affected areas.

Regional Director Manuel OrduĂąa of NICA Regions 10 and Caraga also highlighted various programs and campaigns of the Duterte administration that uplifted the lives of the Filipino people, particularly those former rebels who were given the chance to start a new life in the mainstream society and live peacefully with their family.

Meanwhile, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Caraga Assistant Regional Director Roy Kantuna expressed his optimism that the formulated action plans of the 12 clusters will help intensify the campaign of the government against insurgency and would directly address the issues and concerns of the affected areas.

The 12 clusters under the RTFELCAC are: 1) local government

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Regional News I Empowering Communities

DSWD UCT program resumes disbursement of 2018 grants

By Marko Davey D. Reyes

BUTUAN CITY - Beneficiaries of the Unconditional Cash Transfer (UCT) program (under the Listahanan and Social Pension Program) of the Department of Social and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga who have yet to receive or have yet to claim their 2018 grants flocked to the Surigao del Sur State University gymnasium, this city, to collect their P2,400 lump sum grants.

The long-awaited disbursement of the funds was made possible after the prohibition period (election ban) on the release, disbursement or expenditure of public funds was lifted paving the way for the resumption of the payout of the grants.

major issues such as the lack of conduit banks (rural/cooperative banks) to serve as pay masters and the hectic schedule of the Land Bank of the Philippines became major setbacks in the implementation.

Amidst the challenges faced by

The program’s release of grants the field office, DSWD Caraga officerstarted in September 2018, but with the in-charge regional director Mita Chuchi August 10-16, 2019

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Regional News I Empowering Communities G. Lim has been very positive that the UCT will receive their P3,600 (P300 per 2018 grants will be delivered by the 3rd month) grants, through their cash cards quarter of this year. by this month.

She has instructed the UCT team to maximize all opportunities and work with Land Bank to fast track the disbursement of the 2018 funds which will be due by the end of September.

On the other hand, UCT beneficiaries for Social Pension Program for Indigent Senior Citizens, and the Listahan-identified poor households will soon follow once funds will be downloaded to the Landbank here in

DSWD Caraga UCT focal person Caraga.

Adelito Mendoza explained that the team has already plotted the schedule The UCT of the DSWD is a program for the remaining areas and that Land Bank has coordinated in the scheduling that provides cash grant/assistance and are optimistic that all beneficiaries from the government to address the will have their grants by the end of the increasing prices of commodities due to the effect of the TRAIN law approved 3rd quarter. in December 2017. (Social Marketing

As for the 2019 grant allocation, Section/DSWD Field Office Caraga/ beneficiaries for the Pantawid Pamilya PIA-Caraga)

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Regional News I Empowering Communities

BFAR-Caraga promotes fishery products

By Salve M. Dinolan

BUTUAN CITY - The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) - Caraga joins the Department of Agriculture in the 6th Regional Technology Forum and Product Exhibition held here.

The two-day technology forum that runs from August 8 to 9, 2019 showcases products and lectures on technologies for tilapia, coconut, cacao, soybean and sorghum production.

the new Secretary of the Department’s priority strategies in the first 100 days at DA,” said BFAR-Caraga regional director Visa Tan-Dimerin.

The forum brought together farmers, agripreneurs, agricultural

“Product exhibition, as part of extension workers, representatives product promotion of value-added from academe, agricultural institutions fishery and aquatic products from and local government units. potential producers among the fishers of Caraga region, is one of This year’s theme is “Technologies the approaches being used by BFAR from Agri-Fisheries as Catalyst for to help the fisherfolk family’s level of Sustainability and Competitiveness.” income. This scheme is aligned with (BFAR-Caraga/VLG/PIA-Caraga) August 10-16, 2019

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

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AgNor towns join forces vs CPP-NPA-NDF

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY - Several towns in the province of Agusan del Norte have been declaring the terrorist groups Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army – National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) as persona non-grata for their ruthless acts and harassments to the people in the communities.

The municipality of Nasipit was first to make the declaration following the terrorist groups’ acts that caused sufferings to the people for being inhumane and for doing senseless activities.

The local government unit of Buenavista headed by mayor Norbert Pagaspas then followed with strong determination to put a stop on insurgency and freely deliver the basic health and social services and livelihood to conflict-affected

areas which include the barangays of Sangay, Olave, Simbalan, and Guinabsan.

Mayor Pagaspas expressed his optimism that the government’s vision of a peaceful and progressive town would be achieved only if these terrorist groups could no longer penetrate and cause chaos to the locals, and having an enhanced road networks that would bring more opportunities for the upliftment of lives would also contribute to making it possible.

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According to Lieutenant Colonel Francisco Molina Jr., commanding officer of 23rd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army, there has been a significant number of NPAs who have surrendered to the government even until this time. He added that per monitoring, no more recruitment activities are being conducted in the area.

Based on records from January to July of this year, there were 27 former rebels and members of the Militia ng Bayan who are now sheltered at the Masigasig Happy Homes under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local

Integration Program (E-CLIP) of the government.

The indigenous peoples led by Datu Manlig-unan Rolando Lanapan, the indigenous peoples mandatory representative supports the Philippine Army, hence, authored the resolution declaring the CPP-NPA-NDF as persona non-grata in the municipality of Buenavista.

Meanwhile, LTC Molina urged other former rebels to surrender to the government and live peacefully in the mainstream society. (JPG/PIACaraga)

Beneficiaries join 1st DSWD SLP Congress in Cabadbaran City

By Marko Davey D. Reyes

CABADBARAN CITY, Agusan del Norte - It was a fun-filled day for the beneficiaries as Cabadbaran City hosted the first ever Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) Congress last July 26, 2019, in this city.

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The atmosphere was full of excitement as SLP beneficiaries, together with their families and the program’s partners and stakeholders participated in various activities which highlighted the program’s implementation, and success, most specifically in Cabadbaran City, which was also celebrating its Charter Day.

to the participants during the symposium, while Gemma Clarin from the Department of Trade and Industry was also able to discuss Business Planning and Promotional Strategies, which came handy to the different SLP Association members who themselves are running different kinds of livelihood programs.

Plaques of recognition were handed over to SLP Associations who have been successful in their business ventures, while supportive partners and stakeholders were acknowledged for their role in the success of the program. Mayor Amante personally handed over the certificates to the proud beneficiaries and partners.

Judy Amante, City Mayor of Cabadbaran, together with the members of the Sangguniang Bayan were present to give full support to the said activity. The Provincial Government of Agusan del Norte was also ably represented by the Hon. Elizabeth Marie Calo, Sangguniang Panlalawigan Member who heads the Committee on Social Services.

The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA)

The celebration, with the theme, was also able to hold a Jobs Fair “Karun ug sa Uma-abot, Kalampusan during the celebration, which was very atong Makab-ot,” (Now and in the helpful to SLP beneficiaries, especially coming days, we can achieve success) those under the Employment Track of was a venue for the SLP beneficiaries the livelihood program. and partners to interact and showcase the impact of the program. Different The SLP is a capability-building activities transpired during the whole- program for poor, vulnerable and day celebration, which included a marginalized households and poster making contest which was communities to improve their socioparticipated by SLP beneficiaries, a economic conditions through livelihood bazaar which exhibited accessing and acquiring necessary products from SLP Associations, and a assets to engage in and maintain livelihood symposium. thriving livelihoods. It has two tracks namely Microenterprise Development

Julius Sol Jamero, Technical and the Employment Facilitation Education and Skills Development tracks. (Social Marketing Section/ Authority (TESDA) Provincial Director, DSWD Field Office Caraga/PIAdiscussed Social Entrepreneurship Caraga) August 10-16, 2019

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‘Bae’ competition in AgNor highlights disaster preparedness

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY – As Agusanons are becoming more disaster resilient and active advocates of climate change adaptation, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) Agusan del Norte has organized an event that showcased the qualities of empowered women in the province.

Eleven ‘Bae’ or ladies from various towns in Agusan del Norte have showcased their talents and different kinds of preparation for any calamity or eventuality, during the conduct of DRRM Bae Competition of the said province.

The DRRM Bae competition is a unique competition among women, wherein people get to witness their beauties, skills in rescue operation, act of empowerment, and understands DRRM advocacies.

Specific advocacy, particularly on disaster risk reduction, was also

Each candidate showed their presented. skills on how to effectively respond in times of emergency and calamity while Meanwhile, in the said competition, wearing their responder’s outfit made Daphne Eronco of Cabadbaran City of recycled materials. was crowned as DRRM Bae 2019; Maxine Lou Plenos of Kitcharao as 1st

Cultural attires of the different runner-up and Miss Young ADNERT 2019; ethnic groups in Agusan were also and Jan Krizzia Beniga of Buenavista as 2nd runner-up. (JPG/PIA-Caraga) featured.

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Surigao Norte Agrarian orgs undergo climate change, DRR seminar-workshops

By Daryll M. Tumbaga

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte Assisted agrarian reform beneficiaries’ organizations (ARBOs) of DAR Surigao del Norte (DAR-SDN) underwent recently a series of seminar-workshops on climate change awareness, and disaster risk reduction and management conducted by DAR-SDN’s Program Beneficiaries Development Division held in Brgy. Cabugao in the municipality of Bacuag, this province.

The seminar gave the participants additional knowledge on awarenessbuilding and adaptation on climate change so organizations in the communities can better cope with the adverse impacts of climate change.

The three ARBOs that participated in the said seminar-workshop are the Cabugao First Farmers Agra Consumers Cooperative (CAFIFACOCO), Cabugo Multi-purpose Cooperative (CAMCO), and Pagao Farmers Association (PAFA).

PAFA President Sabina C. Honor hopes that what they have formulated in their climate change plan as an organization, they can apply it also in their own households and as concerned individuals of their barangay.

Meanwhile, CAFIFACOCO Chairperson Perla B. Raganas was thankful for the seminar because it opened their eyes that they need to plan ahead and be aware especially that their office and processing building is prone to flooding.

“We need to lay our measures to prevent the risk in dealing with natural calamities,” Raganas said.

At the end of each workshop, the ARBOs were able to formulate their one-year operational plan for Climate Change Awareness and Adaptation, and Disaster Risk Reduction and Management, respectively. (DAR-SDN/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

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DA-Caraga helps boost cassava industry in Dinagat

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte - With the inclusion of cassava in the priority commodity of the province of Dinagat Islands (PDI), the Provincial Agriculture Office conducted series of activities to come up with community-based target setting of the crop.

The Office of the Provincial Agriculturist – PDI, through its corn and cassava focal person Rico Galinato, spearheaded the conduct of the cassava utilization training and stakeholder’s forum in the Municipality of Libjo, August 6-7, 2019.

representatives, local government unit program coordinators and Department of Agriculture (DA) - Caraga staff.

Francis Louie Parina, DA-Caraga Cassava focal person, said that the department can support PDI’s plan with the provision of high yielding variety,

The activities were participated farm mechanization, and technical in by cassava processors, farmers training. (DA-Caraga/PIA-Surigao del association leaders, cooperative Norte)

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Army recovers anti-personnel landmine in Sursur town TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – The troops of 36th Infantry (Valor) Battalion (36IB), Philippine Army found on Wednesday an antipersonnel landmine while conducting a security patrol in the vicinity of Nabigtaw, Sitio Gacub, Hinapuyan, Carmen, this province.

1st Lt. Jonald D. Romorosa, 36IB Law (CARHRIHL).

Civil-Military Operations (CMO) officer, said that they acted on a tip given from “This only proves that they really a concerned lumad. are terrorists, wanting nothing but destruction and blockade of the

Romorosa said a team from Charlie government’s efforts in bringing peace Company immediately responded and and development especially to the discovered 70 meters wire and other Lumads who are clear victims of their gadgets used as trigger device wires in malicious propaganda,” said Lt. Col. the said area.

Trinidad.

In a statement, 36IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Xerxes Trinidad said the Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs) use landmines on Army troops who are ensuring the peace, development, and delivery of government services to the people.

He said the CTGs’ intent is a clear violation of the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and the International Humanitarian

He added that the Lumads are continuously being enlightened of the CTGs’ interests through the 36IB’s Community Support Programs (CSP).

The lumad communities’ commitment to the Whole-of-Nation approach brought better coordination with the government thru Baranggay Hinapuyan’s declaration of CTGs as persona non grata, Lt. Col. Trinidad noted. (36IB CMO/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

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Union group declares Reds persona non grata

BISLIG CITY, Surigao del Sur - Two hundred twenty four (224) regular members of the newly-organized Filipinas Palm Oil Plantation Independent Workers Union (FPPIWU) unanimously approved the declaration of the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People’s Army - National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) as persona non grata in the areas covered by Filipinas Palm Oil Plantation Incorporated (FPPI) in the municipalities of Rosario and San Francisco of Agusan del Sur during a dialogue held recently inside the FPPI Compound.

Through its Resolution Number 2, Series of 2019, the FPPIWU officers and members condemned the CPP-NPANDF including its allied organizations such as the Nagkahiusang Mag-uuma sa Agusan del Sur (NAMASUR) and Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU), for their atrocities in their communities and continuous exploitation of the poor farmers and workers of FPPI.

It can be recalled that the former Filipinas Palm Oil Plantation Inc. Workers Union (FPIWU) which was created and registered in 2007 by the National Federations of Labor Unions-

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Kilusang Mayo Uno (NAFLU-KMU) to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), was recently reorganized and became FPPIWU after all its 224 members decided to formally separate from its mother federation through a resolution passed during a general assembly.

The newly-organized union wanted to pursue its autonomy due to some serious issues within the company in order to achieve its organizational objectives while observing the internationally accepted principles and domestic laws.

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Accordingly, under the NAFLUKMU, the FPIWU was able to launch two crippling strikes against the company, one in October 2010 and the other in November 2012, which resulted to the dismissal of several workers and displacement of some families.

“For the sake of my co-workers and our families, we should tread the right way, without any reservation.

With 93 percent of members voted, we formally disaffiliate ourselves from NAFLU-KMU, that is why we created our independent union, the FPPIWU, to formally put an end to the issues of exploitation and propaganda that became the source of spat between us and the FPPI management,” Elmer Jamero, former FPIWU President said, in his message to his co-workers.

member could have another source of livelihood and additional income.

Col. Allan Hambala, commander of 401st Infantry Brigade, expressed his appreciation to all the members of FPPIWU who decided to choose to be independent and take part in

Jay Lagapa, the newly-installed the declaration of persona non grata FPPIWU President, read the resolution against their former federation, the followed by the signing of the officers NAFLU-KMU. and its members. “I also thanked the assistance given to us by the authorities “This is the most commendable and the management that made decision you have ever made as things easier for us to reorganize and members of your union to finally formally disaffiliate from NAFLU-KMU,” decide for your own welfare without he emphasized. being dependent to those dubious organizations that covertly manipulated

The members of the FPPIWU also and exploited you financially,” he said. took their oath to maintain the peace and order within the FPPI areas and to “Now that EO 70 has been never let their union be used again for operationalized in the region, I will assure the interests of few people and dubious you that we in the government, will organizations. always keep an eye on the protection of every worker’s rights against exploitation

Also, Gil Delos Santos, FPPI General and injustices, through the assistance of Manager, promised to provide more the concerned government agencies,” support through programs and trainings Hambala added. (75IB/ 401st Brigade, to the union members, so that every PA/PIA-Agusan del Sur) August 10-16, 2019

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MINDANAO NEWS

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DepEd gives hope to IPs in Davao Norte town

By Che Palicte

DAVAO CITY - The top official of the Department of Education (DepEd) visited the Nasilaban Integrated School in Barangay Palma Gil Talaingod in Davao del Norte on Friday, to give Indigenous People (IP) communities new hope through various projects.

Being the first Cabinet official to set foot in the village, Secretary Leonor Briones bared her plans to the community to provide better education to IP children.

in 2022.

“Every sitio (sub-village) in Talaingod would have its set of kinder, elementary, junior and senior high schools,” she said.

“Talaingod was the IP area I failed to visit last year due to security Meanwhile, Talaingod Mayor concerns. But today, I have proven Jonnie Libayao conveyed to Briones that the town is peaceful,” she added. that it is crucial to establish a college in the area.

During the visit, Briones pledged to put up a three-story building with Briones, however, said priority nine classrooms, a dormitory, a solar would be given to basic education for panel project for electricity supply, children. and a rainwater collector.

“I understand her for it needs a

She called on her lot of process, but I am thankful that undersecretaries, assistant secretaries DepEd initiated a move for senior high and DepEd officials, from the municipal school graduates to land for a job,” to provincial levels, to make sure that Libayao said, in reaction to Briones’ the projects are delivered before the statement that the DepEd and the Civil Duterte administration’s term expires Service Commission had talked about August 10-16, 2019

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Mindanao News I Empowering Communities the possibility of accepting senior high Libayao also said that Briones got graduates for jobs in local and national the chance to talk to the IP residents, government offices. teachers and students and promised to solve the shortage of school buildings

The projects offered by DepEd and the needs of the schoolchildren. have a big impact on the lives of the IPs, he said. “Despite her age, she Briones also went to the adjacent managed to visit us and provided Salugpongan school and saw that government services to this far-flung nothing was left of it since the residents area,� he added. dismantled the school. (PNA)

Davao City tops dengue cases, but no epidemic in region

DAVAO CITY- This city recorded the highest dengue cases in Davao Region with 2,168 persons falling ill from deadly mosquito bites in the last eight months of the year, an official of the Department of the Health (DOH) said Wednesday.

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Abdullah Dumama Jr., DOHAssistant Secretary for Visayas and Mindanao, said 11 persons have already died of dengue in the city from January to August 5 this year.

death, while Davao Occidental has 35 cases and one death.

To better respond to the influx of patients, Dumama said the government-run Southern Philippines

Dumama said Region 11 has a Medical Center (SPMC) based in this total of 4,345 cases with 21 deaths city has already created a fast lane during the same period, compared to for dengue cases. An exclusive ward 2,690 cases and 14 deaths in 2018. for dengue patients, he said, has also been designated.

“Despite the number of cases, Davao Region has not reached Dumama also assured that blood the alert epidemic threshold yet,� supply is enough not only in the region Dumama said during a press briefing but in the entire country. here.

On Tuesday (August 6), DOH

In terms of the number of cases, declared a national dengue DOH records show that Compostela epidemic in the wake of the 146,062 Valley Province ranked second next cases recorded since January up to to Davao City with 788 cases and one July 20 this year, 98% higher than the death, followed by Davao Oriental same period in 2018. with 641 cases and one death.

A total of 622 deaths have been

Davao del Norte registered 562 recorded in the entire country in the cases with six deaths, followed by same period. (PNA) Davao del Sur with 151 cases and one

August 10-16, 2019

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NATIONAL NEWS

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National News I Empowering Communities lack of uniformity in government communication paradigm.

Each department on the national level has different ways to do media relations and public relations. In the local government, it depends if the mayor is competent and media savvy,” Andanar said.

SEC. MARTIN ANDANAR PCOO

NEWS CORNER

“For the government to solve this problem, we need a communications academy in the government to help do things properly.”

Gov’t to build training center for info officers

The facility will house an auditorium, large classrooms, meeting rooms, canteen, newsroom, and TACLOBAN CITY - Communications laboratory. The center will also maintain a community television, radio, news Secretary Martin Andanar said the agency, and social media page.

national government will build its first strategic communications training center to capacitate state information officers on effective public and media relations.

The Department of Finance and Department of Budget recently approved the PHP100 million proposed budget of the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) to build the facility in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon.

Andanar said the local government of Manolo Fortich donated a two-hectare lot for the new center near a pineapple plantation and a state-run university campus.

The Bukidnon town is a strategic place to set up this communications center considering it is the gateway to major cities such as Davao City and Cagayan de Oro City, Andanar said.

Trainees from the new center will

Construction will start next year be toured in the Mindanao Media Hub with a PHP50-million outlay. Another in Davao. The facility is now 80 percent PHP50 million is needed to procure complete, according to Andanar. the needed equipment, Andanar told The hub will house the People’s reporters in a press briefing at XYZ Hotel Television, Radyo Pilipinas, News and here Thursday afternoon.

Information Bureau, Philippine News

“One thing I noticed is the Agency, the Philippine Information August 10-16, 2019

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National News I Empowering Communities Agency, the National Printing public,” he added.

Office, Apo Production Unit, and The PCOO chief said he would talk other attached agencies under the with lawmakers to support the operation PCOO. of the strategic communications

“In a world where technology center. House Speaker Alan Peter has impacted the news deliver and Cayetano committed to donate all in the world with so much information communication equipment to be used and disinformation, the government in the Southeast Asian Games to the should be ready to explain issues to the new center. (PNA)

DBM approves creation of Gov’t Strategic Communications Academy – Andanar The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has approved the creation of the Government Strategic Communications Academy, a division of the Presidential Communication Operations Office (PCOO) which aims to teach communications strategy to information officers.

station, sariling TV station, sariling news agency, sariling Philippine Information Agency, sariling social media desk,” added Andanar.

In an interview aired on DWIZ on Sunday, Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said the institution is planned to be set up in Bukidnon.

“Ito ay inaprubahan na ng DBM, tapos isasalang na lang sa Kongreso at sa Senado,” said Andanar, adding that “friends” in Congress will help get it passed.

Envisioned to have its own building and an accompanying dormitory, Andanar said the proposal will have to first be submitted to the two houses of Congress.

“Ito pong Government Strategic Communications Academy ay isang institution na magtuturo ng communications strategy sa lahat ng mga information officers—mula sa national government hanggang local government, sa mga barangay,” he said.

“Nandiyan naman ang ating mga kaibigan sa Kongreso, si Congressman Malou Acosta, si Congressman [Manuel] Zubiri at saka si Senator Migz Zubiri na tutulungan tayo na ito ay maipasa, dahil ito ay ilalagay sa Bukidnon, sa Bukidnon mismo. And a very cold place in Bukidnon, parang sa

“Ang institusyon na ito ay Baguio, malamig din di ba, so doon,” magkakaroon po siya ng sariling radio he elaborated.

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Duterte signs Community Service Act

By Azer Parrocha

MANILA President Rodrigo R. Duterte has signed a law authorizing the court, in its discretion, to require community service for minor offenses.

Duterte signed the Community Service Act (Republic Act No. 11362), recognizing the policy of the State to promote restorative justice and decongest jails.

Under the law, the court may require community service instead of imprisonment for arresto menor (one day to 30 days imprisonment) and arresto mayor (one month and one day to six months).

The law defines community service as “any actual physical activity which inculcates civic consciousness, and is intended towards the improvement of a public work or promotion of a public service.”

the defendant shall serve the full term of the penalty, as the case may be, in jail, or in the house of the defendant,” the law read.

“However, if the defendant has fully complied with the terms of the community service, the court shall order the release of the defendant unless detained for some other offense,” it added.

The Department of Justice and the Department of Social Welfare and Development shall issue the rules and regulations to implement the provisions of the Act within 90 days from its effectivity.

CDA charter of 2019

“If the defendant violates the terms of the community service, the Meanwhile, Duterte also signed court shall order his or her rearrest and the law reorganizing and strengthening August 10-16, 2019

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National News I Empowering Communities the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) or the “Cooperative Development Authority Charter of 2019” (Republic Act No. 11364).

and foster within their own ranks cooperative promotion, organization, training, information gathering, audit and support services, with government assistance where necessary,” the law

Under the law, “the State read. recognizes cooperatives as associations organized for the economic and social The CDA shall have its head office betterment of their members, operating in the National Capital Region and business enterprises based on mutual shall maintain the existing 16 extension aid, and founded upon internationally offices. accepted cooperatives principles and practices.”

It shall be an attached agency of the Department of Trade and Industry

“The State also recognizes the for policy and program coordination right of the cooperatives to initiate for cooperatives. (PNA)

Transport group calls for price monitoring on modern jeeps

By Raymond Carl Dela Cruz

MANILA - A leader of a national transport group on Saturday expressed dismay over the drastic increase in prices of modern jeepneys and called for its price monitoring from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

Orlando Marquez, president of the Liga ng Transportation at Operators sa Pilipinas (LTOP), in an interview, said the price of a modern jeepney in 2017 was around PHP1.4 to PHP1.6 million but it has now skyrocketed to about PHP2.5 million.

a) public hearing,” Marquez said during a showcase of modern Public Utility Vehicles (PUV) at the Quezon Memorial Circle in Quezon City.

DTI Secretary Ramon Lopez, in an interview, said the agency is monitoring

“Nung itinaas na nila, wala the prices of modern jeepneys. ng (When they raised the prices of modern jeepneys, there was no) public “There are different features so consultation. Ang liwanag ng batas. Na different prices. And there are many kapag public consumption ang ating suppliers so there’s competition. We are pinag-uusapan, dapat may (The law also developing local suppliers,” he said is clear that when it comes to products in a Viber message to the Philippine News of public consumption, there should be Agency (PNA).

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Marquez said the DTI must take control of prices of modern jeepneys.

“Nagtataka kami sa DTI dahil sila ang may hawak ng price-ceiling control ng Pilipinas. Bakit hindi kumikibo ang DTI? (We’re wondering because the DTI controls the price-ceiling in the Philippines. Why is the DTI not doing anything?),” Marquez said.

He said the PHP80,000 subsidy promised by the government to help operators in purchasing modern jeepneys was based on a price tag of PHP1.4 to 1.6 million.

“Nagkaroon ng public consultation noong ideklara ni Secretary Tugade kung magkano ang presyo ng mga makabagong sasakyan. Ang mga car manufacturers ang nagdeklara ng PHP1.4 to 1.6 million. So na-come out ‘yung PHP80,000 na subsidy (There was a public consultation when Department of Transportation [DOTR] Secretary Arthur Tugade declared the price of a modern jeepney. And the car manufacturers declared a PHP1.4 to 1.6 million price tag. The PHP80,000 subsidy was worked out from that),” Marquez said.

sukat ng upuan, ‘yung sukat ng aisle, ‘yung dapat na sukat ng sasakyan. Ang Class 2 and Class 3 naglalaro po ‘yan hanggang 7 meters lang. So nahuli po yun, hindi agad na-anticipate kung magkano ‘yung chassis, kung ilan ba ang lalabas na seating capacity (So, what is this PNS? This is where the dimensions of seats, aisle, dimensions of the vehicle itself were released. Class 2 and Class 3 PUVs are somewhere around 7 meters long. So this was released late and the prices of the chassis and others were not anticipated),” Tolentino said. He added that prices for steel, accessories and others have risen since 2017.

If the DTI was to control the prices of modern jeepneys, Tolentino said it was imperative to monitor the cost of materials used by manufacturers and the prices of accessories required by the Land Transportation and Franchising Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

“Monitoring of cost of materials.

Tama pa ba ‘yung nilalabas ng builder?

(Is the price the builder is releasing still right?) Cost of accessories? Kasi ang supplier ng accessories, ang naglabas din naman niyan, LTFRB (Because the list of suppliers of accessories has been released by the LTFRB),” Tolentino said.

To help spur the PUV modernization of the Duterte administration, the DOTr offered an PHP80,000-subsidy for drivers and operators who would buy a modern jeepney to replace their old one.

Rowel Tolentino, group retail manager of Foton GMA Cavite, which Marquez called as one of the dealers with the most reasonable prices, said the drastic price increase was an accumulation of several factors, one of which is the late release of the Philippine

In October 2018, DOTr Assistant National Standard (PNS) for PUV Class 2 Secretary for Road Transport and and 3.

Infrastructure Mark Richmund De Leon said the department is eyeing to increase

“So ano po ba ‘yung PNS na this subsidy as prices of modern jeepneys tinatawag? Diyan po nilabas ‘yung have increased. (PNA) August 10-16, 2019

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ONE MINDANAO MOBILE APP

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