Caraga Infocus 30 June - 06 July, 2018

June 30 - July 06, 2018

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Volume II, No. 65

Contents An Electronic News Magazine of Philippine Information Agency Caraga

Volume II, No. 65

June 30 - July 06, 2018

Feature: Developing leaders, building resilient communities through Kalahi-CIDSS P.4

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DOE News: DOE warns anew against use of refilled butane gas cylinders

SSS News: SSS runs after delinquent employers in El Nido

9 ASEAN News: ASEAN sectoral bodies craft gender mainstreaming action plan

Regional News DA Caraga reaches out to farmers 11 thru info advocacy campaign 12

NFA starts selling low-priced rice in Caraga region

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OWWA extends cash relief to OFW returnees from Kuwait

Provincial News

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DTI-AgSur introduces skills on wood carving, chips processing to IPs, MSMEs

Mindanao News 3 Abu Sayyaf members sur30 render in Basilan

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Agusan del Sur MSMEs visit Propak in Bangkok, Thailand

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Surigao biz group presents CR+ID project outputs

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79 former rebels take oath of allegiance in Bislig City

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Tandaganons celebrate 11th Charter Day Guv prioritizes education for Agusanons IFAD supports AgNor farmer-groups under DAR’s Project ConVERGE NC Jabonga, DTI-CARP Agusan Norte conduct training on cultural practices

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ARMM solon survives ambush, helper killed in Davao City

National News

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No speculations until probe on Halili’s slay completed: PNP

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AFP supports DND to end peace talks

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New Briefs Caroline Catalan, social welfare officer of DSWD Caraga said that the Regional Disaster Response Committee (RDRC) should strengthen its mechanism to have it more organized & harmonized when responding & giving needed services to the victims of disaster.

The Dept of Tourism (DOT) Caraga in coordination with LGU Cagdianao, Dinagat Islands conducted a Capacity Enhancement Training on Homestay Program on July 2, 2018 held at the Tagbirajan Beach Resort, San Jose, Cagdianao, Dinagat Islands. Around 46 residents participated in the said training. (Audie Dodz Alipayo, MIO-Cagdianao)

The different Disaster Risk Reduction and Management related contests lined up in observance of this year‛s National Disaster Resilience Month in Agusan del Norte will be participated by the different elementary and secondary schools in the province.

Newly-elected Agusan del Sur Sangguniang Kabataan Provincial Federation President Doreen Pamille Miro was officially recognized as Ex Officio Member of Sangguniang Panlalawigan of the Province during the regular session of the 15th Sangguniang Panlalawigan held at the SB Session Hall, San Luis, Agusan del Sur. Miro is the municipal SK federation president of San Francisco, Agusan del Sur. (Source: Alexis Cabardo, PTV8/PPIO Agusan del Sur)

Surigao del Norte 2nd district Cong. Robert Ace Barbers officiated the mass oath-taking of the newly-elected Barangay and SK officials from different barangays of the city and municipalities of the province held at the Congressional Hall, Brgy. Hall, Surigao City.

Another NPA member voluntarily surrendered to the 36th IB troopers on July 04, 2018. CMO Officer Capt Francisco Garello Jr. identified the former rebel as Leahmer Maca alias Krista, 24 yrs old, resident of Brgy Carromata, San Miguel, Surigao del Sur. Maca accordingly is a member of Team Abe, Squad Dos, Sandatahang Pampropaganda sa Platun (SPP) 3 Guerilla Front Committee (GFC) 30 of the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC).

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Cover Story

Feature: Developing lead communities through Ka For communities to prosper, it is important for them to manage their resources and maximize on whatever they have, for their own benefit. And that, the people of Katipunan were able to accomplish.

But with their growing population, issues and problems arose. They could not just rely on their existing resources, but they also need to access basic services. Here lies the dilemma for their community.

Flora Forcadilla, Barangay Chairperson of Katipunan, who has been living in the area for decades now shares their community’s story. “Sa una, pipila lang kami lumulupyo dinhi sa Katipunan. Mga mangingisda ang mga unang namuyo dinhi. Tungod sa bakhawan, daghan isda dinhi. Apan niabot ang Barangay Katipunan is one of panahon nga midaghan na ang mga tawo. Tungod niini, nigawas the barangays of Pilar, Surigao del ang mga panginahanglanon namo Norte. A fishing community, they (Before, we were only few residents get to enjoy the rich, abundant here in Katipunan – mostly fisher folks. waters surrounding the barangay. But when the time came when the population ballooned, people began They have fishing as their main to realize there are different needs we source of livelihood. But with the had to address),” Kapitana Flora said. blessings of their rich seas and

mangrove forests surrounding their barangay, also comes challenges to their community.

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Indeed, the significant location of the barangay was quite advantageous for livelihood, specifically fishing. But 4

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ders, building resilient alahi-CIDSS By: Christine T. Tikim and Marko Davey D. Reyes

with the terrain they had, it was difficult sa mga tambal ug regular nga checkto travel to and from the barangay. up. Wala kami source nang tubig. Ang mga balay nga anaa sa kilid sa dagat From the Poblacion, one could maigo sa mga kusog nga balod. Mga take a Bangka going to Katipunan. But motor maglisod ug byahe kay adunay traversing the seas is more challenging. mga suba, ug tubig, unya ang tulay, The seas are usually rough especially sinumpay ra nga kahoy – gabok pa during the rainy season. Several gyud (The population of our children bangkas have been capsized within is growing, yet we do not have proper the waters of Katipunan. But you could schools. There are quite a number of also take another route. But it is farther, persons needing medical attention. and you have to spend more riding a We do not have a viable source of habal-habal. water. The houses near the shores are being pounded by the powerful waves.

Because of this, the people of Motorcycles have a hard time traversing Katipunan have this dilemma – they the barangay because a large parts of either have to stay in Katipunan the barangay covered by water, and and be near their fishing grounds, or they are passing through makeshift, move to another place, where they dilapidated wooden bridges),” Kapitan would have to find ways to adapt in Flora laments when asked about the another environment, in an unfamiliar condition of their barangay, especially community. in the past.

Kapitana Flora has been Barangay Chairperson for 10 years now – she has been the community’s leader since 2007. The barangay local government unit (BLGU) has been doing their best for the community, but still, they fall short of providing all the necessary needs of the community with the meager allocated budget they have for the barangay.

But this changed when the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS) Program. The program, which utilizes the CommunityDriven Development strategy in its implementation, provided opportunities to the community to deal with the “Daghan na kami mga bata, different problems which challenged apan walay eskwelahan nga tarong. them.

Daghan kami mga nagkinahanglan June 30 - July 06, 2018

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Cover Story

When the program started, heard),” Kapitana Flora added. everyone was hopeful that the KalahiThrough the program, the CIDSS would somewhat, be the solution to their problems. Kapitana Flora was barangay was able to implement, and complete a 108 linear meters Sea among those who was most hopeful. wall which protected the houses from “Sa Kalahi-CIDSS, nahatagan mi strong waves. In their second year with ug paglaum kay adunay dakong pondo the program, they were able to have mosulod nga maoy magamit namo sa their first ever Health Care Station. pagtukod sa mga imprastraktura nga To address their problems with makatabang sa among mga katawhan.

Excited kaming tanan kay nindot ang their water provision, the community pamaagi sa programa, tanan adunay proposed, and received rainwater tingog, ug pwede mokapartisipar sa harvesters distributed among the implimentasyon (With Kalahi-CIDSS, households. Another community project we now have funds that we could use they proposed and implemented was to build different infrastructures that their Day Care Center – it was a dream would definitely help us – this gave us come true to them, especially parents hope. We were all excited because who have prayed for it for a long time. the program’s implementation strategy was unique, everyone has the chance To address their problems of to participate and let their voices be accessibility, since their barangay Volume II, No. 65

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Feature: Developing leaders, building resilient communities through Kalahi-CIDSS

is basically surrounded by bodies of water that hindered them from easily travelling from one part of the barangay to another, two Foot Bridge, 6 and 7 linear meters length, joined Purok-1, Purok-2 and Purok-3.

motrabaho ug mag alsa sa mga bato aron mapasunod nako ang katawhan nga motabang usab sila (Kalahi-CIDSS was able to provide us with enough budget. The barangay could not raise enough budget for counterpart because we were short of cash. We could only afford to contribute in-kind, that is why we had to do “pahina” or “bayanihan” instead. I woke up early to be at the site and file large rocks to lead the community in helping out in the project),” she said

Lastly, the community was able to propose and implement 35 solar street lights going to Sitio Emanuel, ensuring the safety of the residents in the area.

Though the community projects were successfully implemented, it was a big challenge to the BLGU. Kapitana Flora faced a lot of challenges during the course of the implementation of the program. Though the community leads in the implementation (with the BLGU supporting), Kapitana Flora could not just sit back and let the opportunity pass by without extending her services to the community.

Through her leadership, and her will to transform their community, and by simply showing her love and care for the people of Katipunan, Kapitana Flora was able to inspire and lead her community and make their dreams and aspirations a reality.

Through their hard work and dedication, the community was able to capitalize and ensure that the goals of the program were achieved. With the support of the BLGU, they were able to turn the challenges they faced into a strong determination to better their community – and this is through the harmonious implementation of the program.

With the challenge of meeting deadlines, and ensuring everything were in place, she was present in the project sites. She was even active in filing rocks in their seawall project because the BLGU could only provide in-kind counterpart.

“Dako ang pondo nga gikan sa Kalahi-CIDSS. Ang barangay halos walay mahatag nga counterpart nga cash kay wala gayud kami pondo.

Mao nga in-kind nalang among contribution, mao kana nga nag pahina o bayanihan kami. Ako ang magsayo gayud diha sa site aron June 30 - July 06, 2018

Today, Kapitana Flora, who is in her last term as Barangay Chairperson could easily look back at her legacy and claim that she was able to deliver for the people of Katipunan, through the help of the Kalahi-CIDSS program.

(DSWD-Caraga/PIA-Caraga) 7

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ASEAN

ASEAN sectoral bodies craft gender mainstreaming action plan By: Joyce Ann L. Rocamora

The ASEAN executives identified and discussed some of the gaps and challenges including lack of specific gender-related projects and a mechanism to monitor gender policies, as well as lack of specific policy on gender mainstreaming itself in some of the ASCC sectoral bodies.

address the challenges, including the inclusion of gender equality-focused ASEAN Committee on Women (ACW) in several sectoral meetings such as in the Senior Officials Meeting for Culture and Arts (SOMCA) and the Senior Officials Meeting Responsible for Information (SOMRI).

Aside from ASCC, the ASEAN has two other pillars: ASEAN Political-Security Community (APSC), and the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC).Each pillar consists of sectoral bodies, with the ASCC having 19 entities.

The next SOMCA is slated in October 2018 while the SOMRI is in May 2019.

While the laid out strategies seemed as if the bloc has yet actualized gender mainstreaming, an expert on gender works lauded the conference’s During meetings, the 12 sectoral bodies outcome as “historic.” agreed to design strategic actions to June 30 - July 06, 2018

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ASEAN “It means a lot...ACWC and ACW, these groups are among the sectoral bodies that have wider understanding on the subject of gender and women,” Dr. Lourdesita Sobrevega-Chan, Philippine Women’s Rights Representative to the ASEAN Commission on the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Women and Children (ACWC), told the Philippine News Agency (PNA).

development since the persons who initiated actions were senior officials of the socio-cultural sector of the bloc.

Based from the meeting’s result, she admitted that in the scale of the transactions done, “the gender is still in the periphery.”

“Gender work is really a journey,” she said. “But the fact that they are here saying officially that we need to do this and that, we now have a basis “When I talked to the chairperson, to continue the work rather than none I said ‘this is an eye-opener to us’,” she at all.” said.

“For them to say that there are “While we have been mouthing things to be done, that’s a huge thing, ASEAN is full of very progressive gender this is unprecedented, this is historical in policies, then we realize that within the gender advocacy,” she said. “Almost pillars of the ASEAN, there is so much all sectoral bodies of the ASCC are here work to be done, to make people and culture is our main issue here.” understand, to make the programs, Chan shared that when dealing with the processes, and the projects more such huge group that one can say gender sensitive not even a gender an embodiment of masculinity, the conference’s results are indeed a responsive but gender sensitive.” “milestone.”(PNA) Chan said they welcomed this

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Regional News

DA Caraga reaches out to farmers thru info advocacy campaign By: Vanessa P. Sanchez

BUTUAN CITY -- In its bid to bring the programs and services of the Department of Agriculture (DA) closer to the farmers, DA – Caraga recently conducted an Information Awareness Campaign in Surigao City; Santiago in Agusan del Norte; and San Luis, Loreto, and La Paz in Agusan del Sur. Representatives of the various Divisions of DA-Caraga imparted signiďŹ cant information about the programs and services the department provides, as well as information on the requirements and guidelines in availing the interventions and services.

that if they receive any assistance from the government, they should also be responsible in managing it and to use it for the purpose it was given.

DA Information Section Chief Emmylou T. Presilda said that the group brings information that can empower the farmers to make them more productive and progressive.

Manfred D. Perez, a farmer from San Patricio, La Paz, Agusan del Sur said he appreciated the activity because they learned much about the various programs and services they may avail from the DA. He also said that they were able to clarify things during the Open Forum.

On the other hand, Municipal Administrator Tirso Gomez of La Paz, Agusan del Sur commended the department for conducting such an activity which he said will help farmers so that they will be aware of what the government is doing for them.

Every year, DA-Caraga conducts an information awareness campaign to bring the department closer to the farmers and other agriculture stakeholders by disseminating information on DA programs and services. (DA-RAFIS)

He also reminded the farmers June 30 - July 06, 2018

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Regional

NFA starts selling low-priced rice in Caraga region Provincial Manager Alan Sabaybay led the operation with representatives from the surveyor, cargo handler and the shipping agent.

Meanwhile, after 13 days at berth, unloading operations in Zambales have started with the skies getting clear today.

BUTUAN CITY -- The National Food Authority (NFA) has started distributing on Monday, its P27 and P32 per kilogram rice through 188 accredited retailers in Agusan and Surigao including the islands of Dinagat and Siargao.

The initial shipment of the 250,000 metric tons government-togovernment rice arrived on June 2 at the Surigao and Subic ports, but the rice was not immediately unloaded due to bad weather.

According to NFA Zambales Provincial Manager Jonathan Yazon, heavy rains have prevented the NFA ofďŹ ce to unload the imported rice from MV Tyson 2 docked at the Subic Freeport. The weather has caused tremendous delays.

In other disport areas across the country, the vessels carrying imported rice have started to arrive. Without weather issues, unloading operations will proceed accordingly.

Two haulers discharged from MV Truong Loc docked at the Macabalan Port in Cagayan de Oro City arrived at the NFA ofďŹ ce in Baloy loaded with 92,000 bags of imported rice from Vietnam.

Unloading of the 5,000 MT allotted for Surigao was completed only last Saturday, June 16 and after the necessary documentation and prescribed procedures, the stocks The NFA awarded last May 4 to started to be distributed today, June Vietnam and Thailand the contract 18. to supply 250,000 metric tons of rice In Tobaco, Albay, the NFA has consisting of 200,000 MT of 25 percent unloaded parts of the 126,000 bags and 50,000 MT of 15 percent broken rice. (NFA) from MV An Thinh Phu. Volume II, No. 65

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Regional

OWWA extends cash relief to OFW returnees from Kuwait BUTUAN CITY -- The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration - Caraga (OWWA-Caraga) has already disbursed P85,000 under the Cash Relief (CARE) Program for those who availed the Kuwait amnesty.

Interior Ministry had announced a general amnesty for foreign violators of the country’s residency laws that ran from January 29 until February 22 and is expected to benefit nearly 130,000 illegal residents. Under the program, all overstaying migrant workers were As of April 30, 2018, the amount allowed exit without suffering fines or was distributed to 18 overseas Filipino penalties. workers (OFWs) returnees from different provinces of Caraga. The applications On February 20, the Kuwait for cash relief were filed within 90 days government announced that it extended after their arrival in the Philippines. its amnesty for overstaying Filipino workers, a few days after the Philippines made OWWA members, active or non- the request to allow it to accommodate active, with at least one recorded more workers who want to go home. The contribution were entitled to apply for deadline was extended for another two the cash relief of P5,000. months, which ended April 22, 2018.

In addition, OWWA also provides The Cash Relief (CARE) Program is a livelihood assistance to the repatriated one-time assistance to OWWA members workers through the Balik Pinas Balik who availed of the Amnesty Program Hanapbuhay Program. offered by the government of. This is to aid the member OFW amnesty availees The program is a package of to defray their incidental expenses upon livelihood assistance intended to their return to their families. provide immediate relief to returning member OFWs through cash assistance For additional details and amounting to a maximum of P20,000 documentary requirements, qualified as start-up or additional capital for the members are advised to apply to any livelihood project, entrepreneurship OWWA Regional Office nearest their development training, and other services residence. They may also call the that will enable the target beneficiaries Regional Welfare Office Caraga for to start/manage a livelihood undertaking more information about the program, through self-employment, such as through telephone numbers 815provision of marketing linkages and job 1894/342-6179 and hotline numbers referral.

09173150590/09399259895.

(OWWACaraga) It can be recalled that Kuwaiti’s June 30 - July 06, 2018

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Photo Gallery

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National Disaster Resil 01 July, 2018

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lience Month kick-off Ceremony

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Provincial News

Agusan del Sur

DTI-AgSur introduces skills on wood carving, chips processing to IPs, MSMEs

AGUSAN DEL SUR - Some 82 indigenous peoples, students and Micro-Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in this province appreciated and learned the process of woodcarving and chips processing.

As part of the Trabaho Negosyo Kabuhayan (TNK): Kalayaan Job Fair 2018 held in Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur, also in time with the Naliyagan Festival, a technology demonstration Volume II, No. 65

on taro (karlang) and camote chips processing and Wood carving /wood doll making were organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Agusan del Sur. Venchito Indias of Torah Tour and Travels and Glorigen Bomotano of GB’s food products of Prosperidad facilitated the said demonstration. (DTIAgusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

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Agusan del Sur

Provincial News

Agusan del Sur MSMEs visit Propak in Bangkok, Thailand PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur – A delegation of 19 persons representing 11 micro and small enterprises (MSMEs) in the processed food sector in Agusan del Sur joined the Philippine delegation to the Propak Asia 2018 – The 26th International Processing and Packaging Technology Event for Asia in BITEC, Bangkok, Thailand These participating entrepreneurs shouldered their own plane fare and incidental expenses. The Agusan del Sur group was also joined by a representative of the Provincial Board of Investment and DTI staff.

June 30 - July 06, 2018

The delegation explored the recent trends in Asia concerning food packaging and technology that can be adapted in their business operations in order to be competitive in the global market.

There was also company visits arranged by the Philippine Trade Attaché assigned in Thailand.

Propak Asia is the Asia’s No. 1 international processing and packaging event for food, drink, pharmaceutical industries with over 2,000 exhibitors from 45 countries. (DTI-Agusan del Sur/PIAAgusan del Sur)

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Provincial News

Surigao del Norte

Surigao biz group presents CR+ID By: Susil D. Ragas project outputs SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte -- The Surigao Chamber of Commerce and Industry Incorporated (SCCI) presented its Coordinating Road and Infrastructure Investments for Development (CR+ID) project outputs to the local government units during the Roll IT Validation and Assessment of Projects held recently at Hotel Tavern.

that lead to industries such as ports, airports, and terminals.

SCCI President Concepcion R. Paqueo, in her message during the event, said that the chamber will continue to support with the partner stakeholders on identifying strategic projects that will lead to economic development.

The said activity was initiated by the Department of Trade and Industry “In behalf of the chamber and (DTI) and the Department of Public the business sector in the province, Works and Highways (DPWH).

I will continue to converge towards sustainable and inclusive growth,�

The Roll IT Program is a partnership Paqueo said. (Susil D. Ragas/SCCI/PIAprogram between the DTI and DPWH Surigao del Norte) that focused on funding road projects

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Provincial News

Surigao del Sur

79 former rebels take oath of allegiance in Bislig City BISLIG CITY - The 75th Infantry (MARAUDER) Battalion, 4th Infantry Division (75IB, 4ID), Philippine Army affirmed the success on the surrender of six Communist Party of the Philippines - New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) terrorists and 73 members of Militia Ng Bayan, during the oath of allegiance held recently here.

The surrenderers yielded with 14 high powered firearms, 20 low powered firearms, various bomb materials, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and other paraphernalia were formally presented and subsequently followed by the Ceremonial Surrender of Firearms to 4ID Commanding General MGen. Ronald Villanueva.

media practitioners and spectators also witnessed the ceremony officiated

by Bunawan, Agusan del Sur Mayor Edwin Elorde, and the awarding of Certificate of Scholarship Commitment of TESDA presented by TESDA-Surigao del Sur provincial director Rey Cueva.

They also received gift packs support from the Enhanced Comprehensive and Local Integration Program (CLIP) MGen. Villanueva commended of the government. the continuing success of the Marauder operations in the area of responsibility.

“This is the result of the collaborative He also welcomed the former rebels efforts of all units in the area and local and made them feel that there is a government unit officials, since the start place for them to belong with and lean of our anti-insurgency campaign, as on to. “This is a great impact against more communist terrorists are coming the communist terrorists in this part of to the folds of law,” BGen. Andres Mindanao,” he added.

Centino, commander of 401st Brigade, Phil. Army said. (75IB/401st Brigade, Phil.

Local government unit officials, Army/ PIA-Agusan del Sur)

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Surigao del Sur

Provincial News

Tandaganons celebrate 11th Charter Day TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur (PIA) –- The city of Tandag, the capital of Surigao del Sur, celebrated its 11th Charter Day where Tandaganons joined in the merriment and enjoyed some of the annual perks lined up including the highlighted drum and lyre “Sinugbahay sa Da’n” (Street Grill) feast corps competition dubbed as “Laguboh” was joined in by the 21 barangays of the held at the City Gymnasium early morning. said city along the Vicente L. Pimentel Sr. Boulevard. Also, high-spirited locals City Mayor Alexander Pimentel, in competed in the “Baile” or “Cha-cha” his message, said the city had its struggles dance contest. before it became a city in June 2007 and Meanwhile, Davao City 1st district even after its proclamation. representative Karlo Alexei Nograles was “In those instances, the local the guest speaker during the Charter government had encountered problems Day Program held the following day. A from the opposition. It’s a hard-fought thanksgiving mass was held in honor of legal battle with the League of Cities of the San Nicolas, the city’s patron saint and Philippines that was managed to come a foot parade known by the natives as “Karahikas”. out a victory,” he said.

Also, in time for the Charter Day celebration was the blessing and inauguration of the “Bahay Pag-asa” in Purok Villa, Barangay Rosario with Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) regional director Mita Chuchi Lim who attended the ceremonial unveiling and the cutting of ribbon.

Also part of the festivity was the “Hudyaka” featuring comedian Jason Gainza, singer-actress Emmanuelle Vera, Ronnie Liang and Rocksteddy Band.

The spectacular fireworks display that illuminated the night skies yielded fun and excitement among children and onlookers.

A medical/dental check-up and a Tandag City, as one of the oldest free haircut called “Kumusta Lo ug La” settlements in Caraga, is basically a activity were also availed by the senior coastal city, with 10 of its 21 barangays are coastal facing towards the Pacific citizens.

Ocean. (VLG/PIA-Surigao del Sur) In the afternoon, a “Sinugda’n” or Volume II, No. 65

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Provincial News

Agusan del Norte

Guv prioritizes education for Agusanons BUTUAN CITY -- Education remains as one of the top priorities of Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba as the provincial government allotted close to PhP479.9 million for the improvement of public schools’ facilities in Agusan del Norte.

In her recent State of the Province Address (SOPA), Gov. Matba said 338 classrooms for the secondary schools with a budget of PhP468 million were constructed in 34 school sites and 37 classrooms were also repaired and rehabilitated at a cost of PhP11.9 million for Senior High School.

grantees have increased from 4,598 in SY 2016-2017 to 5,338 in SY 2017-2018. Similarly, Matba said the Alternative Learning System, which provides opportunities for drop-outs in the elementary and secondary levels, out-of-school youths, and adults who are unable to complete the requirements of basic education, has continued to grow in number as well.

“In 2017, over 80 percent of the total 2,650 enrollees completed the course,” Gov. Matba said since the she said. implementation of the K to 12 program, a total of 157 teaching items for the 1st and Gov. Matba also said the province 2nd batches and 109 for the 3rd batch was able to employ 657 students under were allocated in the province, having a the Special Program for Employment of total of 2,858 teachers in 166 elementary Students (SPES) and provided scholarships schools and 45 secondary schools. to 250 students under the Provincial Special Education Program (PSESP) and 19 Some 6,000 sets of backpacks Indigenous People (IP) students under the containing various school supplies, Indigenous Peoples Scholarship Program. according to Gov. Matba, were also distributed to children, while 10,932 day “We also worked harder to preserve care children were provided with services the culture of our IPs and Muslim brothers such as nutrition and medicines. and sisters,” Gov. Matba said. For this, we continue the programs of the IP Education The governor said the Expanded (IPEd), and Madrasah Education, she Government Assistance to Students and added. (NCLM/PIA-Agusan del Norte) Teachers in Private Education or GASTPE June 30 - July 06, 2018

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Agusan del Norte

Provincial News

IFAD supports AgNor farmer-groups under DAR’s Project ConVERGE

By: Gil E. Miranda

industry and related commodities in the province involving SIUFMULCO and 20 other Agrarian Reform Beneficiary Organizations in the municipalities of Tubay, Jabonga, Kitcharao and Santiago.

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) -- The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), an international development financing institution based in Rome, Italy, visited the San Isidro Upland Farmers Multi-Purpose Cooperative (SIUFMULCO) of Agusan del Norte.

The delegates led by Charlotte Salford, IFAD Associate Vice President for External Relations and Governance Department and Wei Wang, IFAD Director for APL and Special Adviser to the IFAD President were very pleased to hear the success story how SIUFMULCO has grown over the years.

Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Agusan del Norte Provincial Director Andre Atega said that Project ConVERGE or Convergence on Value Chain Enhancement for Rural Growth and Development is investing around P180 million to develop the abaca Volume II, No. 65

SIUFMULCO takes pride of its current assets amounting to P30 million.

It was formerly assisted by the Northern Mindanao Community Initiatives and Resource Management Project (NMCIREMP) implemented by DAR and financed by IFAD and by the Rural Micro Enterprise Promotion Program (RuMEPP) implemented by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), which is also financed by IFAD. There are two on-going IFAD financed projects in Agusan del Norte - the Project ConVERGE implemented

by DAR in the ARC cluster of Tubay, Jabonga, Kitcharao and Santiago; and FishCORAL (Fisheries, Coastal Resources and Livelihood) implemented by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in coastal communities around Butuan Bay. ConVERGE, a US$ 52 million project implemented in 10 provinces in Mindanao, aims to increase the profitability of agrarian reform beneficiaries and small holder farmers.

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BFAR’s

FishCORAL

project

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Agusan del Norte

Provincial News estimates that around P80 million will be allocated to improve the marine resources and fishing communities in Butuan Bay.

RAPID will be implemented by DTI in 20 provinces in Mindanao, including Agusan del Norte, and in Eastern Visayas.

FishCORAL, a US$ 43 million project, intends to improve marine resources and the livelihood of fishing communities in 11 bays nationwide.

RAPID aims to sustainably increase the income of small farmers and unemployed rural women and men across selected value chains.

Jerry Pacturan, IFAD Country Program Officer, was also happy to announce that around US$ 66 million funding for the Rural Agro-enterprise Partnerships for inclusive Development and Growth (RAPID) project was approved by the IFAD Executive Board in its meeting in April 2018.

With the approval of RAPID by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board on April 24, 2018, DTI Undersecretary for Regional Operations Group Zenaida Maglaya is very hopeful that RAPID will kick off on the ground by July 2018. (DAR-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

NC Jabonga, DTI-CARP Agusan Norte conduct training on cultural practices

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Agusan del Norte

Provincial News JABONGA, Agusan del Norte -Some 15 agrarian reform beneficiaries and members, comprised of 10 females and five males, of Libas Farmers MultiPurpose Cooperative (LFMPC) recently underwent training on “Cultural Practices on Coconut Sap Collection and Coconut Syrup Making.”

Caraga presented the current processing technologies, utilization, and recommended practices for the production of coco sugar.

He explained how coco syrup is an integral part of the process and its quality is assured by the proper collecting schedule of the sap, before The activity was aimed at the same reaches the fermentation addressing the raw material supply gap stage. of the Working Youth Club of Tubay, Orbeta and NC–Jabonga Inc. (WYC), maker of coco sugar, which needed a steady supply of coco syrup Project Staff Evelyn Mordeno said the facilitated by the Negosyo Center (NC) collaboration between WYC and LFMPC Jabonga and the Department of Trade could benefit both the organizations and Industry (DTI) Comprehensive guaranteeing continued production of their products, which are coco sugar Agrarian Reform Program (CARP). and coco syrup, respectively.

CARP Trade and Industry Specialist The training, that included Valentina Orbeta said that since most of the members of LFMPC are coconut lectures and hands-on making of coco farmers, they could very well cash in on syrup, was conducted at the LFMPC Processing Center, in Barangay Libas, this opportunity, thus the training. this municipality. (DTI-Agusan del Norte/ Jeruer Batchinetcha of the PIA-Agusan del Norte) Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA)-

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DOE News

DOE warns anew against use of refilled butane gas cylinders By: Lizbeth Ann Abella

Photo Courtesy of Rikki’s Scouting Sources

NAVAL, Biliran -- An official of the Department of Energy (DOE) Visayas has repeated its warning against the use of refilled butane gas cylinders now being widely used in households particularly outside Metro Manila.

science research specialist, said they will soon launch a massive information campaign in Eastern Visayas region warning people that portable camping stoves should only be used outdoors and not indoors.

Rey Maleza, DOE Visayas chief

He noted that although butane

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DOE News gas is cheaper and handy to consumers, the existence of illegal refilling stations it is hazardous because its cylinder has and households patronizing refilled more tendency to bulge than that of butane gas. liquefied petroleum gas that uses heavy Maleza was in Biliran as one of metal valve. the panelist during the information “It is very dangerous because stakeholders’ conference held in Naval when there is too much pressure due to Gymnasium in Naval Biliran. reusing, the tendency is to expand, which causes leak in the canister that Aside from the warning in the use will lead to fire,” he told reporters in a of refilled butane gas cylinder, Maleza forum here on Wednesday. also explained to participants the agency’s future plans and programs.

Maleza said that they will not The energy department will run after the retailers selling refilled cylinders, but will apprehend the users continue to strive to improve the quality of life of Filipinos by formulating and and illegal refilling stations. implementing policies and programs DOE encourages consumers to to ensure sustainable, stable, secure, report to the Bureau of Fire Protection sufficient, and accessible energy. (PNA)

Photo Courtesy of chemaxx

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Social Security System

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SSS News

SSS runs after delinquent employers in El Nido By: Celeste Anna Formoso Dooc was supposed to lead the issuance of show cause orders to 14 establishments in the municipality, which is known as a popular tourist destination, but four managed to comply at the last minute.

“We chose El Nido because it represents a fast developing progressive community that needs to be reminded of their obligation to SSS and to their EL NIDO, Palawan -- Social Security employees,” Dooc said.

System (SSS) President and Chief Executive The allegedly delinquent employers Officer Emmanuel Dooc on Monday personally issued show cause orders to are being ordered to explain their nonthe allegedly non-compliant proprietors of compliance with SSS regulations within a nine establishments as part of its intensified non-extendable period of 15 days. Failure Run After Contribution Evaders (RACE) to comply could subject them to criminal prosecution, which may lead to steep campaign. fines and even prison time.

Investigation showed that out of “What will happen here is we will the nine non-compliant employers, eight were found guilty for non-registration of not close the establishments. What we will business and one for non-remittance of do is to enforce collection or we will file contributions, Dooc, who arrived here cases against them. Not remitting funds or contributions to the SSS is a criminal early morning said. liability,” Dooc added.

The employers guilty for nonSSS Puerto Princesa Acting Branch registration were Scene Onsight (SOS) Restaurant, Amos Restaurant, Casa Head Abdultalib Abirin said out of 416 businesses only nine Carlota Pension, El Grande Tourist Inn, SSS-registered Mando Mango Inn, Island Hop Nido Hostel, have not been compliant. The number Ristorante La Lupa and Villa Dali Island Inc. of establishments covers over 1,000 employees. “We still don’t have the Meanwhile, Caera Travel and Tours new figure from the one-stop-shop,” with P71, 736.17 in total delinquency is he said indicating that there may be more establishments here than earlier guilty for non-remittance. recorded. (PNA) June 30 - July 06, 2018

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Mindanao News

3 Abu Sayyaf members surrender in Basilan By: Teofilo Garcia, Jr Besana said Salain “was formerly listed number six in other identified personalities in the Periodic Status Report (PSR)” of Basilan-based ASG and Urband Terrorist Group (UTG).

“Salain said during the initial debriefing that he decided to surrender because of the realization that this is not the life that he wanted,” he said.

ZAMBOANGA CITY--Ongoing military offensives have forced three members of the Basilan-based Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) to surrender separately to government authorities, military officials said.

Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. Juvymax Uy, Joint Task Force Basilan commander, and Senior Supt. Rufino Inot, Basilan police director, confirmed the surrender of the Habing brothers on Sunday in Barangay Baguindan, Tipo-Tipo.

Inot said they turned over an M-16 Armalite rifle with attached M-203 Those who surrendered were grenade launcher with ammunition identified as Omaidi Salain alias Abu and a bandolier.

Maidi; Jamad Habing, 22; and, his younger brother, Jem, 20.

He said the two brothers were followers of Furuji Indama, one of the Lt. Col. Gerry Besana, Western ASG leaders in Basilan province. They Mindanao Command (Westmincom) decided to surrender after learning information officer, said Salain that their comrades, who surrendered surrendered to the troops of the Army’s earlier, are enjoying a peaceful life 74th Infantry Battalion around 6:05 after they were properly reintegrated a.m. Saturday in Barangay Sinulatan, into the community, the police official Tuburan, Basilan. He brought along with added. him an M16A1 “Baby Armalite” rifle with a magazine of ammunition.

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Mindanao News Dela Vega, Westmincom chief said he “Rest assured they will be provided hopes that more Abu Sayyaf members with livelihood programs to support will surrender and “choose to live a their basic necessities,” Dela Vega peaceful life.” added. (PNA)

ARMM solon survives ambush, helper killed in Davao City By: Lilian Mellejor

Photo Courtesy of ABS - CBN News

DAVAO CITY – One person died in an ambush on a vehicle carrying a lawmaker of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao representing Maguindanao province’s second district on Monday afternoon in this city.

Police said Maguindanao Assemblyman Sidik Amiril, his helper Berry Adas ,and security escorts Kaharudin Manda and Jastipy Mamadras, were on board a black pickup driven by Moktar Adam, and were traversing the corner of Macupa and Chico Streets, Phase 4, Cuidad Esperanza in Cabantian, Buhangin District, when they were waylaid at around 2:30 p.m by persons June 30 - July 06, 2018

on a gray SUV, who had motorcycleriding men as back up.

In an initial report, the police said Adas, who was at the back of the pickup, was hit and died on the spot due to a lone gunshot wound in the head.

Ciudad Esperanza is a residential subdivision located some eight kilometers from the downtown area.

The incident is still under investigation and a team from the Buhangin Police Station is currently on a pursuit against the suspects. (Lilian C. Mellejor/PNA)

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National News

No speculations until probe on Halili’s slay completed: PNP By: Teofilo Garcia, Jr

Photo Courtesy of Philstar

MANILA -Authorities are awaiting a final report on the killing of Mayor Antonio Halili during Monday’s flag-raising ceremony at the Tanauan City Hall in Batangas.

Speaking to newsmen on Tuesday, Philippine National Police (PNP) spokesman Senior Supt. Benigno Durana Jr. said that as of now, conclusions as to the motive behind the incident as well as the identity of the gunman are mere speculations.

spokesman, citing the story of drug cartels as portrayed in video streaming site Netflix, said crime organizations have resources to acquire highly-skilled henchmen.

“They are capable hiring highly skilled criminals. They have the money.

At this time it is hard to speculate on something that was not yet established by a thorough investigation,” Durana explained.

Durana was replying to netizens who pointed out that only a rifleman with adequate training could have been skilled enough to shoot Halili from the bushes roughly 200 meters away from where the mayor was standing Halili, who has figured in a during the city hall grounds. controversy over his decision to publicly shame criminals and drug addicts in “As we’ve said, some are 2016, is in the government’s list of drug speculating,” Durana said.The PNP personalities. (PNA) Volume II, No. 65

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National News

AFP supports DND to end peace talks By: Priam Nepomuceno Photo Courtesy of Update.ph

MANILA -- The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is duty-bound to support the pronouncement of Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana calling for the termination of peace talks with the Communist Party of the PhilippinesNational Democratic Front (CPP-NDF).

position because of the eight reasons as already released to you by the Secretary of National Defense (Delfin Lorenzana),” he added.

Despite this pronouncement, Arevalo said that this does not mean that the AFP is against peace negotiations, This was disclosed by AFP stressing that it is supportive of peace spokesperson Col. Edgard Arevalo in process that is transparent, genuine, a press briefing in Camp Aguinaldo, and sincere.

Quezon City, Tuesday afternoon.

“A peace talk that embodies the “We, the AFP, (as) part of the desire of our people to put an end to all Department of National Defense, will this fighting so that peace and progress recommend to the President (Rodrigo can come in,” he added.

Duterte) to terminate the peace talks with the CPP-NDF led by Jose Maria Also, the AFP spokesperson chided “Joma” Sison. We advanced this Sison for pushing peace negotiations to June 30 - July 06, 2018

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National News enable the rebels to do the “4Rs” which that while the rebels were involved in the military defines as regroup, refurbish, peace negotiations, this did not stop them from hatching plans to oust recruit and recover lost grounds.

President Duterte.

“Hindi ang peace process na “They hatched this plan while the pinapaboran ng CPP-NDF. Nadiskubre natin, na nabanggit na from recovered government negotiating panel was in documents and statements ng mga Norway, talking to Mr. Sison, Jalandoni, sumuko sa atin ang duplicity ni Mr. Sison Tiamzon and et al. These communist and his ilk (We do not favor the peace terrorists do not only engage us (with) process being pushed by the CPP-NDF. double-talk, they actually want to We discovered the duplicity of Mr. Sison double-cross us. We say, we want and his ilk from recovered documents peace in the strict sense of the word, and statements of rebel surrenderers.) and if ever peace negotiations will be The peace talks espoused by Mr. held, this is to clarify our position, we Sison and his coterie is only a ploy for support localized peace talks where their cadres and militias to do the 4Rs, local government deals directly with regroup, refurbish, recruit and recover these communist terrorists and their members with the assistance of the AFP lost grounds,” Arevalo said. and other agencies of government,” Also, the AFP spokesperson said he added. (PNA) Photo Courtesy of Panay News

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For more info. contact: Tel. No.: (085) 225-9219 / 300-0722 Cell Nos. 0908-875-9185 / 0917-580-2609 / 0925-556-2417 June 30 - July 06, 2018 Email: inkboxinnovation@gmail.com Volume II, No. 65 35

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EDITORIAL BOARD

Business Managers

Executive Editor

ZARINA O. LASTRA REGAL C. ORIBIA

ABNER M. CAGA Associate Editor

FRYAN E. ABKILAN Managing Editor

NORA C. LANUZA MOLDE Copy Editor

VENUS LIM GARCIA Layout Artists

JOHN CHARLES B. MALAZARTE RONNIE E. MADANGUIT NIDA GRACE B. TRANQUILAN Surigao del Sur

SUSIL D. RAGAS

Surigao del Norte/Dinagat Islands

JENNIFER P. GAITANO Agusan del Sur

CHRISTINE T. TIKIM MARCO DAVEY D. REYES GIL E. MIRANDA JOYCE ANN L. ROCAMORA VANESSA P. SANCHEZ TEOFILIO GARCIA JR. LIZBETH ANN ABELLA PRIAM NEPOMUCENO CELESTE ANN FORMOSO LILIAN MELLEJOR MIO - CAGDIANAO PTV8 PPIO AGUSANDEL SUR NEMRC DA-RAFIS NFA PNA OWWA CARAGA DTI AGUSAN DEL SUR 75 IB/401ST BRIGADE PHIL. ARMY DAR AGUSAN DEL NORTE DTI AGUSAN DEL NORTE PNA Contributors June 30 - July 06, 2018

Photographer

ROBESPIERRE C. TRADIO RUDOLF BONNIN E. SANICO

Regional Office Jose Rosales Avenue, Butuan City E-mail: piacaraga@gmail.com; pia_caraga@yahoo.com.ph Telephone no. (085) 815 - 1991; Telefax No.: (085) 341-2370 Facebook: Philippine Information Agency Caraga 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

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