Caraga Infocus - August 04 - 10, 2018

An Electronic News Magazine Of PIA Caraga

August 04 - 10, 2018 • Volume II, No. 70 • Caraga InFocus

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An Electronic News Magazine Of PIA Caraga

Contents

An Electronic News Magazine of Philippine Information Agency Caraga

Volume II, No. 70

04 - 10 August, 2018

Abilities of PWDs underscored, Caraga gov’t agencies in joint force for NDPR Week

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SSS News: SSS chief supports Duterte tax reform bid

DOE News: DOE Underscores E-Safety in the Power Sector

ASEAN News: PH assumes coordinatorship for ASEANChina Dialogue

Regional News 12

RH campaign for youth takes social media

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Butuan PNP bags top spot in BPAT skills competition

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Catholic lay leaders to help teach FP

Provincial News 18

DAR unveils farm biz school in Dinagat

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Lumads stage protest rally vs NPA in SurSur

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SurSur all set for 2018 rescuers summit, rescue group exercise

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DAR AgNor launches Farm Business School for agrarianfarmers

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69 Mamanua families receive houses

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NNC’s CROWN Maintenance Award includes AgSur contenders

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401st Brigade commander highlights solidarity among personnel

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Army awards deserving personnel in AgSur

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Mindanao News

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Troops, Sayyaf bandits clash in Sulu

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Coast guard searches for 8 missing passengers in PHMalaysian border

National News 32

PNP eyes linking police database to nat’l ID system

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PRRD signs national ID law

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News Briefs

• The 16th National Occupational Safety and Health Congress set on November 20-21, 2018 at the PICC will highlight discussions on strategies that OSH experts in various industries employ to combat work-related accidents and illnesses, establish the OSH culture in their respective workplace, & encourage more individuals to become champions of OSH.

• The 402nd Brigade thru the 23rd IB with the provincial government of Agusan del Norte had successfully facilitated the safe return of 54 families with 254 individuals to their homes in Sitio Tabon, Nasipit, Agusan del Norte. It can be recalled that the displaced families left their community last August 1 when members of Guerilla Front Committee 4 of North Central Mindanao Regional Committee threatened their peaceful lives. (Source: Cpt Al Anthony B Pueblas, CMO Officer 402Bde) • The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Agusan del Sur Provincial Office has recently released P460,000.00 worth of ‘Negosyo sa Kariton’ (Nego Kart), including cart accessories to the 23 ambulant vendors in the municipality of San Francisco, this province. The Livelihood project given to the beneficiaries is under the DOLE-Integrated Livelihood and Emergency Employment Program (DILEEP), which aims to help the informal sector workers in the entire region to generate income through this program from the Department. The project was implemented with the collaboration of the DOLE, Philippine Employment Service Office (PESO) and the local government unit of San Francisco, Agusan del Sur. • The members of the HEALS Plus Convergence convene this morning for a convergence meeting to discuss HEALS Plus Direction 2018-2019, SURNECO issues, presentation of schedule of major events of Prov’l Govt from August to December, and culture & arts implementation & MTB-MLE Sinurigaonon & Localized & Contextualized Instructional Materials (IMs).

• The City of Bislig in Surigao del Sur is a beneficiary of the Department of Information & Communications Technology (DICT) Rural Impact Sourcing Technical Training (RISTT) Program wherein 25 scholars underwent a rigid selection process. They were given 12-day face to face training on web development, eCommerce, Digital Marketing and Graphic Design. (Source: LGU-Bislig City) • The province of Dinagat Islands has been awarded for 3 consecutive years as the 1st place winner for Best DRRMC Category during the recently concluded 2018 Regional Gawad Kalasag Award held in Butuan City. Other winners are the municipality of Cagdianao-1st place winner for best MDRRMC 1st to 3rd category class; Barangay Esperanza, Municipality of Loreto -Best Barangay DRRMC rural category; and the municipality of Loreto-3rd place winner for Best Municipal MDRRMC 4th to 6th class category. (PDRRMO-Dinagat Islands) August 04 - 10, 2018 • Volume II, No. 70 • Caraga InFocus

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Cover Story

An Electronic News Magazine Of PIA Caraga

Abilities of PWDs underscored, Caraga gov’t agencies in joint force for NDPR Week by: Mike Ariel Plaza

There is “ability” in the word “disability.”

This was the core principle of the celebration of the 40th National Disaster Prevention and Rehabilitation (NDPR) Week in the region on July 17-23, 2018, with the joint efforts and initiatives of member government agencies of the Regional Council for Disability Affairs (RCDA) led by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-Caraga.

Anchored on the theme, “Kakayahan at Kasanayan Para sa Kabuhayan Tungo sa Kaunlaran,” the activities of the celebration all aimed to recognize and cultivate the talents and skills of the members of the Persons with Disability (PWD) sector.

Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer of Agusan del Norte.

Tejano, who is also a PWD, added that what the sector needs today is to be recognized and capacitated with enough trainings so that they may be able to improve in doing what they are best at “Our PWDs do not really need to and enrich themselves. be pitied, they need to be provided with opportunities,” said Silver Joy Tejano, DSWD OIC Regional Director August 04 - 10, 2018 • Volume II, No. 70 • Caraga InFocus

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Mita Chuchi Gupana-Lim stressed the celebration was the Ability Olympics or importance of supporting the PWDs and Abilympics held July 19 at Butuan City opening doors for them to identify their where members of the PWD sectors from own sets of skills. different cities and municipalities came to outdo each other in different competitions “What we can do now as which included waste reuse, flower government agencies is to continue on arrangement, pastel painting, outdoor strengthening the programs for the PWD photography, English text processing, sector and provide them enough platforms webpage making, desktop publishing and to showcase these skills,” Lim said, adding E-games. that through the activities set for the NDPR Week, she hopes that the PWDs will soon During the celebration, freelance learn “to break the shells of shame that animator Jethro Alvarico of Brgy. Bonbon, this discriminating world has imposed on Butuan City was also awarded as the Regional Successful PWD TVET (Technical them.” and Vocational Education and Training) One of the highlights of the Graduate.

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members of the PWD sector and said, Alvarico said in an interview that the “dapat maningkamot ‘ta luyo sa atong skills he acquired through the Technical mga disability (let us all strive hard for life Education and Skills Development amidst our disabilities).”

Authority (TESDA) has been a stepping stone for him to establish his livelihood as Other activities of the NDPR Week included a training on cookery and cake an animator. decoration on July 18 as well as a skills “Akong gigamit akong disability demonstration on bread and pastries held isip usa ka inspirasyon sa pagkat-on July 20 at Cabadbaran City. og animation. Natawo ko nga adunay The NDPR Week is an annual disability pero ako nangita og pamaagi arun makita nako kung unsa akong celebration of the Philippine government, abilidad (I considered my disability an provided for by Presidential Proclamation inspiration in learning animation. I may No. 361, observed every third week of have been born with a disability but I July, culminating on July 23, the birthdate have found a way to discover my ability),” of one of the country’s heroes and a PWD himself, Apolinario Mabini. (Mike Ariel Alvarico stressed.

Plaza, DSWD/PIA-Caraga) He also wanted to inspire other

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An Electronic News Magazine Of PIA Caraga

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SSS chief supports Duterte tax reform bid by: Joann Villanueva

Photo Credit to Inquirer.net

MANILA -- Social Security System (SSS) President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Emmanuel Dooc expressed support for the administration’s tax reform program, taking note of its benefits to the agency and its members.

For one, the first tax reform package, The agency currently have around called the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) and implemented 36 million members but Dooc earlier said since January 2018, cut workers’ income only about 15 million are active members. tax rates, among others.

With the proposed tax reforms, the The second CTRP package, SSS chief said reforms in the country’s meanwhile, proposes the reduction tax system will help provide jobs to more in corporate income tax (CIT) and people and allow them to be enrolled in SSS. rationalization of tax incentives.

“SSS is just one of the vessels that fly Dooc said the reduction of CIT rates will encourage more investors to open the seas and so we hope that with better economy, with more businesses, with businesses and create more jobs. more active small businesses, with lower “More businesses mean more CIT our economy will grow. And we’ll have members, more paying members,” he more members capable of paying higher contributions,” he said. said.

The increase in the number of SSS members will boost the agency’s revenues, which in turn will allow SSS to provide more services to its members, he said.

“That will help us achieve our mission of providing affordable universal and meaningful social security benefits,” he added. (PNA)

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Photo Gallery

Philippine Statistics Authority PRESS CONFERENCE on Republic Act No. 11055

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August 04 - 10, 2018 • Volume II, No. 70 • Caraga InFocus

Photo Gallery

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Regional News

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• Regional News

Photo Credit to Rosanna Gamutan - Duran

RH campaign for youth takes social media BUTUAN -- The United States Agency for International Development-Mindanao Health, along with the Commission on Population (PopCom) - Caraga and other government offices, took the campaign for Adolescent Reproductive Health to next level through its recently launched newest project “Caraga #SoMe4AYRH” Campaign.

Caraga #SoMe4AYRH or social media for adolescent and youth reproductive health project is an interactive learning tool that promotes, educates and provides youth and adolescents with correct information on life skills, responsible sexuality and reproductive health that can help protect them from poor decisions and abuse.

Arlys D. Demata, Mindanao Health Area Technical Team Leader for Caraga Region, admitted that young people nowadays use social media to express themselves, to belong in certain groups, and experiment with their personalities and identities.

Filipino youth of today embraces new media. About 78% have cellular phone, 59% use the internet and 53% have social networking account.

Being partner for said initiative, PopCom-Caraga developed a Facebook page devoted for interactive forum of adolescent sexuality and reproductive concerns.

While communication in today’s world is an important factor for any institution, PopCom Caraga Regional Director Alexander A. Makinano recognized the advantage of technology, the internet and the social media in creating awareness and providing According to the 2013 Young Adult adolescents good access to news and Fertility and Sexuality Study (YAFS 4), health information.

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However, PopCom-Caraga, in all its information dissemination activities, cautioned the young people to be responsible online and mindful when using an online educational platform or create digital content. Internet is a space where people can discover new things, but it is also a dangerous place if not use safely and responsibly, said Makinano.

• Regional News

With the concerted efforts of program partners and stakeholders, PopCom hopes that this intervention will help create positive environment that will enable all young people to maximize their potential, develop their capabilities to manage their future and become responsible individuals. (PopCom-Caraga/ PIA-Caraga)

Butuan PNP bags top spot in BPAT skills competition BUTUAN CITY -The Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team (BPAT) contingent of Butuan City Police Office (BCPO) won first place during the 1st Police Regional Office (PRO)13’s BPAT Skills Competition, held Saturday here.

Photo Credit to CaragaPulis Pio

The competition was held in line program,” PRO-13 Director Chief Supt. Noli with the observance of the 23rd Police Romana said.

Community Relations (PCR) Month participated in by the Police Provincial The region’s top cop also added that Offices and BCPO. apart from developing the capabilities and confidence of the BPAT in responding Six teams showcased their readiness to the different scenarios, the activity also and effectiveness in the arrest and aimed at strengthening the partnership handcuffing techniques, disaster response between the police and the force multipliers. during earthquake and medical first aid.

“We recognize the role of our Also recognized as winners during BPAT in our crime prevention and crime the competition were the team from solving efforts, internal security operation Agusan del Norte Police Provincial Office and disaster management and control as 2nd place and the team from Surigao August 04 - 10, 2018 • Volume II, No. 70 • Caraga InFocus

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del Norte Police Provincial office which 1st place, PhP7, 000.00 for the 2nd place garnered third place. and PhP5, 000.00 for the 3rdplace. (FEA/ PRO13/PIA-Caraga) Winners received PhP10, 000.00 for the

Catholic lay leaders to help teach FP Photo Credit to Diocese of Butuan

NFP methods could also be the cause of the government, as well as the Church’s, limited promotion of NFP program, aside from the fact that some couples considered NFP methods too difficult to adopt.

PopCom Caraga Regional Director Alexander A. Makinano admitted that promoting the family planning program to faith-based organizations particularly the Catholic Church is both a challenge and an opportunity to gain support for the said BUTUAN CITY -- Leaders of the Diocese of Butuan program. vowed to promote Responsible Parenthood To build on the gains of RP-NFP, and Natural Family Planning (RP-NFP) after attended the training-workshop organized PopCom Caraga continued its collaboration by the Commission on Population-Caraga with non-government organizations (NGOs), (PopCom) in Agusan del Sur and Agusan faith-based organizations (FBOs), and religious del Norte, respectively, in collaboration with organizations in the region by conducting RPNFP training to enhance the capability of the Family and Life Apostolate.

Church’s workers and volunteers in teaching As a strategy to engage different sectors and monitoring the NFP methods of their and gather support for advocacy initiatives, acceptors and would-be acceptors in their PopCom-Caraga reached out to religious respective communities. leaders to intensify its campaign on NFP PopCom emphasized that the training program among church workers, volunteers and parishioners in order to address the needs is designed to mainstream the NFP program, of married couples who wanted to plan the to strengthen the government and the size of their family and to space births by giving Church partnership in the implementation of adequate information on fertility awareness the program particularly in the region, and to promote the value formation that is integral to and natural family planning methods. the Church’s moral guidelines and to enable With the latest National Demographic the target couples to make an informed and Health Survey (NDHS), 33% of currently choice based on the formation of a right married women are using modern conscience. contraceptives, 16% are using traditional methods and less than one percent is adopting In its continuing advocacy, PopCom Caraga will conduct another RP-NFP trainingmodern Natural Family Planning methods. workshop for Candelaria Parish leaders and According to PopCom, the NDHS’s members in Cabadbaran City, this August. indication of less than one percent use of (PopCom-Caraga/PIA-Caraga) August 04 - 10, 2018 • Volume II, No. 70 • Caraga InFocus

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DOE Underscores E-Safety in the Power Sector

contributions from various sectors on the safe use of electricity that could serve as models for all energy stakeholders. It also seeks the practices that may be adopted by different communities and groups for their own benefit.

MANILA -- As part of continuing efforts to promote electrical safety practices in the country, the Department of Energy (DOE), the Manila Electric Company (MERALCO) and key experts met to discuss the Kuryenteng Ligtas Program (K-Ligtas) which enhances the E-Safety principle under the DOE’s E-Power Mo Movement on 27 July at the agency’s headquarters in Taguig City.

The parties further discussed the DOE’s Resiliency Policy, which requires energy players to submit their respective Resiliency Compliance Plans. USec. Fuentebella said such plans will be incorporated in succeeding policies to improve the country’s energy resiliency standards.

Given the extensive experience of MERALCO in power distribution, the Undersecretary asked the MERALCO Power Academy to initiate the discussions towards a policy on electrical safety standards.

Also present were representatives from the MERALCO Power Academy, the Institute of Integrated Electrical Engineers “We are working towards an energy and the DOE Electric Power Industry safe and resilient Philippines. To do this, Management Bureau (EPIMB). (DOE) we constantly dialogue with our partners to collaborate our efforts towards the promotion of having an energy efficient lifestyle for our consumers,” DOE Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi said.

DOE Undersecretary Felix William B. Fuentebella and MERALCO Vice President and Head of the Organizational Safety and Resiliency Office, Engr. Antonio Abuel Jr. led the meeting. The K-Ligtas Program of MERALCO recognizes exemplary programs and work practices of various organizations through the Electrical Safety Awards (LINK). K-Ligtas also cites August 04 - 10, 2018 • Volume II, No. 70 • Caraga InFocus

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Provincial News

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Provincial News • Surigao del Norte

DAR unveils farm biz school in Dinagat SAN JOSE, Dinagat Islands, (PIA) - The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in Surigao del Norte recently launched the Farm Business School (FBS) special project in Barangay Wadas, municipality of Dinagat, this province.

A total of 34 farmers coming from the three participating agrarian reform beneficiaries’ organizations (ARBOs) have enrolled in this project to endure the 25 modules for over four months to be held in weekly sessions.

The said ARBOs are the Wadas Credit Cooperative of Brgy. Wadas, Magsaysay Farmers Agra Comsumers Cooperative of Brgy. Magsaysay, and Cayetano Consumers Cooperative of Brgy. Cayetano.

how to make it profitable,” Dacoron said.

In his message, Alfredo E. Alvarez, chief agrarian reform program officer of DARSDN, emphasized to the participants that they are the privileged ones to be the recipients of the capacity building program and market access.

“I encouraged you to give your best efforts and diligently complete your course and eventually be successful farmer entrepreneurs in the near future,” Alvarez challenged the participants.

During the launching, a According to Concordia M. Dacoron of Brgy. Wadas, she has been planting Memorandum of Agreement for the vegetables for the longest time already farm business school was inked between the DAR, DTI, local government unit of and FBS comes just in time.

Dinagat and chairpersons of the three “This program is a big help for us ARBOs. (Daryll M. Tumbaga, DAR-SDN/ farmers, not only that it will develop our PIA-Dinagat Islands) skills in improving farm yields but also on August 04 - 10, 2018 • Volume II, No. 70 • Caraga InFocus

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Provincial News • Surigao del Sur

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Lumads stage protest rally vs NPA in SurSur by: Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur -- Some 500 lumads on Wednesday held an indignation rally at the Vicente L Pimentel Sr. Boulevard here to denounce the atrocities allegedly committed by the CPP-NPA terrorists (CNTs) in the tribal communities of Surigao del Sur. The lumads, composed mainly of farmers, women, youth, and local officials from the municipalities of Tago, San Miguel, Cagwait, Lanuza, Cortes and Tandag City, expressed their dismay about the CNTs’ series of attacks in their community and the killing of several indigenous peoples.

Philippine National Police (PNP) during the condemnation rally is their commitment to support the people for their quest for justice and desire for genuine peace.

“I was elated by the presence of Lumad leaders and other groups for coming out in the open. They stood up They cited the recent killing of the mustering their courage so that their voices tribal leader named Datu Bobong Elizalde be heard by the public against the CNTs,” of Barangay Calatngan, San Miguel said Lt. Col. Trinidad. allegedly by the CNTs on July 12 while another IP member was assassinated in “Now, the people were enlightened Barangay Bitaugan of same town. Both of who are the real ‘berdugo’ and victims opposed to the establishment of oppressor of the Filipino people. To the the Tribal Filipino Program of Surigao del Sur CNTs, stop killing Lumads and other civilians!

(TRIFPSS) school with no accreditation from Stop blaming the Army of your criminal actions. Lastly, We are one in condemning the Department of Education (DepEd). the attacks to the Lumads and to the Meanwhile, Lt. Colonel Xerxes peace loving Surigaonon,” Lt. Col. Trinidad Trinidad, commanding officer of the 36th added. (NGPB/36IB-CMO/PIA-Surigao del Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army, clarified Sur) that the presence of the army and the August 04 - 10, 2018 • Volume II, No. 70 • Caraga InFocus

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Provincial News • Surigao del Sur

SurSur all set for 2018 rescuers summit, rescue group exercise by: Nida Grace P. Barcena

Photo Credit to @babaengmaingayy

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, -- The provincial government of Surigao del Sur, headed by Governor Vicente Pimentel Jr. thru the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), is all set for the 2018 Rescuers Summit and Rescue Group Exercise to be held in Cantilan, Surigao del Sur on July 28-30, 2018.

PDRRMO chief Abel de Guzman said the Zumba exercise from 5:00 a.m. to 6:00 the local government unit of Cantilan will a.m. Other activities include rescue group exercise-maritime incident, team building host this year’s event. and basketball inter-cluster friendly game.

On the first day of the event, De For the last day of the activity, a cleanGuzman said Tandag City City Local Government Operations Officer Joseph up drive will be conducted to be followed Porgatorio will talk on the “Role of Rescuers by the Basketball Inter-Cluster Friendly Game in Climate Change Adaptation” and Gracia Championship. The culmination program will Espere will share volunteerism as a way of then follow, which will highlight the awarding life. Meanwhile, TESDA Provincial Director of prizes to the winners.

Rey Cueva will discuss the competency De Guzman said the activity is assessment and certification of rescuers. conducted yearly, in line with the National De Guzman also said that a mass Disaster Resilience Month (NDRM) celebration, casualty incident exercise will also be held which aims to foster camaraderie, enhance during the opening day. On the evening, the the skills and build alliance and partnership host LGU will sponsor a welcome dinner party among the members of the Search and to all the participants, and to add colors and Emergency Response Team of Surigao del excitement, PDRRMO will sponsor a Chant Sur commonly known as SERTSS volunteers in and Pop Dance Contest. the province. (PIA-Surigao del Sur) On day two, the host LGU will lead August 04 - 10, 2018 • Volume II, No. 70 • Caraga InFocus

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Provincial News • Agusan del Norte

DAR AgNor launches Farm Business School for agrarian-farmers by: Gil E. Miranda

TUBAY, Agusan del Norte -- The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) of Agusan del Norte has intensified its effort to enhance the knowledge in agricultural productivity and promote economic activity under the recently launched Farm Business School (FBS) project for the two Agrarian Reform Beneficiary Organizations (ARBOs) here.

Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer II Andre B. Atega said the government is now providing enough support services to the ARBOs with the aim of developing the farmers to become agricultural entrepreneurs.

Tubay Mayor Fidel G. Garcia, in his message, challenged the farmers to work hard and should learn lessons from the failures of several projects implemented.

DRCHVPA President Hector dela Cruz proudly accepted the project and promised to do their best to make it more profitable.

“Dako namong garbo na kami nakadawat niini nga hagit ug among ipasalig na kami maningkamot aron kini malamposon (We accepted the challenge and promised to make it a success, in support to the call of the government to He added that the FBS project make it sustainable),” he said. develops farmers to make their farm The project launching was also profitable and can effectively respond to attended by DTI provincial director Brenda present day farming challenges.

Corvera, Agricultural Training Institute The recipients of the training program representative Engr. Joel Laure, municipal are some 28 members of the Doña Rosario agriculturist Delma Vasquez, Tubay vice Certificate of Land Ownership Award (CLOA) mayor Raquim Cuyos, and CSWD officer Holders Vegetable Producers Association Evelita Regis. (DAR-Agusan del Norte/PIA(DRCHVPA) and Kabayawa Sala Farmers Agusan del Norte) Association.

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Provincial News • Agusan del Norte

69 Mamanua families receive houses JABONGA, Agusan del Norte -- Sixty-nine families of the Mamanua Tribe in this town finally received their own houses under the Jabonga Mamanua Tribal Village Project of the National Housing Authority (NHA) and the Local Government Unit (LGU).

Jabonga Mayor Jasmin F. Monton, in her message during the turnover ceremony on June 30, said that although the journey took longer - more than five years, she was happy that the project has finally materialized and will now be enjoyed by the Mamanuas.

staff Mikie D. Villanueva and Evelyn P. Mordeno discussed about doing needs assessment first with a profiling of their skills and interest as a first step.

Agatha Mining representative Jecil Lad also expressed interest to help.

Monton also said the NHA provided NC Jabonga will also be working PhP10 million and about PhP5 million from closely with personnel from the National the LGU for the said project.

Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Elsie Namuag who is assigned in the Although the village is a recipient of area and the tribe’s leader Datu Rogelio a royalty share from the operations of a “Baludoy” Bebe. nearby mine - the Agatha Mining Ventures, Inc., the LGU of Jabonga has seen the In the same activity, both LGU need for the tribe to be given assistance Jabonga and the Mamanua tribe and guidance in terms of sustainable recognized the pioneering efforts of Engr. livelihood and source of income.

Carlito Oraiz of Orgon Wood Industries in helping the tribe through their religious’ Currently the families’ means of living outreach programs. are either farming, fishing and working in the mine.

Also present during the ceremony were representatives from the NHA, In the pre-program huddle with the Department of Social Welfare and Mayor Monton, Department of Trade Development and other LGU functionaries. and Industry (DTI) Agusan del Norte OIC- (DTI-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del provincial director Brenda B. Corvera, Norte) Negosyo Center (NC) Jabonga project August 04 - 10, 2018 • Volume II, No. 70 • Caraga InFocus

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Provincial News • Agusan del Sur

Mayor Jenny De Asis of San Francisco, Agusan del Sur and Mayor Kim Lope Asis of Bayugan City will be attending the National Nutrition Award as the contenders from Caraga region for the First Year CROWN Maintenance Award category.

The awarding ceremony is slated on July 31, 2018 at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City.

Other contenders of the said award include the municipality of Kalayaan, Laguna led by Mayor Teodoro A. Adao Jr.; municipality of Roxas, Oriental Mindoro led by Mayor Jackson C. Dy; municipality of Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon led by Mayor Clive D. Quiño; and City of Tagum, Davao del Norte led by Mayor Allan L. Rellon.

NNC’s CROWN Maintenance Award includes AgSur contenders

by: Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY(PIA) – The municipality of San Francisco and the city of Bayugan, both in the province of Agusan del Sur are among the contenders of the Consistent Regional Outstanding Winner in Nutrition (CROWN) Maintenance Award of the National Nutrition Council (NNC).

The First Year CROWN Maintenance Award is presented to local government units (LGUs) that are able to meet the minimum required score of 90 points for efficient and effective nutrition program management leading to sustained nutrition improvement among its populace.

The National Nutrition Awarding Ceremony is an annual event that the NNC spearheads to recognize outstanding LGUs and nutrition volunteer workers called Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNSs) with effective and efficient implementation of nutrition programs resulting to improved nutrition situation especially among infants and young children. (PIA-Agusan del Sur)

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Provincial News • Agusan del Sur

401st Brigade commander highlights solidarity among personnel by: Jennifer P. Gaitano

mission.

“The brigade, including our battalions, combat support and service support units, did not fail the people of Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur in protecting them from threats, and will continue to keep them safe in their communities and facilitate the resolution of their issues and concerns with all the concerned agencies of government through their community support programs in the barangays,” said BGen. Centino.

In putting substance to its mission, BGen. Centino also emphasized that the brigade does not only ensure the safety and security of the populace but also takes part in community peace building, reaching out to people in the grassroots and creates an atmosphere where all can work together in harmony towards economic and human development.

AGUSAN DEL SUR -- As the 401st Brigade, Philippine Army celebrates its 46th anniversary, Brigadier General Andres Centino highlighted the solidarity and unity among their personnel through the years in the area of responsibility.

BGen. Centino said the past year was full of challenges, however, the brigade remained solid, united and have faced those challenges fearlessly.

He also acknowledged the efforts of the operational control units and all the men and women of the brigade for their sincere dedication in accomplishing the brigade’s

“For 46 years, the 401st Brigade, Phil.

Army, has remained focused in its mission and will continue to uphold peace and security among civilians and stakeholders in its area of responsibility,” expressed BGen. Centino.

The commanding officer also bared that the brigade also gives emphasis in engaging the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) being the most vulnerable sector to CPPNPA exploitation.

“The brigade initiated an IP Leaders Forum in Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur in order to facilitate the resolution of their issues and concerns. They also facilitated the attendance of IP Leaders in Davao City for a dialogue with President Rodrigo Duterte, and just last March 2018, the first Regional IP Leader’s Summit was held in

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Butuan City through the recommendation of 401st Brigade and was adopted by the Regional Peace and Order Council,” he recalled.

The 401st Brigade, Phil. Army, started its humble beginning in Jolo, Sulu. It was first activated as the 4th Infantry Brigade on December 1, 1972 pursuant to general order number 45, General Headquarters, Armed Forces of the Philippines. It was

Provincial News • Agusan del Sur

organized under 4th Infantry Division under the command of Col. Alfonso Alcoseba as its first commander. Under its operational control were 26th Infantry Battalion operating in Basilan province; the 11th Infantry Battalion operating in the coastal areas of Taglibi Patikul, Sulu; and the 1st Marine Battalion landing team (MBLT) operating in Sibalo Hills, Sulu. (PIAAgusan del Sur)

Army awards deserving personnel in AgSur by: Jennifer P. Gaitano

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur -- The 401st Infantry (UNITY) Brigade, Philippine Army, has awarded 10 deserving personnel from the different battalions.

The activity, held at Camp Datu pinning of awards to the deserving Lipus Makapandong, New Leyte, Brgy. personnel who have contributed to the Awa, Prosperidad, this province, was in success of their combat operations. line with its 46th anniversary celebration.

The awardees include TSgt. Joseph MGen. Ronnie Villanueva, Frago of 26th Infantry Battalion (26IB), commander of the 4th Infantry Division, SSgt. Joseph Hulibayan of 75IB, 2Lt. Begie together with BGen. Andres Centino, de Jesus of 26IB, 1Lt. Bryan Villena of 9th commander of 401st Brigade led the Special Forces Company, 1Lt. Rogie August 04 - 10, 2018 • Volume II, No. 70 • Caraga InFocus

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Munos of 3rd Special Forces Battalion, Sgt. Joel Manalo of 26IB, Sgt. Rogelio Baroro of 26IB, Corporal Artemio Ubo of 26IB, SSgt. Ronie Dador of 75IB, and Sgt. Maurino Mohammad of 75IB. Meanwhile, Col. Maurito Licudine, deputy brigade commander of 401st Brigade warmly welcomed all the guests and recalled how partner stakeholders joined them in the last year’s celebration.

Provincial News • Agusan del Sur

He said the brigade, including their battalions, combat support and service support units did not fail the people of Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur in protecting them from threats, and will continue to keep them safe in their communities and facilitate the resolution of their issues and concerns with all the concerned agencies of government through their community support programs in the barangays.

As the honored guest and speaker, He further stressed that the occasion is very significant as they Brigadier General Rogelio Villanueva once again celebrate the success and (RET), 9th commander of the brigade, shared how the 401st brigade personnel accomplishments of the brigade. surpassed all the challenges and hardships “All this would not be possible if not through the years that have brought because of the full support from the LGUs, about significant changes in the lives of government agencies and locals in the the people in its area of responsibility. area of responsibility,” he said.

He also encouraged all the men Also, BGen. Andres Centino and women of the 401st Brigade to congratulated the entire 401st Infantry continue working in unity with its partner (Unity) Brigade, its officers, men and stakeholders and locals of the areas women for another year of excellent covered and promote sustainable peace and development. (PIA-Agusan del Sur) performance.

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ASEAN News

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PH assumes coordinatorship for ASEAN-China Dialogue

by: Joyce Ann L. Rocamora

Photo Credit to news.abs-cbn.com

MANILA -- The Philippines has officially taken over from Singapore the role of country coordinator for the ChinaAssociation of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Dialogue.

“We have a very good window to not only include but make part of the whole code of conduct the protection of marine environment,” he told reporters in a press conference last week.

Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Assistant Secretary Elmer Cato said the Philippines’ coordinatorship began Thursday, right after a meeting between the foreign ministers of ASEAN and China.

The 10-member bloc and China have already expressed hopes on the COC’s conclusion by November 2018, when ASEAN leaders and its dialogue partners meet for the ASEAN Summit.

DFA Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano, before leaving for Singapore, said the Philippines will be playing a “crucial role” as the country coordinator for the dialogue, particularly as both parties work towards the early conclusion of the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea (COC).

Meanwhile, the joint communique of the 51st ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting revealed that ASEAN and China had agreed on a Single Draft COC Negotiating Text during the 15th ASEAN-China Senior Officials’ Meeting on the Implementation of the DOC on June 27. (PNA)

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Mindanao News

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Mindanao News

Troops, Sayyaf bandits clash in Sulu by: Teofilo Garcia, Jr

ZAMBOANGA CITY -- Government troops military has yet to determine if there were recovered a firearm with ammunition casualties on the enemy side. abandoned by Abu Sayyaf bandits following a firefight in the province of Sulu, The troops also recovered an M16A1 “Baby Armalite” with 19 rounds of the military said Saturday. ammunition during the clearing operation Lt. Gen. Arnel dela Vega, Western at the clash site.

Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief, said the clash occurred in Barangay “The Joint Task Force Sulu continues to intensify its campaign against the Angilan, Omar, Sulu on Friday.

Abu Sayyaf with support from the local Dela Vega said the clash erupted government and the populace,” dela as the troops from the 2nd Special Forces Vega said.

Battalion under the Joint Task Force Sulu “The command is right now at an chanced upon a group of Abu Sayyaf bandits while conducting reconnaissance advantage since the local government units, the Moro National Liberation Front, in Barangay Angilan. the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, and the He said the troops overpowered the traditional leaders are helping government bandits, who fled southeast. No one was troops in fighting terrorism,” the military wounded among the troops, while the official added. (PNA)

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Mindanao News

Coast guard searches for 8 missing passengers in PH-Malaysian border ZAMBOANGA --- The members of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Southwestern Mindanao District is now intensifying its efforts to search for the remaining eight, out of the 16 passengers of a motorized vessel that capsized off the PhilippineMalaysia border last July 30.

In a press release issued Wednesday, Lt. Commander Noriel Ramos, Coast Guard Zamboanga Station chief, said a motorized temper type boat carrying around 16 passengers sunk off the waters Ramos said Coast Guard officials of Siamil, Sabah near the Philippine- in Tawi-Tawi have already made the Malaysian border as recounted by Ibrahim necessary coordination with Malaysian Hassan Mandul, the lone survivor. authorities for the search and retrieval of the eight missing passengers.

Mandul was earlier rescued by patrolling coast guard personnel off the Commander Captain Joseph seas of Tawi-Tawi.

Coyme of the PCG District Southwestern Mindanao immediately dispatched MRRV Ramos said they recently recovered 4408 to augment the ongoing search and at the vicinity of Sitangkai Reefs seven retrieval efforts of various law enforcement decomposing bodies, which were units in the area. immediately buried in Sitangkai, Tawi-Tawi, according to Muslim tradition.

Coyme also coordinated with Bakamla, the Malaysian counterpart As of press time, Ramos confirmed of PCG. Also, PCG will form a maritime that eight passengers of the ill-fated motor casualty investigation team to determine boat remained missing. the cause of the sinking of the motorized boat.

Aside from Mandul, Ramos identified the passengers of the motorized boat PCG has directed the Bongao as Muin Tahil (boat operator), Hassan station commander to submit a Maritime Mandul, Adzral Hussin, Fairul Faizal, Aljanib Casualty Investigation Report to prevent Tahil, Adzfar Tahil, Aldison Tahil, Rasiya Ami, the recurrence of the incident. It was Jenny Ibrahim, Liya Hussin, Amira Faizal, learned that the said motorized boat is Nurhuda Albain,Manhuda Albain, Matida unregistered and it is being used to illegally Darmasiyun, and Ru-Indah Darmasiyun. cross the border. (PCG-Zamboanga PR) August 04 - 10, 2018 • Volume II, No. 70 • Caraga InFocus

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National News

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Photo Credit to newsinfo.inquirer.net

National News

the PNP can look forward to migrating our own National Crime Information System and the National Police Clearance System to a national database for sharing with other government agencies to optimize the operational potential of the entire national ID system,” Albayalde noted.

“All these government applications stand to benefit more than the quite limited law enforcement and internal security applications due to privacy and basic rights issues associated with gathering of personal information that need to be observed and upheld,” the PNP chief added.

PNP eyes linking police database to nat’l ID system

Signed into law by Duterte on Monday, the measure seeks to integrate the various government IDs of all citizens and foreign residents in the country.

Government-issued IDs include the Unified Multi-Purpose ID (UMID) issued to the members of the Social Security System (SSS) and Government Service Insurance by: Benjamin Pulta System (GSIS); Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth); Tax Identification MANILA -- The Philippine National Police Number (TIN); and the Home Development (PNP) on Tuesday welcomed the enactment Mutual Fund (Pag-IBIG Fund). of Republic Act 11055 or the Philippine Identification System Act (PhilSys) by The President tasked the Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, which will pave Statistics Authority (PSA) to work closely the way for a national ID system that would with the National Privacy Commission, ensure 106.6-million Filipinos access to a the Department of Information and wide range of government services and Communications Technology, and the privileges. multi-agency PhilSystem Policy and Coordination Council to address all PNP chief Director General Oscar concerns pertaining to privacy and Albayalde said they are even considering security. the possibility of linking the police force’s database with the new system in the The Senate and the House of future.

Representatives ratified the national ID system bill on May 29 and 30, “With the PhilSys law now in effect, respectively. (PNA) August 04 - 10, 2018 • Volume II, No. 70 • Caraga InFocus

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National News

PRRD signs national ID law

MANILA -- President Rodrigo R. Duterte on Monday signed into law the Philippine Identification System Act which seeks to integrate the various government IDs of all citizens and foreign residents in the country.

Duterte affixed his signature on Republic Act 11055 on the same event that an equally important measure, the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL), was presented to Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Chair Al Haj Murad Ebrahim at the Malacañang Palace.

by: Jelly Musico

trade and commerce to thrive,” Duterte said in his speech.

At present, some of the governmentissued IDs include the Unified MultiPurpose ID or UMID issued to the members of the Social Security System (SSS) and Government Service Insurance System (GSIS); Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth); Tax Identification Number (TIN); and the Home Development Mutual Fund (Pag-IBIG Fund).

Duterte appealed to support the National ID system or “Phil-ID” which also “Today, I signed into law the Philippine seeks to promote the efficient delivery of Identification System Act, a measure that services and to lessen corruption and red will establish a single national identification tape in the government. system that will provide good governance, “This will not just enhance enhance governmental transactions and create a more conducive environment for administrative governance but reduce August 04 - 10, 2018 • Volume II, No. 70 • Caraga InFocus

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corruption, curtail bureaucratic red tape, and promote the ease of doing business, but also avert fraudulent transactions, strengthen financial inclusion, and create a more secure environment for our people,” he said.

National News

House Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, for passing the Phil-ID and BOL.

He also thanked former Senate President Aquilino ‘Koko’ Pimentel III and former House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez for their active involvement in the passage The President allayed fears peddled of both measures. by some groups that the National ID would infringe privacy and personal data of the “Indeed, the passage of these laws Phil-ID holders. speak well of their able leadership and firm resolve to rise above divisive partisan “Let me be very clear about this: politics,” Duterte said.

The information that will be included in the Phil-ID will not be any different from Both the Senate and the House of the information already in the possession Representatives ratified the national ID of the Philippine Statistics Authority or the system on May 29 and 30, respectively. former NSO, GSIS, PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG Fund, COMELEC, and other agencies that Senator Panfilo Lacson, chairman gather personal data,” Duterte said. of the Senate committee on public order and dangerous drugs, spearheaded the He said the Philippine Statistics passage of the Palace-backed bill.

Authority (PSA) will work closely with the National Privacy Commission, “I ask everyone to join me as we the Department of Information and decisively implement measures that will Communications Technology, and the create an environment where our people’s multi-agency PhilSystem Policy and concern will no longer be center on their Coordination Council to address all safety and security, but on charting a concerns pertaining to privacy and future they can proudly bequeath to security. succeeding generations,” Duterte said.

“There is therefore no basis at all for Duterte signed the BOL or R.A. 11054 the apprehensions about the Phil-ID, unless two days after his State of the Nation of course that fear is based on anything Address (SONA) on July 23. (PNA) that borders to illegal,” Duterte said.

“If at all, the Phil-ID will even aid in our drive against the social menaces of poverty, corruption and criminal issues, as well as terrorism and violent extremism,” he added.

Duterte expressed his appreciation to the two houses of Congress, led by Senate President Vicente Sotto III and August 04 - 10, 2018 • Volume II, No. 70 • Caraga InFocus

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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 August 04 - 10, 2018 • Volume II, Email: No. 70 •inkboxinnovation@gmail.com Caraga InFocus

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ONE MINDANAO MOBILE APP

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EDITORIAL BOARD

An Electronic News Magazine Of PIA Caraga

Executive Editor

ABNER M. CAGA Associate Editor

FRYAN E. ABKILAN Managing Editor

NORA C. LANUZA MOLDE Layout Artists

JOHN CHARLES B. MALAZARTE RONNIE E. MADANGUIT

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

Copy Editor

VENUS LIM GARCIA NIDA GRACE B. TRANQUILAN Surigao del Sur

SUSIL D. RAGAS

Surigao del Norte/Dinagat Islands

JENNIFER P. GAITANO Agusan del Sur

MIKE ARIEL PLAZA DARYLL M. TUMBAGA GIL E. MIRANDA JOCYE ANN ROCAMORA TEOFILO GARCIA JR. BENJAMIN PULTA JELLY MUSICO POPCOM CARAGA POLICE REGIONAL OFFICE XIII DOE DAR - SURIGAO DEL NORTE 36IB - CMO DAR - AGUSAN DEL NORTE DTI AGUSAN DEL NORTE PNA Contributors Business Managers

ZARINA O. LASTRA REGAL C. ORIBIA Photographer

ROBESPIERRE C. TRADIO RUDOLF BONNIN E. SANICO

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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