Caraga Infocus July 07 - 13, 2018

July 8 - 14, 2018

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Contents An Electronic News Magazine of Philippine Information Agency Caraga

Volume II, No. 66

07 - 13 July, 2018

Feature: A social worker’s priceless sacrifice

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ASEAN News: PH shares DOE News: DOE to highlight gender-fair media guidebook to energy resiliency in E-Power ASEAN Mo conference

SSS News: Philippines now has social security partnership with Germany, Japan

Regional News PSA to spearhead CES household8 based survey in Caraga 9 Caraga cops seize hot logs gears up for ISO 10 DSWD-Caraga 9001:2015 Certification this year Provincial News

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Dapa food service providers undergo basic food safety orientation

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Gamut Bridge in Surigao del Sur closed to traffic for repair

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Army urges lumads to report ‘migrants’ in CADT community

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Farmer-groups thank DAR-IFADConVERGE for agribusiness project in AgNor

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AgNor ready for Locational Referencing System

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AgNor town mandates lifeguards in resorts

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AgSur, DOLE Caraga sign MOU for JobStart PH program NC-San Francisco trains 25 SLP beneficiaries on entrepreneurship

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Mindanao News CDO mulls ‘lockdown’ policy 29 in future disaster response ops 31 9

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Westmincom installs new military chief in Basilan

National News 32

TRAIN law beneficial to PH: Pernia

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Anti-crime group handles Halili’s security: Calabarzon police

New Briefs PNP Caraga regional director Chief Supt Noli A. Romana swore to bring down physical injuries attributed to traffic incidents and help in finding a solution to the traffic problems in Caraga region. Romana said crime rate in the region rise to 17% from January 1 to June, 2018 compared with the same period in 2017 due to NonIndex Crime that increased from 581 in 2017 to 750 in 2018 respectively.

Gigaquit Mayor Elvira Egay, together with Police CSupt. Carlos L. Lozano, PSupt. Rolando T. Portera, and PInsp. Cyril S. Cubero, led the blessing, unveiling of marker and turn-over of the newly constructed 2-storey PNP building worth P3.7 million in Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte. (MPS-Gigaquit) #piaSurigaoNorte

Surigao Sur Gov Vicente Pimentel facilitated a dialogue this afternoon in relation to the issues raised by the leaders of the MAPASU organization from the different communities of Lianga town w/ the presence of Vice Gov. Manuel Alameda, Phil Army, PNP, DepEd, DILG, IPMR, LGU Lianga officials & religious sector. The discussions centered on the petition raised by the MAPASU leaders – the rejection of the establishment of the Patrol Base near to the Lumad communities. #piasursur

With the aim to respond to Climate Change and to mitigate its effects through the protection, rehabilitation and wise use of mangrove ecosystems, the Agusan del Norte PDRRMC will conduct a Mangrove Planting and Coastal Clean-up on Friday, at Cabadbaran City as part of this year’s observance of the National Disaster Resilience Month. #piaAgnor

The Negosyo Center (NC)-San Francisco in Agusan del Sur has recently equipped the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) beneficiaries of barangay Lapinigan on how to handle and manage business. This group will soon open their business by selling various commodities. Once the store is in place, trainings on Visual Merchandising will follow. Aldrin Abapo, the NC staff facilitated the training. He presented to the group the characteristics of a successful business, the concept of entrepreneurship and the distinction between livelihood and business.

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Cover Story

Feature: A social worker’s priceless sacrifice “I scheduled a Family Development Session in Sitio Babangnan that day. We were on our way when all of a sudden a massive wave struck our boat that it almost sank. I wanted to scream because of fear, but I didn’t,” said Diane Abarico, municipal link of Tubajon in the Province of Dinagat Islands, as she vividly recalled her unforgettable experience five years ago.

When the incident which took She was assigned in Imelda – place in late October 2013 comes a far-flung barangay composed to her mind, she still experiences of sitios with widely challenging trauma. paths to cross. Some of these can only reached through a sea “Ang ako lang gayud nasulti trip, thus riding a pump boat is a ato kay ‘Ginoo ko! Gusto pa nako necessity for most of the residents mabuhi! Tabangi mi!’ labi na kay there, especially for her. If she daghan na nangambak, ang cannot travel by sea, she walks uban nanghilak (All I silently uttered seven kilometers from the town was ‘God! I still want to live! Help proper passing through a difficult us!’ especially that many already jumped; some cried),” she shared road. through writing.

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“That experience did not stop me The experience made her in giving true service. In fact, it gave ponder on quitting the job, me more courage and passion. but it made her think of all the That is my priceless sacrifice.”

Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries in Sitio Babangnan, deprived of Diane is just one of the 602 their basic needs for a good and field staff of the Department of Social Welfare and Development healthy life. in Caraga who compassionately Being a social worker serve the poor, vulnerable, and awakened her enthusiasm to disadvantaged sectors in the help the disadvantaged people society. (Joana Rica P. Millama/ experiencing hardships.

Social Marketing Unit/DSWD Field Office Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Dinagat Island

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ASEAN

PH shares gender-fair media guidebook to ASEAN By: Joyce Ann L. Rocamora a text message.

SOMRI is within the ASEAN Ministers Responsible for Information (AMRI) tasked with raising ASEAN awareness among people of Southeast Asia.

SOMRI and the ASEAN Senior Officials Meeting for Culture and Arts (SOMCA) acknowledged that all ASEAN member-states have Code of Ethics for media but not all have specific guidelines for gender-fair media.

MANILA-The Philippine government has committed to the promotion of the gender mainstreaming process within the pillars of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) by sharing the Philippine Gender-Fair Media Guidebook to all ASEAN member states for review.

“Following the initiative of the ASEAN Commission on Women (ACW) in mainstreaming gender in the other sectoral bodies of ASEAN, we hope to enjoin SOMRI (Senior Officials Responsible for Information) to task its working groups to develop projects that would help promote gender equality and women empowerment in the region,” Communications Undersecretary Lorraine Badoy said in

During the parallel breakout sessions by at least 12 sectoral bodies at the Senior Officials Conference on Gender Mainstreaming in the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC), SOMRI together with the SOMCA identified the need for further guidance from the ACW. Badoy said the Philippines will cooperate with the ACW to further identify where the country as a member of the SOMRI can advance gender sensitivity in designing policies within the sector.

“We hope to have closer collaboration in the future with the ACW so we could identify areas where we can cooperate and work together in the advancement of women’s rights,” she said. (PNA) July 8 - 14, 2018

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Regional News

PSA to spearhead CES household based survey in Caraga By: Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY – The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Caraga is set to conduct the Consumer Expectations Survey (CES), a nationwide quarterly household-based survey on the consumers’ assessment of their family income, financial situation, and the economic condition of the country from July 2 to 14, 2018.

It was also learned that the survey aims to provide a quick and regular assessment of the financial condition of consumers and economic condition of the country at present and in the near future, from the consumers’ own viewpoints; to generate forecasts in the direction of the country’s economic activity based on consumers’ outlook in the current quarter, next quarter and the next 12 months; to provide quick and regular assessment of consumers’ confidence in terms of their income and expenditures as well as their outlook on key economic indicators closely monitored by the BSP such as inflation, exchange rate and interest rates; to provide quick and regular assessment of the saving condition of consumers and outstanding debt situation of the household head, their spouse/partner, their children and other family members at present.

PSA Caraga regional director Rosalinda Celeste-Apura said the CES is administered on a sample basis at “Agusan del Norte and Surigao the household level drawn through a del Norte are the provinces covered stratified multi-stage random sampling. for this survey round,” said Apura.

“It is a joint undertaking between the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). The PSA’s responsibility is to undertake the data collection and encoding of the questionnaires while generation of tables and analysis of the results for the BSP,” she added.

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All information collected by the hired Statistical Researchers from the sample households shall be kept strictly confidential and shall not be used for purposes of taxation, investigation or regulation as provided under Article 55 of Republic Act 10625. (JPG/PSA/PIACaraga)

Regional News

Caraga cops seize hot logs

BUTUAN CITY - Operatives from the provinces of Agusan del Sur and Agusan del Norte have confiscated an estimated 5,000 board feet of Lauan lumbers and 878.76 board feet (489.9 cubic meters) of illegally cut mixed round logs with an estimated market value of PhP392,810.00 on June 13, 2018.

Police Regional Office-13 director PCSupt. Noli Romana said the combined forces of the 15SAC - Special Action Force, Jabonga Municipal Police Station, Agusan del Norte Police Provincial Office, San Luis Municipal Police Station, Agusan Del Sur Police Provincial Office, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) seized the said forest products at Sitio Mahaba, P-3, Brgy. Baylo, San Luis,

Agusan del Sur and Denoel Enterprises, Brgy. Bangonay, Jabonga, Agusan del Norte.

Authorities also confiscated a sawmill engine and circular blade.

Mark Gil Perang and Rose Lopio, owners of Lauan lumbers, were arrested while Eduardo Cayag Manlapaz, owner of mixed round logs, is at large.

The confiscated lumbers are now in custody of the DENR for proper disposition.

“I am calling on the people in Caraga to continue working with the PNP and our partner agencies to stop illegal logging in our area,” Romana said. (PIA-Agusan del Sur) July 8 - 14, 2018

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Regional News

DSWD-Caraga gears up for ISO 9001:2015 Certification this year

BUTUAN CITY 1 - The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) led by its top management, is taking a step way higher through acquiring International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9001:2015 or commonly known as Quality Management System (QMS) Certification.

improvement of an organization.

ISO 9001:2015 is a renowned management system which provides an organized structure for incorporating a number of quality management principles including a strong customer focus, the motivation and implication of top management, the process approach and continual

DSWD Caraga OIC-Regional Director Mita Chuchi Lim stated that attaining ISO 9001:2015 will help in ensuring that customers get consistent, achieving good quality products and services, and bring many organizational benefits.

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To be fully equipped with the right tool for successful QMS Certification, DSWD conducted a Full Awareness Training Course for its key personnel on June 5 at the Field Office, Butuan City. This was facilitated by the Anglo Japanese American (AJA) Registrars.

“This training course from the

Regional News

With ISO 9001:2008 being incorporated in the Department since December 2015, DSWD seeks to be more client-friendly in its continued pursuit of service delivery in Caraga by putting greater emphasis on leadership engagement, helping address the organizational risks, and addressing supply chain management more effectively.

This year, the Field Office aims to transit from ISO 9001:2008 to ISO 9001:2015 QMS. The training course is just the first step for the whole transition process. (Joana Field Office is our way of affirming Rica P. Millama/Social Marketing the public that part of our ‘maagap Unit/DSWD-Caraga/PIA-Caraga) at mapagkalingang serbisyo,’ we shall ensure de-kalidad or quality service because this is what our clienteles deserve,” Lim said.

The primary objectives of the course are to examine the Structure of Management System Standards as evidenced in the 2015 version, understand the benefits of this new version, examine the requirements in the 2015 International Standard by comparing it to the existing 2008 version, and outline the preparation process and the certification process.

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Photo Gallery

DepEd Caraga 23rd Anniversary Celebration & Regional Launching of Oplan Kalusugan Almont Inland Resort, Butuan City 09 July 2018

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Provincial News

Surigao del Norte

Dapa food service providers undergo basic food safety orientation

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte (PIA) -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) recently conducted an orientation seminar on the Basics of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) – particularly on Food Safety held at the Islanders Ville Pension Hauz, Dapa town.

customer-service through cleanliness and food safety will surely increase sales and profits,” Catamora added.

The activity was conducted under the 2016 Bottom-up Budgeting project titled Small and Micro Enterprise Program in Dapa, with the aim of facilitating/ providing an enabling mechanism that The seminar aims to give food will hasten countryside development service providers a set of sanitation through opening of sustainable business guidelines for the physical and opportunities in the locality. processing operations standards.

The said seminar was facilitated The seminar benefited 25 selected with the help of Olimar Sulapas, Business food service providers in Dapa town Counselor of Dapa Negosyo Center. such as BBQ stand owners/vendors, (Susil D. Ragas/PIA-Surigao del Norte/ restaurants, carenderia and food house DTI-Surigao del Norte) owners and the like.

DTI Trade and Industry Development Specialist and Facilitator Malen Catamora said the orientation will make food service providers understand the importance of personal hygiene, provide awareness on food hazards and contamination, and the importance to ensure only quality products are produced.

“Owners and staffs should practice the basics of food safety since nowadays customer’s focus is on health and wellness,” she said.

“This means that executing proper 14

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SURIGAO DEL NORTE

Surigao del Sur

Provincial News

Gamut Bridge in Surigao del Sur closed to traffic for repair

By: Nida Grace P. Barcena

TAGO, Surigao del Sur, (PIA) – The 60-day temporary closure of the Gamut Steel Bridge along SurigaoDavao Coastal Road in Tago town has started on Tuesday, June 26, and will run until August 26, 2018, based on the advisory released by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) -Surigao del Sur 1st District Engineering Office (1st DEO).

Engr. Bantugan also said the construction of the bypass road in Poblacion, Tago is currently ongoing and it would soon be used as an alternate road for all types of vehicles.

Engr. Jerome Mezo, project engineer for the ongoing construction of the bypass road traversing Tago town, said the completion of the construction depends on the releasing of funds from DPWH 1st DEO chief engineer Ruel the DPWH. Bantugan said, in a radio interview, that the Gamut Steel Bridge will undergo The agency’s regional office rehabilitation of the deck slab/ manages the construction of the superstructure. bypass road. (VLG/PIA-Surigao del Sur) Based on the advisory released earlier, all north and south-bound motorists are advised to use the alternate road in Barangay La Paz, Bayabas to Tago Poblacion route.

However, the municipal streets of Poblacion, Tago, accordingly, are not passable for those vehicles with heavy body chassis including the 14 and 16-wheeler wing-van or stake-body and low bed trailers with prime mover due to the narrow road.

The main streets are also undergoing major repair in the said municipality.

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Surigao del Sur

Provincial News

Army urges lumads to report ‘migrants’ in CADT community

By: Nida Grace P. Barcena TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, (PIA) – The Philippine Army reminded anew the lumads to stay alert and to report to authorities any presence of individuals with suspicious motives in their area that may arouse conflict within their communities.

This was again emphasized after six non-indigenous people (IP) persons identified as employees of the Tribal Filipino Program of Surigao del Sur (TRIFPSS) had entered the Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title (CADT) community in Barangay Libas Sud, San Miguel, Surigao del Sur. Indigenous peoples mandatory representative (IPMR) Datu Rico Maca said, in an interview over the local radio, that those persons who entered illegally in the premises of the IP communities aimed to conduct a dialogue in order to convince the lumads to patronize the TRIFPSS school which is not accredit by the Department of Education (DepEd).

Trinidad, 36IB commanding officer, supported the statement of Datu Maca by reiterating that “there is a municipal ordinance in San Miguel regulating the entry of migrants or non-government organizations (NGOs).”

Trinidad further said the municipal ordinance was enacted to prevent the entry of unidentified personalities especially those with ill motives towards the inhabitants, particularly the CADT areas, which became prey to the manipulative and deceptive tactics of communist New People’s Army (NPA) terrorists.

Report said, the troops of 36IB acted upon the request of the barangay officials in line with the commitment and support under the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFPs’) Community Support Program for the peace and order initiatives of the barangay.

It was also learned that said personalities had also visited Sitio Sangay Accordingly, they did not go and Sitio Hayon, all in barangay Libas through the process that would allow Sud on January 19 and 20, respectively. them to conduct their activities in the area. The protocol forbids their visitation Maca also confirmed that these as no permit or clearance from the communities already had its newly Municipal Tribal Office was issued to installed and operationalized DepEd them.

- Elementary School of Living Tradition (ESLT) for IPs. (VLG/PIA-Surigao del Sur) Lieutenant Colonel Xerxes 16

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Agusan del Norte

Provincial News

Farmer-groups thank DAR-IFADConVERGE for agribusiness project in AgNor By: Gil E. Miranda

BUTUAN CITY -- Farmers from different Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Organizations (ARBOs) in Agusan del Norte are grateful to the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) finance project under the Convergence on Value Chain Enhancement for Rural Growth and Empowerment (ConVERGE) implemented by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) of Agusan del Norte.

Vice-President of External Relations and Governance, and Wei Wang, IFAD Director for APL and Special Adviser to the IFAD President at San Isidro Upland Farmers Multi-Purpose Cooperative or SIUFMULCO of Santiago town on May 6, 2018.

“It is exciting to see how much potential there is for family farms and indigenous producers when they are fully engaged in inclusive value This was the collective voice of chains and have access to markets, the group-leaders expressed during the technology and financing,” Salford visit of Charlotte Salford, IFAD Associate said.

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Agusan del Norte

Provincial News

DAR Agusan del Norte Provincial Director Andre B. Atega said that the project has invested around P180 million funds in support to abaca enterprise and related commodities in the province that will cater to the needs of the farmers involving SIUFMULCO and 20 other participating farmer-groups in Tubay, Jabonga, Kitcharao and Santiago.

ConVERGE for the period of 2016 to 1st quarter of this year performance, the project claimed P55.6 million or 31 percent of P180 million total project cost allocated up to 2021.

This performance included the 80 classes with 13 types of Capability Enhancement Trainings to 21 peoples’ organizations; provision of 12 mobile stripping machines; one unit 10-wheeler truck; provision of planting materials and other farm inputs covering 300 hectares distributed to ten ARBOs; and farm-tomarket road to be implemented within this year.

Leonora Mila, SIUFMULCO Manager, said that they are very thankful for the ConVERGE interventions and support services provisions that bring positive impact in the lives of the In her visit, Salford was joined by Wei farmers in the cluster.

Wang, IFAD Director for APL and “The interventions of project Special Adviser to the IFAD President; ConVERGE indeed changed not only IFAD Country Programme Officer Jerry the acres of abaca plantation but also Pacturan; Special Adviser, Yolando the way of life among the famers,” Mila Arban of IFAD Philippines Country Office; and DAR Provincial Director added.

Andre B. Atega, CESO V. (DAR-Agusan Based on the data of DAR, three del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte) years in the implementation of Project

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Provincial News

AgNor ready for Locational Referencing System By: Aimee B. Sienes

BUTUAN CITY -- Provincial Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba is set to sign a Memorandum of Agreement with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Road Board for the establishment of the “Locational Referencing System� for all provincial and city roads in the province of Agusan del Norte.

with the Road Board and DILG for the said establishment of the Locational Referencing System for all provincial and city roads, for proper implementation of the program. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/ PIA-Agusan del Norte) Photo Courtesy of Agnor Bulletin

She has been authorized recently by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Agusan del Norte to sign such MOA through Sanggunian Resolution No. 096-2018, authored by Provincial Board Member Dick Victor B. Carmona.

The province is one of the recipients of the Road Board Project for the establishment of the Locational Referencing System for all provincial and city roads, comprising the conduct of road and bridges inventory (Phase 1) and installation of kilometer posts (Phase 2).

The Motor Vehicle Users Charge (MVUC) law allocates 5 percent of its funds for the Special Local Road Fund (SLRF), which is apportioned for the maintenance of provisional and city roads, on the basis of vehicle population and length of the road network for each locality.

In line with this program, the province needed to ink an agreement July 8 - 14, 2018

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Agusan del Norte

Provincial News

AgNor town mandates lifeguards in resorts By: Jessica O. Mellejor

BUTUAN CITY -- The local government of Magallanes, Agusan del Norte is now requiring the owners and operators of resorts and other similar structures and facilities for bathing and recreation, to provide duly certified lifeguards and life-saving tools and other equipment for their operation, as provided for under Municipal Ordinance No. 017-2017.

Guard, the “Guidelines for Safety and Security Requirements of Coastal and Beach Resorts, and Vessels with Pool Facilities Including Qualification and Requirements of Lifeguards for the Promotion of Safety of Life at Sea”.

The said ordinance has been approved by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Agusan del Norte, as it is in line with the Memorandum Circular No. 03-14 issued by the headquarters of the Philippine Coast

It was approved through the efforts of Provincial Board Member Lucia E. Jundis, through Sanggunian Resolution No. 059-2018. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

It is also consistent with Section 81, 116 and 122 of the Provincial Ordinance No. 173-2005, “An Ordinance Setting Guidelines in the Operation of Tourism The step has been made to Industries and other Related Business ensure the security of visitors and other Establishments in the Province of establishments.

Agusan del Norte.”

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Agusan del Sur

Provincial News

AgSur, DOLE Caraga sign MOU for JobStart PH program

BUTUAN CITY, -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Caraga represented by assistant regional director Naomi Lyn Abellana and Agusan del Sur Public Employment Service Office (PESO) thru manager Divina Lagumbay, together with Agusan del Sur Governor Adolph Edward Plaza, signed the Memorandum of Undertaking (MoU) for the first implementation of JobStart Philippines Program in the region held recently at the Governor’s Office, this province.

up to three months of JobStart-funded technical training and another three months of work experience with a ‘matched’ employer/ establishment.

The interns in return will be receiving at least 75 percent of the minimum wage in the relevant city/ municipality,” Abawag added.

Agusan del Sur was chosen as a pilot area in Caraga region for the DOLE’s Jobstart Program, in coordination with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Government of Canada.

PESO Agusan del Sur Manager Divina Lagumbay said a total of 100 Jobstart Philippines is a DOLE slots are open for the program as per implemented project through its local MOU with the province.

PESO office that aims to shorten the youth’s school to work transition by Target recipients are out-of- enhancing the knowledge and skills school youth or undergraduate or fresh they acquired in formal education or graduates aged 18 to 24. Qualified technical training, in order for them recipients are those currently not to become more responsive to the working or enrolled in training, with less demands of the labor market. (JPG/ than one year or no work experience DOLE-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del and at least high school graduate.

Sur) “The concerned job seeker will be given P200 per day as stipend for his or her transportation and food allowance,” said Henry Abawag, Jobstart Project Coordinator during his courtesy call at the Agusan del Sur Governor’s Office.

“Those who will be selected will undergo 10 days of life skills training, July 8 - 14, 2018

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Agusan del Sur

Provincial News

NC-San Francisco trains 25 SLP beneďŹ ciaries on entrepreneurship

SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur, -- The Negosyo Center (NC) in San Francisco, this province, recently equipped the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) beneďŹ ciaries of Barangay Lapinigan, this municipality on how to handle and manage a business.

characteristics of a successful business, the concept of entrepreneurship and the distinction between livelihood and business.

The participants were also oriented on the risks and rewards the entrepreneurs may encounter while This group will soon open their engaging in business. business by selling various commodities.

As the seminar ended, participant Once the store is established, trainings on visual merchandising will follow.

Richel Dumas expressed that she was contented on the topics presented and Aldrin Abapo, the NC staff, the sharing of learning. (DTI-Agusan del facilitated the training.

Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur) He presented to the group the

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DOE News

DOE to highlight energy resilie By: Ma. Cristina Arayata

MANILA -- The Department of Energy (DOE) will highlight energy resiliency in its 6th E-Power Mo conference slated on June 26 at its office in Taguig City.

breakout sessions, with topics on downstream oil and natural gas, upstream oil and gas, renewable energy, power, alternative fuels, energy efficiency, and the consumer sector.

The conference will focus on resiliency, in anticipation of the rainy season in the coming months. Experts in this highly specialized area will be the main speakers in the plenary session, DOE spokesperson Felix William Fuentebella told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) on Thursday.

Fuentebella said the DOE seeks to compile all programs and initiatives in the energy sector through the Resiliency Compliance Plan.

DOE 24

has

prepared

“After reviewing these plans, the DOE will sit down with stakeholders for knowledge sharing and the adoption of standards and best practices,” he several added.

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ency in E-Power Mo conference

the safe handling of petroleum products Energy stakeholders and and LPG cylinders, and clearing of the consumers were invited to the power lines for energy security. conference.

According to the DOE, energy The 6th E-Power Mo conference, resiliency is also about ensuring that with the theme, “Developing Energy homes, communities, and businesses are Resilient Philippines”, aims to raise public able to adapt to unforeseen situations awareness about its role in attaining this and have access to the uninterrupted supply of energy services. goal.

“All sectors must work hand-inhand to attain energy security. The DOE is not only focused on managing the supply, but also on the demandside. As a whole, the DOE believes that a clearer understanding of the entire Fuentebella shared attendees energy chain by the energy consumers could also learn about the simple will go a long way,” Fuentebella efficiency practices and habits that said. (PNA) greatly contribute to resiliency efforts, “The public can contribute by being informed. Participation in E-Power Mo conferences is a good avenue to be familiarized on what the citizenry can do,” he remarked.

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Social Security System

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SSS News

Philippines now has social security partnership with Germany, Japan

SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Emmanuel F. Dooc said that these bilateral SSAs, aimed at reducing or eliminating nationality- and territorybased restrictions on social security, will benefit an estimated 47,214 Filipinos in Germany and 182,917 Filipinos in Japan, who are working or residing permanently in these two countries.

principles are embodied in the 1962 ILO Social Security Convention No. 118 on the Equality of Treatment and the 1982 ILO Social Security Convention No. 157 on the Maintenance of Social Security Rights. There are four salient features of an SSA namely: (1) equality of treatment, (2) export of benefits, (3) totalization of insurance periods, and (4) mutual administrative assistance.

SSAs promote the welfare of all persons covered under the social “With the bilateral SSAs in place, security programs of either or both Filipinos are now entitled to social countries for retirement, disability security benefits under the same and death contingencies. Its guiding conditions applicable to nationals July 8 - 14, 2018

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SSS News

of Germany and Japan and we are Further, as designated liaison looking forward to extend the same agencies, the bilateral SSAs will be protection to more Filipinos working or implemented by the SSS and the residing abroad,” said Dooc.

Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) for the Philippines, the Deutsche Covered persons and their Rentenversicherung for Germany and beneficiaries, through the provision Japan Pension Service for Japan, on export of benefits of the SSA, can to facilitate mutual administrative receive their social security benefits assistance. regardless of whether they decide to reside in the Philippines, in Germany, in “The SSS, in collaboration with the Japan, or even in another country.

Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Department of Labor and Employment The “totalization of insurance (DOLE) and other social security period” allows the consolidation of institutions, will continue to pursue SSAs contribution periods made in both with other countries to promote the countries for the benefit of a worker who welfare of overseas Filipinos and ensure fails to meet the minimum qualifying social security protection in times of conditions for pension entitlement in contingencies”, said Dooc. either or both countries.

In total, the Philippines has 13 For example, under the Philippine bilateral SSAs with Austria, UK and Social Security Law, a member must Northern Ireland, Spain, France, have at least 120 monthly contributions Canada, Quebec, Netherlands, to qualify for a retirement pension. Switzerland, Belgium, Denmark, Without the SSA, a member with only Portugal, Germany and Japan covering 100 monthly contributions will only more than 1.34 million OFWs. receive a lump-sum amount consisting of total contributions paid plus interest.

“Without the totalization provision of the agreement, a member will not be entitled to a retirement pension if only 100 monthly contributions are paid. However, under the agreement, he or she may qualify for a retirement pension if at least 20 or more monthly contributions or creditable periods are made under the social security scheme of Germany or Japan,” said Dooc.

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Mindanao News

CDO mulls ‘lockdown’ policy in future disaster response ops

By: Danilo Adorador, III

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY--The repeated occurrence of flooding in the city’s main roads has prompted the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) to consider a “lockdown” policy for the safety of people stranded in flooded areas.

waist-deep flooding in one of the city’s major thoroughfares a day earlier.

Caused by hours of heavy rainfall, the flash flood trapped hundreds of people, who had to be rescued by trucks.

“Our intention here is to make CDRRMO chief Verner Monsanto this policy as an ordinance, so that presented this proposal during a post- the public, especially the parents evaluation briefing on July 11, following (of stranded students), would not July 8 - 14, 2018

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Mindanao News

worry,” Monsanto said. “It’s part of the responsibility of the government to Meanwhile, City Councilor ensure the safety and security of the Teodulfo “Bong” Lao Jr., who heads people.” the city council’s committee on public utilities, said the legislative Monsanto said a “lockdown” body will tackle the CDRRMO’s means people inside flooded schools, recommendations for the crafting businesses, and other establishment will of an appropriate ordinance and not be allowed to venture outside until corresponding implementing rules and rescue arrives. regulations.

In addition, he said flooded streets Lao also said the city’s disaster should be sealed off from motorists. response and preparedness have recently seen significant improvements The CDRRMO chief noted with the activation of deputized civilian that some motorists often insist on enforcers at the barangay level. These negotiating flooded streets, resulting in civilian volunteers, he said, are being a gridlock that hampers rescue effort. trained to assist disaster response teams.

Monsanto said the “lockdown” rule may be implemented during major weather anomalies, such as typhoons, the presence of a low-pressure area, and thunderstorms accompanied by heavy rainfall.

Acting City Administrator Teodoro Sabuga-a Jr. acknowledged that the “lockdown” proposal would require broad support from the public.

He said the provision of food and other necessities for trapped people during a lockdown should also be taken into consideration.

Sabuga-a noted that based on their monitoring, floodwaters usually subside after an average of four hours.

If flooding occurs in the evening, stranded people “need to at least consume small servings of food and water.”

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The CDRRMO said it will continue monitoring the torrential rain that has been going on since July 9, which the state weather bureau attributed to the southwest monsoon affecting Northern Mindanao. (PNA)

Mindanao News

Westmincom installs new military chief in Basilan

By: Teofilo Garcia, Jr ZAMBOANGA CITY--The Basilanbased military command now has a new leader with the Western Mindanao Command’s (Westmincom) installation of Col. Fernando Reyeg as commander of the Army’s 104th Infantry Brigade.

Reyeg officially assumed the post during a ceremony held Friday “Today, Basilan has gained a lot at the Camp Luis Biel II that houses through the joint collaborative effort the headquarters of the 104th Infantry based on the outlook and positive Brigade in Barangay Tabiawan, Isabela indicators by outsiders,” Uy added.

City, Basilan.

Uy served as the 104th Infantry Reyeg replaced Brig. Gen. Brigade commander for 18 months.

Juvymax Uy, who was recently assigned as the deputy commander of the Maj. Gen. Roseller Murillo, Army’s Army’s 6th Infantry Division based in 1st Infantry Division commander, Maguindanao. presided the turnover of command ceremony.

Prior to his current designation, Reyeg was the Westmincom’s Chief of The 104th Infantry Brigade is one of Unified Command Staff. the three brigades under the command of the Army’s 1st Infantry Division.

“As I assume command of this Brigade, I will work on sustaining the Murillo commended Uy for gains made by Brigadier General Uy the outstanding performance and in securing Basilan Province so that numerous accomplishments of the development will further take place,” 104th Brigade under his leadership.

Reyeg said.

“Sabi nga ni John F. Kennedy, Uy, in his message, reckoned the peace-making is not just a 1-day accomplishments of the 104th Infantry activity. It is a daily, weekly, monthly, Brigade under his leadership, including and yearly activity. So for the rest of the reduction of the Abu Sayyaf Group the stay of Colonel Reyeg here he will (ASG) from a peak of more than 200 be working for the peace in Basilan,” hundred followers and firearms to the Murillo said, addressing to Reyeg. (PNA) current number of 40.

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National News

TRAIN law beneficial to PH: Pernia By: Leslie Gatpolintan

MANILA -The proposed suspension of the tax reform law could hamper the implementation of the administration’s massive infrastructure and social programs that would benefit millions of Filipinos, the country’s chief economic planner said Friday.

Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto Pernia said the implementation of the first package of the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) law “has been very beneficial” for the country.

fund the “Build, Build, Build” program and various social programs, including the conditional cash transfer (CCT), unconditional cash transfer (UCT), free tuition in state universities and colleges (SUCs), free irrigation for farmers, and ‘Pantawid Pasada’ cash grants.

“We are spending a lot so people should know that it’s not a good idea to just suspend or abolish the TRAIN law because many of these spendings on social programs like CCT, UCT, SUC free tuition cannot be implemented.

And of course, the Build, Build, Build Pernia said the law has improved program will be hampered,” he said in fiscal space for the government to an interview in his office.

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National News

The second package of the The Duterte administration tax reform program seeks to lower intends to spend PHP9 trillion on its corporate income tax rates and massive infrastructure program which is rationalize fiscal investment incentives. expected to generate about 1.1 million Some lawmakers have reiterated new jobs every year. their call for the suspension of the TRAIN The National Economic and law amid increasing inflation rate, Development Authority (NEDA) also while others suggested postponing estimated the “Build, Build, Build” the collection of additional excise tax program contributes as much as under the law.

PHP31.2 trillion to the economy over The country’s inflation rate rose to 5.2 percent in June 2018 due to faster the next five years. price increases in major commodities Implemented last January like food, fuel and transport.

1, TRAIN is the first package of the Such increases were caused by Comprehensive Tax Reform Program (CTRP) which reduces personal income various factors, including global oil taxes and adjusts excise taxes on fuel prices, peso depreciation and rice prices. and automobiles.

“We hope the TRAIN 2 will be passed before the end of the year because that’s also a critical package of CTRP. The CTRP is a very sound program, well studied (law), and it is the outcome of so many consultations,” Pernia added.

“While we recognize the public sentiment on rising prices, let us remind ourselves that the TRAIN law increased the take-home pay of 99 percent of income taxpayers. And this should help in coping with the rising prices of goods,” Pernia said. (PNA)

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National News

Anti-crime group handles Halili’s security: Calabarzon police By: Benjamin Pulta

MANILA -- Slain Tanauan City, Batangas mayor Antonio Halili’s own men were in charge of his close-in security and not policemen when he was shot last week, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said Monday.

Halili’s supervisory powers over the police.

Speaking to newsmen in Camp Crame, Police Regional Office Calabarzon acting director Chief Supt. Edward Carranza said an armed Mayor’s Anti-Crime Group (MACG) had been formed by Halili’s office.

Video footage of the incident at the Tanauan City Hall grounds last week show that subsequent shots were fired after Halili slumped on the ground from a sniper’s shot to the chest during the flag raising ceremonies.

These personnel, Carranza said, were armed with registered pistols bought by city hall.

Carranza added that they The MACG took over the duties of guarding the mayor shortly after recovered spent bullet casings for the National Police Commission .45 and .38 caliber pistols from the (Napolcom) decided to withdraw site. (PNA) Photo Courtesy of financialtribune.com

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