Caraga InFocus - December 10-16, 2016

CONTENTS 10 - 16 December 2016

REGIONAL NEWS

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DOH Caraga strengthens #IwasPaputok campaign Butuan dad considers children as the most important sector Butuan SPED Center reaps awards in RSPC 2016

PROVINCIAL NEWS

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DENR identifies CarCanMadCarlan as selfsustaining ‘model area’

Volume 1, No. 37

MINDANAO NEWS

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Biz groups pitch for EAGA projects, partnerships

NATIONAL NEWS

30 resolution on the P2,000 SSS eyes signed joint

COVER

Young Surigaonons make waves in the Youth Development Convergence in Caraga

pension increase before yearend

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Two days before Christmas, PWDs can start enjoying VAT-free purchases, other benefits under RA 10754

spearheads 7-day 15 Cagdianao SAR training Caraga displays 16 POPCOM model families

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DTI releases new SRP for consumers

than 2,000 Caraga 19 More OFWs, families join the 2016 OFW Family Day

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AgNor holds reintegration activity for illegal drug surrenderers

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Caraga 23 POPCOM launches ‘KATROPA on Hardcourt’

HEALTH NEWS

24 Cutting down on salt

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News Briefs A Standard Operating Procedures & Guidelines of the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction & Management Council (RDRRMC) Operations Center has been approved by the council. It will serve as guide on how RDRRMC members work in times of disasters & coordinate all disaster management activities of the natl/local agencies & all instrumentalities in Caraga region to optimize available resources.

To ensure maximum police presence in the streets during the forthcoming Yuletide season, a total of 2,543 police personnel will be deployed in places of worship, malls, markets, commercial areas, business districts, bus terminals, seaports, airports, tourist destinations, vital installations and other places of public convergence in Caraga region.

Tiyaking PhilHealth-accredited ang ospital at doktor para hassle-free sa pag-aavail ng PhilHealth benefits. Tumawag sa 441-7442 o mag-email sa actioncenter@philhealth.gov.ph

A total of 215 mobile blood donations with partner stakeholders were conducted in the month of November 2016, the Blood Service Committee of the Phil. Red Cross Agusan del Norte-Butuan City Chapter reported during its meeting today. Also, for blood processing fee, the blood service facility was able to collect the total amount of P994,640.00.

Cover Story

Young Surigaonons make waves in the Y Development Conve in Caraga By: Susil D. Ragas

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URIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte - The first ever Youth Development Convergence event in Caraga region dubbed “Para sa karadjawan: Jari na kami! (For development: We are here!) kicked-off on December 3, 2016 held at the Provincial Sports Complex, this city.

The successful whole day event which aimed to signify the willingness of the youth to be part of the development of Surigao was spearheaded by the Provincial Economic Enterprise Development and Management Office (PEEDMO) headed by Graciela Mante, a Spring 2016 Young Southeast Asian Leaders

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Initiative (YSEALI) professional fellow whose placement was in Cook County Bureau of Economic Development in Chicago, Illinois and a mentor for Economic Development for the YSEALI Alumni Mentoring Program through Leadership and Influence to the Filipino Youth (AMPLIFY).

Mante said the event aspired

REGIONAL NEWS

s Youth er gence

food and merchandise booths and information booths from the academic community. Lectures consist of talks on basic photography, Surigaonon language, business experiences from young entrepreneurs, financial literacy and international scholarship opportunities. As a culmination of the event, live bands concert and variety show were done featuring local youth talents. It was participated by eight bands and 15 performing groups comprising of students and out-ofschool youth.

“The Jari na Kami event also celebrated the 3rd anniversary of YSEALI YOUnified and joined the ASEAN community in simultaneous conduct of youth events all over the region.

Launched in 2013 by President Barrack Obama, YSEALI nurtures youth

to empower the youth in the pillars of education, environment, economic empowerment, civic governance, sports, wellness, tourism, arts, history and culture. She added that the youth-led event featured 18 different activities consisting of lectures and workshops, jobs fair, fire drill, live band concert, variety show, business mentoring, bloodletting, free massage and haircut services and sports and wellness clinics on yoga, frisbee, crossfit, zumba and weightlifting.

She said there were also missions and volunteer recruitment booths,

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development in Southeast Asia through various leadership programs, grants and exchanges. The YSEALI YOUnified Surigao activity is considered as one of the grandest celebrations which gathered around 1,500 participants, 100 youth volunteers, 150 performers and 40 agencies,” Mante underlined.

Mante explained that Jari na Kami aspired to revitalize youth volunteerism and ignite the zeal of the youth in carrying out their mission in the development of their communities and is made possible thru the Provincial Government of Surigao del Norte, in partnership with the YSEALI Program of the US Embassy and Events Factory, and in convergence with the academe, national line agencies, civic society organizations, the business sector and other private companies and individuals.

“This event was organized by the youth leaders and youth volunteers of Surigao and is the first of the series of

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youth development initiatives which will be implemented in the following months,“ remarked Mante. (SDNPEEDMO/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Photo Gallery BOY SCOUTS OF THE PHILIPPINES - AGUSAN COUNCIL

2016 COUNCIL-WIDE SCOUTS JAMBOREE Grand Opening Ceremony Jamboree Arena, BSP Campsite, Alubihid, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte 15 December 2016

REGIONAL NEWS

DOH Caraga strengthens #IwasPaputok campaign By: Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY – The Department of Health (DOH) Caraga during its media forum held Tuesday urges the public to opt for other strategies in lieu of the usual fireworks display, which cause injuries to the community during the celebration of Christmas and New Year.

According to DOH Caraga regional director Dr. Jose R. Llacuna, Jr., the ‘Oplan: Iwas Paputok’ is an annual campaign of the DOH against the use of firecrackers and fireworks to prevent injuries and deaths brought about by these during the holiday season. This year’s campaign is anchored on the theme, “Iwas Paputok, Fireworks display ang Patok! Makiisa sa Fireworks Display sa inyong lugar.”

Llacuna said the campaign will target children and parents, and that media partners will help contribute in the widest dissemination of the

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campaign because of their programs and expertise.

However, the DOH Caraga official also admitted that there are still individual who continues to use firecrackers, in that case, he advises if an injury due to firecrackers occurs, the wounds must be immediately washed with clean running water until visible dirt and gunpowder residue is gone and to seek medical attention for proper evaluation.

As per DOH national data, there was an 8 percent increase on the

REGIONAL NEWS

number of firecracker-related injury cases from 2014 to 2015 with 10-14 years old (33 percent) as the most affected group.

In Caraga region, firecracker injuries were remarkably high in 2015 with 81 cases compared to 2014 with only 18. In 2014, Surigao del Sur ranked the most number of firecracker injuries, while Agusan del Sur had 18 cases in 2015 and was highest in the tally.

(NCLM/GMCC/PIA-Caraga)

Butuan dad considers children as the most important sector By: Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY – Government officials and employees, and guests from the private sector heard and witnessed the State of the Children’s Report of mayor Ronnie Vicente Lagnada here on Tuesday.

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REGIONAL NEWS

City councilor Rema Burdeos, Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) Committee on Family, Women and Children Welfare/co-chair of Butuan City Council for the Welfare of Children (BCCWC) welcomed all the participants and guests, and emphasized that the city government gives due attention in the provision of programs and services to the children in the different barangays.

In his report, he underlined that the children are the most important sector in the society. “We want to give them what they deserve and allow them to exercise their rights so they will grow and live responsibly in the community,” he said.

Lagnada added that the government is doing its best efforts in giving due consideration to their needs and give them a brighter future through

programs and services that directly address their welfare.

The good mayor also cited that all sectors of the society especially the marginalized sectors should be included in all the activities, programs and services of the government to attain sustainable peace and development in the city.

He further stressed that the government is ensuring the continuous provision of health and nutrition programs to the children.

Meanwhile, mayor Lagnada with other local officials also awarded of the Top 3 Most Active Members of the Butuan City Council for the Welfare of Children (BCCWC), and officially launched the Search of 2016 Most Child-Friendly Barangays. (JPG/PIACaraga)

Butuan SPED Center reaps awards in RSPC 2016 By: Elysa Velle L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY – Campus journalists from the Butuan Special Education (SPED) Center of this city had garnered 15 several awards both in individual and group events during the recently concluded Regional Schools Press Conference (RSPC) 2016 held in San Francisco, Agusan del Sur.

The five-day campus journalism event gathered in one reputable competition the young talented pupils and students who have exceptional skills and competence in news/

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feature/sports writing, broadcasting, photojournalism, scriptwriting, editorial cartooning, collaborative desktop, copyreading and headline writing.

out Artist); Jessa Guiral (News Writer); Neyza Hope Indonto (Editorial Writer); Josephine Rosette Ramirez (Feature Writer); Klein Timothy Magallano (Editorial Cartooning); Jayzen Seth Ezriel Panaligan (Sports Writer); Shiloh Ruth Sasuman (Photojournalist).

All the winners, having gone through the division competitions, received medals during the awarding ceremonies.

Butuan City Division ranked 2nd Runner-up (Elementary level) in the overall ranking among the 12 competing divisions. (Elysa Velle L. Garcia, Butuan SPED Center)

REGIONAL NEWS

According to coach Flyn Gerald Labajo of Butuan SPED Center, for the individual events – English category, Marco Raphael Liceralde clinched the 6th place for Science and Health feature writing while Elysa Velle Garcia and Chris Adrielle Abrea returned home as 5th placer in copyreading and headline writing and 7th placer in news writing, respectively. He added that for the Filipino category, Cielo Marie Badar ranked 7th place in Science and Health feature writing.

In group contests, winners for the script writing and radio broadcastingEnglish category include J U Kirsten de Gracia (2nd place, Best Anchor); Athena Gail Ampoon (3rd place, Best in Infomercial); Hannah Theresa Dorico (4th place, Best in Technical Application); Team Award (5th Place, Best in News Script); and Marie Angela Grace Aala – Director (4th place, Best in Radio Broadcast).

There are also those who excelled in the Filipino category for group events, and they are Maria Cassandra Ericka Apostol (3rd place, Best Anchor); Joanna Margarette Barsana (4th place, Best in Technical Application); Team Award (5th place, Best in News Script); Team Award (6th place, Best in Infomercial); Ma. Nicole Damiar – Director ( 4th place, Best in Radio Broadcast).

Meanwhile, the collaborative and desktop publishing (Filipino) group bagged the 2nd place award. Among them who put forth the effort and ability are Sophia Marie Lazarte (Lay-

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Photo Gallery State of the Children’s Report Mayor Ronnie Vicente Lagnada LJ Mega Convention, Butuan City 13 December 2016

Regional Disaster Reduction & Management Council Caraga Region 4th Quarter Full Council Meeting 15 December 2016

By: Nida Grace P. Barcena

PROVINCIAL NEWS

DENR identifies CarCanMadCarlan as self-sustaining ‘model area’

TANDAG CITY - The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has identified the CarCanMadCarlan as one of the 29 priority areas in the country that to be transformed into an income generation sites and make those identified areas selfsustaining in a well-protected environment through the agency’s Area Management Program.

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

The word “CarCanMadCarLan” stands for Carrascal, Cantilan, Madrid, Carmen, and Lanuza, all were interconnected towns in northern part of this province.

According to DENR-PENRO Surigao del Sur information officer Johnny Natad, this cluster area plays a significant role in the lives of Surigaonons since marine resources along the marine and aquatic ecosystem are the primary source of food and income of the local people.

“These municipalities were connected across five watersheds proclaimed on March 23, 2009 as watershed forest reserve which are the Alamio, Buyaan, Carac-an, Panikian, and Sipangpang that drain to the Lanuza Bay,” Natad said.

Natad further said, these areas are also part of the proposed expansion of the Mt. Hilong-hilong Range Protected Landscape wherein the presence of mangkono (Xanthostemonverdugonianus) and insect bat (Hipposideroscoronatus) found endemic in the area.

Meanwhile, PENRO Surigao del Sur Planning Officer Glendel Adlawon said the project is the result of the series of multi-stakeholders consultation-workshop in CanCarMadCarlan last November,

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adding that it will be implemented in partnership with other government agencies who have the expertise and needed support.

The project is expected to facilitate promotion of both environmental and economic condition of CanCarMadCarlan, it was learned.

The DENR has directed the environmental offices to promote the agency’s developmental program in pursuing convergence among national government agencies and other relevant stakeholders through the Sustainable Development Framework to address poverty and to deliver social justice to marginalized communities throughout the country dubbed as “model communities.” (PENROSDS/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

By: Susil D. Ragas

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Cagdianao spearheads 7-day SAR training CAGDIANAO, Dinagat Islands – The local government unit of Cagdianao, this province through the Municipal Disaster and Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) conducts a 7-day Basic Search and Rescue (SAR) Training from October 10-16, 2016 held at the Cagdianao Cultral and Sports Center, here.

According to Public Information Officer Rodolfo L. Alipayo, the said training aims to enhance disaster preparedness and response capacity of the local responders for flooding, landslide, and water incidents and basic trauma/medical emergencies.

by seawater, there is a high risk of natural disasters, it is imperative that the local government and local responders be prepared for any disasters,” says Alipayo.

Municipal mayor Adolfo E. Longos and MDRRMO officer Esmeralda Abeo Sendiong led the event participated

“With the topographical location by selected local responders. (SDR/PIAof our municipality which is surrounded Dinagat Islands)

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

POPCOM Caraga displays model families By: May Ann O. Escobal

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte - Six families representing the different provinces and cities of Caraga displayed their family values and showcased their talents during the recent “Search for Planado at Talentadong Pamilyang Pilipino 2016” with the theme: “Matatag na Pamilya, Maunlad na Bukas.”

The family contestants joyfully showed off their group talents during the talent contest and parlor games.

They also proved how harmonious their family is despite of their situation in the community they live in.

The contestants are 4Ps beneficiaries and pre-selected on the basis of their maternal health and family planning practices. Couples of Surigao City, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Go bagged the 1st Place; Mr. and Mrs. Julito Espia of Surigao del Norte for the 2nd Place; and Mr. and Mrs. Ronie Yuson from Bayugan City for the 3rd Place.

Commission on Population (POPCOM) Caraga regional director Alexander A. Makinano highlighted the impact of a well-planned family size and responsible parenting as shown among the family contestants.

“Planning your family well is very important. Responsible parenting is a series of decisions of the parents to ensure the best possible life for

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themselves, for their children, and for the communities they belong to,” Makinano emphasized.

The Responsible Parenthood and Family Planning (RPFP) Component under the Philippine Population Management Program (PPMP) envisions an empowered population where parents, couples, and individuals can freely decide on and fully exercise their sexual and reproductive health and rights. Said program also aims to help couples achieve their desired spacing, timing and number of children according to their socioeconomic, emotional, and psychological capacity.

The event was spearheaded

by POPCOM Caraga in partnership with the Department of Health (DOH) Caraga, in close coordination with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga and the local government units of Surigao del Norte and Surigao City.

(POPCOM-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

By: Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte – The Consumer Protection and Advocacy Bureau (CPAB) under the Consumer Protection Group of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) released the suggested retail price (SRP) of basic necessities, prime commodities and noche buena products as of Nov. 4, 2016.

According to DTI Surigao del Norte provincial director Celestino L. Negapatan, the SRP is set for manufacturers to standardize prices among locations and guide in the major retail establishments in setting their prices particularly those products included in the categories mentioned.

Violence in Mindanao.

Negapatan said the release of the said SRPs also lifted the implementation of the 60-day price freeze. The price freeze that took effect last September 4, 2016 froze all basic necessities at the prevailing price in view of President Rodrigo Duterte’s Proclamation No. 55 declaring for a National State of Emergency on Account of Lawless

Consumers interested to know more about SRP and other consumer related concerns are encouraged to visit the DTI’s website at www.dti.gov. ph or visit their office located at the 2nd Floor, Simtoco Business Center, Burgos Street, this city or contact their telephone numbers (086)826-6129/8262373. (SDR/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

PROVINCIAL NEWS

DTI releases new SRP for consumers

“The said price freeze already lapsed on November 3, except on areas declared under state of calamity due to the effect of typhoons Karen and Lawin in Central and Northern Luzon,” said Negapatan.

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Photo Gallery 57th RLECC Meeting Police Regional Office 13 (Caraga) Butuan City 14 December 2016

89th Regional Development Council Meeting NEDA Caraga Bldg., J. Rosales Ave., Butuan City 14 December 2016

By: Sheamin Lae C. Dogmoc

BUTUAN CITY - The Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) Family Day annual celebration with the theme, “Pamilyang OFW: Matatag na Pamilya sa Panahon ng Pagbabago”, was embraced with excitement and vibe spearheaded by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administartion (OWWA) Caraga held at the Lope A. Asis Memorial Gymnasium, Bayugan City.

Notwithstanding the unfriendly weather, the presence of 2,656 participants, around 1,156 attendees more than the targeted 1,500, set a very festive atmosphere to the celebration.

To shoot up to the cheerful vibe all the more, each municipality and OFW Family Circle was called out to cheer their hearts out for their organization.

OWWA administrator Hans Leo Cacdac, in his written message delivered by Director Samuel Madrid,

PROVINCIAL NEWS

More than 2,000 Caraga OFWs, families join the 2016 OFW Family Day

emphasized how the event served as a manifestation of the government’s highest gratitude to the OFWs and their families. “Isa lamang itong pagpapatunay na oo, ang gobyernong ito ay may “pakialam” sa damdamin ng bawat pamilyang OFW at sa araw na ito isang malaking kasiyahan na makasama kayong lahat,” read Director Madrid.

One of the highlights of the gathering was the OFW Dance

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PROVINCIAL NEWS 20

Competition, where a total of six contestants coming from different OFW Family Circle competed for the title.

The contest brought excitement and entertainment to the audience as they displayed their talents in their creative costumes and unique choreography.

In the end, the ADKIN OFW and Dependents Association of Tago, Surigao del Sur brought home the prize and the title, with the United OFW and Dependents of Bislig City landing in second place and the United OFW and Dependents Association in Carmen bagging third.

A number of raffle draw prizes including cash prize of P5,000, three microwave ovens and three bicycles were also given away to the lucky winners. Electronic Items, sacks of rice and grocery items were also given away, along with the goodies brought by corporate partners. Adding more fun to the event especially the little children, parlor games were also initiated by LBC, one of the corporate partners and PhilHealth Caraga that gave away fun and prizes to the participants especially the youngsters.

While many activities were being

done, a simultaneous free pampering booth which included body massage, facial massage, and haircut were also provided to the participants who want to relax.

Government partners, Pag-IBIG and Philhealth were provided with booths where they introduced and offered their services to the OFWs. Corporate partners, Camella Homes Butuan, Ford Butuan, Hyundai-Butuan, Motortrade Bayugan, Tanduay Distillers, Inc., Filinvest, Insular Life Philippines, Sunlife Insurance, B-Meg and Caraga Association of Recruitment Agencies (CARA) also entertained clients in the area.

During his talk, OWWA Regional Director Samuel S. Madrid stressed out the importance of linkage and partnership with local government units in an even more efficient delivery of service to the clientele. He also extended his gratitude to all the PESO managers and municipal mayors and the OFWs themselves who responded to his invitation in this year’s OFW Family Day. (OWWA-Caraga/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Photo Gallery PPOC Meeting Agusan del Norte Peace and Order Council Meeting Provincial Governor’s Office, Butuan City 15 December 2016

PPOC TWG Meeting Agusan del Norte Provincial Peace & Order Council Technical Working Group Meeting DILG Provincial Office 14 December 2016

PROVINCIAL NEWS

AgNor holds reintegration activity for illegal drug surrenderers By: Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY – Some 600 illegal drug surrenderers of Santiago town in the province of Agusan del Norte are expected to receive a ‘Pamaskong Handog’ from the provincial government on December 20.

According to OIC provincial director Ellen Vee Chua of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Agusan del Norte, different national and local government offices will be providing services to the event. A medical and dental mission will also be conducted, it was learned.

“Santiago town was chosen as the pilot local government unit for the ‘Pamaskong Handog’ because of its high surrender target rate,” she said.

The event will encourage the surrenderers to fully cooperate with the programs of the government, Chua said.

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By reintegrating them to the society through the availment of the services during the event like medical and dental services, skills and livelihood trainings/orientations from the different line agencies and the provincial government of the Agusan del Norte will also help boost the spirits of these surrenderers, Chua added.

Chua, further said that the event would also remind and instill in the mind of the surrenderers that the present administration still looks after their welfare and aims to reintegrate them to the society. (NCLM/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

By: May Ann O. Escobal

PROVINCIAL NEWS

POPCOM Caraga launches ‘KATROPA on Hardcourt’

BUTUAN CITY – Kalalakihang Tumutugon sa Responsibilidad at Obligasyon sa Pamilya or KATROPA on Hardcourt was launched recently by the Commission on Population-Caraga in six different venues in Agusan del Norte and this city.

KATROPA on Hardcourt is an advocacy for men in another platform through an open commercial basketball tournament for known players and commercial teams in the region. It is also a contribution to emerging initiatives to mobilize men as partners in women empowerment and gender equality.

Director Alexander A. Makinano underlined the significance of this new advocacy for it increased male involvement advocating and championing maternal, neonatal

and child health and nutrition and responsible parenting. The official added that before the tournament started, KATROPA sessions on the involvement of men on responsible parenting and family planning were conducted.

POPCOM hopes that this new advocacy will be replicated throughout Caraga to intensify the campaign of male involvement in responsible parenthood and family planning.

(POPCOM-Caraga)

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HEALTH NEWS

Cutting down on salt By: Ma. Idelia G. Glorioso

Sodium is an essential mineral for life. It is found in the blood and in the fluid that surrounds cells. It maintains cellular environment and prevents cells from swelling or dehydrating. Sodium is also important for maintaining proper nerve and muscle cell function.

An overly high intake of sodium which is a component of salt, has been linked to high blood pressure particularly in susceptible individuals.

High blood pressure increases risk of heart disease, stroke and other diseases. Sodium affects the blood pressure in two ways. These are by favoring the retention of too much water in the blood and by causing the swelling of the innermost lining of the arteries which narrows the diameter of the blood vessel.

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Sodium retains fluid in the body. To pump the added fluid, the heart has to work harder. People with heart failure should not put this extra strain on their hearts.

It is estimated that many Filipinos eat more salt and sodium

than recommended. The Filipino diet contains about 2000 mg of sodium coming from sodium inherent in foods, particularly animal and vegetable foods as well as from salt added to food which is about 5g of salt. With the addition of soy sauce, patis, mono sodium glutamate (MSG) or vetsin and other salty condiments during cooking or seasonings at the table, or excessive intake of salty fish and highly salted fermented fish or sauces such as bagoong, the sodium intake increases drastically to about 6000 mg (about 15g of salt).

HEALTH NEWS

Limiting sodium — which is present in salt, seasonings, processed foods, bread, bakery products and other substances in foods you eat — is one of the most important things that people with hypertension can do.

The 2003 National Nutrition and Health Survey (NNHes) conducted by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute-Department of Science and Technology (FNRIDOST) has shown the prevalence of hypertension of 22.5% among Filipino adults. This means that 22 in every 100 Filipino adults are hypertensive. The survey also noted that at the age of 40 years, the blood pressure starts to rise.

Here are some tried-and-true ways for reducing sodium intake:

Limiting salt when you eat: Eat natural foods with little or no added salt.

Take the salt, patis, bagoong, soy sauce, catsup off the table.

Eat fresh fruits and vegetables

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HEALTH NEWS

and other low-sodium foods and chloride with small amounts instead of canned and processed of bicarbonate, magnesium, foods. calcium and other trace minerals.

To balance electrolytes in your

Eat fresh meats and fish body, drink plenty of water and instead of ham, bacon, tinapa, eat fruits high in potassium like dilis, daing, etc. banana and orange juice.

Limiting salt when you cook

Avoid any seasonings, including soy sauce, patis, bagoong, bouillon cubes, chili sauce, meat tenderizer, soy sauce, steak sauce, and worcestershire sauce.

Use fresh herbs, lemon juice and vinegar as seasonings in place of salt.

Drain and rinse canned foods before preparing them in order to remove some of the salt.

Limiting salt when you shop

Read food labels to check salt content (listed as “sodium”) . It is still important to read the label to see exactly how much salt it contains.

The less salt, the better! Start with what is in your cabinet right now so you can stop buying high-sodium foods such as processed/instant foods and snack chips.

The correct balance of electrolytes and water within the body cells is essential for life’s vital functions. The most important electrolytes are sodium, potassium

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For more information on food and nutrition, contact: Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, FNRI Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department of Science and Technology, General Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City, Tel./ Fax: 8372934, 8373164; e-mail: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph or at mar_v_c@yahoo.com; FNRI-DOST website: http//www.fnri@dost. gov.ph. (FNRI-DOST S&T Media Service/PIA-Caraga)

Photo Gallery Department of Health Caraga Monthly Media Forum 13 December 2016

Department of Health Caraga Regional Inter-Agency Committee on Environmental Health (RIACEH) Meeting 13 December 2016

MINDANAO NEWS

Biz groups pitch for EAGA projects, partnerships

PALAWAN, Philippines – In support to the development goals of the Brunei Darussalam Indonesia Malaysia the Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA), business groups from the sub-region meet to explore private sector-led projects designed to accelerate trade and increase investments among member countries.

Dubbed as the BIMP-EAGA Business Networking Session, the event serves as a venue for the business players from different sectors to build and strengthen linkages with their BIMP-EAGA counterparts. It also aims as pursue global opportunities for EAGA business players as one sub-

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regional business bloc through the BIMP-EAGA Business Council (BEBC).

The networking session is a side event to the BIMP-EAGA 25th Senior Officials and 20th Ministerial Meeting, which opened here on Sunday at the Princesa Garden Island Resort

“Our primary goal in conducting this event is to find ways in working together to create more economic opportunities among the private sector players within the sub-region particularly benefiting our micro, small and medium enterprises,” said Datuk Roselan Johar Mohamed, BEBC chairperson.

He added that the BEBC council will continue to support the five pillars of the BIMP-EAGA and pursue investment projects that prioritize the sub-region’s thrusts such as renewable energy, tourism, infrastructure, connectivity, and agribusiness, among others.

To date, some of the current projects initiated by the BEBC include the power link between Kudat, Sabah and Bulliluyan in Palawan, the expansion of seaweed farming and the implementation of best practices spearheaded by Malaysia, and the facilitation of agri-entrepreneurship graduates through a partnership with Sandakan Polytechnic and BEBC Sabah.

The networking session is also expected to come up with project proposals leading to partnerships that will further contribute to achieving the goals of the BIMP-EAGA Vision (BEV) 2025.

“There is no doubt that our private sector truly serves as EAGA’s engine of growth, and I am glad to witness their active participation as they once again converge for a networking session,” said MinDA Secretary and Philippine Signing Minister for BIMPEAGA Datu Abul Khayr Alonto.

MINDANAO NEWS

and Spa. It is being organized by the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) with support from the BEBC, the Palawan Economic Development Council, the Puerto Princesa Chamber of Commerce, the Provincial government of Palawan, and the Mindanao chambers of commerce.

He said the government sector will continue its collaborations with the private sector by providing the enabling environment for businesses to thrive and flourish in BIMP-EAGA.

“The continued partnership of the government and private sector in BIMP-EAGA throughout the years simply proves that economic development is a goal that is better achieved when we work together,” Alonto added.

BIMP-EAGA is a sub-regional cooperation intended to spur development in the sub-economies of its member countries by pursuing programs and projects through public and private partnerships. Mindanao and Palawan are the two focus areas of the Philippines in the sub-regional grouping. (MinDA)

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NATIONAL NEWS

SSS eyes signed joint resolution on the P2,000 pension increase before year-end QUEZON CITY - The Social Security System (SSS) expects the signing of the joint resolution from the House of Representatives and the Senate on the proposed pension increase before the Christmas break to pave the way for the release of the initial P1,000 benefit at the start of 2017.

Social Security Commission (SSC) Chair Dean Amado D. Valdez said that in order for pensioners to receive the additional P1,000 in time for January 2017, SSS needs the formal approval of the proposal before the year ends, since pensions are disbursed to banks the month prior to their scheduled release.

Dean Valdez explained that the joint resolution on the P2,000 pension increase would first have to be passed by the House of Representatives and the Senate, and then a Commission

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Resolution shall be sent to Malacañang for the formal approval of President Rodrigo R. Duterte, before SSS can implement it.

“SSS is also guided by the Department of Finance in ensuring that the implementation of the proposed pension increase will not drive the fund to the brink of bankruptcy.

We are wary of possible criticisms for our support for the pension increase, and we don’t want to be seen as irresponsible,” Dean Valdez said.

he credited for acknowledging the rationale behind balancing the need to grant higher pensions with preserving the long-term viability of SSS funds for the benefit of currently-paying members who are future SSS pensioners.

“The legislators have heeded the voice of the people who have been clamoring for the increase in SSS pensions. The same sentiment is shared

by President Duterte, who understands that the current SSS pension amounts are inadequate to meet the financial needs of the country’s retirees,” Dean Valdez said.

SSS has been consistent in providing better benefits to its members and pensioners while ensuring the sustainability of the fund. (SSS)

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The SSS chair said that Finance Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez III is keen on ensuring that SSS funds would last at least until 2039. SSS funds are currently projected to last until 2042, but granting the entire P2,000 pension increase in 2017 will shorten fund life to only until 2025.

“Based on our actuarial valuation of the proposed implementation of the initial P1,000 hike, SSS funds are projected to last until 2032. However, we are optimistic in adding more years to our fund life, making it last until 2050 by 2022 should SSS succeed in the innovations it plans to undertake to shore up its revenues,” Dean Valdez said.

Among the early measures targeted by the new SSS management to strengthen revenue intake include investing in infrastructure such as toll roads and railways and securing up to 25 percent of ownership in utility corporations. The agency has also tightened its monitoring of employers’ SSS compliance.

SSS is also considering possible joint ventures with developers to maximize gains from SSS assets such as its five-hectare property in Quezon City at the corner of EDSA and East Avenue, part of which can be converted to a high-rise building for residential and commercial use. Dean Valdez said that the East Avenue development will include a high-rise parking to help ease EDSA traffic.

He said that SSS continues to work closely with legislators, whom

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NATIONAL NEWS

Two days before Christmas, PWDs can start enjoying VAT-free purchases, other benefits under RA 10754

QUEZON CITY - Following the publication of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act 10754, also known as An Act Expanding the Benefits and Privileges of Persons With Disability (PWDs), on December 8 in two major national newspapers and its submission to the Office of the National Administrative Register, PWDs can start enjoying the expanded benefits and privileges that they are entitled to under the law on December 23, two days before Christmas.

The IRR of R.A. 10754, which was signed last December 1 by Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Judy M. Taguiwalo, Department of Health (DOH) Undersecretary Gerardo Bayugo, and National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) Director Carmen Zubiaga, grants PWD’s with exemption from Value Added Tax (VAT) on the purchase of certain goods and services from all establishments

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subject to VAT for their exclusive use, enjoyment, or availment. This is on top of the 20 percent discount they are already entitled to under Republic Act 9442, also known as An Act Amending R.A. No. 7277, Otherwise Known as the “Magna Carta for Disabled Persons, and for Other Purposes.”

The act covers restaurants; recreation centers, such as theaters, cinema houses, and concert halls; and

for special medical purposes, and making the benefits and privileges available to Filipinos who hold foreign passports but are registered as dual citizens and those who have reacquired their Filipino citizenship thru Republic Act No. 9225 or the Citizenship Retention and Re-acquisition Act of 2003.

For this purpose, the law requires all establishments to place signages of the benefits and privileges of persons with disability within their premises so PWDs will know what they are entitled to. It also declares that subsequent purchases made by the PWDs on the same day from the same establishment are still subject to VAT-exemption and 20 percent discount.

It is important to note, however, that double discounts are not allowed.

This means that if a person with disability is a senior citizen, who is also entitled to a 20% discount under his/her valid senior citizen identification card (ID), the PWD shall use either his/her Senior Citizen ID or PWD ID card to avail of the 20% discount.

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lodging establishments; such as inns, motorists hotels, and dormitories. It also applies to the purchase of medicines and foods for special medical purposes; medical and dental services, including laboratory fees and professional fees of attending doctors; domestic air, sea, and land transportation travel; and funeral and burial services.

Persons with disability will need to present a proof of entitlement to enjoy their expanded benefits and privileges.

This may be an identification card (ID) issued by the Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO) or the City/ Municipal Social Welfare Development Office (C/MSWDO) of the place where the PWD resides, the passport of the concerned person with apparent disability, or an ID issued by the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA).

Other salient features of the IRR include the reiteration of the rights of PWDs to social insurance (thru the Government Service Insurance System, Social Security System, PAGIBIG), educational assistance, special discounts in the purchase of basic necessities and prime commodities, and express lanes in all commercial and government establishments.

It also includes the provision of tax incentives for those caring for and living with persons with disabilities RA 10754 ensures that PWDs up to the fourth degree of affinity or enjoy the privileges of other vulnerable consanguinity. sectors, such as senior citizens, which shall enable them to live a fuller, more

Its unique features include the productive life. inclusion of certain vitamins, minerals and herbs in the definition of drug Those with inquiries or complaints or medicine as long as these are in may call the National Council on accordance with the Food and Drug Disability Affairs at 9516033 or 9522809. Administration’s cut off as well as foods (DSWD)

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Photo Gallery National Youth Commission (NYC) Usec. Cariza Seguerra’s courtesy call to Butuan City mayor Ronnie Vicente Lagnada 12 December 2016

RIACAT-VAWC-Caraga 2016 International Day Against Trafficking ITULOY ANG LABAN KONTRA HUMAN TRAFFICKING Robinsons Place, Butuan City 12 December 2016

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