Caraga InFocus –December 30, 2017-January 05, 2017

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[ Contents

30 December 2017-05 January 2018

Volume 1, No. 92

Caraga AEWs, farmers graduate from cacao production ASEAN NEWS

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ASEAN welcomes new Secretary-General for 20182022

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PIA-2 recognizes ASEAN advocates

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REGIONAL NEWS

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OWWA Caraga holds livelihood orientation to repatriated OFWs

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PIA-2 recognizes ASEAN advocates

PROVINCIAL NEWS

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HEALTH NEWS

Army leads IP summit in Agusan Norte DepEd-AgNor to receive P28.8-M worth of school repair, rehabilitation project

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DTI-AgSur briefs San Francisco biz owners on additional provisions for senior citizens Negosyo Center in Esperanza, Agusan del Sur opens Negosyo Center-Bunawan is now open for business

Dehydration can be deadly, drink enough water daily

MINDANAO NEWS

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Brighter prospects for Davao amid Martial Law TFBM pursues stakeholders’ participation in rehab plan

NATIONAL NEWS

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LGU Dinagat holds Pamaskong Handog for PWDs

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Malacañang defends TRAIN from critics PH hopeful Korea talks would lead to meaningful dialogue

Surigao Norte town opens new tourist attraction SurSur Lumads flee due to threat from armed men 24 SurSur school districts join DRR-CCA children’s festival

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News Briefs Due to the expected huge volume of applicants for new and renewal of business permits in Butuan City, the Business OneStop Shop (BOSS) processing will be open on the following dates and hours: - Jan. 3 to 19, 2018 - from 8:00 am to 8:00 p.m. (Open on Saturdays and Sunday); - Jan. 20, 2018 - from 8:00 am to 12:00 midnight (Last day of filing without penalty); and - Jan. 21 to 31, 2018 - from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm (excluding Saturdays and Sundays).

To avoid incurring penalties, we urge our businessmen to file their Business Permit early. (Butuan City PIO)

The Surigao Youth Convergence, thru the endorsement of DepEd Division of Surigao del Norte, is inviting the members of the debate clubs of junior and senior high schools and college students from private and public schools & colleges in Surigao City & nearby municipalities to join the Surigao Intervarsity Parliamentary Debate Championship. The elimination & final rounds for this year will be held on February 16-18 at Surigao City Cultural Center & SEC school.

Nine (9) Agusan del Sur Negosyo Center (NC) project staff have completed the Small Business Counseling Course (SBCC 101) organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Caraga Negosyo Center Coordinating Unit.

The Police Provincial Office of Surigao del Sur bared that there is no firecracker-related incident recorded in the entire province of Surigao del Sur during the Christmas season and new year’s celebration.

Cover Story

Caraga AEWs, farmers graduate from cacao production By: JPDEJampac

BUTUAN CITY – Twenty-six agricultural extension workers (AEWs) of Caraga region became full-pledged Cacao specialists after they successfully completed the season-long Training of Trainers (TOT) on Cacao Production and Processing with NC III, through the sponsorship of the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI)-Regional Training Center XIII.

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30 December, 2017- 05 January, 2018

were trained by ATI, will help organize farmers in order that they will also earn from Cacao),” Viduya said.

Another seasonlong trainee Dailinda A. Mollanida from the Department of Agriculture-Regional Field Unit XIII considered the training as her best moment in 2017.

She professed that the training helped increase her knowledge on cacao production, which was very important for her because she is the cacao focal person in her office.

Meanwhile, 153 farmers from the cities of Butuan and Cabadbaran completed the Farmers’ Field School (FFS) on cacao production. Graduation ceremony of both events was simultaneously held at the ATI-Caraga “Lisod kaayo nga ikaw focal person training complex. tapos wala kay hinanawan. Dakong tabang gyud ang training sa akoa labi

Domingo O. Viduya from the na tong mga exposure trips namo sa Office of the Provincial Agriculturist lain-laing mga lugar kay didto namo of Surigao del Sur and concurrently nahibal-an ang mga good practices sa the President of Class Buena Caraga Cacao production ug processing (It’s 2017, expressed his thanks to ATI for the hard when you’re a focal person and opportunity of being one of participants you don’t know anything. The training of the training. was really a great help, especially the exposure trips in different places

“Mapasalamaton ko kaayo sa because we [were able to] witness the ATI because we are fortunate enough best practices in cacao production to be part of the first batch of Cacao and processing),” said Mollanida. specialists sa Mindanao. Hinaut nga kita nga na-train sa ATI mutabang Moreover, Marlon P. Pajares of sa pag-organize para mukita pud LGU-Claver, Surigao del Sur challenged atong farmers pinaagi sa pagtanom his fellow AEWs and farmers to share what ug Cacao (I am very thankful to ATI they know about cacao production. because we were fortunate enough “Atong ipahibalo sa uban ang atong to be part of the first batch of cacao nakat-unan. Nahibalo ako nga adunay specialists in Mindanao. I hope we, who mga hagit sa pagtanom ug Cacao 30 December, 2017- 05 January, 2018

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who were given the opportunity to join the FFS. It was God who made these things happen. This is a blessing from Him which we should also share to others),�

Poculan remarked.

gikan sa produksiyon paingon na sa pag-market niini pero tungod sa pagabag sa ATI ug DA atong makab-ot ang kalampusan (We should share what we learned [from this training]. I know there are many challenges in growing cacao from production to marketing but with the support of ATI and DA we can attain success),� said Pajares.

The participants of the season-long training underwent four months of rigorous training on social technology, AgroEcosystem Analysis (AESA), FFS approach and concept, cacao cultural management, management of location-specific major pests and diseases, harvesting and post-harvest handling, post-harvest processing, agricultural marketing strategies, farm planning and budgeting, and managing agricultural risks and opportunities in changing climates and environment.

Lastly, Robert T. Poculan Jr., ATICaraga Center Director, reminded the participants that the knowledge they Besides lecture-discussions, gained from the training is a blessing the trainees also had workshop that needs to be shared to others. sessions, group output presentations, practicum, feed-backing

“Any difference that Christ makes field processing, method/result in your life is a story worth telling. Sa and micro-teaching, kadaghan nga AEWs sa tibuok Caraga demonstrations, kamo pa gyuy napilian. Sa kadaghang open forum, and field day. They were farmers sa Caraga ngano kamo pa deployed in select barangays in Butuan gyuy gitagaan ug oportunidad nga and Cabadbaran cities where they muapil sa FFS. Tungod kay Ginoo ana became trainers in the FFS. The farmers ang nagbuot sa tanan. Blessing kini who graduated along with them were nga kinanglan nga dili nato ihikaw sa their FFS students. Prior to the graduation uban (Any difference that Christ makes ceremony, the said AEWs and farmers in your life is a story worth telling. Of the joined a field day and technology many AEWs in the entire Caraga region, demonstration at the Cacao farm you were among the few chosen to of Rodolfo Perez located in Brgy. participate. Of the many farmers in Sumilihon, Butuan City. (JPDEJampac, Caraga, you were among the few ATI-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

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30 December, 2017- 05 January, 2018

ASEAN welcomes new SecretaryGeneral for 2018-2022

By: Joyce Ann L. Rocamora

MANILA - Dato Paduka Lim Jock Hoi, a top trade official and diplomat from Brunei Darussalam, has assumed office as the new Secretary-General of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on Monday.

Lim is the 14th ASEAN SecretaryGeneral succeeding SecretaryGeneral Le Luong Minh from Vietnam who completed his five-year term on Dec. 31, 2018.

His earlier positions also included heading the Trade Departments at the Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources and then the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, respectively.

The Secretary-General of ASEAN is

The Brunei diplomat’s appointed by the ASEAN Leaders for appointment was approved at the 31st a non-renewable term of five years, ASEAN Summit and Related Meetings selected from nationals of the ASEAN held in Manila last November 2017.

Member States based on alphabetical rotation.

Lim until recently was a Permanent Secretary at the Brunei Foreign Affairs The last ASEAN Secretary-General and Trade Ministry. from the Philippines was Rodolfo Severino Jr., who assumed the role

Among the principal duties he from January 2003 to December 2007. assumed was Brunei’s Chief Negotiator The next Filipino diplomat to serve as on the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) ASEAN Secretary-General would be in free trade talks.

2033. (PNA)

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30 December, 2017- 05 January, 2018

PIA-2 recognizes ASEAN advocates By: Oliver T. Baccay

TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan - The Philippine Information Agency (PIA) in the Cagayan Valley Region has recently recognized the efforts of its partner-agencies in advocating the thrusts and objectives of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

The PIA has assumed responsibility to lead the advocacy program during the first quarter of 2017 to educate the public on the importance and benefits of ASEAN to the economy and lives of the Filipino people.

Purita S. Licas, PIA regional director, said the year 2017 has been very fruitful and meaningful as it sealed partnership with various government 30 December, 2017- 05 January, 2018

agencies, civic action groups and the media in the year-round advocacy campaigns.

“We value your commitment and dedication for partnering with us and for sharing your expertise, time and effort which resulted to the success of our ASEAN advocacy activities regionwide,� Licas said during the awarding rites here.

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The awardees include the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) which served as resource speakers during the conduct of the multi-sectoral and campus fora while the Department of Education- Cauayan City Division’s significant support was also recognized.

Almost all media entities regionwide were recognized for rendering coverage and for airing different information materials on

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ASEAN.

Some local government units were also recognized to include the LGUs of Tuguegarao, Batanes, Cauayan City, Ilagan City, Nueva Vizcaya and Cabarroguis in Quirino province.

On the other hand, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) and SM Mall in Cauayan City have greatly contributed to the attainment of the advocacy’s objective for allowing the installation of ASEAN Information Kiosks in their facilities. (ALM/OTB/PIACagayan)

30 December, 2017- 05 January, 2018

Photo Gallery 121st Rizal Day Celebration Guingona Park, Butuan City 30 December 2017

REGIONAL NEWS

Regional News

OWWA Caraga holds livelihood orientation to repatriated OFWs BUTUAN CITY – The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) continuously develops programs available to OFWs who are faced with various misfortune overseas prompting them to go back to the Philippines earlier than what’s assigned on their contract.

Over 60 Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) applying for the Balik Pinas Balik Hanapbuhay Program (BPBH) from the different provinces of Caraga attended the Orientation and Financial Literacy Training at the OWWA Caraga Training Hall.

The said training was conducted

by OWWA Caraga Reintegration Program Coordinator Jean Mary Ronquillo. She oriented the participants regarding the program’s guidelines. She also imparted ideas on Financial Literacy and basic livelihood undertaking. Then she further discussed the composition and making of business proposal.

During the activity, displaced OFW participants shared their experiences abroad. One participant shared that she has been with her employer for about seven years and did not encounter maltreatments from them.

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However, because of her physical

incapacity to carry out her work, she agreed with her employer to preterminate her contract. She further added that this program is paving ways for her to start over again here in the country.

Overseas workers with medical cases and those displaced due to violence, political and economic conflicts prompting a pre-termination of their contracts are the eligible beneficiaries for this program. Overseas workers whose contract were successfully completed are not qualified for the program.

The program is a package of livelihood assistance intended to provide immediate relief to returning memberOFWs with cash assistance amounting to a maximum of P20,000.00 as start-up or additional capital for the livelihood project. The program can be availed only once by eligible beneficiaries within three years upon return to the country.

(RMSD, OWWA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga) 30 December, 2017- 05 January, 2018

REGIONAL NEWS

DENR 13 takes over management of clonal nursery from ERDB

By: Herson F. Gallego

BUTUAN CITY – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Caraga has taken over the management of the Macro-somatic Clonal Nursery Facilities at Sitio Bood, in Barangay Pinamanculan, Butuan City from the Ecosystem Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) in a simple turn-over ceremony held at the nursery compound on January 9.

The ERDB representative and head of the Research Cluster Center in Bislig City, Surigao del Sur Forester Conrado B. Marquez handed over the important documents, including responsibilities to the DENR Caraga assistant regional director for Technical Services Maritess M. Ocampo, in behalf of OIC-regional director Charlie E. Fabre.

Also present as witnesses were the DENR Caraga Chief of Planning and Management Division Antonieta Jurado and the Chief of the Conservation and Development Division (CDD) Nilda Ebron, the head of the clonal facility Rustum A. Aguilos and forester Rommel Arbolonio, who was expected to take over the supervision of the operation of the clonal facility.

The clonal nursery facility can produce 300,000 clonal seedlings at a given time. It has a bamboo development facility developed by the ERDS.

Meanwhile, Ocampo said the DENR shall continue to improve the facility despite its limited budget for the operation.

“We can put an additional budget for maintenance and improvement of the clonal nursery,” she said.

The Bood Clonal Facilities was established 18 years ago by DENR Caraga through the Ecosystem Research and Development Service and First District Representative Leovigildo Banaag.

The tree seedlings planted by the previous DENR Secretaries such as Bebeth Gozun, Lito Atienza and several members

In his remark, Marquez said the of the Society of Foresters who came to ERDB will continue to back up the new Butuan City are now full-grown trees. management staff of the facility even after the turn over until such time the DENR The city government of Butuan Caraga can fully handle the operation headed by former mayor Ferdinand on technology development.

Amante, Jr. through an approved Sanguniang Panglunsod (SP) resolution,

Marquez said the ERDB shall always has donated the 7,500 square-meters honor the commitment to support the land where the clonal nursery is situated.

DENR being a primary stakeholder.

(DENR-Caraga/PIA-Caraga) 30 December, 2017- 05 January, 2018

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

Provincial News

Agusan del Norte

Army leads IP summit in Agusan Norte

By: 2Lt Ashley Mae A. del Rosario

CABADBARAN CITY, Agusan del Norte – The 29th Infantry “Matatag” Battalion, Philippine Army conducted a three-day Youth Leadership Seminar (YLS) with 83 indigenous peoples (IPs) participants from the conflict affected areas of Barangays Canaway, Jaliobong, San Roque and Mahayahay, all of Kitcharao, this province held at the Multipurpose Building of Eco-park, Brgy. Crossing, Kitcharao.

The three-day program consisted of a series of activities that focused on personal development, cultural sensitivity and organizational development.

We need to empower the youth who will lead the new generation and give importance to the role of the IPs in the community,” said 29IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Glenn Joy U. Aynera.

“The IP YLS is all about inclusivity to The activity was attended by achieve the peace and development. Agusan del Norte Gov. Ma. Angelica

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30 December, 2017- 05 January, 2018

PROVINCIAL NEWS Rosedell Amante-Matba as the event’s guest of honor and speaker, together with Kitcharao Vice Mayor Jenry E. Montante, National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Provincial Officer Rosemarie P. Mordeno, Kitcharao incoming Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) Datu Ruben Anlagan, and 402nd Brigade Commander BGen. Franco Nemesio Gacal.

During the activity, the IP youth were challenged to make action plans for their barangays. It was then presented during the closing program to the invited officials and was subsequently approved by the

governor. The said action plan will be included on the next agenda of Agusan del Norte Oversight and Advisory Council (ADNOAC) for funding.

“The IP YLS is a significant factor for development that uses the approach of transformational leadership,” said Gacal.

“Leadership is based on values and principles that focuses on holistic individual to societal and cultural development. Let us help them find an opportunity to help themselves by developing the leaders within themselves,” he added. (CMO, PA/ PIA-Agusan del Norte)

DepEd-AgNor to receive P28.8-M worth of school repair, rehabilitation project By: Danilo S. Makiling

BUTUAN CITY - The Department of Education (DepEd) Agusan del Norte Division is set to receive a total amount of P28.8 million worth of school repair and rehabilitation project as part of the proposed budget of the Congress, amounting to P126.3 billion allocation for basic education facilities program.

30 December, 2017- 05 January, 2018

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

This will also be used for site painting works,� she added. validation and engineering overhead expenses, electrification of on-grid sites Meanwhile, identified schools and acquisition of school furniture. are as follows: Cervantina Elementary School, Cubi Cubi Elementary School,

DepEd targets the construction Aclan Elementary School, Camagong of almost 47,000 classrooms in 2018, Elementary School, Manapa I procurement of more than 81,000 Elementary School, Kabalalahan school sets and electrification of more Elementary School, San Vicente than 2,398 schools.

Elementary School, Bangonay Central Elementary School, Magsaysay

The DepEd Agusan del Norte Elementary School, RAM Elementary Division has already identified the School, Baleguian Elementary tentative list of 21 schools with 80 major School, Cuyago Elementary School, repairs from 19 different districts of said Kitcharao Central Elementary School, province.

Magallanes Central Elementary School, Santiago Central Elementary

In an interview, DepEd Agusan School, Lingayao Elementary School, del Norte Division Engineer Shelemiah Mat I CES, Ibuan Elementary School, C. Gata said that the project aims to Agyabao Elementary School, Bonifacio repair all old classrooms with major Elementary School, and Las Nieves repairs according to National School Central Elementary School.

Building Inventory (NSBI).

With this development, Gata said

“The repair includes common that this project will be of great help works such as roofing works, carpentry to the educational development of (doors, windows, and ceiling), the children, by providing them with electrical, masonry (partition walls and a conducive learning environment. plastering), concreting (flooring), and (DepEd-AgNor/PIA-Caraga)

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30 December, 2017- 05 January, 2018

Agusan del Sur

PROVINCIAL NEWS

DTI-AgSur briefs San Francisco biz owners on additional provisions for senior citizens PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Agusan del Sur (AdS) Provincial Office, together with the Office of Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) of San Francisco, Agusan del Sur met with the local business establishments selling basic necessities and prime commodities on the added provisions for senior citizens.

The briefing and dialogue centered on the provisions of Republic Act (RA) 10623 or the Act Amending Certain Provisions of RA 7581 (Price Act) which redefines the terms “basic necessities” and “prime commodities.”

In her presentation, Cerila Inson of DTI-AdS Consumer Protection Unit said that based on the Joint Department of Trade and Industry-Department of Agriculture-Department of Energy (DTI-DA-DOE) Administrative Order 30 December, 2017- 05 January, 2018

(AO) No. 17-02, there were products reclassified as basic necessities from prime commodities and some new products added in the list of both basic and prime goods.

Accordingly, as provided in the law, senior citizens who purchase products listed in the basic necessities and prime commodities can avail of a five percent discount. The total amount of said purchase, however, shall not

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PROVINCIAL NEWS exceed the amount of P1,300.00 per calendar week without carry-over of the unused amount. Such amount shall be spent on items for personal consumption within the week, with the amount to be spent on at least four kinds of items in the list of basic commodities.

Basic necessities include: all kinds and variants of rice, corn, all kinds of bread except pastries and cakes, fresh, dried and canned fish and other marine products (including frozen and various modes of packaging), fresh pork, beef and poultry meat, all kinds of fresh eggs (excluding quail eggs), potable waters in bottles and containers, fresh and processed milk (excluding milk labeled as food supplement), fresh vegetables including root crops, fresh fruits, locally manufactured instant noodles, coffee and coffee creamer, all kinds of sugar (excluding sweetener), all kinds of cooking oil, salt, powdered, liquid, bar laundry and detergent soap, firewood, charcoal, all of kinds of candles, household liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) not more than 11kgs. LPG content once every five months from LPG dealers and kerosene, not more than 2 liters per month.

construction nails, batteries (excluding cellphone and automotive batteries), electrical supplies and light bulbs and steel wires.

Inson added, that to be able to avail of the five percent special discount, senior citizens shall purchase from supermarkets, grocery stores, convenience and mini-convenience stores and shops but excluding stalls in food courts, food carts, food vendors and sari-sari store with a capitalization of less than P100,000.00, public and private wet markets, talipapa and cooperative stores.

Ma. Rogelia Noja, OSCA head, reminds the business establishments to comply with the provisions of the law to avoid sanctions. (DTI-Agusan del Sur/ PIA-Agusan del Sur)

The law lists prime commodities to include: flour, dried, processed and canned pork, beef and poultry meat, dairy products, onions and garlic, vinegar, patis and soy sauce, toilet/bath soap, fertilizer, pesticides, herbicides, poultry feeds and fishery feeds, veterinary products, paper and school supplies, nipa shingle, sawali, cement, clinker, GI sheets, hollow blocks, plywood, plyboard,

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30 December, 2017- 05 January, 2018

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Negosyo Center in Esperanza, Agusan del Sur opens PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur – The Negosyo Center (NC) in Esperanza town has opened to serve micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), whether existing or still being planned in the municipality.

Mayor Leonida Manpatilan of the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Esperanza in her welcome address during the blessing and opening ceremony shared that she initially thought that NCs were only for municipalities located along the highway.

program, the provision of Shared Service Facilities SSF) and the Negosyo Center. She expressed her hope that Esperanza will produce more and will be known for having unique products that DTI will help find markets for.

“In Esperanza, the legislative body also assures that we will support the programs of the executive, as we want to make our vision to become an agroindustrialized municipality a reality,” Vice Mayor Eric Rey Siohan highlighted in support of the Mayor’s statement.

She first articulated this sentiment when the Department of Trade and Industry-Agusan del Sur (DTI-AdS) visited her for the pilot implementation of Project Entrep (for bottom provinces) in her area, with the establishment of an NC as one of the project deliverables.

OIC-Provincial Director Brenda Corvera of DTI-AdS encouraged

Manpatilan thanked DTI for Esperanza LGU officials and other being a partner and donor of the stakeholders to support and pursue value municipality’s industry projects and adding activities from their agricultural programs like E-Kawayan, Kaong produce and other commodities Processing, coffee production, Yaman like kaong, coffee, vegetables, and Pinoy, the bottom-up budgeting (BuB) bamboo among others.

30 December, 2017- 05 January, 2018

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

Corvera added that Esperanza, being the pilot municipality of Project Entrep and Strike Team for Indigenous Peoples (IPs), has a clear goal of lowering the poverty incidence in the area. “Hopefully, this will be addressed by the joint efforts of DTI, LGUs and stakeholders of the NC; by linking enterprising groups or individuals to profitable and sustainable markets, in addition to other initiatives,” she said.

“The Chamber advocates better business climate in coordination with the LGUs and the national government agencies,” said Engr. Freddie C. Mero, President of Agusan del Sur Chamber of Commerce and Industry Foundation, Inc. (ADSCCIFI) in his closing statement.

He requested LGU Esperanza and DTI “not to stop giving their support as we move toward higher goals; to have products, registration of new businesses

and provision of entrepreneurial trainings and seminars.”

NC Esperanza is established under DTI-AdS’s Project Entrep. Under the project, NC mobile servicing and awareness sessions on DTI’s programs and services have been conducted in at least 21 of Esperanza’s 47 barangays.

DTI vows to cover and reach out to the rest of the barangays through the new NC.

The opening event was also attended by NC Regional Coordinator Irene Lavilla, representing DTI-Caraga Regional Director Brielgo Pagaran, Integrated Producers of Agusan del Sur President Alicia Paglinawan, peoples’ organization of Esparanza, members of the Sangguniang Bayan and the LGU’s chiefs. (DTI-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Negosyo Center-Bunawan is now open for business

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur – Existing and would-be micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Bunawan, Agusan del Sur now have a center to go to for business assistance.

This is after Negosyo Center (NC)- 31st in the Caraga Region.

Bunawan was launched on November 15, 2017.

On behalf of OIC-Provincial Director Brenda Corvera of the

The center is located at DJGR Department of Trade and Industry Building, Purok 2, San Teodoro, (DTI) Agusan del Sur (AdS), Jose Bunawan.

Baron, Supervising Trade and Industry Development Specialist gave his

NC-Bunawan is the 7th center opening statement to introduce the established in the province and the services of the center.

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30 December, 2017- 05 January, 2018

PROVINCIAL NEWS

He mentioned that the establishment of the center is mandated by Republic Act 10644, otherwise known as “The Go Negosyo Act,” which is authored by Senator Bam Aquino. The act pushed for the establishment of Negosyo Centers in all provinces, cities and municipalities.

family of 5 members.

Representing Mayor Edwin Elorde of Bunawan, Apollo Canoy, Executive Assistant IV expressed gratitude to the DTI for establishing a center in the municipality. He gave an assurance that the local government unit (LGU) of Bunawan will give its full support in operating the center. He also requested DTI to help Bunawan MSMEs find market for their produce.

NC Bunawan is now ready to receive applications for business name, barangay micro business enterprise (BMBE) registrations, do advisory services through one-on-one consultation and conduct seminars on entrepreneurship, skills training and product development enhancement. (DTI-Agusan del Sur/ PIA-Agusan del Sur)

She further urged everyone to take advantage of the services of the center.

Engr. Freddie Mero, President of Agusan del Sur Chamber of Commerce and Industry Foundation, Inc. (ADSCCIFI)

He added that the center is called on the attendees to help equipped with facilities and staff to promote the services of the Negosyo accommodate the requirements Center to encourage business. of the entrepreneurs and would-be entrepreneurs. He also encouraged the “In business, there is income, then people’s organizations to engage into employment and then follows the business and experience the services responsibility to the government to pay of the center. taxes,” he added.

DTI Caraga Regional NC Coordinator Irene Macheca relayed the message of DTI Caraga Regional Director Brielgo Pagaran that the 2015 Agusan del Sur poverty incidence data places it among the top 13 poorest provinces. Although the province is one of the largest in terms of area and population, almost 40 percent of the 700,653 people are poor.

She then encouraged everyone to increase their daily income and to have at least P350.00 per day for a 30 December, 2017- 05 January, 2018

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

Surigao del Norte

LGU Dinagat holds Pamaskong Handog for PWDs By: Susil D. Ragas

SAN JOSE, Dinagat Islands - The provincial government of Dinagat Islands thru the Social Welfare and Development Office formally launched its annual advocacy for the Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) dubbed as “PWD Welfare Program cum Pamaskong Handog Nan Probinsya para sa mga Taong may Kapansanan” held at Dinagat town.

Vice-Governor Benglen B. Ecleo extended his Christmas greetings to the participants. “Despite the chaos that we experienced around the nation and recent typhoon, let us still celebrate and feel the true spirit of the season,“ said Ecleo.

On the other hand, provincial administrator Gwendolyn Ecleo-Pols said that on the coming year (2018), a bigger social welfare activity will be conducted in terms of the delivery of basic need and services, such as food sufficiency and sustainability and education.

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The activity proper commenced with a lecture on Republic Act no.

7277 otherwise known as the “Magna Carta of Disabled Persons,” followed by the giving of bags with pre-packed assorted foods, biscuits, educational supplies, and assorted senior citizens items.

Aside from the gifts, the barangays of Escolta, Justiniana, and Magsaysay in Dinagat town each received an amount worth P200,000 and P300,000 for the different projects. (PIA-Dinagat Islands) 30 December, 2017- 05 January, 2018

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Surigao Norte town opens new tourist attraction By: John Glenn A. Platil

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, - In line with the advocacy of the provincial government of Surigao del Norte to put into action a fullblown infrastructural growth all across Siargao and mainland Surigao del Norte, Bacuag municipality mayor Mokee Cebedo led the recent opening of the Octopus Islet Adventure and hanging bridge.

In order to attract more jobs, increase business opportunities and improve the transportation systems of the place, Cebedo led the launching of what is dubbed as a fascinating ride of eight tentacles. This would mean a total make-over of Brgy. Bitaug.

Virgen del Rosario will also be built at the hilltop.

Part of its development is the establishment of zipline, great services of the bamboo cottages and restaurants.

By 2018, Cebedo envisioned to build a spectacular avatar with a swimming pool. This would achieve what the Guiness Book of World Records has in store, with a special touch of Little Baguio.

He seeks to fully expand the municipality and endeavors to put up the Metro Pension Hotel equipped with an amusement and entertainment facilities.

Cebedo desires to supervise the implementation and realization of these ambitious projects for the people to enjoy the progress in the locality.

With this upcoming development, the local official assures the public that the rates remain affordable for the general public. (PGO-SDN/PIA-Surigao In addition, a 7-storey statute of del Norte)

30 December, 2017- 05 January, 2018

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

Surigao del Sur

SurSur Lumads flee due to threat from armed men By: Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – Around 20 indigenous people (IP) families fled from their homes after the New People’s Army (NPA) rebels allegedly threatened the community of Sitio Lagangan, Brgy Carasan, Tago, Surigao del Sur on Monday, December 4, 2017.

According to 402nd Civil Military Operation Officer Captain Al Anthony Pueblas, the Lumads belonging to the Manobo tribe left their homes and sought shelter with their relatives in Brgy Caras-an, Tago town.

Pueblas said the rebels continue to disrespect and violate the rights of the Lumads to live peacefully.

Meanwhile, the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Tago headed by Mayor Rogelio M. Pimentel, together with the

One of the evacuees, a certain security forces and other concerned “Inday” (not her real name), said that agencies, convened and discussed the rebels had always been a threat to the situation to help the evacuees. their lives.

“The NPA had violated the

“Nagpaila sila nga sundalo sa Comprehensive Agreement on Respect kabus apan sukwahi kini sa ilahang for Human Rights and International gipakita sa amoa. Binulan kini silang Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) again. nagapangayo sa amo ug butaw. They [NPA] should respect the rights of Tanang nagpangidarun ug kinse our Lumad brothers and the CARHRIHL, anyos pataas matag bobong ila kining of which they were signatory. gipangayuan ug singko pesos kada The Philippine Army will take bulan. (They introduced themselves to us as soldiers but they did not act appropriate action on this. We will not like soldiers. They have been asking allow these NPAs to displace the normal for revolutionary tax from us monthly. lives of our Lumad brothers,” said 402nd They are asking above five pesos every Brigade Commander BGen. Franco month from Lumads who are 15 years Nemesio Gacal. (w/ a report from old and above),” Inday said.

402nd Brigade/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

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30 December, 2017- 05 January, 2018

PROVINCIAL NEWS

24 SurSur school districts join DRR-CCA children’s festival By: Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – A total of 24 school districts under the Department of Education (DepEd) Surigao del Sur division participated in the 1st Provincewide Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Change Adaptation (DRRCCA) Children’s Festival held on December 5 at the Villa Maria Luisa Hotel in Tandag City.

The DepEd-Surigao del Sur Division, in collaboration with the Provincial Government of Surigao del Sur thru the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), facilitated the activity. This year’s theme was “Strengthening DRR Preparedness thru Empowering Children.”

Agustin town tackled the “Children Participation on Policy and Legislations Making.”

Division DRR Focal Person Rufino Reyes said, “the participants are composed of five students per school district – three in secondary and two in elementary.”

Republic Act (RA) no. 10821 or the “Children’s Emergency Relief and Protection Act of 2016” was also discussed by Rufino on the first day.

During the activity, PDRRMO chief Abel de Guzman discussed the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction Management System (PDRRMS) to the participants while Dolores Bual of Sto. Niño Elementary School in San 30 December, 2017- 05 January, 2018

The participants were given enough time to ask some questions from the different government line agency representatives during the open forum.

Other activities were the “Larong Pinoy” as their team building activity, contests on Cartooning, Poster Making, Collage Making, Quiz Bee and Song and Yells (mother tongue), which focused on disaster preparedness. (PIASurigao del Sur)

25

Health News

Dehydration can be deadly, drink enough water daily By: Imelda Angeles-Agdeppa, Ph.D

BUTUAN CITY – Water is an essential nutrient as it is the main component of the human body distributed to every organ and cells.

It serves a key role in digestion, absorption and transportation of nutrients, formation and stability of cell structures. Water also facilitates removal of waste products and toxins, acts as solvent for biochemical reactions, regulates body temperature and lubricates cavities such as joints.

Without enough water, skin becomes dry and wrinkled.

recommended water requirement for adults under average conditions of energy expenditure and environmental exposure is 1 milliliter per kilocalorie (mL/ kcal) of energy expenditure.

Water volume should be

Based on the 2015 Philippine increased to 1.5 milliliter per kilocalorie Dietary Reference Intakes (PDRI), the (mL/kcal) to cover variations in activity

26

30 December, 2017- 05 January, 2018

level, sweating, and solute load. Thirst is normally a good indicator of the amount of extra water needed to meet the daily requirement, except for older persons whose thirst mechanism may be impaired.

Lack of water can lead to dehydration. Dehydration, according to World Health Organization (WHO) is defined as the condition that results from excessive loss of body water.

The main causes of water losses from the body are through urine and sweat. These losses vary widely depending on fluid consumption, diet, physical activity and temperature. The body also loses water through the lungs, breathing and through stools.

Mild to moderate dehydration is characterized by thirst, restless, or irritable behavior, normal to slightly sunken eyes and a sunken fontanelle in infants.

cucumber and seaweeds.

Water serves a number of essential functions to keep us all going. So, drink up to prevent dehydration.

For more information on food and nutrition, contact: Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department of Science and Technology, General Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City; telephone/ fax nos: 837-2934 or 8373164; direct line:839-1839; DOST trunk line: 837-2071-82 local 2296 or 2284; e-mail: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph or at mar_v_c@yahoo.com; FNRI-DOST website: http://www.fnri.dost.gov.ph.

You may also like their Facebook page at facebook.com/FNRI.DOST or follow their Twitter account at twitter. com/FNRI_DOST. ( FNRI-DOST S&T Media Service/PIA-Caraga)

Signs of severe dehydration include lethargy or unconsciousness, poor drinking or inability to drink, lack of urine output, cool moist extremities, low or undetectable blood pressure, and a rapid and feeble pulse.

Getting enough water everyday is important for one’s health. Most of the fluid needs are met through the water and beverages we drink.

However, we can also get some fluids through the foods that we eat, like water-rich fruits and vegetables which include watermelon, melon, oranges, singkamas, tomatoes, radish, 30 December, 2017- 05 January, 2018

27

MINDANAO NEWS

Mindanao News

Brighter prospects for Davao amid Martial Law By: Lilian Mellejor

DAVAO CITY – Except for the first few weeks after martial law was first declared in Mindanao due to negative impression, Davao Region’s trade and investments recovered even more robust until 2018.

“I think initially we thought this (martial law) would be detrimental to growth but because investors see that the President (Rodrigo Duterte) is serious in terms of bringing about lasting change, their interest remains bullish regarding Mindanao. In fact, more business delegations have expressed their interest in visiting Davao next year,” said Ronald Go, president of the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (DCCCII).

Mindanao as just a petty disturbance that could be taken care of with little money. They tried to use band aid fixes for wounds which were long infected,” Go said, emphasizing that the Philippines cannot move forward as a nation until these are handled with seriousness.

Go pointed out that other Asian nations became progressive once the elements which tried to sow division among them were dealt with

The DCCCII, which has over 300 decisively. businessmen and firms as members, has supported President Rodrigo Duterte’s “We need to band together to declaration of martial law to resolve quell any movement that seeks to old conflicts especially in Mindanao. divide us as a nation. If martial law is a means to that end then I think we all

“Our president is unlike those in need to be patient and let things take the past who perceived the threats in their course,” Go added.

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30 December, 2017- 05 January, 2018

MINDANAO NEWS

Go’s prospects for the region is confirmed by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) XI based on statistics as a good indicator that “it’s business as usual in Davao.”

DTI is bullish to overshoot targets at the end of the year. DTI XI regional director Ma. Belenda Ambi pointed out that peace and security is a strategy to develop industries.

She said that despite the President’s extended martial law from July to December, no significant change had been observed that caused the business climate to deteriorate.

While martial law had an impact on the tourism industry, Ambi said the sector quickly recovered few weeks after its declaration in May.

followed by Davao del Norte with P546.81 million and Compostela Valley province with P386.74 million.

Davao Region’s top ten Board of Investments (BOI)-registered companies as of the third quarter are San Miguel Foods in Davao del Sur; Communities Davao, Inc in Davao City; 8990 Housing Development Corporation in Davao City; Davao Corrugated Packaging Company Inc.; Agri-Tech Corporation in Davao del Sur; Prestige Homes and Realty Development Corporation in Davao City; Primeland Properties in Dvaao City; Filinvest Land in Davao City; Ahya Coco Organic Food Manufacturing Corporation in Davao City; and Agrotech Integrated Farms Inc. in Compostela Valley.

The whole year in 2015, Davao

In fact, Ambi said, hotels were Region has a total investments of P4.708 always fully-booked. “Our martial law billion and in 2016 at 10.266 billion. is different. There is no fear that the military will abuse,” she said.

DTI said that the three-year

There could be increase in the investment performance is P7.531 billion prices of commodities but these are still with 2015 as the base year. within the suggested price set by DTI, Ambi added.

There is 118 percent increase in investment in 2016 while 62 percent in Investments 2017, DTI reported.

In its preliminary annual report, DTI XI reported that investments in Davao region hit P7.62 billion as of the third quarter of the year with Davao City registering with the biggest total investments at P4.9 billion.

The top industries in terms of project cost are real estate projects; manufacturing, agriculture, forestry and fishing; and, electricity, gas, steam and airconditioning supply. In terms of employment are agriculture, forestry and fishing; real estate projects;

Davao del Sur’s registered and, electricity, gas, steam and investments is pegged at PhP1.78 billion airconditioning supply.

30 December, 2017- 05 January, 2018

29

MINDANAO NEWS Bullish

DTI-Davao Oriental is also looking forward to the P24 billion industrial park

Ambi is bullish on local and project in Maputi, Banaybanay. foreign investments next year. She said investments would continue to increase Sec. Datu Hj. Abul Khayr considering the strong promotion and Alonto, chairman of the Mindanao marketing of Davao.

Development Authority (MinDA), said the swift action of the President to end

Romeo Castanaga, provincial terrorism in Mindanao had once and director of DTI-Davao del Norte, said he for all yielded positive results. looks forward to two industrial estates in Davao del Norte, the launching of the He said Mindanao continues P1 billion township project, and another to receive investment interests from project by Anflocor in partnership with various local and foreign investors.

UPLB for commercial and institutional project under PEZA.

Alonto bared that major infrastructure projects are being

For Compostela Valley, Lucky approved and rolled out as well.

Siegfred Ballegue, said Torre Lorenzo is set to open to the public its project in “Rest assured that there is no Kopiat, Mabini town. letting up in our pursuit for economic progress and sustainable peace in the

The beach club project is already island-region, even in the midst of a 80 percent complete. There is also a martial law declaration,� Alonto said.

184-room hotel.

(PNA)

30

30 December, 2017- 05 January, 2018

MINDANAO NEWS

TFBM pursues stakeholders’ participation in rehab plan By: Josh Angelo Bata

MARAWI CITY – The Task Force Bangon Marawi (TFBM) conducted a consultative meeting with the Ulamas at the Marawi municipal hall on December 28, in an effort to continuously provide platform for stakeholders’ participation in the rehabilitation plan of the war-torn city.

Around a hundred Ulamas gathered at the conference room as passionate exchanges of ideas and concerns began just before midafternoon.

“As government agencies are now ‘all-hands-on-deck,’ signaling the initial stages of rehabilitation and recovery of Marawi City, especially those in the 24 most affected barangays, dialogues or consultative meetings were some of the efforts of policy makers and government officials to be inclusive and to provide the table for stakeholders and community leaders to air their concerns on the upcoming rehabilitation plan of the national government,” the TFBM chair said.

The consultative meeting was an offshoot of the stakeholders’ meeting with different sectors on Nov. 25 in Marawi and the dialogue with President Rodrigo “Roa” Duterte and TFBM Chair and Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC) Chief Eduardo del Rosario on December 6 in Malacanang.

Also present in the meeting were TFBM Field Office Manager Assistant

Del Rosario disclosed that the Secretary Felix Castro, Jr., Marawi rehabilitation is expected to be City Mayor Majul Gandamra, Ulama completed in December 2021 if it will Leaders Conference Chairman start in the second quarter of 2018.

Abdulmalik Lagundab, and Marawi City Administrator Sultan Camid

It was learned that during the Gandamra, Sr. December 6 meeting, Del Rosario assured that all stakeholders will be In the same event, Del Rosario consulted in every step of rehabilitation revealed that another round of through the conduct of dialogues to dialogue was set on the third week of ensure that the master development January 2018, with the Sultans of the plan of the city is culturally sensitive. city. (JAEB / PIA-TFBM-ICCC) 30 December, 2017- 05 January, 2018

31

NATIONAL NEWS

National News

Malacañang defends TRAIN from critics By: Jelly Musico

MANILA - Contrary to the claim of IBON Foundation, Malacañang on Thursday said both the rich and the poor would benefit from the newlyenacted Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Act.

Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said the proceeds of TRAIN would be spent for the government’s massive Build, Build, Build infrastructure program.

“The build, build, build program will not only provide us with better infrastructure, it will also stimulate the economy, create more jobs and therefore create more income for everyone,” Roque said in a televised press conference in Davao City.

claiming it will trigger price hikes.

While adjusting excise taxes would raise prices of some commodities, Roque assured that the increase would be minimal “and it will be temporary.”

He said based on estimates by the Department of Finance, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, and National Economic and Development Authority, there would only be around 0.4-0.7 percentage point increase in inflation during the first year of

Recently, IBON Foundation implementation with the impact executive director Sonny Africa tapering off over time. reportedly described the TRAIN as a scourge rather than a gift to the people, “Rather than look at the short-

32

30 December, 2017- 05 January, 2018

NATIONAL NEWS term minimal price increases, we must view the persistent poverty and high inequality which results from the systemic inability of the poor to participate in society actively and productively,” Roque said in a press statement.

people.

“The poor are denied opportunities and are routinely excluded from access to adequate social services and infrastructure that boosts productivity,” he added.

“These investments would increase the productive capacity of the economy, thereby creating more and better jobs and result in high-quality education, better health services, and adequate social protection so that everyone, especially the poor, is accorded with equal economic opportunities towards prosperity,” he said.

Aside from providing higher takehome pay to wage earners, Roque said TRAIN would also mean more jobs, better infrastructure, and more efficient delivery of services from massive investment in infrastructure and on

Roque said the government would even give at least PHP200 per month by way of conditional cash transfer to the poorest of the poor to mitigate the impact of price hikes on some commodities. (PNA)

PH hopeful Korea talks would lead to meaningful dialogue

30 December, 2017- 05 January, 2018

33

NATIONAL NEWS MANILA - The Philippines today said the decision of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) to resume talks with South Korea is the first step towards what it hopes would be the start of meaningful dialogue that would lead to peace and stability in the Korean Peninsula.

“The Philippines is hoping that the decision of the DPRK to resume official talks with the Republic of Korea would lead to meaningful progress in efforts to achieve not only the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula but also peace and stability in the Korean Peninsula and the rest of the Asia-Pacific,” Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter S. Cayetano said in a statement.

This development came a day after both sides engaged in telephone calls following North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s expression of hope during his annual New Year’s day address that a North Korean delegation participate in the February Winter Games in Pyeongchang, South Korea.

Secretary Cayetano also thanked members of the international community that have contributed to the efforts to bring both parties back to the negotiating table, including the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and China.

Secretary Cayetano issued the statement hours after South Korea’s Unification Ministry announced Pyongyang’s acceptance of Seoul’s proposal to hold official talks on 9 January 2018.

The Secretary also said the decision of Washington and Seoul

“The Philippines has constantly to delay scheduled annual military advocated for a peaceful and exercises also contributed to the diplomatic resolution to the situation lowering of tensions that helped open in the Korean Peninsula, and we the door for the resumption of official encourage both countries to continue talks between both countries. taking concrete efforts towards this end,” the Secretary said.

The Philippines has consistently spoken out in the strongest possible

The Secretary said Manila is also terms against the nuclear weapons and ready to play a role in bringing about ballistic missile tests and development peace and stability in the Korean of North Korea. It has consistently Peninsula as this would usher in progress underscored the need for North Korea and prosperity that would also benefit to abide by prevailing UN Security the rest of the region.

Council Resolutions. (DFA)

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30 December, 2017- 05 January, 2018

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