Caraga InFocus – January 06-12, 2017

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[ Contents 06-12 January 2018

Volume 1, No. 93

Magtangale Central School champs in Gawad Siklab ASEAN NEWS

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Palace confirms PRRD’s attendance in India-ASEAN Summit PH pushes for ASEAN collaboration in promoting agri cooperatives

REGIONAL NEWS

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Drone operation training up for PIA Caraga personnel

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Japanese investors seek DENR policy on Bio Mass Energy

PROVINCIAL NEWS

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27 local jam producers learn good manufacturing practices, food safety

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HEALTH NEWS

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DTI joins AgSur stakeholders in business continuity management workshop DTI-AgSur kicks-off 5-day Caraga Manobo dolls making DTI Surigao Norte releases 1st SRP for 2018 LGU-Surigao Norte hosts employees’ fellowship day

21 Food tips for the home during disaster

MINDANAO NEWS

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Davao-based telco to connect Mindanao poor areas to the world TESDA training for Marawi IDPs, building hopes for a better tomorrow

NATIONAL NEWS

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2nd tax reform package should fund teachers’ pay hike: Duterte Comelec to conduct hearings on barangay, SK polls in Mindanao

Dinagat Islands’ crime incidents drop by 46% Fishermen rescue 3 Aussies in Siargao Island Cabadbaran regulates wearing of helmet

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News Briefs A team of inspectors from the Department of Energy’s Oil Industry Management Bureau (OIMB) has been deployed to randomly inspect the inventory of gasoline stations and depots for proper oil excise tax implementation. The inspectors will verify if the excise tax under the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Act is actually applied on inventories beyond those existing as of December 31, 2017.

Standing among the 16 honorees in the country and representing the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Caraga is their very own DTI-Agusan del Sur Trade and Industry Development Specialist Reonel Aninon.

The Social Security System (SSS) refutes news reports that it already increased its member contribution rate effective January this year. SSS said its current rate remains at 11 percent and no changes have been made.

A team of inspectors from the Department of Energy’s Oil Industry Management Bureau (OIMB) has been deployed to randomly inspect the inventory of gasoline stations and depots for proper oil excise tax implementation. The inspectors will verify if the excise tax under the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Act is actually applied on inventories beyond those existing as of December 31, 2017.

Cover Story

Magtangale Central Sc Gawad Siklab By: JGAPlatil

SURIGAO CITY – The Magtangale Central Elementary School in Barangay Magtangale, San Francisco, Surigao del Norte was recognized as the overall champion during the National Search for Gawad Siklab. The Best Youth Leadership Implementer Award was also earned by the same recipient school.

Surigao del Norte Schools Division Superintendent Nelia Lomocso thanked the provincial government through Gov. Sol Matugas for the untiring support that reaped an overwhelming triumph.

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School was also proclaimed as the Outstanding Supreme Pupil Government in the entire country in which Wilfredo Cante and Jamel Parale happily obtained the accolade.

Matugas expressed her praises Magtangale Central Elementary and gratitude to the champion school, 06-12 January, 2018

chool champs in which garnered national distinction in terms of academic excellence aligned with the Health, Education and Environment, Agriculture and Aquaculture, Livelihood and Tourism and Social Welfare and Spiritual Renewal programs (HEALS) Plus Development Roadmap.

It can be recalled that Socorro Central Elementary School and Atoyay National High School also championed the 2017 National Brigada Eskwela Best Implementing School. The said award was also obtained on December 15,

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2017 at the City Coliseum of Palawan.

These achievements were the results of capacitating the students with the knowledge and skills coupled with the right character of the pupils and students. The Education Caravan was also instrumental in the distribution of school bags filled with school supplies, big books, health items, physical hygiene materials and grooming kits.

There’s also the prioritization of school building constructions, library hubs and speech laboratories. (PGO-SDN/PIASurigao del Norte)

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Palace confirms PRRD’s attendance in India-ASEAN Summit By: Jelly Musico

MANILA - Malacanang on Monday confirmed that President Rodrigo Duterte will attend the India-Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Commemorative Summit slated from Jan. 24 to 26 in New Delhi, India.

“I would like to confirm that the President will attend India-ASEAN Summit,” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said during a Palace press briefing.

Summit in Manila upon the invitation of President Duterte.

“He (Duterte) placed great importance to our relationship with India which is considered an emerging

Roque said President Duterte’s economy,” Roque said. participation was the result of his bilateral meeting with Indian Prime He said Duterte had also Minister Narendra Modi at the sidelines considered a personal appeal of Indian of the 31st ASEAN Summit held in Manila ambassador to the Philippines Jaideep last year.

Mazumdar.

Modi attended the 15th India- Mazumdar said the Philippines ASEAN Summit and the 12th East Asia was the only country that was not 06-12 January, 2018

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represented by a head of state during international trade meet in which India the 2012 India-ASEAN Summit held in holds a dialogue with the 10 ASEAN India. nations to celebrate New Delhi’s diplomatic relations with region.

“That’s why he has confirmed his attendance,” Roque told the media.

Other ASEAN member states are Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Laos,

The India-ASEAN Commemorative Cambodia, Brunei, Singapore, Vietnam Summit is the first ASEAN Summit under and Myanmar. the chairmanship of Singapore which, Roque said, was very supportive of the According to media reports, trade Philippines’ ASEAN chairmanship last between India and ASEAN reached year.

USD71 billion in 2016-17, comprising 10.85 percent of India’s total trade with

The summit will be the first foreign the world. (PNA) trip of President Duterte this year. It is an

PH pushes for ASEAN collaboration in promoting agri cooperatives By: Leslie Gatpolintan

MANILA - The Philippines on Tuesday called for increased collaboration with other member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in promoting agricultural cooperatives deemed important for poverty reduction in the region.

Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) Chairman Orlando Ravanera made the call as the country hosts the 7th ASEAN Cooperative Business Forum to provide opportunity for learning exchange and cooperation towards enhancing ASEAN economic collaboration through agricultural

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cooperatives.

“There is a remarkable economic growth in this part of the world, in Asia, as growing region. (But) how can you reconcile the reality that in Asia, 560 million are below the poverty line.

Along that line, you know that the great 06-12 January, 2018

equalizer is cooperativism,” he said in a press briefing.

Ravanera cited as an example the Philippines which is producing the number one coffee in the world, but remains a top importer of coffee.

He said cooperatives are now following value chain in producing various agricultural products.

Data indicated there are now some 26,600 cooperatives in the Philippines with some 14 million members.

Esther Penunia, Secretary General of the Asian Farmers Association (AFA), noted that aside from just providing sources of funds for growing and harvesting crops, cooperatives are also assisting the farmers in packaging their produce and bring these to mainstream markets.

“They can’t avail (this assistance) if they are not cooperative. (For) existing (cooperatives), we can keep on supporting them. In terms of access to credit, they serve as our conduits,” he added.

Meanwhile, around 200 delegates from ASEAN members and other countries are expected to participate in the 7th ACBF slated from January 16 to 18 at the Pan Pacific Hotel in Malate, Manila.

“Because they are members of cooperatives, at the end of the day, after (undertaking) the value chain, the incomes they achieved are returned to them through patronage refunds, dividends. They can feel they really Hosted by the CDA, this year’s own the business,” she said.

ACBF will focus in selected commodities –coffee, cacao, coconut, banana, rice

For his part, Department of and dairy.

Agriculture (DA) Undersecretary Ariel Cayanan urged farmers to form Producers, marketers, distributors cooperatives. and clients will be converged and synergized to collaborate and integrate

Cayanan said the department their efforts towards the goal of provides assistance, such as storage strengthening an inclusive value-chain and drying facilities and warehouses, using cooperatives as mechanism and to organized groups or cooperatives. medium. (PNA) 06-12 January, 2018

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REGIONAL NEWS

Regional News

Drone operation training up for PIA Caraga personnel

By: Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY – As part of their capability enhancement, the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga personnel are set to hold a training here on drone operation on January 16, 2017.

As early as the start of the year 2018, PIA Caraga headed by Regional Director Abner Caga, is eager to develop new strategies on how to better deliver quality services to its clientele, and letting its personnel avail of the various communication trainings is just one part.

go places and capture different angles to tell different stories to the public.

“Drones can capture shots to highlight scenic views and landscaping of the property and other events,”

“There is always a room for us to Caga said. enhance our skills, capabilities and He also added that during make use of technology, equipment, so we could be more substantive in doing disaster operations, drones naturally our agency’s mandate,” underlined complement the traditional gathering of information by helping to ensure that Caga. operations can be conducted safer,

“This drone training would help us faster, and more efficiently. become professional drone operator, “When a disaster occurs, drones as we will be equipped with best of knowledge from our invited trainers can help provide my team with better who have been in the field for years,” situational awareness,” Caga said. he added.

With this development, the

Caga also stressed that using agency has already requested the drone during coverages of events will purchase of a high-quality drone for be easier and more concrete, as it can regional office’s use. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

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REGIONAL NEWS

Japanese investors seek DENR policy on Bio Mass Energy By: Herson F. Gallego

BUTUAN CITY – Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Caraga officer-in-charge (OIC) regional director Charlie E. Fabre met with a group of Japanese consultants from the CHODAI Company Ltd. on January 10.

The group called on him to seek DENR policy guidelines about a proposed project of the city government of Butuan to put up a 2-Mega-Watt (MW) Bio Mass Energy Project.

approved by President Rodrigo R. Duterte.

The group headed by Masyaki Oura was composed of Odette M. Duban; Deok Soo Lee, Yusuke Fukimura, coordinator of Busineness Development Section; Jun Kaisuka, Social Environment Division; and Aya Asai, Chief Engineer of the Social Environment Division. The group was particular about pollution including noise pollution.

The consultants were accompanied by Reynante B. Desiata, Executive Assistant of city mayor Ronievic Lagnada who informed the DENR top official that the bio mass energy project is one of the 12 major projects of the city government lined up under the Integrated Regional The details of the bio mass project Economic Development in Caraga, shall be the result of the feasibility 06-12 January, 2018

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REGIONAL NEWS

study to be done by the Chodai Co. Ltd consultants and services and its operation is expected in 2020. The City Government wants to develop a sustainable power supply from rice husks, coconut husk and other materials from waste to produce a two-megawatt power to augment the power requirement in the city.

Fabre lauded Lagnada’s vision to transform Butuan into a mega city in the next five years. He said that waste management is an important component in economic development, which the city government has considered to prioritize.

He likewise announced the DENR is working on the final preparation of constructing a modern sanitary landfill in Siargao in the wake of the booming tourism industry in that area, which is considered the Surfing Capital of the Philippines. He said DENR Secretary Roy Cimatu was able to secure the help

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of a donor country which will finance the construction of the state-of-the- art dumpsite.

The other major projects approved by President Duterte being implemented in Butuan City are the Asiga River Hydro Power, which is under construction and will be operational in 2018; Taguibo River Hydro Power which is scheduled to begin operations in 2019; Wawa River Hydro Power Plant to begin operations in 2020, Wind Power plant project to begin operation in 2022, and the Development of an industrial park in Taguibo, Butuan City

The other on-going projects in the city and in Nasipit, Agusan del Norte are the Bulk Water Supply project, which began operations in 2016; Eel Farming and Processing plant, Rice farming and milling project, Taguibo, Masao, Nasipit Industrial Project and the Masao and Nasipit Port expansion project. (DENRCaraga/PIA-Caraga) 06-12 January, 2018

Provincial News

Agusan del Sur

27 local jam producers learn good manufacturing practices, food safety PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur – Twenty-seven (27) members of the Indigenous Peoples Local Researchers in Agusan Marsh and Sectoral Association (IPLoRAMSecA) underwent a training on Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and Food Safety and Handling held at Poblacion, Loreto, this province.

Dinah Lyra Pantaleon, who is a Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship (PCE)-accredited mentor and a member of #AdSNegosyoCenters, facilitated the training.

“IP-LoRAMSecA is currently producing jam from Libas and Katmun using native fruits from Agusan Marsh,” she said.

The activity was part of the product development interventions under the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Agusan del Sur’s Strike 06-12 January, 2018

Team for IPs program, to prepare the products of our Lumad brothers for bigger markets.

In behalf of IP-LoRAMSecA, Marilyn Trasmil, president of the association, expressed her gratitude for the activity. She said the seminar reminded and taught them the importance of making sure that their product is clean and that the jam from Katmun and Libas were properly processed. (DTI-Agusan del Sur/PIAAgusan del Sur)

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

DTI joins AgSur stakeholders in business continuity management workshop PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur – To acquire awareness and understanding on business continuity management, the staff of the Department of Trade and Industry-Agusan del Sur (DTI-AdS) joined the two-day training course on Business Continuity Management for Small Medium Enterprises (SMEs) held at Pagkain Ng Bayan, Bayugan City, this province.

The activity was aimed to equip the participants in understanding concepts, practices, requirements, and the process in developing Business Continuity Plans (BCP), as well as understanding the mechanisms needed to ensure continual improvement of the SMEs.

Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF) based in Manila facilitated the training.

The activity was organized by the Provincial Government of Agusan del Sur through the Provincial Economic

The participants were expected and Enterprise Development Office to share what they have learned to the (PEEDO), in coordination with DTI-AdS. SMEs in the province in order to help them prepare and become resilient It was also attended by the in the event of calamities or abnormal staff from the Provincial Disaster situations. The lessons provided were Risk Reduction Management Office expected to help ensure the continuity (PDRRMO), Agusan del Sur Economic of services and the recovery of losses Business Assistance Center (ASERBAC), after a disaster.

PEEDO and Bayugan City Economic

and Enterprise Development Office.

Florian Rhiza Nery and Nathania (DTI-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Vida Abigail Guiang of the Philippines Sur)

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

DTI-AgSur kicks-off 5-day Caraga Manobo dolls making PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Agusan del Sur, through its Kapatid Mentor ME (KMME) business improvement plan and in partnership with the indigenous people (IP) communities under the Strike Team for IPs program, conducted a five-day training on Caraga Manobo DollsMaking.

Virginia Indias, Batch 2 KMME Indias’ Caraga Manobo dolls mentee, together with her husband have become a “go-to” souvenir item Venchito Indias, facilitated the training. or a top pick as token for guests or tourists.

Twenty four (24) IPs from San Martin Farmers Multi-purpose Cooperative This production training will (SAFAMCO) of Prosperidad, Sibagat, hopefully ensure that more orders can Esparanza and the Tugpan Tribal be served in the future and more IP Farmers Multi-purpose Cooperative communities will be engaged in the (TUTRIFAPCO) of Veruela participated production and supply chain. (DTIin the said activity.

Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

They were also joined by some Grade 9 and 10 students from Prosperidad National High School.

Topics discussed include carving, accessory-making and the processes to produce both miniature and larger sized dolls of up to 16 inches, among others.

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

Surigao del Norte

DTI Surigao Norte releases 1st SRP for 2018

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Consumer Protection and Advocacy Bureau (CPAB) under the Consumer Protection Group released the Suggested Retail Price (SRP) guides for basic necessities and prime commodities as of January 1. 2018.

The Suggested Retail Price (SRP) conducted monthly at major retail is the selling price suggested by the establishments is one way of ensuring manufacturer of a product. that retailers of products listed in SRPs shall follow the guide in their pricing.

The intention of the SRP is to Hence, they are provided with updated ensure that prices of basic necessities SRPs regularly. and prime commodities will be sold at affordable price levels.

Consumers interested to know more about SRP’s and other consumer

Major retail establishments are related concerns are encouraged to directed to set their selling prices within visit the DTI Office located at the 2nd SRP, especially with the implementation Floor, Simtoco Business Center, Burgos of the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Street, Surigao City with telephone Inclusion (TRAIN) Law. numbers (086) 826-6129/826-2373 or log on to DTI’s website at www.dti.gov.ph.

The DTI price monitoring activity (DTI-SDN/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

LGU-Surigao Norte hosts employees’ fellowship day By: JGAPlatil

SURIGAO CITY – The provincial government of Surigao del Norte led

by Gov. Sol Matugas held a fellowship activity with the public servants of the Provincial Capitol for a fresh start of the year 2018.

In her remarks, Matugas recognized the invaluable efforts and extraordinary contributions of everyone who worked in the realization and implementation of lined-up programs and projects in the entire province.

the pipeline.

She also said that infrastructure and economic programs will be fully implemented by her administration.

The construction of a giant processing plant, which can generate around 1,000 jobs was also announced.

“Thank you for your never-failing Colorful renditions, song numbers and help to turn the dreams of many into dance presentations gave life to the a reality. I am grateful for making the wonderful occasion. effort to work together as one united Surigaonons,” she said.

Prizes for the raffle activity varied from brand new appliances, sacks of

Matugas announced that rices, gift items, umbrellas and more. another tranche of salary increase is in (PGO-SDN/PIA-Surigao del Norte) 06-12 January, 2018

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

Dinagat Islands’ crime incidents drop by 46% By: Maricel Yutrago

SAN JOSE, Dinagat Islands – The volume of crimes in the province of Dinagat Islands has dropped from January to November 2017, said an official from the Philippine National Police (PNP) of the province.

During the joint regular meeting of the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) and Provincial AntiDrug Abuse Council (PADAC) held at the DIMPC Building, San Jose town, PNP Dinagat Islands Provincial Director PSSupt. Ramir Perlito Perlas said the criminality rate in the province has decreased by 46 percent from January to November 2017.

four buy-bust operations resulting in the arrest of four persons and confiscation of drugs and marijuana from January to November 2017.

Meanwhile, PDEA Dinagat Islands Office got an earmarked budget proposal of P1,080,000 for 2018 and same amount for the Land Transportation Office (LTO) for its operational fund for rental

Perlas said the municipality of San of provincial office and trainings Jose got the highest number of crime advocacy. incidents while the municipalities of Loreto and Tubajon recorded the A supplemental budget lowest crime incident rate. amounting to P35.2 million was also allocated for the fiscal year

He said in terms of illegal drugs 2018. (SDR/PIO-Dinagat Islands/PIAcampaign, San Jose town conducted Dinagat Islands)

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Surigao del Sur

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Fishermen rescue 3 Aussies in Siargao Island By: Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – Three Australians, one of whom later died of severe dehydration, were rescued by two fishermen from Tandag City in waters off the coast of Gen. Luna town in Siargao Island on December 17.

Based on the report released by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Sub-station Tandag, Albert Murillo and Juniefer Piosang, fishermen from San Agustin Sur, Tandag City saw the three foreign nationals. Accordingly, the survivors were afloat on-board a life craft for three days before they were found.

The victims were immediately brought to the Adela Serra Ty Memorial Medical Center (ASTMMC) for immediate treatment.

The Australian nationals were identified as Lionel P. Ansselin, 65 years old, and Lawrence A Millea, 68 years old. Both were in good condition while the other survivor, Anthony J.Mihoney,

The PCG report said the Australians 73 years old, was unconscious when were on their way to Subic from they were rescued and later died due Australia when the yacht they were to severe dehydration. on capsized and sank somewhere in the waters off Siargao Island, about 50 The victims’ relatives and families miles from the coast of Tandag, due were already contacted in Australia. to bad weather brought about by (with a report from Coast-Guard SubTropical Storm Urduja.

Station Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur) 06-12 January, 2018

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Agusan del Norte

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Cabadbaran regulates wearing of helmet By: JV Lumonsod

CABADBARAN CITY, Agusan del Norte – The Sangguniang Panlungsod of Cabadbaran, through the implementation of the City Ordinance No. 2017-007, is now regulating the wearing of helmet and other protective devices that covers the face of motorcycle riders entering the vicinity of the city.

It has been observed that there were many shooting incidents in the city, including motorcycle riding in tandem that caused alarm and fear to the public.

if not put an end, the criminal elements to maintain peace and order in the city.

According to the ordinance, penalties will be imposed for its

Most of the incidents were caught violation.

by CCTV cameras but unfortunately the law enforcers could not identify the The city ordinance was approved motorcycle-riding criminals because by Sangguniang Panlalawigan through they wore full-faced helmets, bonnets, Sanggunian Resolution No. 314-2017, bull caps, and hooded jackets. authored by Provincial Board Member Aquino W. Gambe. (Agusan del Norte/

Said city ordinance will minimize, PIA-Agusan del Norte)

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06-12 January, 2018

Health News

Food tips for the home during disaster By: Imelda Angeles-Agdeppa, Ph.D

BUTUAN CITY – Some hazards are naturally occurring physical phenomena caused either by rapid or slow onset events which can be geophysical such as earthquakes, landslides, tsunamis and volcanic activity. Others are hydrological such as avalanches and floods; some climatological such as extreme temperatures, drought and wildfires, meteorological like storms and wave surges, or biological such as disease epidemics and insect or animal plagues.

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HEALTH NEWS

Technological or man-made hazards are complex emergencies or conflicts, famine, displaced populations, industrial accidents and transport accidents. These are events that are caused by humans and occur in or close to human settlements.

These can include environmental degradation, pollution and accidents.

A natural or man-made disaster can cause loss of lives or damages to properties. Our country is not spared from the havoc of natural disasters, as it is surrounded by bodies of water and is located along the Pacific Ocean’s “Ring of Fire,” from where typhoons, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions and earthquake emanate.

Emergency reserve food and water in the home are essential in the event of a natural disaster. Ensuring the safety and quality of food and water supply is very important because consumption of contaminated food or water may result in illness or death.

Careful planning and readiness help ensure safe food and water supply for the family.

Here are some practical food tips that you can follow when disaster occurs:

• Store food that are nonperishable or with long storage life;

• Store food that need no refrigeration;

• Store food that are easy to prepare to prepare and cook;

• Store food that require a minimal amount of water if preparation is needed;

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• Food should be compact and lightweight;

• Store clean water in safe sealed containers;

• Wash hands with soap and water when handling foods to prevent illnesses; and

• Include hand sanitizer

Examples of foods to store are ready-to-eat canned goods like sardines, dried fruits, juices, staples (sugar, salt, pepper), instant low-salt noodles, high energy foods (peanut butter, jelly, nuts, energy bars), cookies, candies and other snack foods. Also, avoid storing foods that are salty, spicy and caffeinated because these will increase thirst.

We must also consider the special nutritional needs of infants and young children, pregnant and lactating and older persons in the home because they are the most vulnerable persons. Like for infants and young children, breastmilk is still the best food for them. Practice and maintain exclusive breastfeeding from birth to six months.

For pregnant and lactating women, micronutrient-rich foods must be considered, like fortified foods such as instant low-salt noodles and cereals.

For older persons, store easy to chew and digest foods like soft biscuits, bread, oats and easy to prepare soups.

Also, water is the most essential life-sustaining resource. Keeping water in a clean plastic bottle will keep you hydrated.

06-12 January, 2018

HEALTH NEWS

Have a bag of foods ready to carry when disaster strikes. Every household should assemble a disaster supplies kit and keep it up to date. A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items a family would probably need to stay safe and be more comfortable during and after a disaster. Disaster supplies kit items should be stored in a portable container near or as close as possible to exit door.

Review the contents of your kit at least once every quarter or as your family needs change. Major food shortages can be a major feature during emergency situation. Planning ahead and preparing the disaster kits before calamities strike would to prevent us from additional stress when disaster strikes.

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 837-3164; 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. (Imelda Angeles-Agdeppa, Ph. D., FNRI-DOST S&T Media Service/PIA-Caraga)

06-12 January, 2018

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MINDANAO NEWS

Mindanao News

Davao-based telco to connect Mindanao poor areas to the world By: Lilian Mellejor

DAVAO CITY – A Davao-based telecommunications network is set to connect Mindanao’s underserved areas to the world using 100 mbps high-speed wireless communications system.

TierOne International, a cellular and broadband network based in Davao City, will set up 50,000 towers in and the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) before TierOne can five years nationwide. roll out the ARMM and Marawi projects

It will pilot the project in the with a total investment of USD2 billion.

Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) with about 1,000 towers, initially benefiting the government and schools in remote areas. It has also included in its pipeline the connectivity of schools in Marawi City with the Mindanao State University (MSU) as the identified site where the first tower will be installed.

Jonathon Stevens, Board Chairman of TierOne, said he is just awaiting the go signal from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to start the project in Marawi.

TierOne is positioning as a contender for the third player telecommunications provider in the Philippines. It has equity and strategic partners in Africa, Melbourne and Sydney in Australia, New York and Boston in the United States of America, and Europe.

“It comes into the ring on the shoulders of three giant partners, the Boston-based Parallel Wireless, Finlandbased Nokia, and the China-based ZTE,” Stevens said.

Stevens said he is also awaiting According to Stevens, Parallel approval of its permit from the Department of Information and Wireless, Nokia and TierOne signed Communications Technology (DICT) strategic partnership for the installation

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06-12 January, 2018

MINDANAO NEWS of the 50,000 towers focusing on the world, they just need access to the right rural and underserved areas. information,“ said.

The whole proejct will be completed within the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte. Parallel Wireless, Stevens said is one of the most awarded telecom hardware and software developers in the world and supplies transmitters.

The government can shell out funds as counterpart estimated to cost P20.000 per student.

“We are starting in Cotabato with 100 Mbps line to build their new network and assist the regional government with its critical lack of connectivity,” Stevens

Founded by Steve Papa, Parallel said.

Wireless has agreed to develop microcell towers for TierOne that operate Aside from schools, TierOne would totally off-grid, are solar powered and install towers in 52 government buildings have satellite receptors built-in to the in ARMM using equipment from Israel, transmitter requiring only 20 watts to the United States, and Australia. operate or huge land to install towers.

“The plan is to put up a mini-tower

In running the system, Stevens in every school, police and armed said TierOne does not need fiber optic forces responder station that is disasterbut only the small towers that will proof, self-contained and with back up be installed in rooftops of schools or good for the next three days so it can government buildings. connect to other agencies and can face any threat whatever happens,”

“It is ideal for remote locaitons,” Stevens said.

Stevens stressed. Stevens said ZTE is interested in partnering with TierOne to He said the system can also work build a totally new Philippine National for the agriculture sector, especially Broadband Network with a large Davao farmers in remote areas.

City-based data storage center.

Connecting remote areas was a

TierOne will be installing towers in commitment of TierOne to President every school nationwide with a USD500 Duterte, Stevens said. million in foreign funding. TierOne is committed to make the prorgams “We will not be another network, like the national geographic and we will be the network, said Stevens, who encyclopedia needed for the students’ founded the Nevada-based BentlyTel. research and as part of the education com, a consortium partner with Cable program. and Wireless Ericsson, Compaq and Nielsen in a USD110 million project to

“There is no reason the Philippines build Australia’s first fiber optic VPN. can’t have the brightest students in the (PNA) 06-12 January, 2018

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MINDANAO NEWS

TESDA training for Marawi IDPs, building hopes for a better tomorrow By: Lou Ellen L. Antonio

ILIGAN CITY – Some 2,615 internally displaced persons (IDPs) from Marawi City staying in home-based communities and evacuation centers in Iligan City and Lanao del Norte completed the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority’s (TESDA) training for Work Scholarship Program-Massive Skills Training Program.

Recognizing the hardwork and determination of the IDPs, a mass graduation and toolkits turnover ceremony was held at the Iligan City National High School Gymnasium spearheaded by TESDA, in cooperation with Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Association of Iligan-Lanao del Norte,

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Inc. and Mindanao State UniversityMaigo School of Arts and Trades.

Pursuant to its vision and mission, TESDA upholds the theme “Malasakit at Pagbabago, TESDA, Susi sa Kinabukasan.”

To further aid the IDP graduates, 06-12 January, 2018

MINDANAO NEWS equipment such as oven, multi-tester, them comply with the documentary screwdriver and welding machine were requirements for their jobs. distributed.

Meanwhile, IDP graduates of

“They are now better at nakikita cookery and food processing will be nila na [and they can finally see that] formed into different associations and there is still hope; may confidence na will be awarded with cash assistance rin, hindi kagaya ng dati [they also now through the seed capital fund. have confidence, unlike before],” said Tarhata Mapandi, concurrent Officer- DSWD Region 12 Director Bay in-Charge of TESDA Region 10 and Zorahayda Taha encouraged them Lanao del Norte Provincial Director. to work hard and determine which livelihood they would pursue.

Mapandi also gave the assurance that there are more programs that will “Ito ay simula ng inyong be provided to the IDPs like the Special pagbabago at inyong kinabukasan.

Training for Employment Program.

Kahit anong tulong para sa inyo, walang mangyayari kung kayo mismo

Speaking in Maranao dialect, ay hindi magsisipag. Huwag umasa TESDA Director-General Secretary sa gobyerno kasi kailangan tulungan Guiling A. Mamondiong in a video ninyo ang inyong mga sarili,” said Taha. message, encouraged the IDP [This is the start of your improvement. graduates to utilize the knowledge they Whatever help is given to you, nothing have earned for the betterment of their will happen if you will not work hard. Do lives. not solely depend on the governent; you have to help yourselves.]

Partnership and convergence, boosting confidence

In his message to the IDP graduates, Assistant Secretary Felix

With the help of other government Castro Jr., Manager of the Task Force agencies, TESDA is not alone in exerting Bangon Marawi (TFBM) Field Office, efforts for the rehabilitation of the assured them that they, together with people of Marawi. different government agencies, will continue to help them.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) “Hindi dito nagtatapos ang role ng distributed P5,000.00 pre-employment TESDA, DSWD, at TFBM. Susubaybayan assistance to the IDP graduates of namin ang inyong pag-unlad,” said carpentry, computer service, dress- Castro. making, driving, electrical installation maintenance, pipe-making, plastering [The role of TESDA, DSWD and TFBM concrete masonry, shield metal arc does not end here. We will monitor your welding, and hair cutting. This is to help development.]

06-12 January, 2018

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MINDANAO NEWS

TESDA also partnered with 22 schools for training. Among of these are Iligan Access Institute of Technology Inc., Iligan Computer Institute Inc., Iligan City National Highschool, Iligan Medical Center College, Lanao del Norte Agro-Industrial School, Iligan Capitol College Inc., Christian Horizon School Inc., among others.

shared that during the yuletide season, her neighbors ordered cakes from her.

“Kung ano man ang natutunan nila, dalhin nila kung saan man sila pumunta. Kapit-bisig lang po. Huwag mawalan ng pag-asa,” said Oding in her message to her fellow IDPgraduates.

[Whatever they have learned in

Determination and resilience, the training, they should bring it with constructing gratitude them wherever they go. Let us be united. Do not lose hope.]

With the training and knowledge the IDPs have earned, they are now Raysa Orida, who also completed able to weave courage in their hearts the training in cake-making was happy to defy the odds. that she finally learned baking cakes.

“Maganda po talaga; malaking tulong

Alex Mohammad, who worked po sa livelihood. Hindi ko alam paano as switchyard operator in National gumawa ng cake; natuwa ako kasi Power Corporation, has completed the napag-aralan ko siya, napagdanan ko training in electrical installation. He said siya,” said Orida. that the training boosted his morale as it will help him achieve his endeavors.

[It amazed me so much; it was really a great help for livelihood. I did

“Dapat ang natutunan natin dito not know how to bake cakes but now ay magagamit natin sa hanap buhay. I am happy because I have learned Sana makabangon tayo ulit,” said and experienced it.] “Sana hindi Mohammad. ito matapos. Sana patuloy po ito – patuloy ang rehabilitasyon sa amin at

[We should utilize all the knowledge suporta na mabuhay po kaming muli we have earned in this training as we bilang isang Maranao at Muslim,” she pursue jobs in the future. I hope we can added. rise up again.]

[I hope this will not end. I hope this

Nisah Oding, who undergone is continuous – this rehabilitation for us training in food processing, was and support in order for us to live again grateful that the program gave them as a Maranao and as a Muslim.] solace as they were able to somehow forget about the crisis. Staying in her With this initiative of TESDA, hopes relative’s home, Oding started baking for a better tomorrow and for a better cakes by just borrowing equipment Marawi were inculcated in these IDPand utensils from their neighbor. She graduates. (LEA/ PIA TFBM ICC)

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06-12 January, 2018

National News

2nd tax reform package should fund teachers’ pay hike: Duterte MANILA President Rodrigo Roa Duterte instructed his Cabinet to find means to augment the salary of Filipino school teachers, Malacañang announced on January 9.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque Jr. said the President issued the directive to increase teachers’ basic pay during last Monday’s Cabinet meeting.

Roque said President Duterte ordered the Department of Budget and Management and other agencies to include a provision in the second tax reform package to fund the said initiative.

“[The President] says that there will have to be tangible results of any 06-12 January, 2018

implementation of the second tax reform package. And he said that that should be the increase in teachers’ salary,” Roque stressed.

This comes after Congress’ passage of a joint resolution increasing the basic pay of military and other uniformed personnel in government.

Roque added that, similar to the pay hike for soldiers, police, and other uniformed personnel, teachers could also enjoy doubled salaries once the second package of tax reforms is passed.

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NATIONAL NEWS

“He did not say how much… But judging by what he wanted for the PNP (Philippine National Police) and the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines), it could be that he is also aiming to double the entry salary for teachers,” Roque said.

the country received an 86-percent optimism level from business leaders in the last quarter of 2017, the fourth highest among 36 countries surveyed.

“That optimism is backed by solid macro and micro economic indicators that make the Philippines one of the

Meanwhile, President Duterte also top performing countries in the world,” indicated during the Cabinet meeting Roque said. his intention to push for a measure to ban firecrackers and other pyrotechnic Meanwhile, the Mastercard Asiadevices in the country, his Spokesperson Pacific Consumer Confidence Survey announced. also showed that the Philippines has the highest optimism level among

“He wants Congress to enact its Asian neighbors with 94.5 points, this law at the soonest time possible so besting China and Cambodia which that the public debate on the banning both earned 92.2 points. of fireworks and pyrotechnics could begin as early as possible,” Roque Roque said the confidence of the said, reiterating the President’s view business community could be attributed that firecrackers and pyrotechnics are to the recently enacted tax reform inimical to human health and safety. law under the Duterte administration, which would fund the government’s

Roque assured that discussions infrastructure programs and social with stakeholders would begin once welfare services. a bill is passed in Congress. The President likewise instructed the Trade Palace also welcomed the Department to look for alternative recognition of the Philippine Stock livelihoods for around 75,000 Filipinos Exchange, Inc. (PSE) as the Best working in the industry, Roque added. Stock Exchange in Southeast Asia by institutional investment magazine

High level of optimism in PH Alpha Southeast Asia. economy

“Alpha Southeast Asia’s Marquee

During the same press briefing, Awards cited the PSE’s initiatives on Malacañang welcomed results of tech development, product launches, recent surveys that indicated a high and investment literacy,” Roque cited. level of optimism in the country’s “This strategy supports the goal of economic outlook. fostering a resilient and inclusive financial and monetary system, which ultimately

Results from the Grant Thornton helps create more entrepreneurs and International Business Report showed jobs,” he added. (PCO-Content)

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06-12 January, 2018

NATIONAL NEWS

Comelec to conduct hearings on barangay, SK polls in Mindanao By: Ferdinand Patinio

MANILA - Three public hearings will be held in Mindanao in connection with the conduct of May 14, 2018 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) polls.

This after the Commission on Elections (Comelec) has set the third leg in the series of public hearings in the region this month.

According to Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez, the event will be held at Grand Caprice Restaurant and Convention Center, Limketkai Center, Lapasan, Cagayan de Oro City on January 23.

06-12 January, 2018

“The consultations are precisely meant to help the Commission determine whether or not the upcoming elections should be postponed in Mindanao,� he said in a statement.

Earlier, the poll body has already set two public hearings. The first hearing will be held in Gov. Carmins Avenue, Zamboanga City on January 22 and while another hearing is set at the

31

NATIONAL NEWS Alnor Hotel and Convention Center in Last December, members of the Cotabato City on January 29.

Senate and House of Representatives, in Joint Session had approved the

“It is crucial for us to verify that the request of President Rodrigo Duterte to conditions for free and fair elections extend martial law in Mindanao until are present in spite of the persistence of December 31, 2018.

Martial Law in that part of the country,� he added.

Over a month before the supposed holding of the Barangay and SK polls,

Based on the Omnibus Election the commission en banc had ordered Code, the commission, either motu the postponement of the village and proprio or through a petition by any youth elections which was supposed to interested party, and after due notice be held on Oct. 23, 2017 in the entirety and hearing, may postpone the of Mindanao. holding of elections due to violence, terrorism, loss or destruction of election The postponement was due to the paraphernalia or records, force imposition of military rule in the region majeure, and other analogous causes. until Dec. 31, 2017 at that time. (PNA)

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06-12 January, 2018

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