Caraga InFocus – January 18-24, 2020

CONTENTS Caraga Infocus 7

18 -24 January 2020

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REGIONAL NEWS DOH Caraga to strengthen measures vs polio DTI urges stakeholders to invest in mariculture P600-B GRDP for Caraga possible in 10 years, says DTI regional chief Slain IP leaders in Caraga reached 15 Caraga IPs receive threat from CPP-NPA DSWD-Caraga hits Social Pension 2019 target DPWH Caraga puspusan ang road projects para sa mabilis na byahe 8 CNT members surrender to Caraga police DSWD Caraga surpasses target for Pantawid Pamilya SWDI assessment

Caraga RTF-ELCAC reaches out to Bayugan villagers during Peace Caravan

Volume IV, No. 04

PROVINCIAL NEWS

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Slain IP leader’s son cries for justice DA to provide livelihood to CAFGUs in SurSur SurSur IP reveals CNTs’ plan to harass military, civilians DA’s diversion dam provides stable irrigation system to SurSur farmers POPCOM partners with pharma for FP service delivery Army offensive vs NPA resumes in AgNor 3 NPA rebels, 4 mass supporters surrender to Army in AgNor 30 FRs undergo ALS skills training AgSur FRs receive cash assistance as part of reintegration program NGO conducts immersion activities in Dinagat Islands NIA turns over P8.1-M irrigation project in Dinagat Islands

MINDANAO NEWS

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MinDA to assist 3 IP villages in Zambo Sibugay DOH to hold ‘catch-up’ measles immunization in Davao Region

NATIONAL NEWS

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PRRD’s excellent rating means ‘real change’ felt: Andanar SSS: Ursula-stricken members, pensioners may now avail of Calamity Assistance Package PRRD’s net satisfaction rating soars to recordhigh ‘excellent’

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News Briefs Voter Registration 2020 begins today! To register, proceed to the Office of the Election Officer (OEO) in the district, city or municipality where you intend to vote and bring at least 1 valid ID. (COMELEC) CabSec. Karlo A.B. Nograles, Caraga CORDS, together with Agusan del Sur Gov. Santiago Cane, Agusan del Norte Gov. Dale Corvera, Bayugan City Mayor Kirk Asis, Surigao del Sur Gov. Alexander Pimentel, 4ID Commanding General MGen. Franco Nemesio Gacal, 402nd Brigade Commander BGen. Maurito Licudine, and DILG Caraga regional director Lilibeth Famacion led the unveiling of the E-CLIP half-way houses constructed in Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Norte, during today’s 4th Caraga RTF-ELCAC Meeting held in Bayugan City.

CabSec. Karlo Nograles, Caraga CORDS, accommodated the queries from the media practitioners in the region, right after 4th quarter meeting of the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) held in Bayugan City.

The Department of Health announced that it is yet to receive the confirmatory results for the case of 5 yearold under the investigation for 2019-nCov. There is no confirmed cases of 2019-nCov in the Philippines, DOH clarified.

Caraga RTF-ELCAC rea villagers during Peace

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

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AYUGAN CITY, Agusan del Sur Thousands of villagers in Mt. Carmel, this city have availed and benefited from the free basic social services from various government agencies during the Peace Caravan conducted by the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) Caraga.

Diosdado Cabilogan, 55 years old and a resident in the said barangay, came early morning at the barangay gymnasium of Mt. Carmel to avail of the free medical checkup and medicines from concerned government stakeholders. He expressed his gratitude to the officials of the city government and all the regional and national line agencies for visiting their place and for bringing to them the services they need.

“Despite living in a remote area, away from the metropolis life, the government took extra miles to reach us and bring to us the services we need for free. I’m very thankful that our mayor and barangay officials are really working hard in ensuring our welfare,”

With the presence of Cabinet said Cabilogan.

Secretary Karlo Alexie Nograles, Cabinet Officer for Regional Imerald Narra, together with Development and Security (CORDS) Junde Faith Tacio, and Charlie Verra, Caraga, the provincial government all in Grade 8 of Mt. Carmel National of Agsuan del Sur led by Governor High School also participated in the orientation and lectures on the ill effects Santiago Cane, Jr., and local officials of illegal drugs, recruitment of the New in Bayugan City headed by Mayor Kirk People’s Army, including the programs Asis, have converged their efforts to and services of the government for the meet the objectives for the conduct of children and youth sectors.

Peace Caravan, as well as the host for “I’m happy that we’re able to join the scheduled 4th RTF-ELCAC Meeting in this event here in our barangay. We at the city gymnasium.

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January 18-24, 2020

aches out to Bayugan e Caravan were given seedlings for our backyard gardening and even for our school.

My peers have also availed of the free haircut and beauty care services from the government agencies. This is really a fun experience for us,” cited Narra.

Eager to go home after availing the free consultation/check-up and free vitamins from the Department of Health (DOH), Dionisa Lariosa, four months pregnant, also received a buntis kit, which she could soon use for her baby.

“This is really a blessing for me and for all of us here in Mt. Carmel.

We always feel that the government really cares for us. I hope this kind of activity will continue and even reach other remote areas like us,” shared Lariosa.

Merla Ajan, punong barangay of Mt. Carmel also appreciated the government’s effort and initiative for continuously providing the necessary services in their community.

She also asked the government for a Farm-to-Market Road which will improve their livelihood and a building for their secondary school. (JPG/PIAAgusan del Sur) January 18-24, 2020

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REGIONAL NEWS

Regional News

DOH Caraga to strengthen measures vs polio

By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales

BUTUAN CITY – With the recent launching of the second round of the “Sabayang Patak Kontra Polio” on January 20, the Department of Health (DOH) Caraga vowed to reach the 95 percent target coverage in the region through its intensified measures.

Apart from the house-to-house vaccination, the agency has situated health workers in strategic checkpoints all over Caraga to vaccinate children below five years old. The health agency has also encouraged the cooperation of more medical practitioners, especially pediatricians, to provide vaccination to their clients belonging to target age group.

According to DOH Caraga Assistant Regional Director Dr. Rodolfo M. Alboronz, it is important for the health agency in the country to achieve the given target coverage to ensure prevention and control of future cases

of polio.

“The goal here is to leave no child unvaccinated,” he affirmed.

Previous accomplishment of DOH Caraga shows that the region has attained a 94 percent coverage.

Among the provinces, Agusan del Norte has achieved the highest number of vaccinated children with over 99 percent covered. Meanwhile, Tandang City in Surigao del Sur has achieved a whopping 100 percent while the rest of the cities in Caraga completed the 95 percent target coverage. (PIACaraga)

January 18-24, 2020

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Regional News

DTI urges stakeholders to invest in mariculture

BUTUAN CITY – With the rise of park zones allotted for mariculture in Caraga, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is encouraging stakeholders to engage in aquamarine industry by building fish cages within its identified four mariculture parks.

The said park zones are in Surigao City and in the municipalities of Nasipit, Dapa and Barobo which currently hold more than 400 existing fish cages.

Solis said that initial investment for fish farming using the Norwegian fish cage would reach P3 million inclusive of the fish cage, fingerlings, and aqua feeds, as well as technical training on

DTI Caraga Regional Director its operation.

Brielgo O. Pagaran aspires to invite investors in the aquamarine industry He added that more than 50 to maximize the region’s potential units of Norwegian fish cages are productivity in the fisheries sector. already installed in the region where bangus (milk fish) fingerlings as prime

“We need to make use of our commodity are bred. existing park zones so that people may be provided with jobs and our target An estimated four tons of bangus gross regional domestic product are harvested at least twice a year in is reached within a few years,” he each fish cage unit which is equivalent added. to almost P500,000 income per harvest.

Trade and Industry Development Specialist Dennis Solis said that DTICaraga is now providing technical assistance to investors who are interested in engaging with building Norwegian fish cages which are mobile circular cages made of high-density polyethylene.

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As it is a lucrative business, aquaculture is considered a priority industry cluster in Caraga.

Furthermore, the said project promotes environmental, economic and social sustainability thereby creating a sustainable aquaculture in the region.

(DTI Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

January 18-24, 2020

Regional News

P600-B GRDP for Caraga possible in 10 years, says DTI regional chief

BUTUAN CITY - The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) revealed that Caraga region will reach a targeted P600-billion gross regional domestic product (GRDP) within 10 years if potential productivity of agriculture, forestry, and fishery sectors is maximized.

DTI-Caraga Regional Director Brielgo O. Pagaran said that from its creation, the region started with only P29-billion GRDP in 1994 and reached P100-billion in 2019.

industry will earn Caraga an estimated P540-billion productivity. This was after considering the region’s capacity to produce bamboo and bay-ang for chopsticks, wood for biomass, and plywood, among others.

“If we dream of prosperity for all, we should set a target; if you cannot An additional P800-million is also quantify, you cannot target,” Pagaran expected from the fisheries industry said. especially through the utilization of mariculture park zones.

He also pointed out that with a total land area of more than Pagaran is hopeful that with the 2-million hectares, Caraga will yield programs of DTI and support from the great productivity potentials through local government units and regional quantifying a macro-development line agencies, the 28 percent poverty plan. incidence in the region will drop.

Pagaran further explained that for agro-industry alone, the 600-thousand hectare agricultural land can generate P60-billion, summing up the P50,000 annual productivity per hectare and the value added pegged at 100 percent.

In fact, to provide a holistic approach toward agroagri productivity, DTI Caraga conceptualized and initiated Palm Oil and Agricultural Land Management for Economic Re-integration and Sustainability (PALMERS) which is a development model and framework

The region’s top DTI official also to develop, expand, rehabilitate and sees that the potential of the forestry replant palm oil areas.

January 18-24, 2020

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Regional News

PALMERS will be the implementing for palm oil. mechanism to the Palm Oil Roadmap for the palm oil industry.

“The said executive order known as the Philippine Palm Oil Development

“Palm oil industry is one of the Authority (PPODA) is now at the office eight national priority industry clusters of Executive Secretary Salvador and it will generate more income Medialdea for review and comments and employment opportunities in from involved national agencies,” Caraga,” said Jorge P. Silaga, national Silaga added. palm oil cluster focal person.

Silaga further said that the palm

Silaga, who is also PALMERS oil industry will help reduce the poverty project coordinator, shared that incidence in the region and in the an executive order supported by country basing on the low poverty the Board of Investment Governor incidence of Malaysia, Indonesia and Napoleon Concepcion and endorsed Thailand which have palm oil as a by the office of Representative common denominator of economic Maria Angelica Matba has been development.

(DTI-Caraga/PIAdrafted to create the regulatory body Caraga)

Slain IP leaders in Caraga reached 15

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY - Due to the relentless violence and abuses of the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People’s Army (CPPNPA) in the Caraga region, the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) bared that some 15 Indigenous People leaders were already killed and left their families in grief.

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January 18-24, 2020

Regional News

According to NCIP Caraga Regional Director Ferdausi Saniel Cerna, the Commission has condemned at the highest level the ruthless acts of the terrorist CPP-NPA and the killing of IPs and their tribal leaders in the region.

He stressed that the withdrawal of support and the cutting of ties with the terrorist CPP-NPA by the IPs have caused the surge of attack and killing of the tribal leaders.

“In Caraga alone, I think more or less 15 tribal leaders were slain by the terrorist group because the IPs no longer give any form of support to the group,” cited Cerna.

Since the start of the implementation of Executive Order 70 of President Rodrigo Duterte, the IPs have shown higher trust and confidence to the government and have become more active in participating in the efforts towards addressing the insurgency problem.

The official added that the IPs are naturally peace-loving people, who just want to live a harmonious life in their respective communities.

With the help of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), the NCIP director hopes that a patrol base or army detachment will be established in every IP community that is affected by the insurgency, in order to protect them from the violence and abuses caused by the CPP-NPA.

“For me, I believe establishing a patrol base or army detachment in the area would really aid in securing the safety IP community,” added Cerna.

Datu Jumar Bucales, Municipal Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) of Lianga, Surigao del Sur, who was once ambushed by the terrorist group and survived from the incident, also asked the government for protection. He expressed with high hope for more IPs to avail and benefit from the programs and services of the government.

“We asked the government to continue to help the IPs, especially in their safety and security. We also hope that whatever would be beneficial to the community would really be given to them,” said Bucales. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

January 18-24, 2020

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Regional News

Caraga IPs receive threat from CPP-NPA

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY - The Indigenous Peoples (IPs) in Caraga region have received a threat through a message sent by the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People’s Army (CPP-NPA), after Datu Bontula Tinaghao Mansinugdan, a Higaonon tribal leader in Barangay Kinamaybay, Esperanza, Agusan del Sur was inhumanely killed in the said area.

The terrorist CPP-NPA has warned the IPs to stop hindering them from their operations; in reporting to the authorities; and even tipped off to halt in following their trail in the communities or locations where they passed by.

embarrassed as they are ones who are merely causing violence and abuses to the IPs.

Datu Manligonan stressed that the NPAs violate the agreement on ceasefire in the country. They take this

Despite this warning, the IPs were as an opportunity to penetrate and not threatened as they are firm with move from one community to another, their stand to fight for what is right for just to cause conflict. the welfare of the IP community.

“I’m not scared because we

According to Datu Manligonan are on the government’s side. The “Larry” Mansinugdan, punong NPAs are the ones who should fear barangay of Kinamaybay, Esperanza, the government because they always Agusan del Sur, the CPP-NPA are the violate the rule of the law,” cited Datu ones who should feel troubled and Manligonan.

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January 18-24, 2020

Regional News

He further elaborated that with the implementation of Executive Order 70 of the Duterte administration, the CPP-NPAs have difficulty in doing their illegal operations in the barangays.

Datu Manligonan also called on the NPA members to stick to the agreement on ceasefire, since they were the ones who asked for it to the government. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

DSWD-Caraga hits Social Pension 2019 target BUTUAN CITY The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga ended 2019 with flying colors as it was able to surpass expectations, especially in hitting its targets for its programs and services for the year.

One of its programs, the Social Pension Program for Indigent Senior Citizens (SocPen) was able to serve 140,000 senior citizens for 2019 – the set target for the Field Office for the year.

The field office has worked tirelessly to disburse the P840-million allocated budget for the program to the beneficiaries of the said program in

73 local government units in the region.

A series of payouts were conducted so that beneficiaries could claim their P3,000 stipend every semester.

A total 29,176 beneficiaries were served in Agusan del Norte province; 35,324 in Agusan del Sur; 10,715 in Dinagat Islands; 30,468 in Surigao del Norte; and 38,091 in Surigao del Sur.

January 18-24, 2020

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Regional News

The Social Pension program provides a monthly stipend amounting to P500 to augment the daily subsistence and other medical needs of indigent senior citizens. This is in line with the fulfillment of the government’s obligation to the most vulnerable sector through social protection, and for the full implementation of Republic Act 9994 or the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010.

“Nagpasalamat ko sa Ginoo nga naay pension para sa mga senior. Makatabang gyud sa kawadon. Gamiton ko ning akong nadawat para ipalit bugas ug tambal (I thank God that there is such pension for the senior citizens. Indeed, it’s a great help. I will use the pension to buy rice and medicine),” beneficiary Rosenda Mabilog, 76, said after she received her pension in San Jose, Dinagat Islands last year.

Agusan del Sur, was more than thankful to the program. “Nagpasalamat kog dako sa DSWD sa akong nadawat… nga di pud ko magsalig sa akong mga anak kay naa napud silay mga pamilya (I’m thankful to DSWD for the pension I got. I will no longer rely on my children as they already have their own families),” Bauso said.

Eligible for the program are senior citizens who are 60 years old and above; frail, sickly or with disability; no pension from government agencies or any other insurance company; no permanent source of income; and no regular support from their family for their basic needs.

Based on the 2015 Census of Population, there are over 7.5 million senior citizens in the country. The number is expected to hit 9.5 million by 2020. DSWD will be ready to cater to their needs, through the different

Another beneficiary, Fernando programs and services. (DSWD-13/PIABauso, 74, a resident of San Francisco, Caraga)

DPWH Caraga puspusan ang road projects para sa mabilis na byahe

LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN - Patuloy ang ginagawang road construction project ng Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Caraga para sa mga kalsadang makakatulong para mapabilis ang biyahe sa iba’t ibang lugar ng Caraga region gayundin sa ibang lugar ng Mindanao.

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January 18-24, 2020

Regional News

Kabilang dito ang construction ng Agusan-Malaybalay road na nagkakahalaga ng P1.1 at nasa 77.62 percent sa buwan ng Disyembre noong nakaraang taon.

lugar, ngayon lang niya naranasan ang magkaroon ng magandang daan.

Ayon kay DPWH Caraga Regional Director Pol delos Santos, kabilang din ang Buenavista-Lawan lawan Sinimulan ang construction boundary Bukidnon road sa mga nito taong 2015 at inaasahang inaasahang malapit ng matapos. makakatulong ng maraming mamamayan.

Samantala, dahil sa sunod-sunod na naranasang lindol sa iba’t ibang

Malaki ang pasasalamat ng mga parte ng Mindanao, binigyang diin din residente ng Esperanza, Agusan del Sur ni director delos Santos ang patuloy sa ginagawang Agusan-Malaybalay na pag-iinspeksyon ng ahensya sa road. Anila, bagamat hindi pa ito mga imprastraktura ng rehiyon at tuluyang natatapos, nakatulong na ito kabilang na ang Magsaysay bridge para mapadali ang pagdadala nila ng ng Butuan City na binuksan sa publiko kanilang mga produkto sa merkado. noong Mayo 19, 1953. Ayon kay delos Santos nasa maayos pa na kondisyon

Naging emosyunal naman si Rosie ang tulay at walang pinsalang Echinique habang nagpapasalamat sa natamo sa sunod-sunod na lindol na gobyerno partikular na sa DPWH dahil naranasan sa Mindanao. (NCLM/PIA sa halos 30 taon na siya ay nakatira sa Caraga) January 18-24, 2020

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Regional News

8 CNT members surrender to Caraga police BUTUAN CITY Eight members of the Communist New People’s Army Terrorist (CNT) voluntarily surrendered to the Surigao del Sur Police Provincial Police Office (SDSPPO) on January 15.

The said surrenderees were identified as Alias Urban, 67 years old, squad leader Sub-Regional Guerilla Unit (SRGU), Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC) Cahalinan, Davao City, resident of Banacan, Brgy Purisima, Tago, Surigao del Sur; Alias Diokno, 48 years old, Financial Logistic Officer (FLO) of the Main Regional Guerrilla Unit (MRGU) Guerilla Front Committee (GFC) 19, Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC), from Brgy. Sumo-sumo, Tago, Surigao del Sur; Alias Ryan, 60 years old, farmer, Vice Commanding Officer (VCO) of the ESPADA UNIT, GFC 16, NEMRC of Banacan, Brgy. Victoria, Tago, Surigao del Sur with caliber .45 Taurus pistol with SN: 912506. Alias Bryan, 48 years old, farmer, member of Sentro de Grabidad (SDG), GFC 19, NEMRC, resident of Brgy Sumo-sumo, Tago, Surigao del Sur; Alias

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Gamay, 30 years old, farmer, member of SDG, GFC 19, NEMRC, resident of Brgy. Kauswagan, San Agustin, Surigao del Sur with caliber .38 S&W revolver without SN; Alias Rustom, 22 years old, farmer, member of SDG Platoon 1, GFC 19, NEMRC, resident of Brgy Kauswagan, San Agustin, Surigao del Sur with caliber .38 S&W revolver without SN; Alias ASHLEY, 22 years old, farmer, Medic, SDG, Platoon 1, GFC 19, NEMRC of P-1, Brgy. Kauswagan, San Agustin, Surigao del Sur; and Alias Jonifer, 25 years old, farmer, member of Platoon 8, GFC 19, NEMRC of P-3, Brgy Hanipaan, San Agustin, Surigao del Sur. The now-former rebels will be receiving livelihood assistance from the government through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Plan (E-CLIP). (DMR/PRO13/PIA-Caraga)

January 18-24, 2020

Regional News

DSWD Caraga surpasses target for Pantawid Pamilya SWDI assessment

To quote a saying from Albert Einstein, a great physicist, he once said, “Only a life lived for others is a life worthwhile.”

This saying has been proven true by the 632-strong Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) staff from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga.

Over the years, they have, time and again, offered their steadfast commitment and untiring service to almost 180,000 Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries in the region.

Abiding the service brand SERVE1st, condensed by the Regional Program Management Office (RPMO), the Pantawid staff have become the Program’s front liners in the field, especially in the administration of the Social Welfare and Development

assessment using the SWD Indicator (SWDI) tool. The enhanced SWDI tool is used to determine and monitor the progress of the beneficiaries’ wellbeing and facilitate grassroots case management. The results will also serve as the baseline data of the beneficiaries in the program’s implementation.

“I can honestly say that my eyes have seen both beautiful and heart-

January 18-24, 2020

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Regional News in delivering quality service, even in farflung and isolated areas like Barangay Roma in Basilisa, Dinagat Islands.

According to Heide Madelene Ebueza, Municipal Link assigned in Basilisa, PDI, it is a privilege to render her time in serving the poor and vulnerable sectors in the community and that it is very fulfilling to listen to praises spoken about how breaking conditions of our beneficiaries the government has during the administration of the SWDI. addressed their struggles.

There are times that I get stressed and drained from work, but the thought As of December 31, 2019, Field of my family is the source of strength, Office Caraga has been able to happiness, and inspiration. They keep administer the SWDI assessment to me going,” Maricel Asidella, Municipal 89.93% of the total beneficiaries of the Link (ML) assigned in Dapa, Surigao del program in the region. This is higher Norte, shared. than the required target of 70% by the Central Office. The RPMO is targeting

In 2019, the field offices were to hit the 100% by the end of the first given the task to conduct a SWDI re- quarter this year. This goes to show that assessment for the 4.4 million Pantawid when work is paired with enthusiasm beneficiaries in the country. According and genuine service, it produces good to Jean Paul Parajes, DSWD FO Caraga results.

Promotive Services Division Chief, it is appropriate for the Program to “I know that this is an additional conduct the administration of SWDI responsibility added to our shoulders, to have an “updated data of target but I am hoping that we do our best to households, analyzed and visualized deliver this service efficiently,” Parajes for the consumption of case managers, added. policy makers, and other stakeholders.”

Indeed, Albert Einstein was right in

As public servants, it was both saying that life is only worthwhile when a challenge and a blessing for the it is lived for others. (Social Marketing staff to serve, giving their best efforts Section/DSWD-13/PIA-Caraga)

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January 18-24, 2020

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Provincial News

Slain IP leader’s son cries for justice

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY - The family of Datu Bontula Tinaghao Mansinugdan, an Indigenous People (IP) leader in a village in Esperanza, Agusan del Sur, welcomed the new year with grief as they learned the killing of their family member by the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).

Datu Bontula was found dead near the Kinabonglohan Creek, Barangay Kinamaybay, Esperanza, Agusan del Sur on January 1 after he was shot dead by the terrorist CPP-NPA.

forcibly tied his father and abducted them.

Gali could not accept and understand until this time as to why the CPP-NPA inhumanely killed his father.

He was with Datu Bontula on December 31, 2019, when the terrorist group had

Meanwhile, NCIP Caraga Regional Director Ferdausi Saniel Cerna said that the Commission and other concerned agencies will give the needed assistance to the bereaved

He was also saddened to recall that one of the NPA members who called his father “bayaw” or brother-in At his young age, Gali – not law did not help them. his real name, an 11-year old son of Datu Bontula, accompanied by their While Gali was recounting the punong barangay asked for help from details to the media, he also stressed the National Commission on Indigenous that he would never forget how his Peoples (NCIP) and the national father suffered from the hands of the government and pleaded for justice to NPA, and he would fulfill his dream to be served for the untimely death of his become a soldier when he grows up, father. so he could protect his tribe.

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January 18-24, 2020

Provincial News family of Datu Bontula.

government’s intervention particularly in addressing the security needs of the

“We will be giving assistance to IPs in their respective communities, the family of Datu Bontula and we will with the hope to curb the insurgency help their adoptive family so they could problem in the region. cope with life,” cited Dir. Cerna.

“I hope the government could

Datu Manligonan “Larry” also place a patrol base for us to be Mansinugdan, punong barangay secured in our community,” said Datu of Kinamaybay also asked for Manligonan. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

DA to provide livelihood to CAFGUs in SurSur

BISLIG CITY, Surigao del Sur - Aimed to uplift the lives of the Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU)- Active Auxiliary (CAA) members, the Department of Agriculture (DA) Caraga Region in partnership with the 75th Infantry Battalion (75IB), Philippine Army has strengthen its support to the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) and CAAs by providing livelihood assistance.

January 18-24, 2020

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Provincial News

According to Captain Edwin Leo Francisco, 75IB Civil-Military Operations (CMO) officer, the livelihood program is under the Kabuhayan at Kaunlaran ng Kababayang Katutubo (4Ks) implemented by the DA. This program is funded by the DA’s Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) as part of the government’s effort of empowering the IPs to alleviate their lives from poverty.

throughout the 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division,” said Captain Francisco.

This project will certainly elevate the lives of the CAAs who only received subsistence allowance which is not enough to sustain the needs of their respective families, Captain Francisco added.

Meanwhile, 75IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Warren Munda expressed

The 4Ks project implementation his gratitude to the DA-Caraga for the is one of the directives of President opportunity that could benefit the 554 Duterte’s administration through the CAA members under his command. provision of assistance in the form of agriculture and fisheries-related “This project will have a great livelihood opportunities intended for impact on the welfare and progress IPs, it was learned. of our CAAs under the 75IB. This simply shows that the government is indeed

“This is another milestone for the pushing forward their services to make 75th IB since the CAAs of the unit will it closer to our CAAs,” Lt. Col. Munda be first to avail of the 4Ks program said. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)

SurSur IP reveals CNTs’ plan to harass military, civilians

By Lt. Krisjuper Andreo Punsalan

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur - A concerned Indigenous People (IP) member in Diatagon, Lianga, revealed on January 21, the plans of the Communist New People’s Army (NPA) terrorists (CNTs) to harass the Community Support Teams of the 9th Special Forces “Hounds” Company and the IP community in Sitio Simuwao (Kilometer 9), Diatagon, Lianga, Surigao del Sur.

Alias Uway (who requested anonymity for security reasons) said that before the lifting of ceasefire from January 3 to 6, the leaders, and

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members of the Weakened Guerilla Front 19 (WGF19) and Malahutayong Pakigbisog Alang sa mga Sumusunod (MAPASU), a militant and an alleged

January 18-24, 2020

Provincial News CNT-affiliated group conducted a meeting in Sitio Panukmuan, a far-flung sitio of Diatagon. Accordingly, they plan to harass the government troops in Kilometer 9 despite the presence of innocent civilians. Alia Uway said, he overheard the meeting since he was invited by a friend, who was also a MAPASU member.

na sila at hirap na sila makagalaw dahil sa Whole-Of-Nation Approach to End Local Communist Armed Conflict. Gusto nila guluhin ang sitio para matakot uli ang mga tao, then, magbakwit nanaman para magkaroon ng rason to remove military presence in the community,” LTC Baybayan said.

“Whatever happens, we will not leave the area as ordered by our Commander-in-Chief and until the objectives of the Surigao del Sur Task Force to end Insurgency are attained,” he added.

“Nagplano ang MAPASU na irequest sa armado nga harason ang komunidad sa Kilometer 9 para magbakwit ang mga tao (MAPASU plans to request the armed group to harass the community of Kilometer 9 so that the people will evacuate).

The 3SFBn official, further, said Nireport ko agad kasi may pamilya ako that in fairness to the group, they will sa Kilometer 9,” Alias Uway said. continue to reach out to the MAPASU leadership for dialogues and hear their

The 3rd Special Forces side since this is, by far, still an allegation “Arrowhead” Battalion (3SFBn), on the and they cannot just accuse anyone. other hand, is still validating the veracity of the information and this will not be “If there will be no harassments, taken lightly as this involves innocent well and good. If the allegation will civilians who are now working hard to materialize, then we already have attain lasting peace in the sitio through a lead and suspects and this would the various government programs and only mean that the report against the delivery of basic services. alleged meeting and plot of MAPASU and the Communist NPA Terrorists to

Lt. Colonel Joey Baybayan, 3SFBn harass the Community Support Teams Commanding Officer, said that this and the community is true and criminal might be the desperate move of the charges will be filed against them as CNTs to hamper the development in we have a witness,” said Colonel Allan the area and once again trigger IPs’ Hambala, 401st Brigade Commander. displacement, then falsely accuse and demonize the military on the “If they will harass the community, harassment. mas magagalit ang mga tao sa kanila because the terroristic act will definitely

“They are trying to preempt the be condemned by the peace-loving IPs peace in the sitio because they are in the sitio,” Colonel Hambala added. now on the losing end. Survival mode (3SFBn/PIA-Surigao del Sur) January 18-24, 2020

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Provincial News

DA’s diversion dam provides stable irrigation system to SurSur farmers

By Rhea C. Abao

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur - Rice farmers in the Municipality of Cortes, Surigao del Sur can now irrigate their farmland as the IgangCaman-onan and Kagbaye Diversion Dams start to operate this year in Barangay Burgos, Cortes, this province.

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January 18-24, 2020

Provincial News

Two diversion dams formally turned over recently by Department of Agriculture (DA) Regional Technical Director Nicandro M. Navia, Jr. worth ₱6.38 Million projects to Cagbaye Farmers Irrigators Association (CFIASWISA) and Camam-onan Farmers Samahang Walang Iwanan sa Agrikultura (CFSWISA) all of Cortes town.

“We are more than willing to partner with the local government units to make idle lands productive that the farmers can benefit,” Director Navia said.

The newly constructed diversion dams are part of the small-scale irrigation project under the DA Rice Program in partnership with the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM) and coordination with the Local Government Units. A total of 60 farmers will be provided with a stable irrigation system for rice production.

But with the establishment of the irrigation system, this rekindles hope among rice farmers who wanted to increase their income and maximized rice yields.

“Our struggle ended in 2019 when the diversion dam is completed.

This is a big help for us to effectively and efficiently use the water for quality production,” Olbes said.

The Camam-onan Diversion Dam reuses water from Camam-onan Creek that traverses Sitio Egang to irrigate 17 hectares of rice lands. Three to four kilometers away Kagbaye Diversion Dam also reuses water from Cagbaye Creek that passes Sitio Hilamon to irrigate 30 hectares of farmlands.

For the year 2019, a total of 12 diversion dams were constructed and rehabilitated and additional three irrigation systems are on-going for rehabilitation and improvement

“We were the only ones located at Loreto, Agusan del Sur, doing the sand-bagging to build a Tubod and Tagana-an, Surigao del makeshift irrigation canal. However, Norte. the improvised canal was no use during the rainy season for it is not The DA focuses to build more strong enough to control the water,” agriculture infrastructures to help CFSWISA President Restituto Olbes the farm sector to improve rural recalled. productivity and increase the income of local farmers through Secretary

Most farmers in the barangay William D. Dar’s agri-industrialization have been dependent on rainwater strategy.

(DA-Caraga RAFIS/PIAto irrigate their farms, he added.

Surigao del Sur) January 18-24, 2020

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Provincial News

POPCOM partners with pharma for FP service delivery

By Angelita B. Antonio

BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte - The Commission on Population and Development (POPCOM) Caraga in partnership with DKT Philippines is set to conduct three Family Planning (FP) service delivery activities in select health facilities in the region this month, providing free bilateral tubal ligation (BTL), non-scalpel vasectomy (NSV), and progestin subdermal implant (PSI) for qualified individuals.

The three-round service delivery starts at Cabadbaran District Hospital (Cabadbaran City) on January 20; followed by Surigao del Norte Provincial Hospital (Placer, Surigao del Norte) on January 21; and Bunawan District Hospital (Bunawan, Agusan del Sur) on January 23.

Both BTL and NSV are permanent modern family planning methods. BTL (for women) is a surgical procedure in which the fallopian tubes are permanently blocked or removed while NSV (for men) involves cutting and tying the vas deferens to prevent the sperm from entering the urethra, thereby preventing fertilization. PSI, on the other hand, is a long-acting method that uses a matchsticksized rod that contains the hormone progestin inserted in the left arm of women to prevent impregnation up to three years.

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POPCOM and DKT will grant material and financial support to the successful clients of the said FP services.

POPCOM encourages all qualified individuals to avail of the free service, especially those who are situated near the aforementioned facilities. Interested individuals may visit their local health units and signify their interest to the family planning (FP) coordinator. The FP coordinators will administer the pre-counseling and the consent form before finally referring the client to the procedure.

These activities form part of the intensified implementation of the National Program on Population and Family Planning (NPPFP), as one of the strategies in attaining and sustaining zero unmet need for modern family planning.

(POPCOM Caraga/PIA Caraga)

January 18-24, 2020

Provincial News

Army offensive vs NPA resumes in AgNor By 1Lt Miguel O Borromeo

CABADBARAN CITY, Agusan del Norte - Troops of the 29th Infantry (MATATAG) Battalion resumed their offensive against the Communist New People’s Army terrorists (CNTs) as they clashed with them again on January 16, 2020, in an uninhabited area of Maribuhok, Brgy. Bangayan, Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte.

While on a combat operation, the 29IB troopers encountered more or less 10 CNTs believed to be members of Sentro De Grabidad (SDG) 16, Guerilla Front Committee (GFC) 16 of North Eastern Mindanao Regional Command (NEMRC) under alias Weng.

The firefight lasted for about 15 minutes; the troops continued to pursue the enemy but they hastily scampered in different directions leaving some

of their valuable war materials such as one anti-personnel mine, two 40mm ammunition for M203 Grenade Launcher, 10 ponchos (raincoats), food supplies, other personal belongings, and subversive documents.

There was no casualty among the troops while there was an undetermined number of casualties on the side of the terrorists as indicated by bloodstains along their routes of withdrawal.

January 18-24, 2020

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Provincial News

Such a positive encounter is a result of the civilians’ cooperation with the Army to end the conflict in their area. It can also be recalled that Brgy.

Bangayan of Kitcharao is one with the government in ending insurgency as they have declared CNTs as Persona Non-Grata (PNG) in their community through resolution No. 08 dated May 7, 2019, as well as the creation of their Barangay Task Force- ELCAC through resolution no. 01 on October 27, 2019.

Lt. Col. Isagani O. Criste, Commanding Officer of 29IB, was grateful for the information provided by the residents about the whereabouts of the CNTs. “This only proves that the

residents are now ready to embrace change and peace in their area. This is evidence that you are now willing to ‘walk the talk’ which you have made as you signed the resolutions on PNG and BTF-ELCAC,” he said.

“I know that the peace which we are all longing for is near at hand; we just need to believe so and do all we can to achieve it. Your Matatag troopers are always here to support and help you achieve the peace and development which you are all hoping for. We just need your continuous support and trust. In return, we promise to do our part,” Criste added. (CMO Officer, 29IB, PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)

3 NPA rebels, 4 mass supporters surrender to Army in AgNor By 1Lt Miguel O. Borromeo

CABADBARAN CITY, Agusan del Norte - Through the relentless efforts of the Community Support Teams (CSTs) deployed in the area of operations of the 29th Infantry (MATATAG) Battalion under the leadership of Lt. Col. Isagani O. Criste, three NPA rebels together with four other mass supporters surrendered to the troops on January 16, 2020, in Brgy. San Antonio, Remedios Trinidad Romualdez (RTR), Agusan del Norte.

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January 18-24, 2020

Provincial News

The said NPA rebels and mass supporters who voluntarily surrendered belong to one clan. They were identified as alias YENI, 39 years old; alias VIC, 43 years old; and alias RINA, 40 years old - all armed members of Squad “BOBEE– 3”, Sandatahang Yunit Pangpropaganda (SYP) 21C, Weakened Guerilla Front (GFC) 21 of North Eastern Mindanao Regional Command under the leadership of alias ABDUL. The four who were mass supporters and couriers of the Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) with ages ranging from 12 to 33 years old are the sons and daughters of these rebels. Said surrenderers brought along “We are already tired of fighting for an with them one M-16 rifle, one magazine, ideology full of lies. It was fortunate that we listened to a radio program that ammunition, and medical supplies. discussed how the government would

Alias Vic and alias Rina emotionally help those who are willing to surrender. said that at first, they thought that the That gave us hope and strengthened NPA would help their family because our desire to finally surrender,” said Yeni. “that’s what they promised us. Our Lt. Col. Isagani O. Criste, children were even used to support them. We trusted them to help our family, Commanding officer of 29IB said that but everyday no help was offered and he was glad that these NPA rebels were enlightened and decided to surrender our situation just worsened.” and return to the folds of law where they

“We realized that as parents we can be given the opportunity to avail are supposed to be protecting and of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local leading our children to what is right, Integration Program of the government. but it seems we’re the ones dragging “With this, they can start a new life and them to danger. So, we decided to can look forward to a better future with find ways to surrender in order to save their families,” he said. our family. We are so grateful that the “To those who are having second Army is present and never gets tired of encouraging those who lost their way thoughts about surrendering, come down now. Trust your Army and the to surrender and return,” they said. government for we are here to truly

Likewise, according to alias Yeni, help you to have a better life compared they could no longer stand the extreme to the life which you have right now” fatigue, hunger and hardships that Criste added. (CMO Officer, 29IB, PA/ they experienced in the mountains. PIA Agusan del Norte) January 18-24, 2020

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Provincial News

30 FRs undergo ALS skills training By 1Lt. Roel T. Maglalang

BUTUAN CITY - Thirty former rebels (FRs) undergone 10 months Alternative Learning System (ALS) skills training at the headquarters of the 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion (23IB), Jamboree Site, P-6 Barangay Alubihid in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.

The activity was made possible through the convergence effort of the Department of Education (DepEd) of Agusan del Norte headed by Dr. Romeo Aprovechar, Schools Division Superintendent of Agusan del Norte and the 23IB headed by Lt. Col. Francisco L. Molina, Jr., Commanding Officer.

In his message, Dr. Aprovechar inspires the FRs by citing his experiences in life that bring him to what he is now.

He shares that it takes a lot of effort and hard work in order to reach their dreams as long as they do not lose hope, they will surely succeed in life.

Further, he said that education teaches the ability to read and write. It is extremely important for employment

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and an opportunity to make a decent living. This is due to the skills of a high paying job that Education provides.

“Uneducated people are probably at a huge disadvantage when it comes to jobs. It seems that many poor people improve their lives with the help of Education,” Aprovechar added.

Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Molina encouraged the participants to take advantage of the program to be enlightened and equipped for their future. The ALS provides an opportunity for the FRs to develop their knowledge and skills in communication and teaches them the value of education in applying what they’ve learned when they become reintegrated in mainstream society. (CMO Officer, 23IB, PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)

January 18-24, 2020

Provincial News

AgSur FRs receive cash assistance as part of reintegration program By 1Lt. Percival Carido

TALACOGON, Agusan del Sur – Two former rebels (FRs) have received cash assistance amounting to P5,000.00 each from the Provincial Social Welfare and Development (PSWD) of Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur on Monday afternoon, January 20, 2020.

The said FRs were identified as Jovelyn L. Tahudan and Robert H. Lipanda, both residents of San Luis, Agusan del Sur. Prior to the said aid, they also received an immediate cash assistance amounting to P25,000.00 each from the local government of San Luis few days after their surrender last October 25, 2019.

The two were just few among the enlightened individuals who finally went back to the mainstream society after being deceived by the terrorist Communist Party of the Philippines - New People’s Army (CPPNPA) propaganda and are currently undergoing reintegration program as part of the Enhanced - Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) from the national government.

They were happy and overjoyed upon receiving the cash benefit. “Dako kaayo akong pasalamat kay tinood gayud ang gisaad kanamu nga kami pagatabangan sa goberno alang sa among pagsugod sa bag-ong kinabuhi nga gawasnon kauban ang among pamilya (I’m thankful because the government has fulfilled its promise to help the former rebels like us, that we could start a new life with our family),” Tahudan said.

January 18-24, 2020

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Provincial News

The 26th Infantry (Ever Onward) Battalion (26IB), Philippine Army led by its commanding officer Lt. Col. Romeo C. Jimenea, in collaboration with the PSWD officer Razel Montemor, assisted the enrollment of the FRs to the E-CLIP, which will cover their reintegration, livelihood, educational and housing benefits.

“We are committed to help and assist to the needs of our brothers and sisters who finally returned to the folds of the law and chose to live in harmony together with their families,” Montemor said.

Meanwhile,

Lt.

Col.

Jimenea

congratulated the two FRs after receiving the said benefits. “Said cash assistance is just an initial prize for your surrender. There will be more benefits that will be given to you to help you all in starting anew through E-CLIP,” he said.

The official also called on the remaining members of the NPA to stop causing conflicts in the communities, and surrender to the government. “Our door remains open in accepting you all back to the folds of the law. We are offering you a way out but if you continue to resist, then it will cause your own ruin,” Jimenea added. (CMO officer, 26IB/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

NGO conducts immersion activities in Dinagat Islands SAN JOSE, Dinagat Islands - The Ateneo Human Rights Center (AHRC) is in Dinagat Islands for the immersion of their interns and to do groundworking activities for the Access to Justice program of the Provincial Legal Office (PLO).

The interns will live with host families in the different municipalities of Dinagat Islands to raise their awareness on the issues surrounding the people, in line with the Atenean value of being “persons for others.”

flagship program of the PLO funded by the Canadian Embassy which is the Access to Justice program.

The Access to Justice program seeks to ensure that Dinagatnons are empowered as citizens with knowledge

AHRC personnel will also about their rights and legal processes. regularly check on their interns while conducting groundworking activities The program includes seminars at the grassroots level together with on the law, as well as legal aid missions the Provincial Government and other with volunteer lawyers. local government unit partners for the

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January 18-24, 2020

Provincial News Governor Arlene Kaka Bag-ao says the practice of alternative law involves empowering marginalized sectors such as farmers, fisherfolk, workers, women, indigenous peoples, etc. through knowledge of the law.

“This would enable them to have the capacity to protect their own rights.

Alternative law also includes identifying gaps and flaws in existing policies, as

well as proposals to change or amend them in order to truly work for the people, especially the marginalized,” Bag-ao says.

Governor Bag-ao was once an AHRC intern when she was studying law in the Ateneo. During her immersion in the 90s, she lived with farmers in Sariaya, Quezon. (Dinagat Islands-Provincial Information Office/PIA-Dinagat Islands)

NIA turns over P8.1-M irrigation project in Dinagat Islands

By Alexander Lopez

BUTUAN CITY – The National Irrigation Administration in Caraga Region (NIA13) handed over on Thursday (Jan. 23) a communal irrigation system that will benefit over 25 hectares of palay farms in Barangay Garcia in Libjo town, Province of Dinagat Islands.

Known as the “Garcia-Kudkuran Communal Irrigation Project,” the project’s turnover was led by Governor Arlene “Kaka” Bag-ao and NIA General Manager Madante Ganotisi.

farmers’ groups and associations in the area.

To ensure that the project will sustain to benefit more farmers in the future, Bag-ao called on the

The irrigation project was beneficiaries to properly manage the funded under the Comprehensive irrigation facility, including the care of Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) of its water source, the Kudkuran River. the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in the amount of over PHP8.1 She also urged them to plant more million. It will benefit 25 Agrarian Reform trees in the river banks and areas near Beneficiaries (ARBs) and the other the source of the irrigation project.

January 18-24, 2020

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Provincial News

In a statement on Thursday, the Dinagat Islands’ information office said the farmers in Barangay Garcia expressed gratitude to NIA, DAR and the provincial government for the realization of the project.

Garcia-Kudkuran Communal Irrigation through a modernization-based upgrading package.

The irrigation will also enhance the productivity of palay farmers and stimulate economic activity in

It said the project is expected to Barangay Garcia and its nearby areas, improve the operating efficiency of the it added. (PNA)

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January 18-24, 2020

MINDANAO NEWS

Mindanao News

MinDA to assist 3 IP villages in Zambo Sibugay

By Digna Banzon

DAVAO CITY The Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) said it has expanded assistance to three more Indigenous People (IP) barangays in Zamboanga Sibugay.

In a statement on Friday, MinDA said the barangays of Pulidan, Kipit, and Tugop Muslim in the town of Titay will be the next recipients of the agency’s agricultural livelihood projects.

MinDA Secretary Emmanuel Piñol said the decision came following the “Serbisyo Caravan” organized

by Zamboanga Sibugay’s Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) on Friday, during which the three barangays were identified as among the province’s conflict-affected areas.

people to work at their farms and go home peacefully,” Piñol said.

The caravan is an initiative of various local government units, national government agencies, and governmentowned and -controlled corporations (GOCCs) to provide a one-stop shop for various social services needed by constituents of these barangays.

“Our government service providers are here because we want to prove that the Duterte administration is sincere. That you have a government that listens and cares for you,” Piñol added.

“Genuine development can only happen in Mindanao if peace and He said the residents of the identified security become our priority, allowing barangays would be trained for egg

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January 18-24, 2020

Mindanao News production, vegetable farming, and goat MinDA will also engage the multiplier farming. barangays for its water supply program through its solar-powered irrigation

MinDA’s Western Mindanao team initiative. will also work together with the Provincial Agriculture Office for vegetable farming, Meanwhile, Zamboanga Sibugay and other agricultural-based economic Governor Wilter Yap Palma called on the activities that would uplift the quality of province’s communities to be a partner lives of the area’s Subanen communities, of the government in attaining collective he added. peace and development.

“We will develop these barangays into agricultural learning center communities with the assistance of TESDA (Technical Education and Skills Development Authority) for technical trainings and skills programs,” Piñol said.

“Those who are still on the hills, let the government help you. Let us help one another. We brought to you this caravan because we want to show you that you have the government that you can trust and rely on. If there is no peace, there is no development,” Palma said. (PNA)

DOH to hold ‘catch-up’ measles immunization in Davao Region

By Che Palicte

DAVAO CITY - The Department of Health in Region 11 (DOH-11) will conduct a catch-up measles immunization campaign in Davao Region as soon as the vaccines are made available, an official said on Thursday.

Dr. Annabelle Yumang, DOH- authorities to prioritize unvaccinated 11 director, issued the immunization children and those children who have advisory following the recorded 1,754 missed a measles-containing vaccine cases of measles in 2019. dose for the catch-up immunization,”

“I am directing our local health she said.

January 18-24, 2020

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Yumang also directed for the prioritization of barangays with a cluster of measles cases, including the hard to reach or geographically isolated, urban poor and depressed areas.

In Mati City, Davao Oriental, for instance, the province declared a measles outbreak last year.

prevent transmission of measles.

While waiting for the arrival of the vaccines, Mati City health officer Dr. Ben Hur Catbagan said they have strengthened their surveillance measures down to the barangay level.

Records from DOH revealed that Davao City registered the most number of cases with 683 and 13 deaths; Davao del Norte with 395 cases and five deaths; and Davao de Oro with 235 cases and two deaths.

Catbagan said they need support for additional personnel to man the isolation wards since most of their health personnel will be utilized in the third round of the polio immunization campaign on January 20 until February 2.

Davao Oriental has 289 cases without fatality; Davao del Sur with 127 cases without fatality; and Davao Occidental with only 25 cases and zero fatality.

Based on the health advisory,

Catbagan said they have the most affected age group is less observed a decrease in the number of than 1-year-old at 35 percent, while 20 admission of measles patients to one percent for the 1-4-year-old children. or two per day in Mati City though, but Most of the cases have no history admitted that measles transmission is still happening in some areas of the city. of vaccination while the rest have

incomplete vaccinations. In addition,

He said they are sustaining their 90 percent of the deaths recorded were advocacy measures by giving public from the less than 5-year-old children. health warning and advisory on how to (PNA)

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January 18-24, 2020

NATIONAL NEWS

National News SEC. MARTIN ANDANAR PCOO

NEWS CORNER

PRRD’s excellent rating means ‘real change’ felt: Andanar

enjoyed a high satisfaction rating, even reaching a record-high after the midterm period unlike past administrations,” Andanar said in a press statement.

“This means that the President has the support of the people, for which he is very thankful. But more than that, the people support him because they feel his legacy of real change,” he added.

According to the SWS survey, around 82 percent of adult Filipinos expressed satisfaction with Duterte’s performance, while only 10 percent were dissatisfied and the remaining 8 percent were ambivalent on the matter.

The poll results yielded an “excellent” +72 net satisfaction MANILA - The new record-high rating, higher than seven points from September 2019’s “very good” +65.

“excellent” public satisfaction with President Rodrigo Duterte’s performance only proves that Filipinos are impressed with his “legacy of real change,” Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar said on Wednesday.

The PCOO chief was elated that there was also an increase in satisfaction with the President’s performance across all geographic areas, as well as among all age groups, both men and women, and in urban and rural areas.

Andanar assured the public that Duterte, with the help of his administration, would continue to take

Andanar issued the statement, as initiatives aimed at improving the lives he welcomed the results of the Social of all Filipinos.

Weather Stations’ December 13 to 16 poll, which showed that Duterte earned “President Duterte has been a net satisfaction score of “excellent” reliable and as good as his word in +72 in the last quarter of 2019. responding to the needs of Filipinos,

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with his service and concern being felt “The President has consistently by all,” he said.

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January 18-24, 2020

National News

“With clear vision and goals, this administration continues to undertake necessary reforms and implement programs that benefit the country and every Filipino,” Andanar added.

be pursued to address the basic and immediate needs of the people.

He also said that Duterte’s “no compromise stance” on the alleged onerous deals with water

Andanar also welcomed the SWS concessionaires Manila Water and survey results which revealed that 52 Maynilad stays. percent of adult Filipinos are expecting the President to fulfill “all or nearly all/ He added that the anti-illegal most of his promises.” drugs campaign launched by Duterte since he assumed the presidency in

On Friday, the PCOO launched 2016 would remain relentless. the “Duterte Legacy” campaign, which showcases the three key pillars Such reforms, he said, are meant of the President’s legacy -- peace and to fulfill the President’s vow to give order, infrastructure and development, Filipinos a “comfortable life.” and poverty alleviation.

“It is with steadfast commitment

The government’s efforts lifted that this administration will continue around 5.9 million out of poverty, to undertake the necessary programs according to the PCOO infographic. and services in order to provide a comfortable life for all, as a fulfillment

Andanar guaranteed that the of his promises, as a testament to the current administration’s programs ‘Duterte Legacy,’” Andanar said. and policies on poverty would still (PNA) January 18-24, 2020

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National News

SSS: Ursula-stricken members, pensioners may now avail of Calamity Assistance Package QUEZON CITY - The state-run Social Security System (SSS) on Friday said members and pensioners who were affected by Typhoon Ursula last December 2019 may now avail of the Calamity Assistance Package (CAP) which has a fund allocation of nearly P260 million.

SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Aurora C. Ignacio said more than 398,000 paying members and pensioners who were devastated by the onslaught of Typhoon Ursula in Visayas and MIMAROPA regions on Christmas Eve last year will benefit from the relief assistance package.

“It was devastating for our kababayans in the Visayas as they were hardly-hit by Typhoon Ursula during the holiday season. Hopefully, the CAP that we are currently offering will help them with their immediate financial needs,” Ignacio said.

Qualified SSS pensioners who are residing in calamity-stricken areas that are declared under the state of calamity by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council

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(NDRRMC) may avail the advance three-month pension while regularpaying SSS members may avail the calamity loan assistance, and Direct House Repair and Improvement Loan.

The areas declared by NDRRMC as under state of calamity were the provinces of Eastern Samar and Leyte as well as the municipalities of San Jose in Occidental Mindoro, Kalibo and Malay in Aklan, Libertad and Pandan in Antique, Sigma in Capiz, Carles and Concepcion in Iloilo, Madridejos in Cebu and Daram in Samar.

“Members and pensioners residing in other areas that may be declared

by NDRRMC as under state of calamity within the prescribed application period may also avail of the CAP,” Ignacio said.

January 18-24, 2020

National News

The CAP includes a loan program, which is different from the regular salary loan, where members are allowed to borrow up to P20,000 depending on their monthly salary credit as well as financial assistance to pensioners wherein they can advance three months of their monthly pension.

expenses on the part of memberborrowers, SSS waived the one percent service fee.

Applicants under the advance three-month pension, meanwhile, whose present address is different from the address in the SSS database should submit a barangay certification

Ignacio said the pension fund to prove that they reside in a declared allocated more than P259.48 million calamity area. for the CAP which can be broken down into P234.3 million for the loan The SSS Chief, however, clarified assistance while some P25.14 million for that members who still have outstanding the advance three-month pensions. loans under the Loan Restructuring Program (LRP) and previous CAPs, as

To qualify for SSS calamity well as those receiving pensions for total loans, members should have a home permanent disability and retirement, address or property in the affected and those who availed of the Pension areas and had paid a minimum of 36 Loan Program (PLP) are not qualified to monthly contributions wherein six of its avail of the calamity loan. have been paid within the 12-month period before the date of application.

Aside from the calamity loan, However, members who availed the SSS members with damaged homes can Loan Restructuring Program and those with final benefit claims, such as total also avail of the direct house repair permanent disability and retirement, and Improvement loan with six months moratorium in amortization and interest are excluded from the program. payments. Members can borrow up

“An additional requirement for to a maximum of P1 million under this applicants is that they must registered program. on the My.SSS facility to allow us to generate their billing letters accordingly especially during payments so, it will be automatically be posted under their account,� Ignacio added.

To qualify for direct house repair and improvement loan, the applicant must not be more than 60 years old and with at least 24 monthly contributions, of which three contributions were remitted

The calamity loan is payable in two within the last 12-month period prior to years in equal monthly installments with the month of filing the loan. an annual interest rate of 10 percent and one percent monthly penalty for Members and pensioners may late payments. To eliminate additional start to file their CAP applications today January 18-24, 2020

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National News until 14 April 2020 except for the Direct SSS branch, contact the SSS Call House Repair and Improvement Loan Center hotline at 1455, or send an which will run up to one year. email to member_relations@sss.gov.ph.

Application forms are downloadable

For more information, members from the SSS website at www.sss.gov. and pensioners can visit the nearest ph. (SSS)

PRRD’s net satisfaction rating soars to recordhigh ‘excellent’

By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos

MANILA - Public satisfaction with President Rodrigo Duterte’s work performance reached a fresh record-high in the September to December 2019 period, according to the latest survey released by pollster Social Weather Stations (SWS) on Monday.

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January 18-24, 2020

National News

The December 13 to 16 poll by SWS revealed that 82 percent of adult Filipinos are satisfied with Duterte’s performance, while only 10 percent are dissatisfied.

Only 8 percent could not say whether they are satisfied or not, SWS noted.

“Compared to September 2019, gross satisfaction with President Duterte rose by 4 points from 78 percent, gross undecided fell by 1 point from 9 percent, and gross dissatisfaction fell by 3 points from 13 percent,” the poll said.

The survey results yielded a net +64). satisfaction score of “excellent” +72, up The President’s net satisfaction also by seven points from September 2019’s rose among classes ABC (“excellent” “very good” +65. +76 to “excellent” +70), D (“excellent”

The poll results also showed the +72 from “very good” +66), and E President’s “new personal record that (“excellent” +71 from “very good” +57). surpassed the previous record ‘very

There was also an increased net good’ +68 in June 2019,” SWS said. satisfaction among men (“excellent”

The seven-point rise in Duterte’s +73 from “very good” +66) and women net satisfaction rating was due to (“excellent” +71 from “very good” +64), increases in Balance Luzon (“very good” as well as among age groups 18 to 24 +66 from “very good” +54), the Visayas (“excellent” +73 from “very good” +64), (“excellent” +69 from “excellent” +74), 25 to 37 (“very good” +67 from “very and Mindanao (“excellent” +81 from good” +64), 35 to 44 (“excellent” +78 “excellent” +76), combined with a from “very good” +63), 45 to 54 (“very steady score in Metro Manila (“very good” +64 from “very good” +63), and 55 and above (“excellent” +77 from good” +66). “very good” +68).

Net satisfaction with Duterte’s Duterte’s net satisfaction rating performance also rose by nine points in urban (“excellent” +75 from “very also rose by one to “excellent” from good” +66) and five points in rural areas “very good” among elementary school (“very good” +69 from “very good” (+78 from +60), high school graduates January 18-24, 2020

Caraga Infocus

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National News (+70 from +67), and college graduates 2016 and 52 percent in March 2017,” it (+73 from +67). added.

It stayed very good among non- 72% worry a ‘great deal’ about elementary school graduates, at +64 in Duterte’s health December, down by 1 point from +65 in September.

The poll also revealed that 72 percent of adult Filipinos expressed

52% expect Duterte’s all promises worry over the health of the 74-year-old fulfilled President.

The same SWS survey found that 52 percent of adult Filipinos are expecting the Chief Executive to fulfill “all or nearly all/most of his promises.”

A total of 25 percent worried a “great deal” while the other 47 percent are “somewhat worried.” Only 28 percent said they are not worried, with 13 percent being “not worried at all and

Respondents were asked: “In your the other 15 percent being “somewhat opinion, how many of the promises of not worried.”

President Rody Duterte can be fulfilled?

[All or nearly all of the promises, Most SWS the results were similar to of the promises, A few of the promises, June 2019 poll which showed that 74 Almost none or none of the promises])”. percent were worried and 26 percent were not worried about the President’s

A total of 16 percent expressed health. confidence that Duterte can live up to “all or nearly all” of his promises, The latest poll also bared that 61 36 percent said “most” promises will percent said Duterte’s state of health is be fulfilled, 42 percent believed only “a public matter, that is why the public a “few” will be carried out, while the should be informed of everything about remaining 5 percent answered “none this.” or almost none.”

Only 37 percent believed that

“The latest proportion of 52 the Chief Executive’s health condition percent expecting nearly all/most is a “private matter, that is why the of President Duterte’s promises to be public does not need to be informed fulfilled is 4 points above the 48 percent of everything about this.”

(13 percent all or nearly all, 35 percent most) in December 2018,” SWS said.

Around 1,200 adult Filipinos were interviewed using sampling error margins

“When first asked in June 2016, of ±3 percentage points for national 63 percent expected nearly all/most percentages, and ±6 percentage of his promises to be fulfilled, before it points each for Metro Manila, Balance declined to 56 percent in September Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. (PNA)

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Caraga Infocus

January 18-24, 2020

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