Caraga InFocus – January 26- February 1, 2019

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[ Contents

26 January -01 February 2019

Volume III, No. 24

P158-M infra projects in Caraga seen to propel growth on agri REGIONAL NEWS

MINDANAO NEWS

expansion, upgrading of 2 SoCot 7 TESDA chief visits Agusan provinces 28 P348-M hospitals underway Caraga’s outreach program reaches farto give 1.5K housing projects for 9 PNP flung community 29 Habitat Marawi IDPs 10 Lapeña vows to support TTIs in Caraga NATIONAL NEWS reminded to ‘toe the line’ on 11 DG Lapeña inaugurates ASSAT Admin Office 31 Establishments Manila Bay rehab pushes for improved, more efficient PROVINCIAL NEWS 33 Andanar gov’t communicators 13 Cabadbaran City wins best in health services 14 3 NPAs killed in AgNor 15 Immersion program for AgNor school approved turns over organic fertilizer processing 16 DAR center to AgNor farmers 18 ‘Juan Effect’ launched in Siargao 19 2 NPA terrorists killed in Surigao del Norte clash declares Dinagat Islands as 21 PDEA-Caraga drug-free province 23 DOH-Caraga recognizes best performing LGUs 24 2 rebels killed in Surigao Sur clash 25 DA turns over P21-M FMR in Trento, AgSur

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News Briefs 477 TESDA trainees received their Certificates of Completion during the Graduation Ceremony of TESDA Skills Training Programs attended by TESDA Secretary Isidro S. Lapena at the Naliyagan Covered Court, Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur.

In observance of the National Cancer Consciousness Week, we urge everyone to undergo check-up and have the vital organs of your body tested. As the old saying goes, “prevention is better than cure”.

PRESIDENT RODRIGO R. DUTERTE HAS DECLARED THE LAST MONDAY OF JANUARY OF EVERY YEAR AS A SPECIAL WORKING HOLIDAY IN OBSERVANCE OF THE #NATIONALBIBLEDAY.

Popcom executive director Usec. Juan Antonio Perez III calls on the local govt. units to continuously support the population and development program of the government. He is hoping that with the partnership of the Center for Health Devt., NEDA and the Commission on Population and Devt., the best development of the country will be achieved.

Cover Story

P158-M infra projects in Ca seen to propel growth on a

By Fretcher Magatao

B

UTUAN CITY - The Department of Agriculture-Philippine Rural Development Project (DA-PRDP) in Caraga Region in partnership with local government units recently breaks ground with two infrastructure projects totaling Php158 million.

These are the construction of the Php50 Million Communal Irrigation System (CIS) in Barangay Poblacion, Rosario, Agusan del Sur and the construction of the 3.62-kilometer Farmto-Market Road (FMR) in Barangay R.E. Ecleo, San Jose, Province of Dinagat

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Islands amounting to Php108 million.

The construction of 4.76-km Main Canal with structures of the Limbatangan CIS in Rosario has a length of 4,961 meters with 23 units of canal structures to serve 264 hectares

araga agri

of rice area in Barangays Upper Laguna FMR will Libuac, Poblacion and benefit 1,571 farming and Tagbayan. fishing households in San Jose, Dinagat Island and

The said project is seen would allow better access to increase rice production to and from the agricultural from 3 metric tons to 4 production areas, public metric tons per hectare for market and processing conventional rice farming centers, and government and 3 metric tons to 3.6 social service centers. metric tons per hectare for natural farming. In addition, The FMR traverses the a total of 1,623 households barangays of Ma-atas and or 8,226 individuals would Sta. Rita and connects to benefit from the project Brgy. Laguna where it ends at after its completion.

Sitio Upper Laguna. It will link to the national road where

“We thank the the proposed cassava buying government for giving us station and processing center this project. I believe that would be located. this intervention would enable us to expand our Both groundbreaking production area,” said Jimmy activities were followed Magbanua, Vice Chairperson by a pre-construction of Limbatangan Farmers conference participated Irrigators’ Association. by the stakeholders of the project such as farmers,

On the other hand, barangay officials, and the the construction of R. Ecleo– Barangay Implementing

Team (BIT), municipal implementing units, PRDP regional counterparts and the contractor themselves.

Purpose of which is to discuss the different aspects of the project and the role of each stakeholder that would ensure the smooth and proper implementation of the project.

and maintenance of the project,” said Infrastructure Component Head Engr.

Rene Morales.

DA-PRDP has been in partnership with the Local Government Units and private sector to provide key infrastructures and facilities to raise incomes, productivity, and

“We’re briefing the stakeholders competitiveness of the farmers’ and to empower and capacitate them fisherfolk’s associations in targeted in the community to become active areas. (DA Caraga/PIA Caraga) and viable partners in the operation

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REGIONAL NEWS

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Regional News I Empowering Communities

26 January - 1 February 2019

TESDA chief visits Agusan provinces

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY – Secretary Isidro S. Lapeña of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) on Wednesday visited the two Agusan provinces as part of its commitment to visit and see for himself the actual situation in the regional offices of the agency.

From the Bancasi Airport where he arrived at 6:00 a.m., he immediately proceeded to the Northern Mindanao School of Fisheries (NMSF) where he made site visitations of the fishponds, fish incubation and hatchery centers.

During the interaction with the NMSF employees, the official emphasized that his visit is a venue for the employees to express their opinions whenever there are certain issues and concerns that they want to bring to the top management.

“Ngayon,

ako

na

po

lumalapit sa inyo upang malaman ko kung ano ang mga issues and concerns na kailangan n’yong ipaabot sa management. (Now, I am getting near to you for me to know the issues and concerns you want to tell the management),” Sec. Lapeña said.

From NMSF, the TESDA chief ang heeded towards the Agusan del Norte

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inaugurate the newly-constructed Php 3.8-million Administration Building of the TESDA administered school.

The building is a product of the training-cum-production scheme of ASSAT and TESDA-Agusan del Sur Provincial Office.

After the inauguration, Lapeña attended a luncheon meeting with the TESDA-Agusan del Sur stakeholders.

The meeting served as a venue for the stakeholders to raise issues and concerns pertaining to the implementation of Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) not only in the province of Agusan del Sur but as well as the whole Caraga Region.

Provincial Office and the Regional Office in downtown here to meet and interact with the employees.

The official enjoined the employees to be at their best to better serve the Caraganons.

Last stop of the Secretary’s visit is the Mass Graduation Ceremony of TESDA Skills Training Programs held in Datu Lipus Macapandong Cultural Center in Patin-ay, Agusan del Sur with a total of 477 graduates composed of trainees from the Philippine National Police (PNP), Substance Use Recovery and Enlightenment (SURE), Former Rebels, Regional Rehabilitation Center for Youth (RRCY), Philippine Army, Alternative Learning System (ALS), Indigenous Peoples, and Informal Workers and Unemployed.

“Gawin natin ang ating mga trabaho upang mapag-serbisyuhan ng mabuti an gating mga kapwang nangangailangan ng ating tulong. (We have to do our work so that we can serve well our fellow countrymen who

During the ceremony, key officials need our help),” the Secretary said. of the different government agencies

After the interaction with the in Caraga Region expressed their employees, the party went to Agusan continuous support and commitment to del Sur School of Arts and Trades the programs initiated by TESDA in the (ASSAT) in Patin-ay, Agusan del Sur to region. (TESDA Caraga/PIA Caraga)

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Regional News I Empowering Communities

PNP Caraga’s outreach program reaches far-flung community

BUTUAN CITYSeveral free services from the government have reached the far-flung area of Brgy. Taodoy, Magallanes, Agusan del Norte though the community outreach program of Police Regional Office 13 Tuesday.

Free medical and dental checkup, circumcision, haircut, medicines, food packs, feeding, school supplies and slippers, eyeglasses, and tooth extraction were availed by the local populace.

“The government is always working for you and wants to see our people live in an environment conducive for peace and development.

These basic services are intended for you from your police force,” RD Cruz

Chief Supt.

Gilberto Cruz, highlighted. (PNP Caraga/PIA Caraga) Regional Director of Philippine National Police (PNP) Caraga, personally led the activity which was also attended

by Senior Supt. Ramir Perlito Perlas, Provincial Director of Agusan del Norte Provincial Police Office, teachers and barangay officials of Taod-oy.

Outstanding performances from the Regional Mobile Force Battalion’s Tagahadlang Band and the ‘Laro ng Lahi’ had entertained the children, parents, and even senior citizens.

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Lapeña vows to support TTIs in Caraga

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY – Following the historic visit of Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Secretary Isidro S. Lapeña on Wednesday in the two Agusan Provinces, the official vowed to support the TESDA Technology Institutions (TTIs) in Caraga.

The development came after visiting the two TTIs in the region, meeting and interacting with the faculty and staff, and saw the situation in as far as upgrading of facilities is concerned.

TESDA-Agusan del Norte Provincial Office, TESDA-Caraga Regional Office, and Agusan del Sur School of Arts and Trades (ASSAT), the Secretary said he is also pushing for policies that promote the welfare of the employees of TESDA.

Lapeña said “like in other regions where he has visited already, the TTIs “You, the employees, are the have potential to help the Filipino people backbone of the agency. It is but fitting develop their skills.” that you will also enjoy the welfare that are due for you. I will discuss matters

“You have made a significant pertaining to employees’ welfare to contribution in honi your Union – the TESDA Association of Concerned Employees (ACE),” he

ng the skills of the trainees in your added. region and I have seen potential in the delivery of instructions, as well as the The secretary’s visit is part of his geographical setting you have… So, commitment to go to the grassroots of the during my stint as your Secretary, I will agency’s organization and experience support you in as far as improving the personally what were the actual facilities that you have nowhere in your situations happening in the regional, school,” he said. provincial, and TESDA administered schools, in support to the agenda of

Meanwhile, during the interaction the national government specifically with the employees of the Northern “inclusive growth.” (TESDA Caraga/PIA Mindanao School of Fisheries (NMSF), Caraga)

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Regional News I Empowering Communities

DG Lapeña inaugurates ASSAT Admin Office

BUTUAN CITY - Director General, Sec. Isidro S. Lapeña of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) on Wednesday inaugurated the Php3.8 million Administration Building of the Agusan del Sur School of Arts and Trades (ASSAT).

TESDA Provincial Director Braulio P. Dela Peña, Jr. said the newlyconstructed building is a product of the training-cum-production scheme of the trainees in the Masonry and Carpentry NC II. “This building is one of the products of the training-cum-production of the trainees of the school,” he said.

have to continue with this scheme,” he said.

Prior to the inauguration, the Secretary visited the Northern Mindanao School of Fisheries (NMSF), TESDA-Agusan del Norte Provincial Office, and TESDA-Caraga Regional Office in this city and have the

Lapeña lauded the leadership of opportunity to talk and discuss with Dir. Florencio F. Sunico, Jr. for coming the employees on the issues and up with a project that gave benefit not concerns that need to be addressed. only for the school but more importantly to the trainees because they will be Later in the afternoon, the given a venue to apply what they have Secretary was the guest of honor learned in the hours of training. during the Joint Graduation Ceremony of TESDA trainees in different skills

“The training-cum-production training programs where a total of both give an advantage to the 477 trainees received their Certificate school and much more to the trainees of Training Completion from TESDAbecause they will be exposed to the Agusan del Sur. (TESDA-13/PIAactual work in construction, thus, we Agusan del Sur)

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

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Cabadbaran City wins best in health services

By Nora L. Molde

CABADBARAN CITY - The City of Cabadbaran, Agusan del Norte has been awarded as the Best Performing City besting five other cities in Caraga Region.

During the recent awarding ceremony in Butuan City, the Department of Health (DOH) Caraga region has recognized the city because of its outstanding achievement in the 2017 Local Government Unit (LGU) Scorecard Assessment and for the continued contribution to better health outcomes of the city.

City Administrator Rene Retiquiz received the LGU Scorecard, check worth Php75,000 and the LGU Scorecard Result during the awarding ceremony.

Also, they were recognized because of having responsive health systems, equitable health care financing and for the overall efforts of the city for the attainment of Formula One Plus goal as implemented and monitored by the DOH.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to recognize the efforts of our health workers, the men and women of our City Health Office, headed by our City Health Officer Dr. Jose Zaldy Secote, who work more than enough just to respond the needs

Retiquiz is thankful to the DOH for the awards they received and for the support extended to the LGU. Retequiz also recognized the efforts of the city health workers.

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26 January - 1 February 2019

requirement for sustainable development,” Retiquiz said.

“This only shows that we are doing something right from the previous up to Cabadbaran City’s ultimate this present administration,” he added. vision is to have an advanced, wellstaffed and seamless health system

Retiquiz has also recognized the that will focus on prevention, and make significant support of their partner- healthcare accessible to all, he added. stakeholders, the provincial government thru the Provincial Health Office and the The second Best Performing City DOH for the technical inputs and even award was received by Tandag City financial support extended to the city in Surigao del Sur; the third place was to advance and foster quality health received by Surigao City in Surigao services to the constituents. del Norte; while the fourth, fifth and sixth place awards were received by

“The city shall continue to Bislig City, Surigao del Sur; Bayugan consider health services as our top City in Agusan del Sur and Butuan City, priority. We are a strong advocate that respectively. (NCLM/PIA Agusan del a healthy community is a fundamental Norte)

3 NPAs killed in AgNor By 1Lt Edmar C. Colagong

CABADBARAN CITY Three New People’s Army (NPA) terrorists died in an encounter with the 29th Infantry (MATATAG) Battalion (291B) at Sitio Patagon, Barangay Anticala, Butuan City on Sunday, Jan. 27.

Through the continuous effort of that NPA terrorists are conducting Post Community Support Program (CSP), extortion and threat in the area. government troops of 291B received information from concerned civilian The 29IB immediately conducted

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Provincial News I Empowering Communities

security patrol that resulted to an encounter with an undetermined number of NPA Terrorists under Toto Anub alias Dongkoy/Makoy at the hinterlands of Brgy. Anticala, Butuan City.

Munda, 291B Commanding Officer.

“We strongly condemn the NPAs’ action and this is an indication that we have the support of the people and it shows that the people are getting desperate of the NPAs presence in their community. We will continue to protect the communities and their right to live peacefully,” said Lt. Col. Warren

“This is a gesture to show that Philippine Army respects Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law. Nevertheless, the 29IB will continue its thrust to promote peace and development in the area,” LTC Munda said. (CMO Officer 29IB, PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)

“We extend our sincerest condolence to the family of the NPAs. It is clear that NPA terrorists are not mindful of their comrades, leaving their

The three dead bodies of the dead bodies during clashes with our NPAs Sandatahang Yunit Propaganda troops,” he added.

21, Guerilla Front 21 of the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee LTC Munda also said that the 291B (NEMRC) are yet to be identified. One under 402 Infantry Brigade and PNP AK47, one M16, and one M16 with M203 counterparts will ensure that the dead were among those recovered firearms bodies will be identified and delivered in the encounter site. Bloodstains in the to their respective families, even though withdrawal routes of the terrorist NPAs the government considers the NPA as a are still being tracked in the meantime. terrorist group.

Immersion program for AgNor school approved

By Jessica O. Mellejor

LAS NIEVES - The local government unit of Agusan del Norte is ready for work immersion program for the Lingayao National High School of the municipality of Las Nieves, this province, which is one of the requirements for senior high school students before they graduate.

Based on the committee meeting of the Committee on Education and Culture, chaired by Provincial Board Member Aquino W. Gambe, it was

found that the Lingayao National High School was interested to partner with the local government of Agusan del Norte concerning their senior high school

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students to do the work immersion provide the students with necessary program under the management of guidance, technical assistance and the province. relevant work exposures aligned with their fields of specialization.

Under the said program, the work immersion program is one of the Based on the recommendation of requirements of the Senior High School the said committee, the Sangguniang wherein qualified students will undergo Panlalawigan of Agusan del Norte training exposures prior to graduation authorized the Provincial Governor Ma. in order to be adequately familiar with Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba actual work, to enhance their technical to sign the Memorandum of Agreement knowledge and skills thereby obtaining (MOA) between the provincial work experience and actual training. government and the Lingayao National High School for smooth and proper

The provincial government implementation of the said program. agreed to accept students from (LGU Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Lingayao National High School and to Norte)

DAR turns over organic fertilizer processing center to AgNor farmers

By Gil E. Miranda

KITCHARAO - The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) of Agusan del Norte, in partnership with the Local Government of Kitcharao, formally handed over the Organic Fertilizer Processing Center funded under DAR’s Village Level Farm Focused Enterprise Development (VLFED) project held at Barangay Jaliobong, Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte on January 25, 2019.

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The recipient, Jaliobong Masipag Farmers Farmers Organization Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Cooperative (JAMAFO ARB Coop), is one of the DAR’s assisted Agrarian Reform Beneficiary Organizations (ARBOs) in the province.

Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer (PARPO II) Andre B. Atega, CESO V, said the agency allocated Php300,000.00 for the construction of the organic fertilizer processing center.

Atega encouraged the group to work hard and ensure positive gains of the project to reinforce the current agribusiness to become one of the organic fertilizer producers in the province.

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The JAMAFO ARB Coop, meanwhile, shared location site equivalent to Php30,000.00 and Labor Equity amounted to Php110,000.00 as counterpart.

Punong Barangay Edwin Montante and Chair of JAMAFO Mr. Regor Vidal expressed commendation to DAR for the support as it will benefit the organization in raising agricultural productivity as well as to its members and the community.

This project, under the administration of President Duterte, aims to enhance the enterprise and livelihood activities of the agrarian reform beneficiaries at the community level. (DAR Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)

“Niining inyong ka aktibo ug panaghiusa, maoy timailhan nga adunay kahayag aron moasenso ang inyong kapunungan (It is understandable that your active part and unity is a sign that there is light leading to improve your organization),” he said.

“It is nice to see that along with your unity and cooperation, despite the limited budgetary resources allocated, you met your project possible,” he added.

The Kitcharao local government headed by Mayor Aristotle E. Montante provided in-kind 105 cubic meter embankment equivalent of Php90,000.00 for the said project.

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‘Juan Effect’ launched in Siargao

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY – Philippine carrier Cebu Pacific Air in partnership with the Department of Tourism (DOT) has launched its “Juan Effect” Program on January 11, 2019, in General Luna, Siargao Island.

Juan Effect Program aims to visitor numbers, ease the negative mitigate the impact of tourist arrivals on impact of tourism on the island, and the environment. balance the social and environmental concerns with its economic benefits.

It also aims to engage travelers and local stakeholders in raising “Colorful murals and signs made awareness among Filipinos about of used surfboards have been put up their responsibilities as tourists and prior to the peak surfing season to help encourages them to make a difference educate tourists and local residents,” by changing one daily habit.

Tena said.

The launching was led by DOT Secretary Bernadette Romulo Puyat, Cebu Pacific Passenger Sales and Distribution Director Arlene Tena, Surigao del Norte 1st Congressional District Representative Francisco Bingo Matugas, DENR Undersecretary Benny Antiporda, DOT Assistant Secretary Howard Lance Uyking, and other government officials.

DOT Sec. Berna Puyat, in her remarks, said the pilot module of Juan Effect project will be the models and yardsticks for sustainable tourism practices and action plans of the DOT.

She said that the DOT’s mandate is centered on creating a culture of sustainable tourism, a unique mandate to both sell and preserve, to ensure that the beauty of our country remains,

According to Tena, the Juan Effect while people get to enjoy a unique program is a call for all stakeholders Philippine travel experience. to come together, collaborate and cooperate to ensure that the tourism Puyat also said no business industry progresses sustainably. ventures can flourish on profit alone if it is not sustainable in itself, then, it cannot

She said that since the launching make any significant contribution to its of Juan Effect in August 2018, they have industry. been working with the local government units in the island and the whole “Let us start the year 2019 right province to spur concerted action to by committing ourselves to our driving properly manage the ever-increasing principle of sustainability. Instilling

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this culture of tourism would entail a paradigm shift among all of us in the public and private sectors alike, to change how we think business, to care more about our environment, our natural gems and our tourist attractions,” said Puyat.

On his part, Rep. Matugas encouraged everyone to keep Siargao clean and treat the natural environment with love and respect because the failure of the system would ultimately threaten the subsistence of human beings.

He said everyone can contribute if each of us can be more conscious to save the environment and willing to take some simple steps to care and preserved the natural beauty of the island for sustainable tourism.

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Meanwhile, DENR undersecretary Benny Antiporda has pledged to assist and provide technical assistance to the solid waste management plans of the islands.

“We are committed to help local government units in the preparation and implementation of their solid waste management plans which is very important in ensuring that there will be an efficient management solid waste in each municipality of Siargao,” Antiporda said.

The said launching was wrapped up with a ceremonial turn over of motorbikes “Fat Bikes” for Tourist Police in the Municipal Police Station of General Luna from the Office of the First Congressional District of Surigao del Norte. (SDR/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

2 NPA terrorists killed in Surigao del Norte clash By 1Lt. Ken Enciso

SURIGAO CITY - Two Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army terrorists (CNTs) were found dead in an encounter with the troops of 30th Infantry Battalion (30IB) in the outskirts of Sitio Little Baguio, Brgy. Payapag, Bacuag, Surigao del Norte on January 25, 2019.

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The troops of 30IB conducted security operations in response to a report from a concerned citizen on the presence of NPAs in the said sitio. As they arrived in the area, they encountered an estimated 30 fully armed terrorists of Guerilla Front 16 (GF16) of North Eastern Mindanao Regional Command (NEMRC) led by Alias JD/Bern.

The firefight lasted for one and a half hours. After which, the CNTs scampered in different directions and resulted to zero casualty on the government side while a female and a male CNTs in their 20s were found dead in the encounter site. More of them are believed to be wounded in the clash as stains of blood were visible in the withdrawal route.

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of these terrorists. We have coordinated with the local government unit and our PNP counterparts to help us find their families and ensure that proper burial will be given,” said Lieutenant Colonel Allen Raymund Tomas, commanding officer of 30IB.

Moreover, the army troops also overran the CNTs’ lair that can accommodate 50 persons and recovered one AK47 rifle, one M16 rifle, one landmine with 100 meters electrical wire, three magazines of

The cadavers were brought at M16, 10 magazines of AK47, assorted the Bacuag Funeral Homes and were medicines, personal belongings, and properly turned over to barangay subversive documents. officials and Philippine National Police Brigadier General Franco Nemesio (PNP) personnel for proper disposition Gacal, commander of 402nd Brigade, and identification. said the locals’ timely information

“We extend our deepest regarding the presence of CNTs in the sympathies to the bereaved families of area had helped the government troops the dead NPA terrorists. It is tragic that in preempting possible NPA atrocities up to this moment, there are still people in connection with the celebration of who are blinded by the failed ideologies the 50th NPA founding anniversary in March 2019.

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“This is a great sign that the people are no longer allowing these terrorists to stay in there peaceful community. Rest assured that the Philippine Army will continue to take aggressive actions in order to stop the NPAs from committing crimes against the people,” said Gacal.

Major General Ronald Villanueva, 4th Infantry Division commander, also said the units under the 4ID have never stopped going after the NPA terrorists in their area of responsibility.

“We have not declared any suspension of operations even during the last holiday season and we are

Provincial News I Empowering Communities determined to end the deception and terrorism brought by Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) – NPA – National Democratic Front (NDF) or CNN in the communities,” he said.

On the other hand, members of the terrorist group who came to the realization that they are just being exploited are given the opportunity to go back to the folds of the law and return to the mainstream society. They can avail of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) being offered by the government,” Villanueva added. (30IB, Phil. Army/ VLG/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

PDEA-Caraga declares Dinagat Islands as drug-free province

By Venus L. Garcia

SURIGAO CITY - After the conduct of thorough assessment and validation by members of the provincial oversight committee on barangay drug-clearing program, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) - Caraga has declared the Dinagat Islands as the first drug-free province in Caraga region.

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According to PDEA-Caraga regional director Aileen Lovitos, the province, consisting of seven municipalities and 100 barangays was found to be compliant with the parameters set forth in declaring a drug-free area.

Lovitos clarified that based on the parameters set by the dangerous drug board, the barangays can be declared as drug-free for the non-availability of drug supply; absence of a drug as the second drug-free province in den, pusher and user; and absence Caraga. of clandestine drug laboratory and chemical warehouse or marijuana

PDEA-Caraga is continuously cultivation site. monitoring and validating the

Lovitos further said that the personalities included in the watch local government units must have an list. And if confirmed to have been existing anti-drug campaign programs; involved in the illegal drug activities, an community-based rehabilitation anti-illegal drug operation will be done center; and education awareness to apprehend them. program as part of the requisite to be recognized as a drug-free community.

At present, PDEA-Caraga is intensifying its campaign against

“The declaration of a certain illegal drugs and even increasing the area as drug-cleared does not mean manpower resource with its ongoing that we have to stop from there. The recruitment of drug enforcement monitoring and campaign against officers. illegal drugs should continue because if there is resurgence, if there are Lovitos gladly announced also those who would be into illegal drugs during the recent conduct of 4th again, and if there is non-compliance Regional Inter-Agency Committee on to the drug-clearing protocols, then Anti-Illegal Drugs Coordinating Group these will be the determining factors of drug infestation recurrence in the (RICG) Meeting that PDEA-Caraga, with the support of its partner stakeholders, barangay,� Lovitos added. has topped in the entire country in

In 2018, the town of Tubod in terms of barangay drug clearing Surigao del Norte has been declared program implementation wherein over as drug-cleared municipality while the 600 barangays have already been ceremonial declaration is also set this declared as drug-cleared. (VLG/PIAyear for the province of Surigao del Sur Surigao del Norte)

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DOH-Caraga recognizes best performing LGUs

By Venus L. Garcia

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte - The Department of HealthCenter for Health Development (DOH-CHD) Caraga awarded local government units (LGUs) in Caraga region that shared and worked hard in the delivery of basic health services and implementation of health programs.

The province of Surigao del Norte was recognized as the best performing province in the region and received a plaque, a monetary reward worth P100,000 and a mobile tablet.

The province of Agusan del Sur came in second, Agusan del Norte was third while the province of Surigao del Sur came in fourth, followed by Dinagat Islands where all received a certificate of recognition.

Meanwhile, Tubod in Surigao del Norte emerged as the best performing municipality enabling them to get a

plaque and a check worth P50,000.

Cabadbaran City was also declared as the best performing city obtaining a plaque and P75,000 check reward.

DOH-CHD Caraga regional director Jose Llacuna, Jr. lauded and appreciated these LGUs for their genuine commitment in the performance of duties in the communities and for forging strategies for local health systems.

“We sincerely thank you for your efforts and we exhort you to continue doing the same function as health implementers. We can assure that we

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hospital concerns of Surigao del Norte said that the advocacy and health care initiatives shall continue in their province so that more people will benefit from it.

Llacuna added that the awards and recognition are given in order to “We will unceasingly work and leverage LGU participation in achieving continue with what has been started universal health care. and will really consider the integral components of this LGU scorecard

Dr. Arlene Felizarta, provincial as our basis and guide for whatever health officer and assistant provincial improvements we intend to make,” administrator for health services and Felizarta said. (VLG/JPG/PIA-Surigao

2 rebels killed in Surigao Sur clash SAN AGUSTIN, Surigao del Sur - Two communist terrorists died in an encounter with the government troops in San Agustin town, Surigao del Sur last January 24, 2019.

The operating troops under 401st Brigade were conducting security operations in the hinterlands of Sitio Kabulohan, Barangay Buhisan in San Agustin town when more or less 10 NPA terrorists fired at them prompting them to return fire.

anti-personnel mines and ammunition, subversive documents and other war materials.

According to Brigadier General Andres Centino, the security operations against the CPP-NPA Terrorists (CNTs) in the boundary of Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur started since

The firefight lasted for about five December 2018 after they abducted minutes, after which the armed group the Cafgu Active Auxiliaries (CAA) and scampered in different directions. two soldiers in Barangay New Tubigon

The 10 New Peoples Army (NPA) in Sibagat, Agusan del Sur. terrorists were believed to be members The NPAs took the CAAs and of Sub-Region Committee Southland, soldiers and used them as human North Eastern Mindanao Regional shields until now. The security operations Committee led by Felizardo Valdez accordingly, intend to go after the also known as “Ado.” armed groups responsible for the

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abduction.

The troops also seized an M14 rifle, Centino said the two cadavers

26 January - 1 February 2019

Provincial News I Empowering Communities

are still in the area as of this time.

as possible and turn-over them to the Philippine National Police and

“The operating troops were not Barangay Officials for identification able to immediately extricate them and proper disposition. We extend our due to bad weather,” he said. condolences to the families of these two NPAs,” Centino added. (401st

“The soldiers will exert their best Brigade, PA/PIA-Surigao del Sur) efforts to extricate them as soon

DA turns over P21-M FMR in Trento, AgSur

By Fretcher Magatao

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur - The Department of AgriculturePhilippine Rural Development Project (DA-PRDP) has recently turnedover the completed construction of 2.7-kilometer Sitio Gasa to Algon Farm-to-Market Road (FMR) amounting to Php21.1 million to the farmers and residents of the municipality of Trento, this province.

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Provincial News I Empowering Communities

The concrete road does not only support the rubber and palm oil industries in the municipality but also boost the production of other highvalue crops like mangosteen, banana, and cacao in the area.

26 January - 1 February 2019

will surely bring better production in this part of Trento,” Monteagudo said.

Barangay Chairperson Doreen Peñaloga recalled that most farmers were hopeless for the realization of the concrete road since there were farm

“No more hassle. The farm-to- owners before who were not willing to market road has changed our farming donate a part of their land for the road attitudes and encourage us to produce right of way. more,” said Razel Altieza, a banana farmer in Barangay Algon.

“It was really a struggle on our part as barangay officials to encourage

Altieza said that the common some of the landowners to donate a commodities in the area before were part of their area for the road, but with just rice and corn when the road was the help of the residents and PRDP’s narrow and muddy every time it rains. processes in dealing with concerns like this, the problem was eventually

“Farmers before were tired of solved,” said Peñaloga. expanding because of the hassle and big cost in transporting their The concrete road connects from produce. Now, people can see various Barangay Poblacion to Sitio Gaza and commodities in our area. Farmers has paved the way for the opening of are inspired to expand and produce the road to Barangay Tudela. “This road more because they can now save really helps a lot not just to the farmers, a big amount in transporting their but also for the easy transportation of commodities to the market,” Altieza the neighboring barangays in going in said. and out of this area,” Peñaloga added.

DA Regional Executive Director Abel James I. Monteagudo recognized the good attitude and hard work of the farmers in utilizing their farm areas.

DA-PRDP partners with the local government units and the private sector to provide key infrastructures and facilities to raise incomes, productivity, and competitiveness of the farmers

“I believe the farmers here are and farmers’ associations in targeted industrious in utilizing their areas. areas. (RPCO-Caraga/PIA-Agusan del Various crops are everywhere. This FMR Sur)

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MINDANAO NEWS

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Mindanao News I Empowering Communities

26 January - 1 February 2019

P348-M expansion, upgrading of 2 SoCot hospitals underway

By Allen Estabillo

GERAL SANTOS CITY - Construction work formally started on Thursday for the PHP348-million expansion and upgrading of two major public hospitals in South Cotabato province.

Funded under the 2018 national budget, the project involves the construction of a new four-story building for the South Cotabato Provincial Hospital and a three-story building for the Upper Valley Community Hospital (UVCH) in Surallah town.

and South Cotabato 2nd District Rep. Ferdinand Hernandez pushed for the funding of about PHP148 million for the new UVCH building.

In a press conference, Ejercito said he pushed for the construction of the provincial hospital’s new building after

Senator Joseph Victor Ejercito, personally witnessing the overcrowding who graced the groundbreaking rites, problems at the facility during a visit in said the implementation of the projects 2013. was the result of “collaborative works” between the Senate, the House of Due to the area’s growing Representatives and the provincial population, the senator noted that the government of South Cotabato. hospital has been operating beyond its capacity and the situation has affected

As chair of the Senate committee its overall services. on health, Ejercito facilitated the approval of the PHP200-million budget “We saw patients then staying for the provincial hospital’s expansion. on the aisles and on the corridors. I remember that and resolved to help

Deputy Speaker for Mindanao address the problem,” he said.

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Mindanao News I Empowering Communities

26 January - 1 February 2019

The Department of Health (DOH), the project’s implementer, said the provincial hospital building is due for completion in 580 days while the UVCH’s new building is set to be completed early next year.

Based on its development plan, South Cotabato Gov. Daisy Avance-Fuentes said the new building’s ground floor will be used for the administrative offices and the facility’s X-ray room.

The governor said they have requested for additional funding of PHP150 million next year for the completion of the building and purchase of the needed equipment.

President Rodrigo R. Duterte signed in October last year Republic Act No. 11102, which provided for the conversion and development of UVCH in Barangay Dajay, Surallah into the Soccsksargen General Hospital.

Aside from the PHP148-million

Fuentes said the second level new building, Hernandez said another will host another ward while the third project worth PHP50 million is undergoing level will have private rooms for paying construction within the five-hectare patients. hospital compound. (PNA)

Habitat to give 1.5K housing projects for Marawi IDPs

By Ercel Maandig

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - The United Nations Habitat is set to give 1,500 housing projects for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Marawi City, almost two years after the siege that left the city in ruins.

UN Habitat Country Programme Manager Christopher Rollo said the groundbreaking ceremony for the PHP500-million housing project will be on February 28.

access roads and drainage system.

Just this month, UN Habitat officials, along with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and local officials, have completed

Rollo said the IDPs will be identified the identification of the 1,500 recipient based on data provided by the local families. government unit whose houses were totally damaged by the war.

Rollo said a steering committee is now conducting orientation and

He said the housing project organizing of the homeowners is funded by the government of association, whose members approved Japan, and includes livelihood and the house designs themselves. (PNA) infrastructure components, such as

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NATIONAL NEWS

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26 January - 1 February 2019

National News I Empowering Communities

Establishments reminded to ‘toe the line’ on Manila Bay rehab

By Azer Parrocha

MANILA - Establishments along Manila Bay must comply with environmental laws, Malacañang reminded Thursday amid the bay’s ongoing cleanup.

“Those who are not compliant with regulations would have to toe the line,” Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said in a Palace briefing.

Following concerns raised by Makabayan lawmakers that informal settlers who will be displaced by the cleanup were not consulted, Panelo also assured that their welfare will be

Earlier, the Laguna Lake taken into consideration.

Development Authority (LLDA) issued cease and desist orders against “The government will always look three establishments for discharging at the welfare of everybody affected wastewater directly to the Manila Bay. there,” he said.

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National News I Empowering Communities

Panelo also urged Makabayan lawmakers who want the cleanup postponed until a rehab plan is published to first wait for the results of the Manila Bay rehabilitation.

26 January - 1 February 2019

iconic bay kicked off with thousands of volunteers from various sectors participating.

The Manila Bay rehabilitation happened three months after the

“Ganun din naman sila doon sa government completed its six-month Boracay di ba? O e natapos na ang rehabilitation of Boracay. (PNA) Boracay okay naman sa kanila (They were like that during the Boracay cleanup, right? It’s done now and it looks like it’s fine with them),” Panelo said.

Panelo said that President Rodrigo R. Duterte would be “pleased” by Manila Bay’s ongoing rehab noting that it was the President’s directive in the first place.

“He (Duterte) will be pleased to know that it has started because he has been saying that should start immediately. That was his directive to (Environment) Sec. Roy (Cimatu),” Panelo said.

“When you see your objective being done, siyempre (of course) he’ll be pleased,” he added.

Meanwhile, Panelo reminded both national and local government agencies and officials not to claim credit for the bay’s cleanup.

“Sabi ni Presidente (The President said), everybody should be given credit. Nobody can claim credit for anything that is an achievement of this administration,” Panelo said.

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On Jan. 27, the rehab of the

26 January - 1 February 2019

National News I Empowering Communities

Andanar pushes for improved, more efficient gov’t communicators

By EJ Roque

MANILA - Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar on Thursday reiterated the need for government communicators to effectively convey the message of the government to the people.

“Through media, words may stand or collapse, inspire or diffuse the already existing patina of the people’s perception,” Andanar said in a workshop with government communicators in Malacañang.

Andanar attributed the high satisfaction and trust ratings being enjoyed by President Rodrigo R. Duterte to the good work of government communicators.

Andanar urged government communicators to further improve and expand their craft.

“Let’s go beyond Metro Manila.

You have all the resources in your hands, more resources than any private companies. If we begin to think as one government and one voice, it will be easier for us to communicate the message of the President,” he said.

Andanar said he has been going

“You are doing your jobs right. Bakit around the country to personally meet alam ng mga sinurvey na maganda local media workers and to hear their yung ginagawa ni Presidente? different concerns.

Malalaman lang naman nila yun (Why Andanar, a former media do people know the good programs of the President? They will only know that) practitioner himself, earlier said his if you’re dishing out the right news,” lifelong advocacies are strengthening media interests through policies, media Andanar said. engagement, and media solutions.

“Words can transport us to that level of achievement that the very words of our President have been repeatedly expressed,” he added.

Duterte’s approval rating is at 81 percent in the Pulse Asia survey conducted in December while his trust rating is at 76 percent. (PNA)

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