Caraga InFocus – July 29-August 04, 2017

CONTENTS

Volume 1, No. 70 29 July - 04 August 2017

ASEAN NEWS

9 11

‘Collaborate, communicate’ to keep ASEAN moving “A well-informed Filipino is an empowered Filipino,” says PIA official Feature

REGIONAL NEWS

14 17 18

CARAT Expo 2017 scales up for increased productivity in Caraga region POPCOM’s 100Mth babies turn 3 2 Caraga cops cited for good community relations

PROVINCIAL NEWS

20 21 22 23 24 25 26 29 30

Surigao Norte mentees complete accounting, financial management seminar

COVER Payanig sa Bislig: A drill to prepare for the ‘Big One’

4Ps beneficiaries attend consumer education seminar in Surigao Norte Dinagat Islands guv leads groundbreaking of Women’s center Army to public: cooperate with security forces AFP chief graces 36IB’s founding anniv in SurSur

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Former Cong. Aquino named father of Agusan del Norte Agusan del Norte entrepreneurs: There is more to techno upgrading in DOST DTI reorients LPCC-Prosperidad on consumer-related laws AgSur KMME mentees study human resource & organization management for their business

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34

18

36

20

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HEALTH NEWS

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Iron-fortified rice is best for school children

MINDANAO NEWS

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MinDA, LCP to tap local govts in rebuilding Marawi

MinDA chief urges Marawi grads to keep hopes high for Mindanao

NATIONAL NEWS

38 40

DepEd receives educational assistance from USAID Duterte extends passport and drivers’ license validity; provides free public internet access

News Briefs A new development in the province of Agusan del Norte is on its way upon implementation of the program called “Support to Capacity Development Measures on Conflict Sensitive Local Development Planning Processes in Agusan del Norte.”

Breastfeeding Awareness Month is observed every month of August by virtue of RA 10028 signed on March 16, 2010. The observance will highlight the importance of public education and awareness to promote and support breastfeeding as the normal, natural and preferred method of feeding infants and young children.

President Duterte signed two laws extending the validity of passport to 10 years and driver’s license to 5 years.

In order to ensure that members will be able to discharge their functions effectively, the Local Price Coordinating Council (LPCC) here has recently conducted a follow-up meeting to reorient the members on pertinent laws as well as discuss further the requirements under the current Mindanaowide price freeze.

The provincial legislators strongly supported the move of Agusan del Norte Cong. Erlpe John M. Amante in Congress for the passage of house bills seeking the declaration of tourism sites in the province of Agusan del Norte.

Cover Story

Payanig sa Bislig: A drill to prepare for the ‘Big One’

By: LSElechicon, KACPoliran, NBBanda

B

ISLIG CITY, Surigao del Sur - Duck, Cover, and Hold – the employees calmly ran and covered their heads as National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (NDRRMC) held an earthquake drill recently at Bislig City Hall in consonance with the National Disasters Month last July with the theme “ 4Ks Kamalayan Sa Kahandaan Katumbas Ay Kaligtasan.”

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Cover Story

The National, Regional, Provincial, and City Risk Reduction Management Councils, accordingly, jointly coordinated the activity in collaboration with various local and national government agencies.

The “Payanig sa Bislig Drill” seeks to intensify the local government unit’s earthquake preparedness and strengthen the commitment of the local government in building safe communities.

The evaluators headed by Engr. Evelyn B. Sererado from the Philippine Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) observed the entire exercise and conducted their assessment with regard to the conducted earthquake drill.

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Cover Story

As mentioned, LGU-Bislig was able to perfectly execute the six phases of the actual conduct of the drill – Alarm Phase, Response Phase, Evacuation Phase, Assembly Phase, Head Count Phase, and Evaluation or Termination of the Drill which in turn leads to a very satisfactory rating. “Higher than the previous earthquake drill I have observed,” Engr. Sererado said.

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Participating drills, exercises, and advocacies as part of the continuing effort of the government are definitely of great help in enhancing preparedness and raising awareness among employees thereby making them tough and ready enough to face any man made or natural disasters.

(PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Photo Gallery Butuan City Cultural Night Culmination Activity for the 67th Adlaw Hong Butuan FSUU Gymnasium, Butuan City 02 August 2017

Butuan City Public Safety Company

Adopted Pupils Sta. Cruz Elementary School “A Day with the PNP” BCPO Station 1, Butuan City 03 August 2017

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ASEAN News

‘Collaborate, communicate’ to keep ASEAN moving

Since its inception in 1967, the 10-member regional organization has transformed into a global economic powerhouse, with a population of 622 million and has become one of the world’s fastest growing investment destinations.

QUEZON CITY - Philippine Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez who is also the ASEAN 2017 Economic Ministers chairman stressed the importance of collaboration and communication as two essential elements to keep ASEAN moving.

“The region has to focus on two Cs, Collaboration and Communication. By engaging multistakeholders, ASEAN develops a winwin solution in ensuring that economic opportunities will be equitably felt by all ASEAN citizens,” a news release from the Department of Trade & Industry (DTI) quoted Lopez as he spoke at the ASEAN@50 Conference in Kuala Lumpur on 4 August before an assembly of audience representing various stakeholders.

ASEAN’s total trade increased by USD 700 billion between 2007 and 2015, with intra-ASEAN trade comprising the largest share. In 2015, ASEAN attracted USD 121 billion of FDI with intra-ASEAN constituting the largest share of inflows.

Sec. Lopez said that ASEAN should aim to communicate its programs and priorities to the ASEAN citizens, providing them with the right platform to know how they can contribute to the region’s growth story.

“Our communication must be sustained and intensified if we want to reap the benefits of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), working towards a deeper regional integration in 2025,” he added.

The trade chief made reference to the ASEAN 2025: Forging Ahead Together as a forward-looking roadmap to prepare the region in the next phase of evolvement, and which charts the pathway for strengthening the ASEAN Community over the next 10 years.

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ASEAN News

As one of the three pillars of the ASEAN Community, the AEC is a realization of ASEAN’s goal to have an integrated and prosperous economic region with a single market–where there is free movement of goods, services and investments.

“ASEAN’s continuing economic transformation remains an example of how regional integration and cooperation is plausible despite challenges and diversity in size, geography, political background, and culture,” the trade chief said.

“We have engaged our major trading partners namely Australia, China, India, Japan, Korea, and New Zealand in free trade agreements, negotiating as a single ASEAN entity rather than as individual economies discussing bilateral trade arrangements,” Sec. Lopez added.

In 2013, ASEAN initiated negotiations for a Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), which aims to expand the current ASEAN market to a huge integrated market of 3.5 billion with its six Dialogue Partners China, Korea,

AEC reflects connectedness and Japan, Australia, New Zealand and translates diversity into strength as India.

ASEAN’s variety becomes a source of attraction to global investors, mindful Sec. Lopez also took the of the region’s stake in open global opportunity to present the Philippine markets. agenda as the current ASEAN chair.

Under the inclusive, innovation-led

According to Sec. Lopez, growth theme, the country is poised promoting complementation and to champion the development and cooperation is at the heart of ASEAN internationalization of micro, small, and integration efforts. Closer trade and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with key enhanced economic cooperation, strategic measures to increase trade combined with continued engagement and investment, integrate MSMEs in with Dialogue Partners, provides global value chains and pursue an the region with a solid platform to innovation-led economy. continuously bolster the region’s growth and promote complementation of “ASEAN continues to develop domestic reforms among Member into a pivotal marketplace with its States. relatively young, growing labor force and emerging middle class,” he said,

ASEAN has also become a adding that ASEAN has transformed significant link to the international into a community of dramatic diversity community because of the dynamism and manifold opportunities. (DTI/RJB/ and the huge potential it offers to the SDL/PIA-NCR) world.

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ASEAN News

“A well-informed Filipino is an empowered Filipino,” says PIA official Feature By: Alma L. Tingcang

BONGAO, Tawi Tawi - Close to 200 participants attended the ASEAN Multi-Sectoral Forum here organized by the Philippine Information Agency which was held recently at The Initiative for Tawi Tawi Area Development Foundation Auditorium.

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ASEAN News

Mayor Jimuel S. Que of Bongao welcomed the guests led by PIA Director General Harold G. Clavite as well as participants from the local government units, national government agencies, academe, youth, business sector, religious groups and other sectors of the community.

“Hopefully, Tawi Tawi will benefit from the ASEAN and we will learn much from this forum. This will give us more knowledge and more information because many of us still do not know what ASEAN is all about,” said the good mayor.

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations ASEAN is composed of 10 member countries, namely: Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

“Thank you for this wonderful experience in this beautiful island of Tawi Tawi. This is my second time to be here and it’s good to be back,” said DG Harold Clavite.

He recalled that he stayed in the island for one and a half month, 16 years ago when he was with Gawad Kalinga. DG Clavite appreciated the development of the island especially Bud Bongao, the eco-tourism park, and the peace and serenity of the place.

“Memorable ang paghost ng Pilipinas sa ASEAN because this year

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marks its 50th anniversary and PIA is tasked to spread information on ASEAN,” DG Clavite stated.

He cited that the Philippines is the gateway to the ASEAN and offers a lot of opportunities on business and economy, tourism, education, among others.

The ASEAN multi-sectoral forum intends to share information and to bring along other agencies of government to address the concerns of the community.

“PIA has been serving the public for 30 years under the umbrella of the Presidential Communications Operations Office. We are the public information arm of the government.

Nakikipagtulungan at nakikipag ugnayan po kami sa mga communities to make sure na umaabot sa inyo ang mga programa ng gobyerno,” he explained.

The Philippine Information Agency has 16 regional offices and 72 information centers (ICs) to better serve the public. There is no infocenter however in Tawi Tawi. “But we are exploring potential partnership with LGUs, with Gov. Matba and Mayor Que so we could open an IC here.

We are planning to establish 15 additional ICs from 2017- 2018 so next year, we could say that we have PIA offices from Batanes to Tawi Tawi,” said Clavite.

ASEAN News

He showed a short video which depicted the Philippines as the texting capital of the world in the 1990s. In 2011, we became the social networking capital and now, we are the most social nation in the planet. We love to create, consume and share information.

sometimes we spread fake news.

PIA uses four platforms to ensure that its target audience will be reached: on print, online, on air, and on the ground, similar to the conduct of the ASEAN multi-sectoral forum.

Among PIA’s mandate is to ensure that every Filipino is a well-informed citizen. “We distribute information that will improve your quality of life because we believe that a well-informed Filipino is an empowered Filipino,” the PIA official quoted.

Other guests who graced the multi-sectoral forum were PIA regional directors Noemi B. Edaga (Region 9), Efren F. Elbanbuena (Region 11) and Abner M. Caga (CARAGA); Abdul Jalil Umangan of MinDA; Josefina Reyes of DSWD; Ameer Hassa Doro of POEA; Jalpa Jumdain - DOLE; Nazrulla G.

He cautioned however that one Masahud - DTI; and Dr. Aldrin Ibbo should be responsible in what he posts - PCCI ARMM governor. (ALT-PIA9/ and shares on social media because Zamboanga Sibugay)

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REGIONAL NEWS

CARAT Expo 2017 scales up for increased productivity in Caraga region By: Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY – With an aim to promote, strengthen and mainstream the agri-aqua produce and trade industry in Caraga region, the Butuan City Chamber of Commerce and Industry Foundation, Inc. (BCCCIFI) is all set for this year’s Caraga Agricultural Trade and Marketing Exposition or the CARAT Expo 2017.

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Regional News

It will be a 6-day event slated on August 8-13, 2017 to be held here with a theme, “Zoom up Caraga! Responding to challenges in agri-aqua productivity, responsible mining and progressive entrepreneurship.”

A technology for the treatment of household waste is being piloted in Siargao according to Mallonga. Said innovative technology is very useful such that bacteria on wastes will be reduced. “It will definitely help preserve and protect the environment from

Department of Agriculture (DA) pollution and degradation,” added Caraga regional director Abel James Mallonga.

Monteagudo said during a press conference that they are glad to be As to disaster risk reduction and part of the CARAT Expo 2017 activities management innovation, DOST Caraga and he hoped to build a continuing will be launching one of the outputs of strong partnership with the Chamber of the Caraga State University during the Commerce in working together to level S&T Week which will be celebrated on up the agriculture industry in the region. the same dates.

Meanwhile, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Caraga regional director Juan Albaladejo reassured that the bureau shares an affirmative effort in maximizing its resources in pushing forth the valuable programs and projects in fishery and aquatic field.

As mentioned also by Mallonga, DOST has its harmonized National Science and Technology Agenda which include Reseach and Development (R&D) efforts for food, agri-aqua, among others. They are also pushing the universities to take advantage of the support coming from the department since its budget has

“Some 200 lobster cages are now increased to address the needs of the existing in Dinagat Islands,” mentioned region.

Albaladejo.

“We are encouraging the Higher

Programs in Science and Education Institutions (HEIs)/State Technology (S&T) are also given a boost Universities and Colleges (SUCs) to take in the region, underscored Department advantage of the support coming of Science and Technology (DOST) from DOST. They should come up with Caraga regional director Dominga a research and/or project that is of Mallonga. She also said that they advantage to the region’s environment are into innovations that work for the and sustained progress,” emphasized environmental management and Mallonga. the Caraga State University has its ongoing research and development Mallonga also said that a undertakings. state-of-the-art equipment that will 29 July - 04 August, 2017

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Regional News help Caraganons in improving and and exporters will have the opportunity developing the quality of their products to showcase and demonstrate their will be launched in August 8, 2017, in produce. the city.

To be highlighted also will be the

“We are in full support to the hosting of the 21st Caraga Business activities of the Chamber of Commerce. Conference on August 11, 2017, which It is really an opportune time because will be held at the Grand Palace Hotel, the department will also be holding this city. the Science and Technology Week wherein the advance technologies “Apart from this year’s significant will be featured in the exhibits,” she activities, it will also be another added. exciting year in 2018 because Caraga region will be participating and

Meanwhile, BCCCIFI president hosting the Mindanao-wide Food Roger Ramirez said that trade fair, Summit in partnership with Mindanao product exhibit, skills demo and Development Authority (MinDA),” said competition, agricultural and aquatic Ramirez. products demo, singing and dance contest, CARAT inspired fashion Awarding of prizes to the winning designing and modeling contest, and individuals and Technical Education the different programs will be held at the and Skills Development Authority Robinsons Place Butuan. Agricultural (TESDA) skills competition winners, and retailers and wholesalers, food giving of certificates to the partners and producers, agronomics, agriculturists, exhibitors will conclude the week-long farmers, manufacturers, food traders, CARAT Expo 2017. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

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Regional News

POPCOM’s 100Mth babies turn 3

By: Angie Balen-Antonio

BUTUAN CITY - The Commission on Population (POPCOM) commemorates this July 27th the 3rd birthday of the 100Mth symbolic babies of the region, seven of them hail from Caraga Region.

The birth of the symbolic 100Mth babies reminded us that the country’s population already hit 100 million last July 27, 2014, at exactly 12:06 a.m.

aspirations of the family members and create much pressure on the country’s capability to provide the needed basic social services.

Through this campaign, POPCOM revealed that as the 100 millionth babies turn three this year, it poses bigger challenge to everyone especially the capacity of the family to respond to the needs and

“Maayos at maginhawang pagpapalaki sa anak, pag-unlad ng pamilya, kaunlaran ng pamayanan at lakas ng sambayanan,” is the theme of this year birthday celebration of the symbolic 100Mth babies.

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Regional News

POPCOM highlighted the challenges that beset the Filipino families: lesser income and savings and high expenditures for basic needs especially among families supporting increasing numbers of children; high fertility among poor and less educated couples; and high unmet need for modern family planning among Filipino couples.

the seven 100Mth symbolic babies in the region in the context of Responsible Parenthood and Family Planning, as part of the agency’s commitment to the attainment of zero unmet need for modern family planning, Makinano added.

As a way of recognition, POPCOM will hand into the parents of the symbolic babies a birthday gift packs

Population advocates also based on the child’s development said that the demographic event needs. highlighted the importance of maternal and neonatal health as well Based on the 2015 Census of as promotes responsible parenthood Population, our country’s population and family planning among Filipino was 100.98 million, which is higher families. Besides, it is also considered by 8.64 million compared with the as a challenge to the country, as its population of 92.34 million in 2010 and socio-economic and political situation is projected to reach 105.75 million at struggle to give the citizenry a better the end of the year. quality of life.

In Caraga Region, as of August

POPCOM Caraga Regional 2015, the region’s population already Director Alexander A. Makinano reached 2.5 million, in which the pointed-out that the birth of the 100Mth Province of Agusan del Sur has the babies is a symbol of hope and a biggest population, followed by the challenge. Thus, there is a need to closely Province of Surigao del Sur. (POPCOMmonitor the status of development of Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

2 Caraga cops cited for good community relations

By: PSupt Martin M. Gamba

BUTUAN CITY - The month-long 22nd Police Community Relations Month culminated on Monday as nine PNP members including two Caraga cops were awarded in recognition of their individual achievements that promoted and strengthened policecommunity partnership.

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Regional News

During the Monday Flag Raising ceremony at the Philippine National Police, National Headquarters, Camp Crame, Quezon City, nine cops from different regions across the country received their respective awards after being selected outstanding performers at the national level for the 22nd PCR Month.

and development initiatives in their respective areas of responsibility.

Police Senior Inspector Tessiel Moleta, assigned to Surigao City Police Station, was given the Outstanding Junior Police Commissioned Officer award while PO2 Christine Taub of Agusan del Norte Police Provincial Office was adjudged as the Outstanding Junior

Chief PNP Rolando Dela Rosa and Police Non-Commissioned Officer.

PCSupt. Noel Constantino, Directorate of PCR presented awards and “These awardees from Police recognition to the deserving PNP offices, Regional Office 13 exemplify the quality units, personnel and private individuals of the police officers in Caraga and their who have initiated “Best Practices” that commitment to serve the community,” promoted and strengthened police- PRO 13 Regional Director PCSupt. community partnership and greatly Rolando B Felix said. (PNP-Caraga/PIAcontributed to the overall peace Caraga) 29 July - 04 August, 2017

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SURIGAO DEL NORTE

Surigao Norte mentees complete accounting, financial management seminar By: Cresol Mantong

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte – Around 20 mentees of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Surigao del Norte recently completed the oneday Accounting and Financial Management Seminar held at Hotel Tavern, this city.

The one-day activity is 8th of the 10th modules, free seminar offered under the Kapatid Mentor Me Program of the DTI and Go Negosyo in partnership with the Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship.

During the said seminar, the participants were taught on the principles of accounting and perform the actual exercise on accounting cycle that include identifying transactions, analyzing transaction, journalizing,

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transfer to ledger, preparing trial balance, adjusting entries, preparing worksheet, financial statement, closing entry, post-closing trial-balance, and interpreting basic financial ratios.

The participants were also reminded to learn accounting by heart, and perform recordkeeping as a practice to have an instrument that will help interpret business operations and status. (DTI-Surigao del Norte/PIASurigao del Norte)

Provincial News

4Ps beneficiaries attend consumer education seminar in Surigao Norte By: Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte – A total of 576 4Ps (Pamilyang Pilipino Pantawid Program) beneficiaries attended the 2-day Consumer Education Seminar (CES) conducted by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) held recently in Mainit town, this province.

DTI provincial director Celestino L. Negapatan said the seminar was conducted to provide understanding on the basic rights and responsibilities of consumers.

“They were also made to understand the benefits of asserting heir rights as consumers so they can save money and avoid potential problems and hazards in buying defective, substandard or poor quality products,”

He explained that they had Negapatan said. given emphasis on topics on how to file complaints at the Consumer Some tips on how to identify Welfare Desk of the business products that met quality standard were establishments or at the DTI Provincial also shared to the 4Ps beneficiaries.

Office in case they have problems They were as well advised to become on the products they have purchase wise and vigilant consumers so they can and participants were also briefed protect themselves and their families on the salient features of Republic from malpractices of some business Act 10909 otherwise known as the No establishments. (DTI-SDN/PIA-Surigao Shortchanging Act of 2016. del Norte) 29 July - 04 August, 2017

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Provincial News

Dinagat Islands guv leads groundbreaking of Women’s center

SAN JOSE, Dinagat Islands – Dinagat Islands governor Glenda B. Ecleo led the groundbreaking of the Women and Children Crisis and Development (WCCD) Center on July 4, 2017 held at Purok -1 Barangay Cuarinta here.

WCCD center is a residential care facility that will cater women especially in difficult circumstances (WEDC) or those women or wives that are maltreated or abused and children in need of special protection like abused neglected, abandoned, street children and foundlings.

duration of 187 calendar days, which is funded by the provincial government from the Performance Challenge Fund as incentive for winning the 2016 Seal of Good Local Governance.

In her message, governor Ecleo is grateful and expressed her gratitude to all the Dinagatnons

The WCCDC Center is worth P4 for all the support extended to her million that comprises a land area administration. (PIO-Dinagat Islands/ of 600 square meters and has a work PIA-Dinagat Islands)

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SURIGAO DEL SUR

Army to public: cooperate with security forces

By: Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – The army official in Surigao del Sur urged the people of Surigao del Sur to cooperate with the security forces by providing timely and accurate information about the presence of the New People’s Army (NPA) in their area to prevent any terroristic activities.

“The timely information about the presence of the NPA can prevent terroristic activities against business establishments and communities. We cannot let the NPA terrorists roam around and continue to sow fear and conduct economic sabotage in the province,” said 402nd Brigade Commander Col. Franco Nemesio Gacal, in a press statement.

harassment incidents happen, the CAA Patrol Base in Matho, Cortes town and Pandanon Patrol Base in Barangay Pandanon this city were fired by the NPA.

Based on the report received from the 36 Infantry Battalion, one unarmed in a civilian attire trooper was killed in action after the NPA harassed the Pandanon Patrol Base.

Accordingly, the trooper was there to conduct community support activities as part of the national government’s development effort.

It can be recalled that on July 18, 2017, the NPA chopped down the ready to harvest banana plants owned by DOLE Stanfilco and burned six contract vehicles (five Isuzu Elf and one Bonggo truck) in Barangay Col. Gacal and 36th Infantry Anahao Daan, Tago town.

Battalion commander Lt. Col. Randolph Rojas both condemned the incidents.

After a week, two separate (PIA-Surigao del Sur) 29 July - 04 August, 2017

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Provincial News

AFP chief graces 36IB’s founding anniv in SurSur By: Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Eduardo Año graced the celebration of the 43rd Founding Anniversary of the 36 Infantry “Valor” Battalion in Surigao del Sur on Tuesday, August 1, 2017 held at the battalion headquarters, Brgy. Dayoan, Tago, Surigao del Sur.

“I am very proud to be a member of the Valor Battalion,” General Año said in his keynote message.

General Año was formerly assigned as intelligence officer of 36IB on 1985 and January of 1988.

Hermogenes Esperon Jr.

During his career as a combat officer, he served as platoon leader and later as Bravo Company commander of the 36IB.

Meanwhile, General Año thanked the local government of Surigao del Sur for donating four-hectare of land as the permanent camp of the 402nd Brigade, and the municipal level officials for extending their support to the Philippine Army during the 36IB anniversary celebration. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)

“No other battalion can surpass the record of 36IB with so many members who became chief of staff of the AFP,” said National Security Adviser

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General Efren Abu, General Esperon, General Ricardo David, and General Año were once assigned in 36IB before.

AGUSAN DEL NORTE

Former Cong. Aquino named father of Agusan del Norte By: Jay Vincent V. Demain

BUTUAN CITY - The provincial government of Agusan del Norte named the former Congressman Jose C. Aquino as the Father of Agusan del Norte when it celebrated its 50 year founding anniversary last June 12-17, 2017.

Through Provincial Resolution No. 174-2017, provincial officials recognized the efforts of the late Congressman Aquino of the Congressional District of the then province of Agusan del Norte when he authored Republic Act 4979 - the law that divided the lone province into two provinces, namely: Agusan del Norte and Agusan del Sur that Congress enacted on June 12, 1967.

Provincial Board Member Elizabeth Marie R. Calo, author of said resolution, said that it is but fitting to honor the initiative of the former congressman that made history in the creation of the province of Agusan del Norte.

Honorable Aquino, before he was elected as Congressman in the 6th Congress from 1965-1969, also served as 29 July - 04 August, 2017

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Provincial News the Governor of the province of Agusan provider in Caraga. from 1964-1965 and the last Governor before the province was divided.

The separation of Agusan del Norte paved the way for a more

With its 50 years of existence focused governance administration from its creation up to this moment, and implementation of plans, the province of Agusan del Norte has programs, projects and activities for grown into a progressive province the development and welfare of the and still continues to envolve and province and its constituents. (LGUachieve significant milestone as a Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del leading agri-forest and and service Norte)

Agusan del Norte entrepreneurs: There is more to techno upgrading in DOST By: Aliana Gene Sarmiento

“SETUP is bringing technology and innovation closer to us, the local entrepreneurs� – Lourdes Manulat of ILM Trading, entrepreneur and SETUP client.

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Provincial News

The Training on Innovation and Product Development for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSME) in Agusan del Norte organized by the Provincial Science and Technology Center-SETUP recently kicked off at Almont City Hotel, Butuan City.

The Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) is a nationwide strategy of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) to assist and encourage S&T innovations among qualified MSMEs. Eighteen SETUP clients in Agusan del Norte attended the said training as part of SETUP activities to equip them with needed skills for productivity and competitiveness.

According to Ricardo N. Varela, Assistant Regional Director of DOSTCaraga, it is part of DOST’s mandate to assist in the socio-economic growth of Filipinos. Providing technology upgrading opportunities to MSMEs means more jobs and income for the locals. Aside from acquiring new equipment, SETUP clients also receive free trainings, technical assistance and others. The participants applauded the efforts of the Provincial Science and Technology-ADN for making the

assistance fast and hassle-free in their part.

The two-day training facilitated

by Prof. Richard S. Celeste, a business management expert and entrepreneur from Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology, focuses on three aspects: developing the skills of the participants in identifying new and creative products; developing a more customer-centered approach in business,and; encouraging innovation and collaboration in their respective companies. Earlier in the training, the participants made their own innovative products out of plastic straws, bottles and papers and prepared their own product presentation.

“Most of our local entrepreneurs give less prioritization on the importance of innovation and product development. To be competitive and more profitable, they needed these two,” said Ednon John Aparicio, Project Assistant for PSTC-ADN SETUP Program.

Interested clients and entrepreneurs can visit their respective provincial science and technology centers in the region to know more about the program. (DOST/PIA-Agusan del Norte) 29 July - 04 August, 2017

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Photo Gallery Search for “Agusan del Norte 2017 DRRM Bae” Butuan City 29 July 2017

Launching of Caraga Regional Development Plan (RDP) 2017-2022

LMX Convention Center, Butuan City 01 August 2017

AGUSAN DEL SUR

DTI reorients LPCC-Prosperidad on consumer-related laws

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur - In order to ensure that members will be able to discharge their functions effectively, the Local Price Coordinating Council (LPCC) here has recently conducted a followup meeting to reorient the members on pertinent laws as well as discuss further the requirements under the current Mindanao-wide price freeze.

Prosperidad Mayor Albin Magdamit presided the meeting and facilitated the discussion with 100 percent attendance of the council members.

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Caraga Regional Head of the Consumer Protection Division Lorijane Sacote, presented a summary of the pertinent consumer protection

–related laws and discussed in detail the provisions of Republic Act 7581 (Price Act) including the functions of the LPCC member agencies.

It was then followed by the presentation of each member agency on the actions that they have taken with the price freeze order (as a result of the declaration of martial law) and the status of the products that they are 29 July - 04 August, 2017

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Provincial News mandated to monitor.

The other agencies that also reported include the National Food Authority (NFA), Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Health, the Municipal Economic Enterprise & Development Office and the Municipal Agriculture Office. The presenters were Cerila P. Inson (DTI), Hugo M. Sarigumba (NFA), Brigidito R. Acuso (PSA), Ike L.

Igpalina (DENR), Evelyn T. Monato (MEEDO) and Marlita P. Cortez (MAO).

The council also moved to organize a Price Action Team (PAT) composed of technical staff from each member agency. The PAT is tasked to do initial studies on the state of prices of basic necessities monitored in the market, make some analysis and submit their outputs to the council for further assessment. (DTI-Agusan del Sur/PIAAgusan del Sur)

AgSur KMME mentees study human resource & organization management for their business SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur – “Human resource is the heart of the organization,” Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship (PCE) mentor Maylene Navalta shared during the Kapatid Mentor Me Program (KMME) Module 7: Human Resource and Organization Management held recently at the Mabe’s Savory Place, this municipality.

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Provincial News

Navalta also emphasized that Sayson, one of the mentees. leadership is the foundation of human resource.

Sayson is owner of Flor’s Meat Processing and president of

Agusan del Sur’s 1st batch of 25 DelCaZiLab Women’s Association—a mentees were taught how to become BuB 2014 beneficiary on Meat & leaders in their respective organizations. Chicken Processing project of the local government unit of Talacogon.

They were asked to assess individually what type of leaders they Agusan del Sur Chamber of are after pointing out that leadership is Commerce, Trade and Industry not about personality, but rather about President and local mentor Freddie behavior. Navalta also encouraged Mero also expressed his gratitude to them to value their people to help the PCE Mentor Navalta for making the them achieve their goals and succeed module and the terms and processes in their businesses. in human resource management easy to understand for the mentees. He was

“The basics of Human Resource joined by seven local mentors.

Management—HR planning, acquiring, developing, motivating and KMME is a program that aims separation—will help in managing my to produce confident entrepreneurs people for the future expansion of my with the right mindset and businessbusiness. Meantime, I will apply the knowhow who can sustain and scale lessons I learned in developing and up their enterprises. (DTI-Agusan del motivating my subordinates,” said Flora Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

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HEALTH NEWS

Iron-fortified rice is best for school children NNS found that there are 2 in every 10 school-aged children who are suffering The dietary component of the 7th from iron deficiency anemia.

National Nutrition Survey (NNS) by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute Based on the World Health of the Department of Science and Organization (WHO) standard, the Technology (FNRI-DOST) affirmed anemia status of the Filipino schoolthat rice is still the top most frequently aged children is classified as “of consumed food among school children moderate public health significance”. six to twelve years old.

The WHO says that iron deficiency is a major cause of anemia.

About 94 percent of the children surveyed say that they eat rice almost Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) three times a day. The survey reported occurs when children do not eat that the average rice consumed by the enough food that contains iron and school-age children daily is 235 grams when the body is not able to absorb or about 1 ½ cups. sufficient amount of iron needed by the body.

On the other hand, the Children suffering from IDA may biochemical component of the 7th show poor physical, mental, and By: Czarina Teresita S. Martinez

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Health News overall school performance. IDA may Rice is widely consumed by schoolbe prevented if school-aged children aged children, so it is an excellent food are given iron-rich like liver, granular vehicle for iron fortification. organs, red meats, poultry, and fish.

The FNRI Food Research

Other sources of iron from plants and Development Group (FRDG) are nuts and beans like squash seeds, developed an improved technology chickpeas, cowpeas, white beans, on iron-fortified rice. It developed red beans, lentils, soybeans. Green an iron rice pre-mix (IRP) made from leafy vegetables such as malunggay rice flour mixed with micronized iron leaves, kulitis, talilum, gabi, saluyot, fortificant. The mixture is passed through kinchay and kamote are also sources the hot extruder to form a rice-shaped of iron. kernel. The iron rice premix is added to ordinary rice at one is to two hundred

It is best to eat iron-rich food (1:200) ratio or 10 grams IFP to two kilos together with foods rich in vitamin C of ordinary rice. like citrus fruits to help the body absorb iron from plant sources.

Iron-fortified rice is cooked in the same way as ordinary rice. In a sensory

Iron fortified rice (IFR) is an evaluation conducted among trained excellent source of iron. The Philippines panelists, they gave cooked IFR a has adopted food fortification as one rating of like moderately to like very of the strategies in fighting IDA. much. The FNRI is vigorously promoting iron rice pre-mix and iron-fortified rice

Philippine lawmakers recognize and is actively looking for partners who that food fortification is one of the will invest and adopt the technology. strategies in fighting micronutrient (FNRI/PIA-Caraga) malnutrition. Thus, R.A. 8976 known as the “Philippine Food Fortification Act of For more information on food 2000� is the legal basis for the mandatory and nutrition, contact Dr. Mario V. food fortification of rice with iron, along Capanzana, Director, Food and with other staple food items like flour, Nutrition Research Institute, Department sugar and cooking oil. of Science and Technology, General Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig

Food fortification is the addition City, E-Mail: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph or of nutrients at levels above the natural mar_v_c@yahoo.com, Telefax: (02) state for commonly consumed food 8372934, (02) 8273164, or call (02) items. Specific micronutrients are added 8372071 local 2296 or visit our website: to the food that is widely consumed by http:www.fnri.dost.gov.ph (FNRI-DOST at-risk groups.

S&T Media Service/PIA-Caraga) 29 July - 04 August, 2017

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MINDANAO NEWS

MinDA, LCP to tap local govts in rebuilding Marawi

Forming part of its long-term goal to bring back normalcy in the Islamic City of Marawi, the Mindanao Development Authority partners with the League of Cities of the Philippines for the reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts for Marawi.

In a Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC) signed by MinDA and LCP yesterday as a side event to the 3rd ASEAN Mayor’s Forum at Taguig City, the two parties express their intention to cooperate and provide assistance in the reconstruction, rehabilitation, and

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development of Marawi and other affected CONFED Mindanao cities affected by the siege that started last May 23.

The partnership heeds the strong commitment of the Duterte Administration to build a better Marawi

Mindanao News once the entire city is cleared from any at the forefront of the country’s security threat. development strategies. Through the years, LCP’s services have evolved from

In his State of the Nation Address administrative to policy, technical, and delivered on Monday, President Rodrigo programs support.

Duterte promised the rehabilitation and fast efforts to rebuild Marawi and the The MOC also adopts the strategies rest of Lanao del Sur. identified under the Mindanao Development Corridors (MinDC), which

“This partnership will also ensure already includes an infrastructure that all the development of programs framework for the Northern Mindanao and projects are focused on both the Development Corridor that ensure the short-term and long-term needs of the connection of Marawi to the rest of the affected people of Lanao del Sur such economic corridors. us food security, livelihood assistance, education, and shelter,” said MinDA In a recent meeting with the Chairman Datu Abul Khayr Alonto, Marawi and Lanao del Sur stakeholders, who also committed to make sure that Alonto said that of the priorities of MinDC historical contexts are incorporated in is to pave the road connections from the reconstruction and rehabilitation Marawi to the eastern side of Talakag efforts for Marawi. to Kapai.

As stated in the MOC, LCP and the MinDA are in solidarity in promoting the connectivity among the cities of the CONFED-Mindanao in order to foster and promote the welfare and interests of the stakeholders affected by the conflict.

“These roads are currently open, but not open,” he said.

The corridors strategy, now includes the Bangsamoo Economic Development Corridor covering Maguindana, Maranao, and Lupah Sug, and aims to ensure that the road

“Our main goal in this partnership connection can lead Marawi to market is to tap our able local governments centers and ports. from all over the country through the established mechanism of LCP, in MinDA is working in partnership alleviating the suffering of our brothers with the Department of Public Works and sisters in Marawi and help them get and Highways, Department of Tourism, back on the track to development,” Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Alonto added.

Zone Authority, and other infrastructure planning agencies in planning and

LCP was created to promote identifying critical connectivity project local urban governance agenda in Mindanao. (MinDA) 29 July - 04 August, 2017

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Mindanao News

MinDA chief urges Marawi grads to keep hopes high for Mindanao

As the government gradually shifts its efforts towards rebuilding and rehabilitating the Islamic City of Marawi, Mindanao Development Authority Chairman Datu Abul Khayr Alonto assures the new batch of Marawi graduates that the city will rise stronger and better.

In his Commencement Speech delivered to around 2,000 graduates of the Mindanao State University Main Campus last July 13, the Maranao leader expressed his hope for the future professionals to contribute to nationbuilding and work with the government in rehabilitating Marawi.

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“My dear graduates, use what you have learned from MSU to broaden your perspectives, to remain confident and optimistic in Mindanao, to be hopeful about its future and deeply committed to being an instrument of peace,�

Alonto said.

Mindanao News

This is the first time for the MSU Marawi to hold their commencement exercise outside of the campus, holding the ceremonies instead at MSU Iligan Institute of Technology, following the siege that befell the city last May 23.

“What happened in Marawi 52 days ago, is unfortunately personal to all of us; for somehow, there are amongst us who must have lost their loved ones; a family member, a friend, colleague, classmate or teacher; and there are those who will never ever make it to march in this halls or witness this kind of event in their lives,” he added.

He also cited the strong commitment and determination of the Duterte administration to effect both structural and institutional reforms that bring in bright prospects for lasting peace and development in Mindanao and herald a turnaround for its future and the Bangsamoro people.

Under the Philippine Development Plan 2017-2022, MinDA works with all stakeholders to create an environment conducive for business growth. The agency collaborate in Mindanao to pursue better governance, financing access, reliable power, infrastructure and connectivity, as detailed in one major program called Mindanao Development Corridors that will include a Mindanao Bangsamoro Economic

The first Muslim MinDA Chairman Corridor and the Tawi-Tawi Economic however noted that despite what Zone and Freeport. happened, Mindanao still holds great potential to be the country’s frontline “We use this agenda to effectively for economic growth owing to its rich, leverage for better and reasonable largely untapped natural resources budget allocation from the national and a competitive and literate labor government to fund priority road force. networks and bridge projects to connect Mindanao and provide direct

“Throughout history, our darkest access to poorer communities,” Alonto hours are always followed by our added. finest moments. We are at this point Alonto is the former Vice Mayor where time and circumstances accord us excellent opportunity to and Mayor of Marawi City. He was build a strong nation in Mindanao the Interim Head of the Regional and dismantle the national divide,” Autonomous Government, served as Alonto said while noting that there Ambassador and former Philippine is a need to capture the historical Head of Mission. He was also the dimensions of development in order founding leader of the Youth Wing of to bring back lasting peace in Marawi the Muslim Movement in the Philippines (Lam Alif and MNLF). and the rest of Mindanao.

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37

NATIONAL NEWS

DepEd receives educational assistance from USAID

PASIG CITY - To achieve the mutual development goals of ensuring inclusive and quality education for all and promoting lifelong learning, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) handed over 370 computer tablets, sample student chairs, and the scale model and design of a typhoon-resistant school building to the Department of Education (DepEd) on August 2 at the Bulwagan ng Karunungan, DepEd Central Office.

The full set of 6,500 chairs will be given to displaced students from Marawi to replace those that were destroyed as a result of the ongoing armed conflict. In addition, the school building design, developed by USAID

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for its post-Yolanda assistance, may be adopted by DepEd in other disaster affected communities.

As part of the ICT for Reading initiative under Basa Pilipinas, 370 tablet

National News computers will be turned over to the City Division of San Fernando, La Union, which will benefit 26 schools, 60 Grade 3 teachers, and approximately 1,700 pupils.

Present during the handover ceremony were DepEd Undersecretaries Alain Pascua and Annalyn Sevilla, Assistant Secretaries Revsee Escobedo and G.H. Ambat, USAID Philippines Office of Education Director Brian Levey, andBasa Pilipinas Project Chief of Party Marcial Salvatierra.

Escobedo highlighted the event as a clear testament of and manifestation to the long history of cooperation, partnership and collaboration between DepEd and USAID.

Pascua explained that the result of the pilot program on the use of ICT in reading will be utilized in formulating the Department’s programs, especially the use of ICT materials in the teaching and learning process.

Pascua added that he is discussing with DepEd-Education Facilities Division (EFD) the introduction of new school building designs for 2018. One of the designs is the scale model developed by USAID, where classrooms are elevated and will be built in flood-prone areas.

(DepEd)

In her presentation on the new ICT for reading pilot initiative, Basa Pilipinas Deputy Chief of Party Ces Ochoa said the tablets will be loaded with PDF copies of all Basa Pilipinas-developed Grade 3 leveled readers in English and Filipino, plus an interactive reading application (Vernacular) that will test and study the use of tablets to support students’ literacy and learning.

On behalf of the US Embassy Manila’s USAID, Levey emphasized the continuous commitment of USAID to helping the Department provide quality basic education, “The US government shares [DepEd’s] determination and enthusiasm to continuously improve the quality of education for students throughout the Philippines.”

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National News

Duterte extends passport and drivers’ license validity; provides free public internet access MANILA President Rodrigo Roa Duterte signed bills that prolong validity of Philippine passports and drivers’ licenses, and establish free internet access in public places, this Wednesday, August 2.

Republic Act (RA) No. 10928 violation within five (5) years, he may extended the validity of regular be entitled to a renewal of 10 years. passports from five years to 10 years, except for individuals under age 18.

“(P)rior to the issuance of said license, the applicant shall present

The Department of Foreign himself/herself in person and have Affairs (DFA), the issuing authority for his/her photograph taken by the Philippine passports, “may limit the LTO (Land Transportation Office). All period of validity to less than 10 years, drivers’ licenses issued shall be signed whenever in the national economic in the presence of the LTO Head interest or political stability of the or his/her deputies and shall bear, country such restriction is necessary”, among others, the full name, date the RA stated. of birth, height, weight, sex, color of eyes, blood type, complete current

Similarly, RA 10930 extended the address, biometrics, license number, validity of drivers’ licenses to five (5) and its date of issue and expiration,” years. If a driver commits no traffic RA 10930 said.

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National News

A fine amounting to P20,000 will be imposed if an applicant for a driver’s license is found to have misrepresented material information, connived with the issuing officer, falsified documents, or cheated during examinations. In addition, the license of an erring applicant will be revoked and the applicant will be banned from applying for two years.

Under the Program, connecting to public internet access points will be free of charge. The free internet service provided will be separate from the internet service used for back-end computer and information systems in government offices, and technical solutions restricting access may be employed when a clear and present technical risk has occurred.

Meanwhile, RA 10929 created a Free Public Internet Access Program. It covers public places such as government offices, state universities and colleges, hospitals and health centers, parks and plazas, libraries, airports and seaports, transport terminals, among others.

The Free Public Internet Access Fund (FPIAF), under the management of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), was created to provide funding for the implementation of the Program. (PCO)

Manila Bulletin 29 July - 04 August, 2017

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