Caraga InFocus – July 06 -12, 2019

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[ Contents 06 - 12 July 2019

Volume III, No. 47

Coastal clean-up opens NDRM observance in Caraga REGIONAL NEWS

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10 11 13 14

Manobo tribe imparts rich culture, tradition thru embroidery, beadwork

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DA, PIA forge partnership for agri program info drive Army presents 121 newly enlisted privates

MINDANAO NEWS

Student-volunteers urge other youths to try sailing as sport Geo-SAFER Mindanao to strengthen ties with partner stakeholders in Caraga for infra dev’t

PROVINCIAL NEWS

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500 AgSur farmers to benefit from P5.5-M worth of FMEs

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43 SurSur PWDUs finish skills training

Mindanao still a safe destination: DOT exec

NATIONAL NEWS

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DA Caraga empowers barangay officials as partners in agri-development

DA project to raise durian productivity

Andanar cites dev’t efforts under second half of Duterte’s term Duterte’s priority bills will be easier to pass under ‘super majority’ in Congress – Andanar

Duterte admin to remain service-driven amid high ratings ‘911 TESDA’ app orientation draws 400 TVIs

PNP, Army enhance skills to effectively communicate to grassroots Agusan Norte leaders converge in stakeholders’ security forum

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News Briefs The budget allocation for the Rice Competetiveness Program for every region will be proportionate to the number of hectares it has.

More than 150 members of the Unyon ng Mag-uuma sa Agusan del Norte (UMAN), an NPA supporters and residents of Barangay Bitan-agan, Butuan City, denounced their support to the CPP-NPA Terrorists during a Peace Consultation Dialogue initiated by the Barangay Council of Barangay Bitanagan, in partnership with the local government unit of Butuan City and the 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion. (1Lt Roel T Maglalang, CMO Officer, 23IB, 4ID, PA)

A 2nd Quarter Municipal Anti-Drug Abuse Council (MADAC) Meeting was held on June 8 at the conference room of the Legislative Building of LGU Claver in Brgy. Tayaga, Claver, Surigao del Norte. Part of the discussions was the peace and order campaign and activities in the town of Claver.

The Employees Compensation Commission (ECC) Caraga conducted recently the Employees Compensation Program (ECP) In-house Seminar during the Continuing Labor Education Seminar to Contractors/Subcontractors, Plantations, Wholesale/Retail Establishments and Joint Industry Tripartite Meeting Of the Construction & Plantation ITC’s held at the Mabe’s Savory Place, San Francisco, Agusan del Sur.

Cover Story

Coastal clean-up opens ND

By Venus L. Garcia

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UTUAN CITY - Known as one of the areas identified to be pro hazards, Caraga region is further strengthening the awarene preparedness, prevention, and resilience as a proactive ac the National Disaster Resilience Month (NDRM).

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DRM observance in Caraga

one to geologic and seismic ess campaign on disaster ction for this year’s observance of

Led by the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Caraga and Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC), government employees, responders and other stakeholders joined in a motorcade going to barangay Sto. Niño, Magallanes in Agusan del Norte for the coastal clean-up.

The pupils of the different schools in the municipality of Magallanes actively showed their support by waving white flaglets as a convoy of vehicles joining the motorcade passed through their school. Other pupils also conducted their own local parade.

These were just some of the obvious display of increased consciousness and giving value on disaster preparedness among the children and locals.

The event formed part of the series of activities lined up for the month-long NDRM observance in Caraga region.

According to OCD Caraga regional director Liza Mazo, the theme, “Kahandaan sa Sakuna’t Peligro Para sa Tunay na Pagbabago,” is suitable as it brings a message of owning up the responsibility to apply the right skills and knowledge in order to achieve a resilient and safe community in times of disasters.

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“NDRM is an annual event and I’m grateful that our line agencies have institutionalized this activity that is why many are getting more involved,” said Mazo.

Meanwhile, Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Caraga regional director and RDRRMC vice chairperson Dominga Mallonga cited the importance of knowing the correct information; to practice what has been learned; and to set a proper mindset in order to appropriately respond to any eventualities or prevent from becoming victims of disasters.

“It is vital to know the right information such as identifying the different hazards in the community.

Practical applications of the principles of disaster response and emergency management could also be of great help,” said Mallonga.

Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) -

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Caraga assistant regional director Donald Seronay also urged the local government units to strengthen their respective DRRMC.

Meanwhile, at his very young age, JM Bustillo willingly spent his time cleaning up the coastal area. He said he has learned the impacts of litter on the environment and even in health.

Also joining the kick-off activity was National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) - Caraga regional director lawyer Bonifacio Uy together with his team. “As we pursue our quest to be more disaster resilient, may we be firm in our conviction that disaster risk reduction (DRR) and climate change adaptation (CCA) is everyone’s concern and responsibility, from the least to the most vulnerable individual in our community. Preparedness is indeed very critical. It implies whether we have zero, minimal, or numerous casualties,” Uy said. (VLG/ PIACaraga)

REGIONAL NEWS

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Manobo tribe imparts rich culture, tradition thru embroidery, beadwork

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By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY – The Manobo tribe here has imparted their knowledge and skills on embroidery and beadwork during the recently held twoday lecture-demonstration with Bae Suyam as the resource person.

Several years have passed since Emiluz Espana who is known as “Bae Suyam” and her family moved into the urban city of Butuan from the province of Agusan del Sur.

However, they remain united and are still practicing their tribe’s tradition particularly in doing embroidery and beadwork to produce colorful

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necklace and bracelets with colorful beads that symbolize their rich culture and heritage – and these are colors red, white, black and yellow.

It has been a fruitful and meaningful experience for those who have tried doing the actual embroidery and beadwork during the said activity. The management of the

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Regional News I Empowering Communities

Butuan National Museum provided they try to accomplish the task to for free all the materials. finish a product out from the materials provided, Bae Suyam advised all to be

According to Jessa Mahinay, more patient, persevere and diligent one of the participants, she finds it in doing the craft, as this will give them difficult at her first try of the beadwork, good result and good product, which but later enjoys and becomes more they could be proud of. familiar with how to do it right.

“I am optimistic that they could

“At first I really find it difficult, finish and create their own craft after but was able to cope with the this training-workshop. I understand it techniques to make my work easier would be difficult for them at their first and enjoyable,” said Mahinay. try, but rest assured that they could use this skill in their livelihood and extra

Ging Abella, who is a teacher income,” said Bae Suyam. from a public senior high school in the city also enjoyed the embroidery, Meanwhile, Lilita Missionand find it as a good source of extra Concon, supervising administrative income. officer of Butuan National Museum stressed that such activity helps a lot

“This is fun. I wanted to learn this in promoting the welfare and culture more so I could also have this as my of the IP community, and this kind of extra income,” Abella said. event will continue not only in this city but in the whole of Caraga region.

Having seen the participants’ (JPG/PIA-Caraga) efforts in showing their creativity as

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DA, PIA forge partnership for agri program info drive

By Nora L. Molde

BUTUAN CITY – With the aim to heighten community awareness on the programs of the Department of Agriculture (DA), a talakayan in partnership with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga dubbed as Caraga INFOcus: Agri Hour was launched Monday.

Its pilot episode centered on Republic Act 11203 or Rice Tariffication Law, “An Act Liberalizing the Importation, Exportation and Trading of Rice, Lifting for the Purpose the Quantitative Import Restriction of Rice, and for other purposes” with guests from the DA and Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) located in the municipality of RTR in Agusan del Norte.

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The talakayan’s first episode focused on Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Program (RCEP) – Seed component. DA Caraga Assistant Regional Director Nestor Burgos expressed his gratitude to the organizers for coming up with the kind of Talakayan, an effective platform to bring the information to the community.

Burgos is positive that with this kind of talakayan, the programs of the agency such as the newly-enacted rice

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Regional News I Empowering Communities

tarrification law will be fully disseminated will also increase the utilization of to the intended beneficiaries. certified inbred rice seeds in areas with high potential for increasing farmers’

“Rice tariffication law will help competitiveness,“ said Nemeño. make our farmers become competitive and will help improve their quality of life,” Nemeño, further, said that farmers Burgos said. It has different components, may avail of the fund, but they should to include: the Mechanization, Seed, be a member of an organization/group.

Extension and also Loan component, Funding support/assistant to farmers will he said. only be released if they are organized as a group. “Nobody will be left out

Meanwhile, Dr. Genevive even if they only own a portion of farm Nemeño, Supervising Science Research lands. A 40kgs seed will be allotted to Specialist of PhilRice, said the RCEP – them per hectare,” she assured.

Seed component will help increase the adoption of certified inbred rice Also, Marisa Garces, DA Caraga seeds and its corresponding integrated Rice Program Focal Person, said their crop management. It will also improve agency will not just look on how they the quality, availability of and access are going to assist the farmers but they to certified inbred rice seeds of our will also make sure that all qualified farmers, she said. farmers can avail of the services of the agency. (NCLM/PIA Caraga)

“The RCEP Seed component

Army presents 121 newly enlisted privates

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY - The 402nd Brigade, Philippine Army presented the 121 newly enlisted privates who will be assigned in the different units of Caraga region.

Forty-five of them are coming from the Indigenous Peoples (IP) community who underwent the rigid training and passed the Candidate Soldier Course (CSC) of the Philippine Army, just like the other regular quota soldiers.

and tribal leader of the Mamanwa tribe in Jabonga, Agusan del Norte, who was once a member of the Militia ng Bayan and later surrendered to the government, his perspective in life has changed and he became appreciative of how the government works for the For Private Bobong Pinao, a datu welfare of the people while undertaking

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as well the very essence of the training of firearms to the newly-enlisted with the rest of the troops. privates held at Camp Bancasi, Butuan City, assistant regional director Donald

He added that he is now more Seronay of the Department of the confident and committed to serve the Interior and Local Government (DILG) country by protecting the people from Caraga said that more programs and the harmful and abusive New People’s projects would be poured out to the Army (NPA). communities in partnership with the Philippine Army.

Also, Private Roel Galarosa from Misamis Oriental shared that it is a Meanwhile, Col. Maurito Licudine, great opportunity and a challenge for commander of 402nd Brigade, stressed him being an enlisted personnel of the that they will give due attention to some Philippine Army, that he could do his conflict-affected areas in their area of duties and responsibilities as expected. responsibility, and having these newly enlisted privates is of great help.

“To be part of the enlisted personnel in the Philippine Army is a The official also hopes that great privilege. I would do my best to these privates would maintain goodserve and protect the people,” said grooming, live a modest life, and Galarosa. become financially stable and be able to help their families. (JPG/PIA During the ceremonial entrustment Caraga)

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Student-volunteers urge other youths to try sailing as sport

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY - The Balangay Marina Sailing and Yacht Club (BMSYC) was formally launched in this city. The club comprised the boat owners and student-volunteers who aim to revive the lost sailing culture in the city, and be inspired by

the hard work of the seafarers as they perform their duties.

The club has targeted some 20 oz-goose boats, ten of these are readily available and can be used by the students, and even the tourists.

And these boats can be found at Saint Joseph Institute of Technology (SJIT) Maritime Academy in Barangay Cubicubi, Nasipit, Agusan del Norte.

According to Captain Gilbert Maturan, founder of said club, they are working closely with the academe sector as they opt to have this integrated in the educational system in the country, and incorporate in the curriculum of the schools’ maritime program, to allow

students have a better understanding and appreciation of the country’s rich maritime history, culture and heritage, as well as enhance their skills especially for those who wanted to join sailing competitions here and abroad.

Herobill Jardio and Queen Valerie Daclan are among those students who wanted to become seafarers. And with the boats provided by the club, they are optimistic that they too will become more skilled and able to perform the tasks well applying useful techniques.

“I am encouraging my peers to be

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Regional News I Empowering Communities appreciative of what seafarers do and also try it as a sport. It brings a different kind of happiness as you will discover the beauty of the ocean as you sail,” said Daclan.

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as the land of the Balangay boats – the first ever watercraft discovered in the country.

Meanwhile, the local government unit of Nasipit, Agusan del Norte and

“I am delighted that we have other nearby municipalities in the region this in our school, so my skills would be have also expressed their support to the enhanced as we will learn more about club. sailing and the opportunities it has to offer to us, aspiring seafarers,” added Capt. Maturan hopes that the Jardio. whole Caraganons would also explore and experience the wonders in sailing.

The city of Butuan has been known (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Geo-SAFER Mindanao to strengthen ties with partner stakeholders in Caraga for infra dev’t

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY - To better facilitate planning for any fitted infrastructure project in Caraga region, the Geo-Informatics for the Systematic Assessment of Flood Effects and Risks toward a Resilient (Geo-SAFER) Mindanao Program vowed to intensify their linkage to various stakeholders thru constant communication and consultations for infrastructure development.

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Dr. Enrico Paringit, executive director of the Department of Science and Technology -Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD) elaborated that the Geo-SAFER Agusan led by the Caraga State University (CSU) is geared towards achieving this endeavor.

“This initiative would be of great help and advantage to the Caraganon - stakeholders, especially the local government units for any plan of infra development, since they need not to go to other places outside the region for consultation services,� said Paringit.

on how to utilize the flood hazard maps using the new technology.

Meanwhile, Engr. Meriam Santillan, dean of College of Engineering and Information Technology of CSU in Butuan City said, they are very willing and ready to help the different sectors in its aim to transform the city and

The official added that there the region as a whole for sustainable will be a roll-out of technologies or development. showcasing of technologies sometime in July 2019, of which most of these are It can be recalled that the Geocreated in Caraga and could be used SAFER Mindanao has officially turnedby Caraganons. over the detailed flood hazard maps to different LGUs in Caraga region. This

The Geo-SAFER Mindanao will would also serve as guide for the LGUs also conduct trainings for the local in their future infra developments. (JPG/ government units to equip them more PIA-Caraga)

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

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500 AgSur farmers to benefit from P5.5-M worth of FMEs

By Rechel D. Besonia

SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur – Four Agrarian Reform Beneficiary Organizations (ARBO) were hopeful about their future after the P5.5-million worth of Farm Machineries and Equipment (FME) which was formally turned-over in a ceremony held recently at the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) provincial office in San Francisco, this province.

The provision of farm equipment Purpose Cooperative in Bayugan City. is expected to serve more than 500 hundred farmers in municipalities of Chief Agrarian Reform Program Loreto, Bunawan and Bayugan City.

Officer Fe Mosquera said that the farm machines were given as grant which

“These farm implements will help will be operated by the organization as farming easier for our beneficiaries business assets where corresponding that will eventually improve farm fees from the users will be collected productivity and increase household and utilized for the operation and income in a sustainable manner,” said maintenance of the farm equipment.

PARPO II Leoncio Bautista, Jr.

“This scheme will be beneficial

Bautista said that the equipment to both the farmer-user and the includes three units of farm tractor which organization. The user can avail the were given to Katipunan Agricultural machine at much lesser cost than Farmers Association in Bayugan City, usual while the organizations grow by Hagnaya Agro Fishery Association engaging into agri-business enterprises,” in Bunawan and Johnson Farmers she said.

Consumers Cooperative in Loreto as well as one unit of a combine harvester Assistant regional director for which was given to Saguma ARBs Multi- operations Cenon Original, lauded the

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DAR Agusan Sur employees for the hard because this time, we received work and dedication. the equipment that we have been dreaming for such a long time),” he

“This is an evidence of a said. dedicated service of DAR employees to our clienteles for the past 31 years of Present during the turn-over CARP implementation,” he said. were ARDO Cenon Original, PARPO II Leoncio C. Bautista Jr, PARPO I Allan N.

The turnover ceremony started Mundala, CARPO Fe H. Mosquera and with a mass and blessing of FMEs, the chairpersons of the four recipient followed by the cutting of ribbons and ARBOs together with their respective turning over of certificates and keys to MARPOs. the recipient ARBOs.

Bostalino Pastor, chairperson of the JOFACCO said that he is grateful for DAR that the cooperative became one of the recipients of one 4WD farm tractor.

“Dako kaayo akong gibati nga kalipay atol sa 31st anniversary sa ahensya sa DAR tungod niining panahona naangkon namo ang among gihandum nga ekipo sa dugay na nga panahon (My big thanks to DAR in celebration of their 31st anniversary

The distribution of these FMEs is under the Climate Resilient Farm Productivity Support Project of DAR, which is implemented in Agrarian Reform Areas (ARCs) and non-ARCs having identified to be vulnerable to climate change to enhance and sustain agricultural productivity being the primary means of livelihood as adaptation towards resiliency amid the impacts of the changes in climate.

(DAR-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

DA Caraga empowers barangay officials as partners in agri-development

By Rhea Abao

BUTUAN CITY - To promote agricultural development in the region, the Department of Agriculture (DA) Caraga continues to build a partnership with the local government units to support farming endeavors.

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Provincial News I Empowering Communities T. Presilda.

During the forum, topics on how to avail of DA services and interventions were thoroughly d i s c u s s e d .

Information on training and E-Learning from the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) was also shared while Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation gave The Department recognized that inputs on Crop and Livestock Insurance. barangays served as the primary unit of Philippine Coconut Authority also gave government where basic services are their share of topics to shed light on the being delivered to constituents. programs for coconut farmers.

As such, DA highlights the need to empower barangay officials of its programs, projects, and services and inform them how to avail of the agriinterventions.

From the information he acquired, Barangay Kagawad Mateo P. Diango is now interested to attend agri-related seminars.

“As a Kagawad handling Committee on Agriculture, it is important for me to be aware of the programs of the DA and its attached agencies so that I can guide the farmers in our barangay,” he said.

A total of 306 punong barangays and barangay kagawads handling Committee on Agriculture participated in the recently conducted Information Awareness Caravan dubbed agribarangayan - a dialogue with barangay officials from Butuan City and Agusan The Agri-Barangayan part of del Norte. the campaign aims to bring the government closer to the people.

“DA’s desire is to empower the barangay officials with information With the positive feedbacks for them to become active partners gathered from the first leg, DA’s Agriin agricultural development in their Barangayan will soon cover other respective areas of responsibility,” said provinces in the region. (DA Caraga/ Regional Information Officer Emmylou PIA Agusan del Norte)

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43 SurSur PWDUs finish skills training

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – A total of 43 Persons Who Use Drugs (PWUDs) in Surigao del Sur successfully graduated the five-day skills training program initiated by the Police Provincial Office (PPO) headed by Police Col. Francisco Dungo.

The implementation of the said program was in collaboration with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), the provincial government, and the local government units concerned.

Camp Vicente L. Pimentel Sr. in Telaje, Tandag City.

Escobal added, that TESDA headed by Provincial Director Rey Cueva provided the technical support during the duration of the

According to TESDA Specialist implementation of the said program.

Lee Escobal, the program, dubbed as project “PAGLAUM,” which stands The PWUD beneficiaries were all for “Pagbag-o Alang sa Lamdag Ug Surigaonons with ages ranging from 18Malambuon Nga Kaugmaon” (Change 54 years old. for a Brighter and Progressive Future), kicked-off last June 24, 2019.

The participants were also provided with the toolkits during the

Escobal said the PWUDs undergo closing ceremony for them to start for the Small Engine Repair/Motor their livelihood, Escobal concluded.

Mechanic training at the PPO based in (PIA-Surigao del Sur)

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PNP, Army enhance skills to effectively communicate to grassroots

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY - Eighty-six personnel from the Philippine National Police (PNP) with the Philippine Army have jointly enhanced their writing skills thru the Basic Journalistic Writing lectureworkshop conducted by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga held recently at the Police Regional Office (PRO) 13.

Said activity was aimed to update the civil relations units of the two agencies on several techniques and strategies to effectively communicate to the locals in various communities of the AFP and PNP’s area of responsibility in regions 10 and Caraga, and a way to intensify their advocacy efforts against the Communist Party of the Philippines – News People’s Army – National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) and insurgency.

for the army as they intensify the implementation of community support program with the PNP.

Go added that this too formed part of the implementation of the ‘whole of nation’ approach, which ensures continuous delivery of the basic services, needs, as well as in disseminating relevant accomplishments on peace and development efforts of the law enforcement agencies to the public to make them well-informed citizens.

According to Major Regie Go, public affairs officer of 4th Infantry Capt. Ryan Layug, civil military Division (4ID), Philippine Army, this operations officer of the 403rd Brigade skills enhancement is of great help in Bukidnon, region 10, also revealed

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that more civilians particularly those towards peace and development, and in conflict-affected areas are already we hope to work with them in different expressing support to the AFP and help community activities,” said Layug. maintain peace and order.

Meanwhile, Police Lt.Col. Christian

Several communities have also Rafols II, chief public information officer declared the CPP-NPA-NDF as persona of PRO13 emphasized the need for non-grata. this skills enhancement to effectively counter the lies and propaganda

“Locals in various communities circulated by the communist-terrorist have warmly accepted the Army and groups or the CPP-NPA-NDF that had the PNP’s CSP and their support and caused conflict and insurgency. (JPG/ active participation is a big factor PIA-Caraga)

Agusan Norte leaders converge in stakeholders’ security forum

By Cpt Francisco P Garello Jr,

BUTUAN CITY - Local leaders in the province of Agusan del Norte have converged for a Stakeholders Security Forum on July 5, 2019 held at the 402nd Infantry Brigade headquarters in Brgy Bancasi, this city.

The Stakeholders Security Forum 1st district representative Maria was an initiative of Agusan del Norte Angelica Rosedell Amante-Matba in

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partnership with the 402nd Brigade led by Brigade Commander Col. Maurito Licudine.

The forum intends to apprise the local chief executives (LCEs) and key decision makers on the nature, developments and impact of the insurgency situation vis-a-vis the government’s internal security operations and elicit support and commitment in achieving peace the issues and concerns affecting the and inclusive development in their political and security environment in respective areas. the province.

In response to the call to unite and support the Whole of Nation Approach embodied in the Executive Order 70, the local leaders of the province led by the newly-elected governor Dale Corvera, and the LCEs of the city and municipalities to include mayor Judy C. Amante of Cabadbaran City; Napoleon M. Montero of Jabonga; Aristotle E. Motante of Kitcharao; Richard P. Daquipil of Remedios T. Romualdez; Franklin D. Lim of Santiago; and Fidel E. Garcia, Jr. of Tubay together with the police and DILG officials attended the event.

The convergence has generated a unified voice among the local leaders to support and commit in addressing the security problem.

It also tackled the situations of the IP being the most vulnerable target of the exploitation and abuse by the CPPNPA Terrorist.

“As the governor of the province, I am committing full support to the efforts to address the insurgency problem,” Gov. Corvera declares along with the six LCEs assuring their unwavering support to the AFP and PNP and in working together for the peace and

The officials were informed development initiatives. (Cpt Francisco regarding the security situation in the P Garello Jr, CMO Officer, 402IB/PIA brigade’s area of responsibility stressing Agusan del Norte)

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MINDANAO NEWS

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DA project to raise durian productivity

By Che Palicte

DAVAO CITY - A local durian industry council here commended the project of the Department of Agriculture in Region 11 (DA11) dubbed as the “The Durian 500 Program”, which seeks to increase the productivity of the “king of fruits” not only in the city but the entire Davao Region as well.

Launched in May, the Durian 500 Program is a collaboration between the City Agriculturist Office (CAO) and DA-High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP) that aims to expand to 500 hectares the durian plantations in tribal communities here.

assistance to Miculob said.

the

local

farmers,”

Targetting about 78,000 durian fruit trees to be planted, Miculob added that the chosen land in Baguio District is one of the highly suitable areas for durian plantation due to its climate and

In a press conference Monday, rich volcanic soil.

Candelario Miculob, president of the Davao Durian Industry Development Based on the data of DDIDC, Council (DDIDC), said the program Region 11 has 6,000 hectares of durian has enabled farmers to plant more farm that can produce around 40 durian seedlings within the 500-hectare tons--half of this from this city’s durian farmland. production.

“DA-11 and CAO provided the “The council is looking at other seedlings, training and marketing potential planting areas in Paquibato,

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Calinan, Tugbok, Toril and portion of is expected that the prices will increase Marilog District,” Miculob said. in the market,” he said.

But Miculob admitted that the volume of durian production this year is expected to slow down due to the long dry spell.

According to DA-11, the Durian 500 Program will link durian produce of tribal communities with the buyers and respond to the growing demand in the export market, particularly in China.

“With the limited supply of durian, it (PNA)

Mindanao still a safe destination: DOT exec

By Azer Parrocha

MANILA - Mindanao remains a safe place to visit, a tourism official said on Wednesday.

Department of Tourism (DOT) dangerous times ahead” particularly in Assistant Secretary Roberto Alabado Sulu and Basilan Islands.

III made this remark after President Rodrigo R. Duterte warned of “very Alabado said the agency will

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always abide with the President, good indicator that tourists continue to however, noted that there were visit Mindanao. several areas in Mindanao that are not “troubled”.

“It’s full of attractions and destinations now we would like all

“Regional offices (in Mindanao) Filipinos to come visit Mindanao and are doing good efforts introducing all of see another culture,” Alabado said. the good parts of what the destinations have to offer,” Alabado said in an More routes economic briefing in Malacañan Palace.

There are also measures being taken to fan interest of investors in

“If you go to Zamboanga, I don’t establishing direct routes to the Davao think it’s a troubled area. I would International Airport, the international encourage our Filipino tourists to visit gateway to Mindanao.

Zamboanga and you will be pleasantly surprised how the pink beach of Santa ”We see that there’s a renewed Cruz island is,” he added. interest in establishing direct routes to our international gateway in Mindanao

Doubled efforts and the Department of Tourism Routes Development Team is busy talking

Alabado, meanwhile, emphasized to these carriers to consider Davao that regional offices are also doubling International Airport as one of the efforts to change the perception of a destinations,” Alabado said.

Mindanao that has been under martial rule since the May 2017 Marawi siege.

“They are busy talking to all of these chartered flights to establish more

“(It’s) doubled because we are routes going to Mindanao. That would working on changing a perception. be a key action needed to have more That’s why we are here to show you people visit Mindanao,” he added. what is actually real on the ground,” Alabado said.

At present, there are four international connections to Davao

“What we’re looking at right including Singapore-Davao (Silkair), now, there are some safe places but Jinjiang-Davao (XiamenAIr), Hongthere are places in Mindanao where Kong Davao (Cathay Dragon), and the (travel) advisories are better,” he Qatar-Davao (Qatar Airways). added.

Davao is known for various tourist

Alabado said domestic tourism attractions including the Mt. Apo, is going very well with hotels in Davao the Philippine Eagle Center, and the City always “fully-booked” which is a Crocodile Park, among others. (PNA)

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NATIONAL NEWS

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SEC. MARTIN ANDANAR PCOO

NEWS CORNER

Andanar cites dev’t efforts under second half of Duterte’s term

So far, based on the assessment of the economic and business cluster as well as rating agencies that we have talked with, they are optimistic that Philippines will achieve upper middle class status by 2022,” the secretary said.

He also mentioned the Build Build Build infrastructure program which complements poverty reduction by generating jobs.

Under the Duterte administration, Andanar said the country will have an underground train system in Metro Manila, as well as train station from Tutuban to Clark.

Lastly, he underscored the PRESIDENTIAL Communications importance of peace and order in Operations Office Secretary Martin the development process.

Andanar cited the significant development efforts that will happen “One of the President’s aim is under the second half of President to end the communist insurgency Rodrigo Duterte’s administration. in the country. You cannot have a

progressive nation that is always in

In a recent visit in Pampanga, strife, always at war, especially in the Andanar said there are three things countryside,” Andanar said. that will form part of the Duterte legacy in the next three years.

Specifically, the PCOO chief mentioned poverty alleviation and the government’s vision for the Philippines to achieve upper middle class status by 2022.

“Duterte’s promise is to bring down the poverty rate from 21 percent to 14 percent by the end of his term.

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Duterte’s priority bills will be easier to pass under ‘super majority’ in Congress – Andanar

By Argyll Cyrus Geducos Communications Secretary Martin Andanar expressed optimism that President Duterte’s legislative priorities will be passed easier as the 18th Congress is going to be dominated with allies of the administration.

development, and peace and order.

“Maaasahan po natin for the next three years ay masusuportahan po ang mga programa ni Presidente dahil nga super majority ang mga kakampi natin sa Kongreso (We can expect

Andanar made the statement as that the President’s priority programs the Executive Department prepared for will be supported because of the super the upcoming fourth State of the Nation majority),” he said.

Address (SONA) of the President this month.

Andanar said that Duterte has not lost his sights on his objective to bring

With senators and congressmen down the poverty rate from 21 percent backed by President Duterte starting their to 14 percent by 2022. first regular session after Duterte’s SONA, Andanar is expecting the continuity of “Nandyan ‘yung mga the administration’s cornerstone reforms. imprastrakturang dapat matapos. At nandyan din po ang peace and order

“Sabi nga nila, ‘super majority’ na matapos na ang (We still have the na ang tawag dito. Kung noong 2016, upcoming infrastructure projects and the 2017, at 2018 ay naipatupad po at peace and order after the) communism nasuportahan ang mga legislative insurgency sa (in the) countryside,” agenda ni Presidente, eh what more Andanar said. “Itong lahat pong ito ay ngayon na buong-buo po ang suporta asahan niyong tututukan ng gobyerno ng koalisyon kay Presidente sa Kongreso (You can expect that the government (They all this the ‘super majority.’ If the will work on it),” he added.

Congress supported the President’s legislative agenda for the past three Andanar also said that the last years, what more now that the Congress three years of President Duterte in office supports the President)?” he said over will be about protecting and building his state-run Radyo Pilipinas. legacy.

Meanwhile, Andanar said that the last three years of the Duterte administration will ramp up socioeconomic initiatives to mitigate extreme poverty. He said these programs will focus on poverty alleviation, infrastructure

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“The last three years will be about: first, protecting the Duterte legacy na nagawa na po nang mga nakaraang taon (which we have done already in the previous years). Secondly, building the final Duterte legacy,” he said.

06 - 12 July 2019

National News I Empowering Communities

Duterte admin to remain service-driven amid high ratings

By Filane Mikee Cervantes

MANILA - Senator Christopher “Bong” Go on Wednesday said the administration remains committed to delivering continued service for the betterment of all Filipinos amid President Rodrigo Duterte’s record-high satisfaction rating in the latest Social Weather Survey.

“Sabi nga ni Pangulo, trabaho lang siya. Sa mga nakontento po sa kanyang trabaho, maraming salamat po sa inyong suporta kay Pangulong Duterte at sa kanyang administrasyon.

Sa amin po, tuloy lang ang pagtulong at ang serbisyo para sa bawat Pilipino (The President said he will just do his job. Those who were satisfied with his performance, thank you for supporting President Duterte and his administration.

“Sa mga hindi naman po kuntento at hindi satisfied sa kanyang pamamalakad, sabi ni Pangulong Duterte magtatrabaho pa po siya nang maigi para sa ating bayan (For those who are not contented and satisfied with his performance, President Duterte said he would work harder for the nation),” Go added.

Go said the President is taking criticisms in stride and would continue what he is doing for the development of the country.

An SWS survey conducted on June 22-26 found that 80 percent of adult Filipinos are satisfied, 9 percent undecided, and 12 percent dissatisfied

Halfway through his term, Duterte’s net satisfaction rating soared to a new record high, with four of five

For us, we would just continue to Filipinos saying they are contented with help and serve every Filipino),” he said. his work.

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06 - 12 July 2019

with the performance of the country’s up to 100 percent. It is possible that the first leader from Mindanao. percentage would exceed or would be less than 100 percent, especially

While the SWS figures sum up in rating-type questions, assessment to 101 percent, percentage points surveys, or multiple questions survey reflected in surveys do not always add forms. (PNA)

‘911 TESDA’ app orientation draws 400 TVIs

By Ma. Cristina Arayata

MANILA – Technical Education and Skills Development Authority - National Capital Region (TESDA-NCR) on Wednesday gathered representatives from 400 technical vocational institutions (TVIs) to orient them about the “911 TESDA” app that will be launched on July 18, and to ask them to encourage their graduates to register for this.

Five digital online service providers TESDA-NCR director Conrado Bares (DOSPs) also joined them at Hotel H20 to earlier told the Philippine News Agency demonstrate how the app works.

(PNA) that having this app aims to help TESDA graduates find employment or

The “911 TESDA” app would livelihood, and help them augment their basically function like Grab and Uber, but income. instead of rides, one would ask services from TESDA graduates.

Furthermore, the app would make it more convenient for the public, those

The TVIs’ role is to encourage who need services, to find workers, he TESDA graduates from 2017 to apply to said. be accredited by partner DOSPs.

The agency recently signed

The DOSP and the graduate will partnership with at least seven DOSPs have an agreement on how things would for this app. According to these DOSPs, work. DOSPs would screen the workers 42,000 people in NCR need the services they would send to those who would be of certified TESDA graduates. Among needing services. the in-demand services are massage, carpentry, housekeeping, programming

When someone taps the app to and call center. ask for service, the DOSP would look for the registered worker nearest the vicinity.

Meanwhile, upon launching TESDA graduates have the option to the app on July 18, this will initially be work with the DOSP either full time or part available in NCR. TESDA also plans to time, depending on their availability. make this available nationwide. (PNA)

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