Caraga InFocus – July 8-14, 2017

CONTENTS

Volume 1, No. 67 08 - 14 July 2017

ASEAN NEWS

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DTI leads ASEAN 2017 MSME Development Summit FEATURE: ASEAN Youth Forum: Engaging future leaders to be partners for change

REGIONAL NEWS

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PHL welcomes arrival of 67 new US peace corps volunteers CSU honors 2017 scholars DILG 13 reminds LGUs to prepare for the rainy season

COVER Shining a light on safety in SurSur

OWWA Caraga now accepts applicants for EDSP Butuan completes water resource projects

PROVINCIAL NEWS

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SurSur to conduct IDP dialogue in Lianga SurSur LGU strengthens peace, dev’t efforts in conflict-affected areas AgNor PDRRMC to hold radio operators forum

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DAR Agusan Norte agrarian-beneficiaries get ‘Tulay ng Pangulo’ Army joins LGU-led medical mission in AgSur AgSur town joins 2017 Nutrition Month celeb MGB-13 targets more LGUs for coastal geohazard assessment Tubajon celebrates 48th founding anniversary

HEALTH NEWS

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Feature: What can exercise do for you?

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Minda: No investment slowdown in Mindanao

MINDANAO NEWS NATIONAL NEWS

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DSWD releases supplemental guidelines for awarding of incentives to deceased centenarians OFWs assured of assistance

News Briefs Sec. Martin Andanar of PCOO underscored that President Rodrigo Duterte has been committed to support uniformed personnel by all means as they implement the government’s campaign against illegal drugs in the country.

A total of 150 Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARB) from 10 ARB Organizations within the SIBAE (Sibagat, Bayugan, Esperanza) and Loreto-La Paz Agrarian Reform Community were trained on Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) Principles and Practices in four separate batches within the second quarter of 2017 held at Mabe’s Savory Place, San Francisco, Agusan del Sur.

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) thru its Government Internship Program (GIP) has allotted a total of 67 slots for the local government unit of Bislig City.

The provincial government of Agusan del Norte is now regulating the sale, manufacture, distribution and use of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices in the province.

The Department of Energy (DOE) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) signed today a circular to guide electric cooperatives on a unified mechanism concerning relocation of their power facilities affected by government construction.

Cover Story

Shining a light on safety in SurSur By: April Mae N. Waban & Marko Davey D. Reyes

A

smile as bright as the sun lit up the faces of barangay officials and community volunteers of Antao, Carmen, Surigao del Sur as they gleefully show their newly-installed 28 units solar powered street lights.

The sub-project amounting to P933,760 was completed through the concerted efforts of the community and funded through the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD’s) Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS) program.

For several years, residents of Barangay Antao relied on gas lamps and regular light bulbs not just to light up their homes but also their streets at night. Although they had existing street lights, these were only installed in Purok 5 which is one of the most interior parts of the barangay.

Since the barangay had a limited budget or Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) share, there would not be enough resources to fund the installation of

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08 - 14 July, 2017

Cover Story street lights to all 6 Puroks. As night falls, roads and other pathways in the barangay become less visible and accessible thereby increasing the risk of accidents and crimes.

In fact, robbery after dark was not uncommon in the village as offenders take the opportunity of the lightless streets, thus, their barangay officials decided to enforce a curfew.

However, this was not still enough to ensure the safety of the residents.

They thought improving their street lighting would help them address this.

When the Kalahi-CIDSS program came into their municipality, the community lobbied the street lights project as the program uses the Community Driven Development (CDD) approach.

Kalahi-CIDSS’ CDD approach helps strengthen community participation by providing opportunities for communities to partake in community development activities.

With this approach, communities are made to determine their needs, recommend a solution to answer these and implement the sub-projects themselves. Barangay Antao was one of the barangays chosen for prioritization with their proposed subproject. Now, with their improved street lighting, about 236 households in barangay are expected to benefit from safer streets and prevent accidents during the night. (Social Marketing Unit/DSWD Field Office Caraga/PIACaraga) 08 - 14 July, 2017

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Secretary Martin M. Andanar Presidential PCOO Sec. Andanar’s visit to Butuan City

14 July Press Con

Provincial C Governor’s Conferenc

Communications Operations Office (PCOO)

y 2017 nference

Capitol Bldg., ce Room, Butuan City

PCO Net Meeting

Provincial Capitol Bldg., Governor’s Conference Room, Butuan City

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ASEAN News

DTI leads ASEAN 2017 MSME Development Summit

MAKATI - The Philippines through the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), conducted yesterday (July 13) the ASEAN 2017 MSME Development Summit at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), Manila, the Philippines.

The Summit placed the interests of MSMEs at the center of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) agenda and putting together the MSME advocates, mentors, enablers and business experts from the ASEAN region who can help develop, handhold, and empower the MSMEs and spread the economic fruits of the AEC dream.

With the theme, “The 7Ms Towards Shared Prosperity in ASEAN,” the DTI aims to gather insights from thought leaders and experts addressing the 7Ms that sum up the elements of the approach and framework for enabling and fostering the MSMEs.

“Through the 7Ms, we’ll empower the MSMEs so they can also share in 08 - 14 July, 2017

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ASEAN News the benefits of the ongoing economic growth, and improve the quality of their lives by engaging in vibrant entrepreneurial activities,” said DTI Secretary Ramon Lopez.

The seven-point strategy includes Mindset, Mastery, Mentoring, Markets, Money, Machines, and Models of Business. These will equip the entrepreneurs in making a difference in the market while contributing to the larger cause of sustaining the entrepreneurial revolution in ASEAN.

MSMEs are integral to the economic development and growth of the ASEAN region as they outnumber large enterprises in both quantity of establishments and share of the labor force they employ. The ASEAN MSMEs comprise the 95-99% of all business establishments, generating between 51% and 97% of employment.

“We are advocating the 7Ms of DTI Secretary Ramon Lopez in helping the entrepreneurs set up their businesses and be a smarter entrepreneur. And

this 2017, in time for the country’s hosting of ASEAN, we want to advance and mainstream the 7Ms in ASEAN region,” said DTI Regional Operations Group (ROG) Undersecretary Zenaida Maglaya.

More than 20 caliber speakers and panelists from ASEAN Member States (AMS) shared inspiring and valuable stories of leadership and entrepreneurial journey on various plenary discussions on Promoting MSME Development Mindset, Mastery and Mentoring Toward Competitiveness and Resilience, Accessing Domestic and Regional Markets, Overcoming Money Hurdles, and Machines and Proactive Business Models Toward Productive and Responsive MSMEs.

At the end of the Summit, prominent business stakeholders and key players provided support and recommended priority actions towards helping achieve economic prosperity in the region through MSME development.

(DTI/RJB/SDL/PIA-NCR)

ASEAN Youth Forum: Engaging future leaders to be partners for change By: Alma L. Tingcang

ZAMBOANGA CITY - The Philippines plays chair and host to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summits and activities as it marks its 50th Anniversary this year with the theme, “Partnering for Change, Engaging the World.”

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08 - 14 July, 2017

ASEAN News

Along this line, the Philippine Information Agency has embarked on awareness and information dissemination campaign in key cities and towns with the support of stakeholders including national government agencies.

Spearheaded by PIA in partnership with the Ateneo de Zamboanga University (ADZU) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), at least 200 youth leaders from 10 colleges and universities here joined the ASEAN Youth Forum held at Edmund Campion Hall, Ateneo de Zamboanga University on Wednesday, July 5.

The forum, aimed to bring significant ASEAN information to the youth from different colleges and universities, is expected to benefit the youth in terms of government, nongovernment programs and services such as but not limited to scholarships, educational tours, career and business opportunities, and cultural interaction, among others.

“Welcome to this very important and significant event, the first in Zamboanga City. This is the first I’ve known that youth from various schools gathered for something like this. This exercise is a war against apathy, against indifference,” said Dr. Robert Panaguiton, dean of the College of Liberal Arts, ADZU who welcomed the participants.

Each participating school chose 2 ASEAN youth ambassadors who wore traditional attire of their assigned countries, representing the 10 ASEAN member states, namely: Brent CollegeMyanmar; Immaculate Conception Archdiocesan School (ICAS) - Thailand; Pilar College - Cambodia; Southern City Colleges - Singapore; STI College Indonesia; Universidad de Zamboanga (UZ) – Laos PDR; Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) - Vietnam; Zamboanga City State Polytechnic College - Malaysia; Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology - Brunei Darussalam; and Ateneo de Zamboanga University – Philippines.

Southern City Colleges bagged the “Best Dressed Ambassadors” representing Singapore, which highlighted the ASEAN forum.

Roderic Trio, Mark Saavedra and Joseph Lou Sta. Teresa, alumni of the Ship for Southeast Asian Youth Program (SSEAYP) shared their challenging learning experiences and told participants to take courage in applying for a slot considering that the number of applicants for Zamboanga City has been dwindling in the past year.

Joseph Lou Sta. Teresa encouraged participants to apply for the SSEAYP. “Don’t be intimidated with the requirements. Once you accomplish it, madali na yan. The process is fun.

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ASEAN News

During the interview, just be yourself.

Raymond Domingo of the Be honest with all your answers,” he National Youth Commission and Dr. advised.

Rody Garcia of CHED shared the programs, projects and other ASEAN

”Representing the country is both benefits for the students/youth in terms an honor and a responsibility. We have of education, as the panelists all joined to be inspired to make the Philippines in the interactive talk show. at par with its ASEAN neighbors,” said Mark Saavedra.

“We are gathered here because we want to fight apathy, indifference,

“Join us in the community of yung pagiging walang pakialam. knowing further what ASEAN is all about, let us start learning from each other, and you’re going to appreciate your empowering ourselves, knowing being a Filipino,” Roderic Trio urged things outside from us so that we will the youth, as he challenged them to become more engaged citizens take the opportunities available in the of the Philippines,” Dr. Panaguiton ASEAN while they are still eligible to do persuaded.

(ALT-PIA9/Zamboanga so.

Sibugay)

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Photo Gallery National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) Press Conference on Budayaw Festival Watergate Hotel, Butuan City 14 July 2017

Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Youth Forum

Provincial Training Center, Butuan City 10 July 2017

REGIONAL NEWS

PHL welcomes arrival of 67 new US peace corps volunteers

By: Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY – In time with the 2017 Philippine-American Friendship Week, 67 new United States (US) Peace Corps volunteers joined the family of more than 9,000 Americans who have served as volunteers in the Philippines since 1961, making the Philippines the second oldest with peace corps program.

Ranging from ages 21 to 69, these volunteers journeyed by bringing diverse experience, technical expertise, and spirited enthusiasm to learn about the Philippines as they embark on their new adventure.

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on Sunday, the volunteers started to undergo an intensive 10 and a half weeks of pre-service training covering technical skills, language, and cultural studies to prepare them for their service.

In partnership with the Department Immediately after their arrival of Education, the Department of 08 - 14 July, 2017

Regional News Welfare and Social Development, local government units, and nongovernmental organizations, the volunteers will be assigned to work for a period of 27 months in communities throughout the Philippines in the fields of education, youth development, and environment.

Inspired by President John F. Kennedy, the goal of the US Peace Corps in the Philippines is to promote peace and friendship of both nations as volunteers work side-by-side with Filipinos to help build better lives for their communities. (U.S. Embassy/ VLG/PIA-Caraga)

CSU honors 2017 scholars By: Ryan M. Tapayan

BUTUAN CITY - Around 200 Expanded/Students Grants’ in Aid Program for Poverty Alleviation (E/SGP-PA) scholar-graduates participated in the testimonial dinner organized and funded by the Caraga State University (CSU) Ampayon Campus held recently at Watergate Hotel, this city.

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Regional News

Along with the scholar graduates “The collaborative efforts of are their parents who were their various government agencies would inspiration in achieving their dreams. be meaningless without your hard work and perseverance. You are the

Aljun O. Padios, Cum Laude and products of your dreams. We are only a graduate of the degree Bachelor here to assist,” Jamen shared. of Science in Education major in Biology lauded the support of the “On behalf of our OIC Regional different collaborative agencies in the Director, I would like to congratulate implementation of the program. all the E/SGP-PA graduates for your success. Your success means success

“In behalf of the E/SGP-PA of all government efforts. Continue to scholars, I would like to extend dream big,” Jamen closed. my heartfelt gratitude to various government agencies for their The ESGPPA aims to contribute collaborative support in the in the increase of the number of implementation of this program. enrolment in higher education in Without it, we would not be able line with the national government’s to experience this success,” said priority degree programs among Padios. poor households, and support college graduates’ entry to labor markets

“An applause also to our parents through placement assistance. A who never fail to comfort us especially student-grantee receives a maximum when everything turns upside down. of P60,000.00 scholarship grant per Our parents remain our source of school year or consisting to P30,000.00 inspiration to continue despite all the per semester. trials in life,” Padios added.

This is broken down to P20,000

During the event, General per year for the tuition fee, and P5,000 Administration and Support Services per year for the textbooks and other Division (GASSD) Chief Ramel F. learning materials.The remaining Jamen of the Department of Social P35,000, which is distributed to P3,500 Welfare and Development (DSWD) per month, is allocated for the Caraga who represented DSWD stipend for the board and lodging, Caraga OIC Regional Director Mita transportation, clothing, health/ Chuchi Gupana-Lim , congratulated medical needs, basic school supplies the graduates for their perseverance and other related costs. (Social and hard work.

Marketing Unit/PIA-Caraga)

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Regional News

DILG 13 reminds LGUs to prepare for the rainy season By: Florian Faith Jr. P. Bayawa

BUTUAN CITY - As Vice Chair for Disaster Preparedness, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Regional Office 13 enjoins all local government units (LGUs) through their local chief executives (LCEs) to perform preparedness actions for the rainy season this year.

The DILG Central Office issued Memorandum Circular No. 2017-75 dated June 9, 2017 Re: 2017 La Niña Advisory and the DILG Regional Office issued a corresponding Memorandum bearing the same subject to remind LGUs to start making preparatory acts and corresponding set of initiatives to mitigate the impacts of flooding, landslides and other resulting hazards.

In view thereto, all LGUs are directed to prepare or update their respective La Niña Action Plan / Oplan Tag-ulan for CY 2017 and submit it to the DILG Regional Office for the La Niña Regional Action Plan. As such, LGUs are directed to convene their respective Local Disaster Risk Reduction Management Councils (LDRRMCs) and conduct Pre-Disaster Risk Assessments 08 - 14 July, 2017

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Regional News (PDRA), especially for flood-prone and As always, the DILG takes the lead landslide high-risk areas. in ensuring that LGUs are fully equipped with the necessary skills and capability

Further, LGUs are advised to to face and survive hazards, as well as closely coordinate with PAG-ASA for cope with the impact of disasters. With timely weather updates and with the the significance of such undertaking, Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) the matter was discussed during the for adequate information on the 2nd Disaster Preparedness Committee threat of flooding and rainfall-induced Meeting last June 23, 2017. (DILG 13/ landslides within their respective areas PIA-Caraga) of responsibility.

OWWA Caraga now accepts applicants for EDSP

BUTUAN CITY - The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) calls for direct dependents of active Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who shall enroll or currently enrolled in any four or five year baccalaureate course. For school year 2017-2018, the agency now accepts applications for the degree-granting scholarship programs.

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Regional News

The Education for Development Scholarship Program (EDSP) is a competitive grant given to the applicants who can ace the highly demanding examination administered by the Department of Science and Technology – Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI) where only the top 400 OWWA examinees nationwide will be awarded the scholarship.

With its revamped scheme, slots available for incoming freshmen have doubled to 400 compared to the 200 from the previous years. On top of that, 30 slots for Caraga are also available to those already in 2nd-5th year in college. Grantees shall receive a financial assistance of P30,000.00 per semester.

school years. Only 6 slots are available per province which totals to 30 slots for Caraga. Acceptance and approval shall be on a “first come, first served” basis.

To qualify as a dependent, the applicant must be a child of a married or unmarried OFW and/or brother or sister of an unmarried OFW and must be single.

The scholar will continue until the completion of the course regardless of subsequent status of OFW membership provided that the terms of the scholarship agreement are complied upon.

Deadline for filing of applications will be on July 15, 2017. Application forms are available at the OWWA Regional Welfare Office Caraga; their School Principal or Guidance Counselor (if available); PESO Office in the Local Government Units (Municipal and Provincial); and Active OFW Family Circle/ Organizations (OFCs). Filing and submission will be at the Regional Office only.

Applicants for incoming freshmen must be 21 years and below, single and a grade 12 senior high school student at the time of applications.

He/she must have a general weighted average not lower than B letter grade or 85% equivalence or higher and should belong to the top 20% of the graduating class duly certified by the School Principal. Furthermore, he/she must belong to the top 400 OWWA Interested applicants may qualifiers from the DOST-SEI national contact or visit the regional office for qualifying examination. any inquiry regarding the program.

OWWA Regional Office is located at

Those who are already enrolled in Nimfa Tiu Bldg., II J.P. Rosales Ave., this 2nd to 5th year must not be more than city. They may also call the contact 30 years old to qualify. The applicant numbers (085) 815-1894/342-6178 or must not have any grade lower than hotline numbers 09399259895 for smart B or 85% in ALL academic and non- and 09173150590 for globe. (JPIM/ academic subjects from the previous OWWA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga) 08 - 14 July, 2017

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Regional News

Butuan completes water resource projects

By: Regal C. Oribia

BUTUAN CITY – As part of the strategic framework to establish a sustainable water resource, the City Engineering Office Waterworks Section of the city government of Butuan bared per record the successful completion of two water resource projects in barangays Antongalon and Pinamanculan, this city.

A water pump amounting to P10,000 was put up for the Home for the Boys in barangay Antongalon to support their household, recreational and other needs for supply of water.

This is where the then street children were housed and taken cared of by the city government.

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electric motor pump with pressure tank that costs a total of P25,760 were installed at the Bood Promontory in barangay Pinamanculan.

Both projects are potentially useful in addressing the need for continuous supply and source of clean and safe water. (RCO/PIAAlso, water resource lines and Caraga) 25 FEBRUARY08 - 03 - 14 March July, 2017

Photo Gallery Secretary Martin M. Andanar Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Visit to Sutigao City 14 July 2017

SURIGAO DEL SUR

SurSur to conduct IDP dialogue in Lianga

By: Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – A community consultation dialogue that would discuss urgent pressing matters relative to the reported internally displaced persons (IDPs) from the upper communities in Photos courtesy of Fr. Raymond Ambray Lianga town is set on Wednesday, July 12, 2017 to be held at the Mayor’s Office Conference Room in Poblacion, Lianga, Surigao del Sur.

The local government unit of Lianga has invited the members of the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) – Conflict Management Cluster to join in the said dialogue. Some identified (selected) sectors are also invited that could contribute and take their part to help resolve the issues and concerns that would be raised by the local constituents specially the affected Indigenous Peoples (IPs).

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Manobo lumads from nine hinterland communities of Lianga fled their homes recently, fearing for the military operation and strict checkpoints conducted by government forces in the area.

Allegedly, the IPs noticed the presence of military helicopters and a bomber plane hovering around their villages in Andap Valley a day before they left their communities on July 6.

It can be recalled that some 2,000 (PIA-Surigao del Sur) 08 - 14 July, 2017

Provincial News

SurSur LGU strengthens peace, dev’t efforts in conflict-affected areas TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – The provincial government of Surigao del Sur convened for a quarterly meeting with the members of the Peace Development Oversight and Advisory Committee (PDOAC) on June 30, 2017 to appraise the functions of its members and relevance in addressing peace and development concerns in the conflict-affected areas in the province.

PDOAC Chairperson Governor Vicente Pimentel Jr was ably represented by Provincial Administrator Efren Rivas who presided the conference participated by the members of the PDOAC who are coming from the national government agencies, non-government organizations and provincial government frontline services department heads.

According to Rivas, the composition of PDOAC was based on the Executive Order # 16, Series of 2016 dated September 19, 2016 “Organizing PDOAC in the Province of this province.”

The

PDOAC,

accordingly,

act as harmonizing and advisory body that will exercise oversight functions.

It also looks into the specific details of the implementation of Peace and Development interventions through a Bayanihan Team Activities.

Also, during the activity, a total of 17 Former Rebels (FRs) who surrendered to Surigao del Sur in 2016 received the cash assistance from the provincial government worth P5,000.00 each and 4.5 kilos of rice thru the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, and assorted seeds from the Department of Agriculture. (PIAwill Surigao del Sur) 08 - 14 July, 2017

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AGUSAN DEL NORTE

AgNor PDRRMC to hold radio operators forum

By: Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY – In line with the month-long observance of the National Disaster Resilience Month (NDRM) , the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) of Agusan del Norte will conduct a 2-day radio operators forum on July 12-13 at the Provincial Training Center here.

PDRRMO chief Erma Suyo said the forum entitled “Agusan del Norte On Air” (ADNOA) is aimed to enhance the provinces’ radio communication capabilities especially during emergency operations where radio communications is needed.

“The role of radio communications

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during emergencies cannot be

and

disasters

This year’s NDRM observance is anchored on the theme “4Ks: Kamalayan sa Kahandaan, Katumbas ay Kaligtasan.” (NCLM/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Provincial News

DAR Agusan Norte agrarianbeneficiaries get ‘Tulay ng Pangulo’ By: Gil E. Miranda

BUTUAN CITY - The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) of Agusan del Norte headed by Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer Andre B. Atega, CESO V, conducted a site inspection of the two newlyconstructed bridges under the Tulay ng Pangulo Para sa Kaunlarang Agraryo Program (TPKP) located at Barangay Ampayon, this city and Barangay Sacol in Buenavista town, Agusan del Norte.

The project is part of DAR Secretary Rafael “Ka Paeng” Mariano’s commitment to respond to the needs of Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) in partnership with Department of Public Works and Highways-Bridges Management Cluster-Unified Project Management Office (DPWH-BMCUPMO).

load when concrete is fully seasoned,” Puy added.

The Ampayon Bridge linked from Barangay Ampayon through the CABATA ARC (Barangay Camayahan, Basag and Taligaman Agrarian Reform Community) in Butuan City and in Barangay Sacol Bridge now served as the link to neighboring barangays in

Engineer IV Norman I. Puy of Buenavista town where some agrarianDPWH-BMC-UPMO, said that the two beneficiaries inhabited. bridges installed in Barangay Ampayon, and Barangay Sacol have a total cost Municipal Agrarian Reform of P50 million or P25 million each under Program Officer Ester Cabalan of TPKP program of President Rodrigo Butuan City said that the projects that Duterte. linked the road network within the ARC barangays eventually lead to the

“The project installed has 28-lineal improvement of the economic welfare Uni-Bridge (Universal Bridge) included of more than a thousand of agrarian a 6.1 meters double-lane, a side-walk, reform beneficiaries at the community and a 30-meter approach on both level. (DAR-Agusan del Norte/PIAsides. The bridge can take a 40 Ton Agusan del Norte) 08 - 14 July, 2017

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AGUSAN DEL SUR

Army joins LGU-led medical mission in AgSur By: Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY – The 26th Infantry Battalion (IB), Philippine Army has recently joined in the medical caravan with the two local government units in La Paz and Talacogon, Agusan del Sur.

2Lt. Romel Arnado, Civil-Military Opertions (CMO) officer of 26IB bared that some 800 individuals from the two municipalities have benefitted in the medical check-up, circumcision and eye check-up with free reading eyeglasses

the medical mission, House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez extended cash assistance to the Indigenous Peoples (IP) communities in La Paz and Talacogon.

In his message, Alvarez gave emphasis on his current scholarship program to IP-youths, as well as the

“The medical mission in La Paz educational program of President was held in the morning on Saturday, Rodrigo Duterte. while afternoon in Talacogon. It was supported by the provincial Meanwhile, LTC Rommel Pagayon, government of Agusan del Sur through battalion commander of 26IB led the second district Representative Evelyn overall supervision and area security Plaza-Mellana, La Paz mayor Ambrosio operation in the two venues.

Lim, and Talacogon mayor Jezreel Masendo,” underscored Arnado.

The medical mission caravan was anchored on the theme: “Malasakit sa

Also, in time with the conduct of may Sakit.” (JPG/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

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Provincial News

AgSur town joins 2017 Nutrition Month celeb By: Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY - In line with the 2017 National Nutrition Month celebration, the local government of Talacogon in Agusan del Sur, along with other government agencies conducted a motorcade on Monday to increase awareness on healthy diet, prevent and reduce malnutrition, as well as non-communicable diseases among adults and children.

Mayor Jesryl Masendo graced the opening program held at the new gymnasium of Talacogon. He emphasized the importance of eating nutritional food to avoid having different kinds of diseases, as well as reduce overweight and obesity.

activities set by the government as they deliver the programs and services to the indigent populace in the area of operations.

For 2017, the selected focus of the Nutrition Month campaign is on the promotion of healthy diets with the

“Let us be conscious on the food theme “Healthy diet, gawing habit – that we eat, that aside from ensuring its FOR LIFE!” cleanliness, it should also have proper nutrition to keep us healthy and strong,” Nutrition Month is an annual expressed Masendo. campaign held every July to create greater awareness on the importance

Right after the program, feeding of nutrition among Filipinos. Presidential activity followed benefiting some 300 Decree 491 (1974) mandates the individuals.

National Nutrition Council (NNC) to lead and coordinate the nationwide

Also, 26IB commander LTC campaign. Throughout the years, Rommel Pagayon, one of its partners schools and local government units said the unit will remain a partner of as well as other stakeholders have local government units and national institutionalized the Nutrition Month government agencies and ensure a celebration. (JPG/PIA-Agusan del Sur) peaceful and order conduct of all the 08 - 14 July, 2017

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SURIGAO DEL NORTE

MGB-13 targets more LGUs for coastal geohazard assessment By: Rubenar L. Cagubcob

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte - The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) 13 carried on with its Coastal Geohazard Assessment under the National Geohazard Assessment and Mapping Program.

The outputs of the asessment are shoreline shift maps that will give the public substantial information on coastal areas or shorelines that are prone to erosion and accretion. Threat advisories per purok and technical reports are also included in the expected outputs.

For the first quarter of 2017, the target municipalities of MGB-13 were Barobo, Lianga, Hinatuan and Bislig City in Surigao del Sur.

As for the second quarter, the municipality of Del Carmen in Surigao del Norte was assessed on May 31 to

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June 7, 2017. The municipality of Socorro, Surigao del Norte will be assessed by the third week of June 2017.

The Philippines has one of the longest coastlines in the world with an estimated extent of 36,289 kilometers. Approximately 46 percent of the total population in the country resides in coastal areas, directly or indirectly relying on coastal resources as source of livelihood, habitation, and recreation. Many of the coastal areas are inherently vulnerable to coastal hazards – geographically or by geologic setting. (MGB XIII/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Provincial News

Tubajon celebrates 48th founding annivesary By: Susil D. Ragas

SAN JOSE, Dinagat Islands - The municipality of Tubajon in Dinagat Islands celebrated its 48th “Araw ng Tubajon” with the weeklong celebration form June 13 to 21, 2017.

This year’s celebration is anchored on the theme, “Tubajon: Sa hugot nga Liderato ug Panaghiusa, Kalambuan sa Turismo, Kultura, ug Kinaiyahan Makab-ot Ta.”

The weeklong celebration highlighted with the inauguration of the newly-constructed Municipal Hall and the conduct of inter-Barangay sports tournament and Tabo sa Lungsod Festival.

During the celebration, provincial vice governor Benglen B. Ecleo turned over development aid worth

P15,000 to Barangays Sta. Cruz and Roxas intended for their annual sports activities.

The celebration was graced by Sangguniang Panlalawigan ex-officio PCL president Annabelle Pelismino, board member RC Charlemagne Vargas and board member Antonio Ensoy with the full participation of the Department of Education (DepEd) Dinagat Islands schools division, municipal officials, barangay officials, students and residents of Tubajon town. (PIO-Dinagat Islands/PIA-Dinagat Islands) 08 - 14 July, 2017

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HEALTH NEWS

What can exercise do for you?

Is exercise important in your daily life? Do you still have time to exercise inspite of your busy schedule? Do you allot 20 to 30 minutes of your time to exercise?

Walking, running, bike riding, playing sports, dancing, doing pushups, and simple stretches, such as touching your toes or side stretches are simple exercises that you can enjoy doing.

When you exercise, you are helping build your body to be strong.

This will enable you to move around and do all the things you need and want to do.

Exercise has many benefits:

• It burns off energy thereby assisting weight control or reduction. It keeps your weight under control.

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08 - 14 July, 2017

• It also helps improve blood circulation, muscle tone and efficiency of heart and lungs.

• It also helps you to relax, cope with stress, and promotes sound sleep.

Health News When you exercise, it releases tension.

• Exercise enhances your psychological well-being, improves self-esteem, and maintains motivation.

In your busy days, what is the best exercise that you can do? Walking is perfect to burn your excess calories and fats. You do not need special equipment to exercise. You can incorporate exercise in your daily life by taking the stairs instead of using the elevator, going for a walk during your coffee break or lunch break ; doing household chores at a fast pace, and gardening.

To obtain the benefits of exercise, perform aerobic exercise regularly for at least 3 to 5 times a week for 20-30 For healthy body and mind, minutes or more. However, make sure to consult your doctor about what and exercise regularly! how much exercise is right for you.

For more information on food and nutrition, contact: Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department of Science and Technology, General Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City; Telephone/ Fax Nos: 837-2934 or 8373164; Direct Line:839-1839; DOST Trunk Line: 837-2071-82 local 2296 or 2284; e-mail: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph or at mar_v_c@yahoo.com; FNRI-DOST website: http://www.fnri.dost.gov.ph.

Like our Facebook page at facebook. com/FNRI.DOST or follow our Twitter account at twitter.com/FNRI_DOST. (Ma. Idelia G. Glorioso, DOST-FNRI S&T Media Service/PIA-Caraga) 08 - 14 July, 2017

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Photo Gallery NDRM DRRM Forum for Civil Society Organizations Provincial Training Center, Capitol Compound, Butuan City 7 July 2017

Agusan del Norte Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) RADIO OPERATORS FORUM Provincial Training Center, Capitol Compound, Butuan City 12-13 July 2017

MINDANAO NEWS

Minda: No investment slowdown in Mindanao

By: Digna D. Banzon

DAVAO CITY - The Mindanao Development Authority (Minda) sees no slowdown in investments and projects in Mindanao even as it remains optimistic to meet growth target amid the crisis in Marawi.

This, according to Minda assistant secretary Romeo Montenegro, who said that there has been no indication of slowing down or suspension of any investment projects on the island. In fact, there is also no report of production decline for agricultural exports from Mindanao.

generally “business as usual”, he said.

Montenegro said the business sector also plans to push specific efforts to bring back confidence of investors to do investments and economic activities in Mindanao.

He said they are reviving their efforts to undertake investment missions and trade promotion to provide an overall Mindanao situation because “what our potential investors might be reading abroad are stories that do not necessarily capture the full context of the island”.

“Across many areas of investments there had been no indicated slowdown or suspension of any investment projects resulting from the Marawi incident and there had been no specific reports of slowdown of production of many of our agri exports and some other products and the services sector,” he said.

Mindanao is going to be part of an investment promotion undertakings

But Montenegro admitted the of the Philippine Investment Promotion tourism is obviously affected. All other Program (PIPP), a group under the economic activities have remained purview of the Board of Investments of 08 - 14 July, 2017

33 33

Mindanao News the Department of Trade and Industry consisting of all investment promotion agencies in the country. Among them are Subic Bay, Clark Development and for Mindanao it will be composed of MinDA, the Autonomous Region for Muslim Mindanao, Board of Investment, and the Zambo Ecozone and others.

rest of Mindanao continues to promote for specific investments because the production side had not been affected for many of the economic activities.

He said this is an annual undertaking of the PIPP to roll out investment promotions activities in specific targeted markets.

Montenegro said more allocation of support from the national government is pursued for infrastructure projects and other related activities to sustain and meet targets.

For this month, Montenegro said, the group will be going to South Korea for investment promotion activities. “Our role there is to make sure that Mindanao is given a slot in terms of investment promotion activities and conduct briefing so that we will be able to convey the situation in Mindanao on its current context and the investment opportunity that remain vibrant and available despite of what has happened in Marawi.

Initiatives are being done in the light of pursuing more investments with an enabling environment conducive for growth in Mindanao.

Under the Mindanao Development Corridors Program, Montenegro said they are laying the ground for an enabling environment conducive to economic growth such as good roads for faster movement of our goods, commodities and people.

For 2017 as a result of joint planning and programming with MinDA and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Mindanao secured

Future activities will be conducted the approval of 25 projects particularly in August in Australia at Brisbane, in the areas of roads, bridges, and flood Sidney, and Melbourne, and Naning, control projects totalling PHP17 Billion.

China in September that anchor on the Philippines participation to the Annual A continuing allocation for 15 of China Asean Expo (CAEx). this year’s 25 approved projects for allocation in 2018 for a total of PHP12

He said every year Philippines Billion. has always been given an opportunity Montenegro said they have yet to to promote investment opportunities start joint planning and programming and this time around we would want with the Department of Transportation that Mindanao be part of the entire (DOTr) particularly on ports and airports message of investment promotion. development in Mindanao. (PNA)

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Meanwhile, Montenegro 08 - 14 July, 2017 said the

NATIONAL NEWS

DSWD releases supplemental guidelines for awarding of incentives to deceased centenarians MANILA - Supplemental guidelines on the implementation of Republic Act No. 10868 or the “Centenarians Act of 2006” has been released by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to cover deceased centenarians.

The newly released Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 11 Series of 2017 supports the previous DSWD MC No. 04 Series of 2017 which states the role of program implementers in granting the P100,000 cash incentive and Letter of Felicitation signed by the President or Posthumous Plaque of Recognition for senior citizens, whether in the Philippines or abroad, who reached 100 years old and were alive when the law took effect last June 15, 2016.

Based on the new supplemental guidelines, the Department through its concerned field office (FO) shall release the cash grant and posthumous plaque of recognition to the nearest surviving relative or the “estate” (one

File photo by Mau Victa

who designates the real or personal property in which one has a right of interest) of the deceased centenarian.

In order for the awards and grant to be released, the following requirements must be presented to the City/Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (C/MSWDO) and the head of the Office of Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) for identification and validation:

• Senior Citizen’s ID;

• Any Philippine government issued ID which shows the centenarian’s citizenship and date of birth;

• Death certificate of the deceased centenarian;

• Affidavit of Adjudication of the 08 - 14 July, 2017

35 35

National News estate or nearest surviving relative; and

• Any Philippine government issued ID of the estate or surviving relatives.

amount may be deposited to the account of the SWA or residential care facility if there is no nearest living relative or estate claimant.

Other alternative documents which can be presented are: marriage certificate; old school documents; baptismal or confirmation records; birth certificate of children; or an affidavit executed by at least two (2) disinterested persons at least 80 years old with personal knowledge of the centenarian’s actual age or date of birth.

Meanwhile, for those under the custody of a non-relative, the DSWD FO shall release the grant to the centenarian after the fulfilment of documentary requirements. The LGU shall closely monitor the management of the incentive.

For DSWD Secretary Judy M. Taguiwalo, the supplemental guidelines provides a better way of giving Abandoned, neglected or unattached assistance to elderly Filipinos, especially centenarians to those who were abandoned and neglected.

In addition, the supplemental guidelines also covers centenarians “There are unfortunate who were abandoned, neglected or circumstances which force Filipino unattached and are currently under families to abandon their elderly, and the care of a social welfare agency as much as it pains us to see them (SWA), a residential care facility run by away from their own relatives, we the DSWD or the local government unit can only provide and care for them (LGU), or a non-relative. through our residential care facilities,” she said.

Aside from the given documentary requirements, abandoned, neglected “Sadly, even the facilities that or unattached centenarians shall the DSWD runs and manages are in a undergo assessment using a General sad state of disrepair, and we really Intake Sheet (GIS) conducted by the need to focus on improving them so DSWD FO, in coordination with the that they can be better equipped to City/Municipal Social Welfare and address the needs of the residents. In Development Office (C/MSWDO) any case, we hope that through the before receiving the grant. cash incentive, we can help assist those who cared and are currently

For the incentive of deceased caring for our centenarians so that they centenarians under the care of SWAs can maintain their well-being,” the or residential care facilities, any excess Secretary concluded. (DSWD)

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08 - 14 July, 2017

National News

OFWs assured of assistance By: Abegail De Vega

MANILA - Labor Secretary Silvestre H. Bello III assured repatriated overseas Filipino workers from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia of continued assistance while awaiting final court action on their unpaid wages and other monetary claims.

Bello said the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is in constant monitoring and followup of their money claims from their financially-distressed companies in KSA.

OFWs will receive the authenticated court decision in August.

Dulay said they are accommodating the labor cases filed by around 100 OFW late-claimants

“Mahal na mahal kayo ng ating so they can also receive their unpaid Pangulo kaya siniseguro namin ang wages and benefits from their inyong kapakanan. Ang OWWA ay employers. palaging nakaantabay para tumulong sa inyo. Huwag kayong mag-alala Meanwhile, Bello encouraged the dahil hindi namin kayo pabayaan,” OFWs who seek micro-finance loans to Bello said in a meeting with a group of go to the OFW Bank which caters to the OFWs who were formerly employed at remittances and other banking needs Mohammad Al-Mojil Group (MMG) in of migrant workers.

Saudi.

“Sa October, nandyan na ‘yung

OWWA Deputy Administrator OFW Bank, so instead na uutang kayo Brigido Dulay and Atty. Ceasar Chavez sa Landbank or other banks, dito na of OWWA Repatriation Assistance lang sa OFW Bank dahil sa inyo talaga Division said that they are coordinating ito. Kapag na launch ang OFW Bank, with the Philippine Overseas Labor pwede kayong mangutang dyan sa Office (POLO) in Al Khobar to hasten pondo ninyo sa OWWA para pambili the processing of the OFWs’ monetary ng share of stocks para maging part claims before the Saudi court. owner kayo. Gusto ko na lahat ng OFW ay may share dyan,” Bello said.

“I’m part of the team na pinadala ni Secretary Bello to monitor and follow In addition, OWWA together with up your claims and we found out that the National Reintegration Center for the court decision is still under translation OFWs (NRCO), continues to extend pero mayroon nang partial decision assistance to the repatriated OFWs which our OFWs will receive in due through livelihood assistance and skills time,” Chavez said, assuring that the training. (DOLE) 08 - 14 July, 2017

37 37

Photo Gallery Department of Information and Communication Technology (DICT) Rural Impact Sourcing Hub Launching and Memorandum of Agreement Signing Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte 10 July 2017

For more info. contact: Tel. No.: (085) 225-9219 / 300-0722 Cell Nos. 0908-875-9185 / 0917-580-2609 / 0925-556-2417 Email: inkboxinnovation@gmail.com

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