Caraga InFocus - July 9 - 15, 2016

PIA Caraga personnel undergo surprise drug test COVER CONTENTS Volume 1, No. 15

7 8 10 11 12

9 - 15 July 2016

REGIONAL NEWS PIA Caraga promotes transparency, upcoming events now posted in FB page School children in Caraga receive school kits Caraga literacy awards committee screens entries for 2016 DOT awards achievers on tourism program implementation in Caraga DA Caraga strengthens cacao industry

7

PROVINCIAL NEWS 15 16 17 18 19 21 22 23 24 26 27 29

SurSur PNP officials undergo surprise drug test Oplan TokHang nets more than 3,000 drug personalities in SurSur Rebels seize 2 civilians in Tandag City Surigao Norte officials take oath of office Dinagat Islands SEAK association successful in weaving venture DAR honors outstanding Surigao Norte ARBOs

14 31

Agusan Sur solon recognizes ASELCO’s accomplishments TESDA-Agusan Sur exceeds 100% accomplishment in 2015 Lady rep optimistic for socio-economic development in Agusan Sur Guv bares educational programs to Agusanons AgNor farmer-groups honored during CARP anniversary Local nutrition, population officers in AgNor to receive monthly honorarium

MINDANAO NEWS

32

31 President-elect Rodrigo Duterte to keynote 25th MinBizCon in Surigao City 32 33

NATIONAL NEWS

BIR slashes tax clearance requirements, orders frontline offices to issue CAR within five days Voters’ registration for barangay, SK polls starts July 15

News Briefs The Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) polls registration is scheduled on July 15-30 including weekends & holidays nationwide. The registration is open to firsttime voters and those who have been deactivated for failing to participate in at least 2 consecutive elections.

Government agencies & partner stakeholders will once again celebrate this year’s World Day Against Trafficking on July 30, 2016 with the theme “Ituloy ang Laban Kontra Human Trafficking” (Continue the fight against Human Trafficking). The Regional Inter-Agency Council against Trafficking – Violence against Women and Children (RIACAT-VAWC), which is composed of government agencies and partner stakeholders from the different sectors have lined-up activities for the said celebration.

Agusan del Norte provl. gov. Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba handed-over the Rabies Management Information System (RabMIS) and equipment to the different LGUs of the province. RabMIS is a computerbased anti-rabies record keeping of the mandatory registration of dogs (3 months old and above) by their respective dog owners.

DTI Surigao Norte recently conducted an entrepreneurshipcum-customer relationship management seminar under its Small Medium Enterprises Roving Academy (SMERA) Program to 27 women participants in Surigao City. The 1-day activity aims to capacitate the participants with the basic knowledge in entrepreneurship as well as radically upgrade their current customer standards.

a g a r a C o g r A e I P rsonnel und aitano

er P. G y: Jennif

B

pe

A CARAGA INFOCUS

COVER STORY

ll personnel of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga were subjected to a surprise drug test on Tuesday during their Strategic Planning Session held at the regional office here.

4

PIA Caraga regional director Abner Caga ordered the drug test to all employees, including the information center managers and coordinators.

The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Caraga then responded to the request and administered the test.

“In

response

to

9 - 15 JULY 2016

Cover Story t s e t g u r ed

9 - 15 JULY 2016

CARAGA INFOCUS

the request of PIA Caraga regional director Abner Caga, we immediately responded and facilitated the conduct of the drug test to all the employees of said agency. It was a surprise drug-test and we were overwhelmed that all the employees have shown willingness and interest to Meanwhile, Dir. Caga underlined undergo the drug-test,” underscored that his order to let all PIA Caraga PDEA chemist Mark Roy Paguyod. employees undergo drug testing is in

Paguyod also explained that support to the call of President Rodrigo a drug test is a technical analysis of Duterte to cleanse all government a biological specimen, for example agencies and be free from drug users urine, hair, blood, breath, sweat, or and pushers. oral fluid/saliva—to determine the “This is also in response to the new presence or absence of specified parent drugs or their metabolites. administration’s call for a mandatory PIA Caraga employees were tested drug testing for government employees to regain trust of the public. This through urine analysis. agency recognizes that drug abuse

“The test yielded negative results is a significant health problem for for 12 urine samples. We hope that more employees, detrimentally affecting government employees from different overall health, behavior, working habit, agencies will also voluntarily undergo reflexes, and the total development of each individual,” stressed Caga. drug-testing,” Paguyod expressed.

COVER STORY

s i r p sur

5

Photo Gallery

CERTIFIED DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE

CARAGA INFOCUS

All PIA Caraga personnel were subjected to a surprise drug testing on Tuesday during our Strategic Planning Session held at the regional office in Butuan City.

PIA Caraga regional director Abner Caga ordered the drug test to all employees including the information center managers and coordinators. PDEA Caraga administered the test.

12 July 2016

6

9 - 15 JULY 2016

REGIONAL NEWS PIA Caraga promotes transparency, upcoming events now posted in FB page By: Jennifer P. Gaitano

According to PIA Caraga regional director Abner Caga, it is but proper to also update the public on the invitations received

by PIA on the upcoming events of the different partner agencies and 9 - 15 JULY 2016

other stakeholders that have national interest and are open to public.

Dir. Caga emphasized that people should also know that the government agencies are conducting activities from time to time where they can witness, participate and get involve in such activity.

“Posting of upcoming activities as per invitation from other agencies should also be timely so people can mark their calendars ahead of time and be able to participate and contribute

CARAGA INFOCUS

The PIA Caraga Updates, which is the official regional Facebook (FB) page of the agency has recently been verified by Facebook as a legitimate account. The said FB page has been established/registered sometime in April 2011 and has already 8,156 page likes and counting as of reporting time.

REGIONAL NEWS

BUTUAN CITY – As the information arm of the government, the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga continuously innovates and updates the public on relevant information, issues and concerns, as well as upcoming events.

7

significant ideas,” said Caga.

Caga further highlighted that PIA Caraga provides communication support to government agencies’ endeavors and will continue to explore, innovate and initiate significant platforms that will enhance communication processes and working relationship between the public and the government.

our posts in Facebook, they may just send us a personal message and we will respond as soon as possible. We can also refer them to the concerned agency for more information about such activity,” Caga added.

Other provincial Facebook pages of PIA Caraga include the following: PIA Agusan del Norte; PIA Agusan del Sur, PIA Surigao del Norte, PIA Dinagat “If they have inquiries regarding Islands and PIA Surigao del Sur.

School children in Caraga receive school kits

CARAGA INFOCUS

REGIONAL NEWS

By: Venus L. Garcia

8

BUTUAN CITY – Some 20,670 school kits were distributed by the 4th Infantry Division (4ID), Philippine Army to the pupil recipients from Kindergarten to Grade Six who are enrolled at the different public schools throughout Caraga region.

9 - 15 JULY 2016

Meanwhile, Brgy.

Councilor Regalado Gerzon, chairman of the Committee on Education, Brgy. Bancasi in Butuan City and a retired Phil. Army officer said during his welcome address that they are glad that the services of the government especially of the Phil.

Army has extensively reached among civilian populace, the pupils who need much support for their education.

9 - 15 JULY 2016

In a deeper meaning of gaining momentum and success of the Project Shoebox, Phil. Information Agency Caraga regional director Abner Caga stressed that it is through the benevolent heart of the uniformed men of AFP and other sponsors that ensures continuity of the advocacy. “Hence, it is just appropriate to acknowledge their efforts in helping address the hindrances

CARAGA INFOCUS

In expressing his amazement and support to the Project Shoebox, DILG Caraga assistant regional director Donald Serona recalled how the underprivileged children strive hard just to acquire education, and so he addressed the pupil recipients to give value to what they have received - the school kits as it will somehow aid them in uplifting the difficulties of getting proper education from school. He added that it is an important component in the social services of an institution, and that he greatly appreciates the noble

“Now is the reaping time of the endeavor of AFP and its partners. then conceptualized effort to collect several school supplies to be given Also, speaking in behalf of to the underprivileged children- a indigenous peoples (IPs), National synergy to help address the problem Commission on Indigenous Peoples on education specifically the materials (NCIP) Caraga regional director Atty. needed for pupil’s learning,” expressed Pinky Grace Pabelic recognized the BGen Atal. significant endeavor of the Phil. Army and other stakeholders in giving priority

He thanked all their partners to educational assistance through who supported in the realization of ‘aral kits.’ “Keep holding onto your the project and advocacy for peace dreams because the future belongs and development. Atal also said the to those who believe in their dreams, project shoebox is their way of sharing and achieve those dreams with all your their blessings to the underprivileged might amidst obstacles and struggles children especially in the far-flung in going to school,” addressed Atty. areas.

Pabelic.

REGIONAL NEWS

As disclosed by 4ID assistant division commander BGen. Paul Atal during the Project Shoebox Distribution Ceremony held recently here, the ‘aral kits’ containing notebooks, pencils, crayons, and other school supplies intended to be distributed among indigenous and deprived pupils in conflict affected areas, was initiated by a generosity-driven soldier in the person of Col. Thomas Sedano, battalion commander of 4th Light Battalion Armor.

9

of getting the right education among Every child gladly received each less fortunate children,” said Caga. share of shoebox. It is hoped that the advocacy will strengthen as more

Meanwhile, Dr. Ramil Uytico, public and private institutions are assistant regional director of expected to take sponsorship of the Department of Education (DepEd) said project.

Caraga enunciated that said project will not just address the problem of It was learned that Regions 10 poverty but it will surely go a long way and 13 pupil recipients received a total including the decrease of drop-outs. of 32,739 school kits from the Project He added that it is a message of more Shoebox of the 4ID, Philippine Army. than the contents of the shoebox, such that it takes a village to educate and The Project Shoebox is an initiative and escalate the level of education, and in partnership of the Armed Forces not a responsibility of the DepEd alone. of the Philippines, Department of “This is a celebration of hope and Education (DepEd), National Bookstore generosity,” underscored Uytico.

Foundation and 2GO Express.

Caraga literacy awards committee screens entries for 2016

CARAGA INFOCUS

REGIONAL NEWS

By: Nora C. Lanuza Molde

10

BUTUAN CITY – The Department of Education (DepEd) Caraga region through its Literacy Coordinating Council has conducted the screening of entries for this year’s National Literacy Awards (NLA).

Entries have been conducted municipalities and outstanding literacy by the members of the 2016 Regional program.

Literacy Awards Steering Committee (RLASC) recently.

The NLA aims to recognize best practices in literacy, which help

The entries screened include alleviate poverty, provide livelihood, outstanding local government address welfare needs, promote units (LGUs) highly urbanized city, freedom and make education facilities component city, class A and B accessible.

9 - 15 JULY 2016

According to DepEd regional director May B. Eclar, the NLA has two categories: the Outstanding Literacy Program and the Outstanding Local Government Unit (LGU).

Also, the LGU category is divided into highly urbanized city, component/ component independent city, class A municipality (first to third), and class B municipality (fourth to sixth class).

The Outstanding Literacy Program is an award given to civil society organization, national government organization, private organization or educational/academic institution, that has developed and implemented a literacy program which has had a positive impact on the learners and their respective communities.

The RLASC is chaired by director Eclar of DepEd, co-chaired by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Caraga regional director Lilibeth A. Famacion with Philippine Information Agency Caraga regional director Abner M. Caga, regional director Mylah Faye Aurora B. Carino of the National Economic and Development Authority Caraga,

The Outstanding LGU will also and Dr. Adelyne M. Abrea, executive given to an LGU that has developed director and provost of Philippine and implemented literacy policies, Normal University as members. programs and projects that have impacted positively on the quality of This award is given every other life of their constituents. year.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – The Department of Tourism (DOT) in Caraga honored on Monday the individuals and institutions who have exemplified excellence in implementing the region’s tourism projects and programs held in time with the opening of the 3rd Caraga Regional Tourism Stakeholders Summit here.

9 - 15 JULY 2016

CARAGA INFOCUS

By: Nida Grace P. Barcena

REGIONAL NEWS

DOT awards achievers on tourism program implementation in Caraga

11

CARAGA INFOCUS

REGIONAL NEWS

The awarding ceremony was led by Department of Tourism (DOT) Caraga regional director Letecia Tan and Surigao del Sur Governor Vicente Pimentel Jr.

12

Johann Jake Miranda of the Tavern Hotel in Surigao City, an advocator of Green Tourism and Halal certified, was awarded as the Most Outstanding Private Sector, while Hotel

The Most Outstanding Tourism Tavern Surigao was awarded as the Officer was given to Roselyn Armida Most Outstanding Hotel in the region.

Merlin of Surigao City. She was also an awardee of Caraga Region as the Rosario’s Seafood Restaurant and Most Outstanding Officer in 2008 and Grill House in Butuan City was awarded 2013 and was also elected as National as the Most Outstanding Restaurant, President for the Association of Tourism while the Most Outstanding Resort was Officers of the Philippines last 2008. given to Almont Hotel and Inland Resort

Tandag City Tourism Officer in Butuan City.

Florence Abis was awarded with Most Promising Tourism Officer.

The Most Outstanding Cultural Artistic Group was awarded to Father

The Most Outstanding Local Saturnino Urios University (FSUU) Dance Government Unit was received by the Company of Butuan City. municipality of Mainit, Surigao del Norte with its known tourist destinations such For the Most Outstanding Travel as the Kasili Resort, Mapaso Wellness Agency, the award was given to One Resort and Togonan Falls.

Corporate Grand Tours Incorporated, while the Most Outstanding Tour

Meanwhile, the Surigao City Operator was awarded to Surigao Tourism Council bagged the Most Travel Activity Recreation Shop. The Outstanding Tourism Council award Most Outstanding Tour Guide was for being the most active council in awarded to Leah Modalo, a known the whole region in terms of tourism designer and creator of souvenir items. programs and projects.

(PIA-Surigao del Sur)

DA Caraga strengthens cacao industry BUTUAN CITY - There are three things to improve productivity in cacao - knowledge, hardwork, and attitude.

Photo from: PAMANA

9 - 15 JULY 2016

According to the Philippine Statistics Authority data in 2014, Caraga has only 701 hectares planted to cacao. With a ready market for its products, Turtur has assured the farmers a lucrative income if they engage in Cacao production. “For the last five years, the price of cacao has been stable at P100-125 per kilo for dried beans and P28-32 per kilo for wet beans,”

The forum which was conducted Turtur added. by the Department of Agriculture (DA)-Caraga together with Mindanao Another cacao stakeholder, Development Authority and the Zenon Rachiel Alenton of Kennemer Department of Trade and Industry Food, Inc. (KFI) said that Caraga can was aimed at strengthening the contribute much for the targeted cacao Industry by encouraging increase in cacao production more investments and expansion of considering its large available lands production areas. It was attended by potential for growing cacao as well as 100 farmers, LGU representatives and potential lands for intercropping cacao other cacao industry stakeholders from with coconut. In addition, Caraga has all over the region. also good soils and suitable climatic condition. Furthermore, Asia’s biggest

DA Caraga regional director cacao nursery operated by KFI, is Edna M. Mabeza said that with the located in the region, particularly in support of both the national and local San Francisco, Agusan del Sur. It lies on governments as well as the private a six-hectare land and has a capacity sectors, Caraga can has a viable and of 2.4M seedlings. sustainable cacao industry.

The Department of Agriculture

“In time that there will already be has also identified cacao as one of its enough production areas, processing priority High Value Crop commodity facilities can then be set up so that there where support interventions can be will be an added value to the products accessed by interested farmer groups. and command better prices,” Mabeza (DA-Caraga) 9 - 15 JULY 2016

REGIONAL NEWS

Cacao is now a trending crop, being talked about everywhere in the world because of the declining production and its increasing demand in the global market. According to recent studies, demand of the said commodity increased because of its known health benefits and the high global demand for chocolate.

said.

During the forum, Turtur presented the National Cacao Industry Roadmap that target to develop at least 100,000 hectares with 50 million trees by 2022.

Caraga’s challenge would be to plant 3,000 hectares by that year.

CARAGA INFOCUS

This is according to Valentine D. Turtur, Executive Director of Cacao Industry Development Association of Mindanao, Inc. (CIDSAMI) as said during the Regional Cacao Industry Promotion and Investment Forum cum Planning workshop held recently here.

13

Photo Gallery

Enfants Du Mekong Lecture 9 July 2016

Launch of the 2015 Listahanan Database of Poor Families in Caraga

CARAGA INFOCUS

REGIONAL NEWS

11 July 2016

14

9 - 15 JULY 2016

PROVINCIAL NEWS SurSur PNP officials undergo surprise drug test

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – Fifty senior officials of the Surigao del Sur Police Provincial Office (PPO) underwent a surprise drug test right after the command conference conducted Tuesday afternoon.

9 - 15 JULY 2016

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

By: Nida Grace P. Barcena

15

According to Assistant Police Community Relation (PCR) officer Arlyn Tanzo, it was a surprise activity for the chiefs of police and senior police officers who came just to attend the regular command conference.

test.

“As a procedure, if the initial screen turns-out to be positive, a second confirmatory test should be done,” Bayting said.

In the event that the initial screen and confirmation test are both positive,

While the senior officials were a corresponding administrative case inside the conference room, the crime will be filed against him or her, Bayting laboratory personnel set-up a drug explained. testing equipment at the entrance of the Police Provincial Office with The surprise drug testing was the presence of some local media conducted to 17 chiefs of police personalities.

(COP), Cantilan and Carmen MPS representatives, 19 Police Non PPO Surigao del Sur chief PSSupt. Commissioned Officers from different Romaldo Bayting, who ordered the city/municipal police stations, and 12 implemention of a mandatory drug PPO police officers. (NGBT/PIA-Surigao test, also underwent a urine sample del Sur)

Oplan TokHang nets more than 3,000 drug personalities in SurSur

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

By: Nida Grace P. Barcena

16

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, – Through the intensified implementation of “Oplan Tokhang,” a total of 3,042 drug users and pushers voluntarily surrendered to the different municipalities and cities in the entire province.

9 - 15 JULY 2016

In a press statement from the Police Provincial Office, a total of 2,909 drug users and 133 drug pushers surrendered as of July 8, 2016 coming from the different barangays of this province.

The said surrenderees also signed the affidavit of undertaking that they will stop their involvement in illegal drugs.

It can be recalled that the “Oplan TokHang” was simultaneously launched on Monday, July 4 provincewide that convinced a total of 2,480 surrenderees during day one of implementation.

The Oplan TokHang, accordingly, is the first approach of the PNP on Anti-

Illegal Drugs Campaign Plan also known as “Project Double Barrel,” which is done through constant coordination with the municipal and barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Council (M/BADAC) thru the conduct of a house to house visitation to the suspected drug users/ pushers pleading them to stop their illegal activities.

Meanwhile, the Surigao del Sur Police Provincial Office headed by provincial director PSSupt. Romaldo Bayting thru the City/Municipal Police Stations provincewide is urging the public to cooperate and participate to sustain these significant achievements against illegal drugs. (NGBT/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Rebels seize 2 civilians in Tandag City By: Nida Grace P. Barcena

9 - 15 JULY 2016

CARAGA INFOCUS

PPO PCR officer PCInsp. Noel Juagpao.” Said victims were then Naranjo identified the victims as Ramil brought towards the remote portion of Aguirre, 35 years old and Jesus Matin- the area. ao, 50 years old.

After few hours, the captors

Initial investigation conducted reportedly released Jesus Matin-ao, but by the authorities revealed that the Ramil Aguirre is still in the hands of the victims were heading towards the coco abductors for the reason that he was an lands when they were approached by alleged informant of the government 60 fully armed men and women with troops.

AK-47 and M16 firearms dressed in full combat “army” uniform and wearing Pursuit operations are still boots led by alias “Nicko” of Guerilla underway to rescue the victim, as of Front 30 under the command of “Ka posting. (NGBT/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

PROVINCIAL NEWS

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, – Some 60 fully armed New People’s Army (NPA) rebels abducted two members of Bantay Banwa (Bantay Kalikasan) group on Friday in Barangay Pangi, this city, approximately six kilometers from the Police Provincial Office (PPO).

17

Surigao Norte officials take oath of office

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, - Governor Sol F. Matugas took her oath of office on Monday at the Provincial Convention Center together with the newly-elected and re-elected members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of the first and second legislative districts.

18

Vice governor Arturo Carlos Egay, Jr., and first district representative Jose Francisco “Bingo” Matugas were joined by board members Mamerto Galanida, Leonila Gorgolon, Edgar Andanar, Constantino Navarro IV and Nathaniel Plaza, with their respective spouses, loving children and relatives.

his accomplishments and projects like the Siargao circumferential road, construction of school buildings, library hubs, and other establishments.

He said that the overwhelming victory and success of the Matugas administration are sincerely dedicated to the love of his life, Governor Sol.

For the second district, those who were sworn in were Board Members Melva Garcia, Fernando Larong and Eddie “Geed” Gokiangkee, Jr.

“I don’t want to bid farewell, but there is always a time for everything under the sun. All the good works that I started will be continued and completed by Cong. Bingo,” he said.

During the inaugural and oathtaking ceremony, three-termer Municipal and barangay officials Francisco Matugas also presented as well as representatives from national

9 - 15 JULY 2016

line agencies and the private sector also her hands-on and fast-moving leadership attended the inauguration ceremony. moved the government nearer to the people in line with her flagship program

In her message, Gov. Matugas known as HEALS PLUS, centering on said that in her first two terms, the the areas of Health, Education and province of Surigao del Norte became Environment, Agriculture and Aquathe fastest growing economy in the culture, Livelihood and Tourism, and region. The province also gains 100 Social Services and Security. On top percent compliance to transparency of the centerpiece advocacies are and full disclosure policy. This is the Infrastructure Development, Good reason why according to Gov. Matugas Financial Management, Economic the province is a consistent recipient of Literacy and Good Governance. (John the Seal of Good Local Governance.

Glenn A. Platil, PGO-SDN)

Gov. Matugas also explained how

It all started on March 31, 2013 when the 25 members of JEDAPA SEA-K Association of Brgy. Justiniana, Dinagat, this province received P10,000 each from the Sustainable Livelihood Program’s (SLP’s) SEA-K of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

the association merge their grants for a capital, thus, collaboration with Justiniana Edera Agra Producers Cooperative (JEDAPCO) happened.

“SLP’s coming to our lives has given us hope to be free from poverty,” says Moises C. Laborte, president of their association.

To ensure economic sustainability,

9 - 15 JULY 2016

The two parties became partners

CARAGA INFOCUS

DINAGAT, Dinagat Islands – The Justiniana Edera Agra Producer’s Association (JEDAPA) has been successful on its weaving venture and their story proves that action is the key to all success, a sure product of people’s initiative and empowerment.

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Dinagat Islands SEAK association successful in weaving venture

19

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

in managing the handicrafts production and the officers are given Php100 per and less-interest rates micro lending month for allowance. projects.

Further, the production has

The group partnered with the generated income not to handicraft Municipal Agricultural Office (MAO) of makers but to bamboo growers as Justiniana, Department of Science and well. As the project grows, demand on Technology (DOST) and Department of bamboo production has increased.

Trade and Industry (DTI) which improved the quality of their handicrafts, hence, The business growth has led off market value or price has increased. to putting up a general merchandise It has also upgraded the operation’s last May 28, 2015. Today, members and efficiency. non-members have access to their daily basic needs and other wide array

“We are very grateful to the of goods. partners who have helped us because Last year, Their Statement of without them, our business operations Financial Condition shows the groups would not get better,” Laborte explains. assets has increased from P480,943.89 in 2013 to P761,001.76.

MAO conducted skills training on hat and mat weaving. En route to To promote active involvement in a more efficient business operations, decision-making, the group conducts DTI provided Solar Dryer and Dye Pan. a monthly meeting where policies and Skills training on bleaching, dyeing guidelines implemented are discussed and recycling of waste materials was to avoid misunderstanding among the conducted by DOST. members.

20

With an improved quality of At present, JEDAPA is striving products, more farmers and tourists more to continually improve the sociohave been patronizing the product. economic well-being of its members.

Moreover, the group has been providing bulk orders to schools that join in street dancing contest. A local buyer also purchases their products which are distributed to places like Cebu, Leyte and Manila. The products are also displayed in Dinagat’s DTI: One Town, One Product (OTOP).

“We will continue our efforts for the betterment of our projects,” Laborte concluded.

The group’s success implies that hard work pays off and all toils are never in vain. JEDAPA is indeed an effectual livelihood not only to its members but to the community of Justiniana as well.

Eventually, the group’s profit (Mary Carmelle C. Jumawan/SLP/ increased. With this, the craftsmen’s Social Marketing Unit/DSWD Field Office honorarium has increased to P2,000 Caraga/PIA-Dinagat Islands) 9 - 15 JULY 2016

DAR honors outstanding Surigao Norte ARBOs By: Daryll Tumbaga

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, - Nine agrarian reform beneficiary organizations (ARBOs) in Surigao del Norte were honored recently for their outstanding performance in the implementation of the Agrarian Production Credit Program (APCP) of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR).

9 - 15 JULY 2016

The ARBO borrowers were recognized for their performance based on the criteria of approved loan and accumulated loan availment since the ARBOs were granted of the APCP loans with the Landbank of the Philippines. These APCP loans were granted to ARBOs starting in 2014.

Moreover, the San Pedro Rural Workers Association of Brgy. San Pedro in Alegria was also hailed as the Best ARBO in Surigao del Norte for their highest performance compared to other ARBOs in Surigao del Norte per set criteria and standard of the Landbank of the Philippines. (DAR-Surigao del Norte)

PROVINCIAL NEWS

The outstanding ARBOs were San Pedro Rural Workers Association of Brgy.

San Pedro, Alegria; Esperanza Farmers Credit Cooperative of Brgy. Esperanza, Del Carmen; Trinidad Farmers Credit Cooperative of Brgy. Trinidad, Surigao City; Cantapoy Farmers and Fisherman Credit Cooperative of Brgy. Cantapoy, Malimono; Honrado Farmers Credit Cooperative of Brgy. Honrado, San Francisco; Himamaug Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Cooperative of Brgy.

Himamaug, Taganaan; Ima WomenInitiated Community Association of Brgy. Ima, Sison; Union Agro-Agri Credit Organization of Brgy. Union,

Dapa; and Mabini Farmers Agra Credit Cooperative of Brgy. Mabini, Surigao City.

CARAGA INFOCUS

The recognition was part of the kick-off celebration of the 28 years of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) on June 14, 2016 held at Robinsons Place, Butuan City.

21

Agusan Sur solon recognizes ASELCO’s accomplishments By: Venus L. Garcia

PROVINCIAL NEWS

“ASELCO deserves a meaningful celebration. It plays an important role in addressing energy crisis and ensuring least cost and stable supply of electricity to all Agusanons,” said Cong. Plaza.

CARAGA INFOCUS

BUTUAN CITY - In celebration of the 34th Annual General Assembly of Agusan del Sur Electric Cooperative (ASELCO), Inc. held recently and simultaneously in different municipalities and city within the province of Agusan del Sur, 1st district representative of Agusan del Sur Ma. Valentina Plaza extended her gesture of appreciation for the organization’s another milestone in the attainment of continued success in the field of electrification system.

Anchored on this year’s theme, “ASELCO: Transforming Lives, Pushing Progress,” Cong. Plaza bared that it imposes a great challenge to all as the growth of the economy drives the demand for electricity, “thus, “Electricity improves children’s a government that successfully study condition during the evening,

22

implements a program to spur economic program will drive up the demand for electricity,” she said.

Cong. Plaza added that the electricity demand is projected to grow more and more to cater the basic needs like education, health, entertainment and communication, comfort and protection, convenience and productivity.

9 - 15 JULY 2016

enhances the flow of information the cooperative during the conduct to rural households, and improve of medical and dental missions. the productivity of small and big businesses,” emphasized Plaza.

It concluded with the usual conduct of business meeting among the Among the activities during the attendees which include the following event were the awarding of plaques agenda: presentation of the multiof recognition and giving of cash year capital expenditure projects of incentives to the best performing the cooperative for calendar year barangay power associations; 2017-2019 and discussion of the group awarding to local government units insurance for member-consumer(LGUs) who promptly pay its power bills; owners (MCOs), followed by an open awarding for the support extended to forum and a raffle draw activity.

TESDA-Agusan Sur exceeds 100% accomplishment in 2015

BUTUAN CITY – The provincial office of Agusan del Sur of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) has exceeded its accomplishment in 2015.

According to TESDA-Agusan del Sur provincial director Braulio P. Dela Peña, Jr., the office has showed remarkable results exceeding their

9 - 15 JULY 2016

initial target in all the Major Final Outputs (MFOs). “The accomplished target was based on the output set by the Central Office in terms of Profilling,

CARAGA INFOCUS

Photo from: www.tesda1.net

PROVINCIAL NEWS

By: Jemuel Bryan G. Libarios

23

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Enrollment, Graduates Assessment and Certification,” dela Peña said.

For year 2015, the YP4SC or Youth Profiling for Starring Career had an initial target of 2,200 youths and had accomplished 2,804 youths resulting to a 127 percent rate of accomplishments. Most of the output came from the Agusan del Sur School of Arts and Trades (ASSSAT).

24

Under the Enrollment output, data showed that their target was 12,346 and had accomplished 12,811 enrollees “giving us an impression that there are more interested to undergo certified or 4,239 actual accomplished trainings,” dela Peña said. from the initial target of 4,134.

The official added that a TESDA – Agusan Del Sur had total of 11, 746 graduated from the training surpassing the initial target of a great year of 2015 with its new 11,111 which showed a 106 percent leadership and efforts of their office personnel. Dela Peňa said the accomplishment rate for year 2015.

For Assessment, a 100.12 percent exceeded target output means that accomplishment rate was achieved their management has done well in from initial targets of 4,921 to 4,927 making the office more develop and (TESDA-Caraga/PIAactual accomplishments. Lastly, a 103 competent. percent accomplishment rate were Caraga)

Lady rep optimistic for socio-economic development in Agusan Sur

By: Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY – “Because of my long standing belief with Agusan del Sur Electric Cooperative’s (ASELCO) principles and ideas, I declare my strong support to your mission of providing effective and efficient power generation services for the socioeconomic growth for all Agusanons,” undercored Agusan del Sur 1st district representative Ma. Valentina Plaza.

9 - 15 JULY 2016

According to Cong. Plaza, despite the power crisis which the Mindanao region has experienced before, she is with full confidence that the cooperative’s board of directors, management and staff of ASELCO are all working together to achieve a common goal to benefit the memberconsumers and the entire province in general. “Your effort to deliver service through excellent customer service and the improvement of the distribution lines are highly commendable,” she said.

9 - 15 JULY 2016

Cong. Plaza also cited that since electrification system has become a part of modern life and has many uses in the day-to-day life, it has a significant role in pursuing progress of her province and country. “Think of a world without electricity, all the inventions that uses it such as computers, machines in factories, appliances, modern medicines and surgery, modern transportation and communication, and other electricity dependent operations and systems will be compromised without a stable supply of energy,” said Cong. Plaza.

The lady representative is confident that socio-economic boost of the province is feasible as the stakeholders continue to revolutionize the method of providing reliable power source.

CARAGA INFOCUS

This was her positive inspiring remark as she addressed the officers, members, consumers, owners and employees of ASELCO during its 34th Annual General Assembly held recently in Agusan del Sur.

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Photo from: Levy Cabatic

25

Guv bares educational programs to Agusanons

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

By: Nora C. Lanuza Molde

26

BUTUAN CITY – Agusan del Norte Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba said that she does not only prioritizes ‘education for all’ but she also prepares the graduates to actual work.

In her recent State of the Province Address (SOPA) here, Matba said that in order to institutionalize the strategy of ‘from school to work’ program, the province granted Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES) to 589 students and provincial scholarship trainings to over 170 beneficiaries for the year 2015.

Matba said that a total of 105 students were likewise granted Educational Assistance with a budget of P2.9 million.

Also, during the year-end review, a total of 1,038 qualified and deserving scholars were assessed while 2,150 were trained, said governor Matba. “That year, 1,361 scholars also graduated and 9 - 15 JULY 2016

By: Gil E. Miranda

BUTUAN CITY - Three Agrarian Reform Beneficiary Organizations (ARBOs) in the province of Agusan del Norte were honored for their outstanding performance in the implementation of the Agrarian Production Credit Program (APCP) as Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) celebrates its 28th anniversary of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) held recently at Robinsons Place, this city.

9 - 15 JULY 2016

CARAGA INFOCUS

AgNor farmer-groups honored during CARP anniversary

PROVINCIAL NEWS

the cost of the provincial government Cum Laude,” governor Matba proudly in implementing these interventions announced. was over P20.4 million,” she added.

The three IPs have already passed

“The effort of the provincial the Licensure Examination for Teachers government in education placed (LET), it was learned. minimum attention for our Indigenous Peoples (IP), and with much pride, I Governor Matba said that the am glad to announce the success achievements were attained because gained by three of our IP scholars who of the clear direction to provide quality did not only complete their respective education with the aim to attain full course in teaching, but also finished literacy by 2030.

27

PROVINCIAL NEWS CARAGA INFOCUS

28

The conferment of the award was led by DAR Caraga regional director Julita A. Ragandang with DAR Agusan del Norte Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer Andre B. Atega to the ARBOs that include Baleguian Organic Farmers’ Irrigators Association (BOFIA), Maong Agrarian Reform Farmers’ Cooperative, (MAFCO) and Taguibo Integrated Pest Management Irrigators’ Association (TIPMA).

congratulates the ARBOs for this year’s excellent performance in the implementation of the APCP.

APCP is a financing program being implemented by the DAR, Department of Agriculture and Land Bank of the Philippines to provide credit including development assistance and marketing support to improve the farmers in developing the CARP awarded farmlands. (DAR-Agusan del

Provincial Agrarian Reform Norte) Program Officer Andre B. Atega 9 - 15 JULY 2016

Local nutrition, population officers in AgNor to receive monthly honorarium

This was sealed under Provincial Ordinance No. 414-2016, entitled: “An Ordinance Providing Honorarium to the the Municipal Nutrition Action Officers (MNAOs) and Municipal Population Officers (MPOs) in the province of Agusan del Norte, and Appropriating Funds Thereof,� authored by Provincial Board Member Elizabeth Marie R. Calo.

The said ordinance covers 9 - 15 JULY 2016

all MNAOs and MPOs in the ten municipalities of the province.

The provincial government will appropriate P132,000.00 under the Nutrition and Population Program of the Provincial Social Welfare, Population and Nutrition Services Office (PSWPNSO) starting calendar year 2017 and every year thereafter. (LGU-Agusan del Norte)

CARAGA INFOCUS

BUTUAN CITY - The provincial government of Agusan del Norte is set to give monthly honorarium to the Municipal Nutrition Action Officers (MNAOs) and Municipal Population Officers (MPOs) in the province starting January of next year.

PROVINCIAL NEWS

By: Aimee B. Sienes

29

Photo Gallery KBP Meeting & Broadcastreeing Ocular Inspection

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Bancasi, Butuan City 15 July 2016

30

9 - 15 JULY 2016

MINDANAO NEWS President-elect Rodrigo Duterte to keynote 25th MinBizCon in Surigao City

By: Jennifer P. Gaitano

“At the end of his talk, we will endorse to Pres. Duterte the Mindanao Business Policy and Program Agenda containing the urgently needed business policies and actions targeted to spur inclusive socio-economic development in Mindanao,” Paqueo added.

9 - 15 JULY 2016

She further revealed that this blueprint, which was drafted through a series of consultation with the stakeholders around Mindanao will serve as the private sector’s input to the government’s six-year Mindanao Development Plan.

“Expected to share this momentous event are some 800 - 1,000 business executives, investors, industry players, policy-makers, Macro-Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and youth leaders not only from Mindanao but also from the Brunei-IndonesiaMalaysia-Philippines East Asian Growth Area. As such, our concerted effort is needed in making the 25th MinBizCon successful,” Paqueo stressed. (PIACaraga)

CARAGA INFOCUS

Surigao Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) president and conference director Concepcion Paqueo bared that this year’s MinBizCon will be even more significant as it marked the 25 years of incessantly pushing forward the development of Mindanao “and we welcome the first Mindanaoan President, Rodrigo Roa Duterte, who will grace the event as our keynote speaker.”

MINDANAO NEWS

BUTUAN CITY – President-elect Rodrigo Duterte will deliver the keynote speech at the 25th Mindanao Business Conference (MinBizCon) on August 24-26, 2016 at the Philippine Gateway Hotel in Surigao City.

31

NATIONAL NEWS

CARAGA INFOCUS

NATIONAL NEWS

BIR slashes tax clearance requirements, orders frontline offices to issue CAR within five days

32

QUEZON CITY Heeding the call of the President of the Republic, the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) begun its journey towards change through two (2) revenue issuances which effectively cuts down on red tape in the processing of Tax Clearance Certificates (TCC) and the issuance of Certificates Authorizing Registration (CAR).

Revenue Memorandum Circular (RMC) No. 74-2016 streamlines the requirements and the process in the issuance of TCCs required under Executive Order No. 398. The said issuance mandates that all TCCs shall be processed and released within two (2) working days from the submission of the complete documents. The number

of documentary requirements was also reduced from nine (9) to three (3).

Applicants now need only to submit a notarized application form with two (2) pieces of loose Documentary Stamp Tax (DST), Print-out of Certification Fee paid thru the BIR’s Electronic Filing and Payment System

9 - 15 JULY 2016

(eFPS) with payment confirmation, and Delinquency Verification issued by the concerned BIR office.

The issuance further requires the issuance of the Delinquency Verification within twenty four (24) hours from the filing of the application by the taxpayer and shall have a validity period of one (1) month from the date of issue.

(ARTA), in the processing and issuance of CARs.

MANILA – Voters registration for the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections will start today, July 15 up to July 31, 2016.

Comelec said youth voters in the October 31 polls are those that are 15 to 30 years old. Comelec Resolution No. 10148 provides, those who are qualified

9 - 15 JULY 2016

to register as voters for the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) polls are Filipino citizens; at least 15 but not more than 30 years old on the day of elections; residing in

CARAGA INFOCUS

Voters’ registration for barangay, SK polls starts July 15

NATIONAL NEWS

The said RMO reiterates the documentary requirements relative to applications for the issuance of CARs covering sale of real property, transfer or assignment of stocks not traded in the stock exchange, transfer subject top donor’s tax, estate tax, and other taxes including DST related to the sale/

The criteria for approving transfer of properties. applications for TCC shall be governed by existing issuances which includes It also pegs at five (5) days no unpaid Annual Registration Fee, no from the submission of the complete open valid “stop-filer” case, user of the documentary requirements the number eFPS for at least two (2) consecutive of days within which the CAR shall be months prior to the application for TCC, issued in contrast to the previous time not tagged as “Cannot Be Located” frame of five (5) to ten (10) days. Officials taxpayer, and no delinquent account. and employees found to have violated this directive shall be subject to the

Revenue Memorandum Order criminal and administrative penalties (RMO) No. 41-2016 on the other hand provided under the ARTA. mandates strict adherence to the BIR’s Citizen Charter and the provisions of The RMO responds to complaints Republic Act (RA) No. 9485, otherwise raised by taxpayers of CARs issued well known as the Anti-Red Tape Act of 2007 beyond the prescribed period. (BIR)

33

CARAGA INFOCUS

NATIONAL NEWS

the barangay for at least six months on Elections, who are 18 but not more than Election Day; and not disqualified by 30 years old on or before October 31, law. shall be included in the list of voters for the SK,” the poll body said.

Prior to the passage of the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Reform To be able to do this, they will Act of 2015, those who are qualified extract the records of voters that are to apply for the youth elections are at aged 18 to 30 years old immediately least 15 years old but less than 18 years after the registration period. old on Election Day.

“The Information Technology Department shall provide the technical

On the other hand, Comelec procedures in the extraction of said those qualified to register for the registration records of members of SK in Barangay polls are Filipino citizens; at the VRS,” the Resolution said. least 18 years old on or before Election Day; a resident of the Philippines for Registration period for the at least one year; a resident in the barangay and youth polls will be from barangay he/she proposes to vote for July 15 to 30, including weekends and at least six months before the day of holidays, in all Offices of the Election elections; and is not disqualified by law. Officers (OEOs) in every city/municipality from 8:00 o’clock in the morning to 5:00

“Registered voters in the May o’clock in the afternoon.

9 national and local elections, and those who will register for the Barangay The public may download application forms from the Comelec website.

34

Applicants are asked to print the form, fill out three copies, and personally file at the Office of Election Officers.

Meanwhile, Comelec explained that the registration for the Barangay and SK polls shall not include those intending to transfer their registration records both within the same city/ municipality and to other city/ municipality.

Correction of data entries as well as reactivation of voter registration will be accepted.

9 - 15 JULY 2016

Photo Gallery Information and Communication Technology (ICT) BAYANIHAN Caraga Emergency Telecommunications Summit Operationalization of the Rapid Emergency Telecommunications Team Samping Avenue, J. C. Aquino Avenue, Butuan City July 14, 2016

ONE MINDANAO MOBILE APP

EDITORIAL BOARD Executive Editor

ABNER M. CAGA Associate Editor

FRYAN E. ABKILAN Managing Editor

NORA C. LANUZA MOLDE Copy Editor

VENUS LIM GARCIA Layout Artists

GERIE MAE G. COCO RONNIE E. MADANGUIT Contributors

JENNIFER P. GAITANO Agusan del Sur

NIDA GRACE B. TRANQUILAN Surigao del Sur

SUSIL D. RAGAS

Surigao del Norte/Dinagat Islands

JOHN GLENN A. PLATIL GIL E. MIRANDA AIMEE B. SIENES DARYLL TUMBAGA MARY CARMELLE C. JUMAWAN PIA-DINAGAT ISLANDS DAR-AGUSAN DEL NORTE DAR-SURIGAO DEL NORTE LGU-AGUSAN DEL NORTE DSWD CARAGA DA-CARAGA PGO-SDN Business Manager

ZARINA O. LASTRA Photographer

ROBESPIERRE C. TRADIO

Regional Office Jose Rosales Avenue, Butuan City E-mail: piacaraga@gmail.com;

pia_caraga@yahoo.com.ph Telephone no. (085) 341-5285; Telefax No.: (085) 341-2370 Facebook: PIA Caraga Updates Twitter: @PIACaraga

Information Centers AGUSAN DEL NORTE Jose Rosales Avenue, Butuan City Telephone no. (085) 815-1991 E-mail: pia.northagusan@gmail.com Facebook: PIA Agusan del Norte Twitter: @PIAAgusanNorte

AGUSAN DEL SUR Provincial Government Center, Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur Cellphone no. 0917-723-3455 E-mail: pia.agusandelsur@yahoo.com.ph Facebook: PIA Agusan del Sur Twitter: @AgSurPIA

SURIGAO DEL NORTE/DINAGAT ISLANDS Parrucho corner Magallanes St., Surigao City Telephone no. (086) 826-9450 E-mail: piasurigao@gmail.com Facebook: PIA Surigao del Norte; PIA Dinagat Islands Twitter: @PIASurigaoNorte

SURIGAO DEL SUR Old DPWH Bldg., Telaje, Tandag City Telephone no. (086) 211-3353 E-mail: piasurigaosur@gmail.com; sds_pia@yahoo.com.ph Facebook: PIA Surigao del Sur Twitter: @piasurigaosur