Caraga InFocus – June 27- July 3, 2020

CONTENTS Caraga Infocus

27 June - 03 July 2020

08 09 11 12 14 15 16 17 19 20

Volume IV, No. 27

REGIONAL NEWS

RIACAT-VAWC Caraga readies activities for 2020 WDAT celebration NGO to turn over school building in Butuan P9.8-M illegal drugs seized by PNP-Caraga in Q1 2020 DOH Caraga announces 22 new COVID-19 cases Caraga RDC approves COVID-19 recovery program CHR Caraga holds ‘right to health’ webinar series Caraga RTF vs COVID-19 intensifies interventions as cases rise DOH seeks stricter measures amid spike of Covid cases in Caraga DBP credit relief to institutional borrowers reaches P11-billion Communal garden sa Butuan City, nagbibigay ng pagkain at seguridad

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RIACAT-VAWC Caraga readies activities for 2020 WDAT celebration

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Communal garden sa Butuan City, nagbibigay ng pagkain at seguridad

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Community commercial vegetable production pushed in AgSur town

46 PCOO to help promote agri, domestic tourism

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SoKor extends $5-M humanitarian aid to help PH fight Covid-19

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

Siargao Island tallies first confirmed COVID-19 case; cases in Caraga now total to 138 PH Nickel Industry Association provides P38-M for COVID-19 response Caraga mining firms allot P2.6B for 2019 environmental protection, enhancement program DTI launches seeding program in province of Dinagat Islands Mining firm donates disinfectants, medical supplies to PMO Surigao Community commercial vegetable production pushed in AgSur town 48 FRs take oath of allegiance to gov’t, receive financial assistance Cabadbaran mayor bares efforts in helping farmers, other sectors during COVID-19 crisis Cabadbaran youth joins online contests amid stay-at-home protocol TESDA Agusan Norte chief reminds personnel on the workplace DOH confirms five new cases of COVID-19 in SurSur Tandag City marks 13th charter day

MINDANAO NEWS Tribe seeks PRRD’s intervention to protect Limunsudan Falls Harvest festival showcases hybrid rice production technology

NATIONAL NEWS PCOO to help promote agri, domestic tourism PCOO calls for collective involvement against COVID-19 in “Leading Forward TownHall Meetings Admin, support service workers most affected by shutdown: DOLE P17-B subsidy eyed for public transport PH has sufficient rice supply: Palace

COVID-19 NEWS SoKor extends $5-M humanitarian aid to help PH fight Covid-19 PH winning fight vs. Covid-19: Palace Galvez cites improvement in PH coronavirus response Strict protocol, compliance crucial in curbing Covid-19

DA-PRDP turns over P22 to boost rubber industr

By Fretcher Magatao

T

he Department of Agriculture - Philippine Rural Development Project (DA-PRDP) turns over on Thursday, June 25, the P22.1 million Integrated Rubber Production and Marketing Project for the Km. 7 Farmers’ Producers Cooperative (KFPC) in Tungao, this city.

“This dream is now a reality. We cannot build these facilities on our own.

We’re grateful that the government has responded to our needs through DA-PRDP,” said KFPC Chairman Samuel Calawigan, Jr.

Calawigan said that the enterprise project helps the cooperative in being the service provider for the rubber growers in Butuan City and the neighboring municipalities. They provide inputs, tools, and budded rubber planting materials for the recommended clones.

enterprise project that comprises the completed construction of the warehouse, seedling production building, and seedbed to support its members and rubber growers.

KFPC General Manager Nilo Calipayan said that they are targeting an increase of 500 hectares in rubber plantation per year and the

The P8.4 million of which is the interventions they received would help infrastructure component of the them reach the goal.

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2.1M enterprise project ry in Butuan been completed.

“The members of the cooperative have grown from 158 members to 460.

Most have decided to be part of us when they saw that we are progressing and the cooperative has been managed well,” said Calawigan.

“We’re confident that a project like this will be handled well by the Cooperative. We have seen their hard work and they have maintained their good reputation,” said Caraga

“We’ve been challenged by our Regional Executive Director and DAgoal so we’ve reached out helping PRDP Project Director Abel James I. the rubber growers of the neighboring Monteagudo. municipalities, and not just the cluster members here in Butuan,” Calipayan Other than the completed P22.1 added. million project, there is also the ongoing construction of 9.82 km farm-to-market

The cooperative has a cumulative road (FMR) project amounting to rubber planted area of around 1,400 P158.9 million from DA-PRDP to support hectares for all the members and the Cooperative’s enterprise and the they are expecting an increase in rubber industry in Butuan City. (DAproduction now that the project has PRDP Caraga/PIA Caraga) June 27 - July 3, 2020 |

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News Briefs This year’s National Disaster Resilience Month celebration in July is anchored on the theme “Sama-Samang Pagsulong Tungo sa Katatagan sa Gitna ng Bagong Normal.” xx

“Batang Pinoy SANA TALL… Iwas stunting, SAMA ALL!” is the chosen theme for this year’s Nutrition Month to promote awareness and mobilize actions to address stunting. The theme calls for a collective vision of having taller Filipino children by preventing stunting through the participation of government, non-government organizations, civil society, business, academe, communities and families.

(NNC)

The week of June 30 - July 6, 2019 is Savings Consciousness Week. This annual event seeks to encourage the public to save in banking institutions and further raise awareness on the vital role of savings in the country’s economic development.

GSIS is currently looking for 10,000 college students who are interested to avail of the GSIS Educational Subsidy Program (GESP). Deadline of application is on 15 September 2020.

For more details on how to apply, visit Government Service Insurance System FB Page.

REGIONAL NEWS

RIACAT-VAWC Caraga readies activities for 2020 WDAT celebration

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

Adapting to the new normal during this coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the members of the Regional Inter-Agency Committee Against Trafficking and Violence Against Women and Children (RIACAT-VAWC) Caraga planned to conduct series of activities in line with this year’s World Day Against Trafficking (WDAT) in Persons on July 30.

This includes the Two-day Webinar on Ending the Online Sexual Exploitation of Children (OSEC) by the Department of Education (DepEd) Cabadbaran City

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Division and the Justice Peace Integrity of Creation, Integrated Development Center, Incorporated (JPIC-IDC, Inc).

The committee will also facilitate

the online Poster-Making Contest which will be conducted by the JPIC-IDC and the International Justice Mission (IJM). There are three categories of participants for this contest: primary, secondary students, and government agencies.

person from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga, the committee also welcomes other activities from other sectors in line with the said celebration.

“We are also tapping our media partners to help us in this campaign and in information dissemination of important issues and concerns about trafficking in persons that the public should know,” said Aranas.

A virtual press conference will also be scheduled in the month of July 2020 to discuss updates on WDAT through focal persons from different concerned government agencies under the RIACAT-VAWC. It will be facilitated by July 30 is United Nations World the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Day against Trafficking in Persons, Caraga. established to raise awareness of the plight of human trafficking victims, and

According to Jesse Catherine promote and protect their rights. (JPG/ Aranas, social welfare officer and focal PIA-Caraga)

NGO to turn over school building in Butuan

By Doreen Rosales

A fully furnished, two-story- four-classroom school building will be officially turned over by SM Prime, through SM Foundation, to Villa Kananga Integrated School (VKIS) in Butuan City.

The said building is established under the foundation’s School Building Program and is the first school building of SMFI in the city.

The school building will be equipped with school furniture and the necessary amenities such as armchairs (including left-handed armchairs), teacher’s desk, and table, wall fans,

panoramic whiteboards, wall clocks, washroom with flush toilet in each classroom, ramp for Persons with Disabilities (PWD) and a spacious PWD washroom with flush toilet.

VKIS Principal Carlito Nietes expressed his thanks to the donors of the building, stating that with the additional infrastructure, learners from all levels June 27 - July 3, 2020 |

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and those of the Special Education projected increase in enrolment of (SPED) class will have a better learning learners in the school. environment.

The SM Foundation School Building Program is an active partner of the Department of Education (DepEd) in their Adopt-a-School program. It is a Social Good initiative of SM Foundation that aims to promote quality public education by building classrooms

The addition of a new school nationwide. (Frank Nicol Marba, SMFI/ facility will also be able to address the DMNR/PIACaraga)

“I would like to extend my gratitude to SM Prime Holdings and SM Foundation for their commitment and dedication in supporting their beneficiaries. The new facilities will be conducive for their studies,� he ended.

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P9.8-M illegal drugs seized by PNP-Caraga in Q1 2020

Police Brigadier General Joselito T. Esquivel, Jr, regional director of Philippine National Police (PNP) - Caraga reported that for the period January 1 to June 27 of this year they were able to confiscate P9,879,173.76 worth of shabu, marijuana, and cocaine; arrested 225 drug personalities while two have died during an intensified campaign against illegal drugs in the region.

Record from Regional Operations Management Division 13 revealed that for the said period, a total of 198 drug operations were conducted wherein 661.18 grams of shabu; 14,250 grams of marijuana; and 15 grams of cocaine were confiscated.

On May 8, two anti-illegal drugs operations under Case Operational Plan (COPLAN) Everest-Bravo were conducted in Barangay Kasapa II in La Paz, Agusan del Sur wherein 4,000 and 6,000 marijuana hills were uprooted in two separate plantations, and June 27 - July 3, 2020 |

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amounting to P800,000 and P1,200,000, community. respectively.

“I assure all Caraganons that we

Two separate cases for violation of will sustain all our efforts against all forms Section 16 Republic Act No. 9165 or the of criminality in the region. The people Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act deserve no less and it is our prime duty of 2002, docketed under NPS No.13- as law enforcers that all criminals will be 03-INV-20F-208 and NPS No.13-03-INV- put behind bars,” said BGen. Esquivel.

20F-207 were already filed against Iming Tilocan, legal age, farmer, resident of He added that the community Sitio Landing, Kasapa II, La Paz, Agusan has a significant role in the attainment del Sur, and the identified owner and of sustainable peace in the region. cultivator of said marijuana plantations. “We are calling for your continued support by immediately reporting to

BGen. Esquivel lauded the the nearest police station any illegal operating personnel for their dedication activities or presence of criminals in to duty and sincere commitment your locality,” said BGen Esquivel. (PNPof giving the people a drug-free 13/PIA-Caraga)

DOH Caraga announces 22 new COVID-19 cases

The Department of Health (DOH) Caraga announced on Monday, 152 RT-PCR (Real-Time Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction) results received from Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) sub-national laboratories.

Of the said RT-PCR results received, Antibody-based Test or with relevant 120 tested negative while 32 turned travel and exposure to COVID-19. positive for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) virus.

As revealed, 32 samples are RTPCR confirmed positive for COVID-19:

The negative RT-PCR results are a) Ten follow-up tests of previously from a) Three follow-up tests of previously confirmed cases and b) Twenty-two confirmed cases, b) Four suspect cases, (22) new cases. c) Eight probable cases, and d) results coming from high-risk individuals who Of the 22 cases, 81.82% (18) are either have turned positive in the Rapid Locally Stranded Individuals, 9.09% (2)

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Returning Overseas Filipinos, 9.1% (2) one is a health worker while the other has a history of travel to an area with local transmission. As to sex distribution, 54.55% (12) are females while 45.45% (10) are males. For age group, 50% belong to ages 20-30 years old. Cases are distributed in the following areas: Butuan City (1), Cabadbaran City (2), municipalities in Agusan del NorteBuenavista (1), Carmen (2), Jabonga (1), and Nasipit (2), municipalities in Agusan del Sur- Esperanza (1), Loreto (1), Prosperidad (2), and Sibagat (1), municipalities in Surigao del NorteAlegria (1), Del Carmen (1), Mainit (1), Tubod (1), Bislig City (1), and municipalities of Surigao del SurEID) and the Regional Task Force Carmen (2), Lingig (1).

COVID-19 One Caraga Shield bodies,”

“Based on the data at hand, we Dr. Llacuna said. documented a steadily increase of “Areas with two or more recently cases with the highest number on the 25th morbidity week since January. confirmed cases should strictly follow As of this time, 70.29% (97) of our quarantine and isolation protocols. confirmed cases are coming from the For areas with at least one or one LSIs, 13.04% (18) are ROFs, and 16.67% case, should still adhere to the health (23) are health workers and individuals standards and physical distancing who traveled to areas with local practices. We need to do this because transmission,” DOH Caraga Regional these approaches can reduce further spread of the virus. Likewise, we also Director Jose R. Llacuna, Jr. said. need to protect the vulnerable groups

Majority of the cases (20) are like our elderlies, children and those with asymptomatic (90.91%) while two or pre-existing medical condition; and 9.09% have mild symptoms. All cases are sustain capacity of critical and isolation admitted and isolated at designated beds, as well as protect our frontliners quarantine facilities region wide for and health care workers,” the health chief added. monitoring and management.

“We are decisive with our containment strategies together with the Regional Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Disease (RIATF-

As of this time, Caraga region now has a total of 138 confirmed positive COVID-19 cases. (DOH Caraga/PIA Caraga) June 27 - July 3, 2020 |

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Caraga RDC approves COVID-19 recovery program

By Ann B. Jaquilmac

The Caraga Regional Development Council (RDC) has granted approval on the Caraga Regional Recovery Program (RRP) from COVID-19 during its 102nd Full Council meeting on June 26 via teleconference.

Presented by Caraga RDC ViceChairperson and National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) regional director Bonifacio G. Uy, the RRP is a supplemental program to the Caraga Regional Development Plan (RDP) 2017-2022 Midterm Update, which aims to lay down Caraga’s COVID-19 recovery roadmap taking into account the region’s unique needs arising from the ongoing health crisis.

we are confronted with, we have to deal not just with the socio-economic and health impacts of this pandemic, but also its important implications on the role of the Council – not only as an agent of development, but also as an agent of recovery,” the chairperson said.

In the same meeting, the Caraga RDC also passed Resolution No. 27, Series of 2020, entitled “Supporting the Implementation of the Balik Probinsya, Bagong Pag-asa (BP2) Program and Approving the Creation of the Special BP2 Committee.”

The RRP spells out the overall assessment on the impacts and challenges in the region arising from the pandemic; strategic action plans; and proposed programs, projects, and activities (PPAs) of the key sectors in the

Institutionalized by virtue of region.

Executive Order 114, the BP2 Program

RDC Chairperson and Agusan is geared towards decongesting Metro del Norte Governor Dale B. Corvera Manila’s urban areas by encouraging reiterated the importance of the said people, especially the informal settlers, program in rebooting the economy to return to their home provinces and from the losses it had sustained due to assist them in this transition with support and incentives on transportation, the health crisis. family, livelihood, housing, subsistence

“With the present situation that and education, among others.

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Relative to this, the Council resolved that the Special BP2 Committee shall be chaired by the Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security (CORDS) for Caraga Region, Cabinet Secretary Karlo A.B. Nograles and, as an initiative of the region, co-chaired

by Caraga RDC Chairperson Gov. Dale B. Corvera.

To conclude the meeting, Gov. Corvera has highlighted the importance of cooperation among local authorities primarily to uplift the

welfare of Caraganons difficulties faced.

amid

the

“Our region’s success in bouncing back hinges primarily on our ability to work together, and our accountability in delivering what is expected from each of us. It is only then that we altogether can successfully transition from the pandemic’s harsh effects and step into the ‘new normal’ before us,” he affirmed. (NEDA Caraga/DMNR/ PIA-Caraga)

CHR Caraga holds ‘right to health’ webinar series While the country is battling against the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), it is high time also to better understand the right to health.

Participated by different representatives from regional line agencies, the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) Caraga led a webinar series held on June 24 and 30, 2020.

share the measures their respective offices are undertaking to promote and protect the health of their employees and of course their clients.

Meanwhile, the second session highlighted mental health care in the new normal by Dr. Aime T. Guarino, RGC, RPsy of De La Salle University.

Discussions include RA 11036 or the Mental Health Act and ways on how to cope with the mental health effects of the pandemic at home and in the workplace. (CHR Caraga/PIA Participants were also able to Caraga)

The first session centered on the normative discussion of the right to health by Mi-an Joy Taglucop and Atty.

Ralphmar Oñez of CHR Caraga. The agency saw the importance for these offices to be reminded of the State’s obligation most especially in time of this health crisis.

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Caraga RTF vs COVID-19 intensifies interventions as cases rise

By Xylia G. Ebron

Following the confirmed first case of local transmission of COVID-19 in the region, the Regional Task Force for COVID-19 One Caraga Shield (RTF-COCS) is set to impose additional preventive measures to mitigate the spread of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in the region.

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During its 8th Teleconference Meeting on June 23, members of the task force tackled the moratorium of flights for incoming locally stranded individuals (LSIs) for Caraga Region from June 22 to July 4. The said moratorium shall be limited to LSIs, pending the accreditation of the region’s proposed COVID-19 laboratory testing centers.

Measures to manage the entry of uncoordinated and undocumented LSIs and Returning OFWs (ROFs) were also extensively discussed.

Confirmed cases in the region have increased drastically since the arrival of stranded individuals. Of the 87 confirmed cases, 13 of these are ROFs while 53 are LSIs.

The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Disease (IATF-MEID) has approved their request during their 46th meeting on June 15.

The task force also passed Resolution No. 47, Series of 2020, entitled “A Resolution Exempting Bank Personnel Who are Transporting Money in the Region from Checkpoint Protocols, Provided That They Wear Complete Personal Protective Equipment,” for the safety and security of said personnel.

The meeting also enabled the designation of Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Caraga Regional Director and RTF for COVID-19 Chairperson Liza R. Mazo as spokesperson of the task force.

(NEDA Caraga/DMNR/PIACaraga)

DOH seeks stricter measures amid spike of Covid cases in Caraga

By Alexander Lopez

The Department of Health in the Caraga Region (DOH-13) has called on the implementation of stricter health protocols as new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) are recorded in the area.

This came as DOH-13 Director Jose Llacuna Jr., announced on Monday (June 29) the 22 new cases of Covid-19 in the region, raising the

area’s total cases to 138.

Llacuna said they received the results of the 152 Reverse transcriptionpolymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) June 27 - July 3, 2020 |

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tests from the Davao Medical Center in Nasipit, and two in Cabadbaran in Davao City Monday.

City.

Of the 152 test results, 120 turned negative that include the three followup tests of previous Covid-19 cases in the region, he added.

Five new cases are also confirmed in Agusan del Sur that include one in Esperanza, one in Loreto, two in Prosperidad, and one in Sibagat.

“Regretfully, 32 samples turned positive, 10 are the follow-up test of previous Covid-19 cases while the 22 are considered new Covid-19 cases in the region,” Llacuna said.

Four new cases are also reported in Surigao del Sur, to include one in the town of Alegria, one in Del Carmen (Siargao Island), one in Mainit, and one in Tubod.

Of the 22 new Covid-19 cases in the region, 18 are Locally Stranded Individuals (LSIs), two are Returning Overseas Filipinos (ROFs), one patient has a travel history in Metro Manila, and one health care worker, Llacuna said.

In Surigao del Sur, four new cases are reported by DOH-13, to include two in the town of Carmen, one in Lingig, and one in Bislig City.

“We observe the continuing of Covid-19 cases in our region starting from June 14 until now. Let us strictly

Twelve of the new cases are implement containment measures. females while 10 are males with ages Strict quarantines must be put in place ranging from 20 to 30-years-old, DOH- in areas where there are already two 13 records showed. or more Covid-19 cases,” Llacuna said.

“Twenty of the new cases are asymptomatic and are now isolated He noted that of the 138 total in the quarantine facilities in their cases of Covid-19 in the region, 97 are respective local government units LSIs, 18 are ROFs while the remaining (LGUs) while two are experiencing 23 are health workers and individuals mild symptoms and are now confined who had histories of travels in areas in the region’s treatment facilities,” with Covid-19 cases.

Llacuna said.

He also urged the people of

One new case is confirmed in Caraga to follow the minimum health Butuan City while seven new cases standards and emphasized that are recorded in Agusan del Norte that everyone must stay in their homes includes one in the town of Buenavista, especially the senior citizens, the two in Carmen, one in Jabonga, two minors, and children. (PNA)

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DBP credit relief to institutional borrowers reaches P11-billion

State-run Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) granted payment moratorium of up to six months to 386 borrowers under an existing loan program that provides financing support for the rehabilitation efforts of both public and private institutions adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, a top official said.

DBP President and Chief Executive Officer Emmanuel G. Herbosa said the payment deferment totaled P11.12billion, which was granted under the Bank’s Rehabilitation Support Program on Severe Events (DBP RESPONSE) and benefitted companies from key client groups such as construction, manufacturing, health, education, transport and storage among others.

panaynews.net as they gradually capitalize on the easing quarantine restrictions, which have taken a toll on their businesses,” Herbosa said.

DBP is the eighth largest bank in the country in terms of assets and provides credit support to four strategic sectors of the economy – infrastructure and logistics, micro, small and medium enterprises, social services and

“DBP is committed to provide community development, and the the necessary support to our clients environment.

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The payment moratorium is DBP’s response to government’s call for financial institutions to grant additional temporary credit relief to borrowers whose businesses were affected by the COVID-19 heath threat, which is among the provisions in Republic Act No. 11469 or the Bayanihan to Heal As One Act.

Herbosa said DBP has also approved new loans amounting to P400-million to two manufacturing companies and a local government unit (LGU) for their respective crisis response and recovery plans under DBP RESPONSE.

He urged local businesses, LGUs, and other government entities to seize the opportunity during the crisis to improve their existing systems and strengthen business continuity programs to mitigate the impact of future pandemics or similar crisis situations.

“We at DBP are ready to provide the needed tools and assistance to our partners in the business community and fellow government institutions as they reassess the cogency of their existing systems amidst a vastly-changed socioeconomic environment spawned by this pandemic,” Herbosa said. (DBP/PIA Caraga)

Communal garden sa Butuan City, nagbibigay ng pagkain at seguridad

By Nora C. Lanuza

Sa layuning mas matugunan pa ang pangangailan ng sapat na pagkain at seguridad sa panahon ng COVID-19 pandemic, mga residente ng isang komunidad sa lungsod sa tulong ng Department of Agriculture o DA ayon sa plant, plant, plant program o agri-4Ps ng ahensya, nagtulong-tulong ang mga residente upang magkaroon ng isang communal garden sa loob mismo ng subdivision.

Sa pangunguna ni Hanawi Alauya, isang empleyado ng Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources o BFAR at residente sa nasabing lugar kasama ang pitong pamilya na apektado ang hanapbuhay dahil sa

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enhanced community quarantine o ECQ, sinimulan nila ang isang communal garden sa isang 400-square meter na bakanteng lote sa buwan ng Abril upang matugunan ang kanilang pangangailan sa pagkain.

Saysay pa ni Alauya, naramdaman niya ang pangangailan ng kanyang mga kapitbahay kaya’t kinombinsi niya silang magtanim sa bakanteng lote at kukuha ng seedlings sa DA.

nagkaroon din sila ng magandang relasyon ng kanyang mga anak dahil nagtutulongan sila dito.

Kabilang sa mga pananim sa communal garden ay ang pechay,

Tulong-tulong sa pagtanim, pag- mustasa, okra, opo, alugbati at talong. alaga at ngayon ay nakikinabang na sila nito. Si Lyn Montes, isang tricycle Sa ngayon, nadagdagan pa driver at asawang construction worker ng 300-square meter ang kanilang na parehong apektado ang kanilang tinataniman at may plano na silang kabuhayan dahil sa ECQ ay masaya lakihan pa at magtanim ng mais sa sa pagkakaroon ng communal pamamagian ng project maisan sa garden sa kanilang lugar. Anya hindi nataran o pro-mais movement, ang lang ito nakakatulong sa araw-araw bagong food production initiative ng nilang pagkain, kumikita din sila at DA. (NCL/PIA Caraga) June 27 - July 3, 2020 |

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

Siargao Island tallies first confirmed COVID-19 case; cases in Caraga now total to 138

By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales

Authorities confirm the first confirmed coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) case in the municipality of Del Carmen in Siargao Island.

The said case is one of the 22 new confirmed cases reported by the Department of Health (DOH) Caraga on Monday, June 29. Eighteen of these cases are locally stranded individuals (LSIs), two returning overseas Filipinos (ROFs), one with a travel history in Metro Manila while the other is a health care worker.

City; 1 in Buenavista; 2 in Carmen; 1 in Jabonga; and 2 in Nasipit, all of which are areas in the province of Agusan del Norte; 1 in Esperanza; 1 in Loreto; 2 in Prosperidad; and 1 in Sibagat in Agusan del Sur; 1 in Bislig City; 2 in Carmen; and 1 in Lingig, Surigao del Sur; one confirmed case in the municipalities of Alegria, Mainit, and Tubod in Surigao del Norte, and one

Twenty are asymptomatic and in Butuan City. are now isolated in the quarantine facilities in their respective local Meanwhile, ten of the previously government units (LGUs) while two tallied cases also tested positive in are experiencing mild symptoms of their follow-up tests. the disease and are now confined Caraga region now has a total in the treatment facilities in the of 138 cases, wherein seven are region. discharged, 28 have recovered but are to complete quarantine period,

Per the health department’s and 103 are still admitted and on data, the area distribution of the strict facility quarantine. (DMNR/ cases are as follows: 2 in Cabadbaran PIACaraga) June 27 - July 3, 2020 |

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PH Nickel Industry Association provides P38-M for COVID-19 response

The members of the Philippine Nickel Industry Association (PNIA) have collectively disbursed more than P38 million of their Social Development Management Program (SDMP) fund for various coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) relief efforts to benefit frontliners and host communities during the two-month enhanced community quarantine period (ECQ).

PNIA has also been working in solidarity with Act as One, Kalinga Kontra Kovid (KKK) QC, as well as local and national government authorities in

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providing assistance to key hospitals in Metro Manila and to more than 66,200 households in Caraga, Zambales, and Palawan.

“We try our best to keep our commitment to our host communities especially during these trying times.

It’s definitely a challenging time for our business operations but our local communities are our partners throughout the years and saving lives is our priority right now,” said Atty. Dante R. Bravo, PNIA president.

Aside from providing 31,800 food packs and sharing over 26,960 sacks of rice to their host communities, mining companies also organized transportation for displaced individuals, set up disinfection tents and facilitated disinfection drives in the area.

Other member companies likewise sourced majority of its fresh produce from local farmers and other goods from local establishments to stimulate the region’s economy. Due to ECQ restrictions on transportation, these farmers faced the risk of spoilage of their produce – in addition to the challenge of putting food on their own tables.

Over and beyond allocating SDMP funds, PNIA members have also prepared a COVID-19 response fund to support employees and local community stakeholders through salary continuance, and various forms of assistance during the crisis.

“We also ensure highest health and safety standards are enforced in our mining operations, during and beyond the ECQ to protect the welfare of our employees, partners, and communities. PNIA members are strictly following quarantine protocols and information campaign efforts to help mitigate transmission of the virus,” said Bravo.

PNIA members have also been resolute in implementing quarantine protocol guidelines mandated by the Inter-Agency Task Force for COVID-19 (IATF) in coordination with local government authorities. The companies also augment the local government’s information and education drive by proactively promoting awareness on social distancing and proper hygiene PNIA member companies donated procedures within the local host over 20,300 units of medical supplies communities. including facemasks, personal protective equipment (PPEs), digital Looking beyond the pandemic, thermal scanners, vitamins, and other PNIA members looks forward to bounce medical and disinfection supplies to back and help reinvigorate the local government units and various country’s economy towards recovery. non-government organizations.

“Each company is doing its best to

In addition, PNIA recently donated balance the impact of this crisis and at 5,000 test kits through Act as One to the same time uphold the safety of all help fast track rapid testing efforts of our stakeholders but we are optimistic local government units in Metro Manila that will survive this,” Bravo said. (PNIA/ and other selected cities in the country. PIA-Surigao del Norte) June 27 - July 3, 2020 |

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Caraga mining firms allot P2.6B for 2019 environmental protection, enhancement program

The Caraga minerals industry has upheld its commitment to protect the environment and implement initiatives to enhance nature as it continues to fuel economic growth.

By Christie A. Apale

For Calendar Year 2019, the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) Caraga has recorded a total amount of P2,605,357,379.00 expended by mining companies in the region for the implementation of the Annual Environmental Protection and Enhancement Program (AEPEP).

The AEPEP is in compliance with Section 171 of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Administrative Order No. 2010-21, the Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic Act 7942 or the Philippine Mining Act of 1995, wherein a mining company shall allocate for its annual environmentrelated expense a percentage which may approximate a minimum of three to five percent (3-5%) of its direct mining and milling costs depending on the environment/geologic condition,

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nature and scale of operations and technology employed.

Based on MGB Memorandum Circular No. 2018-02, the AEPEP is divided into seven major components, namely Land Resource Management; Water Resource and Quality; Air Quality; Noise and Vibration; Conservation Values; Environmental Research; and Other Activities such as trainings and Information, Education and Communication.

Eighty-one percent (81%) of the total amount is attributed to mining companies in Surigao del Norte where the primary commodities are nickel, iron and other associated minerals and major activities include land resource management, specifically backfilling, reshaping, re-contouring and planting of mined-out areas, and air quality

management, specifically water Baguio City. The company has initiated spraying to ensure that air quality is thematic landscaping and established within the DENR standards. a wildlife garden within the mine site which proved that mining and

The only mineral processing plant ecotourism can coexist. in the province, Taganito HPAL Nickel Corporation, has expended a huge More than three percent (3%) amount of its budget for water resource of the total amount was contributed and quality, specifically the control by the mining and milling companies of process tailings and wastewater. in Agusan del Sur where the primary Nickel mining companies in Surigao del commodities are gold and silver.

Sur contributed more than six percent Major AEPEP activities include land (6%) of the total amount where major resource management, specifically activities are mainly in land resource slope stabilization in Agsao River which management (rehabilitation of mined- is located at the mine site and access out areas, access road maintenance road maintenance, and water resource and nursery operations, among others) and quality such as maintenance of and water resource and quality like water treatment facility and de-silting construction and maintenance of of settling ponds. settling ponds and other environmental structures.

Mindanao Mineral Processing and Refining Corporation, a mineral

In Agusan del Norte, nickel processing plant in the province, has also mining companies shared almost shown a very satisfactory performance six percent (6%) of the amount in environmental management as one and the major activities are in land of the recipients of the 2019 PMIE Award resource management such as for mineral processing category during access road maintenance and the 66 th ANMSEC. The company has stockyard management and air turned one of its tailings storage facilities quality management, specifically dust into a picturesque landscaped area suppression through water spraying. that serves as a tourism spot frequently visited by locals.

Agata Mining Ventures, Inc., located in the province of Agusan Lastly, mining companies in the del Norte, has shown an exemplary Province of Dinagat Islands have performance in the implementation of its spent more than three percent (3%) AEPEP and bagged the 2019 Presidential of the P2.6 billion for the 2019 AEPEP. Mineral Industry Environmental Award Major activities include land resource (PMIEA) for surface mining category management like seedling production during the 66th Annual National Mine in the nursery and backfilling/reshaping Safety and Environment Conference of mined-out areas for rehabilitation and (ANMSEC) held last November 2019 in water resource and quality to include June 27 - July 3, 2020 |

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construction and maintenance of Lately, proper concern and regard settling ponds and other environmental for the environment have become structures. one of the fundamental elements of a successful minerals industry given

Cagdianao Mining Corporation, that there is an increasing level of located in the province, is also a PMIEA attention to environmental issues in the awardee for surface mining category mining business. It is believed that the in 2019. The company performed well in economics-environment trade-off is its agro-plantation development in the not so sharp as once thought and that mine site that showcased the fact that mining companies that are efficient in mining and agriculture can go together. their main activity of mineral extraction With all these accomplishments, the are also best at environmental picture of mining companies operating protection. (MGB-13/PIA-Surigao del with little regard for nature is no longer Norte) accurate.

DTI launches seeding program in province of Dinagat Islands The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in the Province of Dinagat Islands through the Negosyo Center Basilisa has its first launching of the Livelihood Seeding Program - Negosyo Serbisyo sa Barangay (LSP-NSB) for 2020 in Barangay Benglen, Basilisa.

The three-day profiling of potential grantees on June 8–10, 2020 was attended by 100 micro and small entrepreneurs.

“Barangay Benglen was chosen as a beneficiary barangay because of its seen potential in economic development, it being a home to the priority industries of DTI Province of Dinagat Islands,� said DTI-PDI Provincial

Said launching was divided into Director Arnold Faelnar. three batches to ensure that the physical distancing and health protocols were These industries include cashew production and aquaculture activities followed.

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| June 27 - July 3, 2020

such as king crab and bangus production. Also situated near the Gaas Inlet River, the barangay holds potentials in engaging in the tourism industry.

of profiling the participants to identify eligible beneficiaries of the program.

Said DTI provincial office has also already reached Barangay Diegas in Basilisa, Barangay Matingebe in San

“As a far-flung barangay of Jose and Barangay Nueva Estrella in Basilisa, bordering the municipality of Cagdianao.

Cagdianao, the roads going to Brgy.

Benglen has become a challenge LSP-NSB focuses on expanding for the personnel, but seeing the the services to MSME beneficiaries in potentials of the place, DTI focused identified barangays including those in on the possible developments it can the Local Communist Armed Conflict usher through the beneficiary micro, (LCAC) affected areas and Indigenous small and medium entrepreneurs People (IP) communities, and to MSMEs composed mostly of individuals from affected by natural and human-induced the fisher folk, farming and women calamities including health disasters sectors,� Faelnar added. arising from epidemics and pandemics to promote entrepreneurship and

The LSP-NSB aims to provide a bridge the income inequality gaps in package of livelihood kits and business the peripheries. advisory services to Micro-Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

In 2019, the program has covered 3,066 barangays in the entire country,

As of press time, DTI Province of assisting 41,520 MSMEs. (DTI-Caraga/ Dinagat Islands is still on the process PIA-Caraga) June 27 - July 3, 2020 |

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Mining firm donates disinfectants, medical supplies to PMO Surigao

By Nole C. Nusog

The Port Management Office (PMO) of Surigao got itself a much-valued partner in the fight against the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID 19) when it received gallons of disinfectants and other medical supplies from Hinatuan Mining Corporation (HMC).

More than a dozen gallons of 70% isopropyl alcohol, ten boxes of ascorbic acid oral supplement (with 60 capsules per box) and a barrel containing 40 kilograms of industrial-grade Calcium Hypochlorite powder for foot baths were provided by HMC for the benefit of port users in the Port of Surigao and other ports under PMO Surigao’s jurisdiction.

HMC Resident Mine Manager Francisco J. Arañes Jr. personally turned over the donated items to PMO Surigao Acting Port Manager Froilan U. Caturla in simple ceremonies held at the Port of Surigao on June 23, 2020.

As part of the company’s Social Development and Management Program (SDMP), HMC extended similar aids to various agencies/entities such as the Bureau of Customs, and

A hundred pieces of high-quality other vulnerable communities affected washable face masks were also given by the pandemic. (PMO-Surigao/PIAfor the use of port front-liners.

Surigao del Norte)

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Community commercial vegetable production pushed in AgSur town

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

As a way to help the affected sectors in the barangays during this coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the local government unit (LGU) of Trento in Agusan del Sur, in partnership with a private sector, has launched a Commercial Vegetable Production Farm in Barangay Manat of said municipality.

The target beneficiaries are planting various types of vegetables at the eight hectares of land provided to them.

The program aims to establish a local market with locally produced organic vegetables from the barangay’s farm.

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Along with this, the Agumil Plantations which provided the farm land has signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), together with the Barangay Local Government of Manat, whose residents are the ones planting and monitoring the development of the farm, and the LGU-Trento who provided the seedlings through the municipal agriculture office.

“I am thankful particularly to the 75th Infantry Battalion, to our barangay officials, Department of Agriculture, API company, and LGU Trento which really made effort and pushed for the implementation of this program to help us here in our barangay,” said Jobert Galano, a grower-beneficiary in Barangay Manat.

Trento Mayor William Calvez urged the locals to steward the community commercial vegetable production farm and sustain it, as it helps support

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their livelihood during this pandemic.

The establishment of a trading post for the harvested vegetables is also underway.

“We really have to make this work effectively. Technically, the DA is here to help us in this endeavor. And the government will look for ways to market the harvested products,” bared Mayor Calvez.

Barangay chairperson Danny Concepcion was thankful to the government and partners for the said program in their area.

Meanwhile, Alvin Defeo, the manager of Agumil Plantations emphasized that this is their way of reaching out to the affected sectors with the hope that this will be maintained and useful for the beneficiaries in the entire municipality. (JPG/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

48 FRs take oath of allegiance to gov’t, receive financial assistance

By Nora C. Lanuza

Forty-eight former members of the communist New People’s Army (NPAs) consist of 42 members of Guerrilla Front 4A (GF4A) operating in the areas of Las Nieves, Buenavista, Nasipit, Carmen in the province of Agusan del Norte, Gingoog City, and Butuan City; and six members from the Guerrilla Front 88 (GF88) operating in the areas of Agusan del Sur and Bukidnon have signed a manifesto withdrawing their support to the communist terrorist group (CTG).

The former rebels (FRs) have to go back to the government. He also decided to go back to the government asked them to be a partner of the to have a peaceful life with their families. province’s development.

Agusan del Norte Governor Dale “I am asking you to support us in B. Corvera thanked the FRs for deciding ending the insurgency problem in our June 27 - July 3, 2020 |

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place,” he said. The governor then read the pledge of withdrawal of support and requested them to raise their right hand in front of the other provincial officials, police personnel, and media partners and to sincerely pledge their withdrawal of support to the communist terrorist group.

military to stop local communist armed conflict in order to live peacefully,” she said.

In showing their sincere intention of going back and supporting the government in their fight against terrorism, the FRs also burned the CTG’s flag at the Philippine National Police

Col. Cerilo C. Balaoro, Jr., the (PNP) Caraga grandstand. deputy brigade commander of 402nd PBGen. Joselito T. Esquivel, Jr., Infantry Brigade, Philippine Army, also asked the FRs to help in convincing regional director of PNP Caraga, their former comrades to go back to thanked the FRs for their acts of signing the folds of the law and help in their the manifesto of withdrawal of support peace initiatives. “I urged you to help to the CTG. He was also confident that stop the armed struggle and let’s give the government is winning against the terrorist group. peace a chance,” he said.

The FRs also recited the Panunumpa sa Watawat ng Pilipinas led by Agusan del Norte 2nd district representative Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba. “By reciting this, you are now again a Filipino that not only love peace, but want to give peace to our fellow Filipinos, be an instrument of change and help the police and the

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Meanwhile, because of the acts shown by the FRs and while the government is still validating and processing their Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) benefits, Rep. Matba and Gov. Corvera gave cash assistance to the 48 and the seven newlysurrendered FRs. (NCL/PIA Agusan del Norte)

Cabadbaran mayor bares efforts in helping farmers, other sectors during COVID-19 crisis

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

During the Network Briefing on Friday hosted by Secretary Martin Andanar of the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO), Mayor Judy Amante of Cabadbaran City bared efforts in helping affected sectors to cope with the new normal amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

Amante bared that the city government has provided a P2-million loan assistance to the cooperatives in the city for them to be able to buy the palay seedlings and for rice milling.

“We have also facilitated the release of P5,000 to each of the 200 rice farmers. And we are thankful to the Department of Agriculture because this is one of their programs and they June 27 - July 3, 2020 |

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continue to assist the city in providing the needed aid for the affected farmers.

Aside from that, our farmers also received one sack of rice each,” she said.

Now that the city is already under the Modified General Community Quarantine (MGCQ), Amante said that the farmers’ produce are back on tract and they assist them in bringing it to the market. “The city government also got milled rice direct from our farmers which we used during the distribution of rice subsidy for the affected households in the barangays,” she added.

“This year, the city government also has started the establishment of the construction of cottages of our beach in Caasinan, and we will also establish our Tourism Information and Pasalubong Center. So now, even if we are under MGCQ, our targeted projects are still being implemented,” said Amante.

Mayor Amante further said that relief assistance were also provided to the non-Social Amelioration Program (SAP) beneficiaries and non-4Ps (Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program) in the city.

The business establishments in the city that were permitted to operate are also being monitored if they comply with the imposed standards and health protocols as they accommodate clients.

Meanwhile, on the tourism aspect, Mayor Amante revealed that the city government continues to implement the infrastructure projects which include the provincial road leading to River Tugnaw and Baranas Falls, Sitio Saburo to Mahaba provincial road leading to Sumag-a Falls.

“We need to get moving and help the sectors survive this crisis especially those small businesses which were not able to operate for months since the onset of the COVID-19. The city government sees to it that there is balance in addressing our health concerns and our economy,” Amante underscored. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

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Cabadbaran youth joins online contests amid stay-at-home protocol

By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales

The Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Federation of Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte continues to partake in the government’s fight against the pandemic through engaging in different recreational online contests launched by the local government.

In today’s Laging Handa Network Briefing with Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar, the city’s SK Federation president Crestin Joy Bermudez bared that their youth has been made to participate in online contests launched province-wide while they remain idle in the entire duration of heightened community quarantine.

government, they will also be distributing food packs to residents of the city.

The SK Federation in her own community was able to distribute 1,752 food packs to fellow residents. Other SK Chairpersons will also be starting their distribution soon as preparations have been made.

“The youth were able to participate in various contests such as e-sports, Mobile Legends (ML) contest, where photo contest, and spoken word poetry. An online painting contest will be launched next week,” she elaborated.

Bermudez also encouraged her fellow youth to contribute in their own little ways to the initiatives of the local government to address pressing issues faced due to health crisis and to remain obedient to the directives of the authorities.

As for the youth organization’s future projects for the pandemic, Bermudez stated that in addition to the food aid provided by the city

“To my fellow youth, I ask that you continue to abide protocols that have been set during this pandemic,” she said. (DMNR/PIACaraga) June 27 - July 3, 2020 |

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TESDA Agusan Norte chief reminds personnel on the workplace

By Robert E. Roperos

Acting Provincial Director Liza B. Budtan of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)-Agusan del Norte Provincial Office reminded all personnel to strictly adhere the workplace guidance for the new normal.

Speaking before the personnel of the provincial office during the Provincial Quality Management Committee (PQMC) meeting held recently here, Dir. Budtan emphasized the need of the personnel to religiously follow the guidelines issued by TESDA Sec. Isidro S. Lapeña so that health of the personnel as well as the clients will not be places to risk, especially that the City of Butuan was placed back to Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine after the number of COVD19 cases increased in the previous days.

“Though the said guidelines were already discussed with the personnel upon receiving the TESDA Circular 055, series of 2020 re: TESDA Workplace Guidelines for the New Normal,” it is but necessary that personnel should be always reminded of the do’s and don’ts in dealing with clients especially these times,” Dir. Budtan stressed.

Dir. Budtan further said, the TESDA Circular is composed of eight

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guidelines that will surely be taken into consideration as the personnel is dealing with different types of clients daily.

The official underscored the importance of wearing face masks.

She added the provincial office has already implemented a “No Face Mask, No Entry” policy immediately after the city was placed in community quarantine in March. “We made sure that all personnel as well as our clients have followed this policy.

Just recently, Dir. Budtan said all clients who wish to transact with the provincial office must be subjected to no-contact thermal scanning. She pointed out that as per TESDA Guidelines, person/s whose temperature reading is 37.5 degrees and above and those suffering from fever, flu, cough, and colds shall not be allowed to enter. All operating units in the RCPOTI are required to purchase thermal scanners.

“Actually, those who will enter the provincial office have undergone two times no-contact thermal scanning since the provincial LGU is also conducting thermal scanning to those who enter the provincial capitol premises where the TESDA-Agusan del Norte Provincial Office is located at the back of the capitol building,� she said.

As of June 29, 2020, the Department of Health (DOH) Center for Health Development (CHD) Caraga posted in their Facebook page a total of 138 COVID-19 confirmed cases in Caraga Region with Butuan City as the second highest in the region next to Surigao del Norte with 34 and 35, respectively. (TESDA-Agusan del Norte/ PIA Agusan del Norte)

DOH confirms five new cases of COVID-19 in SurSur

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

Another five new coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) positive cases were added in Surigao del Sur bringing the total of COVID-19 cases in the province to eight, according to the Department of Health (DOH)Caraga Region Regional Director Dr. Jose Llacuna Jr.

Based on the June 22 report, of the five new cases added, two were from Cantilan town, two from Bislig City, and one from Tandag City.

Governor Alexander Pimentel, in an interview aired over Radyo Pilipinas Tandag, revealed that the positive case recorded in Tandag City is a locally stranded individual (LSI) from Cebu.

It can be recalled that the announcement of the Department of Health (DOH) Regional Director Jose Llacuna Jr. on Friday, June 19 brought several reactions on social media, in which, Surigao del Sur was included in the list for the first time with three COVID-19 confirmed positive.

The

Provincial

Health

reported that the first three confirmed in Surigao del Sur included: a 43-yearold, male, a returning overseas Filipino (ROF) from KSA and arrived Surigao del Sur last May 30, 2020. The 2nd case is a 87-year-old, male, a locally stranded individual from Davao City, while the 3rd case is a 36-year-old, male with a travel history from Butuan City. They were all asymptomatic and on strict facility quarantine.

Meanwhile, the previous suspect case admitted at Cortes Municipal Hospital was tested negative for COVID-19.

As of June 22, Bislig City has four COVID-19 positive cases, two in Cantilan town, one in Lingig town, and Office one in Tandag City. (PIA-Surigao del Sur) June 27 - July 3, 2020 |

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Tandag City marks 13th charter day

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

The city government here celebrated its 13th Charter Day recently with a simple ceremony in the light of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. This year’s theme is “Padayon Paglambo!”

Previously, the celebration was highlighted with the delivery of the State of the City Address (SOCA) but Tandag City Mayor Roxanne Pimentel has decided to cancel it this year and other festivities due to the pandemic.

The simple celebration was started with a holy mass at the new San Nicolas de Tolentino Cathedral in Barangay Rosario officiated by Most Reverend Raul B. Dael, Bishop of Tandag, joined by the city government officials and employees, including the attached national government agencies in the city. It was followed by a motorcade and it was concluded with a public awareness activity at the city hall.

Also during the celebration, Mayor Pimentel led the distribution of the 10-kilogram bag of rice and grocery package to all the employees of the city

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government held at the City Legislative Building in Barangay Awasian. The said distribution is a way of extending gratitude to the employees who are working behind the whole system of the city government in extending basic services to Tandaganons.

On the same day, around 8,133 bags of 10 kilograms rice were distributed to six center barangays of Tandag City: Telaje; Rosario; Mabua Bag-ong Lungsod; Dagocdoc; and Bongtud.

It can be recalled that on June 23, 2007, under the administration of former Tandag Mayor Alexander Pimentel now the provincial governor of Surigao del Sur, Tandag town was officially proclaimed as a component city after the plebiscite pursuant to Republic Act 9392. (with a report from Tandag CityLGU/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

MINDANAO NEWS

Tribe seeks PRRD’s intervention to protect Limunsudan Falls

By Prexx Marnie Kate Trozo

PROTECTION. Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Secretary Emmanuel Piñol visits the Limunsudan Falls on Tuesday. Mindanao’s Higaonon tribesmen are appealing to President Rodrigo Duterte to help them protect and preserve the hidden giant waterfalls in the boundaries of Bukidnon, Lanao del Sur and Lanao del Norte. (Photo from Sec. Piñol’s Facebook page)

Mindanao’s Higaonon tribesmen are appealing to President Rodrigo Duterte to help them protect and preserve the hidden giant waterfalls in the boundaries of Bukidnon, Lanao del Sur and Lanao del Norte.

Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Secretary Emmanuel Piñol said Saturday the tribesmen considered the Limunsudan Falls as a sacred place but worries mounted as the waterfalls

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are reportedly eyed as a potential hydropower generation resource.

“Tribal leader Julius Dimdim, who guided us as we explored the waterfalls,

said that it scares the Higaonon tribe as reports that big companies are eyeing the Limunsudan Falls for hydropower generation,” he said.

He added that Dimdim, who was born in the area, said an American explorer who ignored the tribal belief died soon after visiting the area.

The Higaonons, a tribe in Northern Mindanao, have lived in the area for hundreds of years and the area around the majestic waterfalls is a sacred place for them.

“He said destroying the waterfalls would displease the spirits and it could bring untold miseries of the tribe. Whether this tribal belief is true or not, as chairman of MinDA, I support the position of the Higaonons,” Piñol added.

The Limunsudan Falls is a two-tiered waterfall in the Bayug River which flows down from Bukidnon to Lanao del Norte.

“In fact, before we started taking photos of the falls last Tuesday, the Higaonon religious leader performed a ritual which they said was their way of seeking permission of the spirits,” Piñol said.

“We should preserve and protect this wonder of nature so that the next generation of Filipinos will appreciate the blessings that God has given this country. There are more sustainable ways of generating the power needed for development other than destroying this wonder of Nature,” he added. (PNA)

Harvest festival showcases hybrid rice production technology

By Albashir Saiden

The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (MAFARBARMM) spearheaded Sunday the opening of a harvest festival at a 150-hectare model farm in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao.

The event, featured in Barangay Sapalan of the town, showcased the importance of community-based technology on hybrid rice production for the model farm.

“This is to accustom farmers in the region on hybrid rice production and its positive economic impact,” MAFARBARMM minister Dr. Mohammad Yacob said.

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While there, the MAFAR personnel also conducted field visitation and crop-cutting activities and provided information dissemination on inbred and hybrid rice production.

“Our demo farm is undeniably the fruit of your [farmers’] coordination, effort and unity especially with the support of our local government unit (LGU),” Yacob said.

He said MAFAR is closely monitoring the strenuous efforts of farmers for rice production, including harvesting and marketing in the region, for ample staple food supply.

Farmers in the village, through a local cooperative, were also recipients of farming equipment that included one set of walk-behind transplanter and one set of rice thresher machines to further improve the rice production in the area.

HARVEST FESTIVAL. Dr. Mohammad Yacob, head of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Aquatic Resources–Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao happily inspected the yield of hybrid rice varieties during a harvest festival held on Sunday (June 28, 2020) at a 150-hectare model farm in Datu Odin Sinsuat Maguindanao. Yacob (inset), who also led the ceremonial crop-cutting activity, said the program aims to accustom BARMM farmers to hybrid rice production and its progressive agroeconomic impact in the region. (Photo courtesy of MAFAR-BARMM)

“I am in full support of the MAFARBARMM programs in my town and the rest

Alex Ibrahim, head of the Local of the region,” she said.

Farm Technicians–BARMM, said that with A day earlier, a “MAFARlengke” the new equipment and hybrid rice seeds, harvests are expected to double or triple program presenting bountiful harvests of vegetables, fruits and other farm in the coming months. products, also took center stage at the

“Before, we can only harvest a municipality. maximum of 40 sacks of rice per hectare.

Around 500 farmers and stakeholders Now, we were able to produce almost 115-120 sacks of rice per hectare after we in the province’s 36 municipalities, utilized hybrid production,” he said of the together with representatives from the Bureau of Plant Industry, National model farm harvest.

Irrigation Administration, Municipal and

Datu Odin Sinsuat Mayor Cheryl Provincial Agricultural Officers, among Rose Mary Ann Lu-Sinsuat has expressed others, participated and witnessed the joy over the success of the model farm in performance of hybrid rice varieties used in the demo farm. (PNA) her municipality.

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NATIONAL NEWS

SEC. MARTIN ANDANAR PCOO

NEWS CORNER

PCOO to help promote agri, domestic tourism

News Agency. All government media machinery is at your disposal),” he told Vigan City Mayor Juan Carlo Medina.

Measures against preventing the spread of the disease have dramatically affected the tourism sector and the livelihood of its workers.

Medina said they have crafted policies in response to pandemic and are closely coordinating with the private sectors, to help them recover while there is a Covid-19 crisis.

Aside from allowing hotels to accommodate front-liners, he said the city government is also partnering with Presidential Communications local cooperatives in offering loans to Operations Office (PCOO) micro, small, and medium enterprises Secretary Martin Andanar on with 10 months moratorium.

Tuesday committed to help in the promotion of the tourism and agriculture industry in provinces greatly affected by the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic.

During the Network Briefing News virtual program, Andanar expressed his support in helping the city government of Vigan showcase the city’s economic sectors.

“Ang opisina ko po ay opisina rin po ninyo. Whatever you need, assistance sa media, sa PTV, Radyo Pilipinas, Philippine News Agency, lahat po ng government media machinery ay nasa disposal po ninyo (My office is your office as well. Whatever you need assistance from the media, such as PTV, Radyo Pilipinas, Philippine

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“We have also partnered with a local cooperative here. Naglagay po tayo ng pondo. Para po magbigay ng loan para sa ating mga MSMEs na tinamaan din po nitong pandemya (We have also partnered with a local cooperative here. We allocated funds so that we can offer loans to our micro, small and medium enterprises that were affected by this pandemic),” he said.

Medina said the 10 months moratorium would allow MSMEs to earn before they start paying their loans.

As early as January this year, Medina said Vigan City, widely known for its picturesque Hispanic architecture, has reported that the number of tourists dipped from the expected 150,000 to about 20,000.

“Ang pinaka-affected talaga sa amin ang tourism sector. January pa lamang naramdaman na po namin.

We were expecting 150,000 tourists coming to Vigan. Ang dumating lang po ay 20,000 [For us, the tourism sector was greatly affected. Even at the start of January, we already felt it.

We expected that 150,000 tourists will be coming to Vigan but only 20,000 came],” he said.

He also noted that the temporary stoppage of operations in the industry from March to May, has incurred about PHP250-million loss for the local economy. (PR)

PCOO calls for collective involvement against COVID-19 in “Leading Forward TownHall Meetings”

By Vanessa Q. Rodriguez

Aimed at continuously engaging the citizens, and ensuring that the people receive vetted and accurate information, especially during this time of the pandemic, the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) has organized its 8th Leading Forward Townhall Meeting.

Assistant Secretary Ramon Cualoping III in opening the virtual meeting said that the activity is being held to connect sectors such OFWs

leaders, youth, local government units to the national government and engage them to be active partners and to be ‘thought leaders’.

June 27 - July 3, 2020 |

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“The aim of this townhall meeting is to continue to engage with you all the time. Through this engagement, it is our hope in the PCOO that we will all be thought leaders through this townhall meeting; that as thought leaders, we should be able to explain the programs and the policies of this government to be able to help more people,” Asec Cualoping said.

Cualoping added that PCOO have curated resources for Filipinos to be empowered by way of correct, vetted and credible information.

PCOO Secretary Martin Andanar underscored the relevance of the townhall meeting as “a means to gather our powers” to collectively work together to be able to help in the fight against COVID-19 by sharing accurate information to the public.

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“The powers to strive more, to listen more, to act together, to communicate and educate our public with accuracy, and transparency.

These are the powers we need in order to achieve our goals. To challenge our young leaders and information officers, to promote justice, and to take part in social issues with equal opportunities,” Secretary Andanar said.

Sec. Andanar continued that, “in brief, these are powers we need in order to achieve our goals. We can ask ourselves, do we need to muster these powers individually? Have we utilized these powers the past seven townhall meetings? You have the answers to these questions. But if you do not, then do not try to look for them. The answers will reveal themselves one at a time.

Without you seeking them. And by that time, you will be able to live with them well.”

The Secretary added that each individual present is a hero as he said “when we meet in a townhall like today, we affirm the individual and collective strength of one another. Even if we maybe residents of another place . the unifying factors lies in our objective and the defining relevance of township.

We are compelled to be bound by a cause greater than ourselves. And that simply is definition of a hero. One who offers oneself to a cause, greater than the self.�

Guests during the townhall meeting were Dr. Beverly Lorraine Ho of the Department of Health (DOH), Undersecretary Marjorie Jalosjos of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Atty.

Justin Batocabe of the Department of Social Welfare and Development, and Assistant Secretary Kris Ablan, of the PCOO. Mr. Karl Louie Fajardo moderated the event (PIA-IDPD/ VQR).

Admin, support service workers most affected by shutdown: DOLE

By Ferdinand Patinio

Over 30,000 workers from the administrative and support services sector are the most affected by the shutdown and retrenchment by more than 400 establishments in the first six months of 2020, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) reported on Monday.

Preliminary data from the DOLE regional offices revealed that a total of 30,374 workers (30 percent) were affected from 443 reporting establishments in the said sector, followed by the manufacturing sector (12 percent or 11,636).

The month of June was recorded to have the most number of displaced workers at 45,724 from 2,365 establishments (63 percent share),

followed by month February with 371 reporting establishments (10 percent share) covering 30,712 displaced workers nationwide.

The month of May recorded 7,437 affected workers (280 establishments); March, 6,780 workers (266 establishments); January, 5,221 (194 establishments); April, 3,979 (269 establishments).

The agency said a total of 99,853 June 27 - July 3, 2020 |

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workers were displaced all over the workers is 21 from two establishments in country from 3,745 establishments from Region 9 (Zamboanga Peninsula) due January to June 28, 2020. to retrenchment/reduction of workers.

It added that 90 percent of these establishments reduced workers (3,389) while the remaining 10 percent reported permanent closure (356).

Meanwhile, the DOLE said some 104,495 establishments covering 2,862,331 workers are implementing Flexible Work Arrangements (FWAs) and Temporary Closure (TC).

Of the number, the National Capital Region (NCR) recorded the The establishments that have highest number of affected workers at engaged in FWAs are at 24,114 with 46,660 from 1,248 establishments.

1,013,543 workers while those that recorded to TC are 82,191 establishments

The least number of displaced with 1,971,588 employees. (PNA)

P17-B subsidy eyed for public transport

By Azer Parrocha

The Duterte administration’s economic team has recommended the implementation of a PHP17 billion subsidy program for public transport amid the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic.

In a virtual presser on Tuesday, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque bared the fund will be used to assist critically impacted workers and businesses in the transportation industry.

“Iniisip din po ng economic team na magbigay ng subsidiya, hindi po malaking subsidiya, iyong enough lamang para naman makabawi iyong mga public transportation na hindi po nakakapagbiyahe ng 100 percent capacity (The economic team is

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| June 27 - July 3, 2020

considering giving a subsidy, not a very big subsidy, just enough for the public transport to recover for not being allowed to resume 100 percent of their capacity),” he said.

Roque, however, noted that this proposal will need the approval of Congress.

He did not clarify whether the amount would be part of the assistance under the proposed “Bayanihan to Recover as One” bill.

SUBSIDY FOR PUBLIC TRANSPORT. Photo shows passengers practicing physical distancing amid the coronavirus disease 2019 threat.

Malacañang on Tuesday (June 30) said the Duterte administration’s economic team has recommended the implementation of a PHP17 billion subsidy program for affected public transport workers and businesses.

(File photo)

“Iyong proposal para sa subsidy na umaabot mahigit kumulang PHP17 billion pero ito po ay proposal, kinakailangan apruban pa ng ating Kongreso (The proposal which will reach more or less PHP17 billion is just a proposal, and will need approval from Congress),” he said.

He acknowledged possible lapses in law enforcement but noted that an “entire nation” approach was necessary for curbing the pandemic.

Currently, Roque said the InterAgency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Disease (IATFEID) is revisiting restrictions on certain public transportation modes such as public utility jeepneys (PUJs).

The IATF-EID ordered the departments of Transportation, Science and Technology, and Health; the Metro Manila Development Authority; and the Bureau of Philippine Standards to look for the “safest and effective” manner to ensure safe motorcycle back-riding amid the outbreak.

He, however, noted that several parts of the country with low-risk of Covid-19, such as Baguio and Bohol, have already allowed the operation of PUJs.

Meanwhile, Roque urged motorcycle riders to comply with the “no back ride” policy to minimize the risk of catching or spreading the deadly disease.

Earlier, he said motorcycle backriding will soon be allowed despite the strict quarantine restrictions.

The government has imposed a “no back ride” policy amid the nationwide community quarantine due to health safety reasons.

Under IATF Resolution No. 50, the IATF has recommended the government to optimize the use of sufficient and safe public transportation to facilitate the opening of the economy. (PNA) June 27 - July 3, 2020 |

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PH has sufficient rice supply: Palace

By Azer Parrocha

There is no need to import additional rice because the Philippines has sufficient supply, Malacañang said on Monday.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque made this remark after the Philippine International Trading Corp.

(PITC), an attached agency of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), abandoned the plan of importing 300,000 metric tons (MT) of rice. “Sapat po ang ating supply ng bigas, kaya po hindi na tinuloy ang pag-aangkat (We have enough rice supply that’s why they did not continue its plan to import),” he said in a virtual presser.

Implementing Rules and Regulations of the Rice Tariffication Law, PITC may proceed with the importation if there is an official declaration of rice shortage in the country.

Under Republic Act 11203 or the Rice Tariffication Law, the government is only allowed to import rice “in the event of a rice supply shortage” and upon the issuance of an official directive from the President. The government, however, has not declared any shortage in rice

Earlier, the Inter-Agency for the supply.

Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases authorized the PITC to import Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez 300,000 metric tons (MT) of rice for the earlier said the initial decision for lean months of July and August. the government-to-government importation plan was a result of the

The government has allocated a potential threat to maintaining a good PHP7.45-billion fund for the PITC’s 300-MT buffer supply of rice for the country. rice importation through a governmentto-government transaction to boost the He said that earlier computations country’s staple stocks during the lean from Department of Agriculture (DA) months. showed a threat to the targeted level of buffer stock following Vietnam’s

However, the plan was withdrawn imposed ban on rice exportation in April. after farmer groups questioned the legality of the purchase of 300,000 MT Vietnam has initially banned of imported rice, saying there is no shipping out rice during the coronavirus declaration of a rice shortage. disease 2019 (Covid-19) outbreak to secure the staple for its own market, but

They cited that based on the it has eventually been lifted. (PNA)

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| June 27 - July 3, 2020

SoKor extends $5-M humanitarian aid to help PH fight Covid-19

By Ben Cal

South Korea, although its hands are full in containing the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), has provided over USD5 million (PHP250 million) worth of humanitarian assistance to the Philippines to help contain the deadly disease.

In a recent interview, Korean Ambassador Han Dong-Man said the humanitarian aid is in the form of Covid-19 testing kits, high-quality masks, tons of rice, 1,000 face shields, diagnostic kits, personal protective equipment (PPE), and protective face masks for Filipino veterans of the Korean War and their families, among others.

Han said that South Korea will never forget the benevolence of the Philippines in helping his country defend freedom and democracy during the Korean War.

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| June 27 - July 3, 2020

Ambassador Han Dong-man

As a gesture of magnanimity, he said South Korea has been extending assistance to the Philippines the past seven decades during disasters, manmade or otherwise.

“The Philippines is Korea’s longstanding ally. Over the past 70 years since the outbreak of the Korean War in 1950, Koreans have never forgotten the 7,420 Filipino soldiers who were dispatched as the Philippine Expeditionary Forces to Korea as part of the UN Forces to fight for the freedom of Korea during the Korean War,� Han said.

From left: Social Welfare Secretary Bautista, Agriculture Secretary William Dar, Ambassador Han Dong-man, and NFA Administrator Judy Dansal. (Contributed photo)

Among the humanitarian aid is the USD1.5 million from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) development program to support the Philippine government to combat Covid-19. This includes testing kits worth USD500,000 that can yield 35,000 tests, he said.

a solid foundation in line with the Philippine government’s “Economic Recovery Plan” which will accelerate the return to the strong growth momentum.

Through the Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF) implemented by Korea EXIM Bank, Han said the Korean government will also provide the Philippines with immediate budget support up to USD50 million to help the country detect and respond to public health challenges caused by the pandemic.

At the same time, KOICA also shaped its post-Covid19 program, which focuses on building the resilience of the vulnerable groups in urban and rural areas, strengthening the health system, and stimulating digital partnerships to support the new normal.

The EDCF Covid-19 program loan will support the establishment

The mid- and long-term programs of national policy in connection with highlight the importance of building the national emergency arising from June 27 - July 3, 2020 |

55

Covid-19; to streamline procurement rules and enable procuring entities to efficiently undertake procurement during a state of public health emergency; to prepare policy guidelines on the provision of funds by local government units for programs, projects, and activities to address Covid-19; and to adopt a national contingency plan for Covid-19 to scale-up country readiness and response operation.

people to express deep appreciation to the Filipino people,” Han said.

At the same time, Han said a total of USD5 million from the KoreaAssociation of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) Cooperation Fund, will be provided to the 10 Asean countries in the form of diagnostic kits (17,664 Covid-19 tests, extraction equipment), and 300 PPE sets for each country.

Asean members are Brunei,

“The current global pandemic Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Covid-19 cannot prevent such efforts Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, of the Korean government and its Thailand, and Vietnam. (PNA)

PH winning fight vs.

Covid-19: Palace

By Azer Parrocha

The Philippines is winning the fight against coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), Malacañang said Monday, after the country defied the number of cases projected by a University of the Philippines (UP) study.

“In terms of positivity rate, in terms of case-doubling rate, in case of mortality rate, we are winning. As, in fact, we defied what was predicted by the UP study,” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said in a virtual presser.

As of Monday (June 29), the country has 36,438 confirmed Covid-19 cases, 9,956 of whom have recovered and 1,255 have died, according to the Department of Health.

Roque also cited an initial UP

Early this month, the University of study that the country’s coronavirus the Philippines (UP) released a study cases would have reached 3.6 million predicting that the country’s Covid-19 by June if no interventions were done. cases would reach 40,000 by the end of June.

“Ang sabi po ng UP, kung wala

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po tayong lockdown na ginawa eh ngayon po meron na tayo sanang 3.6 million cases ng Covid, 3.6 million!

Saan po nagkulang ang Presidente?

Ano pa po ang dapat ginawa nya?

Naiwasan po ang 3.6 million cases ng Covid (According to UP, if we have not imposed lockdown, we have now 3.6 million cases of Covid. Where did the President fall short? What more does he have to do? We have prevented 3.6 million Covid-19 cases),” Roque said.

Roque disputed the report of the World Health Organization (WHO) saying the country has the fastestgrowing number of new Covid-19 cases among 22 countries in Western Pacific Region.

He said the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte is doing its best to manage the Covid-19 situation in the country.

“We beg to disagree. Bakit tayo ikukumpara sa Singapore eh ang Singapore 5 milyon lang po iyan. Isang siyudad lang po iyan, hindi pa siyudad ng Quezon City o Manila (Why should be compared to Singapore when they only have a 5 million population. That’s as good as one city, that’s not even the size of Quezon City or Manila),” he said.

He echoed the Department of Health (DOH) saying it was not right WHO to compare the Philippines to countries with a smaller population such as Singapore.

“Hindi po tayo perpekto, siguro po talaga (We’re not perfect, perhaps) we could have done better. Pero narito na po tayo (But we’re here now) and one thing I can assure you, the President did the very best that he can and we are in Roque claimed that the Philippines control of the situation,” he said. only ranked sixth in the Western Pacific region if the cases were divided on a Don’t compare per million population basis with India June 27 - July 3, 2020 |

57

topping the list followed by Pakistan, particularly living conditions, as well Bangladesh, Indonesia and Singapore. as health system capacity, even prior to Covid, is different from Singapore.

India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Please take that into account when and Indonesia are not part of the we do our analysis. Let us not cherry Western Pacific region based on the pick the countries we want to compare demographical classification of the ourselves to,” DOH said in a statement.

WHO. New classifications

Pakistan is classified under the Meanwhile, Roque said the Eastern Mediterranean region while the three other countries are under the President is expected to announce the South-East Asia region, according to new quarantine classifications in the country on Tuesday (June 30), Roque.

WHO.

Roque’s presentation ranked Covid-19 cases in the entire Asia instead of WHO’s category, Western Pacific Region.

He said the President would address the public to announce the new quarantine rules that will be implemented nationwide beginning July 1.

However, he insisted that India, “If I’m not mistaken, it will be Pakistan and Bangladesh are still Asian tomorrow (Tuesday),” he said. countries.

The enhanced community

He admitted that the national quarantine (ECQ), the highest level of government could have done better in community quarantine, was imposed addressing Covid-19, but stressed that only in Cebu City until June 30. it took the right steps to slow down the

A modified ECQ was implemented spread of the deadly virus. in Talisay City but later downgraded to

“To reiterate, nothing to be general community quarantine (GCQ). ashamed of in terms of density, we are A GCQ was imposed in Metro Manila; not one in Western Pacific, pero sa akin the provinces of Cagayan, Isabela, Nueva Vizcaya, Quirino, Aurora, hindi naman ito contest (but for me, it’s Bataan, Bulacan, Tarlac, Cavite, not a contest),” he said.

Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon, Occidental Mindoro, Bohol, Cebu,

Earlier, the DOH said the Philippines Negros Oriental, Siquijor; and the cities should not be compared to other of Santiago, Mandaue, Lapu-Lapu, countries with different socioeconomic Zamboanga, and Davao. context like population, living conditions and health system capacity.

The rest of the country remained

“Our socioeconomic context, under modified GCQ. (PNA)

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| June 27 - July 3, 2020

Galvez cites improvement in PH coronavirus response

By Lade Jean Kabagani

National Task Force (NTF) on Covid-19 chief implementer and Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. (Screengrab from PCOO)

There is a growing improvement in the coronavirus pandemic situation in the country after three months of implementation of community quarantine, Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., the chief implementer of the National Action Plan (NAP) on Covid-19, said Monday.

Galvez,

also

the

presidential “Medyo natuto na po tayo after peace adviser, said the country has that three-month experience (so) yun po yung nakiita namin, napakaganda already learned its lesson on how to po ng mga indicators (We somehow react to the health crisis. learned after that three-month June 27 - July 3, 2020 |

59

experience, we believe there were comes to the Covid-19 response, he good indicators),” Galvez said in a added. virtual interview, noting that the death rate almost reduced into a single digit. Covid-19 spike in Cebu

“I believe ang ating recoveries is more or less 40 to 50 percent hindi lang natin na-declare because of...ang dinideclare lang natin sa recovery ay yun lang pong na-admit (I believe we have more or less 40 to 50-percent recovery cases which are not declared because of -- we are just declaring only those who have been admitted in hospitals),” he added.

Meanwhile, Galvez said there is a continuous spike on the severe and critical cases in Cebu City.

“In fact, even the rate of deaths is also spiking, but we expect that this surge of picking up new cases (is) two to three weeks,” he added, citing the NCR’s experience on March 10 and April 13, wherein surge of Covid-19 confirmed cases occurred.

Galvez, however, noted that there are also underreported cases of He said early detection and Covid-19 recoveries, which indicates a testing is essential to halt the spike of higher chance of improvement on the the Covid-19 cases. health crisis response.

Galvez said the government

The country, he added, is also sees the need to conduct stringent increasing its testing capacity. restrictions in Cebu City.

Earlier, Galvez said the government sought a second phase of operation concepts and plans to boost its battle against the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Mas prepared po tayo kasi meron tayong national action plan, sa ngayon, nire-review po natin yan kasi nag-change na po ang ating situation (We are prepared because we have the national action plan, so far, we are reviewing this since our Covid-19 situation has changed),” he said.

“We don’t want to preempt the pronouncement of the President, but we see there is still a need for stringent restrictions since we found out that the ECQ (enhanced community quarantine) was not properly implemented, that’s why Gen. (Eduardo) Ano was prompted to deploy more SAF personnel there in Cebu City,” Galvez said. “So far, more than 19 barangays are being monitored under strict lockdowns.”

He added that only those with

There is also an ongoing essential travels and those who are “balancing act” between the national authorized are allowed to go outside and the local governments when it of their homes. (PNA)

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Strict protocol, compliance crucial in curbing Covid-19 While a vaccine against coronavirus disease (Covid-19) has yet to be developed, Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go stressed the importance of strict enforcement of measures and proper compliance as “crucial” in curbing the deadly disease.

Go, chairman of the Senate Health and Demography Committee, made this remark after data from World Health Organization (WHO) showed that the Philippines has the fastestgrowing number of new Covid-19 cases among over 22 countries in Western Pacific Region.

facilities and capabilities — ito po ang mga tanging makakapagsabi kung kailan natin malalampasan at tuluyang matapos ang krisis na dulot ng Covid-19 (If we follow rules and help each other to avoid the spread of the virus, if we enhance our health facilities and capabilities—this is the only way we can determine if we will be able to

“Wala pang bakuna at gamot overcome and end the crisis brought sa sakit na ito (There is still no vaccine by Covid-19),” he said. for this disease). That is why strict enforcement of existing measures and The senator from Davao City proper compliance of everyone are urged the government to beef up the very crucial,” he said in a statement.

Department of Health’s and the Interagency Task Force for the Management

He said the only way to slow down of Emerging Infectious Diseases’ (IATFthe rate of Covid-19 infections in the EID) Project T3 (Test, Trace, Treat) country is to have people cooperate which aims to expand national testing as the government works on improving capacity to 50,000 tests per day by the its capacity to provide critical care to end of the month. patients.

“Habang tumataas ang kaso

“Kung susunod po tayo sa ng Covid-19, mas tumataas rin dapat mga patakaran at patuloy tayong ang quarantine, contact tracing, at magtutulungan para maiwasan necessary treatment capabilities natin. ang pagkalat ng sakit, kung mas (I will continue to urge the government maisasaayos rin ang ating health to enhance its Test, Trace, and Treat June 27 - July 3, 2020 |

61

strategy (While Covid-19 cases continue to increase, there should also be an increase in quarantine, contact tracing, and necessary treatment capabilities),” he said.

where the Covid-10 originated, had 302.

Data from the WHO showed that the country recorded 8,143 coronavirus cases since June 16, the highest among 22 countries in the region. Singapore came in second with 2,351 new cases during the same period, while China,

The DOH also emphasized the implementation of minimum health standards such as wearing of masks and physical distancing, as the most effective preventive measure in the absence of a vaccine. (PNA)

The Department of Health (DOH), however, said the Philippines should not be compared to other countries

Meanwhile, he also pushed for the with different socioeconomic context passage of the ‘Bayanihan to Recover like population, living conditions, and as One’ bill dubbed as the ‘Bayanihan health system capacity.

II’, vowing to support necessary legislative measures that can address “Our socioeconomic context, the public’s most immediate needs. particularly living conditions, as well as health system capacity, even prior

“We need to immediately pass to Covid, is different from Singapore. the Bayanihan to Recover as One Please take that into account when bill. Hanapan dapat ng paraan na we do our analysis. Let us not cherry mapondohan ang mga programang pick the countries we want to compare kinakailangan upang maitigil na ang ourselves to,” DOH said in a statement. pagkalat ng sakit, mailigtas ang mga DOH explained that Singapore has a naghihirap na Pilipino, at makabangon population of only 5.9 million, with a muli ang ekonomiya ng bansa. (We total number of cases of 43,246 while will look for ways to fund the programs the Philippines has a population of 109 needed to stop the spread of the million with 34,803 total cases, as of disease, save poor Filipinos, and helping Sunday. the economy recover),” he said. He said the government will always prioritize “Per 1 million people, Singapore people’s health over anything else. has a higher case at 7,393 cases per 1 million population compared with

“Sa anumang mga hakbang Philippines at 318 cases per 1 million na gagawin ng gobyerno at pati population,” it added. ng mga ordinaryong mamamayan, palagi nating unahin ang buhay at The agency said it is currently kapakanan ng kapwa nating Pilipino addressing the rising critical care (Whatever steps the government and utilization through augmentation of its people take, we will also prioritize the equipment and workforce and ensuring life of our fellow Filipinos),” he said. it can manage possible surge of cases.

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EDITORIAL BOARD Executive Editor

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