Caraga InFocus – March 10-16, 2018

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[ Contents 10 - 16 March 2018

Volume II, No. 49

Agusan Norte farmers train in organic fertilizer product development ASEAN NEWS

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ASEAN Safe Schools Initiative boosts partnerships to ensure safety of schools, learners

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Cayetano to represent PRRD in ASEAN-Australia Summit

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REGIONAL NEWS

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ADB cited for support in improving quality of life in Mindanao Japan donates 27 new heavy equipment for Marawi rehab

Andanar to lead PCO Net launching in Agusan Sur POPCOM, church alarm on rising spousal violence in Caraga DSWD-Caraga targets 109,543 poor households for UCT validation

PROVINCIAL NEWS

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MINDANAO NEWS

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Surigao City Negosyo Center among PH’s top 50 performing NCs

NATIONAL NEWS

Classrooms of four public elementary schools in Tandag City get to be “screened” SurSur acquires new fleet of construction equipment Court-annexed mediators hiring still on in SurSur

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Labor group hopeful of PRRD promise to end ‘endo’

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Solon to CHED: Fast-track free college implementation

AgNor town implements educational assistance DTI-AgSur NCs provide mobile business name registration, servicing in business one-stop shop of 5 more LGUs DTI AgSur NCs report 59% increase in business name registrants during this year’s BOSS

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News Briefs The Municipal Peace and Order Council of Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte has warned the public of certain groups doing illegal activities and doing various forms of scams are proliferating in the different barangays of the municipality like collecting membership fees, identification cards fees, registration fees, stickers and other fees from the residents. They have been using legit organizations, associations, and even government programs and logos to make them appear authorized to perform government transactions.

The provincial government of Surigao del Sur recently bought a new fleet of construction equipment. Worth P138.975M, the large fleet is comprised of 25 units of various kinds to suit the needs of the construction capability of the province.

Some 4,500 individuals mostly IPs from the four barangays (Mahaba, Puting Bato, Bay-ang & Calamba) of Cabadbaran City availed of the free services from the different agencies (local & national) of the province of Agusan del Norte during today’s PPOC Immersion held in barangay Mahaba, Cabadbaran City.

The Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA) is again on the lookout for modern-day heroes through the launch of the Search for Outstanding Volunteers (SOV) 2018.

Cover Story

Agusan Norte farmers train in organic fertilizer product development

KITCHARAO, Agusan del Norte - Members of the Jaliobong Masipag Farmers Organization Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Cooperative (JAMAFO) from Jaliobong, Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte recently underwent a product development and enhancement training on organic fertilizer.

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Organic fertilizer production and selling has become one of the steady income generating projects of JAMAFO, an ARB cooperative whose members are mostly vegetable and rice producers. Other than being the primary users of the fertilizer made from bio raw materials found in their farms, the coop also market their fertilizer to other farmers within the locality and to the Kitcharao Municipal Agriculturist Office.

bolo; 5 pcs. rubber gloves, cotton with rubber; 2 pcs. rain boots, rubber black, size 6”; and 2 pcs. rain boots, rubber black, size 8”.

The initiative to assist this ARB cooperative came from the collective commitment of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), DTI, and the Provincial Agriculturist Office (PAO) who earlier analyzed and discussed the needed intervention for the group which in this case is closing a perceived

Department of Trade and Industry market gap.

(DTI) Agusan del Norte Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) The training resulted to the senior staff Jocelyn Ordonia said the Provincial Agrarian Reform Officetraining will help the coop to enhance Agusan del Norte (PARO-ADN) their product and align the same to helping them in the establishment the Philippine National Standard (PNS)- of their processing center thru DAR’s BAFPS 40:2008 among organic fertilizers village-level farm-focused enterprise which accordingly is a requirement if development (VLFED) program. they plan to expand their market.

DTI-Agusan del Norte CARP

Tapped as resource person was pledged to do the product Oscar S. Tuyor, Supervising Agriculturist development activity including the of the Provincial Agriculture Office packaging and labeling, while PAO(PAO) of Agusan del Norte.

ADN provided the technical know-how in processing fertilizer based on PNS DTI-ADN CARP provided the BAFPS 40:2008 requirement. following basic tools for fertilizer processing during the training that will Actions for the market expansion serve as starter kit: 2 pcs. round point of the enhanced product will be a joint shovel; 1 pc. garden rake; 4 pcs. 4L effort of DTI-ADN CARP and PAO-ADN. plastic pail with handle; 4 pcs. plastic (DTI-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del dipper; 2 pcs. bolo knife and jungle Norte) 10 - 16 March, 2018

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ASEAN Safe Schools Initiative boosts partnerships to ensure safety of schools, learners By: Susan De Leon

MAKATI CITY - The ASEAN Safe Schools Initiative (ASSI) Consortium, Asia Pacific Coalition on School Safety, and the ASEAN Secretariat, in cooperation with the Department of Education (DepEd), and other partners conducted the ASEAN Regional Training Workshop on Comprehensive Safe Schools Initiative.

The training workshop provided technical knowledge and information on innovative approaches, tools, processes, and resources relevant to different school safety components.

The event aimed at promoting strategic partnerships and strengthen collaboration among the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member states (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and 10 - 16 March, 2018

Vietnam) in advancing safe schools in the region, leaders, experts, and specialists on education and disaster risk reduction and management was held at One Pacific Place Makati from February 28 to March 1.

DepEd Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Service (DRRMS) Director Ronilda Co underscored the importance of the initiative especially in ensuring that children learn in a safe and motivating environment.

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“We must accept that this is our new normal, and that this is a reality that we have to deal with together.

This is what makes this project – a venue for knowledge sharing, problem solving, and engagement among ASEAN experts and practitioners – so relevant and timely,” Director Co said.

The DRRMS Director further emphasized that that there is more to a safe school than its physical structures: “Safety constitutes not only the absence of physical harm, threats, and hazards, but the presence of an enabling environment.”

Comprehensive School Safety (CSS) Framework; 2. CSS Pillar 1 in Southeast Asia: Policy and Practices Overview; 3. Ethical Responsibilities, Hazards and Risks; 4. CSS Pillar 1 Targets and Indicators Status Update; 5. CSS Pillar 1 in Southeast Asia: Building on Best Practices; 6. Vulnerabilities and Risks; 7. Existing School Facilities: Assessing Risks; 8. Non-structural Safety Threats and How to Reduce Them/ School Maintenance; 9. New Construction: A Community-Based Approach; 10.

Towards Safe School Construction: Applying the Community-Based Approach to Stages of Construction; and 11. Structural Safety Education.

“Ensuring the safety and security of our schools and learners is more One of the highlights of the than an engineering task; it is a shared event was the presentation of the responsibility,” she added.

Philippine delegation on good practices and lessons learned in

Topics discussed in the three-day DRRMS programming. (DepEd/EPC/ workshop were: 1. Overview of the SDL/PIA-NCR)

Cayetano to represent PRRD in ASEAN-Australia Summit

By: Joyce Ann L. Rocamora

MANILA - Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano will be representing President Rodrigo R. Duterte in the two-day Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)-Australia Special Summit in Sydney this week, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) announced Wednesday.

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The DFA said the Philippine government would reaffirm its commitment as an active partner in the war against terror and share its development agenda during the leaders’ dialogue, which is set to focus on political-security, business, and other regional concerns.

As Special Representative of the President, Cayetano will join Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and other ASEAN Heads of State in the second leader’s meeting between ASEAN and its oldest dialogue partner.

further dialogue and cooperation.

“The Special Summit is expected to strengthen regional security and prosperity through intensified leaderlevel discussion and a forward program of increased practical engagement on education, economic cooperation, countering terrorism and common security challenges,” Manalo said.

Among the outcomes of the summit is the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on Countering International Terrorism, which establishes a framework to strengthen practical cooperation and collaboration on counter-terrorism through a package of 10 technical assistance and capacity building programs.

“What we will be highlighting in Sydney is the role the Philippines plays and could play not just as a participant but as an active contributor to regional counter-terrorism efforts,” Cayetano said in a statement.

The agreement is in support of the Joint Declaration for Cooperation

“At the same time, we would to Combat International Terrorism that like to share our Build, Build, Build was agreed upon in 2016.

Program that is intended to hasten development across the country, A Business Summit will also be especially Mindanao,” he added. held on the sides of the Special Summit that will be attended by prominent

Cayetano will be joined by Trade Filipino business leaders such as and Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez Jaime Zobel de Ayala, Enrique Razon, and Chief Legal Counsel Salvador Lance Gokongwei, Ramon Ang, Joey Panelo and other officials from the Concepcion, Manuel Pangilinan and DFA and the Department of Trade and Teresita Sy-Coson.

Industry.

Ambassador to Canberra Minda

Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Cruz said Cayetano would also have the Enrique Manalo said the Special Summit opportunity to discuss developments would highlight ASEAN-Australia in the Philippines with members of the cooperation under the group’s three Filipino community who he would be pillars and would focus on regional meeting before returning to Manila on security, future prosperity, people and Sunday. (PNA) 10 - 16 March, 2018

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Photo Gallery BIR OPLAN KANDADO 13 March 2018

Ochoa Ave., Butuan City

Buenavista, Agusan del Norte

Regional News

Andanar to lead PCO Net launching in Agusan Sur By: Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY – With the aim to intensify the strong linkage with the designated information officers from various areas of the country, Secretary Martin Andanar of Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) will launch the PCO Network (PCONet) in Caraga Region and will engage in a dialogue with the IOs from the municipal down to the purok level in the province of Agusan del Sur next month.

According to regional director Abner Caga of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga, information officers from the 14 municipalities, 318 barangays and respective puroks in Agusan del Sur will converge sometime in April 2018 and will officially take their oath with Sec. Andanar and PIA Director General Harold Clavite.

its information officers, not only in the municipal level, but down to their barangay level, which is an asset of the provincial government that creates easy coordination and dissemination of timely, accurate and relevant information to the locals,” highlighted Caga.

Caga reiterated that this PCOO

“Agusan del Sur is the first province initiative is in line with President Rodrigo nationwide to have established a Roa Duterte’s desire to connect to unified and strong network among communities down to the grassroots.

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REGIONAL NEWS

“Through this PCO Net, it provides a platform to its LGU counterparts, to ensure a lucid and proficient flow of information. Its member government communicators are also expected to curb propagation of fake news and unverified information,” he underlined.

the Liga ng mga Barangay members sought the importance of transparency and timely and accurate information dissemination to the grassroots level.

It was also learned that said resolution was upon motion by Benecio Manliguez, Liga member, and unanimously seconded by all members present. Signed then by Provincial Liga ng mga Barangay Secretary Edgar Abiao, and approved and attested by Liga president Glenn Plaza.

Provincial Public Information Officer (PPIO) Armando Gomez recalled that on February 6, 2018, the Provincial Liga ng mga Barangay – Agusan Chapter approved Resolution No. 4 series 2018 – “Resolution Requiring all Barangays of Agusan del Sur to “We are fortunate that our Create Barangay Information Officer in provincial governor Adolph Plaza their Respective Jurisdictions.” is very supportive in our efforts in intensifying our information officers

“It is imperative that barangay from the municipal, including those constituents are aware and abreast in the government agencies, down with the projects, activities and to the barangay level. We will see to transactions implemented by the it that our our IOs and the community province or by the initiatives of their they handle are informed and barangay. The creation of Barangay empowered,” stressed Gomez.

Information Officer in all barangay is essential for the effective and efficient Gomez also expressed his optimism dissemination and disclosure of all that other provinces in the region public transactions and other related will also join in this advocacy and will information in the barangay level,” replicate such move in strengthening relayed Gomez as he elaborated how the IOs. (PIA-Agusan del Sur)

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REGIONAL NEWS

POPCOM, church alarm on rising spousal violence in Caraga

BUTUAN CITY - Preliminary Results of the 2017 National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) revealed that Caraga has the highest percentage (15%) of ever-married women age 15-49 who ever experienced sexual violence committed by their husband/partner among other regions.

On the 2013 NDHS, Caraga Region for more vigorous and aggressive was previously placed at number 3 with interventions to end all violence against 7.6 percent. women. Perez further stressed that gains in maternal health can be stalled

In a short meeting with Fr. James if women continue to be vulnerable to Michael M. Abellanosa, Family and Life all types of violence. Regional Director Apostolate of Butuan Arch Diocese, Alexander A. Makinano of POPCOM Commission on Population (POPCOM) Caraga reiterated that violence against Executive Director, Dr. Juan Antonio A. women and children (VAWC) is one of Perez III pointed out that the incidence the barriers to women empowerment of spousal violence continues to call and development. Makinano further 10 - 16 March, 2018

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REGIONAL NEWS stressed that there are various types of violence that are committed against women and children, most of which are perpetrated by men.

following the Gender Responsive Population Strategies (GR PopS) as approved by the Philippine Commission on Women.

“It is critical for men to have an understanding of the nature of violence and how it affects the well-being not only of women and children but the entire family. Men play a key role in preventing and opposing violence.

Men should work together with women to build a renewed society which is gender-sensitive, in which both men and women can enjoy equality in all things.

Equality breeds respect and therefore significantly decrease the likelihood of violence in any relationship,” Makinano said.

GAD Planning and Budgeting is one of the country’s strategic interventions mainstreamed by national and local governments and it is mandatory mechanism to integrate and fund GAD-related programs, projects, and activities as stipulated in Republic Act 9710, Section 36.

POPCOM has initiatives that emphasize men’s responsibilities in family matters, namely: MR GAD (Men’s Responsibilities in Gender and Development), KATROPA (Kalalakihang Tumutugon sa Responsibilidad at

On his part, Fr. Abellanosa will Obligasyon sa Pamilya), and MOVE discuss the matter with Archbishop (Men Oppose to Violence against Antonio J. Ledesma, SJ, the Apostolic Women Everywhere).

Administrator of the Diocese of Butuan, and may release a pastoral letter.

These interventions further heighten the campaign on gender

POPCOM hopes that everyone equality; responsible parenthood; in the community shall actively violence in the family and violence support the various programs of the against women and children; healthy government. The Commission also living; relationship with one’s wife; believes that through concerted efforts ensuring the health of one’s pregnant of the various sectors in the society wife; HIV, AIDS and other Sexually and when there is equality, Filipinos Transmitted Infections. can build stronger, healthier families, strengthen communities, and create a In its continuing advocacy, safe environment for their children.

POPCOM Caraga recently conducted KATROPA Seminar among Uniformed

In line with the Women’s Month personnel of Butuan City Police Station Celebration, POPCOM Caraga and 3 (BCPS 3) together with selected the Regional Development Council- community police officers or barangay GAD Council will conduct Gender tanod of Lumbocan, Masao and and Development (GAD) Planning Ambago.

(POPCOM-Caraga/PIAand Budgeting Workshop this March Caraga)

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REGIONAL NEWS

DSWD-Caraga targets 109,543 poor households for UCT validation By: Abegail R. Alvarez

BUTUAN CITY - Around 105,517 poor households from Listahanan 2 Database will undergo validation of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-Caraga through the National Household Targeting Unit or Listahanan.

This is in connection with the implementation of Republic Act 10963 or otherwise known as the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN). It is the first package of the Comprehensive Tax Reform Agenda (CTRP) envisioned

by Duterte’s Administration, which seeks to correct a number of deficiencies in the tax system to make it simpler, fairer, and more efficient.

Unconditional program.

Cash

Transfer

(UCT)

The UCT is a social mitigating measures to protect the disadvantaged, poor, and vulnerable sector who will not benefit from the lower income taxes but will adversely affected by the rising prices. The government will provide monthly cash grant of Php200 in CY 2018 and Php300 in CY 2019-2020 for the

With this, the Congress mandated existing 4.4 million Pantawid Pamilyang the department to implement the Pilipino Program beneficiaries, 3 million 10 - 16 March, 2018

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REGIONAL NEWS existing Social Pension beneficiaries, for them to be informed of the purpose and 2.6 million poor households from of UCT validation.

Listahanan.

“We are asking the Local

To ensure that the households Government Units (LGUs) to support the that will benefit from the program validators and AAs who will be assigned belong to the poorest 10 million in the in their respective areas. These field country, the NHTS-PR shall provide the workers play a vital role in the validation results of the Listahanan 2 as UCT’s basis process and the updated list are also for determining 2.6 million potential important since they are the target beneficiaries. beneficiaries for the UCT program,’’ says Assistant Regional Director for

But the poor households from Administration and Listahanan Deputy Listahanan will undergo updating and Regional Program Manager Nerisa T. validation to ensure that those who will Murih. benefit the UCT program belong to the 1st to 7th income deciles.

Also, the NHTU composed of Regional Field Coordinator, Regional

In line with this, the department Associate Statistician, Regional hired 352 validators and 73 Information Technology Officer, and Administrative Aides who will take part Administrative Assistant will serve as in the region-wide UCT validation which the Area Coordinating Team who shall will start initially on March this year. The oversee the validation period in every additional workforce will be trained on province. (Social Marketing Unit/DSWD the basic procedure in accomplishing Field Office Caraga/PIA-Caraga) the Household Validation Form (HVF) and protocols in updating and validating UCT beneficiaries.

The hired field workers will locate the identified potential beneficiaries, verify potential beneficiary information in the database, assess their current socioeconomic status, and recommend a final list of beneficiaries for the UCT program.

Prior the deployment, the NHTU will conduct an orientation to LGUs. This will be attended by the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officer (MSWDO) and Association of Barangay Councils (ABC) President

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Provincial News

Surigao del Norte

Surigao City Negosyo Center among PH’s top 50 performing NCs

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte - Of the nine Negosyo Centers in Surigao del Norte, the Negosyo Center (NC) in Surigao City was among the country’s top 50 performing facilities, particularly in the number of clients served and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) assisted.

Report as of December 31, 2017 of the Negosyo Center Monitoring System (NCMS) of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) showed that Negosyo Center Surigao City ranked 48th, in terms of number of clients assisted with around 2,705 clients served.

was mainly attributed to the conduct of seminars and trainings, as well as business name and BMBE registration.

The Negosyo Center Surigao City caters to all business-related concerns of existing and potential entrepreneurs.

Most of the assistance given to MSMEs

One will be established in Siargao Island and the other one will be in the mainland of the province. (DTI-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

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This year, DTI Surigao del Norte aims to open two more Negosyo Centers in the province.

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

Surigao del Sur

Classrooms of four public elementary schools in Tandag City get to be “screened”

By: Greg Tataro, Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – Classrooms of four public elementary schools in Tandag City are going to get “screened” in order to protect learners from mosquito bites.

The request of Dr. Gregoria Su, Schools Division Superintendent of the Department of Education (DepEd) City Division was granted according to Rodrigo Gordo, Sanitary Inspector IV of the Provincial Health Office (PHO) here.

communication.

“It was noted during the ocular inspection that the spread of mosquitos is so massive thus the health of our school populace is at stake from mosquito borne diseases,” Su stressed in her

Gordo bared that Montesclaros immediately responded by endorsing the letter of Su to the Department of Health (DOH) in Caraga. (Radyo PilipinasTandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

The top DepEd offical pointed out that flooding might have been the cause of mosquitos in the area.

The recipient schools of the delivery

The DepEd chief sought the help of of the screen materials set on March 6 PHO chief Dr. Eric Montesclaros in a letter were public elementary schools located dated February 2, 2018. in Rosario, Awasian, Quintos, and Quezon.

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

SurSur acquires new fleet of construction equipment

By: Greg Tataro, Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – The provincial government of Surigao del Sur recently bought a new fleet of construction equipment. Worth P138.975M, the large fleet is comprised of 25 units of various kinds to suit the needs of the construction capability of the province.

It was learned that the outright deployment of all units had already begun the day after the blessing was done at Surigao del Sur Sports Center on March 2, 2018.

ones,” the governor disclosed. However, he added that if needed, these could likewise be used for construction of new roads.

Pimentel also said that alongside the new units, the provincial government would at the same time shoulder the supply of crude oil of up to 7,000 to 10,000 liters per municipality or city depending on the size of the concerned LGU.

Included among the newly purchased equipment were twelve (12) units of 10 wheeler dump trucks; three (3) units wheel loader; three (3) units motor grader; three (3) units single drum vibratory roller; one (1) unit bulldozer; one (1) unit truck aerial working platform; one Also, the governor warned drivers (1) unit six-wheeler boom truck; and one and operators of the new equipment (1) unit garbage compactor truck. to exercise extra care or else they would be made accountable in case of

Governor Vicente Pimentel Jr. negligence. bared that the new fleet of equipment would be split into two – some would be With the arrival of new fleet of assigned here in the First District and the equipment, Engr. Asbert Evallar reported others would be deployed for the Second that his office now has a total of 125 units.

District.

On the other hand, it was clarified that 13 of the old ones had been undergoing

“Repair and maintenance of farm- repair while 11 were already said to be to-market roads (FMRs), would be the unserviceable. (Radyo Pilipinas-Tandag/ main task of these newly purchased PIA-Surigao del Sur) 10 - 16 March, 2018

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

Court-annexed mediators hiring still on in SurSur By: Greg Tataro, Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – The Office of the Clerk of Court under the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 40 here is still accepting applicants for courtannexed mediators for Surigao del Sur.

As stated, applicants must possess a Bachelor’s Degree, at least 30 years of age, of good moral character, and willing to learn new skills and to render public service aside from being proficient in both oral and written communication in English and Filipino.

and other pertinent papers addressed to: Atty. Brenda Jay Angeles-Mendoza, Chief of Office for PMC, Philippine Mediation Center Office, 5th Floor, SCCA Multipurpose Building, Padre Faura Street, Ermita, City of Manila.

It can be recalled that an “Orientation Conference with Stakeholders on CourtAnnexed Mediation” led by Atty. Lilian Baribal-Co was held at Villa Maria Luisa (VML) Hotel in Tandag City on February 8, 2018. The event was well attended according to Oso.

Daryl Oso, RTC Branch 40-Office of the Clerk of Court information officer, announced that the deadline for the submission of application was set on or before March 8, 2018, adding that interview would follow at the Hall of Justice (HOJ) at around 10:00 a.m. on the same day. However, Oso stressed that “Court-Annexed Mediation is a orientation would first be conducted an voluntary process conducted under hour before that. the auspices of the court by referring the parties to the Philippine Mediation

In a separate but detailed Center (PMC) Unit for the settlement announcement issued through the of their dispute, assisted by a Mediator same court under Executive Judge accredited by the Supreme Court,” it Rufo Naragas, applicants were earlier was learned. (Radyo Pilipinas-Tandag/ advised to submit their application letter PIA-Surigao del Sur)

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Agusan del Norte

PROVINCIAL NEWS

AgNor town implements educational assistance

By: JV Lumonsod

NASIPIT, Agusan del Norte – The local government unit of Nasipit, Agusan del Norte will now be implementing Educational Assistance through Municipal Ordinance No. 11-2017, otherwise known as the “Municipal Assistance Fund Program (MEAFP).”

The said ordinance, authored by Sangguniang Bayan Member Virgilio F. Baja was approved by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan through Sanggunian Resolution No. 318-2017.

the municipality of Nasipit by providing appropriations for its sustainability. This ordinance was enacted to promote the right of all citizens to quality education at all levels.

The said ordinance aims to provide educational assistance to qualified poor students who enrolled in Grade VII up to Grade 10 (Junior High School) who are residents of the municipality.

In line with the powers of the local governments to enact ordinances under the Local Government Code of 1991, the said municipal ordinance was approved through the efforts of Board Member Aquino W. Gambe, Chairman of the

The said program is one of the basic Committee on Education and Culture. social services under the Educational (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Assistance Fund Program prioritized by Norte) 10 - 16 March, 2018

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

Agusan del Sur

DTI-AgSur NCs provide mobile business name registration, servicing in business one-stop shop of 5 more LGUs

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur – As more business one-stop shop (BOSS) for business permits and licensing were conducted in various local government units (LGUs) of this province, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) thru its Negosyo Centers (NC) also continued to be present to ensure that business name registration is facilitated.

Five of the province’s LGUs had scheduled their BOSS during the following dates: Bayugan City - January 3 to 26; Trento - January 15 to 20; Sta. Josefa January 15 to 20; La Paz - January 3 to 22; and Bunawan - January 15 to 19.

joined by the Bureau of Fire (BFP), and the city offices of health and the environment, among others.

Pingol shared that in November and December of 2017, the city assessors office did an “on-wheel” roving among

NC-Bayugan City staff Charlott Carl business establishments including sari-sari Pingol reported that as of January 18, stores in the barangays to encourage about 731 mayor permittees have already business owners to register or get permits registered. to legalize their businesses.

Jufie Ann Balbao, Business Permit & In LGU Trento, NC Staff Mark Bogani Licensing Officer (BPLO)-designate led the worked with the BFP and the Social BOSS at the Bayugan City Hall, which was Security System as well as the LGU’s

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PROVINCIAL NEWS licensing offices led by Licensing Officer national: P2,000; and 1 Sarah Magsalay. Bogani reported 312 permitees as of January 18.

• P15.00 for the documentary stamp.

The BN certificate is renewable every five

The BOSS in LGU Sta. Josefa, which years. was also served by Bogani with NC staff Gilbert Engayas had Engr. Carlo C. Outside the BOSS (during regular Quijada, Municipal Assessor and BPLO- days), business name registration and designate as lead in the activity which other business development services registered some 200 permittees by the 3rd can be obtained from any of the day. existing Negosyo Centers: NC-Trento (also serving Sta. Josefa and Veruela for

Louida Legaspi of NC-Talacogon the meantime), NC-Bunawan, NC San traveled to La Paz to join the BOSS at Francisco (also covering Rosario), NC its municipal lobby on January 19. Her -Provincial Hub (Patin-ay, Prosperidad), counterpart from the LGU was Arlene NC Talacogon (covering La Paz, Loreto Campos, the town’s BPLO-designate. and San Luis), NC-Esperanza, NC Bayugan City and NC-Sibagat. (DTI-Agusan del

The LGU was hoping reportedly Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur) to surpass 2017’s number of permittees by roving and visiting the barangays to encourage businesses to register.

Finally, NC-Bunawan staff France Tumulak Suaybaguio and Connie Derro took turns to be present during the LGUBuanwan’s 5-day BOSS at the municipal hall. Taking the LGU lead was Joan Medado, BPLO-designate who reported an initial list of 172 mayor permittees plus 77 tricycle drivers/operators who also registered.

Applicants who wish to apply for business name, are required to bring the following requirements:

• 1 government issued I.D (eg. drivers license etc);

• proposed business name;

• registration fee (depending on the territorial scope (barangay level: P200, municipal: P500, regional: P1,000, 10 - 16 March, 2018

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

DTI AgSur NCs report 59% increase in business name registrants during this year’s BOSS PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur – A 59 percent increase in business name (BN) registrants was recorded during the conduct of the business onestop-shop (BOSS) this 2018 compared to 2017.

This was reported by Trade and Industry Development Analyst, Investment Promotion and Business Name Registration Officer Chona Marie Grado of the DTI-Agusan del Sur Provincial Office during the January 25 Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster sa Pilipinas (KBP) Hour radio program.

The spike was partly because of the support of the local government units in doing roving campaigns to formalize businesses in their respective localities.

The Department of Trade and (DTI) through the Negosyo Centers (NCs) was able to participate in 11 out of 13 business on-stop shop (BOSS) activities in the province this month of January.

For this year (2018), the BOSS in the local government units ran from January 3 to 26. DTI was able to join the BOSSes in Bayugan City, Esperanza, Sibagat, Talcogon, La Paz, Prosperidad, San Francisco, Rosario, Bunawan, Trento and Sta. Josefa.

In the case of Esperanza,

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as reported earlier, the BOSS was conducted in the Negosyo Center itself, while for both San Francisco and Trento, business name registrants of the BOSS just got their certificates at the NCs which are just a few steps away from the actual BOSS venue.

Grado reported that DTI monitoring as of January 22 already showed mayor permittee numbers surpassing the whole month of January figures last year.

This year’s BOSS registrants of 4,452 mayor permittees already represent 68 percent of the total permittees of 2017 at 6,485 which are expected to renew in 2018.

The January 25 KBP hour was hosted by Alfredo Plaza, Kbp Agusan Surigao Vice Chairman; Alfredo Lobog, DXAK Station Manager; Ivy Claire and Jordan Pajo Udtojan, SM Participating Stations; Karen Lim, ASELCO; Shanxt Tutor with Technical head Mike Tutor of DTI AdS. (DTI-Agusan del Sur/PIAAgusan del Sur) 10 - 16 March, 2018

Photo Gallery CACAO Media Forum

Grand Palace, Butuan City 13 March 2018

DTI Consumer Summit Press Conference

Almont Inland Resort, Butuan City 14 March 2018

Mindanao News

ADB cited for support in improving quality of life in Mindanao By: Lilian Mellejor

He said ADB has supported several major initiatives for Mindanao, among them the ongoing socioeconomic and community development projects with an overall goal of improving the quality of life for Mindanaoans.

DAVAO CITY – Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez on Friday cited the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for its continued support for the government’s infrastructure projects and initiatives, particularly in the implementation of the Brunei DarussalamIndonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East Asean Growth Area (BIMPEAGA) agenda.

Dominguez said the ADB’s assistance to the Philippines at the strategic, operational, and administrative levels has helped the government implement the BIMPEAGA development project.

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Dominguez said the ADB has long been playing a key role in supporting projects, as well as other initiatives that aim to improve the quality of life in the South.

“The ADB has also been generously assisting us in funding important infrastructure projects that would spur economic development in this island,” Dominguez said in his speech at the press launch of the Philippines’ hosting of the 51st Annual Meeting of the ADB Board of Governors at the SMX Convention Center.

Dominguez mentioned the USD380-million loan from the ADB that would help improve about 280 km. of national roads and bridges in the Zamboanga Peninsula and Tawi-Tawi.

The loan agreement was signed in January.

10 - 16 March, 2018

MINDANAO NEWS

This project, he said, aims to expand economic opportunities in agribusiness, ecotourism, and logistics, improve access to markets, jobs, education, and health facilities.

Lanao del Norte, for completion in 2021; the expansion and improvement projects in Davao International Airport at PHP 40.57 billion; the Laguindingan Airport at PHP14.6-billion; and the 102km. Mindanao Railway Project Phase

In the pipeline to be funded by 1, Segment 1 (Tagum, Davao City and ADB is the USD70 million Davao Public Digos) worth PHP35.26 billion.

Transport Modernization Project, designed to improve public transport Dominguez said the projects infrastructure and services in Davao demonstrated the commitment of City. the Duterte administration to move Mindanao from the margins and make

Dominguez highlighted Mindanao it a center for agriculture and industry. as among the primary beneficiaries of a shared goal of inclusive growth that He said the administration wants the government and the ADB have to transform Mindanao into a premier long established a strong partnership investment site, and that it will be at to bring peace and development in the “front and center” of the “Build, Mindanao.

Build, Build” infrastructure program that the government is aggressively

During the press launch, implementing to further stimulate the Dominguez also presented the five economy and link isolated communities flagship projects to be rolled out by the to the mainstream of growth.

Duterte administration in Mindanao under its “Build Build Build” infrastructure On May 3-6, the Philippines is program at PHP100.69 billion. hosting the 51st ADB Annual Meeting with the theme, “Linking People and

Dominguez bared the five projects Economies for Inclusive Development”. which were already approved by the National Economic and Development “This is an apt theme. Although Authority (NEDA) Board chaired by the region leads the world in the President Rodrigo Duterte. pace of growth, we know that some communities and local economies

They are the PHP5.4-billion have been left out of the process Malitubog-Maridagao Irrigation of more efficient wealth-creation,” Project Phase 2 in North Cotabato Dominguez said. and Maguindanao, which is expected to service almost 10,000 hectares of He said the country is “suitably land in 56 conflict-affected areas; positioned” to host this year’s ADB the PHP4.86-billion Panguil Bay Bridge annual meet, seen to draw about 3,000 project that would connect Tangub influential people who would bring City in Misamis Occidental and Tubod, stories back to their countries that the 10 - 16 March, 2018

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MINDANAO NEWS Philippines is a good place to invest in.

Those expected to participate are the finance ministers and central bank governors of the ADB member-

countries, bankers, representatives of the private sector, civil society, academe, multilateral institutions and the media. (PNA)

Japan donates 27 new heavy equipment for Marawi rehab By: Ferdinand Patinio

MANILA - The Japanese government has donated 27 sets of brand new heavy equipment for the rehabilitation program of Marawi City, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) said.

Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea and DPWH Secretary and Vice Chairman of the Task Force Bangon Marawi Mark Villar formally received the equipment from Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Koji Haneda in Marawi City.

graders, and 12 dump trucks was held on Thursday.

The donated equipment is Japan’s strong commitment for the rebuilding of the greater Marawi area and demonstrate the robust bond between the two nations.

The handover ceremony of seven hydraulic excavators, three bulldozers, The turnover ceremony was also three wheel loaders, two motor attended by Department of Budegt

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10 - 16 March, 2018

MINDANAO NEWS and Management (DBM) Secretary Benjamin E. Diokno, Embassy of Japan Economic Affairs Ministers Makoto Iyori, DPWH Undersecretry Emil K. Sadain, Department of National Defense (DND) Undersecretary Cesar Yano, Lanao del Sur Vice Governor Mamintal Alonto Adiong Jr., Marawi City Mayor Majul U. Gandamra, DPWH Region 10 Director Virgilio Eduarte, DPWH Project Director Madsmo Hasim and DPWH Bureau of Equipment Director Noel Ilao.

Earlier, Japan had extended financial assistance to the country through the DPWH for the widening of 24.61 kilometers Plaridel By-Pass Road in Bulacan.

The loan amounting 9.399 billion Japanese yen (around PHP4.6 billion) for the Arterial Road ByPass Project, Phase III was signed last Feb. 28 by Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez and Japan International Cooperation Agency chief representative Susumu

At the same time, a total of 26 Ito. Mitsubishi utility vehicles were also handed over by Mitsubishi Motors The signing was witnessed by Villar, Philippines thru its President and Socioeconomic Planning Secretary CEO Mitsuhiro Oshikiri to the Task Ernesto Pernia, and Japan International Force Bangon Marawi thru Executive Cooperation Agency (JICA) Senior Secretary Medialdea and Assistant Representative Tetsuya Yamada.

Sectetary Felix Castro of the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Japan continuously supports Council (HUDCC). through funding and technology assistance the implementation

Aside from the construction of the President Rodrigo Duterte machineries, the Japanese government administration’s big ticket projects provided grant for the United Nations under the ‘Build Build Build’ program.

Habitat Program.

(PNA)

10 - 16 March, 2018

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Photo Gallery TWG Coordination Meeting for IP Summit

DILG-13 Regional Office, Butuan City 14 March 2018

Taguibo River Water Quality Management Area 1st Quarter Meeting Grand Palace Hotel, Butuan City 15 March 2018

National News

Labor group hopeful of PRRD promise to end ‘endo’

By: Ferdinand Patinio

MANILA - A labor group remains optimistic that President Rodrigo R. Duterte would do the best thing once he reads the proposed Executive Order (EO) drafted by labor organizations addressing short-term contractualization, Endo, and the “555” work scheme prevalent in the country.

Michael Mendoza, president of the Associated Labor Unions-Trade Union Congress of the Philippines-Nagkaisa (ALU-TUCP-Nagkaisa) believes that the President would fulfill his promise to end contractualization.

contractualization,” Michael Mendoza, president of ALU-TUCP-Nagkaisa, said in a statement Thursday.

“It is a marked promise critical to ensuring inclusive growth under his administration. Sadly, the President

“We believe the President will obviously has been misled or never renege on his promise to end misinformed about the demands of 10 - 16 March, 2018

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NATIONAL NEWS workers,” he added.

the DOLE Secretary, the authority upon consultation with the National Tripartite

The proposed EO from the Industrial Peace Council, to exempt Nagkaisa Labor Coalition, which is jobs, activities and functions from the chaired by ALU-TUCP, recognizes that prohibition on contractualization. there will be exemptions to allow some form of contractualization.

“We too, Mr. President recognize the need to balance the interest of

However, it restores the norm of labor and capital. The epidemic scale direct hiring rather than the current of contractuals laboring in precarious practice of hiring workers who do jobs without security of tenure calls for work directly related to the mission balance Mr. President. We urge you to of the principal corporation through do the right thing,” Mendoza said. manpower agencies or labor-only contractors. This circumvents the “We renew our call to the President prohibition on the “cabo” system. to fulfill his promise to the workers to end the hopelessness and insecurity of

The draft EO also said that through millions,” he added. (PNA)

Solon to CHED: Fast-track free college implementation

By: Filane Mikee Cervantes

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10 - 16 March, 2018

NATIONAL NEWS MANILA - A party-list lawmaker on Thursday urged the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to fast-track the implementation of the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act.

1-Ang Edukasyon Rep. Salvador Belaro Jr. said CHED, along with the Unified Student Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education (UniFAST) board, only has two to five months to execute the law’s implementing rules and regulations (IRR) including the needed mechanisms and procedures.

students will be affected if they bungle this,” he said, alluding to previous reports that CHED has failed to release the living allowances of some 9,500 K-12 Transition Scholars.

Belaro also noted that while the IRR of the free college education is about to be published soon, UniFAST

Belaro noted that most state failed to comply with the October universities and colleges (SUCs) still 2017 deadline for its publishing. have June as the start of this academic year, while some SUCs are shifting to He stressed the need for August as school opening. accountability for UniFAST’s failure to meet the deadline.

“It is now incumbent upon the CHED and UniFAST to make up for “ It is now March 2018, six months valuable lost time and do a full court after the deadline. Now I understand press,” he said. the CHED and UniFAST board have had rough months while Dr. Patricia

“It might make things easier to Licuanan was CHED Chairperson, but make all the SUCs start their academic the law did set a deadline and UniFAST year in August. CHED chairs the failed to meet that deadline,” he said. governing boards of all SUCs and “People in the UniFAST Secretariat must through that position, they can be held accountable and liable,” he convince the SUCs to shift to August,” added. (PNA) he added.

He urged CHED to create an online portal allowing the public to monitor the progress of the law’s implementation in real-time down to the regional officel level of the agency.

“CHED and UniFAST should have learned by now from the mistakes in how the K to 12 Transition Program was done. They had better get it all right this time around because 900,000 SUC 10 - 16 March, 2018

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Photo Gallery 1st Quarter Joint Meeting of RCWC & RIAC-FF Caraga Watergate Hotel, Butuan City 15 March 2018

RIACAT-VAWC Advocates Summit: Tribute to Women Robinsons Place Atrium, Butuan City 16 March 2018

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