Caraga InFocus – March 17-23, 2018

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[ Contents 17 - 23 March 2018

Volume II, No. 50

AgSur cacao farmers get exposed to new ways in growing cacao trees ASEAN NEWS

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ASEAN, Japan put a spotlight on cyber wellness for the youth in upcoming media and information literacy forum ASEAN, Australia ink pact on counter-terror cooperation

REGIONAL NEWS

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Marawi agri sector continue to receive support from govt, NGOs House panel seeks budget hike for Mindanao

539 newly-promoted Caraga cops take oath POPCOM Caraga trains ex-drug dependents as responsible men Caraga tops POPDEV national competition

PROVINCIAL NEWS

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MINDANAO NEWS

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SurSur records lower dengue cases

SurSur guv hands over 36 units of farm tillers Army 401st brigade commander calls on NPA to give up arms Skills training development center to be established in Buenavista Magkiankang flower growers undergo training on quality production and marketing Negosyo Center-Agusan del Sur partners with local senior high for students’ business immersion Dinagat Islands joins Int’l Day of Forest celebration Surigao del Norte solon to initialize giant facility on waste management

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Persons with work-related disabilities get free rehab SSS offers again loan restructuring with penalty condonation

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News Briefs Cpt Al Anthony B Pueblas said that the objectives of “Project kaPALAYapaan” is to address the perennial issue of the farmers which is the “High Cost, Low Yield”, help and assist the farmers on how to increase their harvest, help them to have less vulnerable crop failure, farmers to receive NC 2 from TESDA and to have a secured supply of food.

For the month of February, the Philippine Red Cross Agusan del Norte-Butuan City Chapter has distributed food items to the 23 families or 71 individuals affected by armed conflict in barangay Anticala, Butuan City.

As per report from DPWH Caraga, the following Regional Evacuation Centers have started their construction in 2017 & are expected to be completed by 2019: 1) Butuan City; 2) Tandag City; 3) Esperanza, Agusan del Sur; 4) Buenavista, Agusan del Norte; 5) Bislig City; 6) Surigao City; 7) Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur; & 8 ) La Paz, Agusan del Sur. The National Food Authority (NFA) Surigao del Norte reminds all grains business establishments in the province to renew their NFA License in or before March 31, 2018. (NFA-SDN)

Cover Story

AgSur cacao farmers get in growing cacao trees

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur - Training for cacao growers on the new technologies and other techniques in cacao production has extended to Sibagat town, the 4th training area in the province with the biggest number of cacao trees.

Just recently in Brgy. Ilihan, Sibagat, some 35 growers were trained on how to manage cacao trees and acquire higher yields and better income.

para sa Magsasaka (OPM) introduced the proper way of planting cacao such as the 50x50cm standard size for holing, 3x3m planting distance, alleyway on their fields, the common pests and

The trainers, Abner Sumagang, diseases and the proper harvesting to Eduard Aldover and Jerry Sala of OFW ensure quality fruits.

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t exposed to new ways

The participants were also oriented on the type of tools and equipment to be used to care cacao trees. They are encouraged to give importance of the cacao trees which may not be given proper attention to produce higher yields.

Agusan del Sur, one of the provinces in Caraga region suitable for cacao, is on-going in its campaign to plant and expand cacao production.

The provincial government of

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Agusan del Sur also included cacao commodity in its Upland Sustainable Agri-Forestry Development (USAD) Program.

It has been noted that market opportunities of cacao are growing aside from being a material for chocolate, restaurants are now offering chocolate drinks, while some are getting conscious towards wellness of which cacao has inherent health benefits. (DTI-Agusan del Sur/PIAAgusan del Sur)

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ASEAN, Japan put a spotlight on cyber wellness for the youth in upcoming media and information literacy forum

By: Caleb Galaraga

QUEZON CITY, PHILIPPINES - The Philippine Information Agency, the official information arm of the Republic of the Philippines, and the Infocomm-Media Development Authority of Singapore, with the support of the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF), will hold a twoday forum on media and information literacy on 20-21 March at the New World Manila Bay Hotel in Manila.

The ASEAN-Japan Forum on on cyberbullying, cyber identity and Media and Literacy: Cyber Wellness online relationships, responsible use for the Youth will feature discussions of online media, and healthy digital 17 - 23 March, 2018

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habits. Speakers from Facebook and UNESCO will also share insights on the changing media consumption habits of the youth and initiatives and best practices in promoting media and information literacy.

Representatives from the information and media, academe, and youth sectors of the ASEAN Member Fund (JAIF) was officially established in States and Japan will participate in the March 2006, based on a pledge made by then Japanese Prime Minister H.E. Forum.

Junichiro Koizumi at the 9th ASEAN It will also involve a workshop Japan Summit held in December 2005 session where participants will explore in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. possible strategies for promoting cyber JAIF aims at supporting integration wellness among the youth of ASEAN. Ensuring that the youth are safe online efforts to create the ASEAN Community and are aware of the opportunities by facilitating the implementation of the and pitfalls that the digital landscape ASEAN 2025: Forging Ahead Together, provides ought to be a policy priority, which consists of the blueprints for the especially for a region where there ASEAN Political Security Community are 41% more mobile phones than (APSC), ASEAN Economic Community inhabitants, according to a report (AEC), and ASEAN Socio-Cultural by global media agency We Are Community (ASCC), as well as the Social and social media software Initiative for ASEAN Integration (IAI) firm HootSuite. On average, digitally Work Plan III and the Master Plan on connected ASEAN citizens spend six ASEAN Connectivity (MPAC) 2025.

JAIF also aims at promoting greater hours a day online. cooperation between ASEAN and

This Forum is the first component Japan. of the ASEAN-Japan Media and Since its establishment, additional Information Literacy for the Youth Project. It will be followed later on by the funding support has been pledged to development of multimedia materials JAIF. As of October 2017, contributions and a national-level campaign in all the totalled more than 650 million USD. ten ASEAN Member States to promote JAIF has contributed to strengthening ASEAN-Japan relations by undertaking cyber wellness among the youth. various projects in the areas of management, counterAbout the Japan-ASEAN Integration disaster terrorism, economic integration, youth Fund exchanges, Japanese language

The Japan-ASEAN Integration training, among others. (CG)

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ASEAN, Australia ink pact on counter-terror cooperation By: Joyce Ann L. Rocamora

Leading the Philippine government delegation was Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano, who represents President Rodrigo R. Duterte for the two-day leaders’ dialogue in Sydney.

The MOU is aimed at strengthening the cooperation between the two parties in combating terrorism, counterterrorism financing, and in the fight against violent extremism.

In a joint statement, the leaders stressed that the crafting of the MOU demonstrates their “joint resolve to stand together” against those who seek to divide communities.

The document intensifies Australia’s annual engagement with the bloc and enshrines practical measures to deepen dialogue across governments and security and law enforcement institutions.

The MOU is supported by programs on 17 - 23 March, 2018

MANILA – The Association of Southeast Asian (ASEAN) and Australia on Saturday sealed a historic agreement seeking to bolster regional security, with the joint signing of the memorandum of understanding (MOU) on a Cooperation to Counter International Terrorism on the sidelines of the ASEAN-Australia Special Summit. technical and regulatory assistance to develop best practices in aid of counter-terrorism legislation, and regional dialogues and workshops on topics, such as electronic evidence, financial intelligence, and countering online radicalization.

“ASEAN nations have a strong record of working together to confront violent extremism and defeat terrorist organizations,” the joint statement read.

“In recent years the threat posed by returning foreign fighters and ISILlinked extremists has grown. It makes today’s cooperation all the more important,” it added.

The MOU signing adds to the numerous peace and security cooperation between the two parties, which ranges from cyber and maritime cooperation, in their fight against people trafficking. (PNA)

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Photo Gallery RPOC-TWG Coordination Meeting Agusan del Norte Provincial Governor’s Office, Butuan City 20 March 2018

1st Quarter Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) Full Council Meeting Grand Palace Hotel, Butuan City 20 March 2018

Regional News

539 newly-promoted Caraga cops take oath

BUTUAN CITY - Police Regional Office (PRO-13) Regional Director Chief Superintendent Noli Romana spearheaded the oath-taking ceremony and donning of ranks of 539 Philippine National Police (PNP)held at the PRO13 Grandstand Camp Rafael Rodriguez, here on Monday.

Of the 539 promoted personnel, 58 were Police Commissioned Officers (PCOs) and 481 were Police NonCommissioned Officers (PNCOs) assigned in different police units of Caraga.

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PCSupt. Romana congratulated them and emphasized that their promotion does not only imply more authority; it means, for greater responsibility that needs more responsive career development to adequately

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REGIONAL NEWS meet the demands of higher positions RD Romana said. appropriate to their new ranks.

During the acceptance speeches,

The promotion was a result of the PSupt. Rommel Villamor and SPO4 merit system to give recognition to the Godfrey Reyna thanked the Promotion PNP uniformed personnel and uplift the Board and the whole PNP organization morale of the police force. for the promotion given to them.

“Our promotion comes from God and we are answerable to Him for the services we give to the public.

I am looking forward also that you will become good role models of competence, discipline, excellence and professionalism in the police force,�

Six out of 21 PNP Special Action Force (SAF) personnel who rendered service during the Marawi Siege received a spot promotion, 23 Special promotes and 63 National Support Unit personnel were promoted as well. (PNPCaraga/PIA-Caraga)

POPCOM Caraga trains ex-drug dependents as responsible men

BUTUAN CITY - Several Recovering Drug Dependents (RDD) in selected areas of the region successfully completed the ladderized seminar on Kalalakihang Tumutugon sa Responsibilidad at Obligasyon para sa Pamilya (KATROPA) of the Commission on Population (POPCOM) Caraga, held recently here.

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REGIONAL NEWS

The final phase of KATROPA Session which focused on Responsible Parenthood-Family Planning (RP-FP) was attended not only by the ex-drug dependents but also by their respective partners.

Ruth C. Cuizon, technical staff of the Drug Treatment and Rehabilitation Center advised the ex-drug dependents to instill in their hearts and minds the knowledge gained during the whole day activity as it will enhance the marital relationship of couples especially in planning the timing and spacing of children.

During the said seminar, the facilitators emphasized the importance of knowing the fertility of a woman, and one of the many benefits of family planning such as, the couple can save and invest more for the children’s and the family’s other welfare needs.

Modern Natural Family Planning and

Artificial methods were also discussed.

According to women’s health advocates, men play a big part in deciding when their pregnant partner get prenatal and postnatal care, where she will deliver, when and how they will space births, among other decisions, thus their involvement in reproductive health and family planning, can make pregnancy and child birth a joyous moment for women as well as their male partners, instead of being in a situations where women have to risks their lives from the risk of pregnancy and child birth.

It can be recalled, said group attended the 1st session on KATROPA late last year, which focused on attaining their health and safety, and becoming a productive member of the society. (POPCOM Caraga/PIACaraga)

Caraga tops POPDEV national competition

BUTUAN CITY - Caraga was declared as Champion in Essay Writing Contest during the National Festival of Talents, for the first time, as Maybelle Joy P. Espenido from Madrid National High School, Madrid, Surigao del Sur, won the 1st Place, while Don Bern King G. Virtudazo of Bayugan National Comprehensive High School ranked 2nd in the Jingle Writing and Singing Contest.

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REGIONAL NEWS

In an interview, Espenido disclosed that it was her first time to be on the national competition and felt very fortunate especially for making it to the top and won.

“Since elementary I already have the passion in writing, especially in journalism. But this competition is different, this is my first time. Of course, part of the preparations I did for this contest was that I keep on researching things, like the population program of the government. For me, this event helped me honed my skills in writing and increased my knowledge on the pressing issues that we, the young people are facing today,” Espenido added.

Virtudazo, in a separate interview also revealed that the event helped him shared his skills and talent to everyone in the national arena. “I am thankful for this opportunity to share my skills and talent to my fellow students and contestants. The activity was a great venue to raise awareness about the prevailing issues on the rising incidence of teenage pregnancy. It also educated and helped us, the young people, to become more sexually responsible,” Virtudazo underscored.

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Both Espenido and Virtudazo are consistent honor students of their respective schools, from elementary to junior high school taking Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Class; always active in participating into different competitions, academic or nonacademic. The two never failed to bring glory and pride to their respective families and schools, according to their respective coaches.

In the agency’s continuing advocacy, Director Alexander A. Makinano of the Commission on Population (POPCOM)-Caraga emphasized the significance of the Festival of Talents as one of the key strategies of the Adolescent Health and Development (AHD) Program, especially the Population Quiz (POPQUIZ) where students challenge one another in the battle for Population and Development (POPDEV) knowledge and information.

The National Festival of Talents is an innovative way to reach young people and involve them in the advocacy while showcasing their skills and talents.

This is done in close partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd).

(POPCOM-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

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Provincial News

Surigao del Sur

SurSur records lower dengue cases

By: Greg Tataro, Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur - The province of Surigao del Sur is now in a better position after recording a lower number of dengue cases.

Based on the Disease Surveillance Report as of Morbidity Week 6th for the Period February 1 – February 10, 2018, Geographic Distribution under Dengue Fever Update stated that Surigao del Sur only got 45 number of cases from January 1 to February 10, 2018 while Surigao del Norte obtained the most number at 52.

All reporting units, which are arranged from having the highest to lowest, had a significant drop in the number of dengue cases recorded.

Rodrigo Gordo, Sanitation Inspector IV of the Provincial Health Office (PHO) here under Dr. Eric Montesclaros, pointed out that local government units (LGUs) at the city and

Last year, 2017, Surigao del Sur municipal levels under the province had 134 cases for the same period. had always been urged to intensify Dengue campaign in their respective

It was learned from the same areas, citing the “4S.” report that both cities in the province— Bislig and Tandag, had only three The 4S strategy for dengue stands cases, down from 11 and 28 cases, for Search and destroy, Seek early respectively. consultation, Self-protective measures and Say no to indiscriminate fogging.

In the entire region, there are 11 (Radyo Pilipinas-Tandag City/PIAdifferent reporting units, comprising of Surigao del Sur) five provinces and six cities.

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

SurSur guv hands over 36 units of farm tillers By: Greg Tataro, Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur Governor Vicente “BB” Pimentel, Jr. led the turnover ceremony of equipment and other farm implements in Surigao del Sur recently.

DA File photo

According to Marcos Quico, provincial agriculturist, 36 units of “floating tillers” were distributed to various farmers’ organizations in the sectors of irrigators and multi-purpose cooperatives with one unit apiece.

During the turnover rites, DA Caraga Regional Director Abel James Monteagudo was not able to come but his field office counterpart here in the person of Anthony Ouano acted on his behalf.

The provincial chief agriculturist bared that more of the same would still be coming since the number of floating tillers given for free were just among the total of 80 units that Department Agriculture (DA) Secretary Emmanuel Piñol had vowed to give to the farmers here when he visited the province in December 2016.

In a separate interview, Regalado Torrefranca, president of Siawang, Poblacion, Cabtic (SIPOCAB) Irrigators’ Association, admitted to have been so glad being among the recipients of the floating tiller, saying in vernacular that he felt so overwhelmed and was already eager to present it to their Board of Directors (BOD).

In fact, Quico added that a check amounting to P30M was set to be released soon. With this, he said that it would be up to the provincial government to do the procurement to finally seal the deal.

So thankful to President Rodrigo Duterte, Secretary Piñol, Governor Pimentel and Provincial Agriculturist Quico, the SIPOCAB leader likewise said that he can no longer wait to devise a schedule together with all his members

Also, he stressed that “farmers had in order not to deprive anyone in their nothing to worry about paying anything association of its benefit. (Radyo Pilipinasback!”

Tandag City/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

Army 401st brigade commander calls on NPA to give up arms

By: Greg Tataro, Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur - As the March 29 New People’s Army (NPA) 49th anniversary celebration draws near, the commander of the 401st Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army (PA), based in Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur, once again, made an appeal to the rebels to lay down their arms and return to the fold of the law.

Tagging the movement as only “consistent of being bane,” Col. Andres Centino is hoping against hope that NPA would come to their senses and change for the better.

rebels had only caused inconveniences.

The army official commented that going up against the government would not last that long had they only been successful.

Raising the question “What Besides, the army commander cited successes can they brag for the last 49 that NPA’s “numbers are dwindling!” He years?” Centino indicated that these went on to ask, “Will they still continue 17 - 23 March, 2018

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PROVINCIAL NEWS to celebrate their anniversary without gaining so much?” Then, again referring to the rebels’ upcoming anniversary, Col. Centino added that the “rebels are preparing for their anniversary year in and year out but no good has ever happened!”

Col. Centino also came to know about the pilot, Lynbert Guiloreza Laguda, of the said plane who died while being rushed to a hospital owing to a bullet wound. The army official said that it was good that the aircraft did not crash on a populated area that could spell huge disaster because the pilot was still able to

Meanwhile, “our government is land it safe. pursuing development initiatives by

The plane shooting incident was bringing services to the grassroots, described by Centino as ‘desperate especially in insurgency-affected areas,” move’ with an ulterior motive of just he said, adding that the administration is ‘gaining publicity.’ sincere on this.”

When asked whether the plane shooting in Tagbina town in Surigao del Sur could be linked to the rebels’ accomplishment to be highlighted during their anniversary, the brigade commander, whose area of responsibility (AOR) also covers the southern part of Surigao del Sur where Tagbina is located, said that NPA rebels were only good at victimizing civilians or people who were no match.

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‘On the contrary,’ he said that rebels were just ‘showing weakness’ by the violent act they did to the plane and the pilot as well.

On that note, the army commander pointed out that ‘majority of the Filipinos want peace and progress!’ He likewise stressed that “most of the people had long wanted to get rid of the NPA.” (FEA/NGBT/Radyo Pilipinas-Tandag/PIASurigao del Sur)

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Agusan del Norte

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Skills training development center to be established in Buenavista By: Jessica O. Mellejor

BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte – The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Agusan del Norte approved the Municipal Ordinance No. 37-2017 from the municipality of Buenavista, Agusan del Norte, establishing the Buenavista Skill Training and Development Center, providing mechanism in its implementation thereof and other purposes.

The proposed Training and Development Center is an alternative learning center in the said municipality, wherein the youth who are underprivileged and cannot afford to proceed his/her college education will be given the chance to harness their potentials through training programs to improve their learning skills which help them become competitive in finding a job or employment opportunities.

Republic Act 7160, particularly Section 17 which provides that local government units shall continue exercising the powers and discharging the duties and functions currently vested upon, and likewise exercise such other powers and discharge such other responsibilities as are necessary. appropriate, or incidental to efficient and effective provisions of the basic services and

Pushing for the approval of said

The center aims to contribute ordinance was through the efforts of the to the national government’s thrust in Committee on Education and Culture, addressing poverty alleviation. chaired by Provincial Board Member Aquino W. Gambe. (LGU-Agusan del

The proposed measure is in line with Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte) 17 - 23 March, 2018

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

Agusan del Sur

Magkiankang flower growers undergo training on quality production and marketing

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur – Twenty-one (21) cut flower growers of Barangay Magkiangkang, who are members of the Bayugan Federation of Cutflower and Ornamental Plant Growers (BAFEDCOPGRO) underwent a Skills Enhancement on Quality Cut Flower Production held in their barangay in Bayugan City.

Magkiangkang is known as one of and Industry-Agusan del Sur (DTI-AdS) the flower producing barangays in the and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of city with anthurium as its pride.

Bayugan City. The project aims to help improve the production and quality of

The group’s project is funded under cut flowers in the area. the Bottom up Budgeting (BuB), a project implemented by the Department of Trade Teresita Segundino and Joselito

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PROVINCIAL NEWS Boque – both technical staff of the City Agriculture Office (CAO) served as resource persons for the seminar. They provided inputs on the benefits of using organic fertilizers for anthurium and ways in managing ecological pests.

Merlie Peñalver, another resource speaker shared marketing skills on the second day. She emphasized that high production is important to answer the demand and the quality of flowers as well as handling customers.

nutrients, speeds plant growth, speed up composting works and helps prevents pests/ diseases;

2. FPJ or Fermented Plant Juice – a natural growth enhancer;

3. FFJ or Fermented Fruit Juice – a natural taste enhancer;

4. OHN or Oriental Herbal Nutrients – a natural immune booster and a natural pest repellant; and

5. FAA/KAA or Fish amino acid/ Kuhol Amino Acid, a natural amino acid.

The Nature Farming Technology System (NFTS) was discussed thoroughly to ensure proper understanding of the system.

The use of chemical free fertilizers aligning with the basic agriculture practices that follows Korean methods which purpose is to increase farm production with lesser expense.

The trainees did actual production of OHN concoction which ingredients such as onion, garlic, ginger and vinegar. The ingredients went through fermentation, then mixed with molasses.

Actual demo in applying organic fertilizer to anthurium was also done using rice hull and chicken dung.

The methods introduced were the Over-all facilitation was done by following: Negosyo Center-Bayugan City Project Staff/Counselors Charlott Carl Pingol and

1. IMO or Indigenous Microorganism Elphie Plaza. (DTI-Agusan del Sur/PIA– a method that helps revive soil Agusan del Sur)

Negosyo Center-Agusan del Sur partners with local senior high for students’ business immersion

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur – Some forty-one Grade 12 General Academic Strand students of Lucena National High School (LNHS), this municipality participated in an Entrepreneurial Mind setting and Values Formation conducted by Negosyo Center (NC)-Agusan del Sur.

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

The session, which also covered a briefing on Negosyo Center services and Business Expense Savings Training (BEST) Game Modules 1 and 2 was an off-site servicing done by the center to partner with LNHS’s business immersion requirement.

because the latter may not be able to provide the needed business immersion lessons.

Dennis Patosa, LNHS Senior High School Coordinator in his message before the start of the activity encouraged the students to participate actively and be open to new learnings as these will help equip them in making business plans for their business simulation activity in March 2018.

Five other sessions on marketing, business model canvass, supply chain, accounting and financial management, operations management and visual merchandising will be conducted every Friday this February 2018.

The business simulation is expected to showcase the students’ creativity and innovativeness in handling real life situations.

Patosa said they preferred this setup of relevant inputs and business simulation rather than sending students to “intern” in business establishments

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NC-AdS provincial Hub Counselors Rezel May Colongan Goloran and Lem Roboca facilitated the session.

Recent NC-academe partnership is just one of the many being handled by the #AdSNegosyoCenters to pursue one of its functions as provided in Republic Act 10644 or the Go Negosyo Act, which is to “coordinate with schools and organizations on the development of the youth entrepreneurship program.”

(DTI-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur) 17 - 23 March, 2018

Surigao del Norte

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Dinagat Islands joins Int’l Day of Forest celebration

SAN JOSE, Dinagat Islands - The province of Dinagat Islands joined the world in the celebration of the International Day of Forest through a tree planting activity conducted on March 20, 2018 along Kabisig Highway connecting Mahayahay Junction to Capitol Site in San Jose town.

This year’s celebration of the International Day of Forest is anchored on the theme, “Forests for Sustainable Cities, Lets promote a greener, healthier and happier place to live in.”

The Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) initiated the planting of 1,010 seedlings of Agoho tree most commonly known as “Pine Tree” and the simultaneous tree planting activity in the municipalities of Cagdianao, Dinagat, Libjo and Basilisa.

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The activity was also part of the flagship program of Governor Glenda B. Ecleo’s Verde Dinagat Highway that aims to promote a green community from the municipality of Cagdianao to Loreto.

Around 500 employees from the national line agencies, civil society organizations, cooperatives, people’s organizations, and Provincial Capitol employees took part in the said activity. (PIO-Dinagat Islands/PIADinagat Islands)

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

Surigao del Norte solon to initialize giant facility on waste management By: John Glenn A. Platil

“In this respect, the Integrated Sanitary Landfill and Materials Recovery Facility will make sure that there is zero paper, zero plastic left-over, and clean environment,”Matugas said.

In terms of the full implementation of programs aligned with communication awareness mapped toward taking action, the congressman also disclosed the ecobreak development initiative wherein synthetic and plastic are used to make hollow blocks.

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte - Siargao District Congressman Francisco Jose ‘Bingo’ Matugas II This means that plastic junks can be revealed that he is going to open a centralized solid waste management transformed into concrete blocks which are used in building school-buildings, facility worth P300 million.

During the February 24 episode of the radio program “Governor’s Weekend Report” that aired over three radio stations, the lawmaker said that ‘he is also planning to provide one dump truck per municipality for the effective collection of garbage and scrap.’

public toilets, huge buildings and other structures to boost tourism arrivals.

“We endeavor to regulate the use of cellophanes as per local ordinance and resolution crafted in every LGU concerned. We will initialize it in tranches, once a week, twice until such time that

Cong. Matugas said the provincial the people are amenable to make it government of Gyeongsangbuk-do in daily,” said Cong. Matugas. the Republic of Korea intends to install Matugas added that there is a high-powered technology for the waste need to be extra careful and sensitive to energy conversion. to the feelings of the people, in order to

He said that the state-of-the- avoid disruption and trouble respecting art equipment will accelerate proper the daily operations of official business, segregation of biodegradable and as well as to avoid any unnecessary non-biodegradable waste items. blow. (PGO-SDN/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

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Photo Gallery Philippine Red Cross Agusan del Norte-Butuan City Chapter 9th Board of Directors’ Regular Meeting 21 March 2018

64th RLECC Meeting

PNP-13 Conference Room, Butuan City 23 March 2018

Mindanao News

Marawi agri sector continue to receive support from govt, NGOs By: Kimberly Pajinag

MARAWI CITY - Farmer beneficiaries of the agrarian reform communities (ARCs) of Marawi City continue to receive agricultural support from government and non-government organizations as they rebuild their lives after the siege.

Through a funding support from the Government of the Kingdom of Belgium, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in cooperation with Department of Agriculture and Fisheries of Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, Department of Agriculture, and the City Agricultural Office of Marawi distributed on Tuesday, different agricultural inputs

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and tools to the war-affected farmers of the city.

The turnover ceremony is headed

by Belgium Ambassador Michel Goffin and FAO Representative in the Philippines, JosĂŠ Luis Fernandez in Brgy.

Dulay Proper, one of the 13 ARCs in Marawi.

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MINDANAO NEWS

Farmers that are engaged in rice production received certified rice seeds, bags of fertilizer, and assorted vegetable seeds. Also distributed are packages for boiler and vegetable production.

Meanwhile, FAO said that farmers who received the agricultural inputs are selected based on the following criteria: returned farmers who have been displaced by the siege; farmers of ARCs that have not received similar inputs from agencies or organization; and lastly, families with differently abled

The said effort is part of the members. livelihood convergence program of TFBM member agencies and its INGO The convergence initiative was partners with the primary goal of initially launched last January in five ensuring food security in the city through pilot barangays namely Guimba, boosting the food production in the Dulay Proper, Dulay west, Malimono, agricultural barangays. This support is and Cabasaran. The project aims to expected to assist the farmers as they reach more farmers and fisherfolk in 33 regain their capacity to sustain a living more barangays to contribute to food through various agricultural livelihood security of the recovering city. (PIA TFBM ICCC). activities.

House panel seeks budget hike for Mindanao By: Filane Mikee Cervantes

MANILA - The House of Representatives’ committee on Mindanao affairs is seeking for a substantial budget increase for Mindanao in 2019.

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MINDANAO NEWS

In a press conference on Wednesday, committee chairman Maximo Rodriguez said a realistic target of 20 to 21 percent of the national budget could be allotted for Mindanao next year.

that among the departments which delivered comfortable percentages to Mindanao are the Department of Public Works and Highways with 31.22 percent; the Department of Education with 23.47 percent; and the Department of Social Welfare and Development at

Citing a study conducted by 24.67 percent. the Congressional Policy and Budget Research Department, Rodriguez Rodriguez said his committee said around 16.2 percent of the 2018 created eight technical working groups national budget was allocated for to meet with different departments for Mindanao. For previous years ‎2014- the purpose of increasing Mindanao’s 2017, the average share was only 12.8 budget. (PNA) percent.

“It is our appeal to all our departments that Mindanao should receive its fair and equitable share of the national budget due to the 40 percent poverty incidence, the highest in the country; a growing population of 26 million which is one-fourth of the Philippine population; for the development of the island’s potential as the country’s food basket; and for peace to finally be achieved due to increase economic or socio-activities to uplift (people’s lives from) poverty,” Rodriguez said.

Rodriguez noted that among the departments which have very low budget for Mindanao were: Department of Transportation (1.62 percent); Department of Information and Communications Technology (1.65 percent); Department of Tourism (3 percent); Department of Interior and Local Government (3.02 percent), among others.

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Meanwhile,

he

highlighted 17 - 23 March, 2018

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

Persons with work-related disabilities get free rehab

By: Ma. Teresa Montemayor

MANILA - Persons with work-related disabilities (PWRDs) in the National Capital Region (NCR) and Calabarzon region can now enjoy free and accessible rehabilitation services.

This, after the Employee’s Compensation Commission (ECC) and the University of Perpetual Help Medical Center (UPHMC) in Binan, Laguna have signed a memorandum to provide such services through hospital partnership.

together with Work Contingency Prevention and Rehabilitation Division chief Dr. Melba Sacro.

The other organizers are UPHMCBinan representatives Dr. Victor Tamayo, Maria Consorcia Tamayo, Dr. Anna Sofia Victoria Fajardo, Dr. Adrien

ECC Director Stella Zipagan- Quidiat, Dr. Ananias Gilbuena Jr., and Banawis spearheaded the partnership Herminia Lagliva.

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17 - 23 March, 2018

NATIONAL NEWS

“This initiative is a product of the Employee’s Compensation (EC) rehabilitation program which basically aims to provide free and accessible physical restoration services to PWRDs in nearby Region 4-A and NCR,” Banawis said.

PWRDs who undergo entrepreneurial training can avail of the starter or complimentary kit of PHP20,000 to PHP30,000.

Banawis said all these will encourage the PWRDs to complete their therapy and training sessions.

Banawis said the linkage will help PWRDs become productive members of To date, ECC Regional Extension the society once they are reintegrated Unit 4-A already has 11 partner to the mainstream. hospitals in the region but Banawis

Apart from the rehabilitation encourages more hospitals with services provided by ECC partner facilities for psychosocial, physical and hospitals, PWRDs will receive a PHP500 occupational therapies to partner with meal and transportation daily. them. (PNA)

SSS offers again loan restructuring with penalty condonation

QUEZON CITY - More than 250,000 members of the state-run Social Security System (SSS) will benefit from the Loan Restructuring Program (LRP) with penalty condonation that will be offered from April 2 to 01 October 2018.

SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Emmanuel F. Dooc said the re-implementation of the LRP that condones penalties of borrowers with past due loans is a response to the widespread clamor of those members 17 - 23 March, 2018

who were not able to avail of the LRP offered last April 2016 to April 2017.

“We would like to express our gratitude to Pres. Rodrigo Duterte for granting us the authority to allow our

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NATIONAL NEWS

member-borrowers to clean up their loan accounts with SSS to be able to fully enjoy their benefits as members of the pension fund,” Dooc said.

The LRP allows member-borrowers to settle their overdue loan principal and interest in full or by installment under a restructured term depending on their capacity. For both schemes,

SSS implemented the first LRP in SSS shall waive all the loan penalties April 2016 with a one-year availment after the member has completed period that generated roughly P6 billion paying the restructured loan. for the pension fund and benefited more than 800,000 individual member- The program covers all memberborrowers. borrowers who have past due loans like the Salary Loan, Emergency Loan,

“While many have benefited Educational Loan (old), Study Now Pay from the Loan Restructuring Program Later Plan, Voc-Tech Loans, Y2K Loans implemented in 2016, we have also and Investments Incentive Loan. received numerous requests from members to extend or re-implement To qualify under the second LRP, it. As I can recall, members flocked to the loan must be past due for at least our branches on the deadline of the six months from the start of the second previous LRP last 27 April 2017. So for implementation of LRP. those who were not able to apply, this is your time to clean your outstanding Member-borrowers must be loan balance and regain your good- residing or working as of the date of the standing with SSS,” Dooc said. disaster in a calamity/disaster-stricken

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17 - 23 March, 2018

NATIONAL NEWS area declared by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) or in the case of Ondoy, by the National Government.

All 256 SSS branches and service offices nationwide will start accepting applications to LRP starting 02 April 2018. Qualified members only have six months to avail of the program or until 01 October 2018.

“Loan payment is inevitable for our members. Even if they avoid paying the loan amount at present, these loans - the principal amount plus interests and penalties - will be deducted from any final benefit they are entitled to like retirement, total permanent disability and death,” Dooc said.

Dooc, however, reminded borrowers who have approved LRP applications in 2016 to 2017 that they are no longer qualified to apply under the second LRP.

17 - 23 March, 2018

Moreover, members granted with any final benefit claim prior to the LRP availment period and those who committed fraud against the SSS are disqualified from the program.

Likewise, approved LRP applicants cannot participate in any future SSS loan condonation or restructuring programs to instill credit discipline.

“While the availment period of the LRP is just six months, we still expect to generate about P1.2 billion income from the program and condone some P2.85 billion penalties of our members.

This is our way of helping our members to clear their obligations within their capacity, as well as making sure that they have a secured future with their entitlement to full SSS benefits because we at SSS know that a majority of our members have undergone difficulties caused by disasters and calamities,” Dooc said. (SSS)

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

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EDITORIAL BOARD Executive Editor

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GERIE MAE G. COCO RONNIE E. MADANGUIT Contributors

JENNIFER P. GAITANO Agusan del Sur

NIDA GRACE B. TRANQUILAN Surigao del Sur

SUSIL D. RAGAS

Surigao del Norte/Dinagat Islands

FILANE MIKEE CERVANTES CALEB GALARAGA JESSICA O. MELLEJOR MA. TERESA MONTEMAYOR KIMBERLY PAJINAG JOHN GLENN A. PLATIL JOYCE ANN L. ROCAMORA GREG TATARO, JR. RADYO PILIPINAS-TANDAG CITY LGU-AGUSAN DEL NORTE DTI-AGUSAN DEL SUR PIO-DINAGAT ISLANDS POPCOM CARAGA PNP-CARAGA PGO-SDN PNA, SSS Business Managers

ZARINA O. LASTRA REGAL C. ORIBIA Photographer

ROBESPIERRE C. TRADIO

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

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

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

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