Caraga InFocus –March 19-25, 2022

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DA RECOGNIZES WOMEN AGRIPRENEURS IN CARAGA POPCOM COMMITS AID TO 5TH TO 6TH CLASS LGUS, GIDAS

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‘JUANAS’ IN THE MIGRANT SECTOR PRAISED BY OWWA-13

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DSWD CARAGA JOINS 2022 NATIONAL WOMEN’S MONTH KICK-OFF CELEBRATION

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DSWD CARAGA PREPARES LSWDOS FOR SDCC ASSESSMENT

DSWD CARAGA LAUNCHES SIBOL LOKAL PROJECT

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ASSOCIATIONS IN CONFLICT-VULNERABLE AREAS IN SURIGAO NORTE GET LIVELIHOOD AID FROM DSWD CARAGA

PROVINCIAL NEWS 17 19 20 21 FEATURE: WOMAN: A WARRIOR AND A LIFE CONQUEROR

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TESDA AGNOR GIVES NEW HOPE TO 24 INMATES THROUGH SKILLS OPPORTUNITIES 100 NA MAGKASINTAHAN SA SYUDAD NG CABADBARAN NAKILAHOK SA KASALAN NG BAYAN

P1.4-M ALANG SA MULTI-PURPOSE WAREHOUSE SA AGNOR, GIAPRUBAHAN

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PAGPATUMAN SA MANDANAS RULING POSIBLENG MAG-APIL OG BAG-ONG MGA HIRING SURSUR LGU ‘IMMORTALIZES’ CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION IN STAMPS

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TURN-OVER NG FIRE TRUCKS, MATAGUMPAY NA ISINAGAWA SA SURSUR SURIGAO NORTE BRACES FOR FULL DEVOLUTION WITH PAFES SURIGAO PORT GETS SAFETY SEAL CERTIFICATION

NATIONAL NEWS

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ANDANAR HOPES PCOO PROGRAMS CONTINUE UNDER NEXT ADMIN NO REMOVAL OF MASK MANDATE SOON TO CONTAIN COVID-19, SAYS PRESIDENT DUTERTE PRESIDENT DUTERTE HOPES NEXT ADMINISTRATION WILL CONTINUE NTF-ELCAC PRESIDENT DUTERTE WANTS SUCCESSOR TO GO RELENTLESS IN DRUG FIGHT PRESIDENT DUTERTE SIGNS AMENDMENTS TO PUBLIC SERVICE ACT DOF ASKED TO LOOK FOR MONEY FOR INCREASED CASH AID

COVID-19 NEWS 65.5M FILIPINOS FULLY VAXXED; 11.7M WITH COVID-19 BOOSTER SHOTS BOOSTER SHOTS CAN PREVENT ANOTHER SURGE OF COVID-19 CASES PH COVID-19 CASES NOW ON SLOW DECLINE: DOH

CONTENTS

REGIONAL NEWS

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INFOCUS

COVER

Caraga

Volume VI, No. 12 March 19-25, 2022

AgSur guv assures farmers of the needed assistance

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

to survive the disaster.

Citing the developments in the agriculture sector, Agsuan del Sur Governor Santiago Cane, Jr. emphasized that the provincial government has been working so well and in a good partnership with the Department of Agriculture (DA) Caraga, as the agency continues to provide the necessary interventions for the local farmers amid the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

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“Our plans are aligned to give assistance to our farmers and fisherfolks.

Right at the government center, we have six hectares of land where we can plant palay/rice, and I’ve instructed our provincial agriculturist to develop it. We will turn it into an area for the production of certified seeds so we can give them away for free for rice farmers. Since there was also a concern on the low price of palay, we also established

contingency plans for all rice producers that should rice price went below P13 per kilo, we will give them subsidies by providing them free transportation cost, or a P2-transport subsidy and assist them in drying their palay,” Cane said.

Governor Cane also recalled how farmers got affected with the recent typhoon Odette that hit the region including parts of Agusan del Sur, and how they were able

Caraga Infocus • March 19-25, 2022

“We’re back to normal already. When typhoon Odette struck last December, we were not greatly affected, there were only a few families who evacuated and some lost their homes, but these are very few individuals in the different municipalities. We’ve provided aid to the 10 affected barangays, especially the barangays along the Agusan River and floating barangays which sustained damage in their agricultural crops,” said Cane, as he shared the situation and assistance from the provincial government provided to the victims of typhoon Odette.

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Governor Cane further reiterated that the provincial government still continues to provide the

necessary assistance to the local government units and tourism sector to enhance and develop their respective tourism sites.

“Agusan del Sur is a land-locked province, even if we have no seas, we have nature tourism to offer to tourists like the Bega Falls in Prosperidad; Tugonon Waterfalls in San Lorenzo, Prosperidad; Makiwata in San Francisco. We help the LGUs improve their tourism sites. We also have cultural tourism and Agusan Marsh which is the biggest freshwater marsh in the Philippines,” he said.

Upland Sustainable Agriforestry Development (USAD) which we continued, and provided farm inputs and supervision of technical training to farmers. We added lowland Agroforestry development, and Wetland Sustainable Aquaculture Development in our wetland areas,” he said.

“At the start of my term in 2019, I called for an executive legislative agenda and the target is to reduce poverty incidence by 6% in Agusan del Sur in three years. All programs from 2019 to 2022 were focused on reducing poverty incidence, but The governor also due to COVID-19, it assured that more halted the progress of developments will be put these programs because in place in the province most of the funds to be for the benefit of the used were diverted and locals. “The programs realigned for COVID-19,” are aimed at reducing added Cane. (JPG/PIApoverty incidence like Agusan del Sur)

Caraga Infocus • March 19-25, 2022

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News Briefs (ONLINE OATHTAKING OF THE NEW PROFESSIONAL TEACHERS) The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) informs passers of the Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers that the conduct of online oathtaking will be on April 12, 19, 21, and 26, 2022 at 9:00 A.M., which will be spearheaded

by PRC-Cebu through Microsoft Teams. xx

With a total of 140,727,795 vaccine doses administered, the Philippines ranked 3rd in the vaccination administration among 10 ASEAN countries, 11th out of 47 countries in Asia, and 16th out of 205 countries globally as of March 22. The country, meanwhile, took the 4th spot among ASEAN countries in terms of 7-day average daily rate with 181,936. The country has administered 1,273,549 in the past 7 days. There are 70,495,518 first doses administered while 65,343,446 Filipinos have been fully vaccinated. There were 11,629,565 booster doses administered.

Regional Technical Director for Operations Rebecca Reyes Atega of DA-Caraga said that around 4,000 farmers are organic farming practitioners in the region covering of more than 29,000 hectares.

DA-Caraga is currently hosting the week-long National Organic Agriculture Board (NOAB) and Technical Working Group Meeting held in Butuan City.

The Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF) launched its early recovery programs this month following its Post-Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) on Typhoon Odette (International: Rai) hardest-hit areas.

REGIONAL NEWS

POPCOM commits aid to 5th to 6th class LGUs, GIDAs

DA recognizes women agripreneurs in Caraga As a way of honoring women farmer entrepreneurs in Caraga region, the Department of Agriculture (DA) together with the Robinsons Place Butuan opened the Kadiwa ni Ani at Kita Locally Sourced on March 22.

The 10-day fair seeks to give the farmer cooperatives and associations (FCA) and agripreneurs an avenue to sell their produce to a bigger market.

DA-Caraga Agribusiness

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and Marketing Assistance Division Chief Lynn Pareñas said that in observance of Women’s Month the trade fair also recognizes the efforts and contributions of rural women in the agriculture sector.

Entrepreneurship is the edge of rural women farmers as they manage to do the marketing and the processing of their produce. With this, a strategy in the OneDA Reform Agenda focuses on women’s engagement as they

can be one of the key agents of change in agriculture, nutrition, and rural development.

“Get fresh and affordable local produce at Robinsons Place Butuan, South Atrium expansion mall open from 10am – 9pm,” said Pareñas.

Said activity forms part of the month-long activities for this year’s Women’s Month celebration.

(DA-RFO XIII, RAFIS/PIACaraga)

Caraga Infocus • March 19-25, 2022

The Commission on Population and Development (POPCOM) Caraga continues its full implementation of Philippine Population and Development Program for 2022 which includes the provision of logistical and financial support to the 5th to 6th class provinces, municipalities, and cities in the region.

During the recently held online orientation on the Philippine Population and Development (PPDP) Thrusts for CY 2022, POPCOM Caraga Regional Director Alexander Makinano emphasized that the local government units will be mobilized by the commission in assuming the population and development services.

POPCOM Caraga will eventually limit its support for family planning services and delivery of commodities to the 5th to 6th class municipalities.

The commission shall also support the LGUs in the following areas: communications, advocacy and Caraga Infocus • March 19-25, 2022

partnership building, and monitoring and evaluation of POPDEV programs.

The 5th to 6th class LGUs and geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas or GIDAs, will also receive grant for the integration of Responsible Parenthood-Family Planning (RPFP), Adolescent Health and Development (AHD), and the Population and Development Integration (POPDEV) into their respective plans.

Meanwhile, Ricky Namion, chief of the Field Operation and Support Section (FOSS), presented the 2022 targets for the demand generation and referral services of the RPFP to the program partners, while Angelita Antonio, program manager for Adolescent Health and Development, presented the 2022 targets for the said program, focusing on the 5th to 6th class LGUs and GIDAs. (POPCOM-Caraga/PIACaraga)

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‘Juanas’ in the migrant sector praised by OWWA-13

The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Caraga recognized Juanas in the migrant sector through the Marilag Awards 2022 conducted on March 16 at Dotties Place, this city.

inspiring womens.

The top award under the Women Entrepreneurs category was given to Cherrylyn Mahilom, an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) who was a recipient of “Balik Pinas, The Marilag Awards Balik Hanapbuhay” aims to recognize under the OWWA the “natatanging Livelihood Program. kababaihan” (exemplary Another Marilag Award women) for their under the OWWAnian extraordinary role in the frontliners category was migrant sector and other given to Jean Mary frontline workers from Ladion.

OWWA. This is to also continuously empower In her message during fellow women in the the awarding, OICsociety through this Regional Director of

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OWWA Caraga Ma. Ireen Cambaling said that it is timely to host the Marilag Awards as the agency continues to give recognition to women and their contribution to society, particularly those in the migrant sector.

The Marilag Award was launched in 2019 as part of the Gender and Development initiatives of OWWA, in conjunction with the International Women’s Month.

(OWWA-Caraga/MCF/ PIA-Caraga)

Caraga Infocus • March 19-25, 2022

DSWD Caraga launches Sibol Lokal Project

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga, through the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) and in collaboration with the Enhanced Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty (EPAHP), launched the ‘Sibol Lokal’ Project – a mini trade fair, held recently at the New Covered Court of the Field Office.

Sibol Lokal, which is

conducted every Monday afternoon in the month of March at the DSWD Covered Court, is a regional promotion and marketing initiative that aims to showcase and advocate SLP products and services and to boost the DSWD employees and the general public’s interest in patronizing the products and services offered by the various SLP program participants in the region.

Caraga Infocus • March 19-25, 2022

OIC-Regional Director Ramel Jamen, in his message, said that Field Office Caraga has devised this initiative because the office believes that the SLP micro-enterprises and other micro, small, and medium enterprises take a critical role in magnifying the economy of the country.

Jamen also emphasized that DSWD employees should be the foremost

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advocates in promoting the products and services of the SLP associations to the public. “As DSWD staff, it is our call to personally know these products, extend our utmost support, and promote this to the public proudly. We shall remember that through the DSWD and the SLP, we have provided our communities at the grassroots level with opportunities that helped them improve their socioeconomic wellbeing,” he said.

Further, EPAHP Caraga

shall also extend a helping hand to the DSWD-SLP by providing assistance to the field office and to the associations in terms of market linkages.

Aside from SLP products and services, the Sumilihon-Taguibo Farmer’s Association (SUTAFA), composed of beneficiaries from the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), was also invited to join the activity and will be selling fresh fruits and vegetables regularly as well.

The concept of Sibol Lokal was derived from Likhang Hiraya, a photo exhibit and product trade fair initiated by the National Program Management Office of SLP last 2021. In Caraga Region, the field office decided to launch the Sibol Lokal so that the general public will become more familiar with the products of the SLPAs and provide a venue for the SLPAs to sell their products, especially in this time of pandemic.

(Social Marketing Section/DSWD-Caraga/ PIA-Caraga)

DSWD Caraga joins 2022 National Women’s Month kick-off celebration

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga joined the rest of the nation in the observance of the 2022 National Women’s Month Celebration (NWMC) with the theme, “We Make Change Work For Women” and subtheme, “Agenda ng Kababaihan, Tungo sa Kaunlaran.”

To officially begin the month-long celebration, a purple motorcade within Butuan City proper was conducted, followed by a regional kick-off ceremony

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Caraga Infocus • March 19-25, 2022

which took place at the Philippine Science High School Gymnasium, Tiniwisan, Butuan City.

The said activities were participated by different government and non-government organizations, partnerstakeholders, the private sector, and members from the Regional Gender and Development Committee (RGADC) including DSWD, which was represented

by Gender And Development Focal Person and Protective Services Chief, Jessie Catherine Aranas.

Caraga Infocus • March 19-25, 2022

DSWD-Caraga regional director Ramel Jamen shared that the NWMC 2022 highlighted the numerous achievements of women and girls in the community, emphasizing women as active contributors to today’s societal development.

The ceremony ended with the One Billion Rising Advocacy Dance to signify everyone’s commitment to continue promoting actions towards gender equality and women empowerment. (DSWDCaraga/PIA-Caraga)

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Associations in conflict-vulnerable areas in Surigao Norte get livelihood aid from DSWD Caraga

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The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga handed over two livelihood projects amounting to Php300,000 each to the Tongao Pongtod Farmers Association and San Juan Youth Association in Alegria, Surigao del Norte.

Through the Executive Order 70 (EO 70) Special Project of the DSWD Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), the Tongao Pongtod Farmers Association was awarded an agrivet and farm supply project while the San Juan Youth Association received a general merchandise project.

The recipient associations are located at Barangays Pongtod and San Juan, two barangays in the municipality of Alegria that are classified as conflict-vulnerable areas.

During the project turnover, one of the members of the San Juan Youth Association expressed their gratitude to the national government for entrusting them with the

responsibility to manage a livelihood project.

“Nagapasalamat mi nga gihatagan mi og oportunidad sa gobyerno nga mulambo pinaagi sa responsibilidad nga ilang gihatag sa amo nga i-manage ang among kaugalingong livelihood project (We’re thankful to the government for providing us with an opportunity to grow by giving us the responsibility to manage our own livelihood project),” a youth beneficiary said. (DSWDCaraga/PIA-Caraga)

Caraga Infocus • March 19-25, 2022

DSWD Caraga prepares LSWDOs for SDCC Assessment Being the partners in delivering social protection programs and services of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga, different Local Social Welfare and Development Officers (LSWDOs) were provided Technical Assistance and Resource Augmentation (TARA) through the conducted of the Consultation Dialogue for the 2nd round Service Delivery Capacity and Competency Assessment (SDCCA).

Conducted every three years, the SDCCA is an activity spearheaded by the department to assess the LSWDOs when it comes to the quality of services and intervention they provide for their constituents. DSWD is dedicated to improve the functionality of the LSWDOs to a higher level and this is achieved through guiding and providing appropriate technical assistance.

The 2-day activity was conducted per cluster. The following are the dates and venues: Agusan del Norte cluster – February 28-March 1, 2022 at the Grand Palace Hotel, Butuan City; Agusan del Sur Cluster – March 2-3, 2022 in the municipality of San Francisco; Surigao del Sur cluster – March 8-9, 2022 in the municipality of San Agustin; and Surigao del Norte and Province of Dinagat Islands Cluster on March 10-11, 2022 in Surigao City.

On behalf of OIC-Regional Director Ramel Jamen, Assistant Regional Director for Operations (ARDO) Jean Paul Parajes officially opened the activity by delivering an opening message.

“This consultation dialogue is an opportunity for us to identify our gaps in the Service Delivery and to prepare for the upcoming assessment. Along with the implementation of the Mandanas Ruling, here, we can plan Caraga Infocus • March 19-25, 2022

for the appropriate TA that you will need to arrive at the desired level of functionality specifically that the department is more on the steering functions, rather than the rowing which we used to be. Let this as well be a chance for us to facilitate constructive development,” Parajes said.

Part of the discussions were the presentations of the SDCCA baseline result 20192021, SDCCA tool, and presentation of Capacity Development Agenda based on the Devolution Transition Plan (DTP).

The participants also had a workshop on identifying baseline result gaps which they presented on the 2nd day.

With this, the LSWDOs committed to continuously coordinate with the department for the provision of proper technical assistance to improve their services and functionality for their respective offices despite the recent destruction brought about

by Typhoon Odette in several of the LGUs in the region. (Social Marketing Section/DSWDCaraga/PIA-Caraga)

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Feature

Woman: A warrior and a life conqueror

Mama, Nanay, Inay, Mommy.

PROVINCIAL NEWS

These four words are the most common endearment that people use in calling mothers.

Simple words but have deep meaning and play a vital role in the family.

In the rural area of Esperanza, Agusan del Sur, there live a legendary woman that has a thriving, strong and independent persona.

Lea Marie L. Libres, a 33-year-old single mother of two children, prove that a woman is capable of any man’s job. Lea is a

graduate of AB English and became an enumerator of the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) National Household Targeting System (NHTS) phases 1 and 2 enumeration, assigned in Cabadbaran City.

She got pregnant out of wedlock in the year 2010 and gave birth to her first baby, Grant, and in the following year, gave birth to a baby girl, Jillea.

She independently raised her children with pride and dignity without the presence of the children’s father.

In order to reach her

Caraga Infocus • March 19-25, 2022

dream to become a degree holder, she managed to work as Job Order Employee at the municipal government of Esperanza during the day, and studied college at night. Upon raising her two children without any support from their father, she suffered anxiety and depression, thinking about her and her children’s needs. But Lea realized that sitting around the corner will bring nothing to her. That’s why she engaged into different livelihood and sideline for additional income. She put up a small sari-sari store with her cousin. She’s also been to selling food,

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bigger than her fear of being judged. Instead of worrying negative thoughts from others, she cleared up her mind and focused on her job and raising her children.

vending barbeque and balbacua every weekend.

Indeed, her small business helped her to provide their basic needs.

After she graduated, she immediately started searching for a job, hoping for greener pastures, which landed her a job in DSWD. Luckily, she got hired as Social Welfare Assistant (CFA) in 2015, where she works until this present day. She is assigned in the Municipality of Sibagat, Agusan del Sur. She has made her legacy by providing quality service to the people and to the public.

When asked how tough it is to be a being a single mother, Lea replied, “Tough, dili nako ma feel jud, challenging hinoon ug blessings napud. Challenging siya

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in a way nga magsugod jud kas uno gikan sa pagbiya sa amoa sa ilang papa kay wala ni bisan piso. Walay sustento, so wala koy choice kundi maningkamot ug mangita ug diskarte para maprovide nako ang panginahanglon sa mga bata (I don’t see it as tough, I would rather say challenging, and a blessing. Challenging, since I have endured every bit of hardship since the father of my children left – we had no money then. I had no choice but to strive hard so that I can provide for my children’s needs).”

She also shared that she was about to give up because of discouragements that she received from other people. However, her determination and perseverance were

“The more nga nakita nako sila nga nag dako nga aduna sab pangandoy, the more madasig ko nga mas maningkamot luyo sa kakulangon ug kalisod. Dili ikabaylo ang kalipay nga makita nimo ang imong anak nga luyo sa imong pagpaningkamot sila sab naningkamot sa pag eskwela (The more I see them having aspirations in life, I work hard even more despite the hardships.

Nothing compares to the happiness you feel when you see your children persevere in their studies),” Lea shared when asked how she feels about her children.

Truly, if one sets their minds to reach success, no storm can stop them from striving to reach their goals. And during modern times, stereotypes of a woman being judged as weak and vulnerable must be broken.

“Dili ka babae lang, babae ka (You are not just a woman, you are a woman)!” said Libres.

(DSWD-Caraga/PIAAgusan del Sur)

Caraga Infocus • March 19-25, 2022

TESDA AgNor gives new hope to 24 inmates through skills opportunities The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Agusan del Norte recognized the 24 inmates of the Agusan del Norte Provincial Jail as graduates of Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) NC I under Special Training for Employment Program (STEP) and SMAW NC II under Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP) during their graduation rites on March 14, held at Agusan del Norte Provincial Jail, this for their dedication to city. complete the course.

These scholars are under the custody of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), tasked to safekeep and reform individuals convicted with crimes or those individuals waiting for the final verdict on their case.

Jail Warden Fermin Antenorio expressed his sincerest appreciation to TESDA-ADN Provincial Director Rey Cueva and to TESDA for being an instrument that gave these inmates a chance to have a better life as they reintegrate themselves to society.

In his message, Cueva congratulated the inmates

“I congratulate you all for your hardwork and enthusiasm. It is not easy to live inside the four walls of the prison cells but I am so proud that you were able to finish the qualification and acquire National Certificates which you could use in applying for a job here in the Philippines and abroad,” he said.

“TESDA is very much willing to provide you with more skills training based on your needs and requests. We are here for you,” he added.

The inmates were given certificates, which they proudly showed to the crowd during the ceremony.

Caraga Infocus • March 19-25, 2022

Also, the inmates showcased their talents in handicraft-making and displayed their handicrafts made of straw, paper, and other waste materials.

Cueva committed to allocate funds to support the inmates to help enhance their skills, which they can use to generate income while detained.

TESDA-ADN commits to support the BJMP in its mandate of transforming inmates into becoming better citizens. This is in line with Sec. Isidro Lapeña’s directive “TESDA Abot Lahat” and TESDA Caraga’s mantra “Caraga Cares” spearheaded by Regional Director Tarhata Mapandi.

(Ma. Niña Angela Gomez, TESDA-Agusan del Norte/ PIA-Agusan del Norte)

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P1.4-M alang sa multi-purpose warehouse sa AgNor, giaprubahan

100 na magkasintahan sa syudad ng Cabadbaran nakilahok sa Kasalan ng Bayan Umabot sa 100 na magkasintahan ang ikinasal sa Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte sa pangunguna ng City Civil Registrar sa ilalim ng programang Kasalan ng Bayan 2022.

Ayon kay City Civil Registrar Ma. Jean Milan Chee, isa itong highlight sa selebrasyon ng Civil Registration Month. Ito ay libre at suportado ng local government unit kung saan makakatanggap din ng regalo ang mga ikinasal.

Nanawagan si Chee sa

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mga Cabadbaranons na hindi pa kasal ngunit matagal nang magkasama o naglivein na samanatalahin ang libreng kasalan sa syudad.

Naniniwala rin si Mayor Judy Chin-Amante na ang pagpapakasal ay isang paraan upang maprotektahan at lalo pang mapagtibay ang pagsasama ng magasawa. Pinayuhan din niya ang mga ito na maging matatag sa kahit anong pagsubok na kanilang haharapin

bilang mag-asa.

Sa ginawang Kasalan ng Bayan, lubos ang saya at purong pasasalamat din ng mga ikinasal lalo na kay Mayor Amante dahil natupad na rin ang matagal na nilang inaasam na maikasal.

Ang Kasalan ng Bayan sa Cabadbaran City ay hinati sa apat na grupo o schedule upang mapanatili ang social distancing lalo na’t patuloy pa rin ang banta ng COVID-19. (NCLM/ PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Caraga Infocus • March 19-25, 2022

Mokabat sa PhP1,497,983.07 milyon ang budget sa gitakdang pagatukoron nga multi-purpose warehouse didto sa Demo Farm sa probinsya nga nahimutang sa Los Angeles, Butuan City human giaprobahan ang resolusyon nga naghatag otoridad kang Governor Dale B. Corvera sa pagpirma sa Contract Agreement tali sa napiling kontraktors.

Ubos sa Sanggunian Resolution No. 137-2022 mao ang kasabutan sa probinsya tali sa Quadcon Builders Design nga maoy mo trabaho sa konstroksyon sa multi-purpose warehouse alang sa implementasyon sa proyektong pre- and post-harvest facilities para cereals ug uban pang mga pang agrikulturang pananom diin ang badyet niini pagakuhaon sa 20% Development Fund sa probinsya sa Agusan del Norte.

Ang paghatag otoridad kang Governor Corvera sa pagpirma sa maong kasabutan giduso aron mapatuman sa kagamhanang opisyal ang paghatag og igong serbisyo ug programa sa kalamboan sa agrikultura pinaagi sa pagbaton og dekalidad nga pasilidad sa probinsya.

Gilayon nga ang hustong pagdumala sa mga nag unang panginahanglanon sa mga Agusanon magsilbi nga dakong tabang sa pagsulbad sa nagkalain-laing isyu sa katilingbanon ug

Caraga Infocus • March 19-25, 2022

ekonomiya. Dungan niini, ang pagbaton og preand post-harvest facilities masiguro ang kaluwasan sa pagkaon pinaagi sa pagpanalipod sa mga molds growth ug kontaminasyon.

Ang maog resolusyon giaprobahan sa Sangguniang Panlalawigan sa rekomindasyon sa Committee on Public Works sa pagpanguna ni Provincial Board Member Dick Victor Carmona atol sa ika-129th sesyon regular sa SP. (LGUAgusan del Norte/PIAAgusan del Norte)

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Pagpatuman sa Mandanas Ruling posibleng mag-apil og bag-ong mga hiring Posibleng mag-hire gyod og mga bagong empleyado aron epektibong mapatuman ang mga programa ug proyekto nga gipadagan karon sa mga nasudnong buhatan nga i-devolve ngadto sa mga local government units (LGUs). o “Full devolution of certain functions of Kini ang nakita atong the Executive Branch Marso 18, sa resulta of Local Governments, sa Rapid Appraisal Creation of a Committee sa kalabot niini nga on Devolution, and for gihimo sa Caraga other purposes”.

State University (CSU) alang sa Agusan del Sumala ni Ronald Norte Agriculture and Filipinas, personahe sa Fisheries Extension Provincial Agriculturist System (ADNAFES) Office (PAO) nga ang nga gipasiugdahan mga LGUs na gyod sa Department of ang mohimo sa mga Agriculture (DA). functions. Iyang dugang nga ang mahimong Ubos sa Mandanas papel sa probinsya Ruling, ang matag LGUs sa Agusan del Norte na ang mo implement mao ang paglantaw sa mga extension sa components, mag services apil na ang monitor ug mag pokus roles and functions sa mga programa sama sa pag conduct ug services diha sa og training, monitoring processing activities and productivity nga sama sa rice processing kabahin sa EO No. 138 center, construction of

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SurSur LGU ‘immortalizes’ centennial celebration in stamps

rice milling.

Sa ubang buluhaton diin kinahanglan gyod mag-hire og bag-ong empleyado, sumpay ni Filipinas, nga sunod sa resulta sa Rapid Appraisal.

Ang Rapid Appraisal pagsusi sa kaandam sa matag LGUs sa pagpadangat og agriculture and fisheries extension services sa katawhan sa Agusan del Norte nga gihimo sa CSU nag-apil og survey questionnaires, interview, ug group discussions sa matag LGU. (Shena Mae Pabia ug Reymar Reyes, LGU-Agusan del Norte/ PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Caraga Infocus • March 19-25, 2022

The local government of Bislig City in collaboration with the Philippine Postal Corporation issued commemorative stamps in connection with the Centennial Celebration of the City of Bislig, which was founded in 1921.

Karawasan Festival, and the official “First Day” cover that features the placid scenery of Lawigan Beach Resort and the Philippine Eagle, representing the rich culture and history of the city.

The stamps feature the official Centennial Poster for Bislig, the world-famous Tinuy-an Falls, the wondrous Kawa Kawa, and the joyous

The stamps are available for purchase at the City Treasurer’s Office for PhP12 each. (CIO-Bislig/PIASurigao del Sur)

Caraga Infocus • March 19-25, 2022

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Turn-over ng fire trucks, matagumpay na isinagawa sa SurSur

Matagumpay na naiturn-over sa limang fire stations sa Surigao del Sur ang tigiisang fire truck mula sa pamahalaang nasyonal, matapos ang isinagawang blessing at ceremonial turn-over ng mga ito sa Surigao del Sur Sports Complex sa Tandag City.

Tinanggap ng mga kinauukulang opisyal mula sa mga fire stations at lokal na pamahalaan ng Tandag City, Bislig City, mga bayan ng Tago, Bayabas, at San Agustin ang nasabing

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Surigao Norte braces for full devolution with PAFES

As the implementation of the Executive Order No. 138 commences this year, the Department of Agriculture (DA)-Caraga is also intensifying its drive to enhance the capacities of the provincial local government units (PLGUs) of the region in delivering agrifishery extension services.

mga sasakyan.

Dinaluhan ng mga imbitadong opisyal ang aktibidad, kabilang sina Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Caraga Assistant Regional Director for Administration SSupt.

Peter Sean Anthony Atup at Surigao del Sur Governor Alexander Pimentel.

Lubos ang pasasalamat

ni Governor Pimentel para sa mga nasabing fire trucks dahil matagal na itong hangarin ng mga alkalde at mga residente sa probinsya.

Ang mga nasabing fire trucks ay bahagi ng pagsusumikap ng BFP na gawing modernisado ang kanilang mga kagamitang pamataysunog. (John Cuadrasal, DXJS RP-Tandag/PIASurigao del Sur)

Caraga Infocus • March 19-25, 2022

In line with the implementation of EO No. 138 or the Full Devolution of Certain Functions of the Executive Branch to the Local Government Units, the DA is also implementing the Province-led Agriculture and Fishery Extension System (PAFES).

PAFES is one of the 18 Key Strategies and is under the Consolidation Pillar of the One DA Reform Agenda to transform Philippine agriculture. It aims to bring agriculture interventions to the grassroots level and to strengthen the collaboration

between the DA and the local government units, the academe, and the private sector.

On March 22, the province of Surigao del Norte, through Provincial Governor Francisco Matugas, signed the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for PAFES with the DA-Caraga represented by Regional Executive Director Engr.

Ricardo Oñate, Jr. The MOA signing signals the start of the PAFES implementation in the province. Surigao del Norte is the second province of the region to implement PAFES, next to Agusan del Norte, which is the pilot province in Caraga.

DA-Caraga PAFES Focal Person Edelmira Luminarias said that with the MOA signing done, the next step is working on the Collaborated Provincial and Fisheries

Caraga Infocus • March 19-25, 2022

Extension Program (CPAFEP) plans and programs for the years 2023 and 2024 for inclusion in the DA’s regular programs through a nationalprovincial co-financing arrangement.

On the other hand, Provincial Governor Matugas recognized the achievement of the farmers and fishers and their vital role in the province’s socio-economic improvement.

“With the establishment of PAFES in the province, the agri-fishery stakeholders are assured that they will be given better service,” the Governor added.

Prior to the MOA signing, orientation, as well as Rapid Appraisal, was conducted to determine the readiness of the province to implement PAFES. (Vanessa P. Sanchez, DA13-RAFIS/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

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Surigao port gets Safety Seal Certification

The Baseport of the Port Management of Surigao gets the much-coveted Safety Seal Certification after a team led by Department of Local and Interior Government (DILG)-Surigao del Norte verified its compliance and adherence with the minimum public health standards set forth to contain the spread of COVID 19 and prevent future surges.

Norte, Philippine National Police (PNP)-Surigao City, and Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)-Surigao City conducted an onsite ocular inspection and verification of the Port of Surigao’s buildings and physical facilities.

Acting Port Manager Froilan Caturla received the seal on behalf of the Philippine Ports Authority – Port Management Office (PPA-PMO) Surigao.

The Safety Seal was issued on March 14, 2022, Caturla said that the after representatives issuance of a Safety Seal of the DILG-Surigao del Certification for the Port

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of Surigao only proves that the PPA seriously implements what it has been advocating since the start of the pandemic – the observance of health protocols and ensuring that its buildings are adequately ventilated.

Caturla added that other terminal ports under PMO Surigao are now working for the issuance of their respective Safety Seal Certifications in accordance with DILG guidelines. (PPA-Surigao/ PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Caraga Infocus • March 19-25, 2022

NATIONAL NEWS

Andanar hopes PCOO programs continue under next admin

PCOO Mindanao media hub (File photo)

Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar has expressed optimism that his successor would continue the reform initiatives he has undertaken to improve the government’s communication and information services.

During a workshop held Tuesday in preparation

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for the handover of documents to the next administration, Andanar said the PCOO and its attached agencies have made significant strides under his leadership.

“It is very important to explain to them what we have done and why we did it. Let us show them the rationale behind our programs and give them compelling reasons why these should be carried

on. We should also give them a broad picture of our offices - our structure, functions, our people, our assets as well as our liabilities,” he said.

Andanar cited the modernization of the People’s Television Network (PTV-4), the rehabilitation and improved audience rankings of Radyo Pilipinas’ stations, and the “quantum

Caraga Infocus • March 19-25, 2022

leap” in the Philippine News Agency’s (PNA) readership.

we are hoping our successors in PCOO and attached offices will recognize and sustain.

He also took pride in the That’s why this New revival of Intercontinental Administration Continuity Broadcasting Handover or NACHo Corporation’s (IBCactivity that we are 13) glory by serving as undertaking now is very the primary carrier of crucial to adequately DepEd (Department of present our agencies Education) TV, as well as and programs for the the strengthening of the appreciation of the next Philippine Information administration,” Andanar Agency’s (PIA) onsaid. ground presence by constructing new Now in a ‘better state’ regional buildings.

With less than four Andanar likewise months before he bragged about the steps down from office, improved systems, Andanar expressed capability and confidence that he will infrastructure of the be leaving PCOO and its Radio-Television attached agencies in a Malacañang “better state.”

(RTVM), Bureau of Communications He said the government Services (BCS), National media is “now at par Printing Office (NPO), [with], if not even better, and APO Production than private media.”

Unit.

“We have also He added that his vision strengthened our internal of having a Government organizations to keep up Communication with fast-paced changes Academy and media and to consistently hubs in Visayas and deliver satisfaction Mindanao has been to our customers. We realized. have attained ISO certification for some “These are only some of our offices, including of the few gains that the NIB, RTVM, and soon Caraga Infocus • March 19-25, 2022

for PCOO and NPO. We have empowered our people not only through capabilityand capacitybuilding activities but also through career progression by way of promotion or regularization,” Andanar said.

He said he is now ready to hand over the PCOO and its attached agencies to his successor.

“While we wish we could have more time to make more headway in further improving and strengthening our offices, our government media, we are proud to say that we will be leaving PCOO and its attached agencies in a definitely better state than when we assumed office here six years ago,” he said.

Smooth transition In her opening remarks, Communications Undersecretary for Broadcasting and Mass Media Raquel Tobias guaranteed the “smooth” transition in PCOO and its attached agencies.

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No removal of mask mandate soon to contain COVID-19, says President Duterte

“Assuming a post in the national government is not an easy task and this activity spearheaded by the PCOO is commendable for it would ensure the smooth transition in PCOO and its attached agencies,” Tobias said.

Tobias also hoped that the new administration transfer to the next would keep the PCOO’s administration. vital role in delivering and disseminating “We started in PCOO information to the public. back in 2016 without anything from the “The workforce would previous Administration. also benefit because it Our good Secretary, is business as usual and Officials, and Head of life goes on, despite the Agencies practically changes or transition. started from scratch. Our This would also ensure only head start is that we that the operations of are fueled with passion each agency will not to provide sincere public be hampered, and service,” Ablan said. the usual information dissemination and public Ablan, the service will still be given undersecretary for to the people,” she said. administration, finance, and Freedom of ‘Product of hard work’ Information (FOI), said with proper transition, Undersecretary Kristian there is no reason why Ablan, the transition the next administration committee chairperson, “should discontinue what said the dedication we have started.” and hard work of the men and women of the “The accomplishments, PCOO have produced innovations that were good accomplishments implemented, the that they aim to

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Andanar

technology acquired, knowledge we gained, infrastructures that have been built and some are still underway, programs and projects that were institutionalized, changes that we administered, were product of dedication, professionalism, and hard work of the men and women of PCOO,” Ablan said.

“These shall not be put on the side. These should be transferred, presented, and transitioned to the next Administration. These are the reasons why we are here today, to ensure that these accomplishments, programs and projects shall continue,” he added. (PNA/Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)

Caraga Infocus • March 19-25, 2022

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Monday said that he is not ready to lift the existing mask mandate, citing its importance in containing the spread of COVID-19 particularly with the discovery of a new strain of the virus in Israel.

“But you know itong mask na ano maraming nagtatanong, alam mo I am not ready to order

the removal of the mask.

Pero siguro ‘yung plastic na ano cover puwede na ‘yun pero it has I said it has done a lot of good that prevented the contamination from spreading,” the President said during his weekly Talk to the People briefing.

“So matagal pa ito. And there are reports I said that I don’t know if it’s —

Caraga Infocus • March 19-25, 2022

subject to confirmation — na may bagong COVID found in Israel. So whether we like it or not, kung totoo ‘yan, it will reach again the shores of our country.”

The President asked Congress to retain the unspent fund under the Bayanihan Law if ever it decides on new legislation. The money, he said, was returned to

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that from March 15 to 21, the country has recorded 3,431 new COVID-19 cases, or 490 new infections a day.

This figure is lower than the cases recorded from March 8 to 14, which posted 3,951 new cases, with daily average of 564 cases. the National Treasury.

Mr. President, na huwag natin itong “But huwag galawin ‘yan pakawalan. Tama po kasi that is in preparation ‘yung sinabi niyo kanina, for another surge of Mr. President. Thank another variant. Nagmu- you for underscoring mutate itong monster the importance of our na ito and hindi natin minimum public health malaman kung ano standards,” Duque said talaga ang katapusan during his report to the nito. But I guess it would President. be there or here for the longest time.”

“Masking, hindi pa natin po ito Health Secretary puwedeng pakawalan.

Francisco Duque III Kinakailangan po supported the President’s patuloy natin sundin stance on masking ang panuntunan ng policy, saying data atin pong Department shows complying with of Health at ng IATF. minimum public health Ngayon, sa konteksto standards (MPHS) is very naman, sa Pilipinas effective in preventing naman ang paggamit the spread of the — itong lokal na mga coronavirus. datos, naobserbahan din natin ang magandang “So, sa nakitang bunga ng pagsunod sa magandang dulot ng MPHS.” compliance sa MPHS, aming inirerekomenda, The health chief reported

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Infections are also decreasing in the National Capital Region (NCR), Duque reported.

The recent daily average is at 158, or 5-percent lower compared to the 166 cases per day recorded from March 8 to 14, which is consistent with the decreasing trend nationally.

Duque said that aside from the strong adherence to the minimum public health standards, the country’s wide vaccination coverage is another factor driving the drop in the number of infections.

As of March 2022, 72 percent of the target population is fully vaccinated, which is equivalent to 65 million Filipinos getting the full dose of the jab. PND

Caraga Infocus • March 19-25, 2022

President Duterte hopes next administration will continue NTF-ELCAC President Rodrigo Roa Duterte expressed hope Monday that the next administration will continue implementing the campaign of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) to eventually put an end to communist rebellion in the country.

NTF-ELCAC is a task force organized by the government to respond and raise awareness to the ongoing communist rebellion in the Philippines.

“Kagaya nitong ELCAC, it’s a very good program.

It has helped a lot of the rebels find their way into the mainstream of society at makisali kayo,” President Duterte said during his weekly Talk to the People briefing.

“Hindi man kayo mabigyan kaagad, just be patient. But kung sana halos lahat nabigyan ko…

Let’s — tingnan natin ‘yung mga bahay na nabigay sa mga rebels at ‘yung lupa.”

The President once again encouraged communist insurgents to surrender, promising them job, training and livelihood, as

well as land and shelter.

Government agencies such as the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) are ready to provide skills training.

Rebels returning to the fold of the law will receive a parcel of land and a housing unit like the President distributed in Leyte recently.

All they have to do, he said, is to go to a police or military facility in their area and surrender.

“Hini-jack ko ‘yung propaganda, the one propaganda that the communists, the terrorists are relying is noon

Caraga Infocus • March 19-25, 2022

walang lupa. Now, I have distributed something like 160 — 100,000 hectares ang naibigay ko na,” he said.

“At ‘yung pabahay gawin natin malista lang naman kayo and I hope the next administration will continue with this ELCAC.” Last week, the President inaugurated the new Leyte Provincial Capitol and led the distribution of certificates of land ownership awards (CLOAs) to agrarian reform beneficiaries including former rebels.

He also handed out housing units at the Peace and Prosperity Village to former rebels. PND

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President Duterte wants successor to go relentless in drug fight “At dito po makikita po natin na umaabot ng 1,600 kilos or 1.6 tons na shabu na umaabot ng P12 billion ang nasakote ng ating mga law enforcers. At sa kabuuan po ay makikita natin na 1,700 kilos na shabu at 421.5 kilos na marijuana naman po ang nasamsam natin na umaabot ng P13.2 billion,” Año reported.

Underscoring the threat posed by illicit narcotics to the country, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Monday said he would like to discuss the issue with the next president for the continuation of the antiillegal drugs campaign that he started.

The President made the statement following a report of what authorities say is the largest drug haul in the country’s history.

“Kung mapunta ito doon sa street level, doon sa mga basurero, maraming na namang Pilipino na ano. Ang problema nito, it induces insanity sa tao kaya... Ito papatayin na naman, ‘pag walang mga pera mag-holdup, lahat na. At ang — multiple ang

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problema dito,” President Duterte said in his weekly public address.

The interior chief said this is the largest drug haul in the history of the Philippines.

“Sige, let us go and look for them, hunt them down,” he added.

Following the record drug confiscation, he vowed to intensify the government’s anti-illegal drug campaign to get rid of the threat posed by illicit narcotics to Filipinos especially the young population.

In his report to President Duterte, Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo Año said combined forces of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), Philippine National Police (PNP), and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) confiscated P12 billion worth of shabu in Infanta, Quezon, last March 16. Ten people were also arrested in the drug operation.

Law enforcement agencies have conducted 1,794 anti-illegal drug operations from March 6 to 19, and arrested 2,471 people, including a Chinese national and a Filipina nabbed in Barangay Karuhatan, Valenzuela City. Lawmen confiscated 160 kilos of shabu worth P1 billion.

PND

Caraga Infocus • March 19-25, 2022

President Duterte signs amendments to Public Service Act President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Monday signed into law Republic Act No. 11659 amending Public Service Act (PSA) that will open several economic sectors to full foreign ownership.

In signing the legislative measure, the President said the amendments will help the economy recover from the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, thanking Congress for its timely ratification.

“I believe that through this law, the easing out of foreign equity restrictions will attract more global investors, modernize several sectors of public service and improve the delivery of essential services,” President Duterte said during the ceremonial signing of the law and the presentation of other newly signed measures in Malacañang.

“Indeed, the enactment of this amended law, as well as the amended Foreign Investments Act, shall help stimulate the economy, especially for local businesses.”

telecommunications, airlines, expressways and tollways, railways, as well as shipping.

The amendments classify the distribution and transmission of electricity, petroleum and petroleum products, pipeline transmission systems, water pipeline distribution and wastewater pipeline systems, seaports, and public utility vehicles as public utilities subject to the 40-percent foreign ownership cap under the Constitution.

“It is also expected to generate more jobs for Filipinos, improve basic services for Filipino consumers, and allow for the exchange of skills and technology with the country’s foreign partners.”

Other newly signed Republic Acts (RAs) presented on Monday were Amendments to the Foreign Investment Act (RA 11647), Increasing the Age for Determining the Commission of Statutory rape (RA 11648), and Instituting Policy and Services for Learners with Disabilities in Support of Inclusive Education Act (RA 11650).

The amendments to the PSA is aimed at encouraging investment in sectors essential to public welfare, most notably

Joining the President were Senate President Vicente Sotto III, House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco, Executive Secretary

Caraga Infocus • March 19-25, 2022

Salvador Medialdea, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III, Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra, Education Secretary Leonor Briones, Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rolando Joselito Bautista, Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi, and Presidential Communications and Acting Spokesperson Secretary Jose Ruperto Martin Andanar.

Also in attendance were Public Works and Highways Acting Secretary Roger Mercado, Acting Cabinet Secretary Melvin Matibag, Information and Communications Technology Acting Secretary Emmanuel Rey Caintic, Presidential Assistant for the Visayas Michael Lloyd Dino, Anti-Red Tape Authority Secretary Jeremiah Belgica, PLLO Acting Presidential Adviser on Legislative Affairs Luzverfeda Pascual, and Senators Maria Imelda Marcos, Sherwin Gatchalian, Christopher Lawrence “Bong’ Go, and Francis Tolentino. PND

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DOF asked to look for money for increased cash aid

Andanar said in a radio interview that the monthly subsidy is on top of the cash grants already being given to beneficiaries of 4Ps, adding the additional aid will help them cope with inflation as a result of oil price increases.

Last week, President Duterte approved the recommendations of the finance department to support poor households in response to the rising fuel prices.

Increasing the proposed monthly subsidy for poor families from P200 to P500 will help them cope in the midst of skyrocketing fuel prices, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte said on Monday, noting he has ordered the finance department to find a way to fund the scheme.

“I’d like to announce na --- sinabi ko kay Sonny (Dominguez), well also from the ground, ‘yung feedback, ‘yung ayuda niyo na P200. Sabi ko

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rin sa kanya talaga it’s too small, too small sa isang buwan,” President Duterte said during the ceremonial signing of the Public Service Act and Presentation of Various Enacted Laws in Malacañang.

“Kaya sabi ko, ‘Maghanap ka ng pera saan.’ Nagbubulungan kami. Masyadong mababa ‘yan. Cannot sustain a family of three, even four, five, ‘yung nasa baba, ‘yung may pinakamaraming anak.”

The recipients of the subsidy will be the country’s productive citizens in the future, he pointed out, adding it’s up to the next president to adjust.

The cash aid will be handed out to poor households already receiving conditional cash grants under the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), according to the Palace.

Communications Secretary Martin

Caraga Infocus • March 19-25, 2022

The recommendations include the retention of the fuel excise taxes and the grant of P200-permonth cash aid to the bottom 50 percent of Filipino households.

During President Duterte’s Talk to the People briefing last Wednesday, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III said retaining fuel excise tax collection will benefit at least 12 million individuals from lowincome households in the country.

Apart from the poor

sector, the excise tax on fuel imposed under Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law will also provide the budget for the salaries of state workers and help fund infrastructure developments in the country, he pointed out.

The finance chief also refuted claims that suspending the collection of fuel excise tax will help soften the blow of the oil price

Caraga Infocus • March 19-25, 2022

hike, saying that this will instead cause more harm than good if it causes the Philippines’ debt-to-gross domestic product (GDP) ratio to increase.

Moreover, if the tax on fuel is reduced, it will only benefit the top 10 percent of income earners in the Philippines, which consume almost 50 percent of all the fuel.

PND

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65.5M Filipinos fully vaxxed; 11.7M with Covid-19 booster shots last week, as reported by the Department of Health (DOH).

DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said in a Palace briefing Friday there are 454 daily cases on the average, lower than the 490 in December before the surge of the Omicron variant.

(PNA file photo by Rico H. Borja)

The Philippines has administered 141.2 million doses of coronavirus diseases (Covid-19) vaccines nationwide, with over 65.5 million individuals already with full protection, including those who received the single-shot Janssen and Sputnik Light jabs.

As of Friday, 11.7 million of those fully inoculated have booster shots, according to the latest data from the National Task Force (NTF) Against

Covid-19.

NTF chief implementer, Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., earlier said the government will focus on the Covid-19 vaccination program in regions and provinces that are lagging behind their targets.

The country’s massive vaccination program has contributed to the decline of cases, with the number of infections this week down by 15 percent compared to

Caraga Infocus • March 19-25, 2022

“We have done the massive vaccination at the time that there were surges and we immediately decided to administer a booster three months after the administration of primary boosters,” Galvez said in a previous interview.

Since February last year, the Philippines has received more than 239.7 million doses of Covid-19 jabs, both procured and donated.

The latest addition is the shipment of 936,000 doses of Pfizer on Thursday night. (PNA/ Lade Jean Kabagani)

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Booster shots can prevent another surge of Covid-19 cases

PH Covid-19 cases now on slow decline: DOH

As of March 15, data from the National Admissions by Health Status showed that a large percentage of the admissions were mild (2,382), and asymptomatic (1,257) cases.

An infectious disease expert on Monday urged fully vaccinated individuals to get their booster shots to prevent another surge of Covid-19 cases.

In a televised public briefing, Department of Health – Technical Advisory Group member Edsel Salvaña said that the resurgence of infections is a possibility since Covid-19 “showed surprises worldwide”.

“We have tools with which we have turned Covid into almost an endemic virus. Kung mapapagpatuloy pa natin ‘to, wala na pong bagong variant na lumabas, tuloy-tuloy na po ‘yan (If we can continue these, no new variant comes out, these will go on) towards endemicity,” he said.

The administration of a fourth dose for the immunocompromised, Salvaña said, is being studied as data are

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The severe case admissions were 627 while that of critical cases were 281.

(PNA file photo)

(PNA file photo by Joey Razon)

“still very preliminary” worldwide.

To date, 65,171,415 Filipinos are fully vaccinated while 11,530,728 of them have booster shots.

The vaccination for the pediatric sector also continues to gain momentum, with some 11 million aged 5 to 17 receiving at least one dose.

This number is expected to increase following the Food and Drug Administration’s approval of the use of the Sinovac vaccine for minors, pending the release of the final guidelines.

Salvaña explained that vaccination even after contracting Covid-19 will lead to hybrid immunity, which is the most durable and effective kind of protection. (PNA/ Ma. Teresa Montemayor)

Caraga Infocus • March 19-25, 2022

The country’s coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) cases are now on a slow decline, a health official said Friday.

During an online media forum, Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire reported the average cases per day in the recent week is lower by 29 percent than the cases last week.

For the period March 10 to 16, the average daily reported cases is 534.

Meantime, the average

daily reported cases for the period of March 3 to 9 is 752.

Vergeire said the current average daily reported cases could be likened to that of November last year before the country was attacked by the Omicron variant.

“Our epidemic curve shows a swift decline following a peak of cases, this decline has slowed down over the past two weeks,” she said.

Caraga Infocus • March 19-25, 2022

“Currently, our national admissions are going down by 71 percent which peaked last January of this year.

Now, we only have 5,890 admissions and we can see it’s plateauing in the past days,” Vergeire said.

The total bed utilization rate is classified low risk at 18 percent.

The intensive care unit utilization rate also decreased by 32 percentage points -now at 19 percent from 51 percent on January 22. (PNA/Ma. Teresa Montemayor)

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Regional Office Jose Rosales Avenue, Butuan City piacaraga@gmail.com; pia_caraga@yahoo.com.ph (085) 341-5285; (085) 815-1991 Philippine Information Agency Caraga @PIACaraga

Information Centers AGUSAN DEL NORTE Jose Rosales Avenue, Butuan City (085) 815-1991 pia.northagusan@gmail.com PIA Agusan del Norte

AGUSAN DEL SUR Provincial Government Center, Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur 0917-723-3455 pia.agusandelsur@yahoo.com.ph PIA Agusan del Sur

SURIGAO DEL NORTE/DINAGAT ISLANDS Parrucho corner Magallanes St., Surigao City (086) 826-9450 piasurigao@gmail.com PIA Surigao del Norte; PIA Dinagat Islands

SURIGAO DEL SUR Old DPWH Bldg., Telaje, Tandag City (086) 211-3353 piasurigaosur@gmail.com; sds_pia@yahoo.com.ph PIA Surigao del Sur