Caraga InFocus –May 14-20, 2022

ARMY RESERVISTS LEAD SERIES OF CLEAN-UP DRIVE IN CARAGA REGION

8

NNC CARAGA NOW A CPD PROVIDER NSTP STUDENTS PARTICIPATE IN “OPLAN LINIS” RTWPB CARAGA CONDUCTS PUBLIC HEARINGS ON MINIMUM WAGE ADJUSTMENT SEVEN CARAGA FCA GETS E-KADIWA FINANCIAL GRANT FROM DA DILG CARAGA NOW IN FULL BLAST IN LGU ASSESSMENT FOR 2022 SGLG

10

COMELEC CARAGA TINIYAK NA MAS MAGIGING MAAYOS AT ORGANISADO ANG BARANGAY ELECTION SA DISYEMBRE COMELEC CARAGA BINIGYANG-PUGAY ANG PROBINSYA NG DINAGAT ISLANDS NA PINAKAUNANG NAKAPAG TRANSMIT NG ELECTION BALLOT RESULTS

PROVINCIAL NEWS 20 21 22

47

RENUNCIATION OF REBELS CONTINUES, NPA VICE TL YIELDS

26

AGSUR STAKEHOLDERS JOINED IN OPLAN LINIS

23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

44

DPWH IMPROVES ACCESS ROAD TO WHITE SAND BEACHES IN SURSUR TOWN, MORE VISITORS EXPECTED TO COME THIS SUMMER

CARRASCAL TOWN IMPLEMENTS STRICTER MEASURES AGAINST ASF 1,734 FARMERS BENEFIT ONE-STOP-SHOP IN CANTILAN TOWN SURSUR REP PIMENTEL HAS 73 HOUSE MEASURES ENACTED INTO LAW DOLE RELEASES P43M TUPAD SALARIES TO 13K INDIVIDUALS IN SURSUR ANG LGU-CARRASCAL MIDUYOG SA PAGSELEBRAR SA TINUIG NGA PAGSAULOG SA FARMERS AND FISHERFOLKS MONTH DTI AGNOR AWARDS SAFETY SEAL CERTS; MONITOR PRICES IN BUTUAN CITY ESTABLISHMENTS HINUNGDAN SA SAYO NGA PAGBUNTIS SA KABATAN-ONAN SA CABADBARAN, GIBUTYAG CARAGA NATALA ANG UBOS NGA AHD SA Q1 POPCOM

31 32 33 34 36 37 38 39

DBM NAG APROBAR SA DTP SA POPCOM POPCOM, LGUS MUTONOL OG HINABANG BINULAN SA MGA BATAN-ONG INAHAN POPCOM CARAGA UG LGU GISERBISYUAN ANG GIDA DOST IMPLERMENTS ECOTOURISM AND DISASTER RESILIENCE PROGRAM IN SIARGAO ISLAND CASSAVA PROCESSING FACILITY SOON TO RISE IN GIDCA COMMUNITY IN GIGAQUIT TOWN LGU SURIGAO NORTE PRESENTS AGRI-FISHERIES PLAN TO DA CARAGA DTI DINAGAT ISLANDS INTENSIFY ITS MONITORING ON PRICES OF BASIC NECESSITIES AND PRIME COMMODITIES LGU DINAGAT ISLANDS, IOM PORMAL NGA MI TURN OVER SA MODEL HOUSE UBOS SA PROGRAMANG LIBRENG PABAHAY

41 42 44 46 47 50 52 53

MINDANAO NEWS GOVT’S ECONOMIC RECOVERY STRATEGY BOOSTS MINDANAO’S GROWTH PROJECT MONITORING IN WESTERN MINDANAO

NATIONAL NEWS PRESIDENT DUTERTE ATTENDS LAUNCH OF PHLPOST’S DIGITAL INNOVATION, MODERNIZATION PRESIDENT DUTERTE OFFERS CONDOLENCES ON THE PASSING OF UAE PRESIDENT SHEIKH KHALIFA COUNTRY’S SALVATION RESTS WITH THE YOUTH, PRESIDENT DUTERTE TELLS 2022 PMA GRADUATES

COVID-19 NEWS NO LOCAL TRANSMISSION OF OMICRON BA.2.12.1 YET: DOH COVID-19 CASES ‘MANAGEABLE’: INFECTIOUS DISEASES EXPERT SMOOTH TRANSITION OF PANDEMIC POLICIES TO NEXT ADMIN SEEN

CONTENTS

8 10 11 12 13 15 17 18

REGIONAL NEWS

INFOCUS

COVER

Caraga

Volume VI, No. 20 May 14-20, 2022

infected with HIV-AIDS, and provide them the necessary treatment through their many programs.

DOH Caraga intensifies programs for persons living with HIV-AIDS

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

The Department of Health (DOH) Caraga intensifies its campaign against discrimination and implementation of programs intended for those persons living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV-AIDS).

According to DOHCaraga regional director

4

Dr. Cesar Cassion, in year 2015, there were 954 total cases of HIVAIDS recorded in Caraga region and another 111 cases in 2021, based on the results from the testing centers in the region.

“We are actually advocating for more individuals to undergo testing to know our status. We won’t know

until we have our blood tested for this. We already have satellite hubs here in Caraga like the Butuan Medical Center (BMC), Agusan del Sur, Bislig City, and Surigao City, where they can go and have their blood tested,” said Dr. Cassion.

The government is continuously looking into the needs of those

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

“Part of our advocacy is for people to know about HIV-AIDS so that they would also know that we already have retrovirals, that they can be treated already compared to the previous years wherein many have died due to lack of treatment for the said disease. This time, we already have developed medicines that’s why we’re still able to see those people with HIV until now,” Cassion added.

Dr. Cassion further stressed that the government maintains to uphold confidentiality of these people with HIV-AIDS, so their identity will be protected and prevent them from the stigma of having the disease.

part of our community, and they’re even very productive in terms of contributing to the overall development of our society,” said Dr. Cassion.

“We should lessen the stigma associated with HIV-AIDS. That’s what we really want to see among our citizens realizing that these people are still

Meanwhile, the different sectoral groups also called on the general public to support this advocacy campaign and prevent discrimination with

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

people living with HIVAIDS. “Instead of being reactive with the situation in HIV, let’s be proactive in helping them; in reaching them out because they really needed our support,” said Frank Nicol Megar, public relations officer of SM City Butuan. (JPG/ PIA-Caraga)

5

News Briefs The different sectors in Caraga region are gathered this afternoon at the 3rd Floor of SM City Butuan for the Philippine International AIDS Candlelight Memorial 2022. The Department of Health (DOH) and other government agencies are also actively participating in the said event. This is the first time that said activity was conducted inside the mall in Butuan City. xx

MAGPA-RESBAKUNA AT BOOSTER SHOT NA! As of May 1, nasa 146,869,397 na dosis na ng bakuna ang nagbigay proteksyon! 0.07% lamang sa mga dosis na naibahagi na ay mayroong reaksyon/sintomas sa mga nabakunahan. Karamihan ay mild na sintomas lamang! 99.93% naman ng mga nabakunahan ay walang naiulat na reaksyon/sintomas! Lahat ng mga bakuna na ginagamit sa bansa ay ligtas, epektibo, at libre! Samasama tayo sa BIDA Bakunation! (DOH) #RESBAKUNA #BIDASolusyonPlus #BIDAangMayDisiplina (PUBLIC ADVISORY) The Municipality of Carrascal, Surigao del Sur will strictly implement Executive Order No. 05 Series of 2020, and Municipal Ordinance No. 31 Series of 2021 to heighten its measures against the African Swine Fever (ASF).

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Caraga, together with the local government of Butuan, and business sector led the ceremonial ribbon-cutting of today’s launching of the Buy Caraga By Caraga at SM City Mall in Butuan City.

REGIONAL NEWS

Army reservists lead series of clean-up drive in Caraga Region

To support the government’s effort in restoring cleanliness after the recently concluded national and local elections, the 15th Regional Community Defense Group (15RCDG) with the supervision of Colonel Diosdado E. Peji, group commander, directed its four Community Defense Centers (CDCs) to conduct series of clean-up drive in their respective areas of responsibility on May 13 and 14, 2022.

8

The personnel and Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) cadets under the 1501st Community Defense Center (CDC) removed/dismantled the campaign materials/ paraphernalia postings from Barangay Tolosa to Barangay Syete, Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte.

Reservists of 1502 Ready Reserve Infantry Battalion and ROTC cadets from Saint Francis Xavier College

(SFXC), Philippine Normal University (PNU), and Agusan del Sur State College of Agriculture and Technology (ASSCAT) Bunawan Campus with the supervision of 1502nd Community Defense Center, also cleared the campaign ads in public places particularly in the municipalities of Esperanza, Prosperidad and San Francisco, Agusan del Sur. Meanwhile, the personnel of 1503rd

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

Community Defense Center together with the 1503rd Ready Reserve Infantry Battalion and ROTC Cadets from Surigao State College of Technology Claver Campus ROTC unit took down political ads, tarpaulin, and other campaign materials in the municipality of Claver, Surigao del Norte.

The ROTC cadets and Civic Welfare Training Services (CWTS) students of North Eastern Mindanao State University (NEMSU) Main Campus under the supervision of 1504th (Surigao del Sur) Community Defense Center and Office of the National Service Training Program (NSTP) Director, NEMSU conducted ‘Oplan Baklas’ of the banners, stickers and

other paraphernalia posted in public and private properties in Surigao del Sur. A total of 79 sacks of disposed campaign ads were collected.

According to Col. Peji, all recovered election paraphernalia and materials can be recycled by making bags and souvenirs, which could also be

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

used as tokens.

The participation and involvement of the young ROTC cadets to these activities promote civic consciousness, and inculcated to them the ideals of patriotism, nationalism, volunteerism and respond to the needs of their respective communities. (Msg Tayan S. Datumangoda (WAC) PA, 15RCDG/PIACaraga)

9

NNC Caraga now a CPD provider continuing promotion and strengthening of professional development for all regulated professions which aims to upgrade the practice of professions in the country.

The Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) provides that a CPD provider shall apply for accreditation of its program to the CPD Council.

In its letter received on May 13, 2022, the Philippine Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) granted accreditation to the National Nutrition Council (NNC) Caraga as Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Provider for Caraga Region.

The accreditation granted NNC Caraga the authority to conduct trainings, seminars and fora with corresponding CPD units for a number of professions upon

10

proper application with the PRC. Programs and courses to be offered with CPD units includes, but not limited to, Nutrition Program Management (NPM) Training, Local Nutrition Action Planning (LNAP) Workshop, and Nutrition in Emergencies-Information Management (NIE-IM) Training.

Republic Act No. 10912 known as the Continuing Professional Development Act of 2016, mandates the

In-house training programs and capacitybuilding activities can now be offered with appropriate CPD units that participants will receive as proof of continuing professional development, a requirement for the renewal of licenses of the professionals.

NNC Caraga is now complying with the documentary and other necessary requirements for the offering of programs and courses with CPD units. (RPOchavo, NNCCaraga/PIA-Caraga)

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

NSTP students participate in “Oplan Linis” The 1501st Community Defense Center of the Reserve Command, Philippine Army, together with the National Service Training Program (NSTP) students composed of Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) Cadets and Civic Welfare Training Service (CWTS) students of Caraga State University (CSU), Saint Michael College of Caraga (SMCC) and Northern Mindanao Colleges Incorporated (NMCI) actively participated in the simultaneous cleanup drive held Thursday, May 14, at Barangays 6, 7 and Tolosa, all of Cabadbaran City, and conduct clearing of Barangay Bit-os in Butuan posters and other City. campaign materials used during the recently According to Major concluded national and Frances Belarmino, local elections in schools director of 1501st CDC, and public places,” said the activity is in line Maj. Belarmino. with the “Oplan Linis” of the 15th Regional Belarmino added that Community Defense the clean-up drive was Group (15RCDG) with also initiated as a way the theme, “Tulong to promote nationalism ng Kabataan Para sa among the youth and Bayan”. their simple way to contribute to nation“This activity aims to building.

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

The clean-up drive is in collaboration with Sgt. Rachel Saladaga (Reserve), NSTP director of SMCC; Sgt. Jasfer Jay Famador (Reserve), the NMCI NSTP director; and the corps of cadets of CSU- ROTC Unit.

Present also during the activity are some members of the Corps of Professors. (1501st CDC, 15RCDG/PIACaraga)

11

RTWPB Caraga conducts Public Hearings on Minimum Wage Adjustment

Seven Caraga FCA gets E-Kadiwa Financial Grant from DA

group, media and from the government.

Relevant topics of the minimum wage adjustments were discussed, participants were given time to speak and voice out their views and suggestion on minimum wage adjustment.

Atty. Joffrey M. Suyao

The Regional Tripartite Wages & Productivity Board (RTWPB) Caraga has conducted series of Public Hearings on the Minimum Wage Adjustment in the different provinces of the region.

Department of Labor and employment (DOLE) Caraga Regional Director and RTWPB Caraga Chairperson, Atty. Joffrey M. Suyao stressed the importance of the activity in the wage fixing mandate of the Board. “You as our stakeholders must participate and I encouraged you our dear participants since

12

it’s your voice we want to hear especially in the matter related to wage adjustment.

The Board will be so grateful to you if you can suggest anything which you believe can help us to consider in the deliberation in setting/ fixing our new minimum wage order in the region,” director Suyao said.

All the public hearings in the provinces of Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Norte, and Surigao del Sur were participated by all representatives from the different labor sectors, corporate management

The Board believed that after the process, we will achieve positive and acceptable outcome from both the labor and employer sectors.

The conduct of the said activity was agreed by the Board during the previous board meeting to have it in motu proprio or in its own initiative, following the guidelines of the minimum wage fixing, the issued minimum wage can be reviewed after the lapse of one year from its effectivity and it can be done by either thru petition or motu proprio.

(Sara Mae C. Dahuyla, RTWPB Caraga/PIACaraga)

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

The Department of Agriculture – Caraga through its Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD) turned over a P5.8 million financial grant to seven (7) Farmers Cooperative and Associations (FCAs) under the program Enhanced Kadiwa Financial Grant, on May 16, 2022 at Grand Palace Hotel, Butuan City.

The Enhanced Kadiwa ni Ani at Kita Financial Grant Assistance Program aims to help farmers and fisherfolk groups become more reliable food commodity

suppliers to customers, as well as the communitybased organizations to sustainably operate their Kadiwa stores by providing them additional capital.

P1,500,000.00 3. San Isidro Parish Binucayan Area Farmers MultiPurpose Cooperative (SIPBAFAMCO) Binucayan, Loreto, Agusan del Sur A total amount of P1,500,000.00 P5,804,400.00 were given 4. Claver Red Mountain to the following financial Agriculture Cooperative grant beneficiaries under (CREMACO) - Daywan, the Enhanced Kadiwa Claver, Surigao del Norte Financial Grant: - P400,000.00 5. Alipao Multipurpose 1. San Isidro Upland Cooperative (ALMUCO) Farmers Multi-Purpose - Alipao, Alegria, Surigao Cooperative - Santiago, del Norte - P611,400.00 Agusan del Norte 6. Trinidad Agrarian P400,000.00 Reform Beneficiaries 2. Kinabugawan Farmers Cooperative (TARBECO) Producers Cooperative - Trinidad, Surigao City, (KIFAPCO) - Sta. Emelia, Surigao del Norte Veruela, Agusan del Sur - P993,000.00

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

13

7. Ang Kahugpungan Alang sa Kalambuang Agraryo ARB Cooperative - Sta. Cruz, Loreto, Province of Dinagat Islands P400,000.00

Farmer Director Christopher Lindo also said that the department has always rendered maximum effort in helping and supporting the FCAs in their challenges and areas of Beneficiaries can choose need. what type of grant is needed in their FCA. “Knowing that some They can choose the of these FCAs reside in Grant for Processing far-flung places with no and Packaging network coverage or Facilities; Grant for mobile data connection, Market Logistics and it is a reflection that the Post-harvest; Grant agency and its workers for Kadiwa retail and go beyond what is distribution; and Grant mandated to them for the establishment of just to provide these Kadiwa store. farmers the interventions and assistance they Regional Executive deserved,” Lindo said.

Director Engr. Ricardo M. Oñate, Jr said One of the recipients the mandate of the of this year’s E-kadiwa agency is to create is the Trinidad Agrarian an atmosphere that Reform Beneficiaries uplifts the cooperatives Cooperative (TARBECO) and associations but from Surigao City, Does Not affect the Agusan del Norte with small-scale farmers and 120 active members. fisherfolks.

Lilibeth Arce, its “Our goal here is to chairperson, said, the create a partnership so grant worth P993,000.00 that no farmer will be will be used for storage left behind, that is why and warehouse the programs of DA, big establishment. or small programs, must always be congruent to “One of the problems the programs of each that we faced in our LGU,” RED Oñate added. group is the disposal of

14

our products. Through this warehouse, we can store all of our products in one convenient place” Arce said.

DILG Caraga now in full blast in LGU Assessment for 2022 SGLG

Robustiano Patayon, Jr., Chairperson of Ang Kahugpungan Alang sa Kalambuang Agraryo ARB Cooperative from Loreto, Dinagat Islands also said that their grant worth P400,000.00 will be used for procurement of transport and delivery vehicles.

“Transportation cost is really a problem in our group and by purchasing delivery vehicles, our expenses will be lesser and our products will reach the market easier and faster,” Patayon said.

RED Engr. Ricardo M. Oñate together with Farmer Director Christopher Lindo, RTD Rebecca Atega, AMAD Chief Lynn Pareñas, OICFOD Melody Guimary, Market Specialist Marilou Gruyal, and HVCDP Coordinator Marco Morido personally handed the checks and certificates to the seven beneficiaries. (Kent Warren H. Fugoso, DACaraga/PIA-Caraga)

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) – Caraga is now in full blast in assessing the performance of Local Government Units (LGUs) in the region for the 2022 Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG).

towards good local governance. It is both a symbol and responsibility to relentlessly uphold the principles of accountability, honesty, transparency, service and sustainable development in local government units.

scaled implementation in raising the SGLG’s Bar of Excellence in measuring the performances of Local Government Units (LGUs) from Seven (7) to Ten (10) Governance Areas:

1. Financial Taking off from the Administration All seventy-eight (78) LGUs previous SGLG Assessment 2. Disaster Preparedness in the region are being way back in 2019, as year 3. Social Protection and assessed for this first year’s 2020 SGLG Assessment Sensitivity Programs full-blown implementation was officially suspended 4. Safety, Peace and of Republic Act No. 11292, because of the grueling Order known as the SGLG Act of challenges of the 5. Business-Friendliness 2019 para sa Pagkilala sa coronavirus disease-2019 and Competitiveness Katapatan at Kahusayan (COVID-19) pandemic, 6. Environmental ng Pamahalaang Lokal. while year 2021 was the Management year of the SGLG Pilot 7. Tourism, Heritage The Seal is a recognition Field Test, this year carries Development, Culture for the LGU’s journey on the first year of upand Arts Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

15

The LGU assessment conducted by the Regional Assessment Teams (RATs) has started from the 3rdweek of April until the 3rd week of May, 2022. Regional Calibration and shortlisting of potential passers will be conducted on May 23-24, 2022. Potential Passers will be submitted to DILG Central Office and re-calibrated in the national level by August or September this year.

8. Programs for Sustainable Education(new) 9. Health Compliance and Responsiveness(new) 10. Youth Development(new) The Seal now shifts its focus to resultsbased parameters that would influence behavioral change.

This will include outputoutcome indicators and accountability from supervising LGUs, such as provincial government’s supervision over its component cities and municipalities, and cities / municipalities’ supervision over barangays. The SGLG Act also encourages our LGUs to facilitate a holistic approach to

16

development by passing all ten (10) Governance Areas.

LGUs must be “ALL-IN” by passing all the ten (10) assessment areas, otherwise, they will not get the Seal or fail in the Assessment.

Another highlight of this year’s SGLG Assessment is that in order for a Province to qualify, it must, at least ten percent (10%) of its component cities and municipalities, be SGLG passers. Otherwise, even if it has passed all ten (10) Governance Areas, but if it fails to meet at least 10% of its component Cities / Municipalities as passers thereof, it cannot qualify to receive the Seal.

This year’s LGU Awardees or SGLG Recipients are eligible to the SGLG Incentive Fund (SGLG-IF), formerly known as the Performance Challenge Fund (PCF), to finance local development initiatives in furtherance of national goals and strategic thrusts.

As LGUs hustle through the rigorous process of SGLG Assessment, DILG ensures that this SGLG Assessment sticks to the principles of upholding transparency and accountability as there will be lots of documents to go through as well as many considerations and forms to accomplish.

(LGOO VI Florian Faith Jr. P. Bayawa, DILG XIII/PIACaraga)

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

COMELEC Caraga tiniyak na mas magiging maayos at organisado ang barangay election sa Disyembre nagreklamo din na natigil sandali ang pagboto sa precinct dahil nagbreak muna ang mga electoral board. Tao din naman sila kailangan din nilang kumain,” paliwanag ni Atty. Samson.

Ni Jennifer P. Gaitano

Samson

Dahil sa mga isyu at concerns na natanggap ng Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Caraga mula sa iilang botante sa katatapos lang na May 9, 2022 National at Local Elections, mas pinaghahandaan na ng ahensya ang gaganaping Barangay Election sa Disyembre.

Ayon kay Atty. Geraldine Samson, assistant regional election director, maliban sa mga naireport na depektibong vote-counting machines

(VCM) at SD cards mula sa iilang polling precincts, ang mahabang pila pagpasok sa polling centers dahil sa health protocol ang naging reklamo ng mga botante.

“Hahaba talaga ang pila dahil isang entrance lang meron kada polling center dahil sa may health protocols pang kailangan i-observe ng mga botante bago makapasok, at isang exit lang din. Hindi tulad nuong wala pang pandemic na marami tayong binuksan na entrance gates. May

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

Dahil dito, nanawagan ang opisyal sa mga botante na ipagbigayalam lamang sa kanilang ahensiya ang ilan pang concerns sa pagboto para agad na matugunan.

Hinikayat din niya ang iba pang hindi botante o deactivated na ang account na magparehistro sa pagbabalik ng voter registration sa Hulyo.

“Malaking tulong po ang inyong ipinaabot na concern sa aming ahensiya upang matugunan po agad natin ang mga ito.

Umaasa po tayo na magiging maayos din ang gagawing Barangay Election sa December 2022,” ani ni Atty. Samson.

(JPG/PIA-Caraga)

17

COMELEC Caraga binigyang-pugay ang probinsya ng Dinagat Islands na pinaka-unang nakapag transmit ng election ballot results Ni Jennifer P. Gaitano

Pinuri ng Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Caraga ang probinsya ng Dinagat Islands dahil sa pinaka-una ito sa lahat ng probinsya sa rehiyon na nakapag-transmit ng election ballot results.

Ito ay kahit pa marami sa mga island barangay nito ay walang signal at untiunti pang bumabangon matapos masalanta ng bagyong Odette.

Ibinahagi ni Atty. Geraldine Samson, assistant regional election director, na alassiete palang ng gabi noong May 9 ay nakapagpadala na agad ang nasabing probinsya ng ballot results.

“Nakita naming na talagang aktibo ang ating mga kasamahan sa COMELEC sa Dinagat Islands kasama ang mga ahensya ng gobyerno at iba pang sector doon,” sabi niya.

Ayon naman kay Atty. Ernie Palanan, provincial election supervisor ng Dinagat Islands, ilang buwan bago ang May 2022 national at local elections ay puspusan na ang kanilang pagpaplano

18

kasama ang Philippine National Police (PNP), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), at iba pang law enforcement agencies.

Ito ay upang masigurong maayos, organisado, at ligtas ang pagboto ng mga 81,088 registered voters sa probinsya.

Inalam din nila ang sitwasyon ng mga eskwelahan, maging ang linya ng kuryente at internet connection sa lugar, lalo’t unti-unti pang bumabangon ang probinsya mula sa pinsalang dulot ng bagyong Odette. Naglaan din aniya sila ng tig-iisang pumpboat kada island barangay upang madeliver ang mga vote-counting machines at iba pang election paraphernalia.

“Sa tulong ng Philippine National Police at Philippine Army, chineck talaga namin ang mga barangay para malaman ang mga isyu at concern para agad mahanapan ng paraan at matiyak na walang magiging problema sa araw mismo ng election. May mga lugar na walang signal at internet

Palanan

connection kaya nag-isip na kami agad ng ibang paraan kung papaano ang pagtransmit ng results,” banggit ni Palanan.

Wala rin aniyang naitala na election-related incident sa lugar.

Laking pasalamat din ni Palanan sa iba’t-ibang sektor na tumulong upang maging madali ang buong proseso ng pagboto at agad maipadala lahat ng election results mula sa mga polling centers ng mga barangay sa nasabing probinsya.

“Maraming salamat sa lahat ng ating law enforcement agencies lalo na ang PNP at Philippine Army na talagang aktibo sa pagmonitor ng peace and order sa mga island barangays,” ani ni Palanan. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Renunciation of rebels continues, NPA Vice TL yields

AgSur stakeholders joined in Oplan Linis

number.

According to Agusan del Sur police report, alias Jasper was recruited by the rebel group and a red fighter for eight years, promising monthly financial assistance for his family.

Based on the report, since the assumption of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, a total of 1,433 communist members have surrendered to Caraga police. The With President Rodrigo Pampropaganda (SYP), PNP is hoping for more Roa Duterte’s remaining Platoon 1, Dismantled number of rebels to days of his term, Guerilla Front (DGF) 88, his strong directive North Central Mindanao surrender in PNP Caraga as the term of the against anti-insurgency Regional Committee Commander-in-Chief will continues, resulting in (NCMRC). the surrender of the New Accordingly, the lies and soon end.

People’s Army (NPA) broken promises of the Alias Jasper is currently Vice Team Leader on rebels prompted him to May 13, 2022. lay down his arms to the undergoing debriefing/ interview by the government. personnel of ADS PIU Police Brigadier General Romeo M Caramat, Jr., Alias Jasper yielded for possible enrollment PRO13 Director, revealed to Agusan del Sur in the Enhanced that the surrenderer Police Provincial Office Comprehensive Local known to be the Vice Intelligence Unit and Integration Program Team Leader was San Luis Municipal Police (E-CLIP). (PMaj Dorothy identified as alias Jasper, Station and handed over Tumulak, PIO, PNP25 years old, from Squad one unit Cal. 38 revolvers Caraga/ PIA-Agusan del 1, Sandatahang Yunit with defaced serial Sur)

20

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

Various stakeholders actively took part during the conduct of ‘Oplan Linis’ in the province of Agusan del Sur. The 1502 Community Defense Center led

by Second Lieutenant Adones L. Apilada, Executive Officer, coordinated with Atty.

Alvin Prandy T. Canta, Provincial Election Supervisor III of Agusan del Sur in line with the conduct of clean-up drive in schools and other public places with postings of tarpaulins of candidates during the recently conducted National and Local Elections 2022.

This is an activity initiated

by the 15th Regional Community Defense Center (15RCDG) dubbed as “Oplan Linis” with the theme “Tulong ng Kabataan Para sa Bayan”.

The said event also encouraged the young people to care of the community by conducting relevant activities that will benefit the majority of the populace.

Meanwhile Lieutenant Colonel Ma Teresa P. Baylon, Battalion Commander of 1502nd Ready Reserve Infantry Battalion coordinated with the Local Chief Executive of Prosperidad and other line agencies.

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

While Private FirstClass Ariel J. Daguimol, Operation NonCommission Officer of 1502 CDC coordinated with Mr. Fredericko Blanco, Election Officer, Municipality of San Francisco, Agusan del Sur, to ensure the success of said event.

This activity was participated by the Reservists of 1502 (RRIBn), Reserve Officer Training Corp (ROTC) Cadets and Civic Welfare Training Service (CWTS) students to promote the spirit of voluntarism in support to nation-building. (2Lt Adones L. Apilada, Ex-O of 1502 CDC/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

21

DPWH improves access road to white sand beaches in SurSur town, more visitors expected to come this summer

Carrascal town implements stricter measures against ASF

The project involves road upgrading (unpaved to paved) of 1.10 kilometers of road with the construction of 60.00 l.m. bridge and provision of drainage and slope protection.

Summer is more fun for beach lovers now that the access road to one of the white sand beaches in Lianga, Surigao del Sur is being improved by the Department of Public Works and Highways Regional Office XIII. Residents and visitors praised the DPWH for the ongoing construction of roads and bridge in NRJ – Sitio Cansoan – Ganayon leading to White Sand Beach in Lianga Town because going to the beach will soon be easier and faster.

The project is programmed in 2021-2022 budget allocation with a total of Php 182,190,000.00.

According to Regional Director Pol M. Delos Santos,

22

Surigao del Sur is known to have beautiful beaches and tourist spots. Once the project is complete, it will attract and open many opportunities, the first budget amounting such as increasing tourist of Php 126,598,336.60 was released under Regular Infra arrivals, boosting tourism in the municipality, and, FY 2021. The project is now progressing, with scheduled eventually, providing employment and income accomplishment of 51.44% to its people. as of April 30, 2022.

Meanwhile, the contract for the continuation of the project under FY 2022 is also underway.

“We are fast-tracking this so that people can enjoy their summer now that restrictions to COVID-19 are loosened”, Regional Director Pol M. Delos Santos explained.

“Beachgoers will no longer walk the 1-kilometer small pathway because vehicles will soon have access towards the beach resort areas”, he added.

It is a welcomed addition to the infrastructure development in the Municipality of Lianga since the Local Government of Surigao del Sur envisions the province to become the Tourism Hub in Caraga due to its numerous tourist destinations, and the Regional Development Council (RDC) is keener in making the vision a reality because it is integral to the long-term developmental goal of the region. (DPWHCaraga/PIA Surigao del Sur)

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

The Municipality of Carrascal, Surigao del Sur will strictly implement Executive Order No. 05 Series of 2020, and Municipal Ordinance No. 31 Series of 2021 to its heightened measures against the African Swine Fever (ASF).

Accordingly, All Live Hogs, Pork, Processed Pork Products, Pork Byproducts, and Boar Semen coming from the municipality of Cantilan, and other ASF affected

municipalities and cities will be temporarily banned to enter the said municipality.

said ordinance or executive order will be apprehended by the local authorities.

The public is advised to report any illegal entry of the abovementioned products to the Municipal Agriculture Office immediately for appropriate action.

It can be recalled, that the Department of Agriculture confirmed that blood samples from Barangay Parang, in Cantilan town tested positive for African Swine Fever (ASF) last week.

At present, there is no vaccine or treatment for ASF, it was learned.

(LGU-Carrascal/PIASurigao del Sur)

It will be confiscated thereafter validation when proven, and the owner or seller who will violate the

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

23

1,734 farmers benefit one-stop-shop in Cantilan town

SurSur Rep Pimentel has 73 House Measures enacted into law By: Grace P.Barcena

Incumbent and reelected Surigao del Sur 2nd District Representative Johnny Ty Pimentel has 73 of his House Measures enacted into law.

Cong. Pimentel was the principal author of the 266 House Measures, while 336 House Measures filed were co-authored by him.

Photo credit to LGU-Cantilan, SDS

Some 1,734 rice farmers were served and benefitted from different programs extended to them by the national government thru the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the local government unit of Cantilan (LGU-Cantilan).

Based on the report, the LGU through the Municipal Agriculture Office (MAO) headed by Ceasar Q. Blanco, successfully implemented the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF), a Seed Component Program of the DA that aimed to

24

reduce the production cost of rice farmers by providing high-quality seeds such as NSIC Rc160, Rc216, and Rc442.

Meanwhile, on May 17, the LGU-Cantilan spearheaded the provision of one-peso incentives, the second payout to 147 rice farmers through its initiative on the “Fresh The insurance of the Palay Subsidy Program” crops and the Rice to augment farmers’ Crop Manager (RCM) information dissemination low income brought by low farm gate prices of are included in the fresh palay. The LGU has one-stop shop. The allocated the amount of RCM accordingly, P1,656,654.00 for the said provided farmers with program. field-specific crop and nutrient management The schedule for the next recommendations for batch of payout is set for their rice field through a May 23, 2022, Monday at one-page printout and the Cantilan Gymnasium, text messages to the it was learned. (NGPB/ farmer’s phone.

PIA-Surigao del Sur) Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

As Representative from Surigao del Sur Pimentel has chaired the Special Committee on Strategic Intelligence since December 7, 2020.

Representative Pimentel was also holding a former Deputy Speaker from CY 2019 to 2020, Chairperson of the Congressional Oversight Committee on Tax Reform, Assistant Majority Leader, and Chaired the Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability.

Republic Act No. 11709, which fixes the term of the key Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) officials and increases their retirement age, and Republic Act No. 11691, the law creating the Philippine Judiciary Marshals were among lthe laws Representative Pimentel has principally authored.

RA No. 11691 allows a

separate and distinct security force that protects officials Judiciary, and court properties, while RA No. 11709, fixes the term of the key Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) officials and increases their retirement age, it was learned.

“RA No. 11909 seeks to cater continuity in our armed forces giving AFP chiefs more time to carry out reforms under their leadership,” the representative stated in a press statement.

Pimentel served as Governor of Surigao del Sur in 2010 to 2016. He first won a seat in the House of Representatives in 2016, secured a second term in 2019, and won his last term in this year’s National and Local Elections.

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

Meanwhile, Congressman Pimentel is one among the seven House delegates who shall serve as the canvassers of the votes of the President and Vice President. This Constitutional duty will be carried out upon Congress’ resumption of session on May 23, 2022.

Majority Leader Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, Deputy Speaker Juan Pablo “Rimpy” Bondoc, and Representatives Johnny Pimentel, Manuel Jose “Mannix” Dalipe, Jesus Crispin Remulla, Juliet Marie de Leon Ferrer, Stella Luz Quimbo, and Sharon Garin attended the briefing in preparation for the resumption and a joint session scheduled next week.

(PIA-Surigao del Sur)

25

DOLE releases P43M TUPAD salaries to 13K individuals in SurSur

The Department of Labor and Employment Surigao del Sur Field Office (DOLE-SDS FO) released the salaries for the first quarter of 2022 amounting to P43,523,200.00 for the successful implementation of the department’s TUPAD or Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/ Displaced Workers Program.

Some 13,601 TUPAD beneficiaries from six (6) various municipalities and the city of Bislig received their salaries for their 10 days of work, from April 8 to May 7,

26

2022, in the province.

DOLE-Surigao del Sur Field Office revealed that some of the beneficiaries are coming from the municipalities of Lingig, Hinatuan, Tagbina, and Barobo from the Second District, while Marihatag, and Bayabas from the First District of this province.

The collaborative efforts and proper coordination of the DOLE personnel led by provincial chief Genebelle Bal, with the various local officials of Surigao del Sur as conduits of the program implementation, paved the way for a smooth implementation of the

Ang LGU-Carrascal miduyog sa pagselebrar sa tinuig nga pagsaulog sa Farmers and Fisherfolks Month

TUPAD program in the province.

DOLE TUPAD is a stopgap measure which aims to alleviate the lives of the displaced, poor, and marginalized workers through the provision of emergency employment.

DOLE SDSFO continues to strive for excellence through the successful implementation of the department’s programs which will provide employment opportunities to more Surigaonons. (GPB/ Bernido Maloloy-on, DOLE-SDS/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

Ang lokal nga panggamhanan sa munisipyo sa Carrascal, Surigao del Sur ubos sa administrasyon ni Mayor Vicente H. Pimentel, III miduyog sa tinuig nga kasaulogan sa tibuok nasudang bulan sa mag-uuma kon “Farmers and Fisherfolks Month”.

Pinasikad sa tema nga “Modernisasyon ug Industriyalisasyon Pasingud sa Abunda nga Abot ug Dako na Kita”, ang paggamhanang local sa lungsod sa Carrascal hugtanon nga milaum nga mapahamtang ang mga programa luyo sa pagpaningkamot sa pagbag-o sa sektor

sa agrikultura ngadto sa modernisado ug industriyalisadong pamaagi aron mas makaalagad sa mga mag-uuma ug mangingisda sa maong lungsod.

Subay sa selebrasyon, ang libreng BINHI nga humay alang sa tanang mga mag uuma nga aktibo sa pagpananom og humay ang gipang-apod apod.

Ang libreng binhi sumala pa sa taho gikan sa Department of Agriculture - Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEP) nga programa.

Sumala pa sa buhatan sa Municipal Agriculture Office nga gipamunuan

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

ni Municipal Agriculturist Japhet Sugian, gawas sa pagpang-apod apod sa binhi, mihimo usab sila og Registry System for the Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA) registration, nagpasabot og mipadali sa Rice Crop Manager (RCM), insurance coverage sa mga tanom (crops) og mga buhi (livestocks) sa mga mag-uuma, apil na ang pagpang hatag sa mga nagkadaiyang binhe sa mga gulay, og daghang pang serbisyo nga makabenepisyo ang mga mag-uuma.

Ang maong aktibidad molangkob sa tulo (3) ka adlaw gikan Mayo 18-20, 2022 nga ipahigayon sa Panikian Covered Court, Panikian, Carrascal, Surigao del Sur. Sumala pa sa taho nga gikinahanglang magdala ang mga mag-uuma sa bisan unsang government identification card para sa ilang pagkatawo ug endorsement gikan sa ilang presidente sa Farmers Association (FA), basehan aron makapahimulos sa mga programa gikan sa gobyerno. (NGPB/PIASurigao del Sur)

27

DTI AgNor awards Safety Seal certs; monitor prices in Butuan City establishments

standards set and integrates its contact tracing with StaySafe. ph. The DTI will only issue the certification to supermarkets, groceries, convenience stores, membership shopping clubs, construction supply/hardware stores, logistics service providers, barbershops and salons, and service and repair shops if they passed the standards set.

In support to the efforts of the government to protect clients, consumers, and the general public against COVID-19, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Agusan del Norte validated establishments in this city for the Safety Seal Certification and assessed if they continued to adhere to the minimum public health standards set by the government.

On Friday, May 13, DTI Agusan del Norte

28

Photo credit: DTI-Agusan del Norte

provincial director Lorijane Sacote led the turnover of renewed Safety Seal Certifications to Interpace Corporation’s supermarket, hardware, barbershop, and service and repair, and a new certification to Manja Spa and Salon.

According to Sacote, the Safety Seal Certification is a voluntary certification scheme that affirms that an establishment is compliant with the minimum public health

Meanwhile, the DTI Agusan del Norte also continues to monitor the compliance of the Fair Trade Law through the monitoring of establishments in the area.

A weekly price monitoring of the basic necessities and prime commodities was also conducted by the agency. Twenty establishments were monitored by the department recently, all of which were found compliant. (NCLM/PIAAgusan del Norte)

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

Hinungdan sa sayo nga pagbuntis sa kabatan-onan sa Cabadbaran, gibutyag

Sayu nga pagsulod sa seryoso nga relasyon nga miresulta sa pakighilawas ang usa sa mga gikabutyag nga hinungdan sa sayo nga pagmabdos sa mga kabatan-onan sa syudad sa Cabadbaran. Kini ang nasayran sa bag-ohay pa nga gipahigayon nga Program Design Workshop sa Social Protection Program for Adolescent Mothers and their Children.

Pinaagi sa Rapid Appraisal nga gipangunahan sa City Population Office sa Cabadbaran, nasayran nga ang 55 ka mga inahan nga nag edad

18 taman 24 ang nakaagi ug sayo nga pagmabdos isip menor de edad. Gibutyag sa survey nga ang sayo nga pakighilawas ang pinaka unang hinungdan sa ilang sayo nga pagmabdos nga nabutang sa 47%, ikaduha ang sayo nga pag uyab-uyab, 22%, ug ikatulo ang mao daw kini ang ilang pangandoy nga nabutang sa 16%, ikaupat ang problema sa pamilya, 12%, ug ikalima ang sayo nga paghigugma nga nabutang sa 3%.

taman 24. Base sa ilang mga inahan, ang sayo nga pag-uyab uyab ang nag unang hinungdan sa pagkaburos sa ilang mga anak, nga nabutang sa 31%, ikaduha ang dili maminaw sa tambag, 24%, ikatulo ang pagpananghid nga mag module pero uyab ang giatiman nga nabutang sa 14%, pagkalaagan, barkadista, pagkabulag sa pamilya, ug kalisod sa kinabuhi ang mga naulahing hindungdan, matod pa sa survey.

(Gabrielle Paolo M. Mordeno, POPCOM Gi apil usab sa survey Caraga/PIA-Agusan del ang mga batan-ong inahan nga nag edad 18 Norte)

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

29

Caraga natala ang ubos nga AHD sa Q1 - POPCOM

Ang rehiyon sa Caraga nakab-ot lamang ang 4% sa 2022 target niini para sa Adolescent Health and Development demand generation nga adunay 595 nga batan-on, 332 nga mga ginikanan ug significant adults, ug 38 nga mga magtutudlo nga naay kinatubuk-an nga 965 o 4% sa 26,438 nga target sa demand generation ang nag apil sa lain lain nga mga aktibidad sa demand generation nga gipahigayon sa mga rehiyon ug lokal program partners sa 1st quarter tuig 2022.

Ang syudad sa Cabadbaran ang adunay pinakataas nga nakab-ot nga demand generation nga adunay 665 ka mga partisipante, sunod ang Probinsya sa Dinagat Islands nga adunay 161 nga mga

30

partisipante, Surigao del Norte nga adunay 140 nga mga partisipante, Surigao del Sur nga adunay 25 nga partisipante, ug Agusan del Norte nga adunay 16 nga mga partisipante.

gihimong Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health Forum Caravan sa mga Probinsya sa Dinagat Islands ug Surigao del Norte, ilabi na sa mga munisipyo sa San Jose, Libjo, Dapa, Santa Monica, ug Siargao Islands bulan sa Pebrero isip kabahin sa inisyatibo sa POPCOM nga gitawag nga Sexual and Reproductive Health Information Service Delivery in Crisis Situation sa mga naapaktuhan nga komunidad sa bagyon Odette.

Ang mga ginikanan, significant adult ug magtutudlo nga nakabot sa programa resulta sa mga aktibidad sa municipal office sa San Ang kadaugan sa AHD Agustin, Surigao del Sur, program para sa 1st quarter provincial population office tuig 2022 nakab-ot pinaagi sa Agusan del Norte, ug sa padayon nga panagcity population office sa uban sa POPCOM ug mga Cabadbaran. Kini nga lokal nga population offices, mga aktibidad mao ang pagpanindot sa social Presentation of PPDP media platforms sa pagkab- with Local Stakeholders, ot sa mga benepisyaryo, Parenting Education pakpakusog sa among Community Health panaguban sa Civil Society Workers, Lecture on Role Organizations, ug ang of Parents in Educating pagpirma sa Memorandum among PWDs, Lecture of Understanding kauban on Responsible Sexuality ang lokal nga mga partners and Risks of Teenage ug and Kagawaran sa Pregnancy, ug Teenage Edukasyon.

Pregnancy Awareness and Prevention. (Gabrielle Paolo Kadaghanan sa mga M. Mordeno, POPCOM kabatan-onan nga nakabCaraga/PIA-Agusan del ot maoy resulta sa mga Norte) Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

DBM nag aprobar sa DTP sa POPCOM

Ang Commission on Population and Development ug ang Department of Health mao lang ang ahensya sa nasudnong gobyerno nga ang Devolution Transition Plan (DTP) naaprobahan sa Department of Budget and Management (DBM) nga pangunang basehan sa mga local government unit (LGU) DTP per Executive Order (EO) 138, ug iyang IRR. Ang EO 138 nga gipatuman pinaagi sa iyang IRR, DBM-DILG Joint Memorandum Circulars, nagmando ang kompleto nga debolusyon sa mga nag-unang serbisyo

ug pasilidad gikan sa nasudnong ahensya padulong sa mga LGUs, lakip niini ang nadungagan na bahin sa LGUs sa tanang buhis ug mga kita sa nasyonal na lebel.

Si POPCOM Caraga Regional Director, Alexander A. Makinano, nagpresentar sa naaprobahang DTP sa ahensya atol sa face-to-face meeting nga gipahigayon sa Development Administration Committee sa Provincial Development Council sa Agusan del Norte kaniadtong Mayo 2, 2022. Matud ni Director Makinano

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

na ang POPCOM DTP gaawhag sa mga LGUs na magtukod og Population and Development (POPDEV) office, o e-upgrade ang kasamtangang istruktura para sa hingpit na pagassume sa gitugyan na family planning, POPDEV services ug ang mga programa para sa kaayohan ug kalamboan sa mga kabatan-onan.

Ang pag aprobar sa DTP sa POPCOM ipaambit ug ipakaylap sa mga LGUs isip basehan sa ilang pag preparar sa ilang kaugalingon na DTPs. (Dian Joy L. Martinez, POPCOM Caraga/PIA Agusan del Norte)

31

POPCOM, LGUs mutonol og hinabang binulan sa mga batan-ong inahan

Ang mga batan-ong inahan ug ang ilang mga anak kansa gikan sa siyudad sa Butuan ug Cabadbaran, Agusan del Norte, makadawat og tabang pinansyal gikan sa gobyerno.

Ang maong pinansyal na tabang ihatag pinaagi sa pagpatuman sa Social Protection Program for Adolescent Mothers and their Children (SPPAMC).

Ang Commission on Population and Development, Department of Social Welfare and Development, ug ang LGU Butuan ug

32

Cabadbaran maghatag og 500 pesos nga binulan na pinansyal na tabang sa mga napili nga batan-ong inahan nga naila pinaagi sa pagprofile ug pagtahas na aktibidadies sa giingon na mga LGU isip suporta sa personal nga kalamboan ug mga tumong sa mga batanong inahan. Ang binulan nga hinabang itunol human sila ug ang ilang mga anak makabisita sa health center ug makatambong sa kalihokan sa SPPAMC. Kini nasayran human ang POPCOM Caraga nagpahigayon ug tulo

ka adlaw na Program Design Workshop on SPPAMC alang sa mga pilot LGUs nga mag implementar sa mapuslanon nga laraw bag-ohay pa lang.

Ang POPCOM Caraga ug ang siyudad sa Butuan ug Cabadbaran nakaila sa importante nga papel sa mga kabatan-onan sa lokal nga kalamboan samtang nagkomit sa promosyon sa kaayohan ug holistic growth isip prioridad sa mga kalamboan na plano.

(Dian Joy L. Martinez, POPCOM Caraga/PIA Agusan del Norte)

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

POPCOM Caraga ug LGU giserbisyuan ang GIDA Ang Commission on Population and Development – Caraga nagpadayon sa ilang tumong nga ang mga magtiayon ug indibidwal bisan pa kadtong naa sa hilit nga dapit, GIDA(Geographically Isolated an d Disadvantaged Areas), matagaan sa mga impormasyon ug serbisyo kabahin sa responsible parenthood, family planning, ug reproductive health.

Ang POPCOM Caraga uban ang Rural Health Unit and Family Planning Office of Nasipit, Agusan del Norte nagpahigayon ug medical mission sa Sitio Baboy-baboy, Brgy.

Camagong, Nasipit, Agusan del Norte.

Taliwala sa mga hagit sa geograpikanhong kahimtang sa giingong barangay sitio, ug kahimtang sa panahon, ang adbokasiya ug serbisyong probisyon para sa Responsible Parenthood and Family Planning (RP-FP) na aktibidad malampuson

nga gipahigayon.

Adunay 20 ka babaeng indibidwal ang gitambagan kabahin sa Family Planning methods.

Taliwala niini, 15 ka mga babaeng indibidwal ang malampusong naserbisyohan og Progestine-only SubDermal Implant (PSI).

Samtang adunay 5 ang nahimbal-ang buros

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

paghuman ug pagsulay sa pregnancy test.

Ang POPCOM Caraga masaligon na walay pagsulay nga makabalda sa hilisgotan sa Responsibpe Parenthood ug Family Planning sa rehiyon.

(Dian Joy L. Martinez, POPCOM Caraga/PIA Agusan del Norte)

33

DOST implements ecotourism and disaster resilience program in Siargao Island

34

As a strong partner of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in bringing science closer to the people in Siargao Island, the Local Government of Del Carmen has continuously supported the municipality towards inclusive and sustainable growth through sciencebased governance.

response for poverty alleviation in a small island setting through adoption of appropriate technologies and engagement of STI stakeholders: The Inclusive Science and Technology for Livable, Sustainable and Adaptable Small Island Ecotourism (Project ISLA) Framework.

To support the LGU’s development priorities, DOST-Caraga through its Provincial Science and Technology Center – Surigao del Norte designed an S&T

Aligned with the strategic direction of the framework, LGUDel Carmen signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with DOST and Surigao State

College of Technology through its Del Carmen Campus (SSCT-Del Carmen) for the project “Science Interventions for Small Island Ecotourism Development and Disaster Resilience (SISIED)” which aims to implement Ecotourism and Disaster Resilience Program in Siargao Island that will ensure food security while reinforcing the tourism industry through the development of innovative functional food products and zero reported waterborne related diseases. The

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

program has two component projects: 1) Leveraging Product Development and Innovation in Small Island through the Establishment of an AgriFishery Processing and Food Innovation Center for the Advancement of Siargao’s Tourism Industry 2) Project ReFILL: Strengthening Disaster Resiliency in Small Island Communities through the Establishment of a Multistage Water Filtration and Purification Facility.

DOST-Caraga will grant the equipment and technologies for the establishment of

the abovementioned S&T facilities as part of the post-disaster rehabilitation and recovery initiatives of the office in Siargao Island.

An Action Planning for the SISIED Program is set to be conducted with the project stakeholders today, May 16, 2022.

During the Ceremonial MOA Signing, DOST, SSCT, and LGU-Del Carmen also entered into another binding agreement for the “Upgrading of the Water Testing Laboratory in Siargao Island through Service Expansion”, Phase II of the project “Establishment of a Water Testing Laboratory

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

in Siargao Island” for the full operation of the Microbiological and Physico-Chemical Laboratories this CY 2022.

The establishment of the Water Testing Laboratory aims to ensure that water in Siargao Island is effectively monitored, assessed and tested to warrant the elimination or control of waterborne illnesses for a reliable water source.

To know more about S&T programs in Siargao Island, follow and like the official Facebook page of Department of Science and Technology - Surigao del Norte.

(DOST- Surigao del Norte/PIA- Surigao del Norte)

35

Cassava Processing Facility soon to rise in GIDCA community in Gigaquit town

In response to Executive Order No. 70 and as member of the Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC), the Department of Science and Technology – Caraga through its Provincial Science and Technology Center in Surigao del Norte, in partnership with the Local Government of Gigaquit and the Philippine Root Crops Research and Training Center (PhilRootcrops), granted the processing equipment and machineries to Soksokon Coconut Farmers Association (SOCOFAAS).

The granting of said equipment aims to jumpstart the

36

establishment of a Cassava Processing Facility – a local microenterprise focusing on the utilization of cassava tubers into byproducts to empower and boost the socioeconomic development of the people of Gigaquit particularly in Sitio Soksokon, Brgy. Camamonan, a geographically isolated, disadvantaged, and conflict-affected community (GIDCA) in the province.

The provision of equipment is one of the components of the collaborative project to transform the community to become resilient, peaceful, and competitive. The

project, amounting to P1 million pesos is funded under the Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) Program of DOST which primarily aims to alleviate poverty in remote communities through provision and transfer of technologybased livelihood projects to the most vulnerable communities.

Following the delivery of the machineries, a manpower training for the production process and equipment operation is set to be conducted in June 2022. DOST continues to bring science closer to the people even for those living in the farflung communities of the country.

To know more about the DOST’s S&T programs within the local communities in the province, follow and like the official Facebook page Department of Science and Technology Surigao del Norte. (DOSTSDN/PIA- Surigao del Norte)

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

LGU Surigao Norte presents Agri-Fisheries plan to DA Caraga To further boost the agrifisheries development in the province, the local government unit of Surigao del Norte resently presented its Collaborative Provincial Agriculture and Fisheries Extension Plan (CPAFEP) to the Department of Agriculture in Surigao City.

The plan is an offshoot from the input from city and municipalities in the province in line with the implementation of the Provincial-led Agriculture and Fisheries Extension Systems (PAFES).

The CPAFEP of the province covered various agri-fishery commodities such as corn, rice, high value crops, fisheries, and livestock.

Representatives from DA-Caraga’s banner programs, Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority, Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation,

and academe review the plan and give their comments and suggestions for inclusion prior to its final plan packaging.

Ruby Ann Lagahit and Provincial Veterinary Office headed by Provincial Veterinarian Life Shiela Cubillanes of Surigao del Norte for actively spearheaded the respective municipal and city LGUs in coming up with the said plan for the advancement of the agri-fishery sector of the province.

Rebecca Reyes Atega, Regional Technical Director for Operations of DA-Caraga said that the plan will be the basis for DA and other attached agencies for the co-financing scheme PAFES is embodied in with the respective local this collaboration, the government units. first pillar of the OneDA Reform Agenda with 18 Fil Victor Babanto, OIC key strategies laid out by Center Director of ATISecretary William D. Dar Caraga commended for the transformation of the Provincial Agriculture the Philippine Agriculture.

Office headed by (DA- Caraga/PIAProvincial Agriculturist Surigao del Norte)

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

37

DTI Dinagat Islands intensify its monitoring on prices of basic necessities and prime commodities

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in the Province of Dinagat Islands through the Consumer Protection Unit has intensified its monitoring on prices of basic neccesities and prime commodities to protect the consumers in Basilisa town of the said province.

DTI Dinagat Islands Provincial Director Elmer Natad said

38

the prices of basic necessities and prime commodites remain stable, and supply is still adequate in the municipality of Basilisa, Dinagat Islands, during its monthly monitoring conducted by the Consumer Protection Unit of DTI- Dinagat Islands.

He said during the inspection, price tags were checked to ensure price fairness for all consumers, and for product standards monitoring, they surveyed seven establishments and found to be compliant with Product Standards.

Natad added, that all the stores/ establishments were provided with information materials, namely, a list of products under mandatory certification, a guide table of steel bars standards, and required markings There are two leading of construction materials. (Susil D. grocery stores being Ragas- PIA Dinagat monitored monthly Islands/DTI- Dinagat in Brgy. Tag- abaca, Islands) Basilisa town.

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

LGU Dinagat Islands, IOM pormal nga mi turn over sa model house ubos sa programang libreng Pabahay Malipayon ug pormal nga giturnover ang usa ka unit nga model house ngadto kang Julieta J. Duran, 72 years old, nga aduna’y balatian sa panglawas nga nanimuyo sa Purok 2, Barangay Poblacion, San Jose.

Isa siya sa mga kwalipikadong napili isip benepisaryo sa programang “The Safe Room Resilient Shelter: ClimateProofing the Vulnerable Filipino Household” nga gidumalahan sa International Organisation for Migration (IOM) nga kabahin sa ilang pagresponde sa mga labing apektadong pamilya tungod sa Bagyong Odette.

Asoy ni Nanay Julieta, naka-survive siya sa nakalabay nga Super Typhoon Odette diin nahiagoman niini ang makalilisang nga kasinatian sa kinabuhi dala sa kalamidad.

Matud pa niini nga siya naningkamot sa pagunit sa usa ka haligi

sa iyang balay aron dili sya madala ug mapalid sa kusog kaayo nga hangin diin nagkurog sa katugnaw tungod basa sa ulan sulod sa 6 ka oras ug nagpabiling luwas iyang kinabuhi samtang nahugno ang intero nilang pinuy-anan.

Dugang pa niya nga siya madasigon ug mapasalamaton sa mga personahe sa IOM ug mga opisyal nga naghatag ug tabang kanila ilabi na sa pagtukod ug maslig. on nga balay laban sa kalamidad nga bagyo.

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

Katimbang niini nga programa ang Provincial Government ubos sa kadumalahan ni Governor Kaka Bagao nga padayong naghatud sa serbisyo ug panginahanglanon sa katawhan sa probinsya.

Kauban sa pag turn over ni Gov. Kaka sila Rizalino Delos Santos, Senior Programme Assistant sa IOM Mission in the Philippines, ug uban pang mga kaubanan niini nga personahe sa IOM. (Dinagat Islands-PIO/PIADinagat Islands)

39

Govt’s economic recovery strategy boosts Mindanao’s growth Benefiting from the country’s pandemic recovery strategies, Mindanao’s economic performance grew by 6.3 percent in 2021, with the CARAGA region posting the highest growth rate of 7.4 percent.

MINDANAO NEWS

Mindanao Development Authority cited the government’s reopening strategy and increased public investment in priority infrastructure projects as instrumental in Mindanao’s economic performance, particularly its industry sector.

particularly the health and social work activities, ICT, accommodation and food service activities, and transportation and storage also complemented the growth recovery of the island-region.

Given these trends, MinDA, through its “The solid growth 10-point economic momentum came recovery agenda also mainly from the Industry identified innovative sector due to the solutions, along with positive growth recovery equitable digitalization of all its subsectors as among the emerging - Manufacturing, sectors to support Construction, and Mining Mindanao’s domestic and Quarrying,” MinDA growth in the new Secretary Maria Belen S. normal.

Acosta said.

She added that the services subsectors

“This tells us a lot about the new sectors that we need to be paying more

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

attention to, those that have kept our economy afloat despite the lockdowns and mobility restrictions,” Acosta said.

The Board of Investments also recorded Php 8.36 Billion pesos worth of investment projects in Mindanao for 2021, which translates to more than 5,000 jobs generated.

MinDA further remains confident that Mindanao can achieve 7 to 8 percent growth this year, particularly with the anticipated influx of foreign capital investments, re-opening of borders, and businesses operating at full capacity.

41

Project monitoring in Western Mindanao

MinDA and NEDA Regional Office IX Zamboanga Peninsula discussed the status of the implementation of various key projects in Western Mindanao during a coordination meeting yesterday, May 16, at NEDA-IX Office, Pagadian City.

MinDA Project Development Division Chief Joan Barrera presented MinDA’s key initiatives in Region IX including the Olutanga Island Agri-Fishery Development Plan in Zamboanga Sibugay, assistance to BP2

42

NATIONAL NEWS Program in Zamboanga del Norte, Bulk Water Supply Projects in Olutanga Island and Zamboanga del Sur, Agro-Economic Zones (AEZs), and Mindanao Development CorridorJoint Planning and Programming (MDC-JPP) for roads, bridges, and flood control projects across Zamboanga Region.

Meanwhile, NEDA-XI represented by Assistant Regional Director Maria Felicidad R. Guerrero shared the key results of Regional Project Monitoring Committee (RPMC)-IX CY 2022 Monitoring Plan, and sought MinDA’s possible assistance on CY 2023 Top Priority Projects of Region IX for resource mobilization.

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

President Duterte attends launch of PHLPost’s digital innovation, modernization

trust society.”

The President congratulated PHLPost on its 30th Anniversary and for ensuing transformational and future-proofing journey, as demonstrated by the launching of its digital innovation and modernization.

The COVID-19 pandemic has opened avenues for innovative products and systems that cater to the needs of consumers in the new normal, where data and technology now drive the market, according to the President.

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte delivers his speech during the launching of the Philippine Postal Corp.’s (PHLPost) Digital Innovation and Modernization at the Central Post Office Building in Manila on May 19, 2022. VALERIE ESCALERA/ PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte joined the launch Thursday of the Philippine Postal Corp.’s (PHLPost) Digital Innovation and Modernization, and commended the postal corporation for ensuring a people-centered governance in line with his administration’s reform

44

agenda.

“This endeavor will surely boost our global competitiveness and stimulate economic activities during the period of recovery and digital transition,” President Duterte said during the event at the Manila

Central Post Office at the Liwasang Bonifacio.

“With the success of this project, I thus commend the PHLPost for ensuring responsive and peoplecentered governance, placing Filipinos at the heart of their operations towards building a high-

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

PHLPost’s modernization efforts, he said, are indeed timely and relevant as it facilitates the efficient delivery of communications, payment of services, as well as goods and merchandise, especially as industries and businesses shift their operations to e-commerce and online transactions.

President Duterte also thanked PHLPost for supporting the administration’s advocacies and development plan anchored on Malasakit as one of its pillars.

“In fulfillment of this administration’s Ease of Doing Business agenda

beyond my term, I hope that you will constantly explore innovations and strategies that will further streamline, develop, and improve government services to the people for greater efficiency,” he stressed.

The President expressed optimism that the nation’s pursuit for change and progress would gain more momentum in the coming years under the new leadership. He urged PHLPost personnel to remain united and steadfast in their commitment to the nation to attain progress and prosperity.

(OP) tasked to provide postal services and deliveries in the Philippines as well as to other nations.

Joining the President were Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi, Presidential Communications Secretary and Acting Presidential Spokesperson Martin Andanar, Acting Cabinet Secretary Melvin Matibag, Presidential Assistant for the Visayas Michael Dino, and Sen. Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go.

Senator-elect Robin Padilla, Civil Service Commission Chairperson Karlo Alexei Nograles, Post Master General Norman Fulgencio, and Philippine PHLPost is a governmentAmusement and Gaming owned and controlled Corp. President and Chief corporation (GOCC) under Operating Officer Alfred the Office of the President Lim were also present. PND

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

45

President Duterte offers condolences on the passing of UAE President Sheikh Khalifa leadership, wisdom and benevolence.

President Duterte’s sympathy message was personally conveyed to UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan through his Special Envoy, Secretary Robert E.A. Borje.

UAE’s state news agency reported that Sheikh Khalifa died on May 13 at age 73.

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte joined world leaders Wednesday in extending their condolences to the government and people of the United Arab Emirates on the passing of Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE’s president.

“The President conveys the Filipino nation’s solidarity with the UAE in this period of great loss and bereavement,” a Palace statement said.

46

“President Duterte recalls His Highness Sheikh Khalifa as a bold visionary whose leadership was crucial in the UAE’s sustained economic transformation and deeper engagement with the international community, including the Philippines.”

Sheikh Khalifa, the President said, will long be remembered even beyond the UAE for his legacy of

The UAE leader was rarely seen in public after suffering a stroke in 2014, with his brother, Abu Dhabi’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed, taking over the role as the de facto ruler and the decision-maker on major foreign policy and security issues.

Sheikh Khalifa, who came to power in 2004, is expected to be succeeded as ruler of Abu Dhabi by Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed. PND Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

Country’s salvation rests with the youth, President Duterte tells 2022 PMA graduates The nation’s salvation rests in the hands of the next generation of Filipino leaders who must take part in correcting the society’s ills, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte said Sunday as he graced the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) commencement exercises here.

“In every country’s history, every generation of Filipino leaders and movers lies where our salvation and rests. You, the Bagsik Diwa Class 2022 belong to that generation,” President Duterte told the graduating members of the PMA “Bagsik Diwa” Class.

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte delivers his speech during the Philippine Military Academy commencement exercises at the Fajardo Grandstand, Borromeo Field in Fort Gen. Gregorio H. del Pilar, Baguio City on May 15, 2022. REY BANIQUET/ PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

“In every country’s history, every generation has a role to play and a mission to fulfill. The challenge has been said.”

commencement address as the armed forces’ commander-in-chief, also told the graduates that his administration was constrained to adopt extreme legal measures to fight society’s ills, admitting, however, that although it made inroads after six years, the country is still facing multiple challenges.

The President, who delivered his last

“Corruption, red tape, and illegal drugs, and

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

crime and criminalities are the wrongs that we need to correct,” he said.

The chief executive also pointed out the need for soldiers to adapt to the changing times to stay relevant. Members of the security forces, he said, must play multiple roles, becoming both a warrior and a peacemaker; a skilled war strategist and a lifesaver; and a soldier and a civil servant.

47

He expressed confidence, however, that the graduates could successfully serve those roles, saying the PMA has sufficiently prepared them for all possibilities and eventualities.

“The eyes of the Filipino people are upon you.

Always remain true to your oath. By your actuations in public, the Philippine Military Academy, shall be judged. You are the face of your alma mater,” he said.

The President extended his congratulations to the 214-strong male

48

and female graduating cadets of the PMA Bagsik Diwa Class, and also honored their parents.

Andres Centeno.

Joining President Duterte were Supreme Court Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo Año, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr., Presidential Adviser on Military Affairs Arthur Tabaquero, Sen. Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go, and AFP Chief of Staff Gen.

Benguet Gov. Melchor Diclas, Philippine Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner, Philippine Air Force Commanding General Lt. Gen. Connor Anthony Canlas Sr., Philippine Navy Flag Officer in Command Vice Admiral Adeluis Bordado, PNP OIC Chief Police Lt. Gen. Vicente Danao Jr., PCG Commandant Admiral Artemio Abu, PMA Superintendent Lt. Gen. Ferdinand Cartujano, and Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong also attended the event. PND

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

No local transmission of Omicron BA.2.12.1 yet: DOH

50

There is no indication yet of a local transmission of the Omicron subvariant BA.2.12.1 in the country, an infectious disease expert said Monday.

However, Salvaña did not discount the possibility of local transmission as the subvariant is highly transmissible.

In a televised public briefing, Department of Health (DOH) – Technical Advisory Group member, Dr. Edsel Salvaña, said certain areas were placed under Alert Level 2 because they have not reached the minimum vaccination rate corresponding to their eligible population, not due to the detection of BA.2.12.1 cases.

“Para masabi namin na meron talagang local transmission, lalung-lalo na iyong tinatawag na sustained local transmission, tinitingnan natin itong transmission chain niyan at makikita natin kung mati-trace pa natin (For us to say there is really local transmission, especially sustained local transmission, we look at

its transmission chain and see if it can be traced),” he said.

Earlier, the DOH detected two local cases of BA.2.12.1 in the National Capital Region.

Both had no international travel history.

Twelve other BA.2.12.1 cases were also detected from a tourist cluster in Palawan, 11 of them foreign nationals.

“Halimbawa, iyung sa Palawan, very clear naman [na] isang cluster iyon. Itong sa Metro Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

Manila, iyung dalawa na BA.2.12.1, sinusuri po natin iyong contacts niyan at kung saan man nila nakuha (For example, the one in Palawan, it’s very clear that it’s one cluster.

The two BA.2.12.1 cases in Metro Manila, we’re examining their contacts and where they got it). Is it abroad, is it something that was imported o mayroon ba talagang (or was there a) hidden community transmission?” Salvaña said.

The DOH assured the public that Covid-19 vaccines are safe and effective against the BA.2.12.1 subvariant and they help keep the health care utilization low and the economy reopening under Alert Level 1.

The following provinces, highly urbanized cities, and independent component cities are under Alert Level 2 until May 31, without prejudice to their respective component cities and municipalities which may be under a different Alert Level classification: Luzon:

Passengers fill up a contact tracing form inside a modern jeepney as they were cruising along Captain Samano Road, Camarin, Caloocan City on Friday (May 13, 2022). Authorities have maintained the health protocols even as the Covid-19 numbers are low and movement has eased. (PNA photo by Ben Briones)

Cordillera Administrative Region: Benguet, Ifugao; Region 4-A: Quezon Province; Region 4-B: Occidental Mindoro, and Palawan; and Region V: Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Masbate, and Sorsogon; Visayas: Region 6: Antique and Negros Occidental; Region 7: Bohol, Cebu Province, and Negros Oriental; and Region 8: Leyte, Northern Samar, and Western Samar; Mindanao: Region 9: City of Isabela, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga del Norte, and Zamboanga Sibugay; Region 10:

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

Lanao del Norte; Region 11: Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao Oriental, Davao de Oro, and Davao Occidental; Region 12: General Santos City, North Cotabato, Sarangani, Sultan Kudarat, and South Cotabato; Caraga: Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Dinagat Islands, and Surigao del Norte; and Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao: Basilan, Cotabato City, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi. (PNA/Ma. Teresa Montemayor)

51

Covid-19 cases ‘manageable’: infectious diseases expert Department of Health (DOH)–Technical Advisory Group member Dr. Edsel Salvaña said Monday the number of Covid-19 cases remains manageable and there is no indication yet of a rise due to campaign rallies and the entry of the new Omicron subvariant.

“Right now, the numbers remain manageable. And even if the numbers do go up to several thousand, dahil sa mataas na antas ng pagbabakuna, iyong (because of high vaccination rate, the) number of people who actually developed severe disease remained slow,” Salvaña said in a televised Laging Handa briefing.

iyong pinapayagan sa ngayon, malaking tulong iyan para ma-prevent natin any future surges. And even if mag-surge man, mananatiling mababa ‘yung number of people who have severe disease and mananatiling bukas ang ating mga ospital (At least one booster since that’s the only one allowed, for now, that’s a big help in preventing future surges. In case of surges, the number of people who have severe disease will remain low and the hospitals remain open),” Salvaña said.

indicate that it causes more severe diseases.

However, fully vaccinated persons need to receive their boosters for an added layer of protection.

Preliminary data about the BA.2.12.1 subvariant show it is 20 to 30 percent more transmissible compared to the original Omicron variant.

“At least one booster lang muna, ‘yon naman talaga

There are no data yet which

He added that available Covid-19 vaccines in the country remain effective against Omicron BA.2.12.1 and other circulating variants of SARS-CoV-2. (PNA/ Ma. Teresa Montemayor)

Earlier, the DOH detected the first cases of Omicron BA.2.12.1 subvariant in the National Capital Region and Palawan.

The country would not go back to lockdowns like what happened in 2020 when the population did not have immunity yet against Covid-19, he said.

52

Department of Health (DOH)–Technical Advisory Group member Dr. Edsel Salvaña (Presidential Photo)

Salvaña noted that BA.2.12.1 cases in the country are mild and mostly asymptomatic.

“For now, ang nakikita natin ay hindi naman siya nagti-takeover. Nakikita pa rin natin karamihan dito sa Pilipinas iyong BA.2, at paminsan-minsan ay nagpapakita pa rin iyong Delta (we see that it has not taken over. We see that most cases in the Philippines are BA.2 and we still see Delta [cases] at times),” he said.

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

Smooth transition of pandemic policies to next admin seen

(File photo)

The special medical adviser for National Task Force (NTF) Against Covid-19 sees a smooth transition of vaccination policies and pandemic response strategies to the incoming administration.

In a televised public briefing on Friday, Dr. Ted Herbosa said he is confident that the country’s whole-ofgovernment approach to combat the pandemic will be sustained by the next set of governing officials, particularly the next secretaries of the Department of Health and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).

“I feel that this will be part

of the discussions by the transition team -- from the current administration and the incoming administration,” he said.

Former Metropolitan Manila Development Authority chief Benhur Abalos may succeed Secretary Eduardo Año as DILG chief, according to the camp of Presidentelect Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Abalos left his post to serve as Marcos’ campaign manager and will also be part of the transition team.

Herbosa is optimistic that the policies in the Covid-19 response and vaccination program will be retained, if not further improved, by the next administration.

Caraga Infocus • May 14-20, 2022

“Ito ang nagdala sa atin sa sitwasyon na mayroon tayo ngayon, Alert Level 1. Nakapag-hold tayo ng malawakang national elections (Vaccination has brought us to our situation today, we are in Alert Level 1. We were able to hold an extensive national elections) because our cases were only 100 plus daily. So, nakita natin iyong result ng massive vaccination drive nitong nakaraang taon (So we saw the results of our massive vaccination drive from last year),” he said.

Herbosa hopes that the Marcos administration will continue to vaccinate until the program reaches 90 million Filipinos, which he described as the among most important parts of the first 100 days of the next administration.

“Ang advice ko sa mga susunod na papalit sa amin ay ituloy pa rin itong (My advice to those who will replace us is to continue the) Covid vaccination,” he said. (PNA/ Lade Jean Kabagani)

53

Regional Office Jose Rosales Avenue, Butuan City piacaraga@gmail.com; pia_caraga@yahoo.com.ph (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