Caraga InFocus - May 27-June 02, 2017

CONTENTS

Volume 1, No. 61 27 May - 02 June 2017

REGIONAL NEWS

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DOH Caraga intensifies campaign vs cervical cancer DTI calls on Caraganons to avail P3 program PNP Caraga implements 3Es safety measures

PROVINCIAL NEWS

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Displaced Talaandig tribe in AgSur receives DSWD, gov’t agencies’ services Army supports mobile munisipyo ‘serbisyo on the go’ program in Agusan Sur AgSur producers welcome newest member AgSur town mayor inducts new local biz club officers ‘Mentor Me’ program excites small businesses in Agusan Sur

COVER Sibagat town’s Sinamay shines in ‘Buy Caraga

by Caraga’ fair product parade

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AFP, PNP sign security pact in Surigao Norte

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PLEMO Dinagat Islands conducts SPES orientation 851 coffee growers in SurSur to benefit from IFAD Project ConVERGE Tandag City revives nutrition council Agusan Norte PPOC supports PRRD’s Martial Law declaration Agusan Norte readies for golden anniversary, Independence Day celebrations

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NPA rebel surrenders in Agusan Norte

HEALTH NEWS

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Feature: Nutritional Guidelines for Filipinos: a prescription to good nutrition

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DOE wants better energy facilities for Mindanao

MINDANAO NEWS NATIONAL NEWS

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BIR has key role in PHL economic ‘breakout’-Dominguez SSS, IBP sign MOA for coverage of selfemployed lawyers

News Briefs DepEd Caraga has established an Oplan Balik Eskwela Action Information Center to attend to complaints, issues related to the opening of SY 2017-2018 classes.

The ‘Pondo sa Pagbabago at Pag-asenso’ (P3) is a funding program of the government designed to provide microenterprises an alternative source of financing that is easy to access and made available at a reasonable cost.

The Department of Energy (DOE) is imposing an automatic price freeze on household liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and kerosene products in Mindanao areas.

In partnership with the Phil. Commission on Women (PCW), the Regional Gender & Development Committee (RGADC) Caraga chaired by CHR-13 regional director Atty. Jerefe Tubigon-Bacang bared that the following significant activities will be conducted: Mapping of GAD initiatives; Establish database in Caraga; Gender Budget Forum; & establishment of Technical Advisers on GAD (TAG).

The Social Security System (SSS) reduced the age for optional and technical retirement of both surface and underground mine workers from the previous retirement age of 55 years old to 50 years old in compliance with Department of Labor and Employment(DOLE) Department Order (DO) No.167 S-2016.

Cover Story

Sibagat town’s Sinamay

by Caraga’ fair product p

P

ROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur - The Sinamay (woven abaca fiber) from the town of Sibagat of this province joined select pieces from the other provinces in the region in the product parade during the ‘Buy Caraga by Caraga’ Regional Trade Fair held recently at the Robinsons Place’ Atrium, Butuan City.

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Cover Story

y shines in ‘Buy Caraga parade

The product parade is one of the producers assisted under the Great opening program highlights during the Women Project 2. regional trade fair, which ran from May 16 (soft opening) to May 20.

Agusan del Sur producers who joined the fair include Jannicah food

The fair with the theme “Go loco products/Hills View Food Products, with local” featured products from the Bundy Wine, Shalom Herbal Products, provinces of Agusan del Norte, Agusan RDP Foods Products, Gwaps Food del Sur, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Products, Buena Palma Corporation, Sur and Province of Dinagat Islands Sunrise Corn Coffee, RIC of Prosperidad including special setting for products and Sibagat Federation of Abaca from the Department of Trade and Weavers Association, Incorporated.

Industry (DTI)’s Comprehensive Agrarian (DTI-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Reform Program (CARP) MSMEs and Sur) 27 May - 02 June, 2017

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Photo Gallery Philippine Statistics Authority Caraga Regional Data Dissemination Forum Big Daddy’s Hotel & Convention Center J.C Aquino Ave., Butuan City 30 May 2017

Regional Gender & Development Committee 2nd Quarter General Assembly

NEDA Caraga Regional Office, Butuan City 30 May 2017

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REGIONAL NEWS

DOH Caraga intensifies campaign vs cervical cancer By: Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY – The Department of Health (DOH) Caraga region leads in the celebration of the annual Cervical Cancer Awareness this month of May with the aim to raise consciousness on cervical cancer prevention and Human papillomavirus (HVP) vaccine.

On its 9th year of continuous campaign anchored on the theme “Babae, Mahalaga Ka! Magpascreen…Now Na!”, DOH regional director Dr. Jose Llacuna, Jr., urges women to be educated on HPVrelated diseases and be conscious if there are changes in the cervix due to HPV infection, which may eventually progress into cancer.

regular screening especially sexual contact, he said.

after

Llacuna also recommends the use of cervical cancer vaccine to Filipino women 10 years and above and encourages to have a regular cervical cancer screening such as pap smear or visual inspection of the cervix using acetic acid.

“No woman should die of Early and regular screening plus cervical cancer,” says Dr. Llacuna. vaccine are the key ingredients to The cancer can be prevented by combat cervical cancer, Llacuna

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Regional News says. “If we can prevent it then let us occurs among women from age 30do it,” he adds.

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As per DOH data, about 12 Filipino women die each day of cervical canver with 6,000 cases being diagnosed yearly and commonly

About 22 percent per 100,000 women will most likely get the disese with only 44 percent survival rate.

(NCLM/PIA-Caraga)

DTI calls on Caraganons to avail P3 program By: Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Caraga called on Caraganons especially those entrepreneurs who want their business to grow and develop to avail of the government’s ‘Pondo sa Pagbabago at Pagasenso’ (P3) program.

During the Nationwide Roll Out of the P3 program held on Wednesday at Almont Hotel’s Inland Resort here, Caraga entrepreneurs and representatives from government agencies were oriented on the said program by the officials coming from DTI and other partner stakeholders.

DTI Caraga regional director Brielgo Pagaran underlined that P3 is a funding program of the government designed to provide microenterprises an alternative source of financing that

is easy to access and made available at a reasonable cost.

“In line with President Rodrigo Duterte’s directive to provide affordable micro-financing program for Micro-Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), the 2017 General Appropriations Act (GAA) included P1.0-billion for financial assistance subsidy to microenterprises under the P3 program. Depending on the performance of this initial funding. P3 may be scaled up and included in the 27 May - 02 June, 2017

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Regional News GAA for subsequent years,” Pagaran Jose, Occ. Mindoro on Jan. 27, and elaborated.

Alabel, Saranggani last Jan. 30. She added that a total of P7.7-M have

Pagaran further asked the media been released to individual borrowers to help them in advocating the said in these pilot areas: P3.5-M in Mindoro; program to the general public so P2.2-M in Saranggani; and P1.8-M in many will know and be able to avail Leyte,” Viste recalled. of the opportunity.

Viste added that P3 will make

Small Business Corporation it easy for borrowers since it will only (SBC) senior account specialist require minimal documentation Melody Viste also reiterated that requirement; easy to access with only P3 is a program that gives boost to one day processing of application; low the development of the Micro-Small cost interest at 2.5 percent per month; & Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector, and easy payment with collection on particularly the microenterprises a weekly or daily basis, as necessary. that comprise about 90 percent of registered enterprise in the country.

For more information on the P3 program and how to avail, DTI

“The ‘Pondo sa Pagbabago encouraged the public to visit the at Pag-asenso’ (P3) was launched Negosyo Center in their respective in Tacloban in Leyte on Jan. 25, San areas. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

PNP Caraga implements 3Es safety measures

BUTUAN CITY - Under the directive of the Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Ronald Dela Rosa, the Caraga police and its key stakeholders will be implementing traffic safety measures to create a safer road network across the region.

To attain the objective of preventing vehicular accidents, the Caraga police will be carrying out the 3Es of Traffic Safety: Engineering, Enforcement and Education.

Highways (DPWH) will deal with the first E - the Engineering. It shall focus on looking out for opportunities for development and improvements considering that a properly signed, maintained, lighted and smartly

The PNP in partnership with the designed roadways contributes to Department of Public Works and traffic safety. The public works authority

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Regional News

will be applying immediate actions implementation. upon observance of any identified Police Regional Office Caraga road obstructions. regional director PCSupt Rolando Felix said that for the period covering

The second E or Enforcement from January to April 2017, a total will be jointly conducted by the PNP, of 711 vehicular accidents were Land Transportation Office (LTO) recorded with 69 deaths and 372 and local traffic enforcers for the Physical Injuries while the remaining enforcement of traffic laws and 270 resulted in damage to property road safety rules. The conduct of in the entire Caraga region. These traffic law enforcement will ensure incidents are the major contributor that all motorists observe traffic rules. in the Total Crime Volume across the The community could contribute a region. great job by reporting abusive and dangerous drivers which will enable “The 3E’s: Engineering, local police with prompt response.

Enforcement and Education is expected to contribute in the

The last E that stands for prevention of vehicular accidents Education shall be implemented in the highways and decrease loss through information campaign, of life and damage to property,” in quad media and safety leaflets Felix underscored who also urge the distribution and community public to report to the nearest police discussions. The Caraga police will be stations any violations committed collaborating with the LTO and other by law enforcers themselves. (PNPLocal Government Units for its widest Caraga/PIA-Caraga) 27 May - 02 June, 2017

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Photo Gallery DENR Press Conference

EMB Caraga Conference Room Butuan City 01 June 2017

Department of Education Caraga 2017 Mid-Year Media Press Conference Butuan City 01 June 2017

AGUSAN DEL SUR

Displaced Talaandig tribe in AgSur receives DSWD, gov’t agencies’ services

By: Ryan Malbas Tapayan

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga through the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program has recently conducted the second special over the counter (OTC) pay-out to the members of Talaandig Tribe in Sitio Kinu-aw, Barangay Binicalan, San Luis, this province.

Conducted at the Public Market in Malaybalay City, about 33 Talaandig families received basic assistance from Department of Health-Caraga, PhilHealth-Caraga, Department of Education Agusan del Sur, and DSWD-Caraga.

Considered as one of the most challenging served tribes, the Talaandig of Sitio Kinu-aw has been kept from enjoying basic services

brought about by distance, lack of road access, and tribal clan wars.

The Modified Conditional Cash Transfer for Indigenous People in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (MCCT-IP in GIDAs) , being the primary government program under the DSWD as in-charge for this concern took notice and immediately extended some of the basic services of the Department.

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Provincial News

Apart from the special OTC payout, some of the significant activities were as follows: (1) Verification of MCCT payroll vis a vis MCCT-IP oath of commitment; (2) Releasing of cash for work compensations; (3) Interview for PhilHealth enrollment; (4) Medical Consultation; (5) Distribution of dignity kits, mosquito nets, malong, blanket, water containers, medicines, (6) Distribution of grocery items, (7) Awarding of certificate of CSO accreditation, and (8) Turn-over of Livelihood Cheques.

for PhilHealth registration.

DSWD Caraga OIC regional director Mitah Gupana-Lim calls for an enormous support from various partneragencies to extend services for the Talaandig of Sitio Kinu-aw.

“The DSWD regional office through the support of other government agencies will ensure that the services due to the Talaandig Tribe of Sitio Kinuaw shall be delivered accordingly.

Seeing that this tribe is vulnerable to shocks, convergence of efforts shall

After the OTC pay-out, a be made to sustain our little start,” Lim meaningful conversation was held to said. hear the issues and concerns of the tribe and to ensure the commitment of As planned, the next coordination the agencies that attended the event. meeting is set to happen on the third Some of the concerns raised were week of April, this year. (Social Marketing provision of education, delivery of Unit/DSWD Field Office Caraga/PIAmedical services, and civil documents Caraga)

Army supports mobile munisipyo ‘serbisyo on the go’ program in Agusan Sur PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur - The 26th Infantry (Ever Onward) Battalion, Phil.

Army continued its active contribution in the community development program thru the conduct of the Mobile Munisipyo “Serbisyo On the Go” Program of the local government unit of Talacogon held in Barangay Batucan, Talacogon, this province.

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Provincial News

Said program is an incessant delivery of different basic services targeting the indigent populace in all Barangays in the municipality of Talacogon under the supervision of mayor Jesryl Masendo.

While the local government unit and its agency delivering their services, the 26IB skilled personnel offered free services such as free haircut, reflexology/hilot, provided security and manpower assistance.

Some 700 local populace beneficiaries of said barangay were provided the different services offered by different agencies such as: inquiries and application for Business Licensing; Civil registry; Social Services for senior Citizen and person with disability; Insurance Application for Agusan del Sur Electric Cooperative (ASELCO); Fire safety tips and registration for business establishments by the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP); Appraise and Access real properties from the Accessor’s Office; Civil Registrations and Updates; Agricultural and Veterinary advices.

bloodletting activities, blood typing, Hemoglobin determination and blood pressure test.

Meanwhile, 26IB commanding officer Lt Colonel Rommel Pagayon assured the LGU of Talacogon and its people of its advocacy in supporting the LGU community development program in the area of responsibility by providing personnel in the delivery of different basic services.

He also added that this advocacy is also one of 401st Infantry Brigade’s efforts under Colonel Cristobal Zaragoza. Aside from providing security to the people but to offer free services along the whole area of responsibility of said Army brigade. (26IB, Phil. Army/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

The municipal nutrition office also offered free Nutritional Feeding while the municipal health office provided free services by conducting “Libreng Tuli” (Circumcision), Medicine distribution, medical checkup and consultation, Schistosomiasis treatment and diagnosis.

Also, the Red Cross team of Caraga joined the activity through facilitating 27 May - 02 June, 2017

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Provincial News

AgSur producers welcome newest member BAYUGAN CITY, Agusan del Sur – The Integrated Producers Association of Prosperidad Agusan del Sur Incorporated (IPAPADSI) - a provincial government and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)–assisted producers group has welcomed one of its newest members - the Cleo’s Food Products, with the latter’s inauguration of its official outlet here.

It was only just over a year when this venture started making and selling pork chicharon, camote and banana chips, piñato, ampao, calamay, atchara, and greaseless peanuts.

salabat, barquiron and barquillos from Butuan City to maximize their store offerings.

The store located at Purok-8, Libres Street in Taglatawan, Bayugan City is set to increase further the variety of its goods for sale by taking in other goods from other producers in the region.

Cleo and husband Edgar Tabuan Potencioso, Jr., owners of Cleo’s Food have also started consolidating other locally produced goods such as turmeric, corn coffee and other products within the It also plans to produce region like dried fish (danggit) and processed meat like longganisa, fermented fish entrails (dayok) from chorizo and chicken nuggets. (DTISurigao del Sur, vinegar, sweetened Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

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Provincial News

AgSur town mayor inducts new local biz club officers SIBAGAT, Agusan del Sur - “I encourage you to strengthen your motivation and help improve the economy of the state.”

This was the statement of Sibagat Mayor Maria Liza Evangelista as she addressed the officers and members of the Sibagat Business Club during its induction held recently.

“Sibagat is blessed with rich agricultural land, I encouraged you to maximize it and make our agricultural areas developed and become more productive,” added Mayor Evangelista.

The inauguration with the theme, “Negosyo padayon, komunidad palambuon” also started with a motorcade joined by Sibagat National High School of Home Industries Band and was attended by the Department of Trade and Industry Agusan del Sur Provincial Office (DTI-AdS), Agusan del Sur Chamber of Commerce and

Industry Foundation, Inc., and officials from the national, provincial and municipal offices.

Also, Jose T. Baron, DTI-Agusan del Sur Supervising Trade and Industry Development Specialist urged the members to increase its club members and strengthen their entrepreneurial capabilities. He also invited the members and officers to visit Negosyo Center in Sibagat for their business assistance requirements.

DTI-AdS is also looking forward for the Sibagat Business Club to be an active and significant partner of NC-Sibagat initiatives to help the municipality’s micro, small and medium enterprises. (DTI-Agusan del Sur/PIAAgusan del Sur) 27 May - 02 June, 2017

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Provincial News

‘Mentor Me’ program excites small businesses in Agusan Sur

SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur – The interest of micro and small businesses or enterprises (MSEs) in this province on the ‘Kapatid Mentor Me’ (KMME) program proved to be very high as actual participants during its recent launch with participants that reached to almost 400.

The actual figure of 310 attendees from a target of only 200 count only the MSMEs. The event also had attendees from local and provincial government, provincial, national offices, members of the Provincial Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Development Council and the academe.

The activity was not a mere launch as it also featured two modules of the KMME - Entrepreneurial Mind Setting and Values Formation, and Marketing. The two were given by the Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship Go-Negosyo Angelpreneurs Henry Tenedero and Willy Arcilla, respectively.

Rosalina Go of Rose Excellence Corporation, owner of the ubiquitous Rose Bakeshops and Irenea Hitgano of Hillsview Food Products- producer of the fast selling Mangosteen tea.

The participants were seen still glued to their seats till the end of the program as they soaked in the infosharing of experts.

The participants were seen still glued to their seats till the end of the program as they soaked in the infosharing of experts.

The Mentor Me Program is one of the components of the KAPATID Program which is an initiative of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)

They were joined by Agusan and the PCE. del Sur’s version of successful entrepreneurs who were gracious to The program aims to further accept the invitation to share their develop micro and small--scale stories during the Inspirational Forum. enterprises through coaching and They were Frederico Blanco of F&H mentorship. (DTI-Agusan del Sur/PIAAqua spring Purified drinking water, Agusan del Sur)

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SURIGAO DEL NORTE

AFP, PNP sign security pact in Surigao Norte SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) signed recently the Joint AFPPNP Action Center (JAPAC) and Counter Terrorism IMPLAN here.

The JAPAC and Counter Terrorism IMPLAN aims to strengthen the partnership of the AFP and PNP in providing security in the whole province.

“It is a joint effort of the AFP and PNP in the responsible security operations within our area of responsibility,” Col. Gacal said.

Also, PSSupt. Maghari said that Counter Terrosim IMPLAN is a joint security operations between the AFP and PNP in combating terrorist groups that may conduct possible atrocities in urban areas and the PNP are considered the front-liners to lead the counter terrorist operations.

The signing of the said partnership was led by 402nd Infantry Brigade Commander Colonel Franco Nemecio Gacal, Surigao del Norte Provincial Police Director PSSupt Anthony Maghari, 30th Infantry Battalion (30IB) Commander Lt. Colonel Rico Amaro and attended by military and police officers and The JAPAC includes the members of the local media. implementing guidelines of the Joint Peace and Security Coordinating

Col. Gacal, in his message, said Center (JPSCC) created in October the JAPAC intends to maintain the tight 2013 in order to have a collaborative security on all vital installations of the effort between the AFP and PNP. (30IBprovince.

Phil. Army, PNP/PIA-Surigao del Norte) 27 May - 02 June, 2017

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Provincial News

PLEMO Dinagat Islands conducts SPES orientation SAN JOSE, Dinagat Islands - The Provincial Labor and Employment Manpower Office (PLEMO) in Dinagat Islands conducted the Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES) Orientation on May 4, 2017 held at the Provincial Capitol Guest Center, San Jose town.

The SPES is intended for students who seek a summer job to support their financial needs in school. SPES beneficiaries are those poor but deserving students.

sexuality and assist the youth to avoid early sexual engagement, teenage pregnancies, early marriages and sexually transmitted infections.

In his message, Vice Governor

Out of 349 students who Benglen B. Ecleo stressed the applied, only 100 students have importance of punctuality. been selected.

“Punctually is very important and I

The program has 20 working days, hope you will learn the value of working which run from May 4-31, 2017. The and getting along well with others,� salary rate of SPES beneficiary is P175.00 Vice Governor Ecleo said. per day, 60 percent of which is from the LGU and 40 percent is the counterpart The orientation wrapped up with of the Department of Labor and the Pledge of Commitment of the SPES Employment (DOLE). beneficiaries led by PLEMO officer Emma Y. Mausisa.

During the orientation, SPES beneficiaries had an opportunity The SPES program is being to learn some knowledge about sponsored by the provincial Adolescent Health Development government through the PLEMO and which aims to improve and promote DOLE. (PLEMO-Dinagat Islands/PIAhealthy lifestyle and responsible Dinagat Islands)

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SURIGAO DEL SUR

851 coffee growers in SurSur to benefit from IFAD Project ConVERGE By: Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur - A total of 851 coffee growers who are members of the six assisted Agrarian Reform Beneficiary (ARB) cooperatives of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) within Barobo and Tagbina towns Agrarian Reform Community (ARC) cluster will be the first batch recipients of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) Convergence on Value Chain Enhancement for Growth and Empowerment (ConVERGE) project.

DAR Surigao del Sur information officer Myra Yu said that the Project ConVERGE is a rural development approach that aims to increase the farmers’ income and productivity that will focus on coffee production, rejuvenation, processing and marketing activities.

The said project is financed by IFAD, a specialized agency of the United Nations that helps reduce poverty incidence in the developing

countries.

The cooperative beneficiaries according to DAR are: Mabuhay Kahayagan Coffee Growers Cooperative (MKCGC); Tagbina ARB Multi-Purpose Cooperative (TAGAREBE); Ugoban Multi-Purpose Cooperative (UMPC); Tagbina Rural Improvement Club Producers Cooperative (TAGRICCO); Progressive ARB Cooperatives (PARBMCO); and San Roque Cooperative (SARCO).

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Provincial News

Yu further said that MKCGC, the producer of Robusta Ground Coffee (brewed coffee), which is available in the market, is the lead cooperative in the implementation.

Other coops involved are engaged in coffee production and rejuvenation stage.

during the project consultation meeting said that “as the project progresses, hopefully it will benefit more or less 6,613 agrarian reform beneficiaries in the two municipalities involved”.

The said project started the implementation last quarter of 2016

Provincial Agrarian Reform and will run until year 2021. (PIA-Surigao program officer Benjamin M. Mataksil del Sur)

Tandag City revives nutrition council By: Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – In response to the nutrition challenges of the city, the local government unit of Tandag City reorganized and revitalized the city nutrition committee (CNC) through the conduct of a 2-day Reorganization and Reactivation Meeting held recently here.

According to City Nutrition Office chief Ermalinda Donasco, the reactivation of the CNC is aimed to reduce, if not eradicate the malnutrition problem of the city. The revitalized council is now being chaired by Mayor Alexander Pimentel.

Donasco said the malnutrition problem of the city is still a public issue with an average of 12.0 percent or 850 pre-school children aged 0-7 years old prevalence for a period of three years

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from calendar year 2013 to 2015. This magnitude ranks number one and the highest prevalence rate of malnutrition problem among six cities in Caraga Region.

On 2016, the city ranked as third from the highest prevalence rate of malnutrition problem in Caraga. As of January to March 2017, the prevalence rate is 9.52 percent. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)

AGUSAN DEL NORTE

Agusan Norte PPOC supports PRRD’s Martial Law declaration By: Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY – The Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) of the province of Agusan del Norte has supported President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s declaration of Martial Law in Mindanao.

During its full council meeting held Thursday in one of the convention centers here, PPOC chairperson governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba and the council members have passed a resolution supporting PRRD’s declaration putting the island of Mindanao in the State of Martial Law.

urged the public to cooperate with the security forces in any way possible that will help bring back the normalcy of the situation in the entire Mindanao.

“We don’t need to worry and afraid of the Martial Law declaration in Mindanao, it was done purposely to protect us from the Maute group

Matba called on the public terrorist that created havoc in Marawi to support PRRD’s declaration and City. The declaration is just on time 27 May - 02 June, 2017

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Provincial News and I know the President will not resolution implementing a curfew hour abuse his power,” gov. Matba said. from 12:00 a.m. to 4:00 a.m. in Agusan del Norte was passed purposely to “If the security forces cannot destroy the increase security not only to Agusanons Maute group in Marawi City, there is a but the entire Caraganons as well. chance that it will reach their terroristic acts and activities here in our place, “What we need now is a strong and we don’t like that to happen,” collaboration between the people/ Matba added. public and the security forces to obtain total security of us all,” Matba said.

Also, during the council meeting, a (NCLM/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Agusan Norte readies for golden anniversary, Independence Day celebrations By: Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY – Different activities are lined up for the 50th Anniversary Celebration of the province of Agusan del Norte on June 12 to 17, this year.

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Provincial News

Preparatory meetings and coordination were conducted by the concerned agencies and personnel of the province to ensure the successful conduct of the celebration.

Talentadong Empleyado, Choral, drum and lyre, fireworks display and battle of the bands, TechVoc Skills competition, table skirting, flowerhorn, choral, quiz bowl competitions, and a doggie diva fashion show at the

On June 12, the province will provincial capitol park. have a joint celebration of the 119th Independence Day, the opening Governor Ma. Angelica ceremonies of the 50th Foundation Rosedell M. Amante-Matba will also Anniversary and the Sadow Festival deliver her administration’s 2016 at the provincial capitol covered accomplishments to the people of court. the province or State of the Province Address on June 16 in Buenavista,

During the opening of the Agusan del Norte. celebration, an ecumenical thanksgiving service will be held at On June 17 will be the People’s the provincial capitol to be followed Day celebration where various

by Independence Day celebration government services will be given ceremonies; presentation of the Bae to more or less 4,000 constituents will candidates; and presentation of held in Cabadbaran City. President different tribal dances of the Manobo, Rodrigo Roa Duterte is expected to Higaonon, and Mamanwa tribes. join the Agusanons on the said date.

The awarding of Agro-Industrial Fair

Also, the Taboan sa Kapitolyo winners, Outstanding Agusanons, and will start and a ‘sugba-sugba’ or the Bae coronation night will also be Bangus (milk fish) grilling will be held. (NCLM/PIA-Agusan del Norte) joined by different local and national government offices’ personnel.

Part of the activities during the week-long anniversary celebration is the conduct of the Arbor Day cum Community Immersion on June 13 (2nd day) to four proposed areas, namely: Por Cristo at Buenavista; Coro, Jabonga; Santiago; and Mahaba in Cabadbaran City.

Different competitions will also be held during the celebration, like 27 May - 02 June, 2017

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Provincial News

NPA rebel surrenders in Agusan Norte By: 2Lt Ashley Mae A. del Rosario

CABADBARAN CITY, Agusan del Norte - A young member of the New People’s Army (NPA) operating in Agusan del Norte voluntarily surrendered to the 29th Infantry Battalion (29IB) under the supervision of Col. Cristobal N. Zaragoza of 401st Infantry Brigade.

According to 29IB commanding officer Lt. Colonel Glenn Jy U. Aynera, the rebel identified as Rudy Sagaysay Alimbuyong also known as Ka Bunso surrendered on Tuesday, May 16, 2017.

Aynera revealed that Ka Bunso was with the NPA for 13 months operating in the area of Santiago, Jabonga and Kitcharao all of Agusan del Norte and was involved in the recent encounters in Brgy Hinimbangan, Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte.

“Ka Bunso decided to surrender upon seeing the change of lives of former rebels who already surrendered to 29th Infantry Battalion and believes that he has also a chance to live a peaceful and normal life,” Aynera said.

“His being with the NPAs, left him no time with his family and has not availed of the monthly support the NPA has promised him. He also believed that most of his comrades are already thinking of laying down their arms at any opportune time as they saw in the Duterte’s administration a real change for peace and development,” he added.

MGen Benjamin R. Madrigal, Jr. of the 4th Infantry Division congratulated the Brigade and the Battalion for their continued support to the peace building efforts and further instructed to coordinate with the DILG for the enrollment of the surrenderee to the Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP).

(Civil Military

He also turned over an M14 rifle Operations Officer, 29IB, 4ID, PA/PIAAgusan del Norte) with several rounds of ammunition.

Ka Bunso was an active member of the Sandatahang Platoon Pangpropaganda (SPP) 16A, Guerilla Front Committee (GFC) 16, Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee before deciding to quit the armed struggle due to the “hardships and disenchantment” in the fake revolutionary promises.

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Photo Gallery Caraga Regional Multi-Sectoral Forest Protection Committee 2nd Quarter Meeting Y Hotel Convention Center, Butuan City 31 May 2017

Regional Peace & Order Council (RPOC) & Regional Development Council (RDC) JOINT MEETING Big Daddy’s Hotel & Convention Center, Butuan City 02 June 2017

HEALTH NEWS

Nutritional Guidelines for Filipinos: a prescription to good nutrition BUTUAN CITY - The Nutritional Guidelines for Filipinos (NGF) is a set of dietary guidelines based on the eating pattern, lifestyle, and health status of Filipinos.

In 2012, the Technical Working Group (TWG) for the revision of the NGF, led by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST)

The NGF contains all the nutrition developed a new set of the NGF, messages to healthy living for all age based on the 2000 edition. groups from infants to adults, pregnant and lactating women, and the elderly.

The 2012 NGF now includes the The first NGF released in 1990 was basis and justification for each of the composed of five messages called ten nutritional and health message. “Dietary Guidelines for Filipinos.�

Below are the new messages of

In 2000, a revised nutritional the 2012 NGF: guidelines composed of ten messages - Eat a variety of foods everyday was released and it was called the to get the nutrients needed by the Nutritional Guidelines for Filipinos. body.

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27 May - 02 June, 2017

Health News

- Breastfeed infants exclusively from birth up to six months and then give appropriate complementary foods while continuing breastfeeding for two years and beyond for optimum growth and development.

- Eat more vegetables and fruits to get the essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber for regulation of body processes.

- Consume fish, lean meat, poultry, egg, dried beans or nuts daily for growth and repair of body tissues.

- Consume milk, milk products, and other calcium-rich food such as small fish and shellfish, everyday for healthy bones and teeth.

The revisions were made based on

- Consume safe foods and water the results of the 2008 National Nutrition to prevent diarrhea and other food- Survey (NNS) conducted by FNRI-DOST. and water-borne diseases.

Based on the said survey, the

- Use iodized salt to prevent Iodine Filipino household diet fell below the recommended levels except for niacin, Deficiency Disorders. which is above the recommended.

- Limit intake of salty, fried, fatty, Furthermore, all nutrients and and sugar-rich foods to prevent energy were below the 100 percent cardiovascular diseases. adequacy levels. This was the basis of

- Attain normal body weight NGF messages no. 1, 3, and 4. through proper diet and moderate There is no single food that contains physical activity to maintain good all the nutrients that our body needs so health and help prevent obesity. eating a variety of food ensures that

- Be physically active, make daily nutritional needs are met. healthy food choices, manage stress, There was also a decrease in avoid alcoholic beverage, and do not smoke to help prevent lifestyle-related consumption of fruits from 77 grams in 205 to 54 grams in 2008 and also a non-communicable disease.

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Health News decrease in milk consumption from 44 to cardiovascular diseases. grams to 42 grams. These results were the basis of message no. 3 and 5, There is also a decreasing trend respectively. of physical inactivity among Filipinos and also a large percentage of Filipino

Vegetables and fruits are the main smokers at 31.0% and drinkers at 26.9%. sources of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, while milk is a good source of calcium.

These situations were the basis of messages no. 9 and 10 of the NGF.

Low urinary iodine excretion is still a prevalent problem among pregnant People are always encouraged and lactating mothers, indicating to low to exercise at least thirty minutes a day, iodine intake. Iodine is important during three to five times a week. pregnancy because it is needed for the brain development of the infant while Limit alcohol drinking to one drink lactating mothers must have adequate per day for women and two drinks for supply of iodine in their breastmilk. This men is also advised. is the message of NGF no. 7.

One alcoholic drink is equivalent to

The total cholesterol level among one and half ounce distilled beverage Filipino adults increased from 8.5 (mg/ such as gin or 12 ounces or a bottle of dL) in 2003 to 10.2 (mg/dL) in 2008. beer or four ounces wine or half glass wine or an ounce of 100 proof whiskey.

High cholesterol level may be Let’s practice the ten nutritional attributed to the high consumption of guidelines to achieve good health and sodium rich foods by Filipinos. optimal nutritional status.

Salt and soy sauce were among For more information on food the top 10 widely used miscellaneous and nutrition, contact: Dr. Mario food items used by Filipinos.

V. Capanzana, Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department

In addition, heart diseases ranked of Science and Technology, General first among the causes of death based Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City; Tel/ on the 2005 Department of Health Fax Num: 8372934 and 8373164; email: survey. This is the reason behind no. 8 of mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph, mar_v_c@ NGF. yahoo.com; FNRI-DOST website: http:// www.fnri.dost.gov.ph.; FNRI Facebook

Excessive intake of salt and soy page: facebook.com/FNRI-DOST; FNRI sauce can result to high blood pressure Twitter account: twitter.com/FNRIespecially to salt-sensitive individuals. DOST. (Celina Ann Z. Javier, DOST-FNRI Persistent high blood pressure can result S & T Media Service/PIA-Caraga)

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27 May - 02 June, 2017

MINDANAO NEWS

DOE wants better energy facilities for Mindanao BUTUAN CITY - With the recent situation in Marawi City, Energy Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi, in coordination with the InterAgency Task Force on Securing Energy Facilities (IATFSEF), intends to map out a plan to secure all energy facilities in Mindanao.

At the same time, Cusi said the Department of Energy (DOE) and other concerned agencies should look into the opportunities offered by the present situation to work closely to build a better energy infrastructure and a more resilient energy system in Mindanao.

energy services to Marawi and the province of Lanao del Sur amid ongoing military operations against remnants of the Maute group.

The National Power CorporationMindanao Generation (NPC MinGen) declared that the operations of Power

The IATFSEF continues to push for Plants in Marawi City and the Lanao quality and reliable delivery of basic area are back to normal.

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Mindanao News

As of 8:38 a.m. on Sunday (29 May), NPC MinGen reported that Agus 1 Hydroelectric Power Plant (HEPP) with 2 units generated a total 33 megawatt (MW); Agus 2 HEPP with 2 units generated a total of 79 MW; Agus 4 HEPP with 3 units generated a total of 77 MW; Agus 5 HEPP with 2 units generated a total 32 MW; Agus 6 HEPP with 2 units generated a total 40 MW; 6. Agus 7 HEPP with 2 units generated a total of 25 MW; and Pulangi 4 HEPP with 2 units generated a total 37 MW.

water to efficiently run the Agus-Pulangi Hydro Electric Power Plant Complex.

The Lanao del Sur Electric Cooperative, Inc. (LASURECO) likewise submitted to the IATFSEF the current power supply situation in its franchise area.

As of 10:20 a.m. on Saturday (28 May), LASURECO reported that the 1st District of Lanao del Sur comprising 15 municipalities and the 2nd District comprising 16 municipalities are already 100% energized.

NPC MinGen also reported that it continues to monitor the other The three municipalities in engineering aspects, including the Lake Lanao del Norte are also 100 percent Lanao elevation and the discharge of energized. (DOE/PIA-Caraga)

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27 May - 02 June, 2017

NATIONAL NEWS

BIR has key role in PHL economic ‘breakout’-Dominguez MANILA- Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III has cited the central role that the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) will play in realizing the Philippines “economic breakout” as he underscored the importance of both tax administration and policy reforms in ensuring a steady revenue stream for the Duterte administration’s ambitious program to modernize the country’s infrastructure backbone and accelerate poverty reduction.

Dominguez told BIR officials led by Commissioner Caesar Dulay that the BIR is virtually “girding up for battle” in taking on this “daunting and heroic” role, which is why its revenue targets have been raised and primed to collect trillions of pesos in revenues to help fund programs under the Duterte presidency that aim to sustain the country’s high growth and liberate millions of Filipinos from poverty.

also a heroic task. It enables us to play the lead role in the economic emancipation of millions of Filipinos,” Dominguez said at the BIR’s first semester regional command conference held at the Kingsborough International Convention Center in San Fernando City, Pampanga.

Also at the conference were Undersecretary Antonette Tionko; deputy commissioners Nestor

“The task placed upon our Valeroso, Jesus Clint Aranas and shoulders is a daunting one. It is Lanee Cui-David.

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National News

Dominguez said that under the Duterte administration’s “economic breakout” strategy, the Department of Finance and its attached revenuegenerating agencies make up “the advance guard leading the charge to transform our country and liberate our people” from poverty.

has embarked on. This is the reason targets have been raised and our organization is geared up to collect trillions,” the finance chief said.

He added: “We are bearing the cornerstone of a strategy to emancipate our people from poverty.”

Dominguez said the BIR’s P1.83 trillion collection goal for 2017 might seem quite steep, but even when this target is attained, it will still be moderate when compared to what other Southeast Asian economies generate in terms of revenues.

“I trust all of us here today will deliver you best effort to help us meet our targets. The entire economic strategy relies on the BIR being able to do so. So prepare for a campaign like no other attempted before,” he told some 300 BIR officials and employees attending the conference.

“The fact is our revenue effort has not been impressive for so many years.

Dominguez said BIR employees This is not entirely the Bureau’s fault. should keep “honesty, courtesy and In as far as assuring robust revenue service in mind” when undertaking their flows and a high tax effort, we need respective tasks, and reminded them to dramatically reform both our tax that being incapable of change has administration and our tax policies. We consequences. need to evolve a tax collection system that is simpler, fairer and more efficient.

Taking advantage of favorable We are trying to accomplish precisely global and domestic trends, Dominguez that,” Dominguez said. said the Duterte administration’s objectives in investing heavily in To make the tax system simpler, infrastructure and human capital fairer and more efficient, Malacañang development tis to sustain growth at 7 has been pushing the swift approval percent so that the Philippines could of the first package of the Duterte become a high middle – income administration’s Comprehensive Tax economy by 2022, and poverty Reform Program (CTRP) in the Congress. incidence rate could be reduced to just 14 percent by that time(from 21.6 The House of Representatives is percent in 2015). now holding plenary deliberations on House Bill 5636, which consolidated HB

“The BIR, as you see, plays a 4774—the original version endorsed central role in realizing the audacious by the DOF—with 54 other tax-related economic program our government measures.

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National News

This bill aims to lower personal income tax rates and, at the same time, broaden the tax base by adjusting excise taxes for automobiles and fuel and lifting VAT exemptions except for education, raw food and health, and those enjoyed by seniors and persons with disabilities, among other measures.

“While the infra program is the key to unlocking our economy’s growth potential, it cannot be undertaken without more robust revenue flows. On this consideration, we have aggressively

pushed for tax administration reforms and submitted before the Congress a bold tax policy reform package,” Dominguez said.

He pointed out that the country’s international development partners are closely monitoring how the Duterte administration will perform in its revenue efforts given that embarking on a massive infra program will require a corresponding immense amount of outlays by the government, which can only be sustained by ensuring reliable revenue flows. (DOF)

SSS, IBP sign MOA for coverage of self-employed lawyers MANILA - The Social Security System (SSS) formally covers about 6,000 self -employed lawyers in the country after it has signed the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) on May 19, 2017 during the National Legal Aid Summit held at Henann Regency in Boracay Aklan.

The MOA aims to cover all selfemployed lawyers to ensure that despite working on their own, they can always count on SSS in times of contingencies.

SSS wants to extend the same social security protection to lawyers who are the partners of SSS in upholding the law for the benefit of its members. (SSS) 27 May - 02 June, 2017

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Photo Gallery Nationwide Roll Out ‘Pondo sa Pagbabago at Pag-asenso’ (P3) Launching

Almont Inland Resort, Butuan City 31 May 2017

Press Conference

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