Caraga InFocus –May 7-13, 2022

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DILG LAUDS CARAGA STAKEHOLDERS FOR MAKING NLE 2022 PEACEFUL, ORDERLY

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402ND BRIGADE SECURES VOTERS IN FAR-FLUNG BARANGAYS COMELEC BUTUAN ALL SET FOR ELECTION DAY PNP CARAGA STRATEGIZES PERSONNEL DEPLOYMENT TO ENSURE SAFE, PEACEFUL NLE 2022 NO LIQUOR BAN VIOLATIONS RECORDED IN CARAGA, SAYS PNP DEPED-13 COMMENCED 2022 NLA DTI-13 TO HOLD BALANGHAI EDITION TRADE FAIR CARAGA POLICE READY FOR POST-ELECTION

PROVINCIAL NEWS 19 20 21 22 24 25 26 28 29 31 32

AGNOR NOW READY FOR THE NLE 2022, SAYS COMELEC OFFICIAL PREPARATIONS FOR THE NLE 2022 PEACEFUL, ORDERLY - PNP AGNOR

BALANGAY FESTIVAL 2022, PORMAL NANG GIABLIHAN

SEMINAR-WORKSHOP GIHIMO PAGPALAMBO SA PERFORMANCE SA MGA EMPLYADO SA PROBINSYAL NGA PANGGAMHANAN SA AGUSAN DEL NORTE

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PNP AGSUR CHIEF HIGHLIGHTS PEACEFUL CONDUCT OF NLE 2022 NPA MEDIC SURRENDERED TO CARAGA POLICE KALAHI-CIDSS ISOLATION FACILITY TO BENEFIT THE 2,310 INDIVIDUALS IN LA PAZ VILLAGE

PNP-AGSUR DECLARES ZERO ELECTION-RELATED INCIDENTS IN THE PROVINCE CRIMINAL CHARGES FILED VS. 12 ARRESTED IN SURIGAO NORTE TOWN FOR ILLEGAL POSSESSION OF FIREARMS PEACEFUL AND ORDERLY ELECTION DAY IN SURIGAO NORTE: PNP 8 ARRESTED IN SURIGAO NORTE IN VIOLATION OF COMELEC GUN BAN

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SURSUR RECORDS 87.7% ACTUAL VOTERS OF THE 2022 NLES, THE HIGHEST TURNOUT SINCE 2016 COMELEC DISPATCHES EBS & ELECTION PARAPHERNALIA AS EARLY AS MAY 7 IN FAR-FLUNG AREAS IN SURSUR TOWN

MINDANAO NEWS MINDA LAUDS CREATION OF METRO DAVAO DEV’T AUTHORITY POLL VIOLENCE IN MINDANAO LOWER THAN PREVIOUS ELECTIONS

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NATIONAL NEWS NEWLY ELECTED OFFICIALS, ASKED TO PRIORITIZE PUBLIC WELFARE PRESIDENT DUTERTE THANKS SCIENTISTS, MEDICAL FRONTLINERS FOR AIDING GOV’T IN COVID-19 FIGHT LOCAL OFFICIALS ASKED NOT TO GET INVOLVED IN ILLEGAL DRUGS NTF ELCAC STATEMENT ON THE ELECTIONS THE NTF-ELCAC STRONGLY CONDEMNS THE AGITATION AND FALSE PROPAGANDA DISSEMINATION BY THE DISGRUNTLED AND UNRULY MOB IN FRONT OF THE COMELEC OFFICE A CALL FOR VIGILANCE

COVID-19 NEWS

EXTENSIVE LOCKDOWN NOT OPTION VS. COVID-19 SURGE: EXPERT 9M BOOSTER SHOTS TARGET ATTAINABLE BEFORE END OF DUTERTE’S TERM DOH TO ENDORSE CDC, VAX INSTITUTE CREATION TO NEXT ADMIN

CONTENTS

REGIONAL NEWS

INFOCUS

COVER

Caraga

Volume VI, No. 19 May 7-13, 2022

COMELEC Caraga readies for Barangay Election in December 2022

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

After a peaceful conduct of the May 9, 2022 national and local elections, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Caraga is now preparing for the upcoming Barangay Election in December.

The COMELEC called on the electorates to help and contribute to the upcoming event, just as they supported the recently concluded elections in the region.

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“Voter’s registration will resume in July 2022, and we have noted all the issues and concerns that were raised during the May 9, 2022 national and local elections that could help improve our strategies in making our upcoming election successful,” said Atty. Geraldine Samson, assistant regional election director of COMELEC Caraga.

Samson thanked all the

sectors in the region for actively participating in the national and local elections and for making it peaceful.

“I’d like to give credit to all the Caraganons who are peace-loving people in helping us make the elections peaceful and orderly. Thank you also to all the law enforcement agencies for providing the best security for our teachers who served

Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

during the national and local elections in the different polling centers, as well as to the women and men of COMELEC Caraga for “We have 13 contingency all your hard work and VCMs for Agusan del sacrifices,” she said.

Norte; 11 for Surigao del Norte; and 17 for Surigao When asked how many del Sur,” she added. defective vote-counting machines (VCMs) that In precincts that were reported during encountered defective the conduct of the May vote-counting machines 9, 2022 national and (VCMs), voters were asked local elections, Samson to choose from two options revealed that there were (per COMELEC guidelines) a total of 27 defective -– to wait until the machine VCMs and two defective is fixed and so they could SD cards reported from personally feed their ballot various polling centers/ to the VCM, or to sign a precincts in the region, but waiver and allow the BEI it was immediately fixed to feed it on the machine, as there are designated should they want to leave technical hubs available the polling center after in every province, and they cast their votes. there are readily available contingency machines.

“Should they choose Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

option 2 which is to sign a waiver, there’s nothing to be worried about because there are also watchers inside the precinct who could see if the ballots are already fed to the machine and their votes will be counted,” she said.

She further assured that the COMELEC has noted all the issues and concerns raised during the May 2022 elections, and stressed that the COMELEC along with other law enforcement agencies will improve its strategies to better serve the Caraganon electorates for the upcoming barangay election. (JPG/PIACaraga)

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News Briefs This Farmers and Fisherfolks Month, let us recognize the outstanding contributions and sacrifices of the Filipino farmers and fishermen in ensuring food security and sustainability especially during this time of pandemic. Let us continue to support them with the government’s programs and services to empower and uplift their lives. xx

DILG-Caraga regional director Lilibeth Famacion stressed that the Department has always been part of the preparation for the national and local elections, including barangay and SK elections, and constantly coordinate with the PNP and other concerned agencies for any election-related concerns.

“During the May 9, 2022 national and local elections, we made sure that all the polling centers and precincts were strictly executing the health protocols and observed by all the electorates. Per instruction, those who will have a temperature of 37.5 and above and have COVID-19 symptoms are advised to go home and do self-isolation/ quarantine,” she said.

(INFOcus) PAP SMEAR SAVES LIVES! Ang regular na PAP SMEAR screening ay mahalaga para mapababa ang kaso ng pagkamatay sa cervical cancer. Maiiwasan ang pagkakaroon ng Cervical Cancer sa regular na SCREENING na maaring may kasamang human papilloma virus testing.

Alamin ang mga impormasyon tungkol sa PAP SMEAR sa post na ito. https://www.facebook.com/203479803052977/ posts/5141649322569309/

Now is the best time to do business in the Philippines with the recent enactment of the amendments to the Retail Trade Liberalization Act, the Foreign Investments Act, and the Public Service Act which open up the economy to foreign investments and job creation for Filipinos.

REGIONAL NEWS

DILG lauds Caraga stakeholders for making NLE 2022 peaceful, orderly

typhoon and still facing COVID-19 pandemic.

People expect a lot from the services and programs that you could provide them,” she said.

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

symptoms were advised to proceed to the Isolation Room prepared by the school” she recalled.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Caraga headed by regional director Lilibeth Famacion, lauded the different stakeholders for their contribution in making the national and local elections clean, orderly, and peaceful.

“Based on our assessment, the May 9, 2022 national and local elections was generally peaceful, orderly, as we haven’t observed or received report of

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any huge incident that took place during the conduct of the elections.

We congratulate all the winning candidates and we look forward to your service to the Caraganons,” expressed Famacion.

Dir. Famacion emphasized that the Department has always been part of the preparation for the national and local elections, including Barangay and SK elections, and

constantly coordinates with the PNP and other concerned agencies for any election-related incidents.

“During the May 9, 2022 national and local elections, we made sure that all the polling centers and precincts were strictly executing the health protocols and observed by all the electorates. Per instruction, those voter’s with temperature of 37.5 and above and/ or with COVID-19

Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

The field offices of DILG have been providing the regional office with sufficient reports and updates during the national and local elections.

“We do monitor any failure of election, including the concern on long queues, and defective votecounting machines, among others. These will also form part of the evaluation that the DILG will make. And for now, we are still gathering data on the results of the May 9, 2022 national and local elections,” she added.

“Every after election, the DILG Caraga will conduct a series of training sessions for our Famacion newly-elected officials officials in the different to capacitate them and cities, municipalities and make them more wellprovinces in Caraga versed on transparency region to ensure and good governance. sustainability and stability The DILG is always ready in the daily operations to provide technical of the local government assistance and support. units. “Rise up to the We hope that you all will challenges of time. unite for the benefit of We have high hopes the Caraganons, and that you will continue always bear in mind that to rehabilitate the people’s agenda should economy considering always be put first,” that the region was she stressed. (JPG/PIArocked by the recent Caraga)

Famacion challenged all the newly-elected Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

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402nd Brigade secures voters in farflung barangays

Oriental had been dismantled, as part of our clearing efforts in the NPA formation. We are just waiting for the final order for the declaration,” he said.

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

The 402nd Infantry Brigade, Philippine Army continues to monitor the peace and order situation in the far-flung areas within its Area of Responsibility (AOR) that are also identified to have presence of the New People’s Army (NPA).

According to LTC Jeffrey Balingao, Executive Officer of 402nd Brigade, this is to ensure that everything is in control during the conduct of May 9, 2022 National and Local Elections.

“We cover 95 barangays in rural areas within our AOR and the rest are handled by the PNP. The 402nd Brigade covers areas of LASBUENASCAR (Las Nieves, Buenavista,

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Nasipit, Carmen); Butuan City; some barangays in the municipality of Esperanza and Bayugan City in the province of Agusan del Sur; and parts of Misamis Oriental. We also assured the locals that they are guarded especially during the conduct of May 9, 2022 National and Local elections,” said Balingao.

He bared that there were only three electionrelated incidents recorded in line with the implementation of Gun Ban. “In so far as our security is concern, everything is under control and manageable. The last Guerilla Front in the AOR particularly in Misamis

Balingao also expressed his optimism that the peace and development efforts established through the implementation of Executive Order No. 70 or the whole-of-nation approach to end local communists armed conflict (ELCAC) will be sustained by the next administration, as well as of those people’s organizations and other sectors who are involved and have contributed to the progress of the said program and implementation of the Barangay Development Plan.

He emphasized that this will prevent recruitment of more innocent people to join the senseless cause of the communist terrorist groups, as people are already indulged in the government’s programs and services. (JPG/PIACaraga) Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

Comelec Butuan all set for Election Day The Commission on Elections (Comelec) Office in this city said on Sunday that they are “all systems go” for the Election Day on Monday, May 9, 2022.

City Comelec Officer Mark Christer Sorilla said that as of May 8, official ballots, vote-counting machines (VCMs), and other election paraphernalia are in place in all 334 cluster precincts in the city.

“We are 100% ready. We have already covered everything and we hope we can execute everything we have planned for the past five or six months. We have readied all contingencies if ever there will be some problems in the cluster precincts,” Lawyer Sorilla said.

Sorilla

tomorrow,” the Comelec official said.

“We did the final testing and sealing on May 6.

There were five defective VCMs but we immediately replaced them,” he said.

A power interruption will also not hamper the voting process since the machines have a standby battery that can last up to 14 hours -- just enough He said that they haven’t time to cast and transmit encountered big the votes,” Sorilla said. challenges or problems “Should the transmission of so far, other than the easterlies affecting Caraga votes become a problem, they are advised to Region that could bring heavy rains during Election wrap everything up and proceed to the canvassing Day. area for the transmission.”

“We have delivered and Moreover, security deployed all election measures are in place in paraphernalia today. We far-flung areas, Sorilla said, do not see any problems adding that Philippine unless it rains hard Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) personnel are securing precinct perimeters round-theclock.

Sorilla said although there were delays in their overall preparation due to late delivery of supplies for the isolation polling places (IPPs) and logbooks to be used by field election officers for the registration forms, they have set contingencies to solve the problem.

“We just hope that the community, most especially the voters will just cooperate and obey with the health protocols as well as the procedures implemented inside the polling place,” he added.

(DMNR/PIA-Caraga)

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PNP Caraga strategizes personnel deployment to ensure safe, peaceful NLE 2022

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

The Philippine National Police (PNP) Caraga has strategized the deployment of its personnel in the different areas of the region to ensure safe and peaceful conduct of the national and local elections on May 9, 2022.

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This was emphasized by Police Major Dorothy Tumulak, Public Information Officer (PIO) of PNP Caraga, in an interview conducted by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga team, a day before the elections.

Response Teams in the field units, including the Special Task Groups, and Regional Election Monitoring Action Center. We really hope to have a clean, safe, and peaceful elections tomorrow, May 9,” she added.

“The PNP has strategized the deployment of our personnel to the different designated polling precincts to ensure safety of the vote-counting machines, as well as the security of voters during the May 9, 2022 national and local elections. We also have activated our Quick

Tumulak relayed that the Police Regional Office (PRO) 13 thru the Regional Election Monitoring Action Center (REMAC), has announced that from midnight to noon of May 8, there were no recorded incidents of violation of the COMELEC resolution

number 10746 or liquor ban throughout the region.

massive dissemination of the information of every police station using social media accounts contributed significantly to the positive outcome.

She further recalled that PBGen Caramat, has directed all the Police Provincial and City offices to organize the PNP MAC to render 24/7 assistance starting May 5, 2022.

Each MAC is manned

by PNP personnel ready to assist media on the situations in their area of responsibility.

Spokesperson is also on

standby for their queries and will conduct press briefing if needed during the election period.

election-related events and during the national and local elections on May 9, 2022,” she said.

Meanwhile, when asked about any report of vote-buying, she revealed that they have received related reports from concerned citizens, however, these are still to be verified/ validated. “All the information reported to us is given due attention and corresponding response. We appreciate the active support and participation of the different sectors as we continue to monitor pre-

Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Resolution No. 10746 prohibits selling, furnishing, offering, buying, serving, or taking intoxicating liquor during the identified period.

Anyone found violating any of the provisions may face the penalty of imprisonment of not less than one year but not more than six years without probation.

(PNP13/JPG/PIACaraga)

She stressed that Police Brigadier General Romeo M Caramat, Jr., PRO13 Regional Director, is delighted with the discipline of the public and the compliance of the establishments that sells and distributes alcoholic beverages that resulted in the positive result of the implementation of the liquor ban throughout the region.

It was also noted that the continuous reminder to the public and the Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

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No liquor ban violations recorded in Caraga, says PNP Police Major Dorothy Tumulak, PIO of PNP Caraga relayed that the Police Regional Office (PRO) 13 through the Regional Election Monitoring Action Center (REMAC), has announced that from midnight to noon of May 8, there were no recorded incidents of violation of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Resolution Number 10746 or Liquor Ban throughout the region.

Tumulak highlighted that Police Brigadier General Romeo M Caramat, Jr., PRO13 Regional Director, is delighted with the discipline of the public and the compliance of the establishments that sell and distribute alcoholic beverages. “This is a positive response in the implementation of the liquor ban throughout the region,” she said.

It was also noted that the continuous reminder

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DepEd-13 commenced 2022 NLA

With the celebration of the National Literacy Week and International Literacy Day, the Department of Education (DepEd)Caraga through the Literacy Coordination Council (LCC) commenced the preparatory measures for the 2022 National Literacy Awards (NLA).

Tumulak

to the public and the massive information drive in every police station using social media platforms contributed significantly to the positive outcome.

COMELEC Resolution No. 10746 prohibits selling, furnishing, offering, buying, serving, or taking

intoxicating liquor during the identified period.

Anyone found violating any of the provisions may face the penalty of imprisonment of not less than one year but not more than six years without probation.

(JPG/PNP-Caraga/PIACaraga)

Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

The National Literacy Awards (NLA)is a biennial activity that recognizes the exemplary literacy practices of various outstanding individuals, institutions, Local Government Units (LGUs), and Non-government organizations (NGOs) that contributed to eradicating illiteracy in their communities. This is also to encourage

the development of creative, innovative, and indigenous literacy programs.

years after winning shall be awarded a Special Award of Excellence in Literacy.

The Literacy Coordination Council has set the following categories: • Outstanding Literacy Program; • Outstanding Local Government Unit (LGU); • Highly Urbanized City; • Component City/Independent Component City; • First to Third Class Municipality, and; • Fourth to Sixth Class Municipality.

The First-place winners for having maintained their rank for three years, consecutive or nonconsecutive, will be eligible for the Hall of Fame Awards.

The Local Government Units (LGU) and Non-government Organizations (NGOs) that have sustained their exemplary performances for three

Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

Meanwhile, the Literacy Coordination Council (LCC) may recommend any outstanding literacy program implemented

by NLA awardees to the UNESCO International Literacy Prize based on which category it will fit.

The 2022 National Literacy Awards (NLA) will be held in September 2022.

(MCeledeña/DepEdCaraga/PIA-Caraga)

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DTI-13 to hold Balanghai Edition trade fair

Caraga police ready for Post-Election

parade, where the exhibitors showcase and model their food and non-food products on May 15, 2022 at 2:00 pm at the SM City Butuan.

A total of 153 exhibitors will be participating in the said trade fair coming from the different provinces of Caraga Region.

The activity is conducted to provide the local entrepreneurs a venue where they can feature their products and help increase the awareness of the Caraganons on their locally produced products.

In time with the Balangay Festival 2022 Celebration, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)Caraga is set to hold a trade fair dubbed as “Buy Caraga By Caraga:

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2022 Balanghai Edition” the first local exhibit for the year 2022.

This edition of the Buy Caraga By Caraga highlights the fashion

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)Caraga invites everyone to visit and support the 7-day regional trade fair on May 15-21, 2022 at 10:00am to 9:00pm at the SM City Butuan. DTICaraga also encourages everyone to observe the standard health protocols during the said activity. (MCeledeña/ DTI-Caraga/PIA-Caraga) Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

The Regional Director of Police Regional Office 13, Police Brigadier General Romeo M. Caramat, Jr., assured the public that the police are ready to respond to any possible eventualities after the conduct of the 2022 National and Local Elections in Caraga region.

“Personnel deployed to secure polling precincts were recalled and have returned to respective

police units and are now performing police operations,” the region’s top cop said.

He added that part of the early preparations for the election is the setting of Contingency Plans for the Post-Election Period, where protests or any unrest are possible.

even after the election with our stringent security measures,” RD CARAMAT JR stressed out.

Meanwhile, he reminded the public that the democracy we enjoy has an associated responsibility to adhere to the law, and anyone who commits illegal “We successfully kept the activities will be put elections peaceful; I am behind bars. (PMaj positive that this Dorothy M. Tumulak, PIO, peace will continue PNP13/PIA Caraga)

Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

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AgNor now ready for the NLE 2022, says COMELEC official

PROVINCIAL NEWS

“We are now 100 percent ready,” says Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Agusan del Norte provincial election supervisor Atty. Raquel Limbaco in an interview with the Philippine Information Agency Agusan del Norte, Sunday afternoon.

precincts in the province of Agusan del Norte, Atty. Limbaco declares readiness for the conduct of the National and Local Elections on Monday.

“We only encounter minimal problems during the final testing and sealing, that include the With the deployment, six VCMs functionality, final testing and sealing of the 776 Vote Counting but the problem was immediately addressed Machines (VCMs) in by replacing the VCMs, the different polling Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

,” said Atty. Limbaco.

Atty. Limbaco also said that a Provincial Technical Hub was created to address concerns on VCMs, like that of re-configuration of the units.

For a safe and peaceful elections, Atty. Limbaco calls on Agusanons to to vote wisely, follow and observe health protocols for a VoteSAFEPilipinas.

(NCLM/PIA Agusan del Norte)

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Preparations for the NLE 2022 peaceful, orderly - PNP AgNor

The Philippine National Police (PNP) Agusan del Norte together with the Philippine Army, and other concerned agencies take full control on the peace and order situation of the province in relation to the conduct of the National and Local Elections (NLE) on Monday, May 9, 2022, said PNP Agusan del Norte spokesperson PMaj Emerson Alipit in an interview with Philippine Information Agency (PIA), Agusan del Norte.

“Peace and order in the province is still under control despite report of incidents that need

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to be confirmed and investigated if they are election-related incidents or not,” PMaj Alipit said.

To achieve a successful conduct of the NLE, according to PMaj. Alipit, some 800 personnel of the PNP Agusan del Norte were deployed to the different areas of the municipalities to perform election-related works.

When asked on the challenges encountered during the preparations, PMaj Alipit mentioned the lack of communication signals in far flung areas, and the those areas

unreachable by motor vehicles. Despite of the challenges, all were given remedy and alternative solutions, and because of the contingency plan being prepared.

Also, a simulation exercise was conducted to address problems that may encounter during the elections.

PMaj. Alipit also calls on supporters to stay calm and refrain from joining any chaos to attain a secure, accurate, free, and fair elections. (NCLM/ PIA Agusan del Norte)

Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

Balangay Festival 2022, pormal nang gi-ablihan

Pormal nang gi-ablihan ang Balangay Festival 2022 human sa duha ka tuig nga pakig bisog sa COVID-19.

kasaulogan.

selebrasyon, nag taas og wine glass ang mga Sa mensahe ni Mayor City Officials sa syudad Ronnie Vicente Lagnada ug ang mga Head mapasalamaton siya of Offices. Anaa sab tungod nasaulog na fire works display nga Gipakita sa programa balik ang Balangay mas nag pa nindot sa ang paghulagway sa Festival sa mga Butuan. selebrasyon. kasaysayan sa Butuan Nagpasalamat sab pinaagi sa sayaw. siya nga misalig ang Ang Balangay Festival Lakip na ang nahitabo katawhan sa mga nga COVID-19 rason programa ug misunod sa molungtad hangtud Mayo 19, 2022. Ginganong duha ka tuig protocol para mabalik awhag ang tanan sa wala nasaulog ang ang kalingawan bisan pag suporta sa tanan kapiyestahan. paman sa new normal. kalingawan sa syudad.

(Butuan City PIO/PIA Liboan sa mga Butuanon Para mahimong opisyal Agusan del Norte) ang mitambong sa ang pag sugod sa Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

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Seminar-workshop gihimo pagpalambo sa performance sa mga emplyado sa probinsyal nga panggamhanan sa Agusan del Norte probinsya isip direksyon sa panerbisyo sa matag empleydao.

Gisugdan karon, Mayo 12, ang duha ka adlaw nga Seminar-Workshop sa Strategic Performance Management System (SPMS) sa matag empleyado sa probinsya sa Agusan del Norte.

Unang gihatagan og pagbansay ang mga Chief of hospitals ug mga representante sa provincial hospital, district ug municipal hospitals sa probinsya sa kalihukan nga gihimo sa Provincial Training

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Center, Provincial Capitol, Butuan City.

Ang SPMS magsilbing pamaagi pagsukod sa kalidad, efficiency ug timeliness lakip na ang competencies sa matag empleyado base sa performance niini pagseguro nga mahimo niya ang mandato ug mga tahas sa iyang trabaho.

Ubos sa SPMS tutokan usab ang Office Performance

& Commitment Review (OPCR) ug Individual Performance Commitment and Review (IPCR) sa matag usa, apil na ang Financial Plan, Research and Development Plan, Procurement Plan, Human Resource Plan ug Recruitment selection.

Sumala ni Dir. Christopher C. Mabale sa Civil Service Commission (CSC) Caraga nga kinahanglan masabtan unsa ang vision sa Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

Dugang ni Mabale nga ang vision sa probinsya sa Agusan del Norte kinahanglang matranslate into programs aron makalatag ug mga programa alang sa mga Agusanons nga maoy basehan sa performance sa matag empleyado.

Ang SPMS usa pod sa requirements sa CSC nga gitawag nga Performance Management: A Component of PRIMEHRM. Himoon ang sunod nga SPMS sa uban pang mga departamento ug opisina sa probinsya sa Hunyo ning tuiga.

Ang probinsya sa

Agusan del Norte naglantaw ubos sa kasamtangang adninistrason ni Gob. Dale B. Corvera nga mahimong “Agricultural Processing Center sa Caraga Region pag abot sa tuig 2027,” direksyon sa pagpalambo nga maoy mahimong panukaran sa tahas sa matag empleyado.

Kini usab ang panglantaw sa gisundan ni Gob. Corvera nga administrasyon ni Kanhi Gob. Angel AmanteMatba, ang kongresista sa Segundo distrito karon ug mobalik isip gobernador karong Hunyo.

Si Gob. Corvera magsilbi sugod sa Hunyo isip kongresista apan base sa iyang mga pamahayag padayong

Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

suportahan niya ang katumanan sa maong panglataw diha sa mga palisiya nga iyang pandayon ug mga programa nga himoon sa distrito ug nakita niya nga dakung tabang ang SPMS sa pagseguro nga matutokan sa mga empleyado ang ang pagkab-ot ning maong panglanw.

Ang Performance Management Team (PMT) sa probinsya sa Agusan del Norte nag compose sa mga buhatan sa Provincial Planning and Development Office [PPDO], Provincial Human Resource and Management Office (PHRMO), Provincial Governor’s Office (PGO), PECAN, Provincial Accounting Office [PASSO], Provincial Treasurer’s Office (PTO) ug Provincial Budget Office (PBO).

Personal usab nga mitambong si Provincial Board Member Board Member Virgilio Escasiñas, Jr., Dr. Tomas O. Tener, Jr. sa PPDO, Jo-anne E. Cenas sa PHRMO. (Agusan Up/PIA Agusan del Norte)

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PNP AgSur chief highlights peaceful conduct of NLE 2022

to provide security and ensure the safety in the polling centers.

“I would like to congratulate the men and women of ADSPPO for a peaceful and successful conduct of election in our beloved province.

My sincere gratitude to all of you for securing your designated area and ensuring the safety of everybody. Good job everyone!,” PCol Canlapan said.

The Agusan del Sur Police Provincial Office (ADSPPO) headed by Police Colonel Jovito C Canlapan, Acting Provincial Director, announced a Safe, Fair, Orderly, Credible and Peaceful conduct of recently concluded National and Local Elections 2022 in the province of Agusan del Sur. ADSPPO activated the Provincial Election Monitoring Action Center (PEMAC) in collaboration with the Armed Forces

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“To the populace of Agusan del Sur, thank you so much for cooperating with us. Dealing with thousands of people of the Philippines (AFP) is never easy, but you and other agencies, for the sharing, validation, made it manageable and counter validation of for us. You only proved information relative to the that AgSurnons are well elections. disciplined people” he Data from PEMAC revealed added. that there is no reported This is in line with the untoward incident in the province during Election Community perspective of Day. the PNP P.A.T.R.O.L. Plan 2030, the Transformation Some 1,136 PNP personnel Program of the were deployed to the Organization. (PNP-Agusan different barangays of del Sur/ PIA-Agusan del Agusan del Sur four days Sur) before the election day Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

NPA Medic surrendered to Caraga police A medic member of the New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered to authorities on May 5, 2022, due to the relentless efforts of Police Regional Office (PRO) 13 on the campaign against insurgency and terrorism.

PRO13 Director Police Brigadier General Romeo M Caramat Jr., disclosed that alias ‘Jovelyn’, 37 years old, and full-time Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) medic of Weakened Guerilla Front 14, SubRegional Committee Southland, Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee surrendered to the personnel of 1303rd Maneuver Company, Regional Mobile Force Battalion 13 in Bunawan, Agusan del Sur. She yielded her issued homemade caliber .357 revolver to the police.

“Alias Jovelyn was one of the victims who

reached the point of self-realization that she gained nothing but undeserved struggle and suffering on the mountain while at the hands of a terrorist group. To all the remaining members of the CTG, there is hope for a better tomorrow if you choose to renounce armed

Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

struggle and surrender to the government,” RD Caramat said.

Alias ‘Jovelyn’ is now under the custody of 1303rd Maneuver Company for proper documentation and custodial debriefing.

(PMaj Dorothy Tumulak, PIO, PNP Caraga/PIAAgusan del Sur)

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KALAHI-CIDSS isolation facility to benefit the 2,310 individuals in La Paz village

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The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) handed recently an isolation facility to Barangay Villa Paz in La Paz town, Agusan del Sur province, that will benefit 529 households or 2,310 individuals.

Laban sa KahirapanComprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHICIDSS), is a collapsible tent with 12 rooms that will be used to quarantine suspected coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) residents.

The isolation facility, which is a subproject of DSWD’s Kapit-Bisig

Each room is complete with folding bed, sleeping kit, chair, table, and

electric fan. The facility has two restrooms and a hand wash area.

The subproject started on February 17, 2022 and was completed on March 17, 2022. It amounted to Php758, 353.

“Dili ta magdahum nga naay mabutang diha sa isolation facility.

However, andam na ta

Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

kung mosaka na pud ang cases sa COVID. Gihagit ko kamo pag atiman sa maong proyekto (We are not expecting that there will be people who will be placed in the isolation facility. However, we are now ready just in case COVID-19 cases will rise again),” DSWD Caraga Assistant Regional Director for Operations Jean Paul S. Parajes said during the turnover ceremony.

sa buluhaton, pag assist sa pagimplemntar, “Base sa atong record, sa pagedukar sa dili lang kining isolation community, ug pag facility, aduna nay himamat uban sa two classrooms, solar akong mga kauban dryer, and solar lights nga volunteers sa DSWD nga na-implemtar diri KALAHI (I’m very glad sa Barangay Villa Paz to have volunteered pinaagi sa KALAHI-CIDSS in KALAHI. I’m even nga programa (Based on happier to be part of the our records, apart from planning on the things the isolation facility, we to be done, to assist in also have 2 classrooms, the implementation, solar dryer, and solar lights in educating the for Barangay Villa Paz thru community, and to have the implementation of met my co-volunteers KALAHI-CIDSS program),” in DSWD KALAHI),” Parajes said. said Janeth Emong, chairperson of the Villa Paz residents were Barangay Development grateful for the project Council Technical Worker and the chance to be Group. part of DSWD KALAHICIDSS. “Gitugot nako akong “Nalipay kaayo ko nga kaugalingon nga nagboluntaryo sa KALAHI. mag boluntaryo kay Nalipay kaayo ko nga tungod gusto sab ako kami apil sa pagplano maktabang arun sa Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

paglambo sa among barangay hilabi kay tungod naa ang krisis sa COVID-19 (I have allowed myself to volunteer because I want to help my barangay especially during this time of COVID-19 pandemic),” Emong said.

On the other hand, Datu Andipayon Pendon Jr., who is the Indigenous People Mandatory Representative of CADT 117, said he is thankful to all the workers of DSWD who made all the community projects in La Paz possible.

KALAHI-CIDSS is one of the poverty alleviation programs of the government being implemented by DSWD. (DSWD-Caraga/PIAAgusan del Sur)

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PNP-AgSur declares zero electionrelated incidents in the province

Criminal charges filed vs. 12 arrested in Surigao Norte town for illegal possession of firearms Criminal charges were already filed against 12 arrested men in Malimono, Surigao del Norte for illegal possession of firearms, Police Regional Office (PRO) 13 Regional Director PBGen. Romeo M. Caramat, Jr., said Wednesday, May 11.

The Agusan del Sur Police Provincial Office (ADSPPO), declared zero election-related incidents throughout the province from the start of the preparation and up to the end of the 2022 National and Local Elections.

Police Colonel Jovito C Canlapan, Agusan del Sur Police Provincial Officer Director, emphasized that the utilization and the maximum deployment of police in each polling station in the province resulted to a peaceful and harmonious 2022 National and Local Elections in the

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area.

Agusan del Sur Provincial Election Monitoring Action Center (PEMAC) reported that some vote-counting machines (VCMs) were faulty but were given swift resolution by the responsible committees, and some municipalities experienced power interruptions.

PCol Canlapan, also recognized the efforts of the counterpart agencies as they helped the PNP in maintaining the peace, security and the sacrifices of the people of Agusan

del Sur as they waited patiently to cast their votes.

“I commend every police officer in Agusan del Sur for realizing the province’s peaceful and orderly 2022 National and Local Elections.

Likewise, my grateful appreciation to the peace-loving AgSurnons for supporting our security forces in attaining a safe and secure election,” Canlapan said. (PNPAgusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur) Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

The suspects were arrested in a separate operation by the combined elements of Malimono Municipal Police Station, Regional Mobile Force Battalion 13, and the Philippine Army on May 8, at Brgy. Binucaran, after responding to a report that said armed men were in their village.

Other suspects however were flagged during a checkpoint operation on May 9, at Brgy. Pili.

In a statement, PBGen. Caramat, Jr. revealed that violation of the Republic Act No. 10591 (Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulations Act) and

COMELEC Resolution No. 10728 (Comelec Gun ban) were filed by Malimono police against Bryan Canibel Sala of P-5, Brgy.

Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

Binocaran, Malimono, Surigao del Norte; Kieth Acelo Non of Brgy.

Alfonso, Tagaytay, Cavite; Michael Angelo Talosig

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Enhance rifle, M4 Carbine rifle, M4 rifle with defaced serial number, Caliber .45 pistol model 1911 with defaced serial number, STI Caliber .45 pistol, Para Ordnance Caliber .45 pistol, Smith and Wesson Caliber 9mm pistol, Colt Caliber 45 Pistol, Caliber 45 Pistol with defaced Make and Serial Number, magazines and various ammunition in their control.

The cases were filed through an inquest proceeding on May 10, and were docketed under NPS Docket No. XIII-06INQ-22E-053 and NPS Docket No. XIII-06-INQ22E-052.

Andres of 250 Brgy. 3, Aluminus Laguna; Falcon Eral Sinaca of Brgy. San Isidro, Malimono, Surigao del Norte; Lino Sales Obre of Brgy. Muzon, San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan; Ernesto Adloan Balopeños of Brgy. Poblacion, Brooks Point, Palawan; Julius Dalman Cabonce of Purok Sta Cruz, Brgy. Duhinob, Dipolog City; Ricky Zabalero Banlas of Brgy.

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Magtangale, Balingoan, Misamis Oriental; Adulla Malic Sahalain of LustreSta Catalina, Zamboanga City; Edgar Alba Diaz of San Vicente 1, Bislig City; Avenir Adelantar Lim of Lower Calarian, Zamboanga City; and Junypeth Baroca Sumili of Purok Caimito, Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay after they found a M4 Caliber 5.56MM Commando

“The Caraga police relentlessly intensified operations against loose firearms and tightened the implementation of the COMELEC gun ban to prevent its utilization of illegal activities and disrupt the peaceful conduct of the national and local elections.

If any similar case arises, the public is encouraged to report and coordinate with the nearest police station,” PBGen. Caramat said in a statement.

(Police Regional Office-13/ PIA-Surigao del Norte) Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

Peaceful and orderly Election Day in Surigao Norte: PNP Following the successful arrests of 12 suspects on COMELEC Gun Ban and violation on Republic Act No. 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, prior the actual casting of votes, Election Day in the province of Surigao del Norte turned out to be generally peaceful and orderly.

The Office of the Provincial Operations Division recorded zero criminal activities in the entire province yesterday, citing that only minor incidents like Vote-Counting Machine (VCM) malfunction, other VCM technical problems, and long queue of voters in the polling precincts but these were immediately addressed.

PCOL Renato C. Mercado, provincial director of Surigao del Norte Police Provincial Office, emphasized that the neutralization

of possible threats in the province have contributed to the overall success of the election.

that your police remain committed to serving and protecting the country and people,” said Director Mercado.

“The people in Surigao del Norte province were able to exercise their right to vote due to our relentless and persistent efforts to provide a safe and secure environment.

The 2022 National and Local Elections are over but rest assured

Mercado added that all documents and statements against the arrested suspects have been prepared and cases will be filed at the Prosecutor’s Office today. (Police Regional Office-13/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

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8 arrested in Surigao Norte in violation of Comelec gun ban

Eight persons were caught in possession of firearms during the Comelec Checkpoint conducted at Purok 4, Brgy. Binocaran, Malimono, this province.

The joint forces of Malimono Municipal Police Station, 30th Infantry Battalion Philippine Army, 1305th MC, Regional Mobile Force Battalion-13 and QRF 3 of the 1st Surigao del Norte Provincial Mobile Force Company (1st SDN PMFC) arrested Bryan Canibel Sala, 40, from Purok 5, Brgy.

Binocaran, Malimono; Kieth Acelo Non, 39, from Brgy.

Alfonso, Tagaytay, Cavite; Michael Angelo Talosig Andres, 28, from 250 Brgy. 3, Aluminus, Laguna; Falcon Eral Sinaca, 50, from Brgy.

San Isidro, Malimono; Lino Sales Obre, 65, from Brgy.

Muzon, San Jose Del Monte,

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Bulacan; Ernesto Adloan Balopeños, 36, from Brgy.

Poblacion, Brooks Point, Palawan; Julius Dalman Cabonce, 27, from Purok Sta Cruz, Brgy. Duhinob, Dipolog City; and Ricky Zabalero Banlas, 38, from Brgy. Magtangale, Balingoan, Misamis Oriental.

STI Caliber .45 pistol loaded with one magazine with ammunition; one Para Ordnance Caliber .45 pistol with two magazines with ammunition; one Smith and Wesson Caliber 9mm pistol loaded with magazine with ammunition; three other magazines for Caliber .45 pistol loaded Surigao del Norte Police with ammunition; five plastic Provincial Office (SDN magazines for Caliber PPO) Provincial Director 5.56MM rifle loaded with PCol. Renato C. Mercado ammunition; and one revealed that the recovery aluminum magazine for of firearms and ammunition Caliber 5.56MM rifle loaded stemmed from a concerned with ammunition. citizen’s call that armed men were standing by in “We strictly enforce our the area. police operation for a successful, free from Authorities were able to violence and fair conduct confiscate one M4 Caliber of the national and 5.56MM Commando local elections,” Director Enhanced rifle; one M4 Mercado said. (PNP-Surigao Carbine rifle; one M4 rifle; del Norte/PIA-Surigao del one Caliber .45 pistol; one Norte) Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

SurSur records 87.7% Actual Voters of the 2022 NLEs, the highest turnout since 2016

This year’s national and local elections have recorded the highest turnout compared to the past two elections in 2016 and 2019 respectively.

highest so far in Surigao del Sur.

municipalities, and one city, and 188,254 from the 2nd district, composed of four (4) municipalities and one city.

Based on record, in 2016 there were 367,528 registered voters, 84.46% officially voted. While in 2019, 79.89% casted Meanwhile, the The Commission on their votes from the Provincial Board of Elections (COMELEC) 413,593 registered voters. Canvassers already Provincial Election proclaimed the new Officer, Atty April Joy Currently, the province and re-elected officials Balano revealed that the has a total of 440,070 in Surigao del Sur late 2022 National and Local registered voters, of afternoon of May 10, Elections got the highest which 260,806 are 2022, a day after the number of “Actual from the 1st district, 2022 NLE. (PIA-Surigao Voters” at 87.7%, the composed of 13 del Sur) Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

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COMELEC dispatches EBs & Election paraphernalia as early as May 7 in far-flung areas in SurSur town The Electoral Board (EBs) along them are the election paraphernalia and documents for some selected voting centers in the far-flung areas of the interior municipality of San Miguel, Surigao del Sur were dispatched on Saturday, May 7, and May 8, according to COMELEC. As of Saturday, San Miguel COMELEC chief Florephi Botona said, that the EBs for Barangay Bitaugan proper, Sitio Bato, Bitaugan, and Sitio Manhulayan, Brgy.

Bolhoon voting centers all in San Miguel, Surigao del Sur were successfully dispatched.

Earlier today, May 8, 2022, another team of the EBs along with them are the counting vote machine (VCM), election paraphernalia, and documents were also dispatched bound for Barangay Bitaugan (Cluster Precinct No. 45).

Botona added, Barangays of Calatngan, Bagyang, and Umalag were inlcuded in the approved early deployment of EBs team, and the election

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paraphernalia and documents.

May 6, 2022, Botona added.

For the far-flung barangays the testing and sealing were done in Tina Elementary School in Barangay Tina, San Miguel, Surigao del Sur.

According to Botona, per information received from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Philippine Army thru its handheld radio communication, the EBs along with the election paraphernalia and documents safely arrived in the area.

According to Botona, the rest of the EBs, election paraphernalia, and documents for the remaining voting centers in the municipality of San Miguel will be dispatched at 2:00 AM on May 9, 2022, the election day.

All Vote Counting Machine (VCMs) were tested last

Meanwhile, it was noted from the past elections, that the municipality of San Miguel was the last to send its Election Returns (ERs) in Surigao del Sur province.

There were notable delays in the submission of ERs due to no network coverage in some voting centers. The EBs accordingly need to travel the election returns to areas with network connection and send data to the canvassers of both municipal and provincial levels. (Nida Grace P. Barcena/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

MINDANAO NEWS

MinDA lauds creation of Metro Davao Dev’t Authority The Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) welcomes the creation of the Metropolitan Davao Development Authority (MDDA) through RA No. 11708 signed by President Rodrigo RoaDuterte last 13 April 2022.

This new development is aligned with MinDA’s long-term assumption of how metropolis is going to evolve and emerge in Mindanao in the next few years, which is also a higlight in the Metro Davao Urban Master Plan.

11708 creating the Metropolitan Davao Development Authority signed into law, which establishes special development and administrative region consisting six (6) cities and nine (9) municipalities, Davao MinDA Secretary Region is expected Maria Belen S. Acosta expressed her full support to experience rapid to this new development socio-economic growth and sustainable for the Metro Davao development,” Secretary during the 4th General Acosta said.

Membership Meeting of the Davao City Chamber of Commerce As MinDA has always and Industry Inc. (DCCII) higlighted through the Mindanao Development in Park Inn by Radisson Hotel last Friday, 28 April. Corridors, there is no ‘one size fits all’ strategies in Mindanao and “With the RA

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everything is incumbent on the strengths and peculiarity of the areas in the island region.

She also added that “in effect, high impact projects that will bolster urbanization of the Metro Davao will be effectively managed ensuring harmonized and inclusive development in Davao Region.”

Principal Author Cong.

Isidro T. Ungab of 3rd Congressional District, Davao City presented, for approval, the House Bill No. 8930 during the 18th Congress 2nd Regular Session.

Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

The creation of the MDDA shall provide a metropolitan level management, and to permanently govern the affairs of Metropolitan Davao. It shall also perform planning, implementation, monitoring and coordinative functions and exercise regulatory and supervisory authority over the delivery of area-wide services with Metropolitan Davao.

Meanwhile, Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go who is the author and co-sponsor of the law emphasized that Mindanao will benefit from MMDA’s establishment given that there will be an agency

that will oversee and coordinate development efforts and initiatives for the different local government units (LGUs) in Davao Region.

Some of the scope of services and mandate of MMDA include development planning, transport management, solid waste disposal and management, flood control and sewerage management, urban renewal, zoning, land use planning, and shelter services, among others.

MDDA is also seen to maximize the potential of the LGUs for development, which MinDA expects to further

Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

propel the economic performance of the larger Davao Region.

The Authority will cover Davao City and its neighboring cities such as Panabo, Tagum, Samal in Davao del Norte, Digos in Davao del Sur, Mati in Davao Oriental, and the municipalities of Sta. Cruz, Hagonoy, Padada, Malalag, and Sulop in Davao del Sur, Carmen in Davao del Norte, Maco in Davao de Oro, and Malita and.

Sta. Maria in Davao Occidental.

For more information, please visit our website at https://minda.gov.ph.

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Poll violence in Mindanao lower than previous elections peaceful despite untoward incidents reported in some regions.

Meanwhile, the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) said 26,299 out of the 33,286 registered persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) cast their votes in supervised jail facilities.

(PNA file photo)

An official of the Philippine National Police (PNP) on Monday said poll-related violence in Mindanao is still relatively lower compared to previous elections.

In a press conference in Camp Crame, Quezon City, PNP Directorate for Operations Director, Maj. Gen. Valeriano de Leon said 100 percent of the polling precincts in the region have functioned.

De Leon said they are validating reports of pollrelated violence.

“Meron kasi nagrereport, they are blowing (this) out of proportion kaya vinavalidate bago namin kinoconfirm (There are people reporting about this and

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they are blowing [this] out of proportion. That is why we are validating this so we can confirm this first hand),” he said.

In a statement, BJMP chief Director Allan Iral said as of 2 p.m., there were no poll-related incidents in the onsite polling areas of the bureau’s jail facilities and offsite precincts.

He noted that 24,979 BJMP PDLs voted in the onsite polling places of its jail facilities while 1,320 inmates cast their votes offsite.

In the same press briefing, PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo said no reports of He said the number of vote stoppage have been voters might increase while received as of 3 p.m. the ballots from the special various polling places She said the PNP helped are transported to the the Commission on precincts.

Elections (Comelec) by escorting its personnel Despite being included and service providers to in the Comelec list of transport replacement qualified voters, some PDLs vote-counting machines decided not to vote foir while police visibility personal reasons while reassured voters that reports others were transferred to of failure of elections are Bureau of Corrections jails unfounded. or have been released.

(With a report from Priam Overall, she said the Nepomuceno/PNA/ polls can be classified as Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

NATIONAL NEWS

Newly elected officials, asked to prioritize public welfare President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has called on the new set of elected officials to earnestly serve the Filipino people and prioritize public welfare above everything.

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Thursday, May 12, thanked the medical and scientific community, as well as frontliners for remarkably fighting COVID-19 alongside his administration.

In his Talk to the People aired Thursday morning, President Duterte congratulated in advance those who will be victorious in the 2022 elections and also thanked the losing candidates.

“I am hopeful that you will serve the Filipino people with all your heart and ability, and prioritize the welfare of the general public above everything,” the President said.

And to the losing candidates, he thanked them for their participation in the electoral process, hoping that although they weren’t lucky, they will continue “to serve our people in your capacity as leaders in your respective sectors and communities”.

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte talks to the people after holding a meeting with key government officials at the Arcadia Active Lifestyle Center in Matina, Davao City on May 11, 2022. JOEY DALUMPINES/ PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

performing your sacred right and duty to vote.”

President Duterte likewise lauded the efforts of the Commission on Elections (Comelec), soldiers, policemen, poll workers, and volunteers in ensuring the peaceful conduct of the elections.

At the same time, he encouraged the Filipino public to continue Congratulating the Filipino supporting the Comelec people, he said: “You made and its civil society partners the elections successful so that the poll body could do its work correctly and because you have proclaim the winners. made your will known by

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President Duterte thanks scientists, medical frontliners for aiding gov’t in COVID-19 fight

The President expressed hope that the Comelec would find time to investigate the reported election glitches to ensure the sanctity of the ballot.

The chief executive also called on Filipinos to unite as he concludes his term.

“By noon of June 30, I invite the public to join me in running behind our new elected leaders so we can continue the difficult but rewarding task of building a stronger and more progressive nation,” he said.

PND

Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

“The Philippines was able to manage the deadly coronavirus disease largely due to the combined efforts of the country’s doctors, scientists, and other frontliners,” President Duterte said in his weekly Talk to the People program.

“I likewise thank the Filipino people for continuing to cooperate with the health authorities and for following health protocols. Pasalamat sa lahat, lahat na who participated in the fight against COVID,” he added.

Despite the low coronavirus infection rate in the country, President Duterte cautioned the public not be complacent and continue observing the government’s minimum public health standards such as frequent handwashing, social distancing, and mask wearing.

“We still have to follow the

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte presides over a meeting with key government officials prior to his “Talk to the People” at the Arcadia Active Lifestyle Center in Matina, Davao City on May 11, 2022. JOEY DALUMPINES/ PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

minimum requirements to avoid recontamination kung natamaan ka na because there is --- it can infect you again and again,” he pointed out.

surveillance to monitor any possible entry of emerging coronavirus disease variants in the country and prevent a surge.

According to Dumama, the entire health department is prepared to address any uptick in cases of emerging COVID-19 variants.

“Pero ‘yung requirement ng gobyerno sa mask sa tao nakatulong talaga ‘yan because it can really prevent itong ano, ‘yung surge. Nakatulong talaga He also appealed to Filipinos itong masks basta you wear it to get vaccinated and properly,” he said. boosted to enhance the population’s immunity to the The country has less than respiratory disease.

4,000 active COVID-19 cases, the President reported.

The DOH has recorded 109 new COVID-19 cases on May Meanwhile, Health 11, bringing the country’s Undersecretary Dr. Abdullah total number of infections Dumama, who was also to 3,687,428 with 3,623,661 present in the meeting, recoveries, 60,439 deaths, said the Department of and 3,328 active cases. PND Health (DOH) is doing strict

Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

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Local officials asked not to get involved in illegal drugs

NTF ELCAC Statement on the elections close ranks and rally behind the leaders the people have chosen. When they do well, the Filipino people win.

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has made an appeal to the newly elected local officials not to violate people’s trust by staying away from the illegal drug trade.

Because indeed, this is what vibrant democracies do: freely express their opinions- passionately even - understanding that these are all part and parcel of the mess and noise of a democracy.

“I hope that huwag lang sanang magsali uli itong mga — hindi naman ako nagwa-warning kasi paalis na ako,” President Duterte said during his Talk to the People program aired on Thursday.

“Ang pakiusap ko lang, iyong mga mayors to be true to — the governors and all of the officials especially those elected by the people — do not violate the trust that the people has reposed on us kasi lalo na ‘yung sa droga.”

Tackling the proliferation of illicit narcotics is an uphill battle for the government considering the huge amount of money involved, he said, stressing it can’t be addressed by simple police or military operation.

“Mahirap. Noon nga sabi ko milyon-milyon; ngayon, bilyon-bilyon na.

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And then we complete the journey by accepting with grace the will of the people.

Ang market nito is... Kaya ito talaga, it has to be a war. Hindi ito sabihin mo special operation ng pulis o military,” he pointed out, noting the drug trade is a sinister and virulent activity that affects a nation’s life.

Pabalik-balik ‘yung droga eh. Hindi talaga maano.”

Interior Secretary Eduardo Año said in his report to the President that although it’s election season, authorities have conducted 566 antidrug operations. Three hundred ninety seven of those operations are buybust operations.

The President said he would insist on a continuance of the drug war, and vowed to remain active fighting illegal drugs even if he becomes a private citizen after his term.

Pointing to the next administration, he said, “I hope that I said the next administration would be maybe a stronger pressure sa ginawa ko, mas mabuti.

The police buy-bust resulted in the arrest of 795 persons, with 14 individuals surrendering. One person died during the anti-drug operations, according to Secretary Año.

In total, authorities netted P76.8 million worth of shabu and marijuana.

PND

Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

The NTF ELCAC congratulates the Filipino people for taking hold of the reigns of our democracy and standing strong and united in the power of our electoral processes.

Truly May 9 was our shining moment as a Nation when we showed ourselves and the entire world that indeed, our beloved Philippines is a strong and vibrant democracy and that we have overcome enemies of the State who had tried to subvert the will of the people and silence our voices.

We must continuously reject those who pretend to be champions of democracy while at the same time have a most woeful inability to respect the very democracy they say they fight for.

We would also like to thank our President under whose watch and doubtless, on the strength of his strong leadership, the Filipino people has experienced one of the cleanest, most credible elections.

Truly he has once again shown us why it is, since he sat in office, he is the most trusted public official in his administration and why he has consistently enjoyed trust and approval ratings that most leaders in the democratic world can only dream of- even as he is about to step down in about a month.

We would like to enjoin our countrymen to unclench their fists, reach across political divides and whatever else it is we imagine divides us,

Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

It was Abraham Lincoln who said, “We are not enemies, but friends. We must not be enemies. Though passion may have strained, it must not break our bonds of affection. The mystic chords of memory will swell when again touched, as surely they will be, by the better angels of our nature.”

Mabuhay ang lahat nang lumahok sa ating halalan!

Salamat sa tibay, lakas ng loob at pagmamahal nyo sa Bayan at sumugal kayo.

Mabuhay ang Pilipinong nagmamahal ng tunay sa ating Bansa!

Mabuhay ang mahal nating Inang Pilipinas!

Undersecretary Lorraine Marie T. Badoy NTF ELCAC Spokesperson for Social Media Affairs And Sectoral Concerns

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The NTF-ELCAC Strongly Condemns the Agitation and False Propaganda Dissemination by the Disgruntled and Unruly Mob in Front of the COMELEC Office on the part of the mob.

It is our duty to inform this unruly mob to stay within the bounds of the law.

Our policemen kept them at bay.

Clearly, the mob are supporters of a presidential candidate and several senatorial candidates allied with the said presidential aspirant who lost ng bonggang bongga during the May 9, 2022 elections.

This is an act of desperation

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NPA-NDF and by their allied front organizations.

Let us protect our communities from the agitation, misinformation, deceptive mobilisation, and radicalization by the CPP-NPA-NDF terrorist organization.

Otherwise, you will lose whatever is left of your selfrespect and dignity by crying over something that has been decided already by the masses.

This is not an act of decent, rational, and well-meaning individuals.

Earlier today, a mob wearing black shirts, disturbed the peace in front of the COMELEC Office, shouting invectives and hurling insults at the COMELEC Officials.

A Call for Vigilance

This is a time for unity and solidarity.

Cope with your defeat.

Any attempt or overt act on your part leading to the disruption of the peace and order and causing harm to the public will be dealt with accordingly by our law enforcement agencies.

Do not make this ruckus and meltdown of emotions due to your massive defeat in the elections become a threat to national security.

The people has spoken.

Respect the will of the Filipino people.

Let us respect the voice and votes of the Filipino people.

If you cannot bear to accept the election results and be part of nation building.

Let us not allow the communist terrorist group to interfere with the sovereign will of the Filipino people.

Do not be a part of the problem.

This is a time for unity and solidarity.

Go home. Pray. Plant trees.

Wash the Dishes. Spend time with your Mom and Dad.

Do not force the government Do not waste your time and to use the full force of the law your future in the company against you. of a bunch of misguided and disgruntled mob who cannot Do not also allow yourselves be decent and gracious to be used and exploited by enough to accept the will of anti-government elements the Filipino people. to advance their selfish agenda.

Prosecutor 2 Flosemer Chris The people have spoken.

Gonzales Acting Spokesperson for Respect that voice.

Legal Affairs, NTF-ELCAC Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

The CPP-NPA-NDF and their allied front organizations may disrupt the peace and may make attempts to destabilize the peace and order of this country following their massive defeat during their electoral adventurism in the May 9, 2022 elections.

It is during this time that

we call on all peace loving Filipinos to defend our votes and to defend our country from all enemies, particularly, the ones from within.

Let us stand united against any attempt to disrupt the peace.

Let us protect our children from being exploited by the CPP-

Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

We owe it to ourselves and to our children to preserve our God given right to freedom and to enjoy the blessings of democracy, One people united under one God, and one Flag.

Prosecutor 2 Flosemer Chris Gonzales Acting Spokesperson for Legal Affairs, NTF-ELCAC

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Extensive lockdown not option vs.

Covid-19 surge: expert mababa talaga ang testing natin (We won’t know what’s happening, our cases, like what happened in the past we really have low testing [rate]),” he said.

Testing provides pertinent data that could protect the healthcare facilities.

(File photo)

A health expert said extensive lockdown is no longer being considered an option to curb possible surge of Covid-19 cases when highly transmissible subvariants of Omicron enter the country.

In a televised public briefing Wednesday, Dr. Rontgene Solante, Vaccine Experts Panel member, said monitoring of the hospital utilization rate nationwide is more important than lockdowns.

Department of Health

data on May 9 showed that only 14.5 percent or 4,546 out of 26,811 hospital beds dedicated for Covid-19 patients are utilized nationwide.

Apart from monitoring healthcare facilities, Solante said it was important to encourage people to be tested for Covid-19 when they have symptoms.

“If we don’t do the test ‘di natin alam kung ano ang nangyayari, ano ang mga kaso natin kagaya ng nangyari for the past week na

Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

“’Yun naman ang objective natin ngayon na (That’s our objective now that) healthcare facilities should always be ready,” Solante added.

There were 12,066 individuals tested in 297 testing laboratories nationwide on May 9.

To date, the total tally of individuals tested for Covid-19 in the 340 testing laboratories nationwide already reached 28,006,9714.

The country’s cumulative positivity rate is 14.2 percent. (PNA/Ma. Teresa Montemayor)

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9M booster shots target attainable before end of Duterte’s term

DOH to endorse CDC, Vax Institute creation to next admin the Centers for Disease Control bill in the Senate, in Congress, where our health care system, DOH, will be restructured, and there will be one institution to rely on in times of pandemic, infectious disease, and research and data surveillance),” Vergeire said.

The administration of 8 to 9 million booster shots is possible to achieve before President Rodrigo Duterte’s term ends on June 30, an infectious disease expert said Wednesday.

“Sa tingin ko attainable ‘yan kasi medyo bumagal lang nang konti during the election at saka mga campaign period (I think that’s attainable because the vaccination activities slowed down a bit during the election and campaign period),” Vaccine Experts Panel member Dr. Rontgene Solante said during a televised public briefing.

As of May 9, Department of Health (DOH) data showed that about 13.5 million fully vaccinated individuals have received their booster shots.

There are 37.8 million eligible individuals who have not received their additional dose

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(PNA file photo)

of protection against Covid-19.

Solante said the DOH would focus again on its advocacy to encourage more people to get their booster doses “in preparation for possible surge of infections” in the midst of Omicron subvariants.

Omicron subvariants BA.2.1.2.1, B.4 and B.5 are known for their high transmissibility rate.

The BA.2.1.2.1 subvariant was responsible for the recent spike of cases in the United States while the B.4 and B.5 subvariants in South Africa.

The current Covid-19

vaccines have low effectivity rate against these subvariants.

“Gayunpaman, ang purpose natin dito, ang objective natin dito, mapaigting natin ang first booster sa population because based on data, kapag meron kang first booster or third dose, malaki ang chance natin ng (Our purpose, our objective, to strengthen first booster administration because based on data, if you have first booster or third dose, we have a big chance for) protection even when with these subvariants, especially against severe disease,” Solante said. (PNA/Ma. Teresa Montemayor)

Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

The Department of Health (DOH) will endorse to the next administration the implementation strategies of the Universal Health Care Act and the establishment of the Vaccine Institute of the Philippines and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

In an online media forum Tuesday, Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said the DOH would push for proper approaches to be observed in “transitioning from the pandemic to the new normal”.

As the DOH has planned and informed the public “to live with the virus”, Vergeire said the agency would urge the President-elect to continue the Covid-19 vaccination

Senate Bill No. 2505 or the Philippine Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Act will establish the Centers for Health Statistics, Surveillance and Epidemiology, Health Evidence, and Reference (NTF Against Covid-19 photo) Laboratories under the DOH. program and the implementation of minimum A counterpart bill in the public health standards.

House of Representatives The DOH likewise sees the was approved in July 2021. crucial role of a CDC in the country’s goal to move out Vergeire noted that the of the pandemic and ensure Covid-19 pandemic health care for all. highlighted the country’s “Andiyan po ang Centers for Disease Control bill na pinapasa sa Senado sa Kongreso kung saan diyan po mare-restructure ang ating health care system. ang ating DOH na magkaroon tayo ng isang institusyon kung saan dito na tayo magre-rely pagdating sa mga pandemya, pagdating sa infectious disease, pagdating dito sa ating bansa at pagdating sa ating pagre-research and data surveillance (There’s

Caraga Infocus • May 7-13, 2022

need for a vaccine institute that would promote the protection against infectious diseases and pandemics.

“The National Health Security Act kung saan nandiyan po, it will link with the CDC for us to be more resilient during this time na nagkakaroon tayo ng krisis sa ating bansa (that will be linked with the CDC for us to be resilient during this time of crisis in our country),” she added. (PNA/ Ma. Teresa Montemayor)

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