Caraga InFocus - November 26-December 02, 2016

CONTENTS 26 Nov. - 02 December 2016 Volume 1, No. 35

REGIONAL NEWS

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Mindanao Week of Peace kicks-off in Butuan City Empowered farmers: Key to a sustainable vegetable industry DSWD Caraga wins infographics contest

PROVINCIAL NEWS

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DOLE turns over 15 computer sets to SurSur PESO managers

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36 soldiers promoted to next rank in SurSur

HEALTH NEWS brown than white: 26 Better moving towards a healthier form of rice

MINDANAO NEWS

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President Duterte asks support for Mindanao peace & development

COVER First of the 251 schools for lumads to be built in Mindanao inaugurated in AgSur town

NATIONAL NEWS administration 32 Duterte investing $23-B in tourism infra, says DOF exec

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PH economy posts 7.1 % GDP growth in 3rd quarter of 2016

Norte to join 18-day 15 Surigao campaign to end VAW

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DTI awards 10 business establishments from Surigao City

Caraga turns over 17 DSWD P4.8M infra project in Surigao

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Norte town

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Marijuana, shabu confiscated in AgSur, Bukidnon

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farmers train 22 Agrarian on credit facilitation and delinquency management

to receive equipment 23 AgNor from GIZ-COSERAM guv approves P1.4M 24 AgNor resettlement site in Santiago town

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News Briefs Caraga region currently has 4 treatment hubs for HIV/AIDS: 1) Butuan Medical Center, 2) Caraga Regional Hospital, 3) Adela Serra Ty Memorial Medical Center, & 4) D.O. Plaza Memorial Hospital. While, 2 accredited Social Hygiene Clinics in Butuan & Surigao City are operating in the region.

The Harvest Festival & Farmers Training Graduation in Brgy. Alegria, San Francisco, Agusan del Sur is the biggest event of the Winrock-PCCP & East West Seeds’ project wherein more than a hundred farmers showcase what they learned from the field school.

The MASA MASID program is a community-based initiative to engage volunteers in the fight against criminality, corruption, and illegal drugs.

The HIV/AIDS & ART Registry of the Philippines reported that in Caraga region, 7 cases were tallied for the month of October & 73 cases were tallied from January-October 2016 while a total of 313 HIV cases from January, 1984 to October, 2016

Cover Story

First of the 251 schools for lumads to be built in Mindanao inaugurated in AgSur town

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GUSAN DEL SUR – Underscoring the government’s commitment to promote inclusive development, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga through the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa KahirapanComprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS) Classroom Construction for Lumads (CCL) program in partnership with Department of Education (DepEd), National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), and Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), successfully conducted the recently held turn-over and inauguration ceremony of the one unit-two classroom school building for lumads sub-project at Sitio Durian, Barangay Lucac, San Francisco, this province.

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“Nagpasalamat ako sa tanan nagpaluyo sa malampusong pag implementar sa proyekto. Nalipay kami kay ang among estudyante, among mga anak, dili na magbagtas ug ingani ka lisud para lang mu eskwela. Ug kini among nakuha pinaagi sa tabang sa gobyerno sa amo mga IP (I thank everyone who is behind the successful implementation of the project. I am happy because our students, our children, will no longer have to hike along a difficult terrain just to go to school. And we attained this through the government’s help for us IPs),” España said.

REGIONAL NEWS

One of the community volunteers in Lucac, Mercedita España is full of gratitude and appreciation as she shared her experience during the implementation of the sub-project.

DSWD Caraga General Administration and Support Services Division (GASSD) Chief Ramel Jamen and DepEd’s Indigenous People’s Education Office (IPsEO) Coordinator Rozzano Rufino along with NCIP representatives and Tribal Councils led the ceremonial ribbon-cutting and unveiling of the sub-project marker. The said sub-project amounting to Php1, 680, 333 is the first of the 251 schools for lumads awarded in the different regions Datu Danny Bando, a community of Mindanao, which was completed volunteer and purok leader of Sitio and turned over.

Durian, came out of the hospital just

The tribal school building was so he could not miss the inauguration officially received by the local ceremony of their sub-project. government and education officials, “Akong gidasig akong community volunteers, as well as para makatambong parents and beneficiary students of the kaugalingun project. The Regional and Sub-Regional aning importanteng okasyon sa atong Program Management Office (R/ komunidad. Kay kini katumanan na SRPMO) staff of Kalahi-CIDSS Caraga sa dugay natong mga damgo (I along with the Area Coordinating encouraged myself just so I could attend Team (ACT) of San Francisco for CCL this important event in our community.

Because this is the fulfilment of our longwitnessed the ceremonial rites. time dreams), “Bando shared.

Before the school was built, DepEd’s IPsEO Coordinator students of the area had to walk 1.5 kilometers of rugged path just to reach Rozzano Rufino emphasized that the main objective of the project is to the nearest barangay school.

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provide accessible and culture-based cooperation from the community to education for the IPs. ensure sustainability of the project.

“Bahagi po ito ng pagpupursige “Sa kinatibuk-an dako ang ng programa hindi lang upang among kalipay na natapos na kini nga masiguro na walang bata ang maiiwan proyekto. Angay natong pakpakan kundi na yung pag-aaral mismo na ang tanan na nalimbigit ani nga nakaugat sa kultura ay kailangan proyekto (As a whole, we are happy nating ipagdiwang at palakasin (This that this project has been completed. is part of the efforts of the program We applaud everyone who has been not only to ensure that no child will be part of this project), “Jamen said. left behind but also to celebrate and strengthen the education rooted in “Kini na napamatud-an na culture), “ Rufino said. dako atong mabuhat ubos sa pagtinabangay. Busa naghinaot kami

Culture-Based Education. The na ang pag-amuma niining pasilidad school building implemented in Sitio angkonon kini susama sa inyong Durian was designed conforming to balay para kini mulahotay sa dugay the cultural preference of the tribe and na panahon ( This is a proof that we can built through the collaborative efforts do great things if we work together. of the community.

That is why we hope that you will take care of this facility just like how you

DSWD Caraga GASSD Chief would with your homes so this will be Ramel Jamen commended everyone sustained for a long period of time), “ who has been a part of the project’s he added. (DSWD-13/PIA-Agusan del completion and encouraged continued Sur)

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Photo Gallery

KWADRADO A four-man art exhibition Art Exhibit for a Cause 26 November 2016

REGIONAL NEWS

Mindanao Week of Peace kicks-off in Butuan City By: Venus L. Garcia

Individuals from religious groups, representatives from the government and private sectors, and media personalities joined in the gathering to reaffirm a hope of achieving a common aspiration to live in unity, harmony and peace with one another regardless of religious belief, culture and status in life.

This year’s weeklong MWOP celebration is anchored on the theme, “Protect and Respect Life” which will run from November 26 to December 2, 2016. Stakeholders took their part in the candle lighting activity to profess conviction in achieving peace and unity not only in the continents of Mindanao but of the entire nation.

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BUTUAN CITY – As the Mindanao Week of Peace (MWOP) celebration opens this year, the Caraga Conference for Peace and Development (CCPD) through convenor Most Rev. Juan de Dios Pueblos spearheaded the ‘Healing Prayer for Peace’ at the Guingona Park on Saturday, this city.

In giving the statement of purpose of the activity, Pastor Nolan Lloren emphasized that people have to acknowledge the holy spirit and plead to the Almighty Father for healing of the nation, and ask for the mercy and grace to find in each person’s heart the real essence of peace in order to bring forth to others the same message.

Lloren also cited instances wherein Butuan City was spared from different calamities and he attributed it mainly to the strong faith and devotion of the townfolk in bringing harmony.

Meanwhile, in behalf of Butuan City mayor Ronnie Vicente Lagnada, vice mayor Jose Aquino relayed that the MWOP celebration is envisioned to

The Movie for Peace Contest, a project initiated by the Caraga Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) was also officially launched during the opening ceremony of the MWOP. According to Merle Dawn Comidoy of the GIZ-Coseram, out of the nine entries, six were chosen to compete for the final round of judging.

Entries will be uploaded at the ‘PIA CARAGA’ youtube acccount for viewing wherein most viewed movie will also be awarded on December 1, 2016.

“Through the week-long observance, the bishops, ulama, imams, priests, pastors and religious men and women of Mindanao hope to raise the consciousness of the people of the need to work together to attain our dream for peace in the spirit of solidarity,” said Most Rev. Pueblos.

(VLG/JPG/PIA-Caraga)

REGIONAL NEWS

turn chaos and conflicts into peace and harmony – an instrument for genuine transformation.

Lagnada further urges everyone to do their share in attaining lasting peace despite cultural diversity as Mindanaoans deserve to have a tranquil and orderly land, a peaceloving people with common aspirations.

In recognizing God as the supreme being, the source of life and peace, an interfaith prayer was also offered. It aims to empower people to live in law of love to sustain peace and prosperity.

Also, a bike for peace dubbed ‘Sikadayahan’ started its lapse with a route from Guingona Park, Bancasi Rotonda back to Guingona Park. It was a one-of-a-kind event participated in by energetic and skilled local motorcyclists advocating for peace.

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REGIONAL NEWS

Empowered farmers: Key to a sustainable vegetable industry By: Vanessa Pontillo

BUTUAN CITY - Empowering the farmers with adequate knowledge, appropriate technologies and ample support will lead to a sustainable vegetable industry in the region.

Presently, there is high demand but low supply of vegetables in the region.

Data from the Philippine Statistics (PSA) show that Caraga has a total of 4,900 hectares planted with vegetables.

During the crafting of the roadmap for vegetables, the Department of Agriculture (DA) Caraga High-Value Crops Program Coordinator Marco Antonio Morido said there is a need to increase production areas and this has been supported by the DA through seed distribution which aims to lower production cost of farmers as well as provide them access to quality seeds.

Agusan del Norte Vegetable Growers Association President Dominador Buenafe said that the vegetable industry of the region can

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be more competitive if local producers are given the needed assistance, especially in financing and marketing.

Upon discussion, it was noted that vegetables from Caraga are expensive mainly because of the high cost of inputs. Some crops particularly the highland vegetables are not suitable for the Caraga climate.

Because of the low supply, vegetable growers of Caraga have weak market linkages since they often cannot meet the required volume of buyers. “The farm clustering approach is ideal for the region in order for small scale farmers to meet the demands of the market thus we are promoting this to our vegetable growers here,” Morido also said.

inputs of the stakeholders on the issues affecting the industry and how to steer it to the right direction. The activity was held on November 11 in San Francisco, Agusan del Sur and was participated by farmers, Local Government Units, and DA attached agencies.

Elene Espina, a vegetable grower from San Francisco, Agusan del Sur said that with the developments to come, she looks forward to the day that they will no longer be ordinary farmers but rather farmer-entrepreneurs who are able to stand on their own. (DACaraga)

REGIONAL NEWS

The farm clustering approach is done by merging several smallholder farms committed to establishing a market-linked agro-enterprise within a defined territory. This is a way to increase the productivity of the cluster thus making them more competitive.

Currently, the bulk of vegetables produced locally, apart from those marketed within the region, are sold to Cebu and Leyte.

DA-Caraga conducted the crafting of a roadmap to obtain the

DSWD Caraga wins infographics contest By: Abegail R. Alvarez

BUTUAN CITY - The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) through the Social Marketing and Planning Units won the contest on Best Display of Statistical Practices Using Infographics during the 27th National Statistics Month (NSM) Celebration.

The award was given during the closing celebration of the said activity led by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Regional Statistical Services on October 28, 2016 held at Almont Hotel’s Inland Resort, this city.

Part of the guidelines of the said contest is to present statistical information of the department from 2014 to the present through Infographics and the display should include excellent renditions of all the necessary elements of statistical information that are highly attractive and compatible with the data presented. The contest is open to

all Regional Line Agencies whose offices are located in the city.

While the criteria for judging are the following; content (50 percent), visual appeal (30 percent), and mechanics (20 percent) with a total of 100 percent.

With this, the department received Certificate of Recognition and a cash prize amounting to P7,000. While the Department of Tourism (DOT) and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) won the second and third place, respectively. (Social Marketing Unit/ DSWD Field Office Caraga)

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Photo Gallery Mindanao Week of Peace 2016 Opening Ceremonies Guingona Park, Butuan City 26 November 2016

By: Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Caraga turned over 15 computer sets to the 15 Public Employment Service Office (PESO) Managers of the province.

PROVINCIAL NEWS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

DOLE turns over 15 computer sets to SurSur PESO managers

According to Romelyn Bactol of DOLE Surigao del Sur provincial office, the 15 computer sets are intended for the PESO offices in the cities of Tandag and Bislig, and municipalities of Barobo, Bayabas, Cagwait, Carrascal, Cortes, Hinatuan, Lingig, Madrid, Marihatag, San Miguel, Office through an ordinance.

Tagbina and Tago.

“These computer sets are one of the indications that the DOLE is committed to be of service, to help you and to support you in your work and advocacy in the implementation of the DOLE programs,” said DOLE Caraga regional director Atty.

Evelyn R. Ramos.

The said computer equipment according to Bactol will be used for the implementation of the DOLE Skills Registry Program (SRS).

SRS is DOLE’s program for nationwide registration of skilled workers which also facilitates job matching to available job

Surigao del Sur Provincial Agriculturist vacancies both local and overseas. and concurrent provincial PESO All LGUs in Surigao del Sur had been Manager Marcos Quico thanked DOLE for the support. He likewise committed implementing and using this system both to work for the possible creation of the the online and offline version, Bactol Provincial Public Employment Service added. (NGBT/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

36 soldiers promoted to next rank in SurSur By: Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – The 36th Infantry Battalion (36IB), Philippine Army has promoted 36 soldiers to their next higher rank on Tuesday, Nov. 15 held at the battalion’s headquarters in Sitio Upper Mabago, Barangay Dayoan, Tago, Surigao del Sur.

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Carrascal mayor and Municipal Peace and Order Council (MPOC) Chairperson Vicente H. Pimentel III was the guest of honor during the occasion.

Lt. Col Randolph Roxas, 36IB commanding officer, led the pinning of the ranks and insignia to the newlypromoted officers with the presence of Carrascal mayor Pimentel.

Of the 36 awardees, 26 Private First Class (PFC) were promoted to Corporal (CPL), nine Corporal were promoted to Sergeant (SGT) and one Staff Sergeant (SSG) was promoted to Technical Sergeant (TSG), it was learned.

According to 36IB civil military operations officer Al Anthony Pueblas, their promotions were based on their performance on the aspect of administrative and combat accomplishments. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)

By: Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte – The provincial government of Surigao del Norte through the Provincial Gender and Development Coordinating Council (PGADCC), other women organizations and other multi-sectoral groups of the province will join in the national observance of the 18Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW) from November 25 to December 12, 2016.

Provincial GAD Focal Person and Provincial Center for Women’s Training and Development Officer Florian Tan-Trinidad bared that in the province the commemoration will start on November 25 with a thanksgiving mass at 8:00 A.M at the Cathedral Church simultaneous with the opening of the ‘Bazaar for Juana’ at the Provincial Gym followed by a motorcade around the city and short opening program.

to Sison Women’s Organization, Zumba, KATROPA seminar, Harmonize Gender and Development Guidelines seminar, Youth Convergence Activity, LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender) summit, Children’s Festival, Teacher’s Summit, PGADCC Team Building and Christmas Party, and orientation forum on R.A. 9262 or the Anti-Violence Against Women and Children Act and R.A. 7877 or the Anti Sexual Harassment Law.

Trinidad also bared other lined-up activities for the 18-day observance which include turn-over of crochet materials for livelihood

This year’s observance is anchored on the theme, “VAW Free Community Starts With Me.” (SDR/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Surigao Norte to join 18-day campaign to end VAW

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

DTI awards 10 business establishments from Surigao City By: Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte – Ten establishments in the city received plaque of recognition from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) during the grand opening of the Negosyo Konsyumer at iba pa (NKATB) held recently at Almont Inland Resort, Butuan City.

According to DTI Surigao del Norte provincial director Celestino L. Negapatan, the NKATB is a national initiative which was undertaken in the regional level to highlight the integrated services of DTI to the clienteles and also served as a venue for the said awarding.

He said that out of ten awardees, eight were 2006 BAGWIS awardees which include Eduhome Enterprises, Metro Surigao Shopping Center, Inc., United General Merchandise, J. Marketing Corporation, Tri-Mix Enterprises, RSY Multi Trade Shop, Mercury Drug Corporation, and Palma Superstore, while, the 2016 BAGWIS awardees are

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Absolute Essentials Traders, Inc, and UNICITY Gen. Merchandise.

DTI Undersecretary Zenaida Cuizon-Maglaya handed over the awards to the said establishments and assisted by DTI Caraga regional director Brielgo O. Pagaran.

“The awards are in recognition of their continued response in carrying out good business practices in their establishments and also because they are considered partners of DTI in the delivery of services to the consumers,” Negapatan added. (SDR/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

By: April Mae N. Waban & Marko Davey D. Reyes

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte – As part of the government’s role in local poverty reduction, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) through the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KalahiCIDSS) Field Office Caraga inaugurated and turned-over six completed community subprojects amounting to P4,856,000 to its beneficiary barangays in the municipality of Sta. Monica this province last November 3, 2016.

DSWD Caraga General Administration and Support Services Division (GASSD) Chief Ramel Jamen and Municipal Mayor Fernando Dolar along with Vice Mayor Arwela Dolar and Sangguniang Bayan (SB) members graced the inauguration and turnover ceremony of the community subprojects.

PROVINCIAL NEWS

DSWD Caraga turns over P4.8M infra project in Surigao Norte town

Organizations (CSOs), and KalahiCIDSS community volunteers, and nonvolunteers. Also, present were the SubRegional Program Management Office (SRPMO) staffs of Kalahi-CIDSS Caraga along with the Area Coordinating Team (ACT) of Sta. Monica.

The Kalahi-CIDSS sub-projects include the following: 220 Linear-Meter

The said event was also witnessed Concrete Pathway in Barangay Abad

by Barangay Captains, Civil Society Santos amounting to P738,000, 20 Units

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

Solar-Powered Street Lights in Barangay Bailan amounting to P678,000, 220 Linear-Meter Concrete Pathway in Barangay Libertad amounting to P760,000, 25 Units Solar-Powered Street Lights in Barangay Mabini amounting to P842,000, 55 Linear-Meter Drainage Canal in Barangay Magsaysay amounting to P993,000 and 197 LinearMeter Concrete Pavement in Barangay Rizal amounting to P845,000.

The municipality of Sta. Monica allotted an amount of P460,829 cash and in kind donation as counterpart for the realization and completion of the mentioned projects.

gajud ang insidente sa droga sa amung barangay. Ako malipayun usab nga nakatabang sa paghimugso sa maong proyekto kaubanan sa akong mga covolunteers (I am grateful for Kalahi-CIDSS because we finally have light during the night which in turn will lessen drugrelated activities in our barangay. I am also happy to be part of the project’s successful implementation along with my co-volunteers),” Escobal shared.

“Dako usab ang akong pasalamat niining programa sa gobyerno kay nahatagan kami ug kaalam ug kapasidad sa pag implementar sa among mga proyekto inubanan sa pag-facilitate sa Kalahi-CIDSS Staffs.

Elizabeth E. Alaba, a Procurement Team (PT) volunteer of Brgy. Garcia felt Busa kami nanghinaut nga proud and happy to be able to witness aduna pa kami dugang nga proyekto, the event. kay willing gihapon kami muserbisyo alang sa kalambuan sa amung mga

“Malipayun ako nga komunidad (I am also grateful for mamahimung saksi sa maong aktibidad programs like these of the government og isa sa instrumento sa kalambuan sa because we are capacitated to amung komunidad (I am happy to be implement our development projects one of the witnesses of this event and through the guidance of Kalahi-CIDSS be an instrument for the development Staffs. That’s why we hope that we will of my community),” said Alaba. have more projects like this because we are still willing to volunteer for the

Barangay Sub-Project Committee development of our community),” she Chairperson of Bailan, Deofelyn E. added.

Escobal expressed her gratitude for the 20 Units Solar-Powered Street Lights Kalahi-CIDSS is one of the programs now installed in their community. of DSWD which aims to empower communities and improve local

“Dako ang akung pasalamat sa governance to achieve sustainable Kalahi-CIDSS kay natagaan na gajud ug and inclusive development. (Social kahayag ang amung mga mangitngit Marketing Unit/DSWD Field Office nga kagabhion, tungod niini naminusan Caraga/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

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Photo Gallery Mindanao Week of Peace 2016 Culmination Program Joint 10th CCPD Anniversary Launching of the MASA MASID Program Awarding Ceremony of the Movie for Peace Balanghai Hotel and Convention Center, Butuan City 01 December 2016

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Marijuana, shabu confiscated in AgSur, Bukidnon By: Capt. Joe Patrick Martinez

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY- Two sacks of marijuana and eight sachets of shabu were confiscated in two separate buy bust operations in Bukidnon and Agusan del Sur on Nov. 20, 2016.

In Bukidnon, joint elements of Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), Crime Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), and 8th Infantry Battalion of Philippine Army successfully confiscated the two sacks of marijuana weighing ten kilograms with an estimated value of P300,000 at Sitio Tagiptip, Brgy Silae, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon. Â

It was learned that the marijuana plants came from the hinterlands of

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Cabanglasan, Bukidnon and was about to be delivered to different areas in the province. The recovered items were immediately brought to the office of CIDG in Bukidnon. Â

Meanwhile in Bunawan, Agusan del Sur, elements of Bunawan Municipal Police Station and 26th Infantry Battalion successfully arrested during a joint antiillegal drugs operation a certain Rodel Garrame Fojas, 35 years old, married, and a resident of Brgy. Kapatungan,

“I congratulate the government forces that are involved in the recent anti-illegal drug operations. With our strong teamwork, I strongly believe that we could easily eradicate the proliferation of the illegal drugs in the two regions,” said Major General Benjamin Madrigal Jr., commander of 4th Infantry Division. (4ID Phil. Army/PIAAgusan del Sur)

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Trento, Agusan del Sur.

They recovered from his possession the following items: eight sachets of shabu with an estimated market value of P76,700.00, two pieces of aluminum foil, one piece lighter and P500.00 peso bill as marked money. The arrested person and recovered items were brought to Bunawan Municipal Police Station for proper disposition.

Photo Gallery KAPISANAN NG MGA BRODKASTER NG PILIPINASE KBP - Butuan City Chapter Induction of Officers and Fellowship Night Alicias Resto, Imadejas Subd., Butuan City 29 November 2016

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

Agrarian farmers train on credit facilitation and delinquency management By: Gil E. Miranda

BUTUAN CITY - Officers and Admin staffs of the Baleguian Organic Farmers Irrigators Associations, (BOFIA) underwent a two-day Credit Facilitation and Delinquency Management Seminar held at Brgy. Baleguian Jabonga, Agusan del Norte on Nov. 10-11, 2016.

The seminar enhanced the officers and operational staffs’ technical skills in managing credit operation. BOFIA is providing agricultural credit assistance under the Agrarian Production Credit Program (APCP) of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) to members.

The activity was also aimed to

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meet the needs of the organization to address the credit risk and create a contingency plan when the borrower failed to meet its obligation.

BOFIA chairman Winifredo S. Maldo said that the organization is facing some challenges in handling

“The training gave a clear knowledge in credit management against the risk of not paying when the members encountered losses from agricultural uncertainties,” Tapere said.

BOFIA is a recipient of a multimillion projects of DAR ‘s various interventions from APCP to Agrarian Reform Community Connectivity and Economic Support Services (ARCCESS) and Irrigation Facility under Agrarian Reform Infrastructure Support Program phase III (ARISP III).

The seminar was conducted by the DAR in Agusan del Norte in partnership with the Propegemus Foundation, Inc., an accredited training provider of Cooperative Development Authority (CDA). (DAR-Agusan del Norte)

PROVINCIAL NEWS

their credit operation, as the number of members who set to avail financial assistance for agricultural production is still growing.

“The training enhanced the ability of some officers and credit staffs in performing the credit operations and create flexible solutions to help members stand up against adversities,” Maldo said.

“Thanks to DAR’s intervention in providing us with technical knowledge that we need to sustain our operation,” Maldo added.

Propegemus Executive Director Arnold Tapere said that the training will capacitate the officers and members, who aspire to be knowledgeable in handling credit issues and concerns.

AgNor to receive equipment from GIZ-COSERAM By: Aimee B. Sienes

BUTUAN CITY - The provincial government of Agusan del Norte is set to receive 12 units brand new Oregon 650 GPS and two units Toshiba TECRA CSO-8108E laptops from the GIZ Conflict Sensitive Resource and Asset Management (COSERAM) Program for the implementation of the project: Enhancing the Capacities of the Provincial, City and Municipal Planning Teams and Conflict Sensitive Resource Management in the Province.

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Agusan del Norte recently authorized Provincial Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba to sign the Deed of Donation by and between the province and GIZ COSERAM for the said GPS and laptops through Sanggunian Resolution No. 046-2016, authored by Provincial Board Member Aquino W.

Gambe.

Said deed of donation is needed to serve as basis for the donor, GIZ COERAM, to effectively transfer the said set of equipment to the province for its proper utilization in the planning program of the province and its municipalities and city. (LGU-Agusan del Norte)

AgNor guv approves P1.4M resettlement site in Santiago town By: Aimee B. Sienes

BUTUAN CITY - The provincial government of Agusan del Norte is all set for the purchase of the 12,072 square meter lot amounting to P1,400,352 to be utilized as resettlement site for Barangay Poblacion 1 in the municipality of Santiago, Agusan del Norte.

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The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Agusan del Norte recently authorized Provincial Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba, through Sanggunian Resolution No. 059-2016, authored by Provincial Board Member Aquino W. Gambe, to sign for and in behalf of the province the Deed of Absolute Sale by and between the province of Agusan del Norte and Clarita M. Luzon for the acquisition of the said parcel of land.

The Committee on Human Settlements, Land Use and Provincial Properties, chaired by Board Member Gambe, in its study, found the project to be beneficial for the informal settlers in the said barangay for them to be able to own a lot where their permanent houses will be constructed, thus, recommended to grant authority to the provincial governor.

This has been a continuous effort of Gov. Angel’s administration to provide quality social services to the people of Agusan del Norte. (LGU-Agusan del Norte)

Photo Gallery 56th RLECC Meeting Police Regional Office 13 (Caraga) Butuan City 29 November 2016

Commission on Population Caraga 2016 Awards Night

Goat 2geder Hotel & Restaurant, Imadejas, Butuan City 29 November 2016

HEALTH NEWS

Better brown than white: moving towards a healthier form of rice By: Charina A. Javier

The “unli-rice� phenomenon is proof that rice is the most commonly consumed food item of Filipinos.

Rice is the staple food among Filipinos which contributes about 35.7 percent of the average daily individual food intake, making it the major source of carbohydrates in the Filipino diet. The Food Consumption Survey (FCS) by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST) showed that the daily rice intake per person has risen from 272 grams in 1993 to 291 grams in 2003 and 307 grams 2008.

Rice has several types, varieties and forms. Its type is usually based on grain size, thus we have, long grain, medium grain, short grain or waxy. Its varieties usually depend of the source or area where rice is grown. In the Philippines, common varieties include Dinorado, Sinandomeng, Milagrosa, Maharlika, Angelika, Malagkit, Wagwag, Ifugao or mountain rice, among others.

Rice forms include rough or paddy rice which still includes the hull, brown rice where only the hull is removed, and regular milled rice which is often referred to as white or polished rice.

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Brown rice has higher nutrient, vitamin and mineral content despite poor acceptability and shelf life in comparison to milled rice. Brown rice is more nutritious than white rice in terms of niacin, thiamin, phosphorus and calcium. Moreover, it provides all the necessary carbohydrate requirements of an individual just like white rice. The dietary fiber it contributes is attributed to the prevention of risk of obesity, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular

diseases cancer.Â

and

some

forms

of

Brown rice is a healthier alternative that will hopefully reduce the demand for white rice while increasing the intake for micronutrients and dietary fiber. These nutrients has been associated with the prevention of micronutrient deficiencies and lifestyle-related diseases like diabetes and some forms of cancer.

HEALTH NEWS

Brown rice, the unmilled form of rice, is gaining popularity today primarily due to its nutritional benefits. The bran layer of brown rice is known to be rich in dietary fiber, minerals and B vitamins.

At present, the Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST) has successfully developed the technology for extending the shelf-life of brown rice so that now, we can store it at a much longer time. The Institute is also currently undertaking studies on characterization and bioavailability to support the growing interest about this food.

For more information on food and nutrition, contact: Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department of Science and Technology, General Santos Ave., Bicutan, Taguig City; Tel/Fax Number: 837-2934 and 837-3164; e-mail: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph, mar_v_c@yahoo.com; FNRI-DOST website: http://www.fnri.dost.gov. ph. (FNRI-DOST S&T Media Service/ PIA-Caraga)

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Photo Gallery RPSB - 13 DRUG AWARENESS CAMPAIGN and BLOOD LETTING Robinson Place, Butuan City 01 December 2016

Mindanao Week of Peace 2016 Peace Forum: IP-People

St. Peter College Seminary, Ampayon, Butuan City 30 November 2016

MINDANAO NEWS

President Duterte asks support for Mindanao peace & development

MANILA- President Rodrigo Duterte appealed to the Muslim people to help his administration achieve peace in Mindanao that in the end would bring economic prosperity in the region.

Addressing the troops in Butig, Lanao del Sur on Wednesday, the President said he does not want to wage war with fellow Filipinos and this is the reason why the government has embarked on peace initiatives on different fronts.

But with the renewed violence in Mindanao, particularly in Lanao provinces as a result of Maute Group’s terrorist activities, the President said he

may lose his patience and make harsh response.

He said he does not want to fan more violence to fight terrorism and illegal drugs pleading the Moro people to support his government attain peace and stability.

“Hindi ako nananakot ng tao. I am pleading to my Moro brothers and sisters: Please help us. We will build a nation,” the President said.

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MINDANAO NEWS 30

Duterte announced that he will Reiterating his thrust to adopt a open the barter trade in Zamboanga federal form of government, he said City soon. his government will begin the structure for federalism next year setting aside

“If you want I will restore the barter however provisions of the Constitutions trade. I will open Zamboanga again. that are not acceptable.

Walang problema iyan,” he said.

With regard to the military

The Chief Executive vowed to offensive against the Maute Group, introduce reforms in Mindanao once a the President said in an interview in peace deal is achieved to improve the Cagayan de Oro City that the military living conditions of the people. will continue the offensive against the terrorist organization.

He also said he will prioritize the region in giving assistance once foreign “They (military) have to go on with development aid comes. the operations. What is there to stop?

Wala naman nagpapakita ng sincerity

President Duterte particularly diyan so the fight goes on,” he said. pleaded to all the Moro political leaders, men of influence, and scholars The President visited the members to continue participating in the ongoing of the Presidential Security Group peace efforts to find solutions to the confined at Camp Evangelista Station region’s problems.

Hospital in Cagayan de Oro City who were hurt by the explosion of an

He said he is open for the adoption improvised explosive device in Marawi of Sharia Law in some areas where it will City on Tuesday, Nov. 29. (PNA) LGI/ be suitable as long as it is fair for both PND/RSM the Muslims and the Christians.

Photo Gallery

Bloodletting-Mindanao Week of Peace 2016 BUNTIS CONGRESS Ang kuminidad Theme: “Protect and Respect Life” nga luwas sa VAW magsugod DUGO MO, BUHAY KO Bishop’s KANAKO RIACAT-VAWC Home, Ampayon Butuan City Rosario’s Grill, Butuan City 29 November 2016

29 November 2016

NATIONAL NEWS

Duterte administration investing $23-B in tourism infra, says DOF exec MANILA - A hefty part of President Duterte’s unparalleled public investments on his watch will be devoted to infrastructure servicing the tourism industry in keeping with his goal of transforming this sector into one major engine of growth to sustain the Philippines’ momentum as one of Asia’s fastest-growing economies.

Finance Undersecretary Grace Karen Singson said that under the Duterte administration’s National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP), the Philippines will have to invest $23 billion in tourism infrastructure between now and 2022, when the President’s term ends, to make the sector “not only sustainable and highly competitive in the region but also socially responsible to propel inclusive growth.”

Singson said these proposed NTDP investments cover road networks, airports, cruise ports, railway, site infrastructure, tourism enterprise zones, transport units, accommodation facilities, and aircraft acquisition.

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She said that under the NTDP, the government has targeted to build as much as 2,620 kilometers of tourism roads over the next six years, from a baseline of 900 kilometers, which will require an investment of $2 billion.

“As many renowned tourist sites in the Philippines, such as the Banaue Rice Terraces, the Chocolate Hills and Mt. Apo require long road travel, the Tourism Development Plan has also included the upgrading and construction of access roads to tourism sites and tourism development areas,” Singson said at the recent 11thASEAN Finance Ministers’ Investor Seminar in Jakarta, Indonesia.

She said the 10-point agenda provides for accelerated spending in infrastructure from 3 percent to over 5 percent of the GDP, “and we believe this will be a boost to tourism infrastructure.”

“In the Philippines, we recognize the need to develop our tourism industry,

as its importance to the Philippine Economy has grown. Tourism has become the third largest contributor to the Philippines’ GDP, after the trade and real estate Sectors. As GDP growth for the Philippines reached 5.2 percent in 2015, tourism accounted for 1.11 percentage points of the increase,” Singson said.

Singson said the government’s goal is to double the number of foreign tourist arrivals, increase tourism revenues by 90 percent and generate 14.4 percent of total Philippine jobs from the tourism sector by the time Mr. Duterte steps aside in 2022.

“With your support for our tourism infrastructure investment agenda, various reforms on the industry’s business climate, products, outreach, facilities and services, as well as, having the Philippines as one of your major tourism destinations, we look forward to working [with ASEAN] to reach these targets,” Singson said.

Singson noted that improving infrastructure and facilities tops the new government’s concerns in the tourism sector because accessibility constraints pose challenges to travellers who plan to visit the most scenic places and other tourist destinations that are spread across this archipelago’s 7,000-plus islands.

Hence, she said, the NTDP is anchored on major infrastructure development initiatives over the next five years that include the improvement of airports in 11 tourism gateways.

These would involve the rehabilitation, construction of access

NATIONAL NEWS

Singson, the undersecretary of the Department of Finance for Privatization and Special Concerns, represented Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III at the this forum of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

She said that as an ASEAN member, the Philippines can benefit from the regional bloc’s actions towards greater connectivity, especially in terms of air and sea travel, as well as improving travel facilitation, such as the full implementation of the ASEAN lanes.

“Moreover, the high level of intraASEAN tourism,” which accounts for 47 percent of visitors’ origin, “provides the opportunity to harmonize ASEAN tourism quality and standards that could be a precursor to a certain ‘ASEAN brand’ that the region could roll out to the global tourism market,” Singson said.

According to Singson, developing the tourism industry is integral to the Duterte administration’s 10-point socioeconomic agenda as this sector is the third biggest contributor to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) that accounted for five million jobs in 2015, mostly in the areas of transport and hospitality services, representing 12.7 percent of the country’s total employment.

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NATIONAL NEWS 34

roads, and the expansion of capacity to in Central Philippines, the most dispersed service more domestic and international section of the archipelago. flights, she noted.

“These initiatives for Cruise Tourism

Singson said that in terms of in the Tourism Development Plan expect attracting tourism investments the that in six years time, ship calls to the Philippines is promoting flagship Tourism Philippines will increase by as much as Enterprise Zones (TEZs) “through master six-fold and visitor arrivals from Cruise planning, provision of basic infrastructure Tourism will increase by as much as 800 and grant of incentives.” percent,” Singson noted.

The country has, so far, only two TEZs The NTDP also aims to upgrade in Luzon, in Rizal Park and in Mt. Samat; land travel to reknown tourist sites and one in Central Philippines in Panglao provide facilities to ease travel, which Island, Bohol; one in Western Philippines would include the implementation of in San Vicente, Palawan; and one in an advance passenger information Southern Philippines in Bucas Grande, system, electronic visa and visa-uponSurigao. arrival processing, new air services

in international gateways and, the

Singson said the NTDP aims to hurdle simplification of port immigration and four main challenges to the continued quarantine policies, Singson said. growth of the tourism industry, namely, the 1) underdeveloped infrastructure Singson added that the NTDP and tourist facilities, 2) low awareness of also aims to improve and harmonize must-see places, 3) inconsistent tourism service standards in the industry as well standards, and 4) perceived concerns as enhance human resource capacity over tourists’ safety. by, among others, providing grants for

tourism skills development, upgrading

Besides an infrastructure buildup, the curriculum and quality of tourism the NTDP seeks to pursue more initiatives courses, and the implementation of the to address these challenges, she said.

Star Rating System.

These initiatives include developing “At the same time, we also see the country’s cruise industry, which saw a great potential for cooperation in an increase in port calls by 67 percent this area with our ASEAN partners that over the 2013-2015 period, she added. lead in terms of tourism in the region,”

Singson said. She said the ASEAN Mutual

The NTDP, Singson said, includes Recognition Agreement (MRA) on the development of the “Turquoise and tourism professionals, which has been North Triangles” covering the best cruise signed by all 10 ASEAN member states, destinations in Northern and Central would allow the Philippines and its fellow Philippines, and an international cruise members in the regional bloc to share port and marina in Manila, as well as the best practices and skills to further improve improvement of ports and ferry services their respective tourism industries. (DOF)

NATIONAL NEWS

PH economy posts 7.1 % GDP growth in 3rd quarter of 2016

MANILA - The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew year-on-year by 7.1 percent in the third quarter of 2016. This growth is driven by Manufacturing, Trade, and Real Estate, Renting and Other Business Activities. This is higher than the growth rates of 7.0 percent in the second quarter of 2016 and 6.2 percent in the third quarter of 2015.

Among the major sectors, Services posted a growth of 6.9 percent in the third quarter of 2016, lower than the 7.2 percent growth in the previous year. On the other hand, Industry accelerated to 8.6 percentcompared with 6.1 percent in 2015. Meanwhile, after five consecutive quarters of decline, Agriculture rebounded to 2.9 percent in the third quarter of 2016. In the same period last year, it declined by 0.1 percent.

Net Primary Income (NPI) slowed

down to 2.5 percent in the third quarter of 2016 compared with 6.8 percent in 2015. As a result, Gross National Income (GNI) grew by 6.3 percent.

With the country’s projected population reaching 103.5 million in the third quarter of 2016, per capita GDP and per capita GNI grew by 5.3 percent and 4.6 percent, respectively. These are both higher than the respective growth of 4.4 percent and 4.5 percent in 2015.

(PSA)

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Photo Gallery 24th National Children’s Month Regional children’s Congress 29 November 2016

Regional Tobacco Control Network Meeting Hotel Luciana, Butuan City 29 November 2016

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