Caraga InFocus – November 30-December 6, 2019

CONTENTS Caraga Infocus 7

30 November - 6 December 2019

REGIONAL NEWS

7 9 10 11 13 16 17 Media practitioners, PIOs in Caraga lit peace candles Government agencies boost campaign efforts on ending VAW

Women IPs featured in Butuan’s photo exhibit

DTI launches IPSO in Butuan

Caraga IPs convene for 2019 IP Summit Story of volunteerism: A peek in the life of a youth

LGU support assured in ongoing DSWD Listahanan 3 assessment, DILG says

CDD institutionalization pushed in KalahiCIDSS stakeholders forum

Volume III, No. 68

PROVINCIAL NEWS

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Caraganons celebrate MWOP, antique bell installed

Antique bell installed at AgNor parish 355 individuals graduate from skills dev’t program in AgNor Agusan Norte PRLEC members converge in Pulong-pulong sa barangay Mahigit 200 kabataan aktibong nakilahok sa 1st Agusan del Norte YLS Agusanons inaasahang makikinabang sa programang Agusan Up Surigao tribes light first ever Christmas tree 5 NPA rebels yield in Surigao Sur Solon bats for more teachers, classrooms for Surigao Sur Agusan Sur rice farmers get cash aid from DA

MINDANAO NEWS

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Church leader emphasizes inclusive dialogue for Mindanao peace MinDA eyes BARMM provinces to supply Halal food to Sabah

NATIONAL NEWS

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Private sector urged to help address poverty, insurgency SSS WDLG program collection reaches P30.5M PRRD signs landmark law establishing Malasakit Centers nationwide; also approves postponement of barangay and SK elections

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News Briefs Training and Workshop Seminar on Water Quality Monitoring and Sampling Procedure cum Orientation Seminar on R.A. 9275 of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau in Butuan City, the different stakeholders were grouped and tasked to share their expectations for the set of activities and topics.

The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Agusan del Norte approved and declared valid the Municipal Ordinance No. 004, from the town of Nasipit, “An Ordinance Institutionalizing the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) Day on the 25th Day of October of every year in time of the celebration of the National Indigenous People’s Month in the Municipality of Nasipit and Appropriating Funds Therefore.” Through the ordinance, authored by Sangguniang Bayan Member Revise D. Mandalinog, it strengthened the day for indigenous peoples in October.

While candles are lit, all the participating sectors during today’s culmination program of the Mindanao Week of Peace (MWOP) held at Bishop’s Home, Butuan City, pray together and sing the song “Let there be peace on earth.”

DILG Caraga regional director Lilibeth Famacion emphasizes the importance of Disiplina Muna in everyday life activities during today’s launching in Butuan City. Disiplina Muna should start with us, it is a national campaign intended to bring back and uplift the culture of discipline of every Filipino towards the change we wanted to have in our country, she said.

Cover Story

Media practitioners, P Caraga lit peace cand

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

B

UTUAN CITY - As the government takes another step in the implementation of Executive Order (EO) 70 or the wholeof-nation approach, which aims to curb the insurgency in the country, the media practitioners and information officers from various government agencies have offered peace candles.

This was in time with the briefing on EO 70 spearheaded by the Strategic Communications Cluster under the Caraga Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTFELCAC).

Prayers were also offered for the journalists and law enforcers who have risked their lives in the conflictaffected areas and fought against the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).

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president of Agusan del Sur Media Club, it is important for the media practitioners to have in-depth knowledge of EO 70 as they relay significant messages to the public, as well as understanding better their roles and responsibilities being the 4th state of the government.

“The media should know and understand well the objective of EO 70 for the Filipino people. The media plays a vital role and we must be helping people by increasing their awareness and making them well-informed so they According to Richard Grande, won’t be fed and deceived with wrong

Caraga Infocus

November 30-December 6, 2019

PIOs in dles the communities, so people become well-informed, and for them to feel the government’s concern, particularly to the youth.

“The government has the power or authority to provide the basic and social services to the people, and I know that the government only wants its people to experience living in a peaceful life away from any danger or violence,” said Supas.

information,” said Grande.

Grande added that many were killed and have sacrificed their lives fighting against the NPAs just to protect the locals. Hence, they would intensify their advocacy to reach more Filipinos and make them more aware of the atrocities and chaos brought about by the communist terrorist group.

Aisa Supas, a reporter from one of the local radio stations in Butuan City also expressed that this initiative of the government is of great help to

Regional Director Manuel Orduña of the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA), emphasized that each cluster of the RTF-ELCAC has been performing their tasks and addressing the issues and concerns of the target sectors.

Their respective action plans towards attaining sustainable peace and development are also being enacted, per directive of President Rodrigo Duterte. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

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REGIONAL NEWS

Regional News

Government agencies boost campaign efforts on ending VAW

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY - Various government agencies in Caraga region are stepping up its campaign and public awareness on ending violence against women and children (VAWC) in the communities.

This was in time with the kickoff celebration of this year’s 18-day campaign to end violence against women, wherein Caraga stakeholders convened for an advocacy walk from the Agusan del Norte Provincial Capitol grounds going to Guingona Park of Butuan City.

Parole And Probation Administration (PPA) Caraga, their personnel regularly conduct counseling to criminal offenders and encourage them to live a new life, and to ensure that they would no longer be committing any form of violence or abuse against any member of their family.

According to OIC-assistant “We strongly advocate for a regional director Elizabeth Villaver of VAW-free community, hence, we November 30-December 6, 2019

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Regional News communicate it with our clients to in the minds of the children that at their prevent any form of abuse or violence young age, they should be able to within their family,” Villaver added. realize that women and their children’s rights should always be respected and

For OIC-regional director Rotelo upheld.

Cabugsa of the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) Caraga, the “Parents should always teach campaign against violence should start their children good character and to from one’s self and should be practiced always respect humanity especially the at home. women,” bared Nastor.

“We should practice a VAW-free Meanwhile, CHR-Caraga regional in our respective homes and apply it also in our workplaces,” said Cabugsa. director Atty. Jerefe Tubigon-Bacang, chair of the Regional Gender and

As the guest speaker of said Development Committee (RGADC), occasion, Atty. Ingrid Trixia Rullon- highlighted that wearing of the bright Nastor of the Public Attorney’s Office color of orange signifies the hope of Caraga, emphasized that parents the Caraganons to attain a VAW-free should take responsibility in inculcating region. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

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November 30-December 6, 2019

Regional News

Women IPs featured in Butuan’s photo exhibit

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY - Butuanons were amused as they witnessed the photo exhibit featuring women Indigenous Peoples (IPs) from different ethnolinguistic groups in the country, which are displayed inside the Eastern-Northern Mindanao Regional Museum in this city.

These were taken by George Tapan, a world-renowned Filipino photographer, who specializes in images of people and landscapes.

“I want to highlight the women’s role in society and their contributions to nation-building. They have been doing their best and have great involvement in the field of education, arts and

The exhibit aims to highlight the culture, and economy, among others,” invaluable contributions of the women said Tapan. at home and in their respective fields as they perform vital roles in the arts,

These photos were donated by education, and social economy Tapan to the National Museum of the through photographs.

Philippines in 2018 and are now part of

According to Tapan, he took the National Fine Arts Collection. these photos during the course of 50 Ronnie Rudinas, a local artist was years as a travel photographer. He has collected several portraits from one of those who were impressed by different parts of the country – from the the photo exhibit. He said it shows the island of Batanes in Luzon to the island significant role of the women in ensuring of Basilan in Mindanao. a resilient and strong family life.

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Regional News

“Women play a vital role in our communities and as local artists here, we support this kind of portraits, where people could have a deep appreciation to all the women,” Rudinas said.

Meanwhile, Lilita Mission-Concon, supervising administrative officer of Butuan National Museum called on the public particularly the youths to visit the exhibit which will run until November 15, 2020.

“I’m inviting our students and tourists to visit our Museum and learn many things, especially the different cultures and ethnolinguistic groups portrayed by women of different walks of life in the society,” said Concon.

This also forms part of the 18-day campaign to end violence against women (VAW) celebration from November 25-December 12, 2019.

(JPG/PIA-Caraga)

DTI launches IPSO in Butuan

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY - The local artists and entrepreneurs were delighted with the launching of the Intellectual Property Satellite Office (IPSO) at the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Caraga regional office, this city.

Fritz Villahermosa, game developer from Caraga region thanked the government particularly the DTI for this initiative to address their concerns and for granting easier means for intellectual property filings.

easier also when we have concerns that need their assistance, like in IP filing.

Our works are being protected with the help of IPSO,” said Villahermosa.

According to Evangeline Linog, an entrepreneur from Tagbina, Surigao

“We’re glad to finally have this del Sur, the establishment of the said office here in Butuan because it would office in Butuan City is a great help for really help us local artists. It would be a Micro Small and Medium Enterprise

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Regional News (MSME)-entrepreneur like her so they in other countries, and be spared would not need to travel far from from imitation or reproduction of fake the region to ask for assistance from products.

IPSO.

“Having a name or trademark on

“The DTI has always been there your products really help other people for us (entrepreneurs) to guide us and get to know your product well, and ensure that we are able to market they could easily refer it to other people properly the products that we sell to once they see that your product is well different places. And having the IP packaged,” cited Santiago. satellite office here in Butuan gives us convenience in filing our IP concerns,” The official added, interested Linog bared. individuals or parties could already apply online and even pay online.

Director-general Josephine Santiago of the Intellectual Property Meanwhile, Ramil Leongas, officerOffice of the Philippines (IPOPH), in-charge of industry development stressed to all Caraga entrepreneurs division of DTI-Caraga calls on the local the importance of having a trademark artists and business sector to avail of in their products which are sold in the the services offered by the intellectual market. She said this would also make property satellite office. (JPG/PIAtheir products be well-known even Caraga)

Caraga IPs convene for 2019 IP Summit

By Clea Mariel C. Malunhao

BUTUAN CITY - Tribal groups from different parts of Caraga gathered recently for this year’s Indigenous Peoples Summit in this city to celebrate their participation and contribution in nation-building and at the same time raise concerns that their communities are facing.

The one-day summit, which was organized by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga, was held recently at Balanghai Hotel and was attended by Manobo, Mamanwa, Higaonon, Banwaon, and Mandaya tribal groups.

These tribal groups are from six ancestral domains granted with the Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title (CADT), namely: CADT 089 – Veruela and Sta. Josefa; CADT 117 – La Paz and Loreto; CADT 078 – Rosario and Tagbina; CADT 134 – Kitcharao, Jabonga, and Santiago; and CADT 048 – Kitcharao,

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Regional News

Alegria, Tubod, Claver, Bacuag, and allows the IP communities to voice out Gigaquit. their concerns and opinion. Further, RD Lim said that through the said activity,

Consequently, these ancestral the impact and contributions of the domains are also part of the Kapit-Bisig indigenous communities’ in the project Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive are highlighted. and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS) PAMANA–IP “To our IP leaders, we need your CDD implementation. opinion. We want to hear your voice so we may know of your needs in your

The summit also served as a respective communities. We believe venue for the Kalahi-CIDSS program that through this summit, the DSWD to provide updates as well as for and the other concerned agencies the IP communities to highlight will be able to address your concerns their contributions to the program especially in the implementation of the implementation of the PAMANA–IP PAMANA-IP CDD and other IP programs CDD or the Payapa at Masagang in your localities,” Gupana-Lim said.

Pamayanan – Indigenous Peoples Community-Driven Development Datu Mario Labao, a Mamanwa Project. tribal leader from Alegria, Surigao del Norte province, expressed his gratitude

DSWD Caraga Regional Director towards the DSWD for initiating the Mita Chuchi Gupana-Lim said that event because they were able to the activity was very significant as it articulate their pressing concern on

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Regional News education.

Commission for Indigenous Peoples, Office of the Presidential Adviser on

“Through this summit, we were Peace Process, and the Department of given the chance to tackle our request the Interior and Local Government. for scholarship funds for our children.

We fervently hope this will be granted This year’s summit is anchored on the soonest because many of our the theme, “IP in Action: Strengthening children desire to go to college and Culture and Tradition by Building study medicine or law”, he said. a Culture of Peace for Sustainable Development in Ancestral Domain

The IP Summit was graced Areas.” (Social Marketing Section/ by stakeholders from the National DSWD-Caraga)

Story of volunteerism: A peek in the life of a youth

By Clea Mariel C. Malunhao

When he was still young, Vicente L. Gausin, Jr., or “Vic”, used to tag along with his parents in their community meetings because he had nothing to do at home and he wanted to avail of the snacks during these meetings. Later on, when he was a little older, he began assisting them in facilitating these meetings. This sparked his interest in community volunteerism.

Vic is a 20-year old youth volunteer from Barangay Pinanaan, Las Nieves, Agusan November 30-December 6, 2019

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Regional News

del Norte. His parents, Vicente D. Gausin, Sr., and Ofelia Gausin, used to be Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan– Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KalahiCIDSS) community volunteers and members of the Barangay Sub-Project Management Committee Community Volunteers of Pinana-an.

effort. He said that it really motivated him when he saw how each member of the community would walk an extra mile just to accomplish their goals.

“I have seen that the people in my community were united and worked hand-in-hand just to achieve the development we aspire for. This inspires me even more to take part and

While assisting his parents in their contribute even in my own little ways,� volunteer works in Kalahi-CIDSS, Vic Vic said. realized that he also wanted to do what his parents were doing. He wanted to During the community help the community. He also fathomed planning, Vic developed a deeper that even at a young age, he can understanding of the problems in his contribute to the improvement of his community and how critical it is to work community. as a team in resolving these issues.

Before, he did not pay much attention

With this realization, he became to these problems as he thought that more active and involved in the it was not his concern at all. But after community. becoming a community volunteer, he saw that the youth plays a huge role

As a community volunteer, Vic in the improvement of the community learned and experienced a lot. It as they can offer fresh perspectives was with Kalahi-CIDSS, where he first and offer new ways on how to address learned the significance of community problems.

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Regional News

He said that the youth should Congress in Butuan City last August be more involved in the planning, 2019. budgeting, and implementation of community projects.

During this event, Vic was able to exchange ideas with other

But his journey as community community volunteers from across the volunteer was not smooth sailing at country and pitched in suggestions all times. Vic also struggled. on how to promote the passage of the Community-Driven Development

“While volunteering, I also had to (CDD) Institutionalization Bill. go to school. Sometimes, I struggled juggling between volunteer works “I believe that the youth sector and my studies. I had to make sure plays an important role in nationthat I do my responsibilities in both building. We may only offer tiny efforts aspects,” Vic shared. but I know these small contributions can lead to a significant result,” Vic

He also received shared. discouragement from others, saying that volunteering was a waste of Since his volunteering time. He was not compensated for experience with Kalahi-CIDSS, Vic has his services and it would not bring been involved in other volunteering him opportunities. works in school. It has become both his learning venue and comfort zone.

But he did not let this get in his way.

He said that he still sees himself in the He brushed off the negative remarks future doing volunteer works because of other people and continued to he had always the heart to serve. serve as a community volunteer. He says that his experiences as a KalahiCurrently, Vic is in his second year CIDSS community volunteer have helped him boost his self-esteem and in college at Caraga State University, taking Social Work as he wishes to honed his leadership skills. continue working with the community

Through volunteerism, Vic was and serving the people especially given the opportunity to experience those who are in poor, vulnerable, real challenges and make meaningful and disadvantaged areas. contribution to the society. He was “My volunteering experience in also able to widen his social capital – meeting new people, sharing Kalahi-CIDSS has helped me develop experiences with them, and learning a sense of citizenship. Being a from them. As a matter of fact, he community volunteer was one of the represented the Caraga Region in best decisions I have ever made in my the recently concluded Kalahi-CIDSS life,” Vic concluded. (Social Marketing National Community Volunteers’ Section/DSWD-Caraga/PIA-Caraga) November 30-December 6, 2019

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LGU support assured in ongoing DSWD Listahanan 3 assessment, DILG says BUTUAN CITY - With the on-going Listahanan 3 implementation of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG)-Caraga ensures the participation of all Local Government Units (LGUs) in the 3rd round household assessment activities.

This assurance was delivered by DILG Local Government Operations Officer Ednon John Aparicio during the Listahanan 3 Stakeholders Media Forum which was attended by the National Household Targeting Office and DSWD Field Office Caraga personnel together with the media practitioners of the region held recently at Almont City Hotel, this city.

“With the existing Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between DSWD and DILG in relation to Listahanan 3, we ensure that the conduct of Listahanan 3 will be completed together with the participation and cooperation of the local officials,’’ said Aparicio.

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“If you have difficulties or concerns regarding the implementation of Listahanan 3, you can also report it to the Municipal/Local Government Operations Office for us to take actions,’’ Aparicio added.

Based on the MOU, the DILG shall enjoin City/Municipal/Barangay Officials to assist the DSWD in the implementation of Listahanan nationwide household assessment in all phases from the preparatory, data collection, validation, and finalization until report generation phase. (DSWDCaraga/PIA-Caraga)

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Regional News

CDD institutionalization pushed in Kalahi-CIDSS stakeholders forum

By Clea Mariel C. Malunhao

BUTUAN CITY - The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-Caraga have intensified its campaign for the institutionalization of the Community-Driven Development (CDD) by gathering stakeholders from different parts of the region and explaining to them the impact of CDD to poor, vulnerable, and disadvantaged sectors and communities, on November 15, 2019, at Watergate Hotel, this city.

The Stakeholders’ Forum was conducted through the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan–Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS) Program, the agency’s lead in the advocacy of the CDD institutionalization bid.

The forum was attended by municipal and provincial information officers, and planning and development coordinators and line government agencies’ representatives.

The forum intends to define CDD particularly in the context of Kalahi-

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Regional News CIDSS, to strengthen the advocacy campaign of CDD, to promote the use of this approach in the implementation of other government programs and projects, and to strengthen the ties with the stakeholders in order to gain their support and commitment in the passage of the CDD Institutionalization Bill.

their needs.

During the forum, regional specialists from the program discussed the gains and successes of KalahiCIDSS in the context of CDD. They also disclosed the future steps of the program towards CDD institutionalization.

Kalahi-CIDSS also shared the different technologies used by the monitoring and evaluation unit in the implementation of the program.

The management seeks to transfer these technologies to help the local government units and government offices in providing a more efficient and effective delivery of services.

Jean Paul S. Parajes, DSWD Caraga Promotive Services Division OIC chief, said that as the Kalahi-CIDSS program comes to a close this year, the Department is on the move to call for the passage of the CDD Institutionalization Bill, adding that since 2003, CDD has already demonstrated success in poverty alleviation, community empowerment, and participatory local Participants expressed their governance. support and commitment to the program, saying that they believe in

“With the success of the program, what CDD can do to help their people. the agency sees the opportunity to ride on the momentum gained through Trento Municipal Information the implementation of the program, Officer Allen Joe Lumanta shared through the institutionalization of that Trento town is now on the move CDD by making it a regular strategy to create a CDD ordinance, after for programs and services of the the Kalahi-CIDSS program improved government. This way, with the passing the lives of the communities in the of the bill, CDD will be operationalized municipality. in government programs, activities, and projects,” Parajes said.

“The municipality of Trento has always been supportive of the

For 16 years, the Kalahi-CIDSS Kalahi-CIDSS program. We assure the program has been using the CDD management that our municipality approach in empowering communities will promote the institutionalization of in targeted poor and disadvantaged CDD because we believe that this is an municipalities by giving the people the effective strategy in poverty alleviation opportunity to make informed decisions and fosters inclusivity. This is what our on locally-identified options for people need,” Lumanta said. (Social development and manage resources Marketing Section/DSWD-Caraga/PIAto implement sub-projects that address Caraga)

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

Provincial News

Caraganons celebrate MWOP, antique bell installed

By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales

BAYUGAN CITY, Agusan del Sur - This year’s Mindanao Week of Peace (MWOP) celebration joined by members of various local communities in Caraga region such as the indigenous Peoples (IPs), Muslims, and Christians was highlighted with the historic blessing and installation of one of the Balangiga bell replicas on November 28, 2019 at St. James the Great Parish in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.

The bell is one of the two church bells that were made in 1863 in the United States which was purchased by Dr. Henry Boland Howard, director of the United States-Philippines Society.

A loud chant of “Mindanao, Kalinaw (Peace)!” was heard from the people who witnessed the ringing and hoisting of the church bell that marked another milestone in the history not only of the municipality

Most Reverend Cosme Damian of Buenavista, but also of the whole Almedilla, Bishop of Butuan City, led peace process being campaigned the blessing of the antique bell that nationwide by the government and symbolizes unity and peace. various stakeholders.

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Provincial News

Meanwhile, Parish Pastoral Council (PPC) Coordinator Mauricio Abrao greeted everyone with warm welcome during the opening program held right after the Eaucharistic mass.

He also acknowledged the support of Caraganons towards inclusive peace and development, not only in the province but in the entire region.

principles, and even clashing personal viewpoints, “we stand in great hope to fortify the alliance of civilizations so that we can advance the most clamored status of peace in Mindanao.”

Atty. Ramie Duropan added that there is no alternative for peace. ”With the help of all stakeholders, we can

Meanwhile, Mayor Norbert establish a true haven in this Promise Pagaspas of Buenavista, Agusan Land- Mindanao.” del Norte expressed his gratitude to Representing Brigade Howard for choosing Saint James Parish as one of the beneficiaries of the Commander BGen. Maurito Licudine bell. He emphasized that it would help of the 402nd Brigade is Major Fransisco promote peace in the communities for Garello, Jr., who was quick to remind everyone that attaining peace requires a well-lived life. a collective effort and is therefore the

“Everyone deserves peace. We responsibility of everyone. are happy to see people being united A press conference facilitated and working peacefully regardless of by the Philippine Information Agency cultural differences,” said Howard.

(PIA) was held shortly after, where

In his message delivered by Atty. coordinators of MWOP discussed their Ramie Duropan, Agusan del Norte agenda for this year’s celebration with governor Dale Corvera said that despite present media partners. (DMNR/VLG/ the different cultures, customs, beliefs, PIA-Caraga)

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Antique bell installed at AgNor parish

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY - Inside the Saint James the Great Parish in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte, parishioners and guests from different sectors convened and showed unity as they prayed towards achieving lasting peace and development in Caraga region.

This was in time with the blessing and installation of the antique bell of said church, wherein the Muslim community, Christians, Indigenous Peoples (IPs) and local residents altogether participated in the symbolic ringing of the bell led by Butuan Bishop Most Reverend Cosme Damian Almedilla.

bell was donated by Dr. Henry Boland Howard of the United States – Philippine Society organization.

According to Rev. Fr. Stephen Broncano, parish priest of Saint James the Great, this also gives inspiration to the local residents in the area, and an instrument of instilling in them the value

This was also an opportune time of unity and strong faith. for the opening celebration of this year’s Mindanao Week of Peace.

“The locals have been looking for the stolen bell, and God-given, our

Parishioners were delighted as parish was given a new one. Through they heard the bell ringing, recalling this, people could easily gather in the the years when they have last heard the sound of the church’ bell after it church to celebrate and pray,” cited was stolen. This newly-installed antique Fr. Broncano.

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Provincial News

Yanie Perez, a grade-7 student was also blissful seeing that their church now has a new bell, which will resonate a sound of peace and friendship and will signal a start of a sacred liturgical mass.

approach to end local insurgency to the peace and order of the communities.

“With the implementation of Executive Order 70, people from different sectors are united in promoting a whole-of-nation approach in

“I’m happy because we already addressing the insurgency in the have a new bell in our church. I have country, leading towards sustainable faith that more people would go to peace,” Fr. Clase said. church and attend mass,” said Perez.

Bishop Almedilla hopes that the

Meanwhile, Rev. Fr. Carlito locals would continue to actively Clase, executive director of the participate in the government’s efforts Caraga Conference for Peace and and initiatives towards achieving Development (CCPD), stressed the inclusive and sustainable peace and significant contribution of Executive development in the region. (JPG/PIAOrder 70 or the whole-of-nation Caraga)

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Provincial News

355 individuals graduate from skills dev’t program in AgNor By 1Lt. Nonette B. Banggad

CABADBARAN CITY, Agusan del Norte - A total of 355 individuals successfully graduated from the skills development program of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) conducted in partnership with the 29th Infantry “Matatag” Battalion and local government unit (LGU) of Remedios Trinidad Romualdez (RTR) on November 22, 2019.

Of the 355 graduates, 130 were students of the Mobile Computer Literacy Training, 25 were students of the Electrical Installation NCII, 50 were students of the Wellness Hilot massage NCII, 25 were students of Cookery NCII, 50 were students of Driving NCII, 25 were students of Rice Machinery Operation NCII, and 50 were students of Shielded Metal Arc Welding NCI.

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Mayor Richard P. Daquipil of the Municipality of RTR thanked the 29IB troopers for bringing the Army’s Mobile Computer Literacy program to the Agusanons. He emphasized the importance of computer literacy - that this would open the doors to better opportunities for the Indigenous people and out of school youth in particular. He also thanked the TESDA

November 30-December 6, 2019

Provincial News for their tireless support in providing what happened to alias Kent, a young livelihood skills development training to NPA combatant who was saved by the the Agusanons.

29IB troopers last November 4, 2019.”

In his message, Gov. Dale B. Corvera of Agusan del Norte lauded the organizers and other stakeholders who have supported the said training. “Your efforts to support this kind of endeavor proved that you value the future of the Agusanons. To the graduates, this effort of the government will enable you to acquire better job opportunities for your future,” he said.

Meanwhile, Agusan del Norte Rep. Maria Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba said that the main objective of the government is to uplift the lives of every Agusanon through the skills acquired from the training, “and for them not to be deceptively recruited by the NPA terrorists just like

In his statement, Lt. Col. Isagani O. Criste, Commanding Officer of 29IB applauded the graduates for investing time and effort in the skills training. “The skill and lessons that they’ve gained in this training will open their minds to the possibilities and opportunities that are there waiting for them,” he said.

“However, their success will depend not just on having the skill but their determination and perseverance to continue on the path of success despite challenges that may come their way as they seek for better opportunities in their life,” Criste added.

(CMO Officer, 29IB, PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)

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Provincial News

Agusan Norte PRLEC members converge in Pulong-pulong sa barangay

By Robert E. Roperos

CABADBARAN CITY, Agusan del Norte - Member-agencies of the Poverty Reduction Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) of the province of Agusan del Norte have converged on Wednesday in the covered court of Brgy. San Antonio, Municipality of Remedios T. Romualdez, Agusan del Norte.

According to Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)-Agusan del Norte Acting Provincial Director Liza B. Budtan, the activity was conducted to assess the needs of the residents in as far as poverty reduction, livelihood and employment are concerned.

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“TESDA, being the lead agency of the PRLEC will see to it that the cluster members can hear the issues and concerns of the local residents so that through the mandates of their respective agencies can be able to address it,� Budtan said.

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Provincial News

Dir. Budtan also emphasized that the pulong-pulong sa barangay is a venue that brings the government closer to the public especially in places where local communist armed conflict in infiltrating.

Meanwhile, RTR Mayor Richard P. Daquipil expressed his gratitude to PRLEC members for choosing the town as a pilot place for the implementation of the program. He said with all the government agencies’ convergence, this shows how serious is the Duterte administration in its effort to alleviate poverty in the country, thus ending the local communist armed conflict.

For his part, San Antonio Brgy.

Capt. Helario S. Sajolan enjoined his constituents to take care of the projects that have been given to them by the government and use it to improve their lives through these livelihood opportunities.

Among the PRLEC member-agencies who were in attendance and presented their programs and services are: TESDA, Agusan del Norte Provincial Agriculturist Office, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Cooperative Development Authority (CDA), National Irrigation Administration (NIA), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Provincial Social Welfare and Development (PSWD), Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Education (DepEd), Philippine National Police (PNP), and the 29th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army (PA).

More than 300 residents of the barangay attended the activity composed of members of the cooperative, farmers’ associations, youth organizations, and women’s organizations.

Signed by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on December 4, 2018, Executive Order No. 70 institutionalizes the whole-of-nation approach in attaining inclusive and sustainable peace, creating a national task force to end local communist armed conflict, and directing the adoption of a national peace framework. (TESDAAgusan del Norte)

November 30-December 6, 2019

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Provincial News

Mahigit 200 kabataan aktibong nakilahok sa 1st Agusan del Norte YLS

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN - Sa harap ng pagpapatupad ng Executive Order 70 ni Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte sa bansa, puspusan ang pagtugon ng ibat-ibang ahensiya sa mga pangangailangan ng mamamayan sa mga komunidad partikular na sa mga kabataan sa Caraga region.

Ang mas pinaigting na pagsagawa ng Youth Leadership Summit ang isa sa mga tinututukan ngayon ng Philippine Army upang mas mahasa ang kanilang galing bilang youth leaders at makatulong din sa

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kani-kanilang bayan.

Isa si Jerwen Escalania sa mga aktibong nagbahagi ng kaniyang natutunan sa loob ng tatlong araw na 1st Youth Leadership Summit sa

November 30-December 6, 2019

Provincial News nasabing probinsya.

Lubos ang kanyang pasasalamat sa mga ahensiya ng gobyerno, kasama ng 23rd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army dahil sa patuloy nitong pagbigay-tugon sa kanilang pangangailangan.

“Marami po talaga akong natutunan sa summit na ito. Umaasa rin ako na kung ano man yung natutunan namin,

Nangako naman si Ma. Leaneth maisagawa rin namin sa aming mga Penarejo, isa sa mga partisipante na komunidad,” sabi ni Escalania. magiging aktibo sa pagbahagi ng tama at magagandang balita sa

“Sa summit na ito, mariing pamamagitan ng social media. ipinaalala sa amin ang pagkakaroon ng magandang asal at may

Bilang panauhing pandangal, respeto sa magulang. Tinuruan din hinimok ni 2Lt. Gianmatteo Vittorio kami kung papaano mas maging Guidicelli, reservist ng Armed Forces of kapakipakinabang sa aming mga the Philippines (AFP) ang mga kabataan komunidad,” pahayag naman ni Roniel na maging responsable at tumulong Yongco. sa mga hakbang ng gobyerno tungo sa pagkamit ng pangmatagalang

Ayon kay Roberto Laurente, kapayapaan at kaunlaran sa bansa. president ng Propelling Our Inherited Nation Through Our Youth (POINTY),

“Makiisa po tayo sa gobyerno layon din nilang makatulong ang mga at sa ating AFP sa pagpapanatili kabataan sa kampanya laban fake nang maayos at mapayapang news. marami na aniya ang nabibiktima pamumuhay,” sabi ni Guidicelli. ng maling impormasyon na kumakalat sa social media.

Samantala, binigyang-diin naman ni LTC Francisco Molina Jr., ang

“Mahalaga sa mga kabataan na malaking papel ng mga magulang maging alerto lalu na sa mga nakikita sa bawat tahanan na magabayang at nababasa nila sa social media dahil mabuti ang kanilang mga anak upang karamihan nito ay fake news. Ayaw malayo ito sa bisyo at pangrerecruit ng nating silang malinlang at magamit New People’s Army (NPA). (JPG/PIAng mga makakaliwang grupo,” sabi ni Caraga) Laurente.

November 30-December 6, 2019

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Provincial News

Agusanons inaasahang makikinabang sa programang Agusan Up

By Nora L. Molde

LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN - Lubos ang pasasalamat ng mga taga-Agusan sa inilunsad na 8-point development agenda ng probinsya – ang Agusan Up na layong magbigay ng mga ayudang makakatulong sa pagpapaunlad ng kanilang pamumuhay.

Ayon kau Jorge Vincent Pagaran, residente ng Agusan del Norte, ang mga kabataan ngayon ang direktang makakatamasa sa benepisyong hatid ng programang Agusan Up.

del Norte pagdating sa sektor ng agrikultura.

Dahil dito, malaki din ang pasalamat ni Rodolfo Nalla, ang provincial rice focal person at isa ding magsasaka dahil sa progmanang ito

Kabilang sa flagship programs ay nanininwala siyang mas maiangat ng Agusan Up ay ang Agus 3Ps o pa ang kalagayan nilang mga ang plant and process for prosperity magsasaka. program na layong iangat ang ekonomiya, pagprotekta sa kalikasan Nangako din ang mga lokal na at pagbibigay ng maayos na serbisyo opisyales ng probinsya na magtutulongng gobyerno sa probinsya. tulong para maisakatuparan ang mga nakalatag na proyekto na walang

Layon din ng Agusan Up na halong pulitika. (NCLM/PIA Agusan del makilala ang probinsya ng Agusan Norte)

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November 30-December 6, 2019

Provincial News

Surigao tribes light first ever Christmas tree

By Lt. Krisjuper Andreo Punsalan

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur - With the free, prior and informed consent (FPIC) from the legitimate Indigenous Peoples (IP) leaders, the first-ever Christmas tree was lighted by the Conflict-Affected IP Community in Sitio Simuwao (Kilometer 9), Diatagon, Lianga, Surigao del Sur in their tribal hall recently.

With the influence of the Christian religious sector, particularly the Dominican sisters, Aglipayan and Catholic Churches and various religious missionaries, many of the IP communities were converted and have accepted the tradition of Christmas.

The Community Support Team composed of the 9th Special Forces “Hounds” Company of the 3rd Special Forces “Arrowhead” Battalion, 41st CMO Company and the Philippine National Police Community Relations with the Barangay Local Government of

November 30-December 6, 2019

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31

Provincial News Diatagon, the Sangguniang Kabataan and the Diatagon Indigenous Peoples’ Mandatory Representative (IPMR) worked together with the IP Community to make a Christmas Tree out of recycled materials and lighted it up with colorful Christmas lights. This Christmas tree symbolizes Peace, Hope, Love and Reconciliation which are the virtues obtained from the story of the birth of Jesus Christ.

The IP Community is hopeful that through the Community Support Program and the Whole-of-Nation Approach to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, the Communist NPA Terrorists’ and their front organizations

would choose the path to peace and stop their exploitation on the IP Community in Andap Valley Complex.

Felix Tayon, Vice Chairman and a member of the Malahutayong Pakigbisog Alang sa mga Sumusunod (MAPASU), said that gradually, he can now see the positive developmental changes in their community.

“Hindi lang talaga mabigla sa una dahil dati takot talaga kami sa mga sundalo, pero ngayon, unti-unti na kaming nasasanay na kasama sila at nakikita naming ang kaibahan ngayon,” Tayon said. (3SFBn-CMO/PIASurigao del Sur)

5 NPA rebels yield in Surigao Sur

By Alexander Lopez

BUTUAN CITY – After more than three years of hiding in the hinterlands, five members of the New People’s Army (NPA) operating in the province of Surigao del Sur surrendered to authorities on Tuesday.

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November 30-December 6, 2019

Provincial News

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Army’s 75th Infantry Battalion lauded the decision of the NPA surrenderers to avail of the government’s program for former rebels.

Lt. Col. Warren C. Munda, 75IB commander, welcomed alias “Tisoy”, “Panchito”, “Kwago”, “Richard”, and “Atong” to the fold of the law as they also turned over assorted high-power firearms and ammunition at the 75IB headquarters in Barangay Maharlika, Bislig City.

Munda said the five were members of the NPA’s weakened Guerrilla Front 14 under the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NMRC) of the

communist rebel movement.

The Army said Tisoy regretted the “lost opportunities” they had for the last three years with the NPA, who deceived them into believing that their lives would be better in the organization.

“We gained nothing but hardships and sacrifices. What a loss for us in the last three years,” Tisoy said.

Munda also assured the former rebels of their safety as the government will provide them with the necessary assistance to help them avail of the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program. (PNA)

Solon bats for more teachers, classrooms for Surigao Sur

By Alexander Lopez

BUTUAN CITY – The province of Surigao del Sur needs more classrooms and teachers to meet the growing educational need as the population in the province is fast increasing.

November 30-December 6, 2019

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33

Provincial News

This was emphasized by Surigao del Sur 1st District Representative Prospero A. Pichay, Jr., in an interview with Philippine News Agency on Sunday (December 1).

He is also proposing for representations with the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) on the matter.

“My priorities for next year will “We need to enlighten the be on education and health,” Pichay people at the DBM. The secretary said. of DepEd should make stronger representation with DBM that we

Pichay added that the new have an increasing population and budgeting scheme of the government, we need more teachers and school which is on a cash basis, added buildings, at the same time without difficulties in getting more classrooms sacrificing the quality of education,” to build and new teachers to hire.

Pichay said.

“Before we used to get around He added he will file a resolution 20 to 30 classrooms. Now we only got early next year to invite the DBM and five classrooms,” Pichay said.

DepEd to discuss properly concerns on education particularly on the hiring

He emphasized that the of new teachers and the building population in Surigao del Sur is fast of additional classrooms that are increasing, considering that the needed in provinces. province is among the fastest-growing community in the country.

On health, Pichay said President Rodrigo Duterte already signed

“In 2017, we have 200 new items into law the increase of the hospital for teachers in elementary and high bed capacity of the Adela Serra Ty school. This year we only got around Memorial Medical Center from 200 to 20 items for teachers,” Pichay said.

500 beds.

Next year, he said Surigao del Sur He said that with the signing will be allotted with a small number of of the law, the hospital will have an new items for teachers. increase in allocation next year in the amount of P50 million.

“I cannot understand the logic.

We have an increasing population Pichay said the next step would but instead of hiring more we are not be the increase in the number of hiring enough teachers. Instead of doctors and personnel in the said building school buildings, we are not hospital to provide more health building a lot of school buildings,” services to the people of Surigao del Pichay added.

Sur. (PNA)

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November 30-December 6, 2019

Provincial News

Agusan Sur rice farmers get cash aid from DA

By Alexander Lopez

BUTUAN CITY – A total of 360 rice farmers from the town of Prosperidad in Agusan del Sur province received cash assistance in the form of a loan from the Department of Agriculture (DA) 13 (Caraga) and the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP).

The aid was released through the Expanded Survival and Recovery Assistance for Rice Farmers (SURE Aid) Program under the Agricultural Credit Policy Council (ACPC) of the DA.

PHP15,000, payable within eight years with zero interest.

In his message, Monteagudo told the farmers to fully use the cash aid to develop their farms for increased production.

Carlito Butlay, a rice farmer from Barangay Aurora, Prosperidad, was quoted as saying that the cash assistance was a big help for them to further develop their farmlands.

In a phone interview on Tuesday, DA-13 Rice Program focal person Marisa Garces told the Philippine News

DA-13 Executive Director Abel Agency (PNA) that recipients of the James I. Monteagudo led the distribution cash assistance are those farming one of cash cards to farmer-beneficiaries in hectare and below in the area.

Prosperidad on Tuesday.

Garces said 332 rice farmers from

A total cash assistance of PHP5.4 San Francisco, Agusan del Sur received million was released to the farmers the same cash assistance with a total during the distribution activity, the DA- amount of PHP4.9 million from DA13 Information Office said.

ACPC last October.

He said the SURE Aid Program under the ACPC aims to assist rice farmers whose incomes have been affected by the drop in the farm gate price of palay in markets.

Butlay added that the support of DA-ACPC would benefit the farmers because of its zero interest, as compared to the 10-percent interest rate per cropping being offered by

The card received by each private lenders and financiers in the farmer-beneficiary was loaded with area. (PNA) November 30-December 6, 2019

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MINDANAO NEWS

Mindanao News

Church leader emphasizes inclusive dialogue for Mindanao peace

By Jigger Jerusalem

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - Going to the communities affected by the armed conflict and understanding the root causes of inequality is one of the ways to achieve lasting peace in Mindanao, a Catholic Church leader here said.

Cagayan de Oro Archbishop Antonio Ledesma said reaching out to the people in the grassroots and getting them involved in the peace dialogue while providing them basic services could be the key in putting an end to the insurgency in the countryside.

“If we can continue with local peace conversations, where we can bring together representatives of remote communities and representatives of government agencies then there can be an acceleration of development projects in the right place,” Ledesma said during a forum on sustainable peace and inclusive development held here on Monday.

The forum was attended by more than a hundred participants

from people’s organizations, nongovernmental organizations, church leaders, and the government sector in the region.

Conducted in partnership with the Office of the Presidential Adviser for Peace Reconciliation and Unity (Opapru) and Balay Mindanaw Foundation, Inc. the gathering was organized to provide a venue where stakeholders can discuss and identify areas of convergence and complementation between the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTFELCAC) technical working group and participating groups in the implementation of the government’s Convergence Areas for Peace and Development (CapDev) program.

November 30-December 6, 2019

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Mindanao News

Ledesma said both the government and the civil society groups have different services to offer and if these can be harmonized through convergence and dialogue, then they can “build a society that is peaceful and developing for all.” “We hope that with this gathering, the church and other church leaders can continue our roles as facilitators and mediators of development,” the prelate said.

social healing are needed in attaining just and lasting peace.

“While we talk about social conditions and how to end the root causes of the insurgency, one of the most difficult parts of ending any conflict is how to close it. How do we bring the discussion of peace reconciliation and unity? How do we repair the emotions and relationships? The armed conflict may end but many will remain

He added: “It is important for unhealed,” he said. government agencies to have this linkage so that we can bring to their Maj. Gen. Franco Nemesio attention what are the needs of the Gacal, commander of the Phil. Army’s communities that see themselves as 4th Infantry Division and RTF-ELCAC being deprived and being left out in TWG chairperson, said the capability, the development process.” For his part, competence, and commitment of Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Oscar groups involved in humanitarian aid, Moreno has emphasized the importance grassroots initiatives, local spaces for of solidarity in attaining lasting peace in peace-building dialogues, and conflict Mindanao. resolutions and reconciliation programs are vital in the pursuit of peace and

“Mindanao has lived divided sustainable development in the region. and polarized for far too long already.

It’s about time that we leave bias and He said the civil society will prejudice behind, we leave the conflict be the last component that would and division of Mindanao behind and interlink the three major sectors, aside learn to live in peace and harmony in from the government and the private spite of our diversity,” Moreno said. sector, working on the forefront and implementing efforts to end the local

“As we pursue this agenda, we communist armed conflict. can attain peace and order that will lead us to growth and development.

“To effectively address the Hopefully, we can sustain it and see challenges brought upon by the root Mindanao becoming the land of causes of the insurgency, it is evident fulfillment, a land of sustainable growth that the approach to peace and and development,” he said. nation-building should go beyond what the military is doing. We cannot

Ariel Hernandez, co-chairman move forward without everyone’s help of the Opapru Joint Normalization and support,” the military official said.

Committee, said reconciliation and (PNA)

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November 30-December 6, 2019

Mindanao News

MinDA eyes BARMM provinces to supply Halal food to Sabah

By Che Palicte

DAVAO CITY - The Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) is eyeing three provinces within the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) for a trade mission particularly on Halal products to Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia in January 2020.

The supplies--covering Halal goat, beef, Manok Kampung, eggs, young coconuts, and fruits, could be sourced from the three island provinces – Tawitawi, Sulu and Basilan which is nearest to Sabah--an area that the Philippines maintains a dormant claim.

supplies from the islands to strengthen the barter trade between Sabah and Mindanao,” he added.

He added that during his meeting with Sabah State Chief Minister Mohd Shafie Apdal on November 22, the official noted that the growing tourism industry of the North Borneo state has put pressure on food supplies, especially Halal food.

MinDa will start the training next year in Sulu, Tawi-tawi, and Basilan on goat raising, cattle fattening, freerange chicken raising to produce what the Malaysians call “Ayam Kampung” or “Manok Kampung,” egg production and coffee production for farmers of the three island provinces.

Piñol also said Deputy Chief Minister Wilfred Madius Tangau, who heads the Ministry of Trade and Industry, supported the idea of engaging the three island

In a Facebook post on Friday, provinces in reviving the barter trade.

Secretary Emmanuel Piñol said the move aims to penetrate the growing Halal The barter trade has traditionally market of three million locals and four been a one-way affair with goods million tourists yearly in Sabah. coming in from Sabah and shipped not only to the islands but Zamboanga City

“Sabah also needs supplies of as well, he added. “Initially, the supplies premium quality and organic rice for the for the Sabah market will be coming growing number of tourists who troop to from the other Bangasamoro Provinces the State every year,” he said. and the rest of Mindanao,” Pinol said.

“During the meeting which is also attended by Asian Development Bank (ADB) executive director Paul Dominguez, Chief Minister Apdal said that the State intends to source the

The MinDA agriculture and trade mission will also explore the market of the State of Sarawak and its capital, Kuching. (PNA)

November 30-December 6, 2019

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NATIONAL NEWS

National News SEC. MARTIN ANDANAR PCOO

NEWS CORNER

Private sector urged to help address poverty, insurgency

Regional Development and Security (CORDS) for Region 10 (Northern Mindanao), said during a press briefing at the DXIM Radyo Pilipinas station on Friday.

Before his media engagement, Andanar paid a courtesy call on Cagayan de Oro City Archbishop Antonio Ledesma, where they discussed possible programs to address increasing malnutrition among children and mothers, especially in conflictaffected areas.

He said the successful feeding program implemented by the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro is one of the programs that the government can also undertake.

“If you have a program that’s successful, that’s worth replicating, DE ORO CITY - then it’s better to do that than look for Communications other programs that do not have proofs Office (PCOO) of success yet,” Andanar said.

CAGAYAN Presidential Operations Secretary Martin Andanar urged the private sector to participate in the inclusive approach of addressing poverty and insurgency in Northern Mindanao.

The two parties will discuss the partnership through preliminary meetings that will be spearheaded by the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) 10 during its upcoming

“Solving the problem of insurgency conferences. under Executive Order No. 70 or the National Task Force to End Local Radio Rehab in CDO Communist Armed Conflict requires a whole-of-nation approach, which Andanar was in the city to turn means it’s not just on the military. It is over new radio broadcast equipment also not just an initiative of the civilian for DXIM Radyo Pilipinas as part of government. Private companies are the Radio Rehab project of PCOO, also included in this,” Andanar, who in partnership with the Philippine is the designated Cabinet Officer for Broadcasting Service (PBS).

November 30-December 6, 2019

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National News

Cagayan de Oro City is the third that need assistance,” he said. recipient of the project.

This, he noted, is an affirmation

Launched in Butuan City, it aims of the government’s commitment to upgrade and refurbish all 27 state- to providing a future for radio as an owned radio stations in the country. avenue to promote broadcasting and press freedom.

Andanar bared the agency’s plan to extend the project to privately- “As long as there are passionate owned radio stations that need people who would want to further radio assistance while still giving priority to broadcasting and press freedom, there state-run stations. will also be passionate benefactors who are willing to help,” he said, committing

“It will not stop with the 26 or 27 PBS that he would talk with allied countries radio stations. What we are planning is that can help with the project. (PCOO that we will extend this to all stations PR)

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November 30-December 6, 2019

National News

SSS WDLG program collection reaches P30.5M QUEZON CITY - The state-run Social Security System (SSS) has collected more than P30.5 million contribution delinquencies from 71 employers who were served with assessment notices by its branches under one of its aggressive collection efforts.

SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Aurora C. Ignacio said the employers settled their delinquencies after being served with Preliminary Assessment Notices (PANs) and Final Assessment Notices Before Seizure (FANS’) under the process of serving Warrants of Distraint, Levy, and Garnishment (WDLG).

“This is only an initial amount as we have identified 93 other employers with combined contribution delinquencies amounting to nearly P200 million,” Ignacio said.

Serving assessment notices are the initial procedures of the SSS’ WDLG Program. These are given to delinquent or non-compliant employers to give them the option to either settle their

delinquencies, avail an installment payment scheme or file a request for reconsideration or reconciliation. Failure to avail of any of the said methods will lead to the issuance of WDLG.

As of September 2019, two delinquent/non-compliant employers with a total delinquency of over P2.91 million are set for warrant execution.

The pension fund is coordinating with the Land Registration Authority, Land Transportation Office, and various banks to ensure the compliance of the said employers.

“The employers under the especially

SSS has allowed these to fulfill their obligations Social Security Act of 2018, by offering a Contribution

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National News Penalty Condonation Program (CPCP) The SSS has initially collected over from March until September this year, P3.06 million from them, excluding but they still failed to comply,” Ignacio installment payments from the CPCP. said.

“We would like to remind non “We recognize that employers are compliant employers to obey the law our partners in providing social security and remit religiously the SSS contributions protection to private-sector workers. of their employees. This is your obligation However, if they still neglect their duties not only under the law but also show under the law, we need to enforce your empathy to your employees who their strict compliance and therefore have been your partners in business. conduct this aggressive collection Give them the social safety net they effort,” Ignacio added. deserve,” Ignacio said.

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Since April 2018, 13 delinquent/ non-compliant employers including the two mentioned above have been referred to the SSS’ Employer Delinquency Monitoring Department for WDLG.

Aside from warrant or seizure of properties, the SSS conducts its Run After Contribution Evaders (RACE) campaign and Tokhang against delinquent employers with issued warrants of arrest from courts.

Of the other 11 employers, one paid through the garnishment of bank account, one has levied properties for public auction, one has encumbered properties, while eight have availed of the CPCP.

As of October 2019, the SSS, in partnership with the Philippine National Police, has so far conducted 14 execution of warrants of arrest and 29 RACE operations nationwide. (SSS)

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November 30-December 6, 2019

National News

PRRD signs landmark law establishing Malasakit Centers nationwide; also approves postponement of barangay and SK elections President Rodrigo Roa Duterte signed into law two bills that institutionalize the Malasakit Centers and postpone the May 2020 barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections to December 2022.

A ceremonial signing was held in Malacañang on Tuesday, December 3.

In his speech, the President said he is “elated and grateful” with the two laws, which he called “vital in realizing

meaningful and lasting reform for the of legislation, Republic Act No. 11463, good of our nation.” otherwise known as the Malasakit Center Act of 2019, mandates the

The two laws, which are the first to be establishment of Malasakit Centers in 73 passed in the 18th Congress, were both hospitals that are run by the Department major items in the legislative agenda of of Health (DOH) all over the country Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” and in the Philippine General Hospital Go during the campaign period. The in Manila. bills that the Senator filed in July, right after assuming office, served as bases “The Malasakit Center is one of for the two laws. the solutions the Duterte government

Considered as a landmark piece has developed to provide quick and November 30-December 6, 2019

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National News quality access to healthcare to all Filipinos, regardless of their age, sex, ethnic background, religion and political affiliation,” Go said in his past statements.

The Malasakit Center, intended to be a one-stop shop, consolidates the financial assistance that patients may apply for from four government agencies, namely, the DOH, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO).

“With the Malasakit Center Act in place to complement the Universal Health Care Law, we are a step closer towards making quality health care more accessible and affordable for all Filipinos, especially the indigent and poor patients in need of medical assistance from the government,” Go said.

Go expressed his gratitude hours before the ceremonial signing of the laws, when he attended the opening of the 52nd Malasakit Center in the country at the Ospital ng Malabon in Malabon City. “Pera niyo po ito. Ibinabalik lang sa inyo sa pamamagitan ng mabilis, maayos at maaasahang serbisyong medikal para sa lahat ng Pilipino,” he said.Wednesday

President Duterte himself credited Go on several occasions for giving him the idea of opening Malasakit Centers, when Go was still the Special Assistant to the President.

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Go sponsored the Malasakit Center Bill in the Senate, while his bill on the postponement of the village elections were consolidated with the bills of other senators.

Republic Act No. 11462, meanwhile, sets the next barangay and SK elections from the second Monday of May 2020 to December 5, 2022, and then on the first Monday of December 2025 and every three years thereafter.

The law extends the term of the current barangay and SK officials from two years to four years and a half.

“Mga barangays natin ang pinaka-frontline ng ating gobyerno sa paghahatid ng serbisyo at sa kampanya natin laban sa iligal na droga at kriminalidad. Kaya dapat lang na mabigyan natin sila ng oportunidad at sapat na oras upang makapagpatupad ng kani-kanilang mga programa at proyekto,” Go explained.

The President asked Congress to prioritize both bills when he delivered his fourth State of the Nation Address last July 22, 2019.

November 30-December 6, 2019

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AGUSAN DEL SUR Provincial Government Center, Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur Cellphone no. 0917-723-3455 E-mail: pia.agusandelsur@yahoo.com.ph Facebook: PIA Agusan del Sur

SURIGAO DEL NORTE/DINAGAT ISLANDS Parrucho corner Magallanes St., Surigao City Telephone no. (086) 826-9450 E-mail: piasurigao@gmail.com Facebook: PIA Surigao del Norte; PIA Dinagat Islands

SURIGAO DEL SUR Old DPWH Bldg., Telaje, Tandag City Telephone no. (086) 211-3353 E-mail: piasurigaosur@gmail.com; sds_pia@yahoo.com.ph Facebook: PIA Surigao del Sur