Caraga InFocus - October 08 - 14, 2016

CONTENTS 08 - 14 October 2016

PROVINCIAL NEWS

REGIONAL NEWS 8 9

DOH Caraga declares Agusan Norte as filariasis free province

Caraga partners, stakeholders feted on 22nd TESDA anniv

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farmer-beneficiaries 15 12 receive land titles during

Barbers calls on local 24 Rep. chief executives to mobilize

guv approves P7.3M 17 AgNor road project in Cabadbaran PDRRMC set to 18 AgNor conduct Contingency Plan

Surigao Norte holds in25 DTI phasing event cum technical

‘Serbisyo Caravan’

RIAC-SC Caraga visits seniorcitizen detainees in Butuan

10 Caraga displays 13 POPCOM model families

Volume 1, No. 28

Formulation workshop

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Gov’t’s anti-illegal drug operation successfully arrested 2 suspects in AgSur

anti-drug abuse council

session

SurSur bares activities for 27 DTI consumer welfare month celebration

should help protect 28 Youth Earth’s ozone says PENRO SurSur chief

USec graces distribution 21 DAR of 4.8M economic benefits to 114 ARB members in AgSur

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Caraga opens 23 MARINA extension office in Dinagat Islands

COVER

Disaster preparedness: enabling resilience

MINDANAO NEWS mother 33 Muslim gives birth to Mindanao’s first test-tube baby

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HEALTH NEWS

NATIONAL NEWS

updates energy and 31 FNRI nutrient recommendations

housing for Filipino 35 Subsidized families and no free housing

for Pinoys

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– NHA NDRRMC conducts predisaster risk assessment for effects of LPA

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News Briefs October of every year is declared as the National Statistics Month, as per Presidential Proclamation No. 647 s. of 1990.

The celebration aims to promote aims to promote the value of statistics to different sectors of the society.

The Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive & Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS) of DSWD Caraga recently concluded the conduct of the Crisis Communication Workshop which aims to capacitate Sub/Reg’l Prograd Management Office (S/ RPMO) & field workers on how to manage crisis situations faced during the program’s implementation.

The workshop which was held at the VCDU Prince Hotel, Butuan City was participated by workers from the 1st & 2nd Clusters (municipalities of Surigao del Norte, Province of Dinagat Islands & some areas of Surigao Sur).

A magnitude 4.4 earthquake was felt at 6.39pm, Sunday, Oct. 9, 2016 with epicenter located at Tubay, Agusan del Norte. Also felt in Butuan City at intensity 3 and Intensity 4 in Surigao City.

October 15 every year is celebrated as Global Handwashing Day. It is an annual global advocacy day dedicated to increasing awareness and understanding about the importance of handwashing with soap as an easy, effective, and affordable way to prevent diseases and save lives.

October 31 and November 1, 2016 are special non-working holidays in the Philippines.

Cover Story

Disaster preparedness: enabling resilience By: Venus L. Garcia

A

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COVER STORY

country fraught with plethora of perils can topple over its posture for sustained and inclusive growth. These various hazards either of natural and human-caused disasters are pretexts for building a more resilient community. Thus, making several initiatives and plans to ensure resilience by strengthening disaster preparedness and response capabilities a top priority of the Office of the Civil Defense (OCD) Caraga through the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Council (RDRRMC).

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In a positive note, as the Philippine head of state highlights the efforts for Philippine Drug War, officially named Campaign Plan Double Barrel, a campaign against illegal drugs in the Philippines, President Rodrigo Duterte yet heeds on accentuating ways to reduce the impacts of disasters and considers community resiliency a national imperative.

With this, multiple endeavors were undertaken and others still on the row have to be done by OCD-Caraga to respond to the challenge of the national government to thoroughly formulate approaches in managing

the risks and develop needed capabilities to achieve a very minimal damage and zero casualty.

“The governing law for disaster risk reduction management (DRRM) which is the R.A. 10121 stipulates that all local government units should have their own DRR office. So, being aware of the importance of the disaster planning, preparation and protocols, the need to capacitate more the DRRM officers is highly significant to reduce vulnerability through standards, regulation, resilient design, effective mitigation, and disaster risk reduction measures,� underscored OCD Caraga regional

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CARAGA INFOCUS

COVER STORY

COVER STORY CARAGA INFOCUS

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director and RDRRMC chairperson for local government units. Ochotorena Jose Manuel Ochotorena. bared that they have enlisted the help of ham radio amateurs in

Recounting its DRRM advocacy identifying the specifications of the and program implementation fundamental radio equipment that undertakings, the Civil Defense every operation center should at least Caraga conducted series of Incident acquire.

Command System Training Courses to different municipal and provincial “We give them specifications DRRM officers. of the communication radios that can be utilized in the entire Caraga

Also, the recently concluded region. This is for inter-operability and Local DRRM Operations Officers compatibility of dual-band radios Orientation has better helped the operated by adjacent localities and participants understand their roles and for them to communicate well without responsibilities in managing the DRRM unnecessary interruptions in times of operations center. disaster and emergencies,” explained Ochotorena.

Ochotorena emphasized how crucial it is for them to cascade Driven by his candor intent to the guidelines on reporting disaster empower the community and disaster/ incidents and the database emergency responders, the Caraga management system in order to Civil Defense chief admitted without establish uniformity in the templates of exaggeration about how far his office reports. has done in fulfilling its agency’s mandate, but he underlined that in

“We have to make sure that at the terms of preparedness, “we are always municipal and provincial levels they progressing and not regressing.” have their own functional local DRRM Operations Center,” said Ochotorena.

By collectively engaging all sectors of society in framing shared

Apart from these efforts, OCD responsibility, the nation can build Caraga targets the upgrading of resilient and safe communities. (VLG/ disaster communication equipment PIA-Caraga)

Photo Gallery

CARAGA INFOCUS

COVER STORY

Technical Education & Skills Development Authority Caraga Regl Consultation with Industry & TVET Stakeholders 12 October 2016

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DOH Caraga declares Agusan Norte as filariasis free province By: Nora C. Lanuza Molde

CARAGA INFOCUS

REGIONAL NEWS

BUTUAN CITY – The province of Agusan del Norte is now declared as filariasis free province by the Department of Health (DOH) Caraga region in a ceremony held recently here.

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The declaration was based on the Transmission Assessment Survey by the DOH with the support and guidance of the Provincial Health Office and the cooperation of the local government units (LGUs).

Network and the honing of local government leaders in bridging leadership and provision of health in the respective communities.

“The program targets individuals, families and communities living in

During the declaration, the endemic municipalities in 44 provinces province also received P1,000,000 in 12 regions,” Llacuna said. from DOH through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) citing the amount “By year 2018, the National as a performance-based grant inorder Filariasis Elimination Program (NFED) of to maintain its status as filariasis free DOH targeted that all of the identified province. municipalities will also be free from the disease,” Llacuna added.

According to DOH Caraga regional director Jose Llacuna, Filariasis is a parasitic disease caused DOH is on its course towards the by an infection with roundworms. (PIAimplementation of the Service Delivery Caraga)

RIAC-SC Caraga visits senior-citizen detainees in Butuan By: Jennifer P. Gaitano

other concerns. “We welcome any support from other agencies and organizations who wanted to give assistance to the elders inside the jail.

Thank you for your time and effort, and may you help more elders not only in the city but in the region in general,” he underlined.

During the visit, senior citizendetainees also received t-shirts from Christine Sabandan, officer-inDSWD and food from the committee. charge of the Office of the Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) here shared an

Jail Inspector Rienzon Roullo, enlightenment messages to the elders assistant warden of City Jail expressed and encourage them to continue his warm thanks to all the government life even inside the jail. “Everything agencies that visited the senior citizen- happens for a reason. Don’t be detainees to assess their needs and discouraged because we, your family

CARAGA INFOCUS

The DSWD conducted profiling to some 20 senior citizen-detainees while the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) Caraga spearheaded the legal consultation at the same time. A short program was also held as a tribute to the senior citizens.

REGIONAL NEWS

BUTUAN CITY – In line with the Senior Citizens Week celebration, the member agencies of the Regional Inter-Agency Committee for Senior Citizens (RIAC-SC) led by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga recently conducted a jail visitation to senior citizen-detainees in Barangay Ambago, this city.

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in the government will take care services of PhilHealth for its members of you. There is so much in life that especially the senior citizens. we should all appreciate and be thankful for,” she stressed.

The senior citizen-detainees were encouraged to take good

Also, Wilma Geralla, focal person care of their health so they can live of DSWD for RIAC-SC Caraga oriented longer and healthier even inside the senior citizen-detainees on their the jail by practicing healthy lifestyle. rights and on the services that the government has provided for them.

They are also informed of the local government’s Centenarian

Kenneth Po, public relations Program, wherein senior citizens who officer of Philippine Health (PhilHealth) will reach the age of 100 will be able Insurance Corporation also gave to receive a cash gift/incentive of updates on the programs and P100,000. (PIA-Caraga)

Caraga partners, stakeholders feted on 22nd TESDA anniv

CARAGA INFOCUS

REGIONAL NEWS

By: Robert E. Roperos

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BUTUAN CITY – More than 40 partners and stakeholders of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in Caraga Region were given recognition during the region’s celebration of the agency’s 22nd anniversary held recently.

CARAGA INFOCUS

Institutional Category, the Philippine Electronics and Communications Institute of Technology (PECIT); Candelaria Institute of Technology of Cabadbaran, Inc.; and the Northern Mindanao Colleges, Inc. received

Highlighting the Awarding plaque of recognition.

Ceremony is the presentation of this year’s Caraga Regional TESDA Idol Also, Celso B. Felipe from Butuan and Regional Kabalikat Award.

Doctor’s College was also recognized as the Provincial Tagsanay awardee

Nelson B. Sereño, Academic while Mr. Arne Madarieta of Father Head of Systems Technology Institute of Urios of Ampayon was awarded as Technology in San Francisco, Agusan Provincial TESDA Idol. del Sur was declared Regional TESDA Idol while the Municipality of Tagana- The local government units (LGUs) an in the Province of Surigao del Norte of this city and the Municipality of won the Regional Kabalikat Award. Nasipit, Agusan del Norte were those The two were the region’s contenders awarded under the LGU category. The in the national finals slated on 29th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine September 22, 2016 at TESDA Central Army was recognized for their peace Office, Taguig City. and skills development contribution to the province.

In his speech, TESDA-Caraga OIC-Regional Director Rey M. Cueva Awardees in the province of underscored the importance of the Agusan del Sur are as follows: Mayor activity. He said the conduct of the Jose T. Cuyos of the Municipality of awarding ceremony served as venue Rosario and Mayor Jesryl E. Masendo for TESDA Regional and Provincial of Talacogon were chosen to receive Offices in Caraga to recognize the plaque under the LGU category, while support extended by the Operating Asis K. Toma of the Provincial Land Units’ partners and stakeholders.

Transportation Office received award under the Government Partner Agency

“In our own little way, we are category. able to express our deepest thanks and gratitude to our partners and Sereño, the 2016 Provincial stakeholders in the different provinces TESDA Idol and Provincial Tagsanay and cities in Caraga Region,” he said. awardee Jason M. Equipado were also recognized by the provincial office.

Awardees in the province of Agusan del Norte include: Orange Meanwhile, Remegio Remedio Peel Plywood; and SR Metals, Inc. and Romeo Pascual, the provincial in the Industry Category. Under the Community Training and Employment

REGIONAL NEWS

Dubbed as “2016 Araw ng Parangal: “Pagpupugay sa Kawani at Kabalikat ng TESDA,” the ceremony was conducted at Villa Maria Luisa Hotel in Tandag City, Surigao del Sur.

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Coordinators (CTEC) of Talacogon and Loreto, respectively were also feted during the activity.

CARAGA INFOCUS

REGIONAL NEWS

Further, the Saint Paul University (SPU)-Surigao Campus, Surigao Education Center, and the Surigao State College of Technology (SSCT) Assessment Center led the awardees in Surigao del Norte under the Institutional Category.

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In the Industry Category, the Provincial Office has recognized Nickel Asia Corp. – Taganito Mining Company, In the government partner and Platinum Group Metals Corp. category, Police Acting Provincial (PGMC) for their regular support to Director PSSupt Romaldo Bayting; 36th the community training implemented. Infantry “Valor” Battalion, 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army Commanding

Four LGUs in the province made Officer LTC Randolph Rojas; and it as among the awardees in the 75th Infantry “Marauder” Battalion, province: Municipality of Tagana- 6th Infantry Division, Philippine Army an, Municipality of Del Carmen, Commanding Officer LTC Haron S Akaz Barangay Cagdianao, and Barangay were given plaque of recognition.

Hayanggabon.

Meanwhile, Eduardo C. Miña

Same with Agusan del Sur, the of the Access for Youth Training and provincial CTECs were also accorded Employment Center in Tandag City also with honors. They are: Ma. Margarita received plaque of recognition for L. Liquido, Janecito L. Jalbo, Jr., and being this year’s Provincial Tagsanay Randy S. Petallo. Provincial Tagsanay awardee.

Rene A. Nala also received Plaque of Recognition, while dxRS-RMN Surigao Awardees in the Province of was awarded as Media Partner of the Dinagat Islands were headed by provincial office.

Provincial Governor Glenda B. Ecleo and Congresswoman Arlene “Kaka”

Surigao del Sur awardees are Bag-ao of the Lone District of Dinagat composed of: Tandag City Councilor Islands, while May Marie O. Eviota of Denis Tan, Provincial Engineer Asberto Don Jose Ecleo Memorial Foundation Evallar, PDRRMO Abel De Guzman, and College of Science and Technology Provincial Agriculturist Marcos Quico was recognized as the Provincial under the LGU category.

Tagsanay. (TESDA-Caraga)

POPCOM Caraga displays model families By: May Ann O. Escobal

Yuson from Bayugan City for the 3rd Place.

Commission on Population (POPCOM) Caraga regional director Alexander A. Makinano highlighted the impact of a well-planned family size

The contestants are 4Ps and responsible parenting as shown beneficiaries and pre-selected on among the family contestants. the basis of their maternal health and family planning practices. Couples of “Planning your family well is very Surigao City, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Go important. Responsible parenting is bagged the 1st Place; Mr. and Mrs. a series of decisions of the parents Julito Espia of Surigao del Norte for to ensure the best possible life for the 2nd Place; and Mr. and Mrs. Ronie themselves, for their children, and

CARAGA INFOCUS

The family contestants joyfully showed off their group talents during the talent contest and parlor games.

They also proved how harmonious their family is despite of their situation in the community they live in.

REGIONAL NEWS

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte - Six families representing the different provinces and cities of Caraga displayed their family values and showcased their talents during the recent “Search for Planado at Talentadong Pamilyang Pilipino 2016” with the theme: “Matatag na Pamilya, Maunlad na Bukas.”

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for the communities they belong to,� and number of children according to Makinano emphasized. their socioeconomic, emotional, and psychological capacity.

The Responsible Parenthood and Family Planning (RPFP) The event was spearheaded Component under the Philippine by POPCOM Caraga in partnership Population Management Program with the Department of Health (DOH) (PPMP) envisions an empowered Caraga, in close coordination with population where parents, couples, the Department of Social Welfare and and individuals can freely decide Development (DSWD) Caraga and on and fully exercise their sexual and the local government units of Surigao reproductive health and rights. Said del Norte and Surigao City. (POPCOMprogram also aims to help couples Caraga) achieve their desired spacing, timing

Photo Gallery CFEA - OAD Radio Program Bantayog sa Kamatuoran (7:00 pm - 8:00 pm) (Every Saturday)

CARAGA INFOCUS

REGIONAL NEWS

15 October 2016

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12 farmer-beneficiaries receive land titles during ‘Serbisyo Caravan’

Planning Officer Annelyn Chan said that the distribution of titles is part of showing support to the government various services aimed to continue peace and development in the countryside.

“We are strongly supporting the said event as part of our efforts to provide support and legal services of the Department of Agrarian Reform and the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP),” Chan added.

CARAGA INFOCUS

BUTUAN CITY – The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in Agusan del Norte distributed a total of 21-hectare agricultural land to 12 Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) during the celebration of the “Serbisyo Peace Caravan 2016,” in line with the 2016 National Peace Consciousness Month held at Jabonga town on September 30, 2016.

PROVINCIAL NEWS

By: Gil E. Miranda

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According to Jabonga Municipal Agrarian Reform Program Officer (MARPO) Vicente Magallon, the farmer-beneficiaries of Barangays Cuyago, Magsaysay and San Vicente in Jabonga are now the owners of the land awarded to them under CARP.

“The said farmer-beneficiaries were happy upon receiving their certificate of titles as their proof of ownership and they are hoping for more support services from the department to make the land productive,” Magallon added.

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Rodulfo Salas, one of the beneficiaries, expressed thanks to DAR

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by providing land which is their basic resources for a living.

“Dako among pasalamat sa DAR sa titulo nga among nadawat (We are thankful to DAR for the land we received,” Salas said.

Jabonga Vice Mayor Hon. Glicerio Monton, Jr. reiterated that DAR played a key role in converting the land in Jabonga into Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title (CADT), whose farmer-beneficiaries are now the recipient of the delivery of peace and more development program of the government that could uplift their living condition. (DAR-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

AgNor guv approves P7.3M road project in Cabadbaran

Gov. Matba prioritized the said project to provide basic facility to the barangay through convenient road access to the city proper and neighboring sitios and barangays.

It is also in line with the thrust of the provincial government of providing basic services and infrastructure development program in the province.

The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Agusan del Norte authorized Gov. Matba through Sanggunian Resolution No. 028-2016, authored by Vice Governor Ramon AG. Bungabong, to sign for and in behalf of the province the Contract Agreement with Reyrose Construction and Supply for the immediate implementation of the said road project. (LGU-Agusan del Norte)

CARAGA INFOCUS

BUTUAN CITY – Agusan del Norte provincial governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell “Angel” M. Amante-Matba recently approved the implementation of the infrastructure project Rehab Plus/Improvement of Comagascasdel Pilar-Pirada Provincial Road in Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte with a total cost of P7,337,470.27 funded under the Motor Vehicle Users Charge (MVUC).

PROVINCIAL NEWS

By: Aimee B. Sienes

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AgNor PDRRMC set to conduct Contingency Plan Formulation workshop By: Nora C. Lanuza Molde

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

BUTUAN CITY – The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council of the province of Agusan del Norte will hold a four-day planning workshop on October 18 to 21 at Gazebo Pools and Restaurant in Cabadbaran City.

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According to PDRRMO officer calamities brought by natural hazards.

Erma Suyo, the four-day Contingency (NCLM/PIA-Agusan del Norte) Planning Formulation Workshop for Typhoon will help prepare the province to natural hazards. The province’s contingency plan will serve as a tool for an effective incident response, Suyo said.

“The workshop is aimed to ensure that the province of Agusan del Norte will have an all-hazard approach contingency plan,” Suyo added.

Participants are expected to contribute in ensuring the readiness of the province to efficiently respond to

Photo Gallery

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Press Conference with TESDA Sec. Guiling A. Mamondiong 12 October 2016

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Gov’t’s anti-illegal drug operation successfully arrested 2 suspects in AgSur

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

By: Cpt Joe Patrick A Martinez

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CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - Troops of 26th Infantry Battalion under 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army successfully supported the law enforcers and the Municipal Anti-Illegal Drug Abuse Council (MADAC) of Bunawan, Agusan del Sur during the simultaneous implementation of the eight search warrants at P-1, Brgy Consuelo, Bunawan, Agusan del Sur on Thursday at around 7:20 a.m.

By virtue of the search warrants issued on September 30, 2016 by Judge Dymphna C. Gozon-Labindao of 1st Municipal Circuit Trial Court in San Francisco, Agusan del Sur, the joint government operation has been launched and successfully recovered nine sealed transparent plastic sachets of shabu weighing of about 395 grams with an estimated market value of P4,661,000 and assorted drug paraphernalia.

The authorities immediately arrested the two suspects namely, Saada Cabugatan Macasalong, 23 year old, married; and Amil Sultan, age unknown, single, who are caught in the possession of these prohibited drugs during the said operation.

They were among the identified personalities who are included in the police’s drug list in the said town and among the eight personalities included

in the search warrant orders. The two will be facing criminal charges on violations of the Republic Act 9165 also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

and recovery of illegal drugs and drug paraphernalia,” said Madrigal.

“You have exhibited the highest form of professionalism especially on the proper implementation and

Major General Benjamin Madrigal execution of the search and arrest Jr., Commander of 4th Infantry Division procedure. lauded the smooth implementation of the said operation.

This shall serve as a stern warning to everyone who uses illegal drugs

“Our increased coordination with or involved in this kind of illegal the Philippine National Police resulted activities. The government forces are to the success of the operation. I more persistent and focused to hunt commend all the people involved in you down and bring you to the court planning and execution that led to the of law,” added Madrigal. (4ID PA/PIAsuccessful arrest of these two suspects Agusan del Sur)

DAR USec graces distribution of 4.8M economic benefits to 114 ARB members in AgSur

A total of 4.8M economic benefits earned from the oil company accumulated for seven long years since 2009 was finally released to the farmers of the Ronquillo Group. The distribution was agreed upon by the NGEI ARB MPC and FPPI MPC during the Farmer’s Dialogue on September 16, 2016 where members of Ronquillo

Group were advised to affiliate to either of the two coop recognized by the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA).

“With the commitment of the new administration as well as the strategies of the Task Force and intervention of the DAR Central

CARAGA INFOCUS

SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur – Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Undersecretary for Field Operations, Atty. Marcos D. Risonar Jr. recently graced the distribution of economic benefits to 114 Agrarian Reform Beneficiary (ARB) members of NGEI MultiPurpose Cooperative (MPC) held at Mabe’s Savory Place here.

PROVINCIAL NEWS

By: Rechel D. Besonia

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PROVINCIAL NEWS CARAGA INFOCUS

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Office headed by Usec. Risonar, we are able to fast track the distribution process and give what is due to our farmer beneficiaries,” said Julita A. Ragandang, regional director of DAR Caraga.

Usec. Risonar, during his message, urged the ARBs to make use of the money very well. “You come a long way before this moment came into realization. Given the struggles you faced along the way fighting for your rights as an ARB, finally you will now receive what you have dreamed

of for a long time,” he said.

For Rodonia E. Alviso, the ingenuity of the DAR is very remarkable. “Ako nagpasalamat ug dako sa tabang sa atong ahensya sa DAR nga sa kadugayan nahuptan na gayod namo ang dugay ra namong gipaabot (I am very thankful to DAR for their continuous effort in helping us through this endeavor. After a long wait, we finally received what we have longed for a long time),” she gasped in excitement. (DAR-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

MARINA Caraga opens extension office in Dinagat Islands

The new office, which is located at the Port of San Jose, San Jose town in Dinagat Islands was formally opened and inaugurated on Wednesday, September 28, 2106.

police chief PP/Supt. Froilan Caturla in behalf Surigao City PPA Manager Mildred J. Padilla led the blessing, ribbon cutting and formal opening of the satellite office.

MARINA Caraga regional director In his mesage, Dir. Carpio said Engr. Emmanuel D. Carpio, along with that the structure was conceived from Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) port the desire to usher in a new culture

CARAGA INFOCUS

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte - The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) Caraga expanded its services in Caraga region with the opening of its extension office in Dinagat Islands.

PROVINCIAL NEWS

By: Susil D. Ragas

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of service where people’s welfare matters most and to improve and regulate the maritime industry of the island.

in the province.

“The new office is a big help for Dinagatnons especially the maritime industry in the island for they will no longer need to travel to Surigao City

“Our presence in the island is vital just to transact maritime permits and in carrying out the agencies thrust, other related matters,” PP/Supt Caturla which is zero accident and employing said. our mandate to secure the safety and seaworthiness of the all motorboat,” Representatives from different Carpio said. national line agencies, provincial and municipal officials, motorboat

Meanwhile, PP/Supt.

Froilan operators, personnel from MARINA, Caturla congratulated the MARINA PPA and the Phil. Navy witnessed the officials and all stakeholders for the blessing and inauguration of the said new beginning and another milestone office. (SDR/PIA-Dinagat Islands)

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Rep. Barbers calls on local chief executives to mobilize anti-drug abuse council

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SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte – Surigao del Norte 2nd district representative Robert Ace S. Barbers once again hits out at the uncooperative local government units (LGUs) for their inaction to lead the fight against illegal drugs in their respective areas.

“The challenge now is for the local government units to mobilize the antidrug abuse council in their respective areas. There’s an existing law for this. LGUs can be penalized for gross negligence due to their passiveness,” Barbers said.

He said that according to Section 51 of R.A. 9165, LGUs shall appropriate a substantial portion of their respective annual budgets to assist in or enhance the enforcement of the Dangerous

Drugs Act by giving priority to preventive or educational programs and the rehabilitation or treatment of drug dependents.

“Every Provincial Drug Abuse Council must spearhead the training and capacity-building activities of their respective Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Councils to enable them to effectively help in this grave war on drugs,” Barbers added. (SDR/Congressional Office/PIASurigao del Norte)

The two-day event is anchored who already implemented green on the theme, “Sustaining the Promotion measures in their establishments and of Green Economic Development.” those from the government sector who continuously supporte3d the green

The first day of the event initiatives of DTI. highlighted the gains of the Promotion of Green Economic Development Successful “Greened MSMEs” (ProGED) Project in the province shared happily their stories in greening through the testimonies of Micro and the positive results of adopting Small Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) green measures in the businesses.

CARAGA INFOCUS

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Surigao del Norte provincial office in partnership with the Deutsche Gesellschaft fur International Zussamenarbeit (GIZ) spearheaded a two-day in-phasing event cum technical session on green economic development held recently at Parkway Hotel, this city.

PROVINCIAL NEWS

DTI Surigao Norte holds in-phasing event cum technical session

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CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

They encouraged other MSMEs to green so that they too will benefit and enjoy the gains of using green sector.

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solar panels, Edward Marcs Inc. for SEDNA Aircon powered by solar panels, Easy Link for Zero payment (changing of existing bulbs to LED), Barring Technologies for waste water treatment and Thehco Green Technology for green vehicles discussed their available technologies for MSMEs.

The event also highlighted the commitments of other national line agencies, local government units and other stakeholders in the province to jointly pursue green economic development through the “Tree of Aside from discussions, the Commitment.� resource persons also showcased their existing green technologies that

On the other hand, a technical will help MSMEs operation become session on green practices especially sustainable and competitive. along the key environmental hotspots namely: energy, water, A total of 95 participants solid waste, natural resource, attended the said event which was pollution, transportation, and material graced by Vice Governor Arturo consumption were undertaken on the Carlos A. Egay, Jr and facilitated by second day of the event.

ProGED Senior Adviser Raquel Capio.

(DTI-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del

Resource persons from Sheridan Norte) Marketing, Inc. for LED bulbs and

DTI SurSur bares activities for consumer welfare month celebration By: Nida Grace P. Barcena

Expectation Survey with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) on October 5; Briefing on Labor Laws on October 17; and the Provincial Quiz Show on October 21 - winners will represent the province for the regional level.

This year’s celebration carries the theme, “Consumer Protection:

This will be followed by radio Shared Responsibility” with Banko guesting with the ConsumerNet Sentral ng Pilipinas as the lead members focusing on consumer– agency, it was learned. related matters and updates of programs/activities of the different October was declared government agencies to be aired Consumer Month by the virtue of over Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag on Proclamation number 1098 signed October 4. on September 26, 1997, by then former President Fidel V. Ramos.

Other activities are: Consumer’s (FEA/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

CARAGA INFOCUS

Romel Oribe, DTI provincial director, said the month long celebration kicked-off with a motorcade this morning joined by the ConsumerNet members and business establishments followed by a market inspection at the Moonglow Public Market, this city.

PROVINCIAL NEWS

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) here recently bared its activities for the celebration of the consumer welfare month this October.

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Youth should help protect Earth’s ozone says PENRO SurSur chief By: Nida Grace P. Barcena

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

(Photo by Engr. Monfeljan A. Jurado)

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TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur - In celebration of the National Ozone Protection Month, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) chief Jose Flavio Concha called on the youth to help protect the ozone layer and fight against global warming and global climate change.

During the symposium on Ways to Mitigate Global Warming spearheaded by the Diocesan School Science Club and participated by the secondary students held at the Municipal Gymnasium in Tago town, this province, Concha, in his message read by PENRO information officer Johny Natad, urged all the students

to help avert the impact of global warming and depletion of ozone layer.

“It is not enough for the youth, who are the future young scientists, to have equip with knowledge and wisdom but also have the will and consistent action to fight against global warming and global climate change,” said Concha.

“It is the desire of DENR to partner and muster the youth in environmental initiatives to include an endeavor to protect Ozone via symposium or forum,” Concha further said, believing that the voices and actions of youth represent an international initiatives to help safeguard the ozone layer through the calls and advocacy to control the production, consumption and use of ozone-depleting substances such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydro fluorocarbons (HFCs) among others which deplete the ozone layer and are widely used in refrigerators, air conditioners, fire extinguishers, in dry cleaning, as solvents for cleaning, electronic equipment and as agricultural fumigants like.

The National Ozone Protection Month is annually observed pursuant to Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer entered into force on January 1, 1989 and DepEd Memorandum No. 358, s. 2007.

(JSN/PENRO-SDS/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Explaining that Science needed the focus on understanding, adaptation and preparation in mitigating the global warming and climate change, Concha encouraged the youth the need to learn apply some old hard lessons on saving energy, walking, eating more veggies, and reaching out to the grassroots communities in order to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

Concha also revealed that DENR Secretary Gina Lopez wanted to facilitate and motivate the youth’s inspiration, dedication, and energy

in the mobilization for environmental action.

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“By simply planting trees, practicing best waste management, applying best practices in sustainable organic agriculture, saving energy utilization, supporting the use and adoption of alternative source of renewable energy, carpooling or reduce driving car used with fossil fuels, consuming more veggies locally harvested than processed meat are some easy ways to help reduce carbon footprints,” added Concha.

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Photo Gallery GPK EVALUATION 2016

(Gawad Probinsya sa Kapaligiran) LGU, Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

11 October 2016

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From the 1989 Philippine Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) to the 2002 RENI, the Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST) modernized the new RENI, now termed as the Philippine Dietary Reference Intakes (PDRI), with current energy and nutrient intakes, standards, and

CARAGA INFOCUS

The Recommended Energy and Nutrient Intakes (RENI) are the daily recommended amounts of energy and nutrients, including the macronutrients (carbohydrates, protein, and fat) and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) to maintain the nutritional well-being and health of Filipinos of various age groups and categories (non-pregnant, pregnant, and lactating).

HEALTH NEWS

FNRI updates energy and nutrient recommendations for Pinoys

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requirements especially for the Filipino old and above due to lower liver population. storage efficiency of ingested vitamin A in the body.

As concepts of health and nutritional adequacy change, the The FNRI-DOST is committed to PDRI encompasses a set of multi- lead the nation to a healthy citizenry level recommendations composed by continuously innovating and of nutrient-based reference values. improving food and nutrition tools for the Filipinos.

These multi-level reference values include estimated average The PDRI is a helpful tool in requirements, recommended energy updating the existing food and and nutrient intakes, adequate nutrition policies in public health intakes, and tolerable upper intake programs of the country to achieve levels. a well-nourished citizenry.

Moreover, the PDRI includes the acceptable macronutrient distribution ranges of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, as well as recommended intakes of dietary fiber and polyunsaturated fatty acids.

CARAGA INFOCUS

HEALTH NEWS

In addition to the recommended intakes of macronutrients and micronutrients of the 2002 RENI, the new dietary reference intake features the maximum level of sodium and free sugar.

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However, the requirements for vitamin A have increased for 10 years

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 Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City; Tel/Fax Num: 8372934 and 8373164; email: mvc@fnri. dost.gov.ph, mar_v_c@yahoo.com; FNRI-DOST website: http://www.fnri. dost.gov.ph.; FNRI Facebook page: facebook.com/ FNRI-DOST; FNRI Twitter account: twitter.com/FNRI-DOST. (Jund Rian A. Doringo, FNRI-DOST S&T Media Service/PIA-Caraga)

Baby boy Muhagher, who weighed 3.22 kg. and measured 49 cm. long, is the first baby born from a successful pregnancy through the in vitro fertilization (IVF) offered by Brokenshire Hospital, which opened its

IVF facility in October last year.

IVF is a process by which an egg is fertilized by sperm outside the body. It is a medical procedure where the egg cell and the sperm cell are extracted

CARAGA INFOCUS

DAVAO CITY - A Muslim mother gave birth to Mindanao’s first testtube baby at the Brokenshire Hospital here at 3:43 p.m. Thursday.

MINDANAO NEWS

Muslim mother gives birth to Mindanao’s first test-tube baby

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from the couple to join them in the Care Center in Davao at Brokenshire laboratory.

Hospital.

After the fertilized egg or embryo is formed, which takes about two weeks to develop, it will be injected in the uterus of the woman.

“I am so happy but also nervous because my wife is still unconscious,” said Gamal Pagul, father of Muhagher.

Gamal was beside his wife, Mydean, when she gave birth.

CARAGA INFOCUS

MINDANAO NEWS

It was the most awaited moment of Gamal and Mydean, who both agreed to have a baby of their own through the IVF procedure. Gamal, 29, has one child by his first marriage while Mydean, 39, has three children from a previous relationship. Mydean underwent ligation after bearing her three children.

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The couple is from Wa-o, Lanao del Sur. Gamal works as a jail officer at the Bureau of Jail Management in Wa-o while Mydean is a public school teacher in Wa-o.

Before the final decision on IVF, Gamal said they did some research through the Internet. They also obtained the support of their parents.

“It is not against our religious belief,” Gamal said when asked if it was not against the Muslim religion and culture. “Among pangandoy nga maka-anak mi (It is our wish to have a baby),” he said in an interview with reporters.

Going through the entire nine months of pregnancy, Gamal said they had to travel to Davao City for Mydean’s monthly visit to her doctor.

They did not mind the travel despite her condition. “Our ultimate goal was to have the baby and… of course ligtas ang asawa ko (my wife is safe),” he said.

Mydean is only one of the successful pregnancies being taken care of by the Fertility Care Center (FCC), which has a 42 percent successful pregnancy rate. Of the successful pregnancies, 60 percent of the women are within the 35 years and below age bracket while 38 percent are in the 35 years and above age bracket.

Gamal recalled that when they decided to have a child, they sought the help of Dr. Lana of Simbulan Hospital in Bukidnon. The couple had wanted the Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), a type of artificial insemination procedure for treating infertility but it The IVF facility, the first in was unsuccessful because Mydean Mindanao, opened on Oct. 28 has been ligated. last year, aiming to provide a more affordable operation compared to

The doctor suggested they see Dr. those in Luzon. (PNA)CVL/LILIAN C. Maria Lourdes Cabling, the laboratory MELLEJOR/LDP/EDS director and president of the Fertility

Subsidized housing for Filipino families and no free housing – NHA

According to NHA Acting General Manager Marcelino P. Escalada, Jr., “The NHA under the Duterte Administration ensures the public that it will address the country’s housing needs as it will lead the construction and development of new communities and maximize government resources.”

NHA would like to emphasize that its housing program only caters to the lowest 30 percent, the poorest of the urban population.

It is mandated to provide housing and related assistance to ISFs living along danger zones and areas affected by government infrastructure projects.

CARAGA INFOCUS

QUEZON CITY - Committed to housing the indigent Filipinos, the National Housing Authority (NHA) reiterates its mission to provide adequate and affordable housing to low-income and underprivileged families.

NATIONAL NEWS

www.rappler.com

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Specifically, the National Government prioritizes housing programs within the six year Philippine Development Plan (PDP) which is the basis of NHA’s target each year.

Currently, the on-going housing projects of the Authority have identified family-beneficiaries who were qualified during the planning and pre-qualification process which will be the basis for their award.

CARAGA INFOCUS

NATIONAL NEWS

Likewise, the NHA extends its service delivery to families affected by calamities, housing for indigenous peoples and local/ regional housing and resettlement projects in coordination with the Local Government Units (LGUs) and congressional representatives.

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Towards resolving the housing backlog, the programs for ISFs are made sustainable and cost recoverable in order to benefit more families.

Per NHA’s policies, for housing intended for the ISFs, price subsidies are extended so that the housing package prices are affordable.

Based on the UDHA, the eligibility criteria to avail government housing are the following: 1) must be a Filipino citizen; 2) must be an underprivileged and homeless citizen; 3) must not own any real property whether in the urban or rural areas, and; 4) must not be a professional squatter or a member of squatting syndicates.

In a related story, the NHA in compliance with President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s statement on “No demolition without relocation”, shall continue to comply with the provisions of the Urban Development Housing Act (UDHA) of 1992 (RA7279), which provides for a humane relocation and resettlement strategy that includes pre-relocation, relocation and post relocation processes. (NHA)

NDRRMC conducts pre-disaster risk assessment for effects of LPA QUEZON CITY - The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) Pre Disaster Risk Assessment (PDRA) Core Group met yesterday, 12 October 2016 at the NDRRM Operations Center, Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City, to monitor the effects of a Low Pressure Area (LPA) inside the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR).

The issuance of Tropical Cyclone Further, a follow up PDRA meeting Warning Signal Number 1 is possible shall be conducted tomorrow at 3:00

by Friday over the provinces of PM. (NDRRMC)

NATIONAL NEWS CARAGA INFOCUS

Catanduanes, Camarines Sur, Albay and Sorsogon.

Moderate to occasionally heavy rains within the 500 km diameter of the tropical cyclone is expected.

Likewise, there is possibility of cancellation of sea travel between the Provinces of Sorsogon and Samar Area on Friday. By Sunday morning, the weather

Civil Defense Deputy system is expected to be closest to Administrator for Administration Asec Polilio Island-Quezon-Aurora area.

Kristoffer James E Purisima chaired the meeting attended by representatives The National Council has advised from DOST, DILG, DSWD, NEDA, DOT, all concerned Regional and Local DSWD, PAGASA, PHIVOLCS, DENR- DRRM Councils to take precautionary MGB, DepEd, DPWH, DOH, Project measures in relation to the weather NOAH, AFP, PNP, PCG, LMP and PIA. It system. Residents in low-lying areas was also participated in, via Skype, by are alerted against the possibility of the PDRA Core Group of the Regional landslides and flashfloods.

DRRM Council of Regions 1, 2, 3, 5 and CAR.

DILG has ensured the local governments’ readiness via Operation

PAGASA reported that the LPA LISTO while DSWD assured the located 715 km East of Catarman, prepositioning of food packs and Northern Samar will bring cloudy skies funds in the regional offices likely to be with moderate to occasionally heavy affected. rains and isolated thunderstorms over Eastern Visayas and CARAGA. It is likely At 6:00 PM, today, the NDRRM to develop into a Tropical Depression Operations Center will raise its alert within 24 hours and will be named, status to BLUE to continuously monitor “Karen”. the effects of the weather system.

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Surigao del Norte/Dinagat Islands

RECHEL D. BESONIA JUND RIAN A. DORINGO MAY ANN O. ESCOBAL CPT JOE PATRICK A MARTINEZ LILIAN C. MELLEJOR GIL E. MIRANDA ROBERT E. ROPEROS AIMEE B. SIENES CONGRESSIONAL OFFICE DAR-ADN/ADS LGU-AGUSAN DEL NORTE DTI-SURIGAO DEL NORTE POPCOM-CARAGA S&T MEDIA SERVICE TESDA-CARAGA JSN/PENRO-SDS CVL/LDP/EDS, FNRI-DOST NDRRMC, NHA, 4ID PA, PNA Business Manager

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