Caraga InFocus - October 15 - 21, 2016

CONTENTS 15 - 21 October 2016

PROVINCIAL NEWS

REGIONAL NEWS 7

TESDA chief bares opportunities for Caraganons

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DepEd now accepts Senior High School registration

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TESDA chief assures training for drug surrenderees

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Volume 1, No. 29

athletic meet 10 Provincial opens in Tandag evaluators start envi 11 GPK assessment to 19 SurSur LGUs

satellite office in AgSur 16 NBI formally inaugurated AgSur launches Amoma 17 DAR Care virgin coconut oil

Surigao Norte recognizes 12 DTI ‘green champions’

creates committee to 19 AgNor support rehab program

holds Peace Caravan’ 13 OWWA-Caraga 20 ‘Serbisyo provincial PESO conference in benefited IPs in AgNor Dinagat Islands

Caraga prepares 14 DSWD workers for crisis situations

under Kalahi-CIDSS program

Butuan school 22 157 paper advisers undergo enhancement training

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A mother’s top priority HEALTH NEWS and excessive 24 Smoking alcoholic drinking a deadly tandem

MINDANAO NEWS signs deal with PCCI to 26 MinDA enhance trade in Mindanao

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NATIONAL NEWS hosts global forum on 29 Manila federalism continues to preposition 31 DSWD relief for ‘Lawin’; families affected by ‘Karen’ start to return home

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News Briefs President Duterte remains most trusted government official.

The latest Pulse Asia survey showed that Duterte is the most approved top government official with 86%, a five-point decrease from his rating in July 2016. Only 3% distrust the President while 11% is undecided.

A total of 27 government agencies, civil society & private organizations in Caraga region have extended their full support in today’s Serbisyo Peace Caravan in Brgy. Poblacion, Santiago, Agusan del Norte. The services offered help in addressing issues on health, poverty, grooming, livelihood, education, social, legal & land concerns.

The Phil. Red Cross Agusan del Norte-Butuan City Chapter with its partners from the government & private sector are convening for its meeting held at Balanghai Hotel & Convention Center, Butuan City.

Watch out and support “KWADRADO: A four-man visual arts exhibition” on Nov. 26 - Dec. 3, 2016 at Robinson’s Place, Butuan City with visual artists Chito Alegre, Ronnie Rudinas, Cris Tamis, & Resty Sala. This art exhibit for a cause will benefit the Golden Heart Volunteers. Said event is also co-sponsored by PIA Caraga; 4th CMO Battallion, Phil. Army; Metrobank; Order of Discalced Agustinians; Oras sa Kinaiyahan; & Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas.

The Surigao Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (SCCI) was awarded with a plaque of appreciation for successfully hosting the 25th Mindanao Business Conference (MinBizCon) last August 24-26, 2016 by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry during the 42nd Philippine Business Conference held at Marriott Hotel, Pasay City. (SCCI)

Cover Story

A mother’s top priority By: Mark Davey D. Reyes

CARAGA INFOCUS

COVER STORY

E

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dna B. Balagulan, a laborer in the Kalahi-CIDSS believes that her simple sacrifice of labor will ensure her children’s welfare.

Her closed-knit community in Barangay Del Rosario, Tubod, Surigao del Norte has been blessed with basic services –such as their local public elementary school. However, parents are still calling for their local government to address the problem of the flowing river parallel to the school fence at the back of the school campus.

the program implementation – even landing as a woman paid laborer for the construction of their sub-project.

“Dako kaayo ug tabang ang proyekto namo. Masiguro na ang safety sa among mga anak, nakaincome pa mi sa among pagpanarbaho (The project has really helped us dearly.

We can now ensure the safety of our children, and at the same time, help us

With the emergence of climate earn a living through the employment change and the unpredictable opportunity),” Edna said. (DSWDseasonal patterns, Edna is one of the Caraga/PIA-Surigao del Norte) first to call for action to have peace of mind during school days and even during the rainy season.

She actively participated in their community activities for

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The people of the said community proposed for the construction of a 105 linear meters Riverbank Protection (Flood Control) sub-project which will cover the area behind their public elementary school.

COVER STORY

During the KapitBisig Laban sa KahirapanComprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS) 2nd cycle implementation, the community, with a resounding voice, voted for a sub-project to put their worries aside.

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Photo Gallery PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE CARAGA Lecture on Managing Media Relations

PRO 13, Camp Rafael C Rodriguez, Libertad, Butuan City

CARAGA INFOCUS

COVER STORY

20 October 2016

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TESDA chief bares opportunities for Caraganons

With the new administration, the secretary emphasized that there is an increase in the number of scholarship grants along with other services and programs of the agency for Caraga.

scholarship grants are ready for this year, much higher compared to the previous year’s 17,000 for Caraga region. It could possibly increase, if necessary,” disclosed Mamondiong.

TESDA will also give priority to the

“There is more opportunities for Indigenous Peoples (IPs) youths for the all, especially with the government’s scholarship grants and other relevant provision of scholarship. Some 30,000 skills trainings.

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BUTUAN CITY – In time with the Regional Consultation with Industry and TVET Stakeholders here, Sec. Guiling Mamondiong, director general of Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) bared good news and opportunities for Caraganons.

REGIONAL NEWS

By: Jennifer P. Gaitano

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Sec. Mamondiong also reiterated the online registration of those who are interested to avail of the skills training in their office to ensure that those deserving applicants could really avail of the program of TESDA and will not be put to waste.

On the displaced OFWs, Mamondiong encouraged them to visit TESDA offices in their respective areas to avail of the special skills training for them as part of the reintegration program of TESDA so they can continue their livelihood.

TVET stakeholders is very important to address the needs, issues and concerns that exist in the region.

This is why TESDA has gathered different sectors to really provide the immediate needs of the region in terms of employment, tourism, and agroindustrial activities, among others.

He added that they are mandating their employees to become trainers in their respective area of responsibility to cover the number of trainees who would like to avail of the skills training especially with the number of illegal drug surrenderees

The secretary, further stressed who are subject to be trained as part of that a dialogue with the industry and their rehabilitation. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

DepEd now accepts Senior High School registration By: Mariza A. Arjona

CARAGA INFOCUS

REGIONAL NEWS

BUTUAN CITY – The Department of Education (DepEd) has set October 16 to 29, 2016 as the schedule for the early registration for the Senior High School (SHS).

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In Butuan City, incoming Grade 11 students for the next school year 2017 to 2018 can now register to any schools where the specialized track of their choice is being offered.

According to Dr. Israel Reveche, SHS division coordinator, the early registration will help determine DepEd on the resources needed like the classrooms, teachers and learning materials needed in implementing SHS.

K to 12 Program,” Reveche said.

Students are now required to go through Grades 11 and 12 before completing or graduating from high school, he added.

SHS has four academic tracks – the GAS or General Academic Strand; STEM or Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics; Humanities and Social Sciences or HUMSS track; and Accountancy, Business and Management (ABM).

“The Grades 11 and 12 were (DepEd Butuan City Division) added with the newly-implemented

TESDA chief assures training for drug surrenderees By: Robert E. Roperos

The official explained that with the increasing number of drug surrenderees, the Duterte administration is keen on empowering them by providing skills training that will change their lifestyle. “The skills trainings that they will obtain will

allow them to change their lives for the better,” the official said in Tagalog language.

When asked how this process will be undertaken, the official said those surrenderees who need to be rehabilitated must undertake the rehabilitation first. “After the period of rehabilitation and found out that they are already okay, then that’s the time that TESDA will come in and provide them the skills training according to their choice,” Sec. Mamondiong said.

(TESDA-Caraga)

CARAGA INFOCUS

Speaking before the local trimedia during the press conference held in one of the local convention centers here, Sec. Mamondiong said this is one of the priority programs of the agency in support to the program of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte.

REGIONAL NEWS

BUTUAN CITY – Sec. Guiling A. Mamondiong, DirectorGeneral of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) on Tuesday said that the agency is willing to provide skills training to drug surrenderees.

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Provincial athletic meet opens in Tandag By: Nida Grace P. Barcena

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – Thousands of delegates from the municipalities of Surigao del Sur will be heading to the city as they vie for supremacy in the Annual Provincial Athletic Meet slated from October 17 to 21 here.

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In a letter sent to Philippine Information Agency, the venue of this year’s activity will be held at the Surigao del Sur State University (SDSSU) Main Campus, this city. Other identified venues include Tago town and Barobo town for the swimming competition.

Elementary and Secondary at SDSSU Gym, Tandag City; Gymnastic (Boys and Girls) Elementary and Secondary and Taekwondo (Boys and Girls) Elementary and Secondary will be held at Gamut Gym, Tago; Sipa/Sepak Takraw at Victoria Basketball Court, Victoria, Tago; Tennis (Boys and Girls) Elementary and Secondary will be at DPWH Tennis Court, Tandag City; Volleyball (Boys and Girls) Elementary – Falcon Memorial Elementary School, Tago.

The week-long event will feature a number of sports disciplines, which will be held on the following venues: Futzal (girls) secondary; Softball - Elementary and Secondary; Volleyball (Boys and Girls) Secondary; and Special The said event will culminate on Games at SDSSU grounds, Tandag Friday, October 21. (PIA-Surigao del City; Table Tennis (Boys and Girls) Sur)

GPK evaluators start envi assessment to 19 SurSur LGUs By: Nida Grace P. Barcena

The first four-day assessment, which started last October 3, 2016 was conducted in CarCanMadCarLanCor (Carrascal, Cantilan, Madrid, Carmen, Lanuza, and Cortes) areas, Tago, and Tandag City. Other remaining LGUs will be be visited this week.

This year’s categorized into

competition is three according

to the income classifications: The city category; first to third class municipalities; and fourth to fifth class municipalities.

The evaluating team is composed of the representatives from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) as its team leader, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Education (DepEd), Philippine Information Agency (PIA), PENRO-LGU, Provincial Health Office (PHO), Provincial Planning and Development Office (PPDO), and Provincial Tourism Office. (NGBT/PIASurigao del Sur)

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The annual assessment aims to institutionalize the local communities to be more effective in the management of the environment. It also aims to inculcate to the communities that saving the environment must be their way of life.

PROVINCIAL NEWS

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – The Gawad Probinsiya sa Kapaligiran (GPK) evaluators team conducted a 10-day evaluation and assessment to two cities and 17 municipalities of this province.

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DTI Surigao Norte recognizes ‘green champions’

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

By: Susil D. Ragas

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SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Surigao del Norte provincial office has recognized the green champions of the province during the conduct of the ProGED (Promotion of Green Economic Development) Inphasing Event held recently at the Parkway Hotel, this city.

The four Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the tourism sector who were recognized and were given certificate of recognition are Mt. Bagarabon Beach Resort in Barangay Mabua, Surigao City; D’Islandersville Pension Hauz in Dapa, Surigao del Norte; Ocean 101 Beach Resort and Sta. Fe Homestay in

Barangay Sta. Fe, all in General Luna, Siargao Island.

According to Provincial Director Celestino L. Negapatan, as per monitoring activity conducted by the DTI, the above-mentioned MSMEs have implemented some of the best practices in greening their establishments after

they have attended series of ProGED del Norte Governor Sol F. Matugas for sensitization activities undertaken since her ‘Kahapsay Kalinaw Program.’ The February of 2015.

City ENRO was also recognized for innovation and for converting plastic

“They have addressed the key wrappers to pavers and planters. hotspots in business operation, which included fuel, electricity, water, solid The Surigao City Tourism Office, waste, waste water and building Department of Environment and design thereby cutting costs and Natural Resources, Surigao Chamber generating more profits for their of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) business and revenue for the were also given recognition for government,” Negapatan said. their continued support to greening the tourism value chain and the

Meanwhile, a certificate of environment. (SDR/DTI-Surigao del recognition was also given to Surigao Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

OWWA-Caraga holds provincial PESO conference in Dinagat Islands

BUTUAN CITY - The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Caraga conducted the Provincial PESO Conference in San Jose town, province of Dinagat Islands on September 30, 2016.

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

By: Sheamin Lae C. Dogmoc

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Some 29 participants mostly Public Employment Service Office (PESO) managers and staffs from different municipalities of the province attended the conference.

To clarify the confusion as to the difference of NRCO and OWWA, Bangcoyo emphasized that every program or assistance has its own eligibility requirements. Thus, such cases that are no longer eligible for

As the primary intention of keeping OWWA assistance or programs shall the PESO participants updated of be directly referred to NRCO for the recent programs and services of accommodation.

OWWA, Rodel P. Deligero, Overseas Workers Welfare Officer (OWWO-III) Several OFWs were also present discussed the Relief Assistance Program during the event and were able to raise (RAP) together with the Balik Pinas, their respective concerns.

Balik Hanapbuhay Program (BPBH).

“Our OFWs finally received the

Meanwhile, Bepu Brylle answers they all wanted to hear. Thank Bangcoyo, Family Welfare Officer, laid you also for clarifying their confusions,” down the functions and programs of said Dinagat Islands PESO Manager the National Reintegration Center for Emma Y. Mausisa. (OWWA-Caraga/ OFWs (NRCO).

PIA-Dinagat Islands)

DSWD Caraga prepares workers for crisis situations under Kalahi-CIDSS program

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

By: Marko Dave D. Reyes

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

The workshop, which was held on September 27-29, 2016 at the VCDU Prince Hotel here was participated by workers from the 1st and 2nd Clusters (municipalities of Surigao del Norte, Province of Dinagat Islands, and some

areas of Surigao del Sur) of Kalahi-CIDSS Caraga.

The Kalahi-CIDSS is one of the programs of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)

The training aims to unify the program’s messaging for the different stakeholders from the RPMO down to the Area Coordinating Teams (ACTs) on the field especially in times of

The remaining workers who have not undergone the training workshop will have their sessions on a series of schedules for October – November.

DSWD Caraga would continue to capacitate its workers to ensure that the Department will be able to deliver responsive and compassionate services to the people of Caraga.

(Social Marketing Unit/DSWD Field Office Caraga/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

PROVINCIAL NEWS

With the dynamics of the implementation of the program, and with the inclusion of different partnerstakeholders, there is a major risk for problems/crisis to occur.

crisis and capacitate the workers on crisis management, specifically on how to respond to problems based on different situations encountered in the workplace.

CARAGA INFOCUS

that addresses the needs of barangays/ communities by giving them the opportunity to identify their needs, identify the project to address their needs, and allow them to implement the project themselves.

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CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

NBI satellite office in AgSur formally inaugurated

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PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur – A satellite office of the National Bureau Investigation (NBI) has been formally inaugurated recently at the Provincial Capitol, Gov. D.O. Plaza Government Center here.

NBI Caraga director lawyer Dante Gierran thanked Gov. Adolph Edward Plaza for giving NBI a space for its office at the Provincial Capitol. He said that someday he will turn this newly inaugurated office into a regular NBI District Office which will function like a regional office.

Gov. Plaza also promised the NBI director that he will extend his support to the bureau. The Governor made efforts for the establishment of the said NBI satellite office so that the people of the province and nearby towns in Surigao del Sur need not go to Butuan City and spend a lot of time and money just to secure an NBI clearance.

Meanwhile, it was also learned that the provincial government is working for the establishment of an extension office of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) in the province as well as the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA), Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and Philippine Statistics Office in the near future.

The governor further revealed that he intends to pursue the dreams of his late father, Gov. Democrito O. Plaza to have all these offices in one location - that is at the Gov. D.O. Plaza Government Center thereby bringing the government closer to the people. (JPG with report from Renato Bashir Ilupa/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

DAR AgSur launches Amoma Care virgin coconut oil

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur - The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) here has recently facilitated the media launching of KAAGAPMUCO’s Amoma Care Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) held at Gaisano Grand Mall, San Francisco, this province.

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

By Rechel D. Besonia

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KAAGAP Multi Purpose Cooperative was a recipient of 2015 Village Level Processing Center Enhancement Program (VLPCEP) and 2016 recipient of Up-Valuing of Agrarian Reform Beneficiary (ARB) products.

Thus, the DAR was able to assist them for the processing and approval of their License to Operate from the Food and Drugs Administration for their Virgin Coconut Oil product - the first to be awarded in Caraga Region.

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

The launching was designed to build a competitive market relationship and expose the product and convey the interest of varied consumers, boost the economic ability of the cooperative and its members by providing wider business opportunities through integrated social media strategy.

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KAAGAPMUCO General Manager Maximino Robles thanked the DAR for the assistance. “Dako among pasalamat sa mga ahensya nga nagtabang aron molambo ang among kooperatiba ilabi na sa DAR sa pagtabang aron maangkon namo ang among LTO ug sa pagpanguna alang sa launching niining among produkto.

Sa pagkakaron aduna kami 210 ka mga empleyado diin 80 porsyento niini mga Agrarian Refrom Beneficiaries (We are thankful for DAR for assisting the coop in acquiring the LTO from FDA and for facilitating the media launching. We now have a total of 210 employees whom 80 percent are Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries),” said Robles.

The launching cum ribbon cutting ceremony was graced by DAR Caraga Regional Director Julita Ragandang, CARPO Fe H. Mosquera, SP Member Edilberto Bastareche, representatives from other agencies like the Department of Trade and Industry, Phil. Coconut Authority, Department of Science and Technology, and Department of Agriculture.

“Congratulations to KAAGAPMUCO for the success of your endeavor. It is our mandate in the department to assist our ARBs to become entrepreneurs. I know that it’s a long and tedious process but because of the unity, cooperation and partnership that we have we are able to launch the product today,” Ragandang said in her message.

Virgin Coconut Oil is known for its various health benefits.

Because of its wide range of market demand nowadays, the members of KAAGAPMUCO took pride in becoming globally competitive being an importer, distributor, wholesaler and manufacturer of VCO products. (DARAgusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

AgNor creates committee to support rehab program

Through PPOC Resolution No. 2016-05 signed by PPOC chairperson and provincial governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba, the Special Action Committee is composed of the following: Chirman

- Atty. Ramie F. Duropan, Provincial Governor’s Office Peace and Order Focal Person; Members - Director Gilbert V. Buenafe, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA); Iglucito P. Duqueza, Department

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BUTUAN CITY – The province of Agusan del Norte through its Peace and Order Council (PPOC) has created a special action committee in support to the inter-agency rehabilitation program for the drug surrenderees.

PROVINCIAL NEWS

By: Nora C. Lanuza Molde

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of Education; Ellen Vee P. Chua, Department of the Interior and Local Government; Director Catalina O. Tacubao, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA); PSSupt Ernesto V Tendero, Police Provincial Office; Daisybiel O. Demavivas, Provincial Social Welfare and Nutrition Office; Paterno B. Olivera, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office; and Fr. Stephen M. Brongcano, Social Action Center Director.

The Special Action Committee is divided into three clusters. Cluster 1 will handle the profiling, screening, drug testing and provision support services during the identification

and classification process of drug personalities while the Cluster 2 is responsible in creating committees on family care, community development, capacity development and patient/ recovering drug dependent care during the rehabilitation process.

The Cluster 3 of the committee will provide programs and interventions like sustainable livelihood program, cash for work, Unlad Kabataan, National Drug Education Program, Drug Dependents Training Program, Therapuetic Community Modality Program, and Halfway House and Livelihood Training Center during the post-rehabilitation process. (NCLM/PIAAgusan del Norte)

‘Serbisyo Peace Caravan’ benefited IPs in AgNor

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

By: Jennifer P. Gaitano

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BUTUAN CITY – Some 2,000 indigenous peoples (IPs) have benefited from the joint “Serbisyo Peace Caravan” of the government agencies in coordination with the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process (OPAPP) conducted Friday in Barangay Baleguian, Jabonga, Agusan del Norte.

OPAPP program manager Oliver Binancilan disclosed that the caravan is aimed to provide services to the localities of Jabonga, in culmination of the Peace Month celebration.

“Services from government agencies are being brought here for our IP beneficiaries. We have been giving focus on the conflict-affected areas in the region, and after here in Agusan del Norte, similar activity will be conducted in the provinces of Agusan

del Sur, Surigao del Norte, and Surigao del Sur,” he said.

The said peace caravan is focused on prioritizing the IP communities in the municipalities of Agusan del Norte composed mainly of the Mamanwa and Manobo tribes.

During the whole day activity, jerry cans, buntis kits, seedlings and seeds, nutri curls and baby foods, and

“We are strongly supporting the activities of the OPAPP and other partners in providing basic services to the localities especially the IPs. Government agencies have been doing their best to reach out to the marginalized sector,” stressed Clase.

Also, Datu Raffy Pinao, Mamanwa chieftain of barangay Maraiging, Jabonga, Agusan del Norte underscored that their tribe was able to receive several services from the government agencies. He further

Fr. Carlito Clase, representing the expressed his overwhelming thanks to Caraga Conference for Peace and all agencies that extended assistance Development bared that they are to them. (PIA-Caraga)

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Mayor Jasmin Monton of Jabonga, Agusan del Norte expressed her warm gratitude and thanks to all the government agencies that extended their services to their municipality especially to the IP beneficiaries.

She added that there were four barangays in Jabonga that have availed from the caravan. The local government unit has also made sure that the conduct of said activity will turnout successful.

working with the networking among stakeholders who extend government services in the ground. He added that as advocates for peace they stand by the ‘Do No Harm’ principle and help in bridging peace to the people.

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school supplies were distributed to the IP beneficiaries. Medical consultations, distribution of cheque incentives for IP beneficiairies of PCPP, and awarding of Certificate of Land Ownership Award (CLOAs) were also conducted at the same venue.

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157 Butuan school paper advisers undergo enhancement training

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

By: Joy Carol A. Belarmino

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BUTUAN CITY – The Department of Education (DepEd) Butuan City Division conducted a four-day Division Roll-out on the Basics and Advance Courses on Campus Journalism and Digital Media to 157 school paper advisers (SPA) coming from 13 districts of the city at Provincial Capitol Training Center recently.

The training was conducted in response to the provision of Republic Act (RA) No. 7079, known as Campus Journalism Act of 1991 and in support to policy of the basic education program, which aims to orient the SPAs on the latest trend and development in Campus Journalism and in Digital Media; capacitate SPAs in journalistic writing, editing skills, and school paper page designing and lay-outing, and in TV and radio

broadcasting and scriptwriting; and finalize the school’s training plans in journalism.

The activity was hosted by the Butuan City School Paper Advisers Association, Incorporated (BCSPAAI), headed by Angelie C. Alvizo as its president. The said activity is also in preparation of the incoming Division Schools Press Conference. (DepEd Butuan City Division)

Photo Gallery SERBISYO PEACE CARAVAN

Tayo ang Pagbabago / Kapayapaan

Brgy. Poblacion, Santigao, Agusan del Norte 21 October 2016

Smoking and excessive alcoholic drinking a deadly tandem

CARAGA INFOCUS

HEALTH NEWS

It is quite impossible to imagine a party without a generous amount of booze on the table especially on occasions such as birthdays or weddings.

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price to pay or a life to risk.

Excessive alcoholic beverage consumption may lead to being overweight or obese, having nutrient deficiencies, hypertension, erratic blood

Within the Filipino culture, alcoholic glucose control and in severe cases, liver beverage consumption among peers cirrhosis, cardiovascular diseases and and family, locally referred as inuman certain cancers. or toma, is a social norm almost visible in every corner of the streets in the Remember that alcohol becomes barangay. It signifies the Filipino custom fat once digested and broken down of pakikisama or being one through in the body, thus taking too much of social events. alcohol will lead to certain types of lifestyle or non-communicable diseases.

And more often than not, a full blown party is completed with a shot of According to the World Health alcohol in the right hand and a stick of Organization (WHO), the harmful use of cigarette in the other. Not to mention alcohol results in 3.3 million deaths each the sounds of the videoke blasting like year. On the average, every person in there’s no tomorrow, but that’s a totally the world 15 years old or older drinks 6.2 different story. liters of pure alcohol per year.

The combination of smoking and Smoking or tobacco use, on the drinking alcoholic beverage maybe other hand, has been associated with enjoyable but this pleasure comes with a different kinds of cancer such as cancer

What is more alarming is that even those who do not smoke but are exposed to cigarette smoke can also have the diseases of the smoker due to secondhand smoke.

• Decide when to quit and stick to it. It is advisable to have a time frame of when to quit.

• If withdrawal symptoms occur, consult a doctor on how to cope with them. Withdrawal symptoms may include nausea, cold perspiration, trembling and restlessness.

• Drink plenty of water.

• Be physically active

•Avoid going to places that would entice smoking. Throw all cigarettes and cigarette paraphernalia.

It is never wrong to go out and bond with friends or unwind sometimes.

But then, it also not right to compromise health with these fun activities.

The WHO revealed that tobacco kills up to half of its users or around 6 million people each year where more than 5 million are the result of direct tobacco use, while more than 600,000 are the result of non-smokers being exposed to second-hand smoke.

In the Philippines, the National Nutrition Survey (NNS) by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST) in 2013 found that one in every four Filipinos are current smokers So quit smoking and drink and smokers are as young as 10 years moderately if you can’t avoid it. old.

For more information on food

The presence of harmful and nutrition, contact: Dr. Mario substances in tobacco or cigarettes V. Capanzana, Director, Food and alters the normal functions of the body Nutrition Research Institute, Department in supplying enough oxygen in the of Science and Technology, General blood to other body organs.

Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City; Telephone/ Fax Nos: 837-2934 or 8373164; Direct Line:839-1839; DOST Trunk Line: 837-2071-82 local 2296 or 2284; e-mail: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph or at mar_v_c@yahoo.com; FNRI-DOST website: http://www.fnri.dost.gov.ph.

Like our Facebook page at facebook. com/FNRI.DOST or follow our Twitter account at twitter.com/FNRI_DOST. (Jund Rian A. Doringo, FNRI-DOST S&T Media Service/PIA-Caraga)

HEALTH NEWS

For that reason, it is best not to ever try smoking or if the habit is formed, quit smoking. Here are some helpful tips on how to quit:

CARAGA INFOCUS

of the mouth, tongue, throat and lungs as well as chronic bronchitis, emphysema, ischemic heart disease, hypertension, and other diseases.

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CARAGA INFOCUS

MINDANAO NEWS

MinDA signs deal with PCCI to enhance trade in Mindanao

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PASAY CITY – An agreement aimed to encourage investments in Mindanao was signed by the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and industry (PCCI) during the recently concluded 42nd Philippine Business Conference (PBC) held at the Marriott Hotel’s Grand Ballroom here in this city.

Secretary Datu Abul Khayr Alonto, MinDA chair and PCCI President George Barcelon signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which calls for the two

organizations to work together to promote investments and formulate policy agenda that will enhance trade and business in the island-region of Mindanao.

leading towards trade promotion and investment generation will be conducted as well through the signed MOU.

“In carrying out our commitments for Mindanao, we will focus on the conduct of policy dialogues, the development and implementation of trade and investment promotion activities, and the implementation of training, exchange of information and other capacity-building programs,” said Secretary Alonto.

BIMP-EAGA stands for Brunei Darussalam Indonesia Malaysia the

He explained that formulating Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area, the policy agenda for Mindanao, while IMT-GT stands for Indonesia will involve the PCCI local chambers, Malaysia Thailand Growth Triangle. industry and trade associations, and key business stakeholders in the The BIMP-EAGA was launched in island-region to ensure that prevailing 1994 as a key strategy to accelerate concerns affecting the business sector social and economic development of will be thoroughly reviewed and less developed areas in participating discussed. countries. The IMT-GT on the other hand was formed in 1993 with similar

“We will also conduct business goals of promoting trade, investment, matching-related activities with and tourism in less-developed states the PCCI and the Investment and provinces in Sumatra, Indonesia, Promotion Desk of Mindanao’s Peninsular Malaysia, and Southern Local Government Units (LGUs), Thailand. Both sub-regional groups aim particularly in keeping the relevance to harness private sector leadership of the Mindanao Business Conference in initiatives to promote cross(MinBizCon) and the participation of border investments and improve Micro Small and Medium Enterprises connectivity.

(MSMEs) in the overall trade and business development of the island- “MinDA and the PCCI have region,” said Secretary Alonto. been collaborating for so many years now, particularly the advancement

He added that capacity- of policy recommendations for building programs that will facilitate Mindanao through the conduct the exchange of information of the MinBizCon,” said Secretary

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Secretary Alonto, who visited Makassar in Indonesia to participate in the recently concluded 3rd BIMP-EAGA and IMT-GT Trade Expo, Conference, and Business Matching said that one of the aims of the MOU is to push for the active participation of Mindanao in the BIMP-EAGA and other similar sub-regional platforms.

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MinDA is a sub-national government agency mandated to promote, coordinate, and facilitate socioeconomic in Mindanao, while the PCCI is the country’s largest business organization.

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Alonto while adding, “the private sector is a strong partner of MinDA in efforts to modernize the region’s agri-based industries and accelerate development in logistics, power, infrastructure, resource management and tourism.”

economic and social development, being strategically located in the East Asian economic corridor.”

Barcelon added that Mindanao plays a key role in unlocking ASEAN’s potential as the turning point of transforming the Philippines from middle- to high-income through increased trade and investments with its nearest ASEAN neighbors – Brunei, Indonesia and Malaysia.

In the 25th MinBizCon held in August at the Gateway Hotel in Surigao City, Barcelon acknowledged the role of Mindanao in helping the country achieve broad growth across all sectors and said that “Mindanao He commended the islandtoday day is a far-cry from the old region’s economy which grew by 7.4 Mindanao that we know.” percent in 2014 that contributed 20.7 percent to the Philippine economy

He said “all eyes are now on in the same year, with its robust the region as it transformed into an agricultural produce, supplying most economy that is ripe for the picking. It of the world with banana, pineapple, plays a significant role in the country’s and tuna. (MinDA/PIA-Caraga)

Slated on October 19-20, 2016 at the Mayuree Grand Ballroom of the Dusit Thani Manila in Makati City and co-presented with KAS Philippines Office, the GAGF Forum will feature over 30 international experts speaking and sharing first-hand experiences and

programs on autonomy, federalism and governance.

It will highlight 15 country case studies, including Mindanao and Cordillera in the Philippines, Canada, Spain, India, Australia, Northern Ireland

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MANILA - It’s all systems go for Asia Pacific’s first and most comprehensive forum on autonomy, federalism and governance the Institute for Autonomy and Governance (IAG) in partnership with Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS) Philippines will debut this October 2016 in Manila.

NATIONAL NEWS

Manila hosts global forum on federalism

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NATIONAL NEWS CARAGA INFOCUS

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and Scotland, Bougainville, Aceh, will be able to access latest findings Nepal, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, South of researches, projects and Africa, Finland and Kenya. programs on autonomy and governance; learn best practices

Presidential peace adviser on effective autonomy and good Sec. Jesus Dureza and Moro Islamic governance; meet, network Liberation Front (MILF) Chairman Al Haj and do business with prospective Murad Ebrahim will keynote the forum. customers and project partners; enjoy Former chair of the Constitution of first mover advantage on business Kenya Review Commission and world- prospects and opportunities; and renowned constitutionalist Prof. Yash be part of a group of experts for Pal Ghai leads this year’s stellar roster interactive dialogue and consultative of speakers. policymaking that will define the future of concerned regions and

He will be joined by Dr. Markku communities.

Suksi, professor of Public Law at the Åbo Akademi University in Finland; “I strongly urge all relevant Dr. Rekha Saxena, professor with the stakeholders, negotiating panels, Department of Political Science at the policymakers and government University of Delhi in India; Dr. Edward leaders to participate and make your Aspinall, a fellow at the Department voices heard at this first ever global of Political and Social Change, forum on autonomy and governance Research School of Pacific and Asian in Asia Pacific. This is a rare opportunity Studies of the Australian National to learn from the experiences of University in Canberra, Australia; Prof. other countries and see what can Nico Steytler of the Community Law be adopted here in the Philippines Center of the University of the Western and vice versa,” said IAG Executive Cape in South Africa; George R.M. Director and GAGF 2016 Conference Anderson, former president and CEO Chair Atty. Benedicto Bacani. of the Forum of Federations, Canada; and Prof. Sujit Choundry, former dean The Philippines’ hosting of the of the UC Berkeley School of Law in biggest gathering of governance the United States. The complete list and legal luminaries from around of speakers and the latest full hourly the world comes at a time when the programme schedule can be viewed administration of President Rodrigo on the GAGF website (gagf2016.iag. Duterte is mulling over the shift from the org.ph). unitary form of government to a federal one.

Organizers from IAG and KAS expect some 400 international and IAG has also announced it will local attendees in the two-day event. launch during the closing ceremony They said the forum is meticulously of GAGF Forum on October 20 its structured to make sure participants latest publication, a compendium

of papers on federalism and charter change for the Mindanao peace process. Organized by the Institute for Autonomy and Governance in partnership with Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Philippines, the GAGF Forum

2016 is an Australian aid project funded by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). It is also sponsored by the British Embassy and the ARMM Regional Government (OPAPP)

DSWD Secretary Judy M. Taguiwalo assured the public that the Department is keeping close tabs on the status of relief goods prepositioned for the local government units ( LGUs) in the areas that will be affected by Typhoon Lawin.

Sec. Taguiwalo said that in in Region I, the FO has already prepositioned goods in 12 satellite warehouses on strategic locations where nearby local government units

(LGUs) can easily access in case they need augmentation assistance.

“The prepositioned items are in the form of food and non-food-items consisting of ready-to-eat rice tuna, bottled mineral water, mats, blankets, malongs, mosquito nets, water jugs, and used clothing. These were all distributed in the Provinces of La Union, Pangasinan, Ilocos Sur, and Ilocos Norte. The FO also has a standby fund of P2,200,000 that can be used for

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QUEZON CITY - Field Offices (FOs) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) are now replenishing and prepositioning relief supplies in preparation for the landfall of Typhoon Lawin in the Luzon area.

NATIONAL NEWS

DSWD continues to preposition relief for ‘Lawin’; families affected by ‘Karen’ start to return home

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Center (NROC) have a total stockpile and standby funds amounting to P1,285,679,783.54 .

Disaster ops for ‘Karen’

Meanwhile, Sec. Taguiwalo said that FOs in ‘Karen’-affected areas continue to assist LGUs in responding to the needs of displaced families.

She said that to date, a total of P7,961,096 worth of relief assistance has been provided to the affected families.

Of the said amount, the Department extended P4,163,469 while concerned LGUs shared P3,797,627.

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NATIONAL NEWS

emergency purchase of relief supplies,” she said.

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“We are also relieved to report that the total number of evacuation centers is now down to 251 from 600 when the typhoon was at its peak. All evacuation centers in Region II have closed as well as a number in Region V. Some 11,077 families or 54,296 persons remain in evacuation centers set-up

by LGUs in Regions I, III, CALABARZON, and in other parts of Region V, as of 2AM, October 18,” she said.

In the meantime, in Region II, the FO has 10,370 family food packs stored in its warehouse on top of the 12,900 packs and 3,696 pieces of readyto-eat food (RTEF) that have been prepositioned in the municipalities of

She also confirmed that aside Cagayan & Isabela. from continuous coordination with

The replenishment of LGUs for augmentation needs, the prepositioned goods for the production of family food packs is now municipalities of Divilacan and on-going in other regions in time for Maconacon in the province of ‘Lawin’.

Isabela will be delivered this morning She reiterated her call to the at the Sta. Ana port. The Field Office has an available standby funds of public to be always on alert and to work together with their local authorities P4,000,000. for their own safety and for prompt

Overall, the Central Office, FOs, delivery of their needed relief supplies. and the National Resource Operations (DSWD)

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