Caraga InFocus - October 22 - 28, 2016

CONTENTS 22 - 28 October 2016

PROVINCIAL NEWS

REGIONAL NEWS 8 9

CARAT Expo 2016 highlights various activities in 5 days PIA Caraga chief assures wide dissemination of food safety campaign in Caraga

Caraga calls for MASA 11 DILG MASID volunteers

Volume 1, No. 30

PDRRM officer shares 14 AgNor best practices, initiatives on

Surigao Norte holds 24 DTI bookkeeping, accounting

AgNor conducts financial 16 DAR management course AgNor-Butuan City 17 PRC Chapter to hold several

Army start implementing 26 PNP Oplan Undas 2016 in SurSur

DRRM-CCA

activities before year ends

provides relief AgSur bares activities 12 OWWA-Caraga 19 PSWDO assistance program in November

seminar to Surigao Norte coop

has new 27 DAR-PARCCOM officers in SurSur finish TESDA training 28 59 program in SurSur town

eyes GRDP growth in 20 DTI Caraga by 2021

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receives 22 SCCI outstanding chamber award

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Norte solon 23 Surigao pushes for reactivation,

revitalization of BADACs

COVER Food Safe Campaign launched in Caraga HEALTH NEWS launches 30 FNRI-DOST Pinggang Pinoy for different population groups

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MINDANAO NEWS MINDA secretaries hold 32 DTI, bilateral meetings at sidelines of PRRD’s visit to Brunei Darussalam

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NATIONAL NEWS conducts 34 PhilHealth stakeholders’ consultation on revisions to IRR of RA 10606

36 No more ‘endo’ - Bello

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News Briefs The Department of Foreign Affairs informs the public that the digitized Postal Identification Card (Postal ID) will now be accepted as one of the supporting documents for passport application and/or renewal.

As of Aug. 1, 2015, Caraga Region’s population is 2,596,709, it increases to 167,485 compared with the population 2.43 million in 2010. The population of Caraga increased by 1.28 percent annually, on average, during the period 2010-2015 compared to the 2000-2010 rate which is higher at 1.49 percent. Among the five provinces of the region, Agusan del Sur had the biggest population in 2015 with 701,000 while Dinagat Islands had the smallest population with 127,000 thousand. Surigao del Norte was the fastest growing province in the region with an average annual Population Growth Rate (PGR) of 1.76 percent during the period 2010-2015, while Dinagat Islands posted the lowest provincial Population Growth Rate of 0.05 percent.

October 31 and November 1 (All Saints Day) were declared as special non-working days by virtue of Proclamation 1105, Series of 2015.

October is Indigenous Peoples (IP) Month as per Proclamation No. 1906 declaring the month of October of every year as “National Indigenous Peoples Month” based on the constitutional mandate of recognizing & protecting the rights of indigenous cultural communities geared towards national unity & development.

The Persons with Disability Affairs Office & Mangagoy Barangay Council in Bislig City turn over the livelihood support amounting to P13,000.00 to 10 Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) from Manggawong District. (LGU Bislig)

Cover Story

Food Safe Campaign launched in Caraga

CARAGA INFOCUS

COVER STORY

By: Nora C. Lanuza Molde

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he Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Caraga, Winrock International – Philippine Cold Chain Project (Winrock-PCCP) together with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga on Tuesday launched the Food Safe Campaign in Caraga region.

The campaign aims to develop food safety awareness and vigilance among food processing enterprises, food service establishments, schools, households and the general public.

PIA Caraga will assist in the extensive dissemination of information and communication materials for the Food Safe Caraga campaign developed by the CFST and WinrockPCCP, and will closely work with DOST Caraga and Winrock-PCCP in the implementation of activities.

According to DOST Caraga regional director Dominga D. Mallonga, the Caraga CFST will look into the protection and safety of consumers from the foods produced and also to support the micro, small and medium enterprises. The CFST will also educate individuals/producers about food safety from its production-processingmanufacturing-transport until it will reach the consumer’s table, Mallonga added.

“The Food Safe campaign is an ongoing information and education campaign of the Caraga Food Safety Team led by DOST Caraga and implemented in partnership with Winrock-PCCP,” Mallonga said.

It has two major components: a

On the other hand, the Winrock- PCCP shall endeavor to closely work training programme on meat handling

COVER STORY

In the MOU, the DOST Caraga shall represent the Caraga Food Safety Team (CFST) in collaboration with partners in designing information and communication materials for the Food Safe Caraga campaign and will closely work with the PIA Caraga and Winrock-PCCP in the implementation of activities indicated in the project.

with DOST Caraga and PIA Caraga in the implementation of activities, and will provide the necessary funding support to cover cost of information and communication materials in the course of project implementation.

CARAGA INFOCUS

The launching was highlighted with the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)

by Winrock - PCCP chief of party Dan Gudahl, DOST Caraga regional director Dominga D. Mallonga, PIA Caraga regional director Abner M. Caga represented by deputy regional director Fryan E. Abkilan and witnessed

by DOST Secretary Fortunato T. Dela Pena.

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CARAGA INFOCUS

COVER STORY

for meat shop operators and workers, meat vendors and the general public; and public awareness campaign to disseminate information about food safety and improve the food handling practices of the residents of Caraga region.

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agency in the program. “PIA will help to empower communities especially on food safety,” Caga said.

Meanwhile, Sec. Dela Pena also led the turn-over of a luminometer and food safety materials to the qualified meat vendor beneficiaries trained by

During the launching, Sec. dela the DOST on food safety.

Peña acknowledged the important role of PIA Caraga in the campaign.

Mallonga emphasized that one “PIA plays a very important role in this way of ensuring clean and safe food program especially in disseminating the is to use the proper equipment in food food safety tips and proper handling of preparation. The luminometer gives food,” he said. on the spot results to test the amount of microbial agents present in the

Also, Gudahl said that in order to surfaces. have a safe food, its preparation should be handled well. All food should be Under Republic Act 10611 or the clean and safe starting from the farm Food Safety Act of 2013, it strengthens to plate, he added. the food safety regulatory system in the country to protect consumer health

Dir. Caga emphasized that as its and facilitate market access of local partner in the campaign of having a foods and food products.

Food Safe Caraga region, PIA would utilize all channels to effectively The launching of the campaign disseminate accurate information on in the city was participated by meat food safety and how to improve food- vendors, market supervisors, LGU handling practices. Caga assured the representatives, media and partner widest communication support of the agencies. (NCLM/PIA-Caraga)

Photo Gallery Food Safe Caraga Campaign Launching

Department of Science & Technology Caraga Food Safe Caraga Campaign Launching MOU Signing and Turn Over Ceremony

CARAGA INFOCUS

COVER STORY

Big Daddy’s Hotel and Convention Center J.C. Aquino Ave., Butuan City 25 October 2016

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CARAT Expo 2016 highlights various activities in 5 days By: Jennifer P. Gaitano

CARAGA INFOCUS

REGIONAL NEWS

BUTUAN CITY – The Caraga Agricultural Trade and Marketing (CARAT) Exposition set on November 9-13, 2016 is highlighted with various activities at Robinsons Place Atrium, this city.

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Vivian Durano, event coordinator of CARAT expo said that the event is expected to draw 5,000 visitors across the country and the ASEAN. Some 40 exhibitors will also be joining during the five-day exposition.

enumerated Durano.

Durano further disclosed that day 1 (Nov. 9) will feature Lobster Festival; day 2 (Nov. 10) will be the Fruits and Veggies Day; day 3 (Nov. 11) is AquaMarine Day/Sinuglaw Festival;

“There will be products display, day 4 (Nov. 12) is Livestock Day/Lechon trading, business encounters, skills Festival; and day 5 (Nov. 13) is Coco/ competitions, cooking demonstrations, Palay/Tubers Day/Palagsing Festival. contests and live band party, which all Caraganons and tourists will surely This year’s CARAT Expo is anchored enjoy. The contests will focus on eating, on the theme “Enhancing Caraga’s cooking, table setting, pop dance, Agri- Aqua Industry Towards Global singing, bartending, and fruit carving,” Competitiveness.” (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

PIA Caraga chief assures wide dissemination of food safety campaign in Caraga

During the launching of the Food Safe Caraga and signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) held here on Tuesday, PIA Caraga regional director Abner M. Caga, in his message read by deputy regional director Fryan Abkilan, has expressed the agency’s commitment

to support the program. He is thankful that the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Caraga led by its regional director Dominga Mallonga and to Winrock International-Philippine Cold Chain Project (Winrock-PCCP) with chief of party Dan Gudahl for the efforts towards the establishment

CARAGA INFOCUS

BUTUAN CITY – With the aim to disseminate the food safety campaign information down to the grassroots level, the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga region has vowed to utilize all its platforms for the success of the program.

REGIONAL NEWS

By: Nora C. Lanuza Molde

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owned and Controlled Corporations, local government units down to the barangay level.

CARAGA INFOCUS

REGIONAL NEWS

The DEVCOMNET will serve as multipliers of government programs and policies as well as an alert response group for public preparedness on health prevention, sustainable development and peace promotion, Caga said.

For the past years, PIA has been at the forefront of mixing the use of traditional media in the grassroots, and blending the old with the social media, engaging the people for a more interactive communication with its online accounts on Facebook, Twitter and website, the PIA’s short messaging system/SMS or the Textblast, the Advanced Forward Emergency Broadcasting System (AFEEBS), the of the partnership between the DOST, PIA Caraga INFOcus electronic news Winrock, Caraga Food Safety Team, magazine and the One Mindanao mobile app. and the PIA.

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Under the MOU, PIA will assist in the extensive dissemination of information and communication materials for the Food Safe Caraga campaign developed by the Caraga Food Safety Team and the Winrock-PCCP, and to closely work with the DOST Caraga and Winrock-PCCP in the implementation of activities.

With the agency’s platforms, the Food Safe Caraga Campaign’s widest communication support to empower the communities will be achieved and assured, Caga said.

According to Caga, under the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte, PIA is now enhancing the foundation of development communication network (DEVCOMNET) of communication managers and media specialists from the National Government Agencies, Government-

The implementation of the Food Safe Caraga campaign is in accordance of Republic Act 10611 or the Act to Strengthen the Food Safety Regulatory System in the Country to Protect Consumer Health and Facilitate Market Access of Local Foods and Food Products. (NCLM/PIA-Caraga)

Caga also recognized the important role of the media in the successful conduct of the campaign.

DILG Caraga calls for MASA MASID volunteers By: Florian Faith Jr. P. Bayawa

BUTUAN CITY - In time with its regional launching, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region 13 (Caraga) calls for volunteers to be part of the DILG program dubbed as “MASA MASID,” which stands for Mamamayang Ayaw sa Anomalya, Mamamayang Ayaw sa Ilegal na Droga on October 24, 2016 at Balanghai Hotel and Convention Center, this city.

To volunteer, the interested applicant may visit the DILG website: www.dilg.gov.ph or local DILG Office (for queries) and fill-up the Registration Form.

During the regional launching of MASA MASID, DILG Caraga Regional Director Lilibeth A. Famacion, CESO III encouraged the participants to be part of the solution in preventing corruption, illegal drugs and criminality in the community.

“Everyone needs to be aware and vigilant in what is going on the community. MASA MASID is the key so

REGIONAL NEWS

rehabilitation programs; and revival of the spirit of volunteerism by creating a volunteer-friendly atmosphere for organizations that wishes to be partners for change.

CARAGA INFOCUS

The MASA MASID Program is one of the new programs of the national government under President Rodrigo Roa Duterte administration which is lodged in DILG. It is a communitybased program that encourages communities to take a proactive stance in the government’s fight for the prevention of corruption, illegal drugs and criminality. It is to encourage multisectoral partnership to intensify the spirit of volunteerism at the community level.

Pursuant to DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2016-116 dated September 2, 2016 setting forth the implementation of the MASA MASID Program, it provides for four main thrusts: information and education campaign in communities for government programs against corruption, illegal drugs and criminality; creation of a reporting mechanism on illegal drugs-related activities; formulation of community-based

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that we can have our urgent response Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Bureau against corruption, illegal drugs and of Jail Management and Penology criminality,” said Famacion.

(BJMP), local government units (LGUs), Mayor Rodrigo Roa Duterte (MRRD)

The regional launching was – MASA MASID Volunteers led by its concluded with a recital and signing MASA MASID Regional Coordinator – of the MASA MASID Pledge of Esperidion A. Amarillo, students and Commitment led by Dir. Famacion. head of local resource institutes (LRIs) Among those that participated are and national government agencies the Philippine National Police (PNP), (NGAs). (DILG-Caraga)

OWWA-Caraga provides relief assistance program

CARAGA INFOCUS

REGIONAL NEWS

BUTUAN CITY - The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Caraga has extended assistance to some 74 Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) disbursing a total of P1,480,000, as of October 21, 2016.

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These OFWs include those who are still at jobsite in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and those who had already been repatriated in their respective provinces within the region. Among these OFWs are 10 from Surigao del Sur, six from Surigao del Norte, 15 from Agusan del Sur and 27 from Agusan del Norte.

In addition, 16 OFWs outside Caraga had been accommodated for their claims as well. Meanwhile, a total of 108 families had also received their claims disbursing a total of P648,000.

As of writing, the sum of P2,530,000 has been disbursed by OWWA-Caraga for the assistance of OFWs and their respective families.

To those OFWs employed by Saudi construction and maintenance companies as per our listing, beset by severe financial difficulties and who still haven’t received their respective assistance, kindly visit OWWA Regional Welfare Office Caraga located at Nimfa Tiu Bldg. 2, J. Rosales Ave., Butuan City or thru 0939-925-9895 for Smart subscribers and 0917-315-0590 for Globe subscribers. (OWWA-Caraga)

Press Conference

Grand Palace Restaurant, Butuan City 25 October 2016

Press Conference Food Safe Caraga Campaign

Big Daddy Hotel and Convention Center J.C. Aquino Ave., Butuan City 25 October 2016

PROVINCIAL NEWS

CARAT EXPO 2016

Food Safe Caraga Campaign

CARAGA INFOCUS

Photo Gallery

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AgNor PDRRM officer shares best practices, initiatives on DRRM-CCA

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

By: April Rose Anne Y. Sanchez

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BUTUAN CITY Erma R. Suyo, the Provincial DRRM Officer of Agusan del Norte, recently shared the province’s significant accomplishments and milestones on Disaster Risk Reduction and Management and Climate Change Adaptation (DRRM-CCA) during the 8th airing of the monthly radio program of the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Caraga Region dubbed as 4Ks or “Kaalam sa Katalagman, Kaligon sa Katawhan.”

Said program was aired over DXBN and CCA in plans and projects of Radyo ng Bayan Butuan on October their respective communities. It is 18, 2016 from 9:00 to 10:00 A.M. overwhelming how our communities head initiatives to reduce and manage “I am proud to express that one disaster risks,” Suyo said. of the strengths of our province is the strong commitment and participation The province is on the height of our City/Municipal DRRM Councils of promoting the culture of disaster on DRRM and CCA; that even our prevention and preparedness. barangays are mainstreaming DRRM Different capacity-building and

As the province strengthens its Community-Based DRRM, the PDRRMO believes that necessary systems, protocols and procedures shall be established and community action teams shall be created. “We cannot afford to be complacent all the time,” she shared.

“We are also investing in our youths. We have a youth program called YOUNG ADNERT which stands for Youth Operative in Urgency Nurturing Goodwill – Agusan del Norte Emergency Response Team and we have trained National Service Training Program (NSTP) students. These youths are now conducting CBDRRM and school risk assessments. Moreover, teachers are involved in CBDRRM,” the PDRRMO explained.

Further, trainings are complemented by investments in systems and infrastructures at the local level to advance local policies in order to sustain sustainability. The provinces has implemented climate-resilient infrastructure projects amounting to 100 million pesos. Multipurpose halls with complete and gender-sensitive facilities are converted into evacuation centers.

The province of Agusan del Norte won as the First Place Winner in the 2015 Regional Gawad KALASAG Search for Excellence in DRRM and Humanitarian Assistance and was declared as the Second Place Winner in the 2015 National Gawad KALASAG for Best Provincial DRRM Category. It is the Second Place Winner in this year’s Regional Gawad KALASAG for the same category.

Walang Iwanan sa Bayan ni Maria The province makes certain that its programs, projects and activities

Suyo presented one of province’s on Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, best practices dubbed as WIBM or Disaster Preparedness, Disaster “Walang Iwanan sa Bayan ni Maria” Response and Disaster Rehabilitation that aims to secure the oneness of and Recovery are effectively and the province in all ways and aspects. efficiently realized. (OCD-Caraga) The province is the primary source

PROVINCIAL NEWS

of all capacity-building initiatives to ensure full participation and unity of LGUs. The partnership schemes of the province and its LGUs strongly continue through sharing of resources. Likewise, the province tightens its risk transfer mechanisms and land banking. “In Agusan del Norte, no LGU shall be left behind,” Suyo stressed.

CARAGA INFOCUS

planning activities relative to DRRMCCA are continuously and repeatedly conducted by the Agusan del Norte Training Team to empower communities. “Our communities are our first line of defense. Community empowerment is not to overpower LGUs on planning processes and decision making but rather to give them the power and authority to influence their constituents in the effective and efficient implementation of DRRM and CCA,” Suyo added.

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DAR AgNor conducts financial management course

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

By: Gil E. Miranda

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BUTUAN CITY - The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in Agusan del Norte conducted nine rounds of seminars on financial management to nine Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Organizations (ARBOs) from different municipalities in Agusan del Norte.

More than 300 participants consisted of several officers, coop management and operational staff and some members, actively participated and gained with practical knowledge on managing their organizations’ financial activities.

DAR Point Person Luningning Buque-Ycoy said that the resource speakers were from training partner institutions accredited by the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA).

“The seminar aimed to enhance participants’ understanding of the tool on financial analysis in order to create their own systematic financial plan, both short term and long term usage and to determine the status of their operation to come-up decision making,” Ycoy said.

“These series of workshops on basic financial management are in preparation of different social delivery services from DAR that will contribute to the growth of farmer-beneficiaries through their organizations in the province,” added Ycoy.

San Antonio Integrated Farmers Multi-Purpose Cooperative (SAIFMULCO) Manager Bienvenido Osa

was grateful for the continued efforts of the department.

He believed the financial management training initiated by DAR has great benefits to their organization.

Bookkeeper Perlita Madaje of Rosario Samahang Nayon MultiPurpose Cooperative (RSNMPC) said “as a Bookkeeper, the training contributed basic knowledge in handling our financial operation.”

“Kini makahatag og dako nga kaayohan diha sa pag-padagan sa pinansiyal nga hisgutanan sa among kapunonga (This training is a great benefit in the drive for financial matters in our organization),” Madaje added.

(DAR-Agusan del Norte)

PRC AgNor-Butuan City Chapter to hold several activities before year ends

BUTUAN CITY – The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Agusan del NorteButuan City Chapter will be holding several activities before the year ends.

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

By: Jennifer P. Gaitano

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– P300.00; and 3k – P200.00. Registrants will receive singlet, baller ID, and certificate of participation,” he said.

Finisher’s Medal will also be given to 10k winner/champion. “This is a fund-raising activity that will surely

Fiscal Felixberto Guiritan (retired), help the chapter on its humanitarian PRC Agusan del Norte-Butuan City operations,” he added.

Chapter chairman announced that on October 29, 2016, the chapter will Also, chapter administrator be holding the Bingo for A Cause at Teodoro Cairo mentioned that the local Balanghai Hotel, this city. The Bingo chapter has coordinated with the city tickets were already dispatched to government of Cabadbaran, where different partner stakeholders but they plan to hold another a separate others can still purchase at the Bingo Chapter Volunteer Run. “This is our first area on the said date. time to bring the Chapter Volunteer Run outside Butuan City,” he stressed.

Guiritan further cited that the second wave of the Chapter Volunteer Meanwhile, Cairo also revealed Run is set on November 19, 2016. “We that the conduct of a raffle draw in have three categories for this run – 10 the month of December would be the kilometer, 5 kilometer, and 3 kilometer. last activity of the local chapter for this Registration fee for the 10k is P500.00; 5k year. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

In a recently held meeting, the chapter’s Board of Directors and representatives from government agencies and private sector discussed the activities to be conducted starting this month of October.

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PSWDO AgSur bares activities in November By: Jennifer P. Gaitano

“Said celebration is pursuant to Republic Act 10661 or An Act declaring November of Every Year as National Children’s Month,” disclosed Montemor.

Montemor added that on November 21, 2016, the Children’s Day

On November 19-20, 2016, the of Governance /Administration will PSWDO together with the National conducted.

Youth Commission (NYC), Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC), and “We are also preparing several Department of Education (DepEd) will activities in line with the upcoming 18be holding the Children’s Congress day Campaign to End Violence Against here with various activities to be Women (VAW) set on November 25 to participated by partner agencies and December 12, 2016,” Montemor cited. stakeholders.

(JPG/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

CARAGA INFOCUS

According to PSWDO Razel Montemor, they will lead this year’s celebration of National Children’s Month. “We will host one convocation with the children to bond with them together with their parents and teachers,” she said.

PROVINCIAL NEWS

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur – The Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) of this province bared several activities in November 2016, wherein different sectors will be participating.

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DTI eyes GRDP growth in Caraga by 2021

Brielgo Pagaran, DTI Caraga regional director, said the economic development goal is part of the department’s major thrust dubbed as “DTI-Caraga 2021.”

Pagaran said much effort has to be done considering that Caraga Region is not even half-way as of the present in the GRDP with only 91 percent gain against the supposed to be 200 percent target.

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

According to Pagaran, Caraga Region has 31.9 percent poverty incidence while poverty threshold family income is supposed to be P18,000 per month.

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PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur - The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is targeting to increase the Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) in Caraga Region in the next five years.

“We have so many potential areas in order to increase our GRDP. In agriculture alone, we are just harvesting less than 100 cavans of rice per hectare while other regions in Luzon are already harvesting more than 200 cavans per hectare and are targeting to increase their yield to 300 cavans per hectare thru further study and research,” Pagaran said.

In her presentation, DTI Agusan del Sur chief Brenda Corvera said there are priority programs and projects that DTI is pushing. These programs and projects include: Fueling Consumer Empowerment thru Consumer Welfare Activities.

These activities will cover handling consumers complaints, organizing a network of consumer welfare desk officer, organizing local price coordinating councils, timbangan ng bayan, reating an enabling Negosyo Center and Business Permit and Licensing System Streamlining and many others.

assignment, I invited myself in one of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan sessions and presented our programs and projects so that we can align them with the provincial government’s programs and projects.

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

I am very thankful that the committee on trade and industry gladly acknowledged our programs and so

Presently, there are already we can expect full and harmonious 2,745 clients that were assisted by the cooperation,” Corvera said. negosyo center in Talacogon and San Francisco while 687 new and renewal DTI also forged partnership with business licences were processed also the local media in Agusan del Sur for in Talacogon, San Francisco and the better understanding of DTI’s programs provincial hub. and wider information dissemination to the public to realize the increase of the

“When I arrived here in Agusan GRDP by 2021. (PPIO-Agusan del Sur/ del Sur few months ago as my new PIA-Agusan del Sur)

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SCCI receives outstanding chamber award By: Susil D. Ragas

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte The Surigao Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (SCCI) was awarded as the 2016 Most Outstanding Chamber in Mindanao for the Provincial Level Category during the 42nd Philippine Business Conference held recently at Marriott Hotel, Pasay City.

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SCCI President Concepcion “Ciony” Paqueo said the chamber was awarded for its commendable efforts in accelerating business growth in the province of Surigao del Norte and by its leadership and dynamism, strong advocacy programs, increase on its membership base, and effective delivery of services to its members.

“This award will not be possible without the full support of the officers, the board of directors, the members and the secretariat,” Pacque said.

efforts with the provincial government headed by Governor Sol F. Matugas, city government headed by Mayor Ernesto T. Matugas, and with our local and foreign partners in continuing the advocacy for economic development and poverty alleviation. Our heartfelt gratitude and congratulations to all of us,” Paqueo added.

SCCI also received a plaque of appreciation for successfully hosting the 25th Mindanao Business Conference (MinBizCon) last August 24-26, 2016 held at Gateway Hotel, this “Also, with the strong collaborative city. (SDR/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Surigao Norte solon pushes for reactivation, revitalization of BADACs

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte Second district representative Robert Ace Barbers, chairman of the House Committee on Dangerous Drugs, recently pushed for the reactivation and revitalization of the country’s more than 40,000 Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Councils (BADACs) to lead the government’s anti-drug campaign in the grassroots level.

Police Director Benjamin Magalong, PNP deputy chief for operations, in a recent hearing conducted by the Dangerous Drugs Committee, said that the influx of dangerous drugs and other prohibited substances started in year 2000

Barbers said it was only during the administration of President Duterte that all government anti-drug agencies including the military had been marshaled to put a stop in drug use and trafficking.

“When I was governor of Surigao del Norte, I created a local vice squad which raided known drug dens, rounded up drug addicts, and allotted certain amount for rehab. Noon, di pa talamak ang drugs sa amin. We relied solely on our own logistics and manpower,” he said.

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Barbers explained that although the DILG created the provincial, city, municipal and barangay anti-drug councils in December 1998, they are yet to be activated.

but there apparently had been no serious government effort to curb it since then.

CARAGA INFOCUS

“The BADACs are our first line of defense in the grassroots level, and they should spearhead the government’s fight against illegal drugs in their localities,” he said.

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includes Antipolo City Rep. Romeo Acop, Pangasinan Rep. Leopoldo Bataoil, La Union Rep. Pablo Ortega and Negros Oriental Rep. Arnulfo Teves among others, have expressed strong support for the re-activation and revitalization of BADACs.

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

In earlier DILG memorandum circulars, the officers and men of BADACs are supposed to come up with a list of illegal drug users, pushers, financiers or protectors, in their respective LGUs to be submitted to the City or Municipal anti-drug councils which would then refer their data to the

“It is only now, with all the support PNP for appropriate anti-drug action or coming from the President, the PNP operation. and other law enforcement agencies, that the national government has Barbers said the DILG MCs warned embarked on a serious anti-drug the BADAC officials of administrative campaign, particularly with the PNP’s cases for dereliction of duty if they Oplan Tokhang and Double Barrel,” failed to comply with the directive he added. which was anchored on Sec. 51 of RA 9165 or the Dangerous Drugs Act.

The Department of Health and (SDR/2nd district Congressional Office/ the members of the committee that PIA-Surigao del Norte)

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DTI Surigao Norte holds bookkeeping, accounting seminar to Surigao Norte coop

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Surigao del Norte provincial office conducted a Simplified Bookkeeping and Accounting for Non-Accountants to Lower Patag Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Initiated Community Association (LOPARBICA) on Oct. 11, 2016 held in Barangay Lower Patag, Sison, this province.

CARAGA INFOCUS

A total of 22 participants consist of officers, board of directors and some members of the association attended Payaw (palaw) is a native root crop the said activity. similar to gabi or taro abundantly produced in the said locality.

LOPARBICA is registered in the Department of Labor and Employment To date the association produces (DOLE) on October 2014. It is also payaw tart and payaw flour and assisted by the DTI under the Bottoms these are ready for market. For orders, up Budgeting Project. they may contact Gloria R. Bucod, LOPARBICO chairperson at cell number

The BuB project consists of Payaw 0909-6448683. (DTI-Surigao del Norte/ Processing equipment worth P142,500. PIA-Surigao del Norte)

PROVINCIAL NEWS

The activity aims to bring awareness to the micro, small and medium enterprises with the basic knowledge on accounting and bookkeeping as these are important tools in managing their business since the association is still new in the field of business.

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PNP, Army start implementing Oplan Undas 2016 in SurSur By: Nida Grace P. Barcena

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur - The Surigao del Sur police office and Philippine Army have assured security during the observance of All Souls’ and All Saints’ Day in the province next week.

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According to Police Province work is to support the PNP. “We have Office chief PSSupt Romaldo Bayting, already coordinated with the PNP on the security preparations are now in this matter,” Gacal said. place for this annual event.

Newly assumed Tandag City

It was learned that police police chief PCInsp. Rey Sorreda bared personnel are directed to provide that the Provincial Police Office will maximum police visibility, increase augment additional police force during of check points, maintain security the said celebration. in vital installations, economic key points, ensure high state of operational Sorreda also added that the readiness to deter criminal activities implementation of the security plan and thwart any hostile actions that may will continue until the upcoming State be launched by threat groups.

Universities and Colleges Sports and Cultural Competition on November

Meanwhile, 402nd Brigade 5-11, where the Surigao del Sur State Commander Col. Franco Nemesio university is the event host. (PIA-Surigao Gacal revealed that part of their del Sur)

DAR-PARCCOM has new officers in SurSur By: Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) of Surigao del Sur has elected and inducted its new set of officers for Provincial Agrarian Reform

PARCCOM is mandated to provide information on the provisions of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) guidelines issued by the Presidential Agrarian Reform

CARAGA INFOCUS

According to DAR Information Council (PARC) and on the progress of Officer Myra Yu, the officers officially the CARP in the province. took their oath of office held at Shacene Pension House, this city.

The newly-elected officers will serve for three years as provided under

The newly-elected officers who PARC Administrative Order No. 1 Series will represent the different sectors of 1997. (PIA-Surigao del Sur) are: Selvestre Maratas for Farmers’ Organization; Leonardo Evangelista for Agricultural Cooperative; Jim Laurente and Timotheo Orquina, Jr. for Land Owners; Nora Apique and Rebecca Undangan for ARB-Principal Crop; Cesar Bat-ao for Indigenous People; and Radigundo Rivas for Non-Government Organizations.

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Coordinating Committee (PARCCOM).

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59 finish TESDA training program in SurSur town

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

By: Nida Grace P. Barcena

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TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – Some 59 individuals from Carmen town had finished their skills training program under the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

Of the 59 individuals, 25 beneficiaries from Sitio Gacub, Barangay Hinapuyan graduated from Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) training NC-II, 31 individuals received a certificate of Reflexology and Massage training, and three individuals availed the training for Work Scholarship Program.

Pueblas of 36th Infantry Battalion (36IB), Phil. Army, some 25 welding machines were received by the local government unit of Carmen intended for the 25 graduates who finished the SMAW training NC-II. Eight of the 25 graduates are reportedly former rebels.

Pueblas added that the training was initiated by the 36IB in coordination

According to Civil Military with some stakeholders. (NGBT/PIAOperations officer Capt. Al Anthony Surigao del Sur)

Photo Gallery Local Government Code Anniversary

25th Anniversary Celebration of the Local Government Code of 1991 and Regional Launching CCGG & MASA MASID Balanghai Hotel and Convention Center Doongan, Butuan City 24 October 2016

FNRI-DOST launches Pinggang Pinoy for different population groups

CARAGA INFOCUS

HEALTH NEWS

The Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST) launched the Pinggang Pinoy for the different population groups during the 61st Anniversary and Annual Convention of the Nutritionist-Dietitians’ Association of the Philippines (NDAP).

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The launching was held on February 24, 2016 during the NDAP fellowship night at the Royal Garden Hall Convention Center, General Luna Street, Iloilo City.

Pinggang Pinoy is a new and easy-to-understand food guide that uses a familiar food plate model to convey the right food group proportions on a per-meal basis. This will help Filipinos acquire healthy eating habits needed to attain optimum nutrition.

The guide shows the recommended proportion by food group, Go, Grow and Glow on per meal basis. By just looking at the plate, one will know right away that half of the plate represents Glow foods consisting of fruits and vegetables.

One sixth of the plate shows proportion for Grow foods such as meats, eggs, poultry, fish, beans and legumes. One third of the plate is Go foods like rice, corn, bread, oatmeal, bread and rootcrops.

The first Pinggang Pinoy food guide developed by the FNRI-DOST was the Pinggang Pinoy for Filipino adults. Since individual’s energy and nutrient needs vary based on age and sex and level of physical activity, Pinggang Pinoy food guides for the different population and physiologic During the launching, Dr. Milflor groups (children, adolescents, elderly, pregnant mother, and lactating S. Gonzales, Supervising Science Research Specialist of the FNRI-DOST, women) were also developed.

Around 300 sets of Pinggang Pinoy brochures were distributed among the participants. For those who did not receive the Pinggang Pinoybrochures, copies are available at the FNRI-DOST. Write or call Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department of Science and Technology, Gen. Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City, Metro Manila,

Let the Pinggang Pinoy guide you in achieving healthy and balanced meals daily.

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; Telephone/ Fax Nos: 837-2934 or 837-3164; Direct Line:839-1839; DOST Trunk Line: 8372071-82 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. (Ma. Idelia G. Gloriosa, FNRI-DOST S&T Media Service/PIA-Caraga)

HEALTH NEWS

This was followed by unveiling of Pinggang Pinoy for various age groups

by FNRI Director Mario V. Capanzana and NDAP President Adela JamoraboRuiz.

Tel./Fax: 8372934, 8373164; FNRI-DOST website:http//www.fnri@dost.gov.ph, email:mar_v_c@yahoo.com, mvc@ fnri.dost.gov.ph.

CARAGA INFOCUS

served as the emcee-moderator. Ms. Jovina A. Sandoval, Science Research Specialist II of the Nutrition Research Development Group, discussed overview of the Pinggang Pinoy. To thoroughly explain what Pinggang Pinoy is, a short video presentation on the development and technical content of Pinggang Pinoy was shown.

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CARAGA INFOCUS

MINDANAO NEWS

DTI, MINDA secretaries hold bilateral meetings at sidelines of PRRD’s visit to Brunei Darussalam

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MAKATI CITY – The Secretaries of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) held their respective bilateral meetings with Bruneian government ministers at the side-lines of the State Visit of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to Brunei Darussalam on October 16 to 18.

MAKATI CITY – The Secretaries of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) held their respective bilateral meetings with Bruneian government ministers at the side-lines

of the State Visit of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to Brunei Darussalam on October 16 to 18.

MinDA Secretary Datu Abul Khayr D.Alonto met with Pehin Orang Kaya

The following day, Secretary Lopez also had the opportunity to meet with officials from Jollibee Brunei Darussalam in the newly opened Jollibee outlet and drive thru in Kampung Kilanas.

During said meeting, Jollibee officials briefed Secretary Lopez on Jollibee’s operations in Brunei. They also exchanged views on how to further enhance Jollibee’s market share and strengthen the Jollibee brand in Brunei.

MINDANAO NEWS

On October 17, DTI Secretary Ramon M. Lopez met with Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong (Pehin Abu Bakar), Minister of Home Affairs and Chairperson of the Brunei Investment Agency (BIA) at Istana Edinburgh.

Among the items discussed by the two officials included cooperation between the Philippines and Brunei in the energy sector and in the area of halal industry; opportunities in the Philippines’ IT and BPO industries which Brunei could explore; and the economic contribution of the 23,000-strong overseas Filipinos in Brunei.

CARAGA INFOCUS

Pekerma Dewa Dato Seri Setia Lim Jock Seng (Pehin Lim Jock Seng), Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade II, during an informal lunch meeting at Istana Edinburgh on October 16. Topics discussed by the two officials included the historical affinity between the Philippines and Brunei; cooperation in the halal industry and eco-tourism; the peace process in Mindanao; and BIMP-EAGA initiatives.

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PhilHealth conducts stakeholders’ consultation on revisions to IRR of RA 10606

CARAGA INFOCUS

NATIONAL NEWS

PASIG CITY THE Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) recently held a stakeholder’s Public Consultation at its Central Office in Pasig City on the proposed changes in the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act 10606 or the PhilHealth Charter of 2013.

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The proposed revision in the IRR was initiated by the Sub-Committee of the PhilHealth Board of Directors on Appeals on Administrative Cases (CAAC) in coordination with the Legal Sector through the Arbitration Office. The revisions covered Sections 75-188 of the IRR which primarily dealt with the quasi-judicial powers of the Corporation in relation with violations committed by stakeholders consisting of healthcare providers, healthcare professionals and members against the PhilHealth Charter and its IRR, PhilHealth Issuances and other policies relative to the implementation of the

National Health Insurance Program (NHIP).

The proposed revision of the IRR coincided with the recent transfer of the Arbitration Office from the Legal Sector to the Office of the Executive Vice-President and Chief Operating Officer (EVP and COO) to give the latter independence in the objective adjudication of administrative cases against erring healthcare providers and members.

The IRR revision was primarily undertaken to streamline its

part of the proposed revision involved processes and internal procedures aimed at streamlining and delineating the specific roles of concerned Offices within the Corporation in connection with its quasi-judicial powers in factfinding, investigating, prosecuting and adjudicating cases against erring

Present during the public healthcare providers and members. consultation were representatives from the Philippine Medical Association Part of the procedural revisions in (PMA) and the Integrated Midwives the IRR included the thrust on generally Association of the Philippines (IMAP). limiting the conduct of clarificatory The session was also participated in hearings in the adjudication of

by PhilHealth-accredited healthcare administrative cases complemented institutions (HCIs) that included by the shortening of the rendition thePhilippine General Hospital, Jose of the Arbitration Office’s Decision Reyes Memorial Medical Center, from then 120 days to within 60 days Ospital ng Makati, Armed Forces of from receipt of the last pleading. the Philippines Medical Center, Far The proposed revised provisions also Eastern University – Nicanor Reyes directed the posting of the excerpts of Memorial Medical Foundation, Chinese adverse final Decisions against erring General Hospital and Medical Center, healthcare providers and professions Valenzuela Citycare Medical Center, in the PhilHealth corporate website Mayor Juan R. Sanchez Health Center, to properly inform members on the Asia Renal Care Philippines Inc. and status of accreditation of concerned Rizal Provincial Hospital System-Morong healthcare providers and professionals Main. within their jurisdictional areas.

Atty. Alfredo B. Pineda II, PhilHealth Vice President for the Arbitration Office presented the specifics of the proposed IRR revision.

Pineda emphasized that a substantial

Pineda also discussed the proposed revisions involving substantial provisions on the removal of the fraudulent or nonfraudulent classification of offenses in the IRR. Part of the substantial revisions in the proposed IRR also included provisions on unethical recruitment of patients as well as the incorporation of the undertakings of healthcare providers and professionals contained in the Performance Commitment (PC) as part of the offenses against the IRR. The proposed revision further included the amendment and simplification

CARAGA INFOCUS

Some of the members of the CAAC represented by Dr. Francisco Lopez, Dr. Anthony Leachon and Karen Villanueva were similarly present during the public consultation to provide additional insights and answers to clarificatory matters raised during the open forum.

NATIONAL NEWS

administrative processes with the end in view of facilitating and hastening the disposition of administrative cases filed before the Corporation against healthcare providers, healthcare professionals and members for a more efficient implementation of the NHIP.

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of the scale of penalties on violations healthcare professionals before the committed by healthcare providers.

Philippine Regulatory Commission (PRC) or the appropriate Public Prosecutor’s

The substantial revisions in the IRR Office as the case may be. also included the additional function of the Legal Sector in evaluating The proposed revised IRR on the complaints to determine the possible quasi-judicial provisions of the PhilHealth filing of administrative or criminal cases Charter is expected to be finalized and as the circumstances and evidence published for implementation within may warrant against erring HCIs or the last quarter of this year. (PhilHealth)

No more ‘endo’ - Bello

CARAGA INFOCUS

NATIONAL NEWS

MANILA - ”Endo’ is a thing of the past,” Labor and Employment Secretary Silvestre H. Bello III declared recently.

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“This is illegal, this is contrary to law. It’s not only the labor group, but also the management group who have agreed that “endo” will be a thing of the past… the employers and managers are willing to comply with the provisions “We are on track with our of the law…,” Bello said. commitment to the President to reduce ‘endo’ by the end of the year, and its

He said that to ensure that the abolition by 2017,” said Bello. endo practice is stopped, employers will be compelled to strictly comply The labor chief announced earlier with existing laws, citing employment that 16,183 workers were voluntarily laws and the regulations governing regularized by their employers as the contractual employment.

DOLE stepped up efforts to eliminate illegal contractualization practices.

Endo is a scheme that circumvents the law by hiring workers for less than He said the number represents six months to avoid having to regularize about 15 percent of the total number them. of workers who are in illegitimate

CARAGA INFOCUS

NATIONAL NEWS

contracting arrangement. Most of For the second track, Labor these workers are in manufacturing, Laws Compliance Officers (LLCOs) malls, food chains, and hotel and inspected establishments, principals, restaurant industries. and contractors which are practicing ‘endo’ and labor-only contracting

Citing a report from Bureau arrangements. Those found to be of Working Conditions (BWC), Bello engaged in labor-only contracting are said that the DOLE has adopted subjected to mandatory conferences two tracks in eliminating illegitimate to assist them in their compliance with contractualization, including labor-only labor standards. contracting and ‘endo’.

It covered 8,754 establishments/

In the first track, the DOLE principals/contractors and found 209 Regional Offices conducted series violations affecting 12,129 workers and of consultations and meetings to 1,546 engaged in labor-only contracting encourage employers to voluntarily with 34,627 affected workers. regularize workers who are under ‘endo’ and labor-only contracting “It is very clear that there are arrangements. establishments which are violating the

law. If the law will be implemented

About 170 consultations and and there will be strict compliance, I meetings were held attended by don’t see any reason the objective of 11,591 representatives from 8,403 ending “endo” practice by 2017 will establishments/ principals/contractors. not be achieved,” said Bello. (DOLE)

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Photo Gallery Regional Dissemination Forum

2015 Updating of the Nutritional Status of Filipino Children and Other Population Groups Balanghai Hotel and Convention Center, Doongan, Butuan City 24 October 2016

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Surigao del Norte/Dinagat Islands

MA. IDELIA G. GLORIOSA GIL E. MIRANDA APRIL ROSE ANNE Y. SANCHEZ OCD-CARAGA DAR-AGUSAN DEL NORTE PPIO-AGUSAN DEL SUR DTI-SURIGAO DEL NORTE SDR/2ND DISTRICT CONGRESSIONAL OFFICE PHILHEALTH DOLE FNRI-DOST S&T MEDIA SERVICE Business Manager

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ROBESPIERRE C. TRADIO

Regional Office Jose Rosales Avenue, Butuan City E-mail: piacaraga@gmail.com;

pia_caraga@yahoo.com.ph Telephone no. (085) 341-5285; Telefax No.: (085) 341-2370 Facebook: PIA Caraga Updates Twitter: @PIACaraga

Information Centers AGUSAN DEL NORTE Jose Rosales Avenue, Butuan City Telephone no. (085) 815-1991 E-mail: pia.northagusan@gmail.com Facebook: PIA Agusan del Norte Twitter: @PIAAgusanNorte

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

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

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