Caraga InFocus – October 10-16, 2020

Volume IV, No. 42 October 10-16, 2020

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REGIONAL NEWS DILG-13 orients 2,500 new contact tracers Newly appointed PRO-13 chief strengthens ties with Army in Caraga Caraganon designers qualify for OTOP manlilikha designers course DA Caraga promotes ‘buy local, eat local’ PSA conducts October 2020 consumer expectations survey PH, US sign new P10.5-B deal to boost economy US, PH universities forge partnerships anew

PROVINCIAL NEWS AgNor LGUs recognized in this year’s ANGELL Awards Serbisyo Caravan continues in AgNor amidst COVID-19 pandemic Army, BHWs facilitate medical care to 3 pregnant FRs, 30 children Army assists NCIP in reaching out to tribal community Jabonga residents undergo skills training on organic veggie production 2 CNT leaders surrender to Army in Agusan Norte Tired high-ranking CNT member in AgNor abandons movement Youths in Dinagat Islands join in tour operation, management contest Why mechanize: insights from SAAD abacaplanter SKs in AgSur town promote ‘Maki-Brigada’ program Surigao tribes hail slain IP leader as hero Poultry: farmers’ hope on heavy rains in SurSur town IPs want CNTs punished for killing IP leaders in SurSur

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MINDANAO NEWS

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Over 100k hectares in Mindanao planted with high-quality rice seeds

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Zambo cassava growers thrive even amid pandemic

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NATIONAL NEWS

Andanar honors front-liner uncle who died fighting Covid-19 DILG welcomes UNHRC support to PH human rights efforts Reforming pension system will ensure fiscal stability: Go DSWD augments LGUs’ stockpile amid typhoon season PNP personnel to secure nat’l ID registration

COVID-19 NEWS PCOO 2021 budget to focus on communicating recovery from pandemic DOH suggests holding of activities in open spaces amid pandemic PH, China reaffirm ‘continuing vitality’ of ties amid pandemic Dagyaw 2020 responds to Covid-19 concerns US provides P73-M in food aid to Lanao del Sur

CONTENTS

INFOCUS

COVER

Caraga

COVID-19 TESTING LAB IN SURIGAO DEL NOR

By Venus L. Garcia

Per statement from Surigao del Norte Assistant Provincial Administator and Spokesperson Simeon Vicente Catrence, a coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) testing laboratory will soon rise in the province.

Through a collective support, the Taganito HPAL, Taganito Mining Corporation, Cagdianao Mining Corporation and Platinum Group Metals Corporation mining firms have donated a total amount P18 million for the establishment of said molecular lab which will be manned by the Philippine Red Cross.

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TO RISE RTE

Upon approval of the board of the Surigao State College of Technology under a usufruct agreement, the required 2,000-square meter lot was also made available to concretize the plan.

“This molecular lab can process for up to 2,000 swab specimens

per day collected from patients suspicious of COVID-19. All materials are ready and hopefully

by November of this year we could start with the operation,” said Castrence.

He said the medical technologists are currently undergoing a proficiency training in molecular diagnostic techniques. So, in time with the completion of the laboratory construction and as soon as they finished and passed, they

will immediately start delivering their services.

“Amid this crisis, the local government makes all efforts not only to lessen our anguish but to address all issues and concerns of Surigaonons. The LGU is working for you. Gov. Lalo Matugas would also like to convey to everyone that he and the rest of partner stakeholders are really doing everything to contain, if not eradicate, the virus,” said Castence.

(VLG/PIA-Surigao del Norte) October 10-16, 2020 |

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News Briefs The Department of Agriculture Caraga led today the 11th NRTF Culmination & World Food Day 2020 Celebration at Brgy. Lemon, Butuan City with the theme “Increasing Rice Production Towards Farmers’ Prosperity.” xx

An activity dubbed “Creating a Sound Business Environment in the New Normal” is set on October 23, 2020 by the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTFELCAC) Caraga. Said activity aims to provide basic information to the business sector on the enabling factors and deterrents of peace and development that concern them, particularly on the precursors of extortion.

The current COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the critical role hand hygiene plays in disease transmission. This year’s theme reminds us to strictly observe hand hygiene to respond and control the pandemic. Hand hygiene must become everybody’s business.

Dangerous drugs with a total value of P7,114,061.44 are destroyed by the PDEA RO-XIII at the 402nd Infantry Brigade in Brgy. Bancasi, Butuan City.This comprises the 1,044.61 grams of methamphetamine hydrochloride and 89.36 grams of marijuana.

REGIONAL NEWS

DILG-13 ORIENTS 2,500 NEW CONTACT TRACERS

By Venus L. Garcia To intensify the contact tracing efforts in the Caraga Region, more than 2,500 newly hired contact tracers have attended the simultaneous orientation conducted by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) - Caraga in this city and other provinces.

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“If we have a large number of contact tracers, we can also speed up the identification of close contacts,” said director Charissa Guerta of the DILG-Butuan City.

Upon identifying the close contacts of the persons who tested positive of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19),

the contact tracers will then immediately notify them of the necessary isolation or quarantine protocol.

“They will start with their services very soon.

They will sign the contract of service for contact tracers for immediate deployment,” said DILGCaraga regional director

Lilibeth Famacion.

Given the extent of exposure and risk among these contact tracers, Famacion assured the provision of appropriate personal protective equipment.

They will take charge of the conduct of interviews, profiling, and perform an initial public health risk assessment of COVID-19 cases and their close contacts.

“This will be our way of giving service to the government, the people.

We are here to assist in the contact tracing efforts and to fast track the identification of those who are exposed to the virus,” said Haydee Elen, contact tracer.

Raul Cuenca, Jr., also a contact tracer, underscored the essence of ‘Bayanihan’ where everyone has to do something to help avert COVID-19 transmission.

Famacion also reminded the residents to strictly practice the minimum public health standard and to remain in their residences at all times, except when buying essentials and doing vital transactions.

(VLG/PIA-Caraga) October 10-16, 2020 |

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NEWLY APPOINTED PRO-13 CHIEF STRENGTHENS TIES WITH ARMY

By Maj. Francisco P. Garello, Jr. Newly appointed Police Regional Office (PRO) 13 chief PBGen. Romeo Caramat, Jr. reaffirmed the Caraga police force’s ties with the 402nd Infantry “Stingers” Brigade, Philippine Army during his official courtesy visit to the

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Brigade Headquarters on Wednesday, October 7.

The region’s new top cop was accorded with foyer honors by BGen. Maurito Licudine, commander of 402nd Infantry Brigade, and the army brigade’s officers

and enlisted personnel for his first official visit, followed by the signing of the guest book and tree planting. Scribbled on the tree guard is the police brigadier general’s name to signify the brigade’s esteemed partnership

F IN CARAGA with PRO-13.

PBGen. Caramat, Jr., assumed the position on September 17 after former PRO-13 regional director PBGen. Joselito Esquivel’s retirement.

The PRO-13 regional director conveyed his

sincerest gratitude to the brigade, underscoring the enduring partnership between the Philippine National Police (PNP) and Philippine Army in Caraga region. He affirmed the longstanding commitment of the whole PNP force to the Philippine Army as the two organizations pursue its common goal in ending the local communist armed conflict in Caraga region.

In his statement, BGen. Licudine cited the ‘outstanding partnership’ between the police and army forces in the region, which enables them to “complement

its functions and achieve successful joint operations in maintaining the peace and security in the region.”

“Rest assured that the 402nd Brigade is steadfast in supporting the PNP. We have a firm belief that we can thrive successfully if we work together. Thus, the visit of PBGen. Caramat signifies the reaffirmation of the partnership as our organizations both continuously perform our mandate to serve the people and protect the communities,” BGen. Licudine added. (402nd Brigade/DMNR/PIACaraga) October 10-16, 2020 |

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CARAGANON DESIGNERS QUALIFY FOR OTOP MANLILIKHA DESIGNERS COURSE Five emerging designers from Caraga region have qualified to the One Town One Product (OTOP) Manlilikha Designers Course organized through the OTOP Next Gen Modernong Obra, Desinyong Atin (MODA) Project of the Department of Trade and Industry

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(DTI).

OTOP Manlilikha aims to establish future design narratives through the perspectives of young emerging talents in the country.

The program creates an opportunity for the participants to assemble a substantial portfolio to

promote their entry to a career in Product Design and Development.

Gina Bagasbas and Goy Candelario of Agusan del Norte, Stephen Azarcon and Christine Lisama of Surigao del Sur, and Rhea Xina Ariona of Agusan del Sur will undergo

a nine-module online lecture and workshop from September 29 to November 9, 2020.

These topics include design awareness and appreciation, product design and development, upcycling design, fashion accessories and fashion compliments design, packaging and labeling, design material development and exploration, basic furniture design, and visual merchandising.

The program will conclude with a product showcase from 120 participants in the entire country.

“We are glad that we have this opportunity to assist emerging local designers in the region in coming up with their own portfolios and eventually establish their own design studios,” DTI Caraga OIC Regional Director Gay A. Tidalgo.

Tidalgo added that the program will make

the participants a part of the pool of designers that the Department will be working within its product development sessions.

“The OTOP Manlilikha is a platform that helps us, young designers, to be the best version of ourselves. It allowed us to explore discovered the rich cultural heritage of our country,” said Stephen Azarcon.

(DTI-Caraga/ PIA-Caraga)

DA CARAGA PROMOTES ‘BUY LOCAL, EAT LOCAL’ The national government, through the Department of Agriculture, together with its concerned attached agencies and bureaus had extended its all-out support to farmers and fishers nationwide, from planting to harvesting and marketing.

Provision of farm inputs such as seeds and fertilizers, pre and post-harvest facilities, technical assistance, equitable and affordable

financial support, and marketing assistance was given for free to help the valued farmers to become prosperous and resilient partners in development.

DA Caraga continues to support the farmers and encourages everyone to patronize and promote the consumption of locally grown rice to help raise the plight of the farmers.

Aside from helping the local farmers and their families, buying local rice will also help the farming community and the economy.

Per monitoring conducted by the Grains Monitoring Team (GMT), as of September 2020, most of the rice being sold in the market is locally produced and less of imported rice. (DARFO XIII, RAFIS) October 10-16, 2020 |

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PSA CONDUCTS OCTOBER 2020 CONSUMER EXPECTATIONS SURVEY

The October 2020 Consumer Expectation Survey (CES) has already commenced since October 1 up to 13, 2020.

The CES is a nationwide quarterly householdbased survey on the consumers’ assessment of their family income, financial situation, and the economic condition of the country.

It aims to provide a quick and regular assessment of the financial condition of consumers as well as the economic condition of the country at present and in the near future from the consumers’ own viewpoints; generate forecasts in the direction of the country’s economic activity based on consumers’ outlook in the current quarter, next

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quarter and the next 12 months; provide quick and regular assessment of consumers’ confidence in terms of their income and expenditures as well as their outlook on key economic indicators closely monitored by the BSP such as inflation, exchange rate and interest rates; provide quick and regular assessment of the saving condition of consumers and outstanding debt situation of the household head, their spouse/ partner, their children and other family members at present.

This is administered on a sample basis at the household level drawn through a stratified multistage random sampling.

Agusan del Norte and Surigao del Norte are

the provinces covered for this survey round. It is a joint undertaking between the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). The PSA’s responsibility is to undertake the data collection using Computer-Aided Data Collection System (CADaCS) while the generation of tables and analysis of the results for the BSP.

All information collected by the hired Statistical Researchers from the sample households shall be kept strictly confidential and shall not be used for purposes of taxation, investigation, or regulation as provided under Article 55 of RA 10625. (PSA Caraga/PIA Caraga)

PH, US SIGN NEW P10.5-B DEAL TO BOOST ECONOMY The United States, through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and the Department of Finance (DOF) signed a new five-year bilateral assistance agreement valued at more than P10.5 billion ($213 million) to boost the country’s economic development and growth.

This agreement enables USAID and the Philippines to deepen their commitment to

accelerate inclusive, broad-based economic growth through policies that increase investment and trade throughout the Philippines.

New programs and activities will promote inclusive, market-driven growth; improve the business environment; expand economic opportunities through private sector-led innovation for medium and small businesses; and increase information

and communications technology access for the digital economy that benefits both producers and consumers.

Activities also include strengthening local civil society organizations to advance locally-led programming and policy-making in the Philippines and facilitating coalitions and partnerships between government and other stakeholders toward data-driven decisionOctober 10-16, 2020 |

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making.

Also, USAID will continue to support Philippine government objectives by improving public sector transparency and accountability; advancing the rule of law and the justice system; and boosting local governments’ responsiveness to Filipinos’ needs.

“This new USAID and Department of Finance bilateral agreement will expand our support to help the Philippines achieve long-term, private sector-led economic growth and strengthen economic governance.

These programs will create jobs and help ensure a more inclusive, broad-based economic development,” said USAID Mission Director Lawrence Hardy II.

This bilateral agreement with the DOF is one of the four new five-year USAID-Government of Philippines Development Assistance Agreements launching in 2020, with an anticipated total value of P32.7 billion ($675 million) over five years.

These new agreements include:

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Department of Health: To improve underserved Filipinos’ health by strengthening health systems while improving the quality of health services, especially in treating tuberculosis, providing access to those who seek family planning services, and communitybased drug dependence treatment;

National Economic Development Authority: To protect ecosystems by promoting sustainable use of natural resources, enhance energy security, and build capacity to mitigate risks and respond to natural disasters; and

Department of

Education: To improve early grade reading, expand science and mathematics curricula, and increase out-ofschool youths’ access to education, professional and technical skills development that will lead to new job opportunities, and strengthen education governance.

Over the past 20 years, the United States has provided nearly P228.8 billion ($4.5 billion) in total assistance to advance the country’s development goals.

(United States Embassy in the Philippines/PIACaraga)

US, PH UNIVERSITIES FORGE PARTNERSHIPS ANEW The representatives from Philippines and United States (U.S.) universities met for a virtual partnerships fair hosted

by EducationUSA and the Commission on Higher Education International Affairs Staff (CHED-IAS).

At the event, university presidents and senior officials from 68 Philippine schools and 45 U.S. institutions heard from the U.S. Embassy and CHED on the importance of creating and expanding partnerships that sustain international educational exchange.

“There is no greater way to strengthen the ties between two countries than through expanding educational linkages, and creating these enduring ties between our countries is as important as ever,“ said U.S. Embassy Cultural Affairs Officer Matt Keener as he welcomed the participants after Atty. Lily Freida M. Milla, director of CHED-IAS, gave her opening remarks.

The U.S. universities also hosted individual

breakout rooms to meet with Philippine universities interested in exploring new partnership opportunities, including student exchanges, visiting scholars, collaborative research programs, and lecture series.

The virtual fair was the sixth event under the “Pathways to Opportunity: EdUSACHED Speaker Series on Internationalization” meant to build the international capacity of Philippine universities and expand linkages between U.S. and Philippine institutions.

The speaker series is also one of the primary outputs of the U.S.-Philippine Joint Statement on Higher Education Cooperation signed during the 2019 U.S.-Philippine Bilateral Strategic Dialogue.

Along with promoting internationalization in higher education, Education USA provides free advising services to prospective international

students in more than 170 countries and offers students resources and tools to help navigate the five steps to U.S. study: researching schools, identifying financial aid opportunities, completing applications, obtaining a student visa, and preparing for departure.

There are more than 4,700 accredited higher education institutions in the United States, and an EducationUSA adviser can help students narrow their options, define their priorities, and plan their college careers.

EducationUSA does not offer scholarships but can assist students in identifying scholarship and financial assistance opportunities.

You can find more information about EducationUSA on Facebook at www. facebook.com/ educationusa.philippines and on Twitter at @ EducationUSA_PH. (Unites States Embassy in the Philippines/PIA-Caraga) October 10-16, 2020 |

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

AGNOR LGUS RECOGNIZED IN THIS YEAR’S ANGELL AWARDS

By Jennifer P. Gaitano Amid the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the recognition of local government units in the province of Agusan del Norte was held recently dubbed as the Accelerating New Dimensions on Good Governance and Excellence in Local Leadership (ANGELL) Awards.

The ANGELL Awards was aimed to recognize the exemplary performance of the LGUs, institutions, barangays, and employees who continue to deliver their services to the constituents

despite the risks brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), the ANGELL Awards also served as an inspiration to the LGUs for them to excel and continue to provide quality programs and services to the public.

Agusan del Norte second district Representative Maria Angelica Rosedell Amante-Matba highlighted that those who work harder are worth to be recognized. The provincial government October 10-16, 2020 |

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acknowledged the LGUs that continue to provide quality programs and services to the public even during the crisis.

“All our good practices may be replicated by other agencies and LGUs. The barangays are very important, in fact, they are the backbone of our governance. Good governance will not stop even during a pandemic,” said Matba.

Being a consistent awardee, Mayor Jovette Calo of Carmen, Agusan del Norte took this as a challenge and vowed to enhance their performance in public service.

“We have more to do for our municipality. We are really working

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hard and this COVID-19 is a test of our leadership. People would see how serious we are in providing public service during crisis such as this,” Calo shared.

Other programs in the province that were recognized included the disaster-resilient LGUs, best performing anti-drug abuse councils, barangay nutrition scholars, most persons with disability (PWD)-friendly LGUs, and ecological solid waste management, among others.

The ANGELL Awards is now in its 6th year and is expected to continue to recognize the performing LGUs in the province. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

SERBISYO CARAVAN CONTINUES IN AGNOR AMIDST COVID-19 PANDEMIC

By Capt. Miguel O. Borromeo, Jr. The troops of the 29th Infantry (Matatag Fighters) Battalion (29th IB), Philippine Army in collaboration with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Jabonga headed

by Mayor Napoleon M. Montero, together with the Municipal Local Government Operations

Officer (MLGOO), and various partner agencies held a one-day ‘Serbisyo Caravan’ in Brgy.

Bangonay, Jabonga, Agusan del Norte on September 18, 2020.

The one-day ‘Serbisyo Caravan’ is a convergence of stakeholders supporting

DILG’s Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) Immersion. This is in line with Pres. Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s Executive Order (EO) 70 which institutionalizes the Whole-of-the-Nation approach to End Local Communist Armed October 10-16, 2020 |

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Conflict (ELCAC) by delivering basic services to Conflict-Affected Areas (ConAAs) and Geographically Isolated Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs). A total of 899 beneficiaries received basic services and goods from the different line government agencies.

These included prenatal consultation, medical check-up, tooth extraction and free tuli (circumcision) done by the Municipal Health Office and 29IB; free haircut rendered by the Jabonga Municipal Police Station and 29IB; various seeds of fruit

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trees distributed by the Municipal Agriculture Office; food packs and hygiene kits provided by the Municipal Social Welfare Development Office (MSWDO) who also provided psycho-social support counselling; and legal assistance from the Public Attorney’s Office.

In his statement, Lt. Col. Isagani O. Criste, Commanding Officer of 29IB, said that this time of the year is crucial to the Filipinos since Christmas is approaching. “During this time, we are accustomed to helping our fellow countrymen, but because of this pandemic, some

of us became hesitant and complacent in doing what we used to.

This pandemic outbreak is a challenge for us to extend our hospitality to those who are in need through the ‘bayanihan’ spirit,” he said.

“As fellow frontliners, we are committed to giving our best in serving and performing our duties. We urge each one of you to also help and reach out to those who are in need because one single act of kindness can change a life,” Lt. Col. Criste added. (CMO Officer, 29IB, 4ID, PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)

ARMY, BHWS FACILITATE MEDICAL CARE TO 3 PREGNANT FRS, 30 CHILDREN By 1Lt. Roel T. Maglalang

The 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion (23IB), Philippine Army facilitated the provision of medical care and assistance to three pregnant former rebels (FRs) and 30 children of former Communist New People’s Army Terrorists (CNTs) through the medical services activity held at the battalion headquarters at the Jamboree Site, Purok 6, Barangay Alubihid, Buenavista on October 2, 2020.

The medical activity, which included free deworming, immunization and pre-natal checkup was conducted in partnership with the members of Barangay Health Workers (BHWs)

of Alubihid headed by Jasmine Millagracia, the barangay nurse. The success of the activity

was also made possible through the collaboration of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the local government unit (LGU) of Buenavista who are part of the implementation of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) of the government.

The said health activity is among the regular programs being done by the 23rd IB to monitor the health situation of the FRs, including their children at their halfway house called “Happy Home” inside the battalion headquarters.

It is also aimed to protect the FRs and their families from the threats of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Alias “Jannah,” a pregnant FR was among the beneficiaries of the medical activity who thanked the Army and the government for providing them and their children the much-needed health interventions.

She also added in her testimony that the October 10-16, 2020 |

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proper care she received from the soldiers since she surrendered will help her prepare to reintegrate back to her family and community.

Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, the commander of 23rd IB expressed his full support to the activity and thanked the partner agencies and the LGU concerned for the support they extended to the former CNT combatants and their children.

He also condemned the CNTs for the continuing act of injustice that they do to the families and children of their combatants who, for years, were denied of the access to the health services of the government.

“When you

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returned to the fold of the law, among the primary services that the government has provided you is health care. The Army, the line agencies, and the LGU want you to be in good health, especially your children,” Paulo said.

He also emphasized that the provision of regular health services will also ensure the physical growth and development of the children of the FRs who are considered as the future leaders of Agusan del Norte, Caraga Region and in the whole country.

“These children are our future leaders.

We condemn the CNTs for denying them the right to access to health services. We are aware

that here in Agusan del Norte and the rest of the region, hundreds of children, whose parents are still enthralled by the false ideology and claims of the CNTs are suffering from malnutrition and other life-threatening ailments,” Paulo said.

He also urged the remaining CNT members in Agusan del Norte to make one and concrete decisions to abandon the communist movement and go back to the government.

He also pointed out that the government has been giving favorable treatment to former rebels who wish to change their lives and face a renewed future. (CMO Officer, 23IB, 4ID, PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)

ARMY ASSISTS NCIP IN REACHING OUT TO TRIBAL COMMUNITY

By Capt. Joash U. Pramis

The 901st Infantry (Fight’Em) Brigade, Philippine Army through the 29th Infantry (Matatag) Battalion (29IB) assisted the National Commission of Indigenous People (NCIP) in the conduct

of inter-agency visit to the Mamanwa tribe in Sitio Zapanta, Barangay Bangayan, Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte, Tuesday, October 6.

The said activity was attended by Secretary Allen Capuyan,

Chairman of NCIP and at the same time the Executive Director of National Task Force in Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTFELCAC).

The visit was initiated to gain first-

October 10-16, 2020 |

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hand information about the pressing issues and concern of the tribal communities within CADT 134 specifically their problems on ancestral domain management, livelihood and food security programs, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic health response, and human rights violations being perpetrated by the communist NPA terrorists.

Present during the said event were Kitcharao Mayor Aristotle E. Montante, 901st Brigade Commander Col. George L. Banzon, PNP Agusan del Norte Provincial Director P/Col Martin M Gamba, 29IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Isagani O Criste, and representatives

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from Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Agrarian Reform, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Commission on Human Rights, Department of Education and Department of the Interior and Local Government.

In his message, Secretary Capuyan said that it was the 121st tribal community to be visited by NCIP in their 65 days continuous travel in Mindanao. He stated that the visit aims to show to the Indigenous People (IP) that the government is present in their community, specifically, they aim to create a venue for other agencies to know the actual situation of the IP

in their respective tribal communities. He also added that the NCIP as the main agency that caters IP concern, they want to deepen the understanding of IP about their rights as stated in the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act or IPRA Law which aims to “Recognize, Protect and Promote the Rights of Indigenous Cultural Communities/Indigenous People.�

He urged the Mamanwa community to be united and act as one so that they will have a formidable foundation in facing the challenges and resilient against the threats and exploitation of interest group. In addition, he also encouraged the IP

to support the ‘whole of nation’ approach of the government in its fight against insurgency. He explained to the tribal community how the communist terrorist group exploits the vulnerabilities of IP for their communist agenda. He said that through the NTF ELCAC, the government is converging the efforts of different agencies to effectively address the issues and concerns, particularly, the prevailing conditions of IP communities that are susceptible to CTG exploitation.

On the other hand, he also encouraged the tribal leaders and its members to be prudent and productive in the utilization of ancestral

domains so that they can contribute to the efforts of the local and national governments in addressing the ill effects of global pandemic.

Meanwhile, Col. Banzon, lauded the efforts of the NCIP and other agencies for reaching out to the tribal communities in the far-flung areas.

He said that the event was very timely because concerned agencies will have the first-hand knowledge about the interventions needed for the tribal community.

“Zapanta Valley was known to many as the hotbed for insurgency.

For years, this place was associated with war and violence. This is the right time for us to make this place worth living for our

Mamanwa brothers and sisters,” he said.

He also gave assurance that the 901st Brigade will continue to support to the programs of NCIP and NTF ELCAC so that IP communities will be strengthened and the fruition of peace efforts will also be enjoyed by every IP member.

As the program ends, the tribal leaders expressed their heartfelt thanks for giving importance to their community. They said that the significant event will bring new hope to their people who have been deprived of a peaceful and progressive community.

(CMO Officer, 901IB/PIA Agusan del Norte)

October 10-16, 2020 |

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JABONGA RESIDENTS UNDERG SKILLS TRAINING ON ORGANIC PRODUCTION

By Robert E. Roperos

After the successful conduct of training on organic vegetable production in the municipality of RTR in Agusan del Norte, residents of Brgy.

Bangonay in Jabonga, Agusan del Norte were

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also given the same training held recently.

According to Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)-Agusan del Norte Provincial Director Rey M. Cueva, this is still in line with one

of the mandates of TESDA particularly on organic agriculture production.

Like the training conducted in RTR, the primary aim of the training is to provide food security to households which is also in line with

GO C VEGGIE

the residents in Brgy.

Tagbongabong… They will learn how to plant organic vegetables right at their own backyard and later on, the community will establish a communal garden…

They themselves will harvest the products,” Cueva added.

During the short program conducted before the training, residents were able to receive 90 pcs. pots, 35

sacks of vermicompost fertilizer, chicken dung, 38 seedlings trays, 38 bolos, 38 sweat shirts and assorted seeds, among others.

Brgy.

Bangonay is one of the priority barangays identified by the local government unit of Agusan del Norte to be given interventions through skills and livelihood trainings.

(TESDA Agusan del Norte/ PIA Agusan del Norte)

the directives of TESDA Sec. Isidro S. Lapeña.

Dir. Cueva added residents of Brgy.

Bangonay will also learn how to produce organic vegetable by means of backyard gardening.

“This is the same with October 10-16, 2020 |

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2 CNT LEADERS SURRENDER TO ARMY IN AGUSAN NORTE By 1Lt. Roel T. Maglalang Two dismayed members of the Communist New People’s Army Terrorist (CNT) group who previously held the positions of team leaders of the movement voluntarily surrendered recently to the troopers of 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion (23IB), Philippine Army in separate occasions at the battalion’s headquarters in Jamboree Site, Purok 6, Barangay Alubihid, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.

The two disgruntled

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CNT leaders were identified as alias FREDIE/ ERWEN and JAY-R/ BADOY/BEBS. Alias FREDIE/ERWEN, 39, a team leader of Squad Dos, Sentro de Grabidad (SDG) CAOCAO, Guerrilla Front (GF) 4A of the North Central Mindanao Committee (NCMRC) and a resident of Purok Lumbia, Barangay Poblacion, Carmen, Agusan del Norte while alias JAY-R/BADOY/ BEBS, 24, is also the team leader of Squad Dos, SDG CAOCAO, GF-4A,

NCMRC who is a resident of Purok 8, Barangay Lower Olave, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.

Alias FREDIE/ERWEN turned over to the 23rd IB one MK-2 fragmentation hand grenade.

Alias FREDIE/ERWEN narrated the difficult experiences he had while inside the movement that pushed him to abandon the terrorist group.

Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, the Acting Commander of 23IB, said the battalion is always open to welcome and

help every member of the CNT group who wishes to live normally and peacefully.

“More CNT members are now coming back to the folds of the government because they never understood the kind of life they had inside the said movement,” Paulo said.

He also expressed gladness to the decision made by the two CNT team leaders, saying that the armed movement will never help them but instead, pull them down to miserable lives.

“With a strong belief,

they joined the armed group believing that they will be given better lives but in contrast, they were only being enslaved by their leaders and they are forced to follow orders without having any repay to their prostration,” Paulo said.

He added that inside the 51 years of CNT existence, the Filipino people have not seen a single member of the group who testified that they now live a luxurious and comfortable life after joining the communist movement.(CMO Officer, 23IB, 4ID, PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)

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TIRED HIGH-RANKING CNT MEMBER IN AGNOR ABANDONS MOVEMENT By 1Lt. Roel T. Maglalang After years of serving the group which he thought would give him and his family a better life, a highranking member of the Communist New People’s Army Terrorist (CNT) finally made up his mind and called off his association with the communist movement and returned to the folds of the law.

Alias Dansoy/Kevin,

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40, the Political Instructor (PI) of Sentro de Grabidad (SDG) CAOCAO, Guerilla Front (GF) 4A of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) of the CNT surrendered to the troopers of 23rd Infantry “Masigasig” Battalion (23IB) recently at the battalion’s headquarters in Jamboree Site, Purok

6, Barangay Alubihid, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte. He also handed over to the Army during his surrender three highpowered firearms and assorted ammunition.

Alias Dansoy/Kevin is a resident of Km. 14, Sitio Hinandayan, Barangay Camagong, Nasipit, Agusan del Norte.

Lt. Col. Julius Cesar

C. Paulo, the commander of 23rd IB personally welcomed Alias Dansoy/ Kevin and received the high-powered firearms and ammunition he surrendered, to include one M16 Rifle with an attached grenade launcher, 40mm M203, one M4 Rifle and one Carbine Rifle which is all serviceable.

During the interview, Alias Dansoy/Kevin said he was recruited and joined the CNT movement because of their propaganda and promises. He was made to believe by the CNT leaders that abundant life will be given to him and his family. After five long years with the movement, he realized that the promises made to him were false and deceptive. During his stay in the CNT movement, he also made some realizations, the biggest of which is the fact that the armed revolution the communist movement espouses is not designed to liberate the people, especially the poor, but to terrorize and press them more to hunger and poverty. He also measured, after years of fighting the government,

that the CNT movement will not win as hatred and detestation of the people, especially those who fell in their terroristic activities, are now growing.

Dansoy/Kevin also testified that infighting among the CNT leaders and within the members also start to divide the movement. With the pandemic that made the government impose quarantine protocols coupled with the surrender of mass supporters, hardships also struck the movement due to the scarcity of food and other basic needs.

Lt. Col. Paulo assured the former Political Instructor of GF-4A that the government will provide help to his family through the EnhancedComprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

“The surrender of this high-ranking CNT member is a manifestation that their weakened group is slowly attenuating. Aside from that, they can no longer move from place to place because our troops are visible anywhere.

We have deployed our joint Community Support Program Teams of the

army and Community Action Teams of the PNP in vulnerable areas and we are also relentlessly conducting our focused military operations to clear the areas that were commonly known as CNT lairs. Clearly, these CNTs have nowhere to hide now, and they will surely suffer from great hunger due to less access to food supplies. As you can see, Alias Dansoy also starved even though he was ranked higher than his comrades, and his family whom he left behind also suffered because the CNT does not regularly provide food to them,” Paulo said.

He also reiterated his call to the remaining CNT members to lay down their arms and go back to their family and to the government.

“Real victory will only be felt once you leave the armed group. They will never help nor value you. Our government is waiting for your return and is always willing to help you to change your lives in order for you and your family to have a brighter future,” Paulo said. (CMO Officer, 23IB, 4ID, PA/PIA Agusan del Norte) October 10-16, 2020 |

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YOUTHS IN DINAGAT ISLANDS JOIN IN TOUR OPERATION, MANAGEMENT CONTEST

By Venus L. Garcia As part of the festivities during the celebration of the 14th Charter Day of Dinagat Islands, the youth leaders participated in one of a kind tour operation and management contest.

“This is the first-ever competition done for the making of tour packages.

If we learn to understand

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our special connection with the environment, we will do our best to protect and preserve it especially when we do tourism.

The exploitation of the environment happens when we human beings treat ourselves separate from it,” said regional director Mary Jean Camarin of the

Department of Tourism (DOT) – Caraga.

The competition aims to promote the concept of conservation in Dinagat Islands’ brand of tourism by involving the youth as the future leaders of the province.

Dinagat Islands bears the tagline “Biyahe sa Dinagat Islands, Biyahe

sa Kalikasang Buhay” which seeks to boost tourism and its abundant natural resources that made it known as the mystical and rising paradise in the Caraga region.

“Here and now, in the paradise we know as the province of Dinagat Islands, we are giving birth to something that will breathe new life to our island ecosystem.

Community conservation tourism! And this kind of tourism entails not just having tour guides who will tell us where to go.

We will develop tour guides, our own people,

who will fulfill what truly a tour guide means – one who knows the essence of conservation tourism, creating communities that are conscious of the nature surrounding them,” emphasized Dinagat Islands Gov. Arlene “Kaka” Bag-ao.

The solon further pushed for measures that advocate conservation. She also wants to create a kind of tourism that highlights conservation and guides the communities and visitors. This, she means learning while exploring, understanding the nature while swimming or island

hopping.

“I am certain that our partners in the region will also act as our guide as they support us with this endeavor.

We have to look at conservation as a form of activism, as a way to fight against capitalist greed that leaves the marginalized hungry and impoverished,” said Gov. Bag-ao.

The team Cagdianao was awarded first place for being the Best in Itinerary and Package Development and Best in Tour Package Implementation.

Team Loreto as the secondplace winner for Best in Tour Package Promotions and Marketing. Team Tubajon also garnered the third-place award while Dinagat was adjudged as the fourthplace winner.

The SK participants also went through several skills development workshops on tourism management, tour packaging, and tour guiding.

“We not only limit in training the youths. We want them to become accredited tour guides,” said Camarin. (VLG/PIASurigao del Norte) October 10-16, 2020 |

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WHY MECHANIZE: INSIGHTS FROM SAAD ABACA-PLANTER

By Mark Angelo Pineda Using mechanized equipment hastens the stripping of abaca stacks and improves the quality and market price of abaca fibers. Take it from Gil Gabales, abacaplanter for 20 years, who switched from wide stripping (laguras) to mechanized stripping for almost a year now.

Manong Gil, 43 years old, a native of Talacogon, Agusan del Sur, is a beneficiary of the Special Area for

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Agricultural Development (SAAD) Program of the Department of Agriculture (DA) Caraga.

The abaca production project (worth P1.9M) included four abaca stripping machines shared among 41 members of the Culiram SAAD Abaca Farmers Association (CUSAFA) in Talacogon, Agusan del Sur.

“There is a huge difference in output and income between manual and mechanized

stripping,” expressed Gil. “With the machines, an individual can strip around 30 to 40 kilos of abaca fibers, which is thrice the reach of manual labor in a day.

Plus, machine-stripped fiber is priced high in the market, almost double the price of manually processed fibers,” said Gil.

Manong Gil had an existing abaca plantation before the SAAD Program arrived in Barangay

Culiram. While waiting for the SAAD-funded abaca plantlets to mature by 2021, he and members of CuSAFA have been utilizing the stripping machines to boost their production.

According to Manong Gil, about 1,111 abaca plants can fit in one hectare of land.

From the said piece of land given one cropping season, he harvests an estimate of 925 kilos of abaca fibers.

With high-quality abaca fibers, Manong Gil’s profit per harvest runs around Php 70,000/ hectare, which is 35 percent more than manual labor. Under the same condition, his annual profit will amount to P280,000/hectare because abaca trunks replenish themselves after 3-4 months.

The income potential of abaca fibers

Abaca, also known as Manila hemp (Musa textilis Née), is native to the Philippines.

According to the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA), abaca fibers are the strongest among natural fibers making

them more marketable over synthetic fibers.

With abaca fibers worldwide consumption predicted to increase over the years and the Philippines being the top exporter, the potential for Filipino farmers to capitalize on the commodity has become more pressing. But to maximize this potential, mechanized stripping should complement their production.

As of writing, in Agusan del Sur, machinestripped abaca fibers are priced at P92/kilo while hand-stripped produce is at P57/kilo. The reason behind the 35-peso difference is the former’s produce being white ivory while the latter is dark brown.

Farm modernization is among DA’s eight paradigms to level up agriculture. It ensures that agricultural production is sustainable and efficient such that farmers can move from subsistence farming to marketoriented farming.

When asked what advice Manong Gil would give to abaca farmers alike, he said, “If you have access to stripping machines, try as

much, as possible, to use them. In our community, we encourage our fellow farmers, especially non-members, to borrow our stripping machines provided they spend for the fuel and maintenance. All in all, this will increase their profit.”

As has been emphasized by the Department of Agriculture, farm modernization plays a crucial role in the pursuit of a food-secure Philippines.

The case of CuSAFA, with Manong Gil leading the group, shows that local farmers are capable of putting their best foot forward if provided with adequate resources and knowledge.

“Abaca is a promising commodity. But for us farmers to succeed, we should not be afraid to try new ways even if it requires putting away our long-established ways for better-yielding machines. This is the challenge that we have to face. Nonetheless, we have to mechanize our production to keep up in the market,” Manong Gil added. (DA-SAAD13/PIAAgusan del Sur) October 10-16, 2020 |

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SKs IN AGSUR TOWN PROMOTE ‘MAKI-BRIGADA’ PROGRAM

By Jennifer P. Gaitano As part of the humanitarian activities of the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials dubbed “Maki-Brigada” in the municipality of Sibagat, Agusan del Sur, they reached out to select public schools in the area and provided assistance to the teachers and students.

Anna Mae Dadap, SK municipal federated president of Sibagat bared that in time with the opening of classes in this new normal, they were able to provide bond papers to be used by the teachers in printing their modules for their respective pupils/ students.

“Despite the limited budget, we tried our best to gather resources so we could buy bond papers and give it to the different public schools. Along with it, we also provided face masks,” said Dadap.

Dadap further revealed that in coordination with various

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youth organizations in the municipality, they were able to conduct relief distribution to the barangays. “In this activity, the members of the Lesbian/Gay/ Bisexual/Transgender/ Queer/Intersex (LGBTQI plus) have also joined with us and extend help to those in need,” she recalled.

The SK-Sibagat has also conducted fruit trees planting activity, which will benefit the youth sector during harvest time.

Meanwhile, she

added that to address the continuing problem of teenage pregnancy, they also conducted a symposium following strict social distancing while wearing their face mask and face shield.

“Apart from that, we also help the government in curbing the problem of insurgency. We, the SKs, have a great concern for the welfare of the youths and we want to prevent them from becoming victims and exploitation of the NPAs,” said Dadap.

(JPG/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

SURIGAO TRIBES HAIL SLAIN IP LEADER AS HERO By 1Lt. Krisjuper Andreo Punsalan

Surigao tribal leaders and members and the local government unit of Lianga rendered Indigenous People Mandatory Representative (IPMR) Datu Jumar S. Bucales a hero’s burial parade on October 10 in Diatagon, Lianga, this province.

About a thousand tribe members from Surigao and Eastern Mindanao, local government officials, IPMRs, friends, supporters, and relatives flocked in the long walk

to carry his remain to his final resting place.

Bayan Muna representative Eufemia Campos Cullamat, her sister, CNT-linked M a l a h u t a y o n g Pakigbisog Alang sa Sumusunod (MAPASU), and Northeastern Mindanao NPA Terrorist spokesperson Sandara Sidlakan accused Bucales to have participated in the killing of the Alternative Learning Center for Agricultural

Livelihood Development (ALCADEV) Executive Director Emerito Samarca but the accusation was eventually found baseless.

CPP Information Officer Marco Valbuena, in his statement, claimed that the Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) were responsible for the ambush-slay of Bucales and his companions on October 4 in Barangay Banahao, Lianga town.

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only for nine months as Lianga’s first IPMR but was able to accomplish tangible peace and development programs for the tribe, which included the facilitation of the closure of NPA Terrorist linked TRIFPSS and ALCADEV schools, the establishment of DepEd-SLT, electrification of sitios, the rehabilitation of farm-to-market roads and various livelihood programs in the conflictaffected communities which are the gateways to the Andap Valley Range.

According to Lianga Mayor Novelita M. Sarmen, Bucales proposed several development plans in the hinterlands to boost the eco and agri-tourism in the municipality.

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Bucales also appeared in various senate and congress hearings concerning NPA terrorist killings of IP leaders.

Bucales, being a former NPA leader and organizer, revealed how CNTs exploit lumads making him a hot target of the CNTs. In 2016-2018, he was ambushed thrice and was finally killed on October 4.

In his documentary entitled “Last Dance ni Bucales,” he said that he is no longer afraid of death because that is the cost of standing for truth and fighting against CNTs who continually oppress the IPs. He also said that since he surrendered in 2006, he accepted the fact that he can die anytime in the hands of

CNTs because it is the law of the CPP to kill all those who abandoned the terrorist armed revolution.

The Surigao tribes, local government units, provincial government of Surigao del Sur, National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), and Commission on Human Rights (CHR) condemned the brutal killings of Bucales and other IPs in Surigao.

“The attacks of the NPA are ‘disproportionate and brutal,’ and violate international humanitarian law,” said CHR Spokesperson Atty.

Jacqueline de Guia said in a statement.

Surigao del Sur supported the cause of Bucales and the Surigao tribe leaders to declare CPP-NPA as persona-non-grata in the whole province. During Bucales’ burial, Surigao tribes expressed their indignation through a protest.

Surigao tribal leaders said that Datu Jumar Bucales may be gone but his name will be forever remembered as the one who truly loved and cared for the tribe. (3rd SFBn-CMO/PIASurigao del Sur)

POULTRY: FARMERS’ HOPE ON HEAVY RAINS IN SURSUR TOWN Rice and corn production have been the primary livelihoods of the Cancavan Corn Growers Association (CCGA), a Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD)funded farmers’ group in Carmen, Surigao del Sur. The first half of the year beginning March is for corn planting while rice is November. While these practices are fixed in the community, they leave some farmers idle when heavy rainfall floods the lowland areas.

The climate in Surigao del Sur is characterized by yearround rainfall with annual precipitation of 4175 mm.

This phenomenon results in light to moderate flooding beginning in November and ending in June that only rice can withstand, according to association president Rezie Mollaneda.

“In Cancavan, most lowland areas suitable for rice and corn

By Mark Angelo Pineda are flooded by the end of the year. This is the reason why we readily take any opportunity, be it producing other crops in upland areas or raising animals, to support our families’ needs,” shared Mollaneda.

This is where the Native Chicken Production Project of the Special Area for Agricultural D e v e l o p m e n t (SAAD) Program of the Department of Agriculture - Caraga has proven useful.

Part of assisting small farmers in establishing income-generating livelihoods, the program introduces small farmers to manageable and sustainable livelihoods that can endure the driest or wettest days.

In December 2019, CCGA received 90 native chickens, a poultry house with a perimeter fence, feed, incubator, water plastic drum, and drugs and biologics

all amounting to Php 516,000.00.

As of August 2020, they have earned Php 19,529.00 from eggs and chicks’ sales. Rightfully, it is poultry that assures CCGA members have income even on rainy days.

Making it work

Introducing poultry in a corn-dominated area is not far-fetched; chickens feed on corn, after all. But because the project was relatively new to the community, some locals had their share of reservations.

Mollaneda recounts that incorporating poultry into their daily routine proved to be challenging. “At the start, the majority of CCGA members were reluctant.

Though government support is not new to us, this is the first poultry in the community. It’s not entirely laborious, but it took us time to get the hang of it.”

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As found, both economic conditions and community factors affected the success of the interventions.

Inputs-wise, CCGA is sufficient with SAADfunded farm inputs that will cover its production until 2021. Turns out, that the cooperation of the community was another hurdle that CCGA had to face.

“It did not help that people outside the association have had doubts as to the success of the project,” added Mollaneda. “Here, some locals had inherent doubts with governmentfunded projects. They were all ears waiting for our downfall. And this affected the mindset of some members. To date, almost half of the members have withdrawn from the project.

From the original 35 members, the CCGA has been reduced to 20 members (17 males and 3 females), nine months after the poultry kicked off.

However, they only need the existing committed members to stand the test of time.

Among the

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ones who remained committed to the project is Edilberto Frias— a senior, who spends an hour a week at the site to fulfill his tasks.

“I’m a widower and have been advised to take less-demanding tasks. So, I take part in feeding our chickens and in maintaining the poultry house well kept. This is my spare-time activity aside from gardening,” expressed Frias.

According to Mollaneda, poultry is easy, but you have to invest your time and effort for it to thrive.

“As the president, I take it upon myself to lead my members. We have implemented a schedule for everyone to participate in the labor.

We have the inputs necessary for production.

It is time and effort that are required of us, especially in monitoring the chickens,” shared Mollaneda.

As to the status of the project, Mollaneda admits that they have just begun. “We are through with the adjustment period. With the steady income coming in, we’ll eventually fulfill our goals

that include joining the leading suppliers of native chicken products in CarCanMadCarLan (the northernmost quarter of SDS).”

Later this year, the group will receive additional 160 native chickens, which they needed to boost their egg production. These inputs are on top of the vegetable and corn seeds (OPV and hybrid) and fertilizers (complete and ammonium sulfate) which they acquired earlier this year, totaling to an amount of Php 203,594.77.

Diversifying farm produce, which the association is pioneering with the poultry in their community, is an important component of economic growth that also helps achieve food security and increases employment in rural areas, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.

For most small farmers, all it takes is an opportunity to leap of faith. Truly, CCGA is on the right track. (SAAD/ DA-Caraga/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

IPS WANT CNTS PUNISHED FOR KILLING IP LEADERS IN SURSUR

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

Following the killing of Datu Jomar Bucales, along with other Indigenous Peoples (IP) leaders in Lianga, Surigao del Sur, the IP communities called on the different concerned government agencies, media, and other sectors to help bring those responsible to justice.

Datu Jimmy Guinsod, provincial Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) of Surigao del Sur has appealed to the national government for swift justice and wanted the communist terrorist group (CTG) in the province to be punished by law for their terroristic acts.

As he shared his sentiments, he also revealed that Datu Bucales has

been an active leader in the promotion of peace and development in Lianga and has been supportive of the government’s initiatives.

During a press briefing facilitated by the 401st Brigade, Philippine Army, Secretary Allen Capuyan of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) bared that the killing incident of Datu Bucales and other IP leaders is an expression of the Communist New People’s Army Terrorists (CNTs’) exploitation and abuse to the ancestral domain of the IP communities. “Such terroristic act should not be tolerated,” he said.

“Government agencies, media, October 10-16, 2020 |

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and other sectors should work together to help protect the rights and welfare of the Indigenous Peoples against the CNTs. The task force ELCAC (ending local communist armed conflict) is useless if these terroristic acts continue.

We will file a murder case and violation of international humanitarian law against the culprits,” cited Capuyan.

Capuyan emphasized the grassroots slogan that “those who have less in life should have more in law.” This, he said, reminding the government officials and stakeholders to revisit the Indigenous People’s Rights Act (IPRA) in order to put all resources and developmental efforts in the proper perspective.

“IPRA is a law to correct historical

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injustice ngunit nasaan na ngayon ang totoong pagkalinga sa mamamayan? (but where now can we see the real concern of the people?)” he said, adding that the efforts should be grounded on protecting indigenous peoples’ customary laws, their selfdetermination, and territorial rights as recognized under contemporary international law.

Mayor Novelita Sarmen of Lianga also expressed her condemnation to the brutal killing of the NPAs to the IPs. “It is with deep grief and sorrow to announce the untimely demise of Datu Bucales. We condemn such a brutal killing as it is a direct insult to democracy and to the most fragile peace and order we all hope to foster in our municipality,” she said.

Meanwhile, LTC Joey Baybayan, commanding officer of 3rd Special Forces Battalion, called on the IP leaders to closely coordinate with them should they have relevant activities and events to attend to, so they could be assisted/escorted to ensure their protection from the NPAs and prevent such incident.

Baybayan also recalled and recognized the late Datu Bucales for his efforts and initiatives in realizing peace and development in the ancestral domain.

Amid the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, Sec. Capuyan, along with other officials took time and visited the municipality of Lianga and initiated a plan of actions to ensure that responsible people for the killing incident will be put to jail and suffer the consequences. (JPG/VLG/PIACaraga)

MINDANAO NEWS

OVER 100K HECTARES IN MINDANAO PLANTED WITH HIGH-QUALITY RICE SEEDS

The Department of Agriculture – Philippine Rice Research Institute (DA-PhilRice) in Agusan del Norte contributed in ensuring food security in its area of coverage by providing seeds planted in more than 100,000 hectares (ha).

Under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF)-Seed Program, Jasmin Reyes, PhilRice Agusan RCEF branch focal person said more than 250,000 bags of certified inbred seeds were distributed and planted in the Northern, Northeastern,

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and Southern Mindanao.

Reyes said that over 76,000 farmers in about 120 municipalities received at least 40 kilograms (kg) of certified seeds. Farmers were listed in the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture.

Gregorio Orig, a 52-year-old farmer in Carmen, Surigao del Sur shared his harvest had increased with the certified inbred rice seeds he received from the program.

“I used to produce only 60-80 bags (60kg/ bag)/ha, but through these certified seeds, I harvested

100 bags per hectare!”

Orig said.

Meanwhile, Robert Oracion, a municipal agriculturist of New Corella, Davao del Norte commended the program as farmers in their area now prefer high-quality seed.

The RCEF-Seed Program, which is a component of the Republic Act 11203 or Rice Tariffication law signed

by Pres. Rodrigo Duterte, allots P10 billion fund every year for the rice farmers. Sponsored by Sen. Cynthia Villar, the program is a six-year government initiative to help the

farmers compete in the international rice market.

The local government units and lawmakers assist in its implementation.

PhilRice leads the RCEF-Seed Program and is the government’s lead agency on rice research

and development mandated to help ensure a rice-secure Philippines.

With eight stations across the country, its programs and projects are in line with the DA’s “Masaganang Ani, Mataas Na Kita” battlecry.

For more information about the Institute’s program, queries can be sent thru PhilRice Text Center (0917 111 7423) or email prri.mail@philrice. gov.ph. (DA-PhilRice/PIACaraga)

ZAMBO CASSAVA GROWERS THRIVE EVEN AMID PANDEMIC

By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.

RESILIENCE. Abdulhakim Jala, president of the Lubigan Cassava Growers Association (right) and a member of the association (left), display grated cassava, locally known as pangi, along the highway in Barangay Lubigan, Zamboanga City. The average farm-gate price of each block of grated cassava is P170 but dropped slightly following of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. (PNA photo by Teofilo P. Garcia, Jr.)

The coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic may have brought social and economic challenges, but a group of cassava growers here managed to sustain its livelihood and stay afloat.

The Lubigan Cassava Farmers

Association, whose members are into the production of grated cassava--locally known as pangi--has 152 members who cultivate some 200 hectares of cassava in the coastal village of Lubigan.

“There are farmers from nearby barangays

who supply us cassava, but their harvest is seasonal because they don’t regularly plant cassava unlike our association,” said Abdulhakim Jala, president of the Lubigan Cassava Farmers Association.

Pangi is raw grated cassava, formed into October 10-16, 2020 |

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blocks and wrapped in banana leaves or plastic.

The farm gate price for each block, which weighs between 11 to 13 kilos, is pegged at PHP170.

Jala said that the farm gate price has dropped to PHP140 apiece when the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic hit this city.

Many residents here consider grated cassava as a staple food, known as shanglag (fried rice) when cooked. The other customers, who are into the buy-and-sell business, cook the grated cassava into different kinds of native kakanin such as puto, bianban, and suman.

The delicacies are sold at the local public market and served in some of the eateries downtown.

Food pass The association slowly resumed selling pangi when the Department of Agriculture issued food passes two weeks after the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) took effect.

“We had no production when the ECQ was imposed; we had no income,” Jala said,

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adding the association’s members resorted to a “bayanihan” system to help each other with their daily needs.

“In terms of food, if you’re used to each cassava, you will survive,” Jala said. “We cook vegetables, grown in our backyard, as our viand.”

When they resumed producing pangi, the volume of production and sale was not as much as compared prior to the pandemic.

“There’s nothing we can do; it was better than no income at all,” Jala said.

Jala said that previously, they transport every evening three truckloads of pangi, which is around 1,500 blocks, to their customers at the local public market.

Occasionally, Jala said the group would supply pangi to the provinces of Basilan and Sulu through motorboats.

Cosechas de Zamboanga

The Agri-Trade Fair, dubbed as Cosechas de Zamboanga (Zamboanga’s Harvest), is part of the yearly Zamboanga Hermosa Festival, the highlight of which is the feast of Our

Lady of the Pillar, this city’s patron saint.

C a r m e n c i t a Sanchez, the city agriculturist, said the activity will run until October 15 and aims to showcase the locallyproduced products of the different agricultural districts and fishery organizations in this city.

“Through this event, the farmers can showcase their products as well as have the opportunity to establish a new market,” Sanchez said.

Jala said the Cosechas de Zamboanga has been a blessing for the association, helping them cushion the effect of the pandemic.

For this year’s AgriTrade Fair, Jala’s group is also selling peanut butter as well as dried fish.

Jala said with the way things are happening, the members of the association are with high spirits they can recover the market for pangi they lost due to the pandemic.

“With perseverance and patience, we are optimistic we can recover.

Our livelihood will be the same as it was before the health pandemic,” Jala said. (PNA)

NATIONAL NEWS

SEC. MARTIN ANDANAR PCOO

NEWS CORNER Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar paid homage to his uncle, former Santa Monica, Surigao del Norte mayor, Dr. Rumar Andanar, who succumbed to complications from coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) on Monday.

The Northern Mindanao Medical Center (NMMC) in Cagayan de Oro, where he was previously admitted, confirmed the death of Dr. Andanar early Monday morning.

Over the course of his career, Dr. Andanar was a former mayor of his hometown in Siargao, former provincial board member, former president of Rotary Club of Surigao City, and a former police major of the Philippine National Police.

He entered the police force on July 1, 1987 and was reinstated on Dec. 17, 2003. He retired from the service on Oct. 21, 2014 at the age of 56.

He served as a Municipal Health Officer from 1993 to 1995; a Provincial Board Member from 1995 -1998; and the Municipal Mayor of Sta. Monica from 1998-2001. Prior to his demise, he worked as a Medical Officer for a rehabilitation center at Barangay Anomar, Surigao City.

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ANDANAR HON FRONT-LINER U DIED FIGHTING

“Uncle Rumar T. Andanar, you have fought a good battle that will forever distinguish you from the rest of us. You continued healing people even at your retired and senior age,” Secretary Andanar posted on his social media account. “Our mayor, our police major, our dear uncle, father of cousin Mac, husband of Dr. Agnes, the people’s doctor, our front-liner and our hero has fallen. A life well lived, RIP Uncle Rumar. Salute!”

In his message, Secretary Andanar remembered his late uncle’s constant regard for his duty as a leader and public servant.

“Uncle Rumar’s commitment to public service and dedication to his work will always be remembered by everyone. His untimely demise was a loss of a dedicated public servant to his people,” he said. “This unfortunate event, so as the many similar circumstances our fellow Filipinos have experienced throughout the course of the Covid-19 pandemic, exhibits the sacrifices and risks our front-liners continue to endure each day of their service to our collective fight against the virus.”

The PCOO chief went on to remind the public to remain cautious and

NORS UNCLE WHO G COVID-19 Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Martin Andanar (File photo)

maintain compliance with the issued safety protocols to protect themselves and other people from getting infected.

“We call on all our countrymen to remain in compliance with the health protocols our government continues to remind us of. This as we aim to assist and protect our front-liners, also to strive to heal and recover from Covid-19 as one nation,” he said.

Secretary Andanar’s father, former Surigao del Norte governor and former DILG undersecretary Atty.

Wencelito Andanar, said his brother’s death was a great loss not only to his family, but also to the medical chapter in the CARAGA Region.

“I am in grief over the death of my dear brother who since childhood had stayed by my side, even so in difficult and trying periods of my life. I will always remember his kindness and wit,” Atty.

Andanar said. “We commend you for fulfilling your Hippocratic Oath till the end. We love you, Rumar. For Dr. Agnes and Macmac know that our family will always be here for you. “Brother, when I see you in the sun, I shall tell you much.”

The Santa Monica local government led by Mayor Fernando Dolar also mourned the passing of former Mayor Rumar.

“The LGU family of Santa Monica and all Sapaonons mourn the untimely passing of our beloved former mayor and board member, Dr. Rumar Andanar. May you rest in peace, pare.

Our heartfelt condolences to Dr. Agnes, Mark, and to the Tan-Andanar family,” Vice Mayor Arwela Dolar said.

Dr. Andanar is also the brother of incumbent provincial board member of the first district of Surigao del Norte, Edgar Andanar. (PR) October 10-16, 2020 |

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DILG Secretary Eduardo Año. (File photo)

DILG WELCOMES UNHRC SUPPORT TO PH HUMAN RIGHTS EFFORTS The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Monday welcomed the passage of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) resolution expressing support and cooperation for the country’s efforts to protect human rights.

“The UNHRC resolution is a welcome

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development on the part of the Inter-agency Committee on AntiIllegal Drugs (ICAD) Advocacy Cluster headed by the DILG. This move is a recognition that the government’s approach against illegal drugs is holistic. We are not only focusing on the supply reduction side but also on the demand

reduction aspect,” said DILG Secretary Eduardo M. Año in a news release.

Adopted during the council’s 45th session in Geneva, Switzerland, the UNHRC resolution called for technical assistance and capacity building for domestic efforts on human rights between the Philippine government and the Office of Human

Rights Council (OHCHR).

A¬ño said the proposed move further strengthens the Department’s unwavering commitment to the campaign against the illegal drugs menace in the country while observing and protecting the human rights of all individuals. He added that the DILG will also give more emphasis on community-based drug rehabilitation efforts.

“The Department has been steadfast in its commitment to eradicating the illegal drugs using a wholeof-nation approach to ensure that human rights protection is upheld in the performance of the sworn duties by all public servants under the DILG organization,” he added.

The DILG chief assured the public that even amidst the Covid-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) pandemic, the Department is unwavering in facing the illegal drug problem in the country based on a systematic analysis of the data gathered from the Anti-Illegal Drugs Information System (AIDIS) which is shared among the different drug

agencies.

He earlier ordered the PNP to tighten up the illegal drugs campaign with the easing of community quarantine in greater parts of the country as the trend of Covid-19 cases slows down daily.

Noting that some illegal drugs users have forcibly withdrawn due to lack of supply during the quarantine, Año emphasized that all forms of illegal drugs have to be stopped at all stages of the supply chain, from the production of raw materials to the distribution on the street.

“Sa gitna na malaking krisis na kinakaharap ng maraming bansa dahil sa pandemya, napakalaking ginhawa ang maidudulot ng pagtutulungan na inilalatag ng UNHCR para tuluyan na mapagtagumpayan ang illegal na droga sa bansa sa tulong ng lahat ng mga attached agencies ng DILG at ng iba pang mga sangay ng gobyerno.

Basta’t sama-sama at may disiplina, kayang kaya! (Amid a major crisis the country is facing due to the pandemic, the call

of UNHCR for cooperation between the attached agencies of the DILG and other branches of government in fighting the illegal drug problem is a sigh of relief. As long as there is discipline and cooperation, we can do it),” Año said.

The 47-member UNHRC acknowledged the country’s strong and open collaboration with the United Nations, particularly in the areas of the rule of law, justice, law enforcement, and accountability processes at the invitation of the government and, under national priorities.

Among the proposed areas of cooperation cited in the said UNHRC resolution are technical assistance and capacity-building, domestic investigative and accountability measures, data gathering on alleged police violations, civic space and engagement with civil society and the Commission on Human Rights, national mechanisms for reporting and follow-up, counterterrorism legislation, and human rights-based approached to drug control. (PR) October 10-16, 2020 |

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Senator Christopher Bong Go (File photo)

REFORMING PENSION SYSTEM WILL ENSURE FISCAL STABILITY: GO

By Lade Jean Kabagani

The old pension system for men in uniform should be improved to ensure the country’s fiscal stability, Senator Christopher Bong Go said on Monday.

In a manifestation, Go pushed for the passage of Senate Bill No. 1419, a measure

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which aims to maintain financial flexibility on the part of the government, while the state will “continue to provide adequate benefits and remuneration to the men and women in uniform.”

Go cited the vital tasks of military forces

and uniformed personnel to ensure the country’s peace and security.

“Even the Constitution recognizes the invaluable role of the military and our uniformed personnel in protecting the nation and its citizens from threats, both within

and outside the country’s borders,” he said.

Go said there is a need to reform the system in providing benefits for the military and uniformed personnel which is “necessary to achieve a balance between the governmental interest and the mandate to ensure the provision of adequate remuneration and benefits to them”.

If the old pension system remains, Go said there is a possibility that “ballooning budget burden where the total cost of the pensions of retired soldiers will exceed the compensation of those in active service”.

Go said while military personnel should be given what is due to them, there is a need to ensure the country’s fiscal stability.

Meanwhile, Go proposed a new pension system which he branded as a “win-win” solution.

He said Senate Bill No. 1419 will only apply to new entrants or those who will enter active service after the effectivity of the proposed law.

Those who are “active in service” will still get what they expect to get, he said.

Go said the full effects of the pension reform bill, if passed, will be seen after 35 years when the new entrants file for their retirements.

He added that the measure could benefit the entire military force and the country itself in the “long run.”

Go explained that the reform is needed to stabilize the country’s fiscal position.

He noted that the country might face significant fiscal problems in the future if the old pension system continues.

“This will be a problem not just for the retirees, but also for our future financial managers, the entire military service, and the country as a whole,” he said.

Go said the better time to pass the pension reform bill is while President Rodrigo Duterte is still in office.

He said both finance and budget departments have already backed the proposed pension reform bill.

Go urged his fellow legislators to listen to soldiers, the retirees, the future soldiers, and everyone else who will be

affected by the measure.

“The President and I will support the will of the majority. We will listen, as we always have.

Bukas po ang aming opisina sa lahat ng gusto magsalita (Our office is open for those who wish to speak),” he said.

During a Senate public hearing conducted by the finance committee on national defense, Go questioned the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) about the modernization program of Horizon One.

AFP chief of staff, Lt. Gen. General Gilbert Gapay, said the program, composed of the modernization of equipment, has already been completed.

Security forces are still finishing some projects on “bases developments” including some projects on Doctrines Development and Human Resources Development, Gapay said.

“Although very minimal ‘yung funding requirements nito, and it is included there, in the number of projects ongoing under the Horizon One,” he added.

(PNA) October 10-16, 2020 |

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READY FOR CALAMITIES. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) augments the stockpile of local government units in preparation for the typhoon season. DSWD Secretary Rolando Bautista said the agency has adequate standby funds for disasters or calamities.

(Photo courtesy of DSWD-1)

DSWD AUGMENTS LGUS’ STOCKPILE AMID TYPHOON SEASON

By Christine Cudis

Even with the ongoing public health crisis, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) on Monday said it made sure to secure the emergency response capacity of local government units (LGUs) nationwide.

A total of 2,081,469 family food packs (FPPs) were distributed nationwide, according to DSWD’s Disaster Response Operations Monitoring and Information Center (DROMIC) report.

“Ang ahensya ay patuloy na namamahagi ng FPPs sa mga LGU upang tulungan silang matugunan ang pangangailangan sa mga pagkain ng kanilang nasasakupan (The agency continues to replenish the FPPs of LGUs nationwide to help them address the needs of their people),” DSWD Secretary Rolando Bautista said in a virtual conference.

Bautista added that the agency has also provided the LGUs with nonfood items composed of basic hygiene and welfare necessities that cost about

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PHP1,070,944,878.

The DSWD field office in National Capital Region (NCR) received the highest chunk with 366,904 food packs while the agency’s field office in Region 8 (Eastern Visayas) received the lowest allocation with 16,271 food packs.

DROMIC also said the total cost of relief assistance has reached PHP1.59 billion.

Of this figure, PHP1.08 billion were shelled out by the DSWD while PHP477.52 million came from non-government organizations, and another PHP31.84 million from private sources.

“The assistance provided by LGUs is excluded from the breakdown,” the monitoring center added.

This, as the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration warned the public of five to eight tropical cyclones this October “most of which are expected to make a landfall.”

PAGASA cited the likelihood of bringing “floods, flash floods, and raininduced landslides over susceptible areas, particularly on the eastern sections of the country which normally receive greater amounts of rainfall at this time of the year”. (PNA)

PNP PERSONNEL TO SECURE NAT’L ID REGISTRATION

By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan Philippine National Police government to collect registration under the (PNP) chief Gen. Camilo data but also to make sure Philippine Identification Cascolan has ordered all that the minimum health System (PhilSys), initially police commanders to safety standard protocols in 32 provinces that are help secure the National are properly observed considered low-risk areas ID System registration that during the entire process for coronavirus disease will start in 32 provinces of data-gathering,” JTF 2019 (Covid-19). on Oct. 12, the Joint Task Covid Shield commander The National ID Force Covid Shield said Lt. Gen. Guillermo System was signed into on Sunday.

Lorenzo Eleazar said in a law in 2018 and was aimed

“Police personnel statement. at providing each Filipino on the ground should not The Philippine a unique number and an only ensure the security Statistics Authority (PSA) ID card to make it easier of those hired by the targets to conduct the for Filipinos, particularly October 10-16, 2020 |

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PNP Chief Gen. Camilo Cascolan (File photo)

the poor, to have access to the banking system and other services.

Eleazar said police commanders were ordered to start coordinating with both the PSA and the local government units, where the interview and datagathering would be held, in order to come up with security and health safety procedures for the entire registration process.

He said the participation of the police in the national ID registration is essential in securing both the enumerators/supervisors who were hired to conduct house-to-house visit and the residents they would visit.

D e p a r t m e n t of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo

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Año, meanwhile, said appropriate measures have been established to prevent possible Covid-19 transmission during the PhilSys registration activity.

“We will deploy additional PNP and barangay officials and volunteers to enforce the safeguards and minimum health standards,” Año said in a message sent to the Philippine News Agency.

The PSA has hired at least 5,000 personnel to interview and collect data from the target households in 32 provinces.

The data-gathering is just the first of the threepart process -- the other two are the visit of people to the designated centers for the biometrics, and the last process would

be the issuance of the national ID.

The first wave of the registration would be in Ilocos Sur, Cagayan, Isabela, La Union, Pangasinan, Zambales, Tarlac, Bulacan, Bataan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Cavite, Batangas, Rizal, Laguna and Quezon.

Also included are Camarines Sur, Albay, Masbate, Antique, Capiz, Iloilo, Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, Cebu, Bohol, Leyte, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao Occidental, Compostela Valley and Tawi-Tawi.

The registration for Metro Manila residents and other areas will start next year.

In April, President Rodrigo Duterte directed the National Economic and Development Authority to hasten the implementation of PhilSys.

The ID will contain the PhilSys number, full name, facial image, sex, date of birth, blood type, and address of the concerned individual.

The PSA aims to register an estimated 5 million low-income Filipinos by the end of the year and about 92 million

by June 2022. (PNA)

PCOO 2021 BUDGET TO FOCUS ON COMMUNICATING RECOVERY FROM PANDEMIC The proposed PHP1.59 billion budget for the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) next year will center on communicating the nation’s recovery, Secretary Martin Andanar said on Tuesday.

During the agency’s budget hearing before the Senate Finance subcommittee led by Senator Richard Gordon, Andanar said the PCOO and its attached agencies will continue to deliver truth, as well as hope that better days are coming for the Philippines amid impacts of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

“The PCOO’s budget for 2021 amounts to about PHP1.59 billion, which we will use to communicate to the people, as we recover as a nation, with the Duterte administration laying out the path for resilience

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and sustainability,” Andanar said.

The 2021 budget of the PCOO and its attached agencies was submitted to the plenary after the subcommittee session.

In the proposed budget, the PCOO proper has the largest share amounting to PHP472.3 million, followed by the Bureau of Broadcast Services (BBS) at PHP405.5 million, and the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) at PHP317.6 million.

The Presidential Broadcast Staff RadioTV Malacanang (PBSRTVM) gets the fourth largest share at PHP178.8 million, followed by the

News and Information Bureau (NIB) at PHP133.1 million, and the Bureau of Communications Services (BCS) at PHP68.6 million. Meanwhile, the National Printing Office (NPO) will get PHP11.9 million.

The agency also allocated subsidies to its government-owned and -controlled corporations (GOCCs) amounting to almost PHP150 million.

Of this amount, PHP76.2 million go to the People’s Television Network (PTV-4) to support its operations in offering better quality of programs; while PHP73.7 million will go to the Intercontinental

B r o a d c a s t i n g Corporation (IBC-13) to support its maintenance and other operating expenses.

This brings the total agency budget and GOCC subsidy to PHP1.74 billion.

Programs, priorities

Andanar also discussed landmark programs that the agency aims to embark with the proposed budget for next year, including the move to institutionalize the Laging Handa as the government’s leading crisis communication and information platform.

“Having this platform throughout all administrations that will follow will enable government communicators to be ready for future crises that may necessitate much coordinated, and stronger communication efforts, in order to provide extensive, timely, and reliable information for the public to prepare for, avoid, and respond to any man-made disasters, natural calamities, or infectious diseases,” he said.

Pioneered in 2016,

Laging Handa has served as a one-stop information platform of the country for keeping the public informed during crisis situations, may it be natural disasters or a health crisis.

Andanar reiterated that the PCOO will likewise continue to push for the passage of its key legislative priorities such as the Freedom of Information Bill and the Media Workers Welfare Bill.

“We will push for two key priority legislations next year to enrich our country’s vibrant freedom when it comes to information access, along with the welfare and the capacity of our media workers. These are the Freedom of Information bill, and the Media Workers Welfare bill,” he said.

The Freedom of Information bill seeks to institutionalize the FOI across all branches of government, directing them to disclose information on projects and other matters that involve public interest.

The Media Workers Welfare bill, meanwhile, seeks to provide media workers more access in

terms of security of tenure, adequate health benefits, housing programs, and appropriate hazard and overtime pay.

Purchase of ICT equipment, upgrade of gov’t media

He said PHP79.23 million of the PCOO’s budget will go to capital outlays. Two-thirds of this amount, or PHP52.35 million, is intended for the building construction of the Government Strategic Communication Academy in Bukidnon.

This will serve as a training hub for information officers of both the national agencies and the local government units. The facility will also house the government television and radio centers as well as housing facilities for personnel.

Moreover, the PBS-RTVM, BBS, and NIB budgeted the procurement of ICT equipment and software to further strengthen its media coverage on the President, and the Executive branch of government.

The BCS, meanwhile, allotted funds for the October 10-16, 2020 |

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printing equipment to complement its on-theground communications efforts. The PIA, on the other hand, will spend its allotted capital outlays to the improvement of its central office’s parking area and perimeter fencing.

While the 2021 budget may be significantly smaller compared to the current year, Andanar assured that PCOO will remain steadfast in fulfilling its mandate of delivering the truth, especially in this difficult time.

“Please be assured that we will continue to build on our efforts of bringing the truth to the nation, along with our foreign audiences,” he said.

He said the job of the PCOO is to deliver accurate and valuable information with excellence, responsibility, and integrity to the Filipino people, “so that they may be transformed into informed citizens and thought leaders, who will partner with us in achieving President Duterte’s legacy of providing a comfortable life for all Filipinos.”

“Our objective

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remains: bring hope to our people that better days are coming for the Philippines,” he added.

In the same hearing, Senator Bong Go expressed full support for the PCOO’s 2021 budget.

“Information is our best weapon against fearmongering and public anxiety. It is for this reason that the role of the PCOO, as the lead communications arm of the government, is very crucial now more than ever. Through the PCOO, we were able to inform, educate, and enlighten the Filipino citizenry about matters of national importance, and empowering them to deepen their civic engagement,” Go said.

“Dahil po sa PCOO, naiihahatid natin ng maayos at organisado ang impormasyon na kailangan ng tao tungkol sa mga proyekto, programa at polisiya ng gobyerno, lalo na ngayong kasagsagan ng pandemya.

At napatunayan po ito noong Marso na kung saan nagkaroon ng lockdown, talagang nag doubletime po talaga ang PTV-4 (Thanks to PCOO, we are able

to deliver information properly and organized that the people need about government projects, programs, and policies, especially at the height of the pandemic.

This was proven in March when we had a lockdown, and PTV-4 had to work double time),” Go said.

Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri, meanwhile, manifested support for the PCOO budget, especially the creation of the Government Strategic Communication Academy.

“I’ll push for the amendment of the budget of the PCOO to include that particular center to be placed in Northern Mindanao. I think ideal because Mindanao still needs to grow in terms of development, in terms of spreading the good news of government to its people because we still have an insurgency problem there, and we still have to convince the hearts and minds of the people there that government is actually doing something for them, is actually working for them,” Zubiri said.

(PCOO PR)

File photo

DOH SUGGESTS HOLDING OF ACTIVITIES IN OPEN SPACES AMID PANDEMIC

By Ma. Teresa Montemayor The Department of Health (DOH) on Monday advised the public to conduct activities in open air spaces, install exhaust fans in comfort rooms and avoid usage of recirculated air option for vehicles to prevent

possibility of contracting the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) through airborne transmission.

Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire, in a virtual press briefing on Monday, said that while health

experts are still studying the possibility of airborne infection, the DOH has issued Department Memorandum 20200429 which provides administrative and engineering controls for the improvement of October 10-16, 2020 |

63

ventilation and air quality in enclosed, indoor spaces and lessen the transmission of the virus.

“When an activity cannot be moved into an open air setting, opening windows and doors should be put into practice to facilitate the flow of outdoor air into the space, when possible,” the memorandum read.

The DOH advised individuals not to stay where air coming from fans and air-conditioning units flow directly as these may facilitate the transmission of the coronavirus “by directing

air from infected individuals to others in the room”.

“In non-hospital settings where ventilation is greatly recirculated or access to outside air is not feasible, filters such as high-efficiency particulate air filtration air purifiers can be used to clean recirculated air provided that the unit is adequate for the size of the room in which it is installed in,” it added.

The DOH also suggested the installation of exhaust fans in comfort rooms and closing of the toilet seat lid while flushing

to “minimize the release of droplets into air flows after flushing”.

“Utilize the car’s vents to bring in fresh outside air and/or lower the vehicle windows,” the DOH said, adding that recirculated air option for the vehicle’s ventilation during passenger transport must be avoided.

Earlier, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said people with Covid-19 seem to have infected others who were more than six feet away in enclosed spaces and inadequate ventilation. (PNA)

Contributed photo

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PH, CHINA REAFFIRM ‘CONTINUING VITALITY’ OF TIES AMID PANDEMIC

By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora The Philippine and Chinese governments have reaffirmed the “continuing vitality” of their bilateral relations amid the constraints posed by the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19)

pandemic.

The reaffirmation was made during the official visit of Foreign Affairs Teodoro Locsin Jr. to China where he met with State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

“The two Foreign Ministers held a bilateral meeting to take stock of priority political and economic bilateral cooperation initiatives.

Both sides reaffirmed the continuing vitality October 10-16, 2020 |

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of relations despite the constraints imposed by Covid-19, and pledged to forge ahead with sustained policy dialogues, as well as economic and infrastructure cooperation projects,” the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Saturday.

Wang, for his part, affirmed China’s commitment to supporting the Duterte administration’s

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infrastructure drive under the “Build, Build, Build” program.

The two top diplomats likewise had a “candid” and “in-depth” exchange on regional security concerns, as well as issues of mutual interest in the context of Asean-China relations in which the Philippines acts as China coordinator, as well as in broader multilateral fora.

At the meeting’s close, Locsin and

Wang also confirmed the prospective establishment of a fast lane to facilitate the movement of essential official exchanges and travel by personnel in crucial industries such as business and trade, infrastructure, logistics, production, and technical services.

Locsin is in China from Oct. 9 to 11, his first official trip overseas since February 2020. Wang received the Filipino top diplomat and his entourage in Tengchong City, in the southern province of Yunnan.

Joining Locsin are his wife Ma. Lourdes Locsin and several DFA officials, including Assistant Secretary Meynardo Montealegre, Philippine Ambassador to China Jose Santiago Sta. Romana, Chief of Presidential Protocol and Presidential Assistant on Foreign Affairs Robert Borje, Philippine EmbassyBeijing Minister Raphael Hermoso, Special Assistant Shiena EscotoTesorero, Embassy Third Secretary and Vice Consul Jet Olfato, and Asian and Pacific Affairs Principal Assistant Emilio Lopue Jr. (PNA)

DAGYAW 2020 RESPONDS TO COVID-19 CONCERNS

The government continues to build cooperation and deepen unity with the Filipino people through the conduct of the “Dagyaw 2020: Open Government Virtual Townhall Meetings� that will run from Oct. 8 to Dec. 3.

Cabinet officials, together with experts from non-government sectors, will tackle issues and provide updates about major plans, programs, and projects that would help address the needs of the people in the face of coronavirus-induced

headwinds.

Dagyaw 2020 will also serve as an open, neutral, and protected space for the public to freely ask questions, raise their concerns, and give suggestions on the ways to improve government policies.

The conduct of this series of virtual town hall meetings is a result of a successful collaboration among different government agencies, spearheaded by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Budget

and Management (DBM), and the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) in cooperation with the Caucus of Development NGO Networks and Right to Know, Right Now! Coalition.

It is anchored in the objective of the National Task Force Against COVID-19 Sub-Task Group on Governance to ensure people-centered, clean, technologyenabled, and responsive governance in addressing Covid-19.

Dagyaw began on Oct. 8 with its first episode, October 10-16, 2020 |

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“Usapang Edukasyon: Is PH Ready for Distance/ Blended Learning?” that was participated by the Department of Education, United Nations Children’s Fund, and E-NET Philippines.

Dialogues will resume on Oct. 15 for “Usapang Trabaho” with the Department of Labor and Employment, International Labor Organization, and NAGKAISA Labor Coalition.

This will be followed by “Usapang OFW: Kinabukasan at Kalagayan ng OFWs sa Panahon ng Pandemya” on Oct. 22 with the Department of Foreign Affairs, Blas F. Ople Policy Center and Training

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Institute, and Center for Migrant Advocacy.

On the last Thursday of the month, Oct. 29, the Department of Agriculture, World Bank, and Samahan ng Nagkakaisang Samahan ng mga Magsasaka will join “Usapang Agri: Ahon Lahat Para sa Pagkaing Sapat.”

The outputs from these dialogues will serve as key references of government in public decision-making, and shape and update government policies that can lead to better public sector performance and service delivery.

In observance of the required health protocols and limitations to travel and mass gatherings

in place due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the conduct of the Dagyaw 2020 will utilize various civic technology and online platforms.

The episodes will be livestreamed through the official Facebook pages of various government agencies including the Philippine Open Government Partnership, DILG, DBM, and PCOO, 2 to 4:30 p.m.

To join the Dagyaw dialogues, visit the Philippine Open Government Partnership Facebook page for announcements.

Also, check the social media pages of DILG, DBM, and PCOO for more information and for the schedule of the next four episodes. (PR)

Photo courtesy of US Embassy in Manila

US PROVIDES P73-M IN FOOD AID TO LANAO DEL SUR

By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora The United States government, through the US Agency for International Development (USAID), has provided an additional PHP73 million (USD1.5 million) in food assistance to support displaced families in Lanao del Sur province, the US embassy in Manila announced Tuesday.

This brings the

total US commitment to humanitarian and recovery work in and around Marawi to more than PHP3.1 billion (USD65.1 million).

“The Covid-19 pandemic has stripped many households of vital sources of income and made those displaced by conflict especially vulnerable. As friends, partners, and allies, the

United States continues to support the people of Marawi to overcome this health crisis and continue on their path to long-term recovery,” US Embassy Chargé d’Affaires John Law said.

The funding would be used to help more than 8,000 highly vulnerable persons to meet their essential nutritional needs. Families October 10-16, 2020 |

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Tribune.net.ph

would receive electronic cash transfers that would enable them to purchase food in local markets.

This is complemented by a messaging campaign promoting safe hygiene practices to equip communities with the knowledge and skills they need to slow the spread of the coronavirus disease (Covid-19).

According to the embassy, the new food aid builds upon ongoing USAID assistance that

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supports 3,700 displaced families and improves nutrition for 5,000 children and 6,000 pregnant women and lactating mothers.

The assistance also complements USAID’s work with Lanao communities under its Marawi Response Project (MRP).

As of July 2020, MRP has provided microgrants to more than 1,000 displaced entrepreneurs, as well as communities,

to revive their economic livelihoods and create jobs.

“MRP social cohesion micro-grants, which include small-scale infrastructure support, have benefited more than 14,000 displaced persons and host families,� the embassy said.

The project also provided training, protective gear, and disinfectants to more than 3,300 public health workers. (PNA)

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