Caraga InFocus - September 24 - 30, 2016

CONTENTS REGIONAL NEWS

7 Winrock-PCCP, PIA intensify ‘Food 8 DOST, Safe Caraga’ campaign seeks community participation in 9 DILG MASA MASID program Caraga endorses P102 Million agri 10 PRDP projects Project ‘Double Barrel’ nets 35,911 drug pushers, users in Caraga

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24 - 30 Sept. 2016 Volume 1, No. 26

COVER

PROVINCIAL NEWS

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DAR farm equipment, access to credit boost farmer org’s income in AgNor town No movement in prices of basic commodities, says DTI

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DAR Caraga hands-over FDA’s license to operate to AgSur coop Maritime stakeholders to celebrate National Maritime Week 2016 in Surigao Norte DepEd Surigao Norte trains teachers on teaching guides making ‘Teambayayong’ TWG to visit Lumad communities in Lianga town

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AgNor SP urges DBM to include KALSADA program in 2017

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Sec. Panelo graces inauguration of rehab center, launching of SURE program in AgSur Surigao Norte solon appeals to private sector to donate strong signal jammers to stop drug trade in Bilibid 6,711 drug personalities surrender in SurSur 5 NPA rebels surrender in Surigao del Sur

32 HEALTH NEWS:

FNRI determines level of commonly used food coloring

MINDANAO NEWS

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P500-M tech-voc school for Mindanao soon to rise

NATIONAL NEWS

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EcoWaste mourns death of Miriam Champion for a toxic-free PH

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Comelec to SK voters as of July 2016: No need to register anew

Solidifying building blocks of peace and progress

News Briefs Ten farmers from Jabonga, Agusan del Norte received land titles from the Department of Agrarian Reform in a distribution ceremony on Sept. 30 during the conduct Peace Caravan. The titles comprise 21 hectares of agricultural lands in the 3 barangays of Jabonga namely Cuyago, Magsaysay and San Vicente.

The National Consciousness month is commemorated every Month of September as it marks the important milestones in pursuing the peace process in the country.

The Agusan del Sur Police Provincial Office has conducted an Awareness Drive on Drug Abuse Prevention during the 1st Children’s Festival held recently at Rosario Municipal Gymnasium in Rosario, Agusan del Sur.

With the implementation of Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) program in Caraga region by the Department of Agriculture, one is already GAP certified out of the 29 pre-assessed farms. It can be noted also that Stanfilco Dole Philippines is a global GAP certified.

Cover Story

Solidifying building blocks of peace and progress

CARAGA INFOCUS

COVER STORY

By: Venus L. Garcia

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T

he complex reality of putting the puzzle pieces together or fitting in the blocks to shape the desired approach for the nation’s lengthy road to peace, stability, and development is existent. But the Philippines sees a stronghold of progress through reinforcement of effective strategies under the leadership of President Rodrigo R. Duterte.

“Likewise, plans to engage in peace talks with all the major Muslim groups have also taken shape, slowly making good on his promise to bring peace to Mindanao within his term,” mentioned Pimentel.

As typically heard, “peace is what we make of it,” thus, by keeping the beam sturdy to brace the undertakings in countering violent unrest, insurgencies and terrorism, the country’s sustained progress is winnable. (PIA-Caraga)

CARAGA INFOCUS

Citing more of his observations, Pimentel said that the President has made an indelible mark during the recent ASEAN Summit, bringing into fore the life-long issues of our people while reaffirming our country’s

“Thus far, he has made remarkable commitment to the ideals of our gains in the country’s fight against Asian neighbors and the international illegal drugs, especially targeting the so- community. called narco-politicians and coddlers of drug lords,” enunciated Pimentel.

“President Digong, with his resolve, can very well steer this nation

He further said that the prospects back again to where it should be,” for lasting peace are rife. The Oslo underscored Pimentel. round of Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) peace panel In that regard, the pace and - National Democratic Front (NDF) evolving tactics employed are integral recent talks ended in high note with to complement the constructive the indefinite ceasefire declaration, change that is fundamental in enabling both panels now to move into peacebuilding and for fulfillment of the succeeding rounds. inclusive growth.

COVER STORY

For Tandag City Mayor Alexander T. Pimentel, he perceived the sincere intent of the President on stopping mass poverty, corruption, crime and illegal drugs.

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Photo Gallery PIA Caraga NSED

CARAGA INFOCUS

COVER STORY

3rd Quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill Philippine Information Agency Caraga Region 28 September 2016

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Project ‘Double Barrel’ nets 35,911 drug pushers, users in Caraga By: Nora C. Lanuza Molde

BUTUAN CITY – Since its implementation on July 1, 2016, a total of 35,911 drug personalities from various parts of the region have surrendered to police and Photo from Bcpo-Bcps-1 local authorities under the intensified Project “Double Barrel” campaign of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

For the period July 1, 2016 to September 12, 2016, Boquiren also reported that 304 operations have been conducted with 424 number of persons arrested and 19 killed.

REGIONAL NEWS

The province of Agusan del Norte PPO has 5,857 surrenderers; Agusan del Sur PPO – 8,826; Dinagat Islands PPO–1,706; Surigao del Norte PPO –

7,481; Surigao del Sur PPO – 6,343; and Butuan City PO with 5,698.

Also, a total of P19,298,084 Dangerous Drug Board value of drugs (Shabu and Marijauna) were confiscated under the Project High Value Target/Low Value Target (HVT/ LVT), Boquiren said. (NCLM/PIACaraga)

CARAGA INFOCUS

PSupt. Joseph Boquiren, Deputy Chief of the Regional Operations and Plans Division of PNP Caraga during the Regional Development Council – Development Administration Committee (RDC-DAC) third quarter meeting held on Tuesday, September 20 bared that of the 35,911 surrenderers, 11,419 were all under the watchlist submitted to the PNP, while the 24,492 are newly-identified drug personalities.

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DOST, Winrock-PCCP, PIA intensify ‘Food Safe Caraga’ campaign By: Jennifer P. Gaitano

CARAGA INFOCUS

REGIONAL NEWS

BUTUAN CITY – The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) through the Caraga Food Safety Team (CFST), in partnership with Winrock International – Philippine Cold Chain Project (PCCP) and Philippine Information Agency is intensifying its campaign to fulfill food safety in the region.

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According to DOST Caraga regional director Dominga Mallonga, their partnership with Winrock-PCCP and PIA is aimed to increase promotion of food safety awareness through a massive information, education and communication campaign called “Food Safe Caraga.”

“This campaign is in accordance to the provisions of the Republic Act Number 10611, also known as the Food Safety Act of 2013 – An Act to Strengthen the Food Safety Regulatory System in the country to protect consumer health and facilitate market access of local foods and food products,” reiterated

Mallonga.

The good director further expressed her optimism that their partnership with Winrock and PIA will reach many places, as they will be doing various activities and efforts to reach out to people and inculcate the significance of ensuring food safety all the time.

The DOST is guided with the vision to uphold “a reservoir of scientific and technological know-how providing world-class solutions that empower Filipinos to attain higher productivity and better quality of life.” (JPG/PIACaraga)

DILG seeks community participation in MASA MASID program By: Venus L. Garcia

are also tasked to advocate crime prevention, peace and order, security, and in enhancing transparency and accountability in the barangay,” said DILG-13 regional director Lilibeth Famacion.

MASA MASID is designed to enhance the conduct of advocacy and education campaigns, information gathering and reporting to reduce the supply and demand of illegal drugs, and community-based rehabilitation program to address the need for interventions of the surrendering drug personalities.

“The Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Council (BADAC) and Barangay Peace “With this strategy, we can get and Order Council (BPOC) in particular immediate action from the people

CARAGA INFOCUS

By creating an umbrella organization to consolidate the efforts of the barangay-based institutions through the spirit of volunteerism, the MASA MASID (Mamamayang Ayaw Sa Anomaliya, Mamamayang Ayaw Sa Iligal Na Droga) program, a multisectoral and mass-based approach, shall mobilize and converge Ugnayan ng Barangay at Simbahan (UBAS) Barangay Action Teams (BATs) with the member civil society organizations (CSOs) and non-government organizations (NGOs) of barangaybased institutions.

REGIONAL NEWS

BUTUAN CITY – In its bid to empower communities and fortify people’s participation in the war against illegal drugs, corruption, and criminality through reliving the spirit of ‘bayanihan’ or volunteerism in the country, the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Caraga is encouraging more the locals in every barangay to help report any of these irregularities to lift the involved out from such quagmire.

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in the barangays since the program intends to heighten community involvement y mobilizing the support of the stakeholders, volunteers, civic organization, faith-based organizations and the private sectors,” stated Famacion.

The MASA MASID, which comes from Filipino words meaning “people” and “watch,” also aims to create an enabling environment to encourage collaboration among the community

partners to effectively implement the Community-Based Rehabilitation Program.

As indicated in the memorandum circular regarding the implementation of MASA MASID program, the Expended UBAS city/municipal technical working group (TWG) will serve as the social facilitator. The team will be responsible in convening, organizing, training, and mobilizing the MASA MASID team at the barangay level. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

PRDP Caraga endorses P102 Million agri projects

CARAGA INFOCUS

REGIONAL NEWS

By: Emmylou Presilda

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Photo from DA-Caraga

BUTUAN CITY - After thorough deliberation, the Regional Project Advisory Board (RPAB) of the Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) in Caraga Region has recently approved and endorsed for funding a total of P102 Million worth of subprojects (SPs) from different proponent groups (PGs).

and revisions before finally presenting it to RPAB for approval. This, to make sure that if given the final go, will serve its purpose in line with the project’s objective that includes increasing farmers’ income, productivity, and competitiveness in the countryside.

The municipality of Cortes, Surigao del Sur which is the lone proponent for Infrastructure Component during the deliberation also received endorsement from the RPAB with four subprojects amounting to a total of P22.6 Million. These include the construction of six watch towers, nine

“These projects should not only papag dryers, five units all-weather benefit its direct beneficiaries but dryer, and one warehouse with solar should also become a venue to dryer. enable communities alleviate poverty that even after the Project has ended, “These subprojects will not only people will continue to live and help our fishers and seaweed farmers prosper,” Manantan said. but will also sustain the protection of our marine protected areas and fish

PRDP, a six-year national sanctuaries and would eventually government platform for inclusive, create employment for our people,” value-oriented, and climate resilient said Coastal Resource Management agriculture and fisheries sector, has Officer Vincent Dueñas of Cortes. been known to have championed measures on transparency and After endorsement of the accountability. subprojects to the National Program Coordination Office (NPCO) for further

Following the rigorous process of evaluation, PGs will have to wait for coming up viable business enterprises, the No Objection Letter 1 (NOL1), each project proposal went through which signals the approval of each several in depth assessment, scrutiny proposal. (DA-Caraga)

REGIONAL NEWS

During the deliberation, Department of Agriculture (DA) Caraga OIC regional executive director and RPAB chair Renato P. Manantan emphasized that PGs should have the capacity to carry out the projects and ensure its sustainability to get approval from the board.

PHILIPPINE RURAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECT

CARAGA INFOCUS

Nineteen of the SPs amounting to a total of P80 Million are under the Enterprise Development portfolio that aims to increase farmer’s individual income and benefit the various associations and cooperatives. These include project proposals on geonet production and marketing, rice processing and trading, seaweeds production and marketing, cardava production and marketing, banana consolidation and marketing, bangus production and marketing, and abaca production and marketing.

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Photo Gallery PEACE CARAVAN

Brgy. Baleguian, Jabonga, Agusan del Norte

CARAGA INFOCUS

REGIONAL NEWS

30 September 2016

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DAR farm equipment, access to credit boost farmer org’s income in AgNor town

BOFIA Chairman Wenifredo Maldo was recently a recipient of a recognition from the national leadership of Agrarian Production Credit Program (APCP), a credit program of Department of Agrarian

Reform (DAR) and Department of Agriculture (DA) for production capital assistance to farmers, for 100 percent repayment of loans borrowed by its members held in Cagayan de Oro City last Mar. 9-10, 2016.

CARAGA INFOCUS

BUTUAN CITY - In a poor community where businesses can hardly survive without the required economic liquidity to provide a market for any enterprise, the achievement of Baleguian Organic Farmers Irrigators Association (BOFIA) is a story of struggle in achieving a modicum of economic success through financial discipline inspiring leadership and transparent management.

PROVINCIAL NEWS

By: Gil E. Miranda

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CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

that supply water to 180 hectares of CARP distributed ricelands.

Crossing through the rice fields strategically are concrete roads funded also by ARISP II.

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BOFIA is the monitoring arm of DAR, NIA and LGU in providing feedback and laborers during the construction of roads and irrigation facilities. The members active

“Nindot lang ang tabang feed-backing resulted in the quality ninyo sir kung kami nakasabot nga completion of the projects. dili lang bayran and utang kung di Micro-lending with APCP as among ipakita nga kami nabulahan tungod sa tabang (The assistance of capital, enterprise operations with DAR is significant only if recipients farm implements from ARCCESS, and understands that repayment is not partnership with line agencies (LAs) simply returning the money but in and local government units (LGUs) infrastructure implementation demonstrating with our lives and in families that we have been better off make BOFIA a perfect candidate outstanding award having with it),” said Maldo upon his arrival in for demonstrated the capability to Butuan City. inspire members to pay their financial

BOFIA has now a total asset value obligations, profitably operate rural of P40 million consisting of rice threshers, enterprise, productively manage their hand tractors, harvester, floating farms and effectively coordinate with tiller and tractor with plow trailer, partner agencies. (DAR-Agusan del which they got from DAR’s Agrarian Norte) Reform Community Connectivity and Economic Support Services (ARCCESS) program. The farm implements alone are providing an income of more than P200,000 annually to the association.

BOFIA has also a record performance in keeping a 100 percent payment of irrigation fees to National Irrigation Administration (NIA) with irrigation facilities funded by DAR through Agrarian Reform Infrastructure Support Project phase II (ARISP-II)

No movement in prices of basic commodities, says DTI

According to DTI Agusan del Norte Consumer Welfare Division Chief Wyn Palma, this was based on the result of the monitoring they conducted immediately after the declaration until this time.

Palma also clarified that the current prize freeze of basic commodities due to the declaration of the state of lawlessness will be in effect for 60 days unless the president orders it lifted within the period.

Palma clarified that the DTI is only in charge of monitoring the prices of manufactured basic commodities while the Department of Agriculture monitors the agricultural products such as rice, fish and vegetables.

“Since the declaration of state of lawlessness was signed on September 4, 2016, the prize freeze will continue until the first week of November,�

Palma said. (Radyo ng Bayan Butuan/ PIA-Agusan del Norte)

CARAGA INFOCUS

BUTUAN CITY - The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Agusan del Norte assured the consuming public that there was no movement in the prices of basic commodities in the city since the declaration of the State of Lawlessness in the country by President Rodrigo R. Duterte.

PROVINCIAL NEWS

By: Maria Lourdes Pizarro-Apego

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AgNor SP urges DBM to include KALSADA program in 2017 By: Aimee B. Sienes

PROVINCIAL NEWS

KALSADA, also known as Konkreto at Ayos na Lansangan at Daan tungo sa Pangkalahatang Kaunlaran Program was adopted and implemented by the national government to assist provinces in the rehabilitation of core provincial roads.

CARAGA INFOCUS

BUTUAN CITY The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Agusan del Norte urged the national government through the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to include the KALSADA Program in the 2017 national expenditure program and allocate a portion of the national budget for the continuity of said project.

This year, P6.5 billion has been earmarked for the KALSADA Program to be implemented by 73 provinces.

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The funds would be directly downloaded to the provinces that

have met and complied with good governance standards, social development benchmarks and established monitoring and evaluation mechanism for road projects.

In its Sanggunian Resolution No. 1482016, the SP urged for the inclusion of KALSADA Program in the national budget considering its significance and that it would upgrade, improve and rehabilitate core provincial roads in Agusan del Norte. (LGU-Agusan del Norte)

Photo Gallery Usapang SSS Survey - Bayugan City

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Barangay Poblacion, Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur 29 September 2016

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DAR Caraga hands-over FDA’s license to operate to AgSur coop By: Corine G. Munion

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) has recently handed-over the License to Operate (LTO) approved by the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) to Kaagap Multi-Purpose Cooperative (KAAGAPMUCO) for its Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) project during the Coconut Farmers Congress held at San Francisco Municipal Gymnasium, this province.

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The issuance of LTO to KAAGAPMUCO is said to be the first in DAR Caraga Region. The coop took pride in becoming globally competitive being an importer, distributor, wholesaler and manufacturer of VCO products.

finally complete the documents and submit to FDA Caraga Regional Office.

Availability of funds for the renovation of production plant that conforms with the FDA specifications, schedule of laboratory testing, site inspection by FDA personnel were just

For KAAGAPMUCO, acquiring some of the factors to consider in the the said LTO was not just a walk in the delay. park. The documentation process was tedious and the compliance to the With the assistance from the building specifications was also very DAR Agusan del Sur thru the Program stringent. It took them eight months to Beneficiaries Development Division in

expressed Maximino Robles Jr., manager of KAAGAPMUCO.

By: David M. Suyao

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur - Chief Presidential Legal Council Atty. Salvador Panelo flew all the way from Manila to grace the inauguration of the Residential Treatment and Rehabilitation Center (RTRC) and the formal launching of the Substance Use Recovery and Enlightenment (SURE) program that will address the needs of the victims who submitted themselves at the height of the war staged by the government against illegal drugs.

CARAGA INFOCUS

Sec. Panelo graces inauguration of rehab center, launching of SURE program in AgSur

PROVINCIAL NEWS

VCO is an edible oil extracted from the kernel or meat of mature coconuts harvested from the coconut palm. Aside from its perceptible nutty aroma, it is recognized to be the purest form of coconut oil, being partnership with the Department of chemical and additive free. It is higher Trade and Industry (DTI) Agusan del Sur, in vitamin content, antioxidants and the coop was able to pass the entire minerals. documents required.

Because of its wide range

“We are very happy that finally of market demand nowadays, the we already received what we aimed members of KAAGAPMUCO are for a long time. Right now we are hopeful that their VCO products will in the process of negotiating with also be recognized globally. (DARprospective buyers here and abroad,� Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

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The SURE program became Ordinance No. 135 series of 2016 passed by Sangguniang Panlalawigan member Santiago Cane Jr., approved on September 14, 2016 by Gov. Adolph Edward Plaza.

The RTRC is one of the components of the SURE program purposely to house severely affected victims of illegal drugs, who submitted themselves for treatment during the operation “Tokhang.”

“If Pres. Duterte did not win the election, will all these things about drugs be unearthed? Will there be a President as decisive as now?” BGen. Evangelista remarked.

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Presently, there are already patients who avail of the totally free services of the RTRC located at the 401st Infantry Brigade Headquarters in New Leyte, Awa, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur.

After the blessing of the RTRC, Gov. Adolph Edward Plaza and 1st District Representative Maria Valentina Plaza, with Sec. Salvador Panelo, Department of Health (DOH) Usec.

Achilles Gerard Bravo, PNP 13 regional director PCSupt. Rolando Felix, BGen. Ronnie Evangelista of the Eastern Mindanao Command, Philippine Army, and other dignitaries proceeded to the Provincial Government Center for the formal launching of the SURE program at the Outreach Drop-in Center (ODIC).

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Photo credit: Armando Gomez

this program and project exist. I am also honored to say that the people of Agusan del Sur is my inspiration and it is my moral duty and responsibility to give better life of every Agusanon,” Gov. Plaza said.

In his statement, DOH Usec.

Achilles Gerard Bravo said he is glad to announce that the plan to establish rehabilitation centers was decentralized at the regional level.

He added that while the national government is in the process of implementing the plan nationwide, “Our country is facing very Agusan del Sur has already established sensitive, very dangerous problem. The its own.

President said never in his imagination that we have such a drug menace

According to Gov. Adolph in a magnitude that even the most Edward Plaza, he was toying with the visionary could not visualize – the idea of formulating SURE program and 712,000 surrenderees.

There are establishing the ODIC in Agusan del already 3.7 million addicted with these Sur for a very long time until he met dangerous drugs and once already an International Certified Substance afflicted for more than a year, it is no Abuse Therapist by the name of Mark longer reversible. We can now imagine Larry Chua two years ago. we have 3.7 million potential killers, rapist, robbers and other criminals,” he

“I believe it’s God’s blessings said. for the Agusanons that President Rodrigo Duterte became our President “I then suggested to the President because we have one common that with this kind of people, we need goal: To eradicate the drug problem an island with facilities like schools and in the country. Now here we are, other facilities that would address the inaugurating the RTRC and launching needs of the people and have these the SURE program. Presently, there people transferred to that island in are 41 recovering persons from drug order to save them and save the society addiction in the ODIC. And I am very from them,” Sec. Panelo added. (PPIOproud that only in Agusan del Sur that Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Meanwhile, Sec. Salvador Panelo thanked Gov. Plaza for giving him the opportunity to join the activity. Panelo said he was impressed with Gov. Plaza’s sincerity and passion, which is evident in his accomplishments for several years serving as governor and with programs like the SURE. Sec. Panelo also recalled the statements made by President Rodrigo Duterte regarding the war against illegal drugs.

CARAGA INFOCUS

“In all sectors of the society, drug menace is there. I would suggest that instead of barking against each other, why don’t we exhaust our resources? Why don’t we exhaust our energy into contributing to resolve this drug menace? This is no longer for us because we have been affected already. This is for the next generation and the generation to come,” BGen. Evangelista added.

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Photo Gallery

SOV-RSC Meeting

2016 Search for Outstanding Volunteer Regional Selection Committee meeting NEDA mini conference room, Butuan City 26 September 2016

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH CARAGA Monthly Media Forum

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

27 September 2016

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Maritime stakeholders to celebrate National Maritime Week 2016 in Surigao Norte By: Susil D. Ragas

PPA Surigao port manager Mildred J. Padilla said the celebration is aimed to give tribute to all the seafarers and stakeholders who are indispensable to the industry and had contributed much to the country’s economy.

One of the highlights of the weeklong celebration is the opening of the MARINA Sattelite Office at the Port of San Jose in Dinagat Islands.

Other activities calendared for the event include thanksgiving mass, dressing of ships, blowing of horns, wreath laying, press conference, open house/ship baseport, mangrove planting, coastal clean-up, bloodletting activity, volleyball friendship game, search and rescue drill, port and shipping consultative forum, fellowship

PROVINCIAL NEWS

The event, which is anchored on the theme: “Shipping: Indispensable to the World,” is spearheaded by the provincial station of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Surigao del Norte, Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), and Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA).

Photo credit: 30IB Phil. Army

CARAGA INFOCUS

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte – In line with the government’s efforts to recognize thousands of Filipino seafarers working here and abroad, the stakeholders of the maritime industry here are celebrating the National Maritime Week from Sept. 25-30, 2016.

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night, and ceremony.

closing

and

awarding of the National Seafarers Day (NSD), National Maritime Day (NMD) and the National Maritime Week (NMW),

The National Maritime Week is making the celebration more significant celebrated by virtue of Proclamation and more inspiring. (SDR/PIA-Surigao No. 1094, consolidating the celebration del Norte)

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Surigao Norte solon appeals to private sector to donate strong signal jammers to stop drug trade in Bilibid

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SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte In light of the recent revelation that convicted drug lords still manage to run their “businesses” inside the New Bilibid Prison through the use of communication gadgets, Surigao del Norte 2nd district representative Robert Ace S. Barbers made an appeal before the private sector to donate state-of-the-art and high-powered signal jammers to the Department of Justice (DOJ) to end drug related activities inside the national penitentiary.

“It’s quite alarming that despite being heavily guarded by no less than the elite Special Action Force, inmates of the maximum security compound can still get away with their illicit criminal acts. Drug trade is still very much active inside and outside Bilibid as per the testimonies of the witnesses.

Walang saysay ang pagpapahuli at pagpapakulong sa mga drug convicts kung sa loob mismo ng kulungan ay may pagkakataon silang maipagpatuloy ang ganitong kalakaran,” Barbers said.

“Aside

from

using

cellular

phones for drug trade, inmates use it to arrange delivery of contrabands and execute plans of retaliation. In all legality, convicted criminals have no business using communication gadgets while inside the Bilibid,” Barbers said during the House investigation on the proliferation of drug syndicates at the New Bilibid Prison,” he lamented.

“This is why there is a need to install state-of-the-art and high powered signal jammers especially in buildings where hardcore drug lords are detained. Cellular phones are getting smaller and are therefor harder to detect by our already-burdened prison

guards. Kaya nga kailangan ng signal jammers, para kahit may cellphones silang hawak, useless na ang mga ito,” said Barbers.

“The DOJ admitted that they have no technology to jam 3G or LTE-able mobile phones. Hence, I appeal to the private sector to donate signal jammers to be used against the commission of criminal acts by inmates. Together, let’s work hand-inhand to challenge the status quo so we, as a country, can finally welcome the change that everyone so desires,” he added. (AG, Congressional Office/ PIA-Surigao del Norte)

The said activity aims to revisit the K to 12 curriculum guide for Grade 11 Science and Math, and capacitiate the newly-hired teachers on the methodologies of teaching in the academic track. Likewise, the activity seeks to strengthen the skills of teachers based on their area of specialization, and prepare teaching guides to improve the learning outcomes of students.

provincial government under the leadership of Governor Sol Matugas in building the capacities of the teachers.

Outputs from the workshops such as teaching guides were presented to Department of Education (DepEd) Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Fidela Rosas, who shared challenges and valuable insights during the culminating program. (DepEd Said activity also supports the Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del thrust of the HEALS plus agenda of the Norte)

CARAGA INFOCUS

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte – Around 66 Science and Math teachers of Surigao del Norte Schools Division were recently trained on the making of teaching guides for Senior High School Grade 11 students during the Division Walk-Through of Curriculum Guides held here.

PROVINCIAL NEWS

DepEd Surigao Norte trains teachers on teaching guides making

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Photo Gallery Usapang SSS Survey - Bad-as SDN Bad-as, Placer, Surigao del Norte

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

30 September 2016

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6,711 drug personalities surrender in SurSur By: Nida Grace P. Barcena

The 6,711 drug personalities The city of Bislig has recorded 659 included 6,676 drug dependents or surrenderees and Tandag City with 531. users and 135 pushers.

PPO PCR assistant officer Arlene Tanzo also noted that Tandag City has

Accordingly, Barobo town the most number of PNP personnel recorded the highest number of drug assigned with 88 police officers surrenderers with a total of 736. Ten of including the senior officials. (FEA/ them were pushers, while 726 are users. NGBT/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

CARAGA INFOCUS

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – Since the Police Provincial Office (PPO) of Surigao del Sur launched “Operation Tokhang,” it has recorded 6,711 drug personalities who have surrendered in various police stations in the province, an updated report received from the PPO Surigao del Sur headed by PSSupt Romaldo Bayting.

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Photo credit: PAj Avila

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‘Teambayayong’ TWG to visit Lumad communities in Lianga town By: Nida Grace P. Barcena

CARAGA INFOCUS

PROVINCIAL NEWS

Photo credit: NICO ALCONABA/INQUIRER MINDANAO

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TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – The “Teambayayong” Technical Working Group is set to visit Brgy. Diatagon in Lianga town on Sept.

28, 2016 to conduct consultation and dialogue with the displaced lumads who have returned to their villages after staying at the Surigao del Sur Sports Complex for a year.

Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer (PSWDO) May Navidad Salinas confirmed during their recent meeting that the TWG, composed of members from the different line agencies, provincial government of Surigao del Sur and other stakeholders, will implement its reintegration program for the lumad communities.

Plans for the rehabilitation and repair of roads and bridges, proposal to avail for the emergency shelter assistance (ESA), consultative meeting for the construction of IP school building, and the final list of the internally displaced persons were among the topics raised during the meeting.

The issue on the exact number of displaced lumads were also tackled.

For the PSWDO, they have recorded a total of 473 displaced lumad families while the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga Regional office has more than 700 families.

With this conflicting data, it was agreed that the concerned Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officers are required to submit the final list duly validated and verified by the Barangay Local Government Unit (BLGU) and endorsed by the concerned local chief executive.

Salinas explained that the data gathered by their office was based on the actual assessment inside the Surigao del Sur Sports Complex during their relief distribution before the lumads went back to their communities on Sept. 2-3, 2016.

The final listing of the IDPs is essential in order to proceed for the implementation of reintegration projects and programs, Salinas concluded. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)

5 NPA rebels surrender in Surigao del Sur By: Venus L. Garcia

established by the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) - NPA in the outlaying localities in Lianga, Surigao del Sur.

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The former rebels claimed that they were members of the Komiteng Rebolusyonaryo sa Munisipalidad (Municipal Revolutionary Committee)

PROVINCIAL NEWS

BUTUAN CITY – Five members of the New People’s Army (NPA) went back voluntarily to the folds of the government after realizing how tough and distressful the many struggles they had faced staying with the communist group.

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With the help of the 75th Infantry (Marauder) Battalion, said former rebels had the better opportunity to return to the mainstream society.

They were able to turn over to the government six M16 rifles, 22 magazines, five bandoliers and bullets in the presence of MGen. Benjamin Madrigal, commanding general of the 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army.

Meanwhile, 402nd brigade commander Col. Isidro Purisima also expressed that they respected the order of ceasefire. “We are in support of peace talks because as Filipinos we are here to help our fellows to transform them from being unlawfully armed,” he added.

As expressed by alias “Dodong,” they withdrew without letting anyone from their comrades know about the plan because they were tired of the illegal and criminal operations conducted by the NPA group.

They will receive each a P15,000 immediate cash assistance and P50,000 livelihood aid. Another P5,000 will also be given from the office of the provincial governor of Surigao del Sur. (PIA-Caraga)

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

Col. Purisima said that their peace development operations had

When asked on how would they contributed in convincing the NPA handle those former rebels who have members to surrender and start a new pending cases, MGen. Madrigal bared peaceful life. that legal proceedings will continue to be carried out. “On the other The former insurgents will be given hand, those who desire to join the support through the Comprehensive army service must first qualify with the Local Integration Program (CLIP) requirements and comply everything as they go back to their respective that is necessary,” said Madrigal. communities.

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Photo Gallery Blessing & Inauguration MARINA Satellite Office San Jose, Dinagat Islands 28 September 2016

3RD QUARTER NATIONWIDE SIMULTANEOUS EARTHQUAKE DRILL

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PROVINCIAL NEWS

Tandag City 28 September 2016

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FNRI determines level of commonly used food coloring

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HEALTH NEWS

Food coloring, or color additive to some, is any substance that enhances the appearance of food. Food coloring is widely used in commercial food production and domestic cooking.

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containing food coloring can increase hyperactivity among children.

In some events, toxicity of food coloring may result to injuries, even deaths.

Food additives are mainly used to maintain or improve the appeal in The Food and Nutrition Research processed food, drinks, and condiments. Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST)

Moreover, they are used to add evaluated the post-regulation safety colors to colorless food, avoid color loss due to current or changing settings, and provide color consistency to the food.

Despite proper regulation of food coloring, reports show that high exposure to certain additives can result to adverse effects to health.

A study by the United Kingdom (UK) Food Standards Agency in 2007 revealed that consumption of foods

Tartrazine and sunset yellow are synthetic yellow azo dyes that are mainly used in desserts and sweets, beverages, snacks, condiments and spreads, among others. These food colorings may be responsible for causing certain allergic reactions.

Results of the study showed that exposure to tartrazine and sunset yellow are within Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) across the general population.

This was after comparing the exposure estimate, using the maximum levels of food additive by the Codex General Standards for Food Additives and the individual food consumption data from

More advanced exposure assessment can be considered using actual use of food additives in the food industry.

Food additives are helpful in keeping nutritious foods palatable and marketable. Keeping their ADIs across the general population especially among children can result to a win-win situation.

For more information on food and nutrition, contact: Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department of Science and Technology, General Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City; Tel/ Fax Num: 8372934 and 8373164; email: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph, mar_v_c@ yahoo.com; FNRI-DOST website: http:// www.fnri.dost.gov.ph.; FNRI Facebook page: facebook.com/FNRI-DOST; FNRI Twitter account: twitter.com/FNRIDOST. (Jund Rian A. Doringo, FNRI-DOST S&T Media Service/PIA-Caraga)

HEALTH NEWS

The FNRI study evaluated food colorings most extensively used in the food industry – tartrazine and sunset yellow.

the 2008 National Nutrition Survey, with the relevant ADI.

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of food additives based on current consumption patterns to estimate the exposure and describe the risk of the Philippine population to certain food colorings.

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P500-M tech-voc school for Mindanao soon to rise

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MINDANAO NEWS

Photo from PIA Misamis Oriental

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VILLANUEVA, Misamis Oriental - The Andrew Gotianun Foundation, Inc. (AGFI) has inked a Memorandum of Understanding with a pledge of P500 million to the Educational Research and Development Assistance (ERDA) Foundation and Xavier University to put up a Technical-Vocational High School for scholars at the PHIVIDEC Industrial Estate in Villanueva town, Misamis Oriental.

The school, which will be called Andrew L. Gotianun, Sr. Center for Integrated Technologies, Xavier University, is envisioned to produce graduates who are world-ready, with international standard competencies, and spiritual and social commitment.

AGFI shall finance the construction of the school buildings, workshops, and dormitories, as well as the provision of furniture and other equipment, IT, Tech-

Voc machinery and transport vehicles.

The Foundation also commits to partly finance the annual operating costs of the senior high school for the first five years of operations so all its students can attend as full, live-in scholars.

Dedicated to the memory of Filinvest Founder Andrew L. Gotianun, Sr., the school represents his advocacy for education and his commitment to the progress of Mindanao. (FDC)

Photo Gallery

Avenue, Butuan City 27 September 2016

2015 CENSUS of POPULATION Regional Data Dissemination Forum 2nd Flr. Rosario’s Seafood Restaurant & Grillhouse Chinese Cuisine, Butuan City 27 September 2016

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88th Regional Development Council Meeting NEDA Caraga Bldg., J. Rosales

PHILIPPINE STATISTIC AUTHORITY

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REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL -Caraga Region

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NATIONAL NEWS

EcoWaste mourns death of Miriam - Champion for a toxic-free PH

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QUEZON CITY - The EcoWaste Coalition, a waste and pollution watch group, has joined the nation in honoring Sen. Miriam Defensor Santiago who passed away Thursday morning at the age of 71.

More recently, Miriam advocated for the return of the illegal garbage shipments from Canada.

“In keeping with the pledge she made in 2010 to include hazardous chemicals in her legislative agenda, Miriam filed at least 75 bills and resolutions in the 15th and 16th Congress that tackled chemicals, products and wastes, which threaten maternal, child and environmental health,” said Aileen Lucero, National Coordinator, EcoWaste Coalition.

She added: “If elected, I will invoke the Basel Convention to force Canada

Among the environmental health to take back the trash it dumped on bills that she filed were a bill banning Philippine soil.” single-use plastic bags, a bill restricting cadmium, lead, mercury and “Had she won the presidency, hexavalent chromium in packaging Miriam would have promoted and a bill establishing a Pollutant the ratification of the Minamata Release and Transfer Registry.

Convention on Mercury in her first 100 days in office.

“Among our lawmakers, Miriam distinguished herself as the Senator with Had she won last May, she would the sharpest eye for waste and toxic have immediately rescinded the issues,” Lucero said. guidelines adopted by the National Solid Waste Management Commission

In fact, during the last six years, allowing thermal waste-to-energy Santiago pushed for legislative facilities in violation of the Clean Air inquiries and measures on a litany Act’s ban on incineration,” Lucero of health and environmental topics pointed out. raised by the EcoWaste Coalition – from Bisphenol A in children’s “Miriam twice failed in her bid to products, mercury in skin whitening become the President of the Republic of cosmetics, lead in paints and the Philippines, but in our heart of hearts products such as toys, health Miriam was our legislative champion hazard posed by loombands and in building a toxic-free nation that we, toxic adhesive used in artificial nails, the people, continue to fight for,” the Lucero said.

EcoWaste Coalition stated. (EcoWaste)

NATIONAL NEWS

In response to an election survey questionnaire sent by the EcoWaste Coalition to all the 2016 presidential candidates, where she emerged as the “greenest,” Santiago declared that: “We must not process the waste in the Philippines, as it sets a dangerous precedent. If we allow one country to turn the Philippines into a garbage dump, we are telling all other countries that they can do the same.”

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Through a statement posted in the group’s blog, the EcoWaste Coalition hailed Santiago as their “indefatigable champion at the Senate on waste and toxic issues.”

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NATIONAL NEWS

Comelec to SK voters as of July 2016: No need to register anew

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MANILA - The Commission on Elections clarified that Sangguniang Kabataan voters as of July 2016 do not need to register again in the next round of the continuing registration.

“Their registration records will be included in the SK database except those who will be thirty-one (31) years old on October 23, 2017,” Comelec Spokesperson James Jimenez said.

The voters’ registration period will run from October 3, 2016 to April 29, 2017, Mondays to Saturdays, including holidays, except November 1, December 24 and 25, December 31, January 1, 2017, and April 13 and 14,

The Comelec Spokesperson 2017. added that those who have not reached the required voting age Both Houses of Congress passed on or period of residence on the day September 13, 2016 the bill postponing of registration but will possess such the Barangay and SK polls to October qualifications on or before election 23, 2017. (Comelec) day may register as voter.

Photo Gallery Third Quarter RDRRMC Full Council Meeting Butuan City 29 September 2016

EMPLOYEE’S COMPENSATION COMMISSION Press Conference Dottie’s Place Hotel & Restaurant Butuan City 28 September 2016

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Surigao del Norte/Dinagat Islands

MARIA LOURDES PIZARRO-APEGO JUND RIAN A. DORINGO GIL E. MIRANDA CORINE G. MUNION EMMYLOU PRESILDA AIMEE B. SIENES DAVID M. SUYAO AG, CONGRESSIONAL OFFICE LGU-AGUSAN DEL NORTE DAR-AGUSAN DEL SUR RADYO NG BAYAN BUTUAN PPIO-AGUSAN DEL SUR DEPED-SURIGAO DEL NORTE ECOWASTE, COMELEC DA-CARAGA FNRI-DOST S&T/ MEDIA SERVICE FDC Business Manager

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