Caraga InFocus – September 12-18, 2020

CONTENTS

Volume IV, No. 38 Sept. 12-18, 2020

Caraga

INFOCUS

ARTICLES

8 10 13 14 17 19

REGIONAL NEWS

Caraga RTF-ELCAC eyes establishment of public schools in insurgency-affected areas in SurSur CSU to launch intellectual property webinars, virtual tech pitching RCEF mechanization reaches CARAGA Region New, free fertilizer app for rice available on ‘play store’

PROVINCIAL NEWS

AgNor town provides livelihood, assistance to address COVID-19 effects

AgNor town SK launches agri program, activities for youth amid quarantine

8 14 20 23 24 26 27 30 32

20 24

Army uncovers abandoned CNT lair in AgNor; seizes high powered -firearms parts, supplies Border frontliners sa Agusan del Norte binigyan ng parangal 600 households benefit from RCSP services in Agusan Norte town PWDs, pedicab drivers receive aid from PNP 321 NPA supporters, members affirm allegiance to government U.S. Embassy, DepEd launch new teacher training program 113 FRs at tagasuporta tumanggap ng cash assistance mula sa E-CLIP sa SurSur

40

36 37 40 42 44 46 48

MINDANAO NEWS

Mindanao Poultry, Livestock: Agusan Norte sets 5,000-has. for sorghum growing program MinDA eyes establishing seaweed-processing facility

NATIONAL NEWS

PCOO to launch docu series featuring Covid-19 front-liners Bayanihan 2 to provide gov’t support to affected sectors: Andanar Locally-made products prioritized under Bayanihan 2 House okays disaster resilience dep’t on 2nd reading P300-M allotted for displaced teachers under Bayanihan 2

COVID-19 NEWS

50

PRRD asks private hospitals to allot more beds for Covid patients

51

DOH lauds RITM for testing over 200K individuals for Covid-19

52 54

Go leads unveiling of 82nd Malasakit Center Workers displaced by Covid-19 urged to get free skills retooling

COVER

44

52

Surigao Norte LGUs enhance agri production T

By Venus L. Garcia

he local government units (LGUs) of the different municipalities in Surigao del Norte province are taking actions to capacitate the communities with the skills and techniques in farming in order to increase agricultural production in this time of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

4

| September 12-18, 2020

More locals are now getting involved in multi-crop production such as rice, corn, root crops and vegetable resulting to the increase in the volume of harvest.

The provincial government of Surigao del Norte through the Pagkaon Surigaonon Palamboon Program extends its support to the LGUs and farmers through distribution of assorted vegetable seeds, organic fertilizers, fine mesh nets, plastic mulch and technical support, among others.

This is also in response to the Department of Agriculture’s Ahon Lahat, Pagkain Sapat Kontra COVID-19 (ALPAS-COVID-19) or popularly known as “Plant, Plant, Plant” program which aims to address the concern on food security while improving the food adequacy level at the same time.

(SDN-Provincial Agriculture Office/ VLG/PIA-Surigao del Norte) September 12-18, 2020 |

5

News Briefs The Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO), through the Freedom of Information - Project Management Office (FOI-PMO) will conduct the FOI Virtual Conference for LGUs - Mindanao Leg on 23 October 2020 via Zoom Teleconference. The conference aims to provide an avenue to promote awareness on the FOI Program and encourage LGUs to pass their respective FOI Ordinances to promote transparent and accountable governance and to localize the right to access government information. xx

The Philippine Commission on Women joins the nation in acknowledging the role, loyal service, and commitment of teachers in developing globally-minded citizens, nurturing families, strengthening communities and building nation.

We recognize their dedication to this profession despite the circumstances brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.

They have adopted different methods of teaching and strive to hurdle challenges along the way so they can continue to teach their students. Maraming salamat at mabuhay po kayo, aming mga guro!

“Research shows that stress in parents is a major predicament of child abuse,” cited Dr. Ruby Punongbayan, head pediatric emergency section of St. Luke’s Medical Center during today’s webinar dubbed “Child Protection 101 for Physicians”.

The members of the Committee on Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) of the province of Agusan del Norte convened to discuss and share updates on the program. Issues and concerns on surrendered firearms demilitarization will be tackled; halfway house admission requirements and process; status of children involved in armed conflict; resurfacing of former rebels and the reintegration process of former rebels, among others.

REGIONAL NEWS

Caraga RTF-ELCAC eyes establishment of public schools in insurgencyaffected areas in SurSur

By Rhea C. Mendez

The Caraga Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) eyes the establishment of public schools in insurgency-affected areas in the province of Surigao del Sur to replace the now-closed Tribal Filipino Program of Surigao del Sur (TRIFPSS) and the Alternative Learning Center for Agricultural and Livelihood Development (ALCADEV).

The TRIFPSS and ALCADEV are across the towns of Marihatag, Lianga, private institutions operating as private Tago, San Agustin, and San Miguel. schools in the eleven (11) barangays Said schools were closed due to the

8

| September 12-18, 2020

lack of permit from the Department of government.

Education (DepEd).

To help expedite the establishment

Two of the 11 schools located at of the much-needed schools in the Sitio Simowao, Brgy. Diatagon in Lianga nine remaining areas, the RTF-ELCAC and Sitio Lucnodon, Brgy. Mahaba in TWG issued Resolution No. 1, Series of Marihatag have already submitted 2020, “Requesting the Department of documentary requirements for the Environment and Natural Resourcesestablishment of DepEd-accredited Caraga to Donate to the Province schools, DepEd Caraga regional of Surigao del Sur the Confiscated director Francis Cesar Bringas said Logs and Lumber to be Used in the during the recent RTF-ELCAC technical Construction of Indigenous Peoples (IP) working group (TWG) virtual meeting.

Schools and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority to

Construction for a classroom Facilitate the Fabrication of Tables building in the said areas began and Chairs for the Nine (9) IP Schools in in March of this year through the Surigao del Sur”. joint efforts of the Philippine Army’s (PA) Engineering Brigade and the In addition, the same TWG issued municipal governments of Lianga and Resolution No. 2, Series of 2020, “Enjoining Marihatag, under the supervision of the Municipal Mayors of Lianga, Tago, the education department and the Marihatag and San Miguel, Surigao provincial government of Surigao del Del Sur to Identify Possible Sites for the Sur. Financial support was provided by Establishment of Indigenous Peoples the Social Development Committee (IP) Schools in the Nine (9) Conflictof the Caraga Regional Development Affected Barangays”. (NEDA Caraga/ Council (RDC) and the provincial DMNR/PIA-Caraga) September 12-18, 2020 |

9

CSU to launch intellectual property webinars, virtual tech pitching

The Innovation and Technology Support Office (ITSO) and the Technology Transfer and Licensing Office (TTLO) of the Caraga State University (CSU) in Butuan City is set to launch a series of webinars to educate the public on intellectual property (IP) and technology commercialization, as part of the two-month Science and Technology for Development (SciTech4Dev) event of the university this September to October 2020.

From September 21-30, CSU will host a webinar series on IP that will cover topics on intellectual property system, copyright, trademark, patent, industrial design, and utility model among other forms of IP.

10

| September 12-18, 2020

Target participants for this webinar are those from the industry and the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Teachers and students from elementary to college levels may choose on what particular day they will

attend the webinar.

shall also be issued to the participants who completed each of the webinars

Participants are encouraged to delivered after also completing register in advance on the following the assessment or webinar survey/ links: evaluation forms.

Batch 1 September 21: https: // us 02 CSU’s ITSO is an Intellectual web.zoom.us/ meeting / register/tZwuf- Property Office of the Philippines 2oqjkiE9Wd8sqDKiMMHdW2sRE3WytA (IPOPHL)-ITSO Social Franchise and the “go-to” office on intellectual property

Batch 2 September 22: https: concerns of the university and works // us 02 web . zoom. us / meeting / in coordination with the Department register/tZ0rce GgpzwtEt2pQ7lGKs of Trade and Industry (DTI) - Caraga 107xKZLozV9Z6L Region’s own IP desk.

Batch 3 September 28: https: // us02 web . zoom . us / meeting / register /tZ0vdO6vq D0qE9K0r21oo 98x Tbm QtTTHNHGN

CSU and IPOPHL have launched the first IP advocacy office in the region at the CSU Campus, Ampayon, Butuan City way back on February 5, 2014.

Since then, numerous seminars related

Batch 4 September 29: https: // to IP have been conducted by CSU’s us02web.zoom.us / meeting / register ITSO. /tZAtf-GupzIrH9zQQrWPMkNq434t4C_ cGJFe

Innovation and intellectual property are two very significant

On September 30, CSU-ITSO shall topics to be shared to the public, also conduct the technology pitching including the students from all levels online in the hope of engaging the and faculty members if they intend MSMEs and the industries in the region. to develop products and services for CSU’s technologies to be presented the establishment of future startups or would include agricultural machinery, spinoffs. food, and ICT systems.

Startups with strong intellectual

For those interested, the public property have a significant advantage may also register through this link: https:// over those startups without IP. In a very us02web.zoom.us/meeting / register / competitive business environment, IP is tZ0ld-2vrzkvGd Raggmxu 2rkDCM bvV a catalyst for businesses to capture a S8Ntdh significant market share. IBM, Google, Apple, and Samsung, to name a few of

After registering, you will receive the most innovative companies today, a confirmation email containing rely significantly on the IPs developed information about joining the meeting. from their products to strengthen their A digital Certificate of Participation market share.

September 12-18, 2020 |

11

The ITSO’s core functions revolve 3) In support of IP utilization by around three areas, namely: assisting the commercialization of globally-competitive innovations:

1) In support of Intellectual Property • Renders IP audit and evaluation (IP) creation by facilitating access services; to global science and technology • Provides licensing support; information:

• Provides advice on IP

• Serves as a patent search facility management & commercialization and library patent information; strategies; and

• Provides skills training in patent • Be a depository of patentsearching; related documents, papers and

• Renders patent search services; statistics. and

• Organizes a community of For more information, the ITSO patent information users. or the TTLO Facebook Page can

2) In support of IP protection by promoting domestic and globallyrecognized innovations:

• Provides general information on patents and patenting;

• Provides skills training in patent drafting and prosecution;

• Renders patent drafting and prosecution services; and

• Organizes a community of experts to participate in patent examination.

12

| September 12-18, 2020

be accessed through https://www. facebook.com/TTLO.CSU. The TTLO Facebook Page is also being established for the promotional purposes of these webinars. All announcements related to the webinars shall also be posted there as well. For other information, participants may send an email inquiry to Engr. Jeffrey T. Dellosa, ITSO manager and TTLO director of CSU through this email address: jtdellosa@gmail.com.

(CSU-ITSO/TTLO/PIA Caraga)

RCEF mechanization reaches CARAGA Region

By Jett Molech G. Subaba

The Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) Mechanization Program, through the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PHilMech), turns over 113 units of agricultural machines to qualified farmers’ cooperatives and associations (FCAs) in Caraga region.

The turn-over was held on August 20, 2020 at the Department of Agriculture (DA) Integrated Laboratory Division, Taguibo, Butuan City. The DA Regional Field Office XIII and other local government officials attended the event.

The 26 FCAs with an estimated 4,570 farmer members were carefully evaluated and shortlisted by the Facility Management and Field Operations Division (FMFOD) of PHilMech headed

by Mr. Joel V. Dator prior to the distribution.

Caraga rice farmers received 21 units of four-wheel tractor, 41 units of hand tractor, 23 units of floating tiller, 3 units of rice precision seeder,

2 units of walk-behind mechanical rice transplanter, 5 units of riding-type mechanical rice transplanter, 8 units of rice reaper, 17 units of rice combine harvester and one unit of mechanical dryer.

It has an estimated amount of P85 million which is part of the 2019 P2 billion budget of the program. More machines can be expected for the region as PHilMech is eager to accomplish the procurement under the 2019 P3 billion and 2020 P5 billion budgets.

The machinery grants are totally free and PHilMech does not require any monetary amount from FCAs for the processing and/or release of the machines. (DA-PhilMech/PIA Caraga) September 12-18, 2020 |

13

New, free fertilizer app for rice available on ‘play store’

By Allan Biwang, Jr.

Right amount of nitrogen fertilizer for rice can now be generated through a free android application developed by the Department of Agriculture-Philippine Rice Research Institute (DA-PhilRice).

Derived from a four-stripped handy “ruler” called Leaf Color Chart (LCC), the PhilRice Leaf Color Computing Application (PhilRice LCC App), which can assess nitrogen status of the rice plant, is now available on Google Play

14

| September 12-18, 2020

Store (https://play.google.com/store/ apps/details?id=ph.gov.philrice.lcc).

Designed for farmers, extension workers, researchers, and students, the mobile app generates nitrogen

recommendations in just under a minute based on the digital images of intact rice leaves photographed directly from the field.

Meanwhile, Dr.Karen Eloisa Barroga, PhilRice deputy executive director for development, said the app is useful for farmers who often apply too much nitrogen especially

Ailon Oliver Capistrano, PhilRice during wet season, which results in pest senior researcher, said that app users infestation. only need to lay down the topmost, fully expanded rice leaf on the “Many farmers are now online. smartphone’s front camera to capture They also have their children to assist its image with the surrounding light as them. I’m sure that the LCC app will source of luminance. quickly find its way to them to guide them in the accurate application of

According to him, nitrogen levels nitrogen,” Barroga said. of rice plants can be measured from a digital photo of its leaves, which is The January to April 2020 data strongly correlated with actual leaf of the DA-PhilRice Facebook page nitrogen concentrations. showed that 75% of its clients are farmers

“The app measures the intensity who frequently use the Messenger. The of green color based on the captured rest are students, extensions workers, leaf images and converts this into and researchers. values correlated with the amount of

Recommendations derived from nitrogen in the leaf,” he explained. the LCC app will be showcased in field

Different camera types are demonstration while farmers engaged normally installed in smartphones with through Facebook will be encouraged variations in terms of resolution. The to download the LCC app. research team found that regardless of brand, smartphone cameras will Recently, Agriculture Secretary deliver an almost similar reading at William Dar announced that the 5MP. This means that app users can department will harness state-of-theinstall the app even in an inexpensive art tools, systems and technologies to smartphone brand and benefit from its modernize and industrialize Philippine function. agriculture to ensure food supply.

“The app is more accurate than the LCC as it eliminates the subjective perception of users, which is prone to variation or errors. The app is also handy for new users or adopters who have no training or experience in the use of the manual LCC,” Capistrano said.

“By digitalizing agriculture, our farmers and fishers can achieve bigger yields of higher quality products, at a more cost-efficient and sustainable manner,” he said. (DA-PhilRice/PIA Caraga) September 12-18, 2020 |

15

PROVINCIAL NEWS

AgNor town provides livelihood, assistance to address COVID-19 effects

By Nora C. Lanuza

Even before the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the local government unit (LGU) of Nasipit in the province of Agusan del Norte has already assisting its constituents. Nasipit Mayor Enrico Corvera said on Friday during the Laging Handa program hosted by Communications Secretary Martin Andanar that various livelihood assistance programs were provided to farmers, and fisherfolk in the area.

One of which is the Mariculture Park of the town which is already providing employment and livelihood, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, its operation was affected because of the imposed travel restrictions that

resulted to the shortage of markets that challenges the LGU so much.

According to Corvera, the Mariculture Park is one of the sources of livelihood in the area, that is why he September 12-18, 2020 |

17

was asking the help of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to establish or even find other market for their harvest, the bangus (milkfish). The Mariculture Park of the municipality has a total of 38 fish cages and each cage has a capacity of up to 24 tons, he said.

Also, coconut farmers were given support through the shared service facility of the government. Farmers are allowed to use the equipment to enhance and improve their farm harvest during the pandemic.

To address food security, the LGU also distributed seedlings to the different barangays for their ‘Gulayan sa Barangay’ program and for the residents to earn a living because their harvest will be sold to the local market.

18

| September 12-18, 2020

Meanwhile, since one of the entry ports of Caraga is located in Nasipit town, Mayor Corvera said that measures were also established to protect their residents. With the help of the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), all incoming passengers – the locally stranded individuals (LSIs) and returning OFWS (ROFs) were properly managed and given due assistance following health protocols set by the health department. Those individuals arrived in the port and going home outside Caraga region were also assisted especially when the LGU-concerned cannot fetched them on time.

The PPA in coordination with the LGU has provided them temporary shelter as holding facility and as a quarantine facility as well. (NCLM/PIA Agusan del Norte)

AgNor town SK launches agri program, activities for youth amid quarantine

By Doreen Marielle Rosales

As part of the youth’s participation on the government’s efforts to mitigate the effects of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Federation of Nasipit town in Agusan del Norte launched programs and a series of activities amid quarantine restrictions.

The “Indigay Gulayan sa Kabatan-onan” was launched in coordination with the provincial government of Agusan del Norte, under its “Plant, Plant, Plant” program.

The program sought to boost food production and security in the municipality, especially with the decrease in food supply from suppliers outside Nasipit town due to community quarantine protocol, as reiterated by SK Federation President of Nasipit John Rey Ruiz on Friday’s episode of the Laging Handa Network Briefing

with Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar.

The youth council also made sure to provide the youth avenues to hone their skills even as they spend less time outdoors. During the September 12-18, 2020 |

19

celebration of the Linggo ng Kabataan celebrated recently on August, a series of contests on face shield making and poster- and slogan-making contests were launched virtually.

While active youth engagement is a primary objective of the youth council, the youth’s health and safety remains a priority during these times.

The youth council president called

for the youth’s cooperation in strictly abiding health protocols.

“Follow protocols set by our authorities. If there is no need to go out, stay at home. This goes to all youth, especially those who are aged 21 and below. Staying at home is the best way for us to avoid contracting this deadly disease,” he furthered. (DMNR/PIACaraga)

Army uncovers abandoned CNT lair in AgNor; seizes high powered -firearms parts, supplies By 1Lt. Roel T. Maglalang

An abandoned hideout of the Communist New People’s Army Terrorists (CNTs) was recently uncovered by the troopers of 23rd Infantry “Masigasig” Battalion (23rd IB), Philippine Army in the forested area of Mt. Indocay, Sitio Bulak, Barangay Lower Olave, this town.

20

| September 12-18, 2020

The discovery of the hideout and the retrieval of the different parts and supplies for high-powered firearms was successful due to the timely information provided by the local residents in the area. Upon receipt of said information, 23rd IB troopers were immediately dispatched in the area for security operations that led to the discovery of the CNT den.

balls, one bolt assembly for M15E2S rifle, one barrel for M15E2S rifle, one lower receiver for M15E2S rifle, one upper and lower handguard for M15E2S rifle, one butt for M15E2S rifle, one buffer tube for M15E2S rifle, one butt plate for M-14 rifle, and one upper receiver of caliber .45 pistol.

Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, the Acting Commander of 23rd IB, expressed gratitude to the local populace in the area who pinpointed the exact location of the abandoned enemy hideout.

The abandoned hideout measured 300 square meters that can accommodate around 30 persons.

The civilians in the area said the CNTs abandoned the hideout about five months ago.

“We are glad that the local residents are very cooperative to us in

Recovered from the area ending local communist armed conflict includes one generator (PROMAX), one in Agusan del Norte,� Paulo said. magazine for AK-47 rifle, two magazines for M-14 rifles, two magazines for caliber He emphasized that Sitio Bulak is .45 pistol, 40 rounds of CTG 5.56mm formerly known as the guerrilla base of balls, eight rounds for CTG caliber .30 the CNTs until they realized that they September 12-18, 2020 |

21

were just manipulated by the said terror The project, he added, will benefit group. the former rebels (FRs) who are now with their families and communities,

“After years of suffering from the the Indigenous People (IPs) and other hands of the CNTs, the people finally sectors in the different towns of Agusan disowned and cut their support to said del Norte. group making it hard now for the CNTs to enter in the said village,” Paulo said.

“This program will also be implemented in Sitio Bulak and will be

He also thanked the local successful if supported by the residents,” government unit (LGU) of Buenavista, Paulo said. the barangay officials and the other stakeholders for their continued support He urged the residents of Sitio in the efforts to drive out the remaining Bulak to continue their support to CNTs in Agusan del Norte. the government and the Army and cooperate with the implementation

“With the support of the local of different peace and development government and other stakeholders, interventions of the government. numerous plans and programs will soon be established in the area,” Paulo said.

“This is what we promised you before – that when you abandon the

Among the efforts he highlighted CNT movement, the government will is the implementation of the People pour all its resources to uplift your socioEmpowerment in Agriculture for economic life conditions and bring Community Enhancement or PEACE genuine peace and development Project that will promote increased right into your homes and community,” agricultural production through organic Paulo said. (CMO Officer, 23IB PA/PIA farming.

Agusan del Norte)

22

| September 12-18, 2020

Border frontliners sa Agusan del Norte binigyan ng parangal

By Nora C. Lanuza

Bilang pagkilala sa mga kontribusyon ng mga frontliners na nakadestino sa mga borders ng probinsya ng Agusan del Norte, biningyang parangal ng Provincial Peace and Order Council o PPOC sa pangunguna ni Gobernador Dale B. Corvera sa pamamagitan ng pagbibigay ng plaque of appreciation at cash incentives sa mga frontliners upang mas lalo pa silang maging pursigido na magtrabaho.

Nanininawala din si Gob. Corvera na hindi lamang oras ang kanilang ibinigay kundi sakripisyo upang mabigyan ng kaligtasan ang mga Agusanons sa banta hindi lamang ng coronavirus disease 2019 o COVID-19 pati na rin sa mga masasamang elemento.

lalo pa naming pagbutihin ang aming Serbisyo,” tugon ni PCapt. Ometer.

Kaya’t nanawagan si Capt.

Ometer sa kapwa frontliners na ipakita at hindi mawalan ng pag-asa kahit sa hinaharap na pandemya dahil meron tayong komunidad na nangangailan ng ating serbisyo.

“Binigyan namin sila ng pagkilala upang mas lalo pa nilang pagbutihin Nagpasalamat din ang ang kanilang Trabaho at ma-inspired,” municipal disaster risk reduction and ayon kay Gob. Corvera. management officer ng Kitcharao na si Roberto Calubag, Jr. kung saan

Hindi rin inasahan ni Police nakabase din ang isa pang provincial Captain Jennifer Ometer, ang chief border sa pagkilalang ito. of police ng bayan ng Carmen, kung saan nakabase ang regional border Matatandaang kamakailan lang checkpoint ang pagkilala sa kanilang mahigit 800 frontliners din ang binigyang kontribusyon. pasasalamant ng provincial disaster risk reducgtion and management

“Hindi ko lubos akalain na sa council bilang pagpugay sa kanilang taos-puso nating serbisyo ay bibigyan kadakilaan. (NCLM/PIA Agusan del tayo ng recognition, dahil ditto mas Norte) September 12-18, 2020 |

23

600 households benefit from RCSP services in Agusan Norte town By 1Lt. Roel T. Maglalang

Joint efforts of the 23rd Infantry “Masigasig� Battalion (23rd IB), Philippine Army the local government unit (LGU) of Las Nieves and the team members from the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) delivered basic services to more than 600 households in Barangay Casiklan, Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte on Tuesday, Sept.

15, 2020.

Las Nieves Vice-Mayor Larry Bautista who represented Mayor Avelina S. Rosales led the RCSP team during the activity with the support

24

| September 12-18, 2020

of the Municipal Social Welfare and Development (MSWD), the Municipal Health Office (MHO) and the members of the Municipal Peace and Order

Council (MPOC) in the area.

The RCSP team plays a vital role in the peace and development efforts of the government to communities particularly in Barangay Casiklan, one of the identified conflict-affected areas in Las Nieves but was recently declared as a cleared area by the Army. Through the RCSP, the needs and the situation of the local populace in Casiklan is directly bridged to the LGU and the national government agencies. The RCSP also strengthens the barangay-based institutions and sectoral organizations to engage in participatory issue resolutions and the different peace and order interventions.

During the activity, the 600 households in Casiklan were provided with free medical services, birth registration, and blood donation activity. The children in the community were also given free haircuts by the members of the “Pogi Team” of 23rd IB.

Bautista said.

He added that the LGU of Las Nieves is always ready to perform its duties and responsibilities to address the root causes of insurgency in the area.

Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, Commander of the 23rd IB, urged the people of Casiklan to unite and support the efforts of the government to bring peace and development to their barangay.

Paulo emphasized that any support given to the communist rebels will be used to destroy communities and the livelihood of the people as the rebels continue to engage in terroristic

“RCSP is one of the national activities. government’s mechanisms in He also assured the people of implementing the Whole-of-Nation Approach to peacefully end the local Casiklan of the continuing support communist armed conflict which was of the 23rd IB to all their peace and endeavors.

(CMO institutionalized by President Rodrigo development Roa Duterte’s Executive Order No. 70,” Officer, 23IB PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)

In his message, Vice Mayor Bautista thanked the members of the RCSP and its core team for their untiring effort to launch the activity.

September 12-18, 2020 |

25

PWDs, pedicab drivers receive aid from PNP

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

Amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the Agusan del Sur Police Provincial Office (ADSPPO) continues to extend assistance to various sectors affected by the crisis.

The members of the Agusan Media Club distributed relief goods to the persons with disability (PWDs) and pedicab drivers.

“We are thankful that we were given due attention. Our group is also thankful to the PNP for helping us,” said Arcadio Duero, president of San Francisco Trisikad Association, Inc.

“They intentionally visited us here for the distribution of relief goods. Thank you also to the media,” added Achilles Bayano, PWD from Brgy. Pisaan, San Francisco, Agusan del Sur.

26

| September 12-18, 2020

Police Senior Superintendent Ringo Zarzoso said, this has been their regular activity and many are benefiting from the different barangays of the province.

“Life is really hard during this time of the pandemic. It’s a good thing that we are still able to help our fellow. That is part of our program because we all need to help those in need,” bared Zarzoso.

Apart from the distribution of relief goods, the PNP and media also shared ice cream to the children in the area.

(JPG/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

321 NPA supporters, members affirm allegiance to government By 1Lt. Percival Carido

Some 321 former mass supporters and members of the New People’s Army (NPA) withdrew their support to the terrorist group as they affirmed their allegiance to the government during the Peace Rally and Mass Withdrawal Ceremony on September 15, 2020 at the Esperanza National High School Gymnasium, Poblacion, Esperanza, this province.

The former mass supporters and members composed of 29 regular members, 80 Militiang Bayan members, 12 supporters, 151 mass organization members, 23 contacts, and 26 couriers with a total of 321 Communist Party of

the Philippines - New People’s Army - National Democratic Front (CPPNPA-NDF) lie-low members, mass organization members and supporters of Guerilla Front (GF) 88, GF89 and GF4B of Northern Central Mindanao Regional September 12-18, 2020 |

27

Command (NCMRC), all are residents of Esperanza, Agusan del Sur, voluntarily withdrew their support to the CPP-NPANDF and subsequently denounced the atrocities and exploitation of the terrorist group in their community.

“Daku akong pagmahay sa akong pag-uban sa walhong grupo, ug karon gusto na kong mupahulay ug magpuyo nga malinawon uban ang

28

| September 12-18, 2020

akong pamilya (I regret joining the leftleaning group, and now I wanted to live peacefully with my family)�, alias Rey said, a former UGMO member.

The mass withdrawal was made possible by the Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC) headed by Mayor Leonida M. Manpatilan, through the effort of the 26th Infantry (Ever Onward)

Battalion, Philippine Army in conducting its Community Support Program (CSP) in conflict-affected areas (ConAAs) in the said municipality which aims to help the community identify their common issues and to bring to the attention of the local government unit (LGU) for appropriate actions.

Governor Santiago B. Cane, Jr., commended the LGU-Esperanza and the 26IB for their collaborative efforts with the PTF-ELCAC in ending insurgency towards a more peaceful and more developed ADS. “The Philippines has only one flag, the burning of the communist flag signifies your submission to the government. We only have one government, we only have one flag, we only have one Philippines, and we have that democracy. With that, I commend the partnership of LGU-Esperanza and the 26IB for their persistence in our quest for peace and development in our province,” he said.

Mayor Manpatilan, said the presence of these terrorists is a threat to the security as they instill fear to people in the communities and kill civilians who contradict their propaganda.

“But today, I am happy to commend all of you for coming back to the fold of law without fear and hesitation,” she added.

Lt. Col. Reynald Romel A. Goce, Commanding Officer of 26IB, also

The LGU-Esperanza also granted lauded the LGU-Esperanza for its financial assistance to former NPA untiring support to the unit’s Civil Military members during the said activity. Operations (CMO) activities. Likewise, “We are now peace partners and rest he gratefully welcomed the 321 former assured that the LGU-Esperanza will help mass supporters and members in their you in providing what you need to start fearless decision to go back to the a new life,” Manpatilan underscored. mainstream society. “We sympathize with the NPA supporters who have

The national government already realized the deception of this expedites the implementation terrorist group, that is why our doors of Executive Order No. 70 of the remain open in accepting them back “Institutionalizing the Whole of the Nation to the fold of the law,” he bared.

Approach to End Local Communist Armed Conflict” asserting that all “We re very grateful that due government agencies shall prioritize to our continuous effort in reaching the delivery of basic services and social out to our fellow citizens who support development in conflict-affected areas the NPA, they are now able to realize and vulnerable communities purposely the futility of their armed struggle and to elevate poverty situation which has geared with the support of our local become the root cause of enemy government. We are encouraging all recruitment and manipulation of the other supporters and members of NPA CTGs. to surrender now because you deserve a better life,” Lt. Col. Goce added.

Meanwhile, Agusan del Sur (CMO, 26IB/PIA-Agusan del Sur) September 12-18, 2020 |

29

U.S. Embassy, DepEd launch new teacher training program

The United States (U.S.) Embassy in the Philippines, in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd), launched on Monday, Sept.

14, a new virtual series for teachers and educators in support of the country’s transition to digital learning during the COVID-19 pandemic.

DepEd Undersecretary for Curriculum and Instruction Diosdado San Antonio and U.S. Embassy Public Affairs Counselor Philip Roskamp opened the series in front of a virtual audience of more than 3,600 education administrators.

participants will share their knowledge and skills with other teachers and administrators across the Philippines.

The new series was designed by a team of three American English Language Specialists in the United States to meet the specific needs of

More than 8,000 teachers and Filipino teachers and students. administrators are expected to participate in the live series, which The specialists, who developed will run from September 14 through the curriculum based on the education October 23. After the series concludes, standards in the Philippines, will deliver

30

| September 12-18, 2020

a series of virtual classes on the multiple rare opportunity to learn from their learning modalities. specialists on how best we could provide language teaching, particularly in the

Course content includes time of COVID-19. I commend the guidance, methodology, instructional Bureau of Learning Delivery and the materials, and resources to assist with National Educators Academy of the the delivery of online and other non- Philippines for your efforts in partnering face-to-face classroom instruction, with our generous stakeholders and critical for continuing the education benefactors. My sincerest gratitude to of Filipino students during the our partners from the U.S. Embassy for pandemic. making sure that our fellow language teachers will be capacitated.”

During his remarks at the program launch, U.S. Embassy Public Affairs As part of the project, an Counselor Philip Roskamp explained, on-demand resource library for “We are extremely honored to partner teachers and administrators is also with DepEd’s Bureau of Learning being developed for professional Delivery and the National Educators development purposes, with a viewing Academy of the Philippines on this guide, activities, and discussion important program. American English questions for local learning communities.

Language Specialists will use the latest instructional techniques to best support The project is sponsored by the U.S. Filipino students’ learning during the Embassy’s Regional English Language COVID-19 pandemic.”

Office, which works with DepEd, education administrators, and teachers

Usec. San Antonio further stated, to enhance English language learning.

“We are very grateful for the generosity (U.S. Embassy in the Philippines/PIAof the team in making possible this Surigao del Norte) September 12-18, 2020 |

31

113 FRs at tagasuporta tumanggap ng cash assistance mula sa E-CLIP sa SurSur

Nasa 113 dating rebelde at tagasuporta ng teroristang New People’s Army (NPA) na taga Surigao del Sur ang nakatanggap ng pinansyal na tulong at pangkabuhayan mula sa Task Force Balik-Loob Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program o TFBL-ECLIP. Isinasagawa ang nasabing paggawad noong Martes, Setyembre 15, 2020 sa Governor Vicente T. Pimentel Jr Social Hall, Capitol Hills, Telaje ng lungsod.

Umabot sa P80,000.00 ang tulong pinansyal at pangkabuhayan ang tinanggap ng bawat benepisyaryo.

Nasa P65,000.00 ang cash assistance at pangkabuhayan, P10,000.00 mula

32

| September 12-18, 2020

sa Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), P5,000.00 at food packs mula sa Probinsya ng Surigao del Sur. Nagdepende naman sa renumeration ng mga baril ang

halaga na kanilang matatanggap na former rebels mula sa Department of kanilang isinuko.

Health (DOH), DSWD, at Department of Agriculture (DA).

‘Certificate of Scholarship Commitment’ naman ang iginawad Sa panayam kay Rolie (di tunay ng Technical Education and Skills na pangalan), dating membro ng Development Authority (TESDA) na makakaliwang grupo, inamin niya nagkakahalaga ng P1,039,609.60. na dumanas siya ng sobrang hirap at Makapag avail ang mga ito ng laging nanganganib para sa kanyang scholarship packages, at libreng kaligtasan tuwing may operasyon. pagsasanay ng mga sumusunod: Aniya, pinagkaitan din silang mabisita ang kanilang pamilya o kamag-anak.

• 64 slots for Driving NC II,

• 23 slots for Tailoring NC II, and

“Malaki ang pasasalamat ko sa

• 25 slots for Electrical Installation kasalukuyang administrasyon, dahil and Maintenance NC II. hindi pinagkait sa amin ang karapatan na mamuhay ng normal kahit na sa

Bukod pa dito, nakatanggap din ginawang naming paglabag, hindi ang mga benepisyaryo ng hygiene pa rin kami pinabayaan (Daku kayo kits, rubber boots, drugs, and medicine, kog pasalamat sa kasamtangan nga sleeping kits, seed packages ang mga administrasyon tungod kay wala kami September 12-18, 2020 |

33

ng mga teroristang NPA. Hinikayat din ng opisyal ang mga nagbalik loob na patuloy na kukumbinsihin ang kanilang mga kasamahan na patuloy pa sa kasalukuyang sumusuporta sa mga rebeldeng NPA na magbalik loob na at mamuhay nang normal.

Inihayag din ni General Centino kung bakit patuloy pa ang kilusan ng makakaliwang grupo sa kadahilanan na may nakukuha pa rin itong suporta mula sa mga iilang negosyante, pulitiko, at sektor na kaanib nito sa pamamagitan ng extortion. Dito umano nakapag-generate ng panibagong myembro, at bagong armas ang mga ito.

gihikawan sa among katungod nga mamuyo og normal nga kinabuhi luyo sa kalapasan nga amo nabuhat, wala gihapon kami gipasagdan),� sabi niya.

Sa mensahe ni 4th Infantry Division Commander Major General Andres Centino, ipinaliwanag niya kung gaano ka sensiro ang administrasyon ni Pangulong Duterte para maresolba ang insurhensiya sa bansa sa pamamagitan ng mga programa nito at bahagi umano dito ang lahat ng sector pati na ang mga lokal na opisyales. Ang ginawang pag aklas ng suporta ng mga masa at pagsurender ng mga myembro nito ay nakatutulong sa kasalukuyang sitwasyon na nagpapahina sa pwersa

34

| September 12-18, 2020

Sinuportahan naman ito ni Gobernador Alexander Pimentel ang sinabi ni Major General Centino na wala silang mapapala kung patulay silang susuporta at aanib sa mga teroristang NPA. Ang kasalukuyang administrasyon ayun pa kay Gob. Pimentel, handang tumulong sa lahat ng magbalik loob, upang mamuhay ng normal. Ang E-CLIP ay isang programa ng administrasyon ni Presidente Duterte na ipinagkaloob sa mga former rebels para makapagsimula ng bagong buhay, sabi pa niya.

Dahil sa naranasang krisis dala ng coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) na pandemya, nagpaabot naman ng kanyang mensahe sa pamamagitan ng video si Cabinet Secretary Karlo Alexie Nograles bilang panauhing pandangal at tagapagsalita sa nasabing okasyon, at si DILG Caraga Regional Director Lilibeth Farmacion. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)

MINDANAO NEWS

Mindanao Poultry, Livestock: Agusan Norte sets 5,000-has. for sorghum growing program

The province of Agusan del Norte has joined the Mindanao Sorghum Development Program initiated by the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) with a committed production area of about 5,000 hectares.

Agusan del Norte Governor Dale Corvera along with several town mayors of the province met with MinDA officials Wednesday night following a daylong orientation program on Sorghum farming conducted by the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist with the support of the Department of Agriculture in Caraga

36

| September 12-18, 2020

Region.

The orientation was attended by tribal leaders and farmers groups from the different towns of the province.

The Mindanao Sorghum Development Program is pat of the

initiatives of MinDA to produce sufficient earning opportunities for the farmers in his feed materials for Poultry and Livestock in province known for rich and fertile soil.

Mindanao.

MinDA will engage big and

Sorghum is being introduced as a small local feed mill companies and complementary crop to corn which is corporations to enter into a marketing produced only twice a year in many parts agreement with the farmers groups who of Mindanao. will grow Sorghum.

The sufficient supply of feed grains for the feed millers of Mindanao is expected to result in lower feed costs and in the process lower production cost for poultry and livestock growers to make them competitive with imported chicken and pork.

Among the corporations interested to buy Sorghum for their feed formulation are the Aboitiz-owned PILMICO, the CP Foods Philippines and San Miguel Corporation.

Other smaller and independent feed millers have also signified interest

Corvera said he is convinced that in joining the Sorghum Development Sorghum could provide additional income Program. (MinDA)

MinDA eyes establishing seaweed-processing facility

By Prexx Marnie Kate Trozo

The Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) is working on the establishment of “village-level processing facilities” to turn Mindanao’s seaweed industry into a major source of organic fertilizer and producer of poultry and livestock additives, its chief said on Saturday.

In a statement, MinDA Secretary Emmanuel Piñol said the seaweeds industry is one of the commodities they have proposed to be included in the European Union-funded Mindanao Rise Program.

The program’s goal is to capacitate seaweed-growing communities to process their produce into high-value commodities, such as foliar fertilizer, animal feed additives, and probiotics.

September 12-18, 2020 |

37

Using the “complete value chain principle”, Piñol said Mindanao’s seaweed industry could lift many fisherfolks and their families out of poverty and trigger the growth of the region’s economy.

He said MinDA has asked a Filipino inventor and mechanical engineer based in Butuan City to design a prototype of a machine capable of squeezing raw seaweeds.

Engineer Rudy Cane, younger brother of Agusan del Sur Governor Santiago Cane Jr., promised to complete the prototype in two weeks, which in turn, would be tested in Olutanga Island where seaweed farming is a major source of livelihood, Piñol said.

“Cane said the machine he will design could be operated by ordinary folks and could be established in remote communities and could turn the seaweeds into high-value products, which in turn could boost organic farming, especially rice and fruits, and livestock and poultry-raising in Mindanao,” he said.

The Mindanao Development Authority says it is working on the establishment of seaweed processing facilities in the barangay level in an effort to turn Mindanao’s seaweed industry into a major source of organic fertilizer. (PNA file photo)

Seaweeds-based organic fertilizer has been found to increase rice, vegetable, and fruit production by huge amounts while protecting the natural nutritional balance of the soil.

“The use of seaweeds as animal feeds is not new as this was done centuries ago in Ancient Greece and the Icelandic region where forage

Once completed, Piñol said, was scarce during the winter season, it is expected to add value to the according to the literature on seaweeds seaweeds produced by poor fisher uses,” Piñol said. folks, which are currently bought from He recently said interest in the a high of PHP15 to a low of PHP5 per use of seaweeds for animal feeds has kg. been renewed because of health

In the Philippines, seaweeds have and environmental concerns following mainly been used for Carrageenan the results of studies that showed that production, the price of which is cattle fed with seaweeds emit fewer dependent on world market dictates. greenhouse gases. (PNA)

38

| September 12-18, 2020

NATIONAL NEWS

SEC. MARTIN ANDANAR PCOO

NEWS CORNER The Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO), through the Office of the Global Media and Public Affairs, will launch the “Laging Handa Dokyu,” a series of experiential and informational short documentaries highlighting the lives of health care workers and other front-liners, as well as the efforts of the government in combating the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

The docu-series primarily features the different stories and perspectives of those who are fighting the Covid-19 on the front lines, as well as those who fell victim to the virus.

The first episode, entitled “Red Zone”, provides a glimpse of the operations inside a temporary treatment facility at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) Forum.

Aside from featuring the firsthand experiences of the front-liners and the patients inside the quarantine facilities, it explains the isolation strategy and protocols of the government.

40

| September 12-18, 2020

PCOO to launc Covid-19 fron

“PCOO holds an important role in informing the public of the government’s responses, actions, and programs against Covid-19. This task of keeping the public informed has proven to be very crucial. Hence, we have been exerting all our efforts and intensifying our role in this endeavor since the beginning of this pandemic,” PCOO Secretary Martin Andanar said.

Andanar said the new documentary is a fresh addition to the PCOO’s consistent releases of informational materials to instill behavioral change among the public to adapt to the minimum public health standards.

PCOO Assistant Secretary JV Arcena, meanwhile, emphasized the importance of producing content based on the accounts of those behind every effort of the government to respond to and recover from the pandemic.

“We aim to recognize our modernday heroes by showing the bravery and sacrifices of our front-liners that they have to deal with every day, and we hope that by showing this, we would be able to inspire all Filipinos to come together and rise as one to defeat the pandemic,” said Arcena, who is the

ch docu series featuring nt-liners

Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar. File photo

documentary’s executive and production head.

producer aired at 8 p.m. every Saturday through the Presidential Communications (Government of the Philippines)

The succeeding episodes will Facebook page, and other affiliated present the stories of contact tracing and pages. testing efforts, overseas Filipino workers, the swabbing process, developments Media outlets are free to on the country’s participation in clinical use and share the agency’s’ short trials, best practices of some local documentaries. government units, and the experiences of some Covid-19 patients.

Inquiries may be sent through e-mail at pcooglobalmedia@pco.gov.

The short documentary will be ph. (PR) September 12-18, 2020 |

41

Bayanihan 2 to provide gov’t support to affected sectors: Andanar

By Filane Mikee Cervantes

Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar said Friday the country is “well on our way” to strengthen its health care system and provide assistance to the various sectors that have been adversely affected by the pandemic with the signing of the Bayanihan to Recover as One Act.

In a statement, Andanar said the newly-signed law contains a stimulus package plan consisting of PHP140billion worth of regular appropriations and an additional standby fund of PHP25.5 billion that would sustain the government’s “proactive responses” and help the impacted industries recover from the economic downturn caused by the health crisis.

42

| September 12-18, 2020

The affected sectors include agriculture, tourism, transportation, as well as micro, small, and medium enterprises.

“With President Rodrigo Duterte’s signing of the Bayanihan to Recover as One Act or Bayanihan 2, we are well on our way to further intensify our aid and assistance not only to the health

care sector, but also to the affected sectors of agriculture, tourism, and transportation, among others, that were impacted by the Covid-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) pandemic,” he said.

“We consider the Bayanihan 2 crucial in our efforts to gradually reopen the economy, support businesses, and revitalize growth as we make our country resilient to Covid-19 by strengthening our health sector, particularly our

Andanar highlighted the need for health care capacity and pandemic a stimulus package as “we gradually response,” Roque said. reopen our economy to bounce back and to achieve our forecasted growths Under the law, PHP3 billion will be for the coming months and year.” allotted for the procurement of personal

In line with the Duterte administration’s commitment to upholding accountability and transparency in the government, he said the Palace would submit a monthly report to Congress regarding the implementation of the Bayanihan 2 law, especially on public expenditure, until December this year.

“With Bayanihan 2 in place, we are set to heal and recover as one nation as we continue our fight against Covid-19,” Andanar said.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque confirmed in a statement on Friday that Duterte signed the Bayanihan 2 law, which also grants special powers anew to the President to best deal with the pandemic.

protective equipment, face masks, and face shields; PHP4.5 billion for the construction of temporary medical isolation and quarantine facilities and the expansion of government hospital capacity; and PHP13.5 billion for emergency employment and compensation of health workers.

Furthermore, PHP13 billion will be allocated for the cash-for-work program; PHP9.5 billion for assistance to public utility drivers and other programs of the transportation department; PHP6 billion for “individuals in crisis” and other programs of the social welfare department; PHP4 billion for the tourism industry; and PHP4 billion for the education department’s implementation of digital learning.

The Bayanihan to Recover as

“We confirm that President One Act is the second installment of Rodrigo Roa Duterte signed into law the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act the Bayanihan 2 or the Bayanihan to (Bayanihan 1), which gave Duterte Recover As One Act,” Roque said. emergency powers to address the Covid-19 crisis in the country.

He thanked the leaders of both houses of Congress for the swift passage The Bayanihan 1 law expired on of the measure that was ratified in June 25. (PNA) August.

September 12-18, 2020 |

43

Locally-made products prioritized under Bayanihan 2

By Azer Parrocha

Locally-made products will be prioritized in the government’s procurement to help local industries severely affected by the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic, Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles said Saturday night.

Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles

Nograles gave this assurance noting that the recently-signed “Bayanihan to Recover as One Act” or “Bayanihan 2” includes procurement provisions that give preference to locally-made products, including construction materials for government infrastructure projects.

“Our call is buy local, buy Filipino -- suportahan natin ang sariling atin (support our own),” he said over a Facebook live session.

of

44

particularly micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to help save jobs and revive the economy.

“At this point we are talking about how to get our economy back on its feet; one of the best ways is to buy Filipino,” he added.

Nograles, meanwhile, advised the public to report manufacturers taking advantage of the “buy local” campaign by mislabeling their products and passing them off as PhilippineHe emphasized the importance made to the Department of Trade and supporting Filipino businesses, Industry (DTI).

| September 12-18, 2020

“DTI knows what it has to do. It is unfortunate that there are those who do this, pero di dapat sila makalusot. Bawal ang mislabeling (but they shouldn’t be allowed to do this. Mislabeling is not allowed), there are laws against that,” he said.

He welcomed suggestions to properly identify and label Philippinemade products, including agricultural produce, noting that there have been discussions in the government’s Zero Hunger Task Force to label produce so that buyers are informed what regions they come from.

“When it comes to agricultural products, fresh produce, there has to be a way for us to know which region it is from, paraan na rin yan para ipagmalaki ng mga rehiyon ang mga produkto nila (it’s also a way for the regions to take pride in their products),” he said.

able to produce 60 million face masks and 3.2 million pieces of medical-grade coveralls, 6,050 pieces of ventilators, and 60,000 pieces of infrared thermometers per month.

Earlier, the DTI launched the Buy

Nograles earlier urged the public Local, Go Lokal campaign to promote to patronize local food and other patronizing Filipino products and products when going to the markets services. and groceries.

On Friday, President Rodrigo

Not only would they support local Duterte signed into law the Bayanihan farmers and businesses, he said they 2 which provides for a PHP165.5-billion are also less expensive and would help fund to finance the country’s response and recovery interventions intended consumers save money. to mitigate the impact of the Covid-19

The Department of Trade and pandemic.

Industry is also urging institutions The Bayanihan 2 is the second to purchase personal protective equipment (PPE) gears and other installment of the Bayanihan to Heal medical items from local manufacturers. as One Act (Bayanihan 1), which gave Duterte emergency powers to address

Local manufacturers are now the Covid-19 crisis in the country. (PNA) September 12-18, 2020 |

45

House okays disaster resilience dep’t on 2nd reading

By Filane Mikee Cervantes

The House of Representatives on Tuesday approved on second reading a measure creating the Department of Disaster Resilience (DDR), listed as legislative priority of the Duterte administration.

The chamber passed through prepare for and respond to disasters; voice voting House Bill No. 5989, and recover, rehabilitate, and build otherwise known as the proposed forward better after the destruction.”

“Disaster Resilience Act.”

The DDR would still have the

Under the bill, the DDR shall be Office of Civil Defense (OCD) as its the primary government agency core organization, to which will be responsible for “leading, managing, integrated the Climate Change and organizing national efforts to Commission Office, the Health prevent and reduce disaster risks; Emergency Management Bureau

46

| September 12-18, 2020

of the Department of Health (DOH), the Disaster Response Assistance and the Disaster Response Management Bureau of Department of Social Welfare and Development.

Albay Rep. Joey Salceda, a principal author of the measure, said the creation of the DDR will ensure that the country is able to anticipate and proactively respond to emergencies and disasters, which he expects to intensify with worsening climate conditions.

Salceda said the DDR will help the country deal with disasters and emergencies “not as unfortunate incidents whose impacts are beyond our control, but as risks that can be mitigated.” the ad-hoc and primary secretariat-type work of the current National Disaster Risk

“We can no longer deny the fact Reduction and Management Council that climate change is real, that we are (NDRRMC). a volcanically and tectonically active country, and that we face several Salceda said the DDR will lead in the typhoons each year. Disasters are a fact continuous development of strategic, of Philippine life. But we can mitigate holistic and systematic approaches the human and socioeconomic costs to disaster management, including of these disasters. DDR will help ensure prevention, mitigation, preparedness, that we have a full-time agency in response, recovery, and rehabilitation, charge of keeping us strong and ready and anticipatory adaptation strategies, for disasters,” Salceda said. measures, techniques and options.

This year, the DDR was also identified by President Rodrigo Duterte as a priority measure during his fifth State of the Nation Address.

Once implemented, the DDR would be an institutionalized agency coordinating national response to disasters and emergencies, replacing

“Fortune favors the prepared.

We cannot avoid typhoons and other calamities that come with our geography. But we can keep the risks low and the damage controlled. That is resilience: being able to achieve meaningful progress despite natural and external adversities,” Salceda said.

(PNA) September 12-18, 2020 |

47

P300-M allotted for displaced teachers under Bayanihan 2

By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora

A total of PHP300 million in subsidies and allowances have been allotted for displaced teachers and nonteaching personnel under the newly-enacted Bayanihan to Recover as One Act (Bayanihan 2), Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said Tuesday.

“Sa mga gurong nagtatanong, mayroon pong ayuda na nakalaan sa inyo. Ito po ay PHP300 million na subsidies at allowances (To all our concerned teachers, there would be aid allocated for you. There are PHP300 million in subsidies and allowances),” he said during a virtual presser.

fund the country’s response against coronavirus disease.

Aside from the cash assistance to displaced teachers, Bayanihan 2 also provides PHP600 million cash aid to qualified students in public and private schools affected by the quarantine measures.

Roque said beneficiaries also include part-time faculty members According to the Department of from both private and public schools as well as those in state universities and Education, 748 out of 14,435 private schools nationwide are not operating colleges. for the school year 2020-2021, affecting

President Duterte last week signed some 3,233 teachers and 40,345 into law the Bayanihan 2 which would learners as of Sept. 9. (PNA)

48

| September 12-18, 2020

PRRD asks private hospitals to allot more beds for Covid patients

By Jelly Musico

President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday night appealed to the private hospitals to increase their allotted beds for coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) patients.

Duterte made his appeal during his talk to the people after meeting the core members of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging TALK TO THE PEOPLE. President Rodrigo Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) at the Duterte talks to the people after holding a meeting with the Inter-Agency Task Force Malago Clubhouse in Malacañang.

for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) core members at the Malago Clubhouse in Malacañang on Monday (Sept. 14, 2020). Duterte appealed to the private hospitals to increase their beds allotted for coronavirus disease 2019 patients.

(Presidential photo by Ace Morandante)

“What struck my attention is this appeal to private hospitals to increase the number of beds dedicated to Covid patients. I hope you can set aside more,” Duterte said after listening to the IATF’s report on Covid-19 response. because of the prior infection that was not detected during the height of the

Duterte made his request to the pandemic,” Duterte said. private hospitals as the Department of Health (DOH) logged additional 4,699 As of Sept. 13, the DOH said it has Covid-19 infections that increased 21,500 total bed capacity dedicated the country’s tally to 265,888 with 259 to Covid-19 patients. deaths.

Occupied are about 50 percent

“I hope you can add [to the number of 1,900 intensive care unit beds; 44 of beds] because still, the numbers are percent of 13,700 isolation beds; and increasing. The infections vary. In some 48 percent of 5,900 ward beds. cases, and in some provinces or cities, there’s a fast recovery rate, while others About 27 percent of 2,200 are lagging behind, and probably this is ventilators are in use. (PNA)

50

| September 12-18, 2020

DOH lauds RITM for testing over 200K individuals for Covid-19

By Ma. Teresa Montemayor

The Department of Health (DOH) on Monday lauded the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM) for having tested a total of 254,846 samples corresponding to 214,209 unique individuals as of September 11.

“As of September 11, 2020, the country has conducted a total of 3,040,790 tests on 2,859,987 unique individuals, and has recorded an average daily testing capacity of 36,857 within the last seven days. The RITM contributes 8.46 percent of this testing capacity,” DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said in a virtual media forum.

“Sila rin po ang nagba-validate ng testing methodologies na bago dito sa ating bansa at meron din silang ginagawa na ibang (They also validate testing methodologies

According to the latest DOH that are new in our country and they data, the RITM has conducted an also do other) tasks for the country average of 1,803 samples per day in pertaining to other diseases,” she the past seven days. said.

Citing that the RITM continues to support the government’s efforts to increase its Covid-19 testing capacity, Vergeire said the institute also capacitates other laboratories so they can become licensed Covid-19 testing laboratories.

With the RITM’s achievement, Vergeire said the “Philippines now boasts the highest testing capacity among the countries in the Southeast Asian region, even topping richer neighboring countries such as Japan and Singapore”. (PNA) September 12-18, 2020 |

51

Go leads unveiling of 82nd Malasakit Center

Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go (File photo)

The country’s 82nd Malasakit Center was launched on September 11 at the Southern Isabela Medical Center, a coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19)-designated hospital in Santiago City, Isabela.

In his speech via video call, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go explained that Malasakit Centers are one-stop shops that host concerned government agencies with programs that provide financial and medical assistance to Filipino patients, particularly the poor and indigent.

ninyong pangkalusugan. Para po ito sa lahat ng mga Pilipino, lalo na ang mga mahihirap na nangangailangan ng tulong sa pampagamot. Sisiguraduhin natin na pagdating sa serbisyo mula sa gobyerno, sila ang ating uunahin palagi (Approach Malasakit Center for your medical needs. This is for every Filipino, particularly the indigent patients who

“Lapitan ninyo lang ang Malasakit are in need of medical assistance. We Centers para sa mga pangangailangan will make sure that they will be given

52

| September 12-18, 2020

priority),” he added.

“Ngayon na may Covid-19, mas lalong kailangan po ang Malasakit

The Malasakit Center is the second Center para tumulong sa mga in Isabela and the third in Region 2 kababayan natin (Now that there is (Cagayan Valley).

Covid-19 pandemic, the more we need this Malasakit Center to help our

Go called for special attention countrymen),” he said. to the community’s most vulnerable members and urged authorities to The Malasakit Centers Act of prioritize the welfare of poor and 2019 was signed into law by President indigent patients.

Rodrigo Duterte last Dec. 3, 2019.

Meanwhile, Go issued a call for

“Ang Malasakit Center po ay cooperation with the government’s walang pulitika, basta Pilipino ka, lalo investigation into the allegations of na kung poor and indigent patient ka, widespread corruption in Philippine qualified ka po sa Malasakit Center Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth), (Malasakit Center is not about politics, to ensure conviction of culprits and if you are Filipino, especially if you are improved services for all Filipinos. poor and indigent, you are qualified to go to Malasakit Center),” said Go.

“Bagama’t nakakalungkot po, sa nakaraang araw ay naging issue

He appealed to the hospital ang PhilHealth. Alam ko po na marami administrators, doctors, and other naman na nagtatrabaho sa PhilHealth health workers to look for the welfare of na honest at may dedikasyon na the poor and indigent patients. magserbisyo sa ating mga kababayan (Though it’s sad that we have this issue

“Ito po ‘yung panahon na hirap in PhilHealth. I know a lot of honest and na hirap na sila at humihingi ng tulong. dedicated people working with the Unahin natin at palaging protektahan PhilHealth and dedicated to serve our ang kapakanan nila (This is the time people),” Go said. that they are facing difficulties and asking for help. Let’s prioritize them and He said every cent the people protect their welfare),” he said. pay in PhilHealth should be properly used particularly now that the country

The Malasakit Center, a brainchild is battling pandemic. of Go, is a one-stop shop wherein patients may seek financial and medical “Hindi po katanggap-tanggap assistance from various government sa mga Pilipino na may masasayang agencies, namely the Department of na pera at ayaw kong dumating sa Health, Department of Social Welfare punto na tatanggi na ang ospital dahil and Development, Philippine Health wala nang pera ang PhilHealth (It’s Insurance Corporation and Philippine unacceptable to the Filipinos that there Charity Sweepstakes Office. are wasted funds and we don’t want to September 12-18, 2020 |

53

come to the point that hospitals will no nurses and other healthcare workers in longer accept patients because there the public sector. are no more funds),” he added.

Earlier, Go also pushed for the

The senator likewise called for immediate implementation of a solidarity and compassion among Supreme Court decision to finally Filipinos to ease the burden on medical increase the minimum salary grade of front-liners amid the ongoing Covid-19 government nurses 18 years after a law pandemic. He thanked front-liners providing such increase was enacted. for their sacrifices and vowed full government support for the nation’s Go reiterated that the government health sector. must ensure the full implementation of the Universal Health Care Act. He also

As chair of the Senate Committee said that Congress must provide and on Health and Demography, Go co- ensure sufficient funding for healthcare authored and supported the passage of in the 2021 budget to help Filipinos the Salary Standardization Law 5, which access quality medical services further raised the salaries of government especially amid the ongoing Covid-19 civilian personnel, including doctors, pandemic. (PR)

Workers displaced by Covid-19 urged to get free skills retooling

Workers displaced by the lingering coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) crisis are being encouraged to avail of the government’s free skills retooling programs so they can transition to new jobs, or put up micro-enterprises.

Aniceto Bertiz III, deputy directorgeneral for partnerships and linkages of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), said the agency has a wide range of highly specialized courses meant to enable laid off workers to find new employment or self-employment opportunities.

54

| September 12-18, 2020

“Aircraft maintenance technicians who lost their jobs, for instance, might want to venture into automotive or heavy equipment servicing, while separated restaurant food servers might want to go into home-based bread and pastry production,” Bertiz said.

Bertiz, a former member of Congress representing the ACTS-OFW Coalition of Organizations, said learners can take their newly acquired practical skills wherever they decide to enlist in the Balik Probinsya Program “or look for jobs overseas.”

He urged those aspiring to gain “new applied and employable skills” to visit the TESDA website, which also has a listing of the nearest training center offering their desired courses.

TESDA also has courses available via remote or distance learning, Bertiz pointed out.

“We have ample funding for our programs, and we should be able to serve a greater number of apprentices, as the government is readying even more money for 2021,” Bertiz said.

In the 2021 national budget endorsed by President Rodrigo Duterte to Congress, Bertiz said the government is investing in TESDA a total of PHP13.5 billion in new appropriations, including PHP3.6 billion for the Training for Work Scholarship Program; PHP2.9 billion for the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Program; PHP1.5 billion for the Special Training for Employment Program; and PHP1 billion for the Tulong Trabaho Fund.

The Training for Work Scholarship Program provides courses designed to qualify apprentices for jobs in agrifishery, agri-business, agro-industrial, information technology-business process management, semiconductor

and electronics, and other priority manufacturing industries, logistics, general infrastructure, as well as new and emerging sectors.

The Special Training for Employment Program promotes community-based specialty skills training, primarily for those belonging to indigent families under the National Household Targeting System for Poverty Reduction and families reliant on the informal economy.

The Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Program gives tuition and other forms of subsidy to students enrolled in accredited technical vocational schools.

The Tulong Trabaho Fund supports innovative skills training based on evolving and specified industry demands as well as critical competency shortages. (TESDA PR) September 12-18, 2020 |

55

EDITORIAL BOARD Executive Editor

ABNER M. CAGA Associate Editor

FRYAN E. ABKILAN Managing Editor

NORA CL MOLDE Copy Editor

VENUS LIM GARCIA Layout Artists

RONNIE E. MADANGUIT JOHN CHARLES B. MALAZARTE Contributors

JENNIFER P. GAITANO Agusan del Sur

NIDA GRACE B. TRANQUILAN Surigao del Sur

SUSIL D. RAGAS

Surigao del Norte/Dinagat Islands

DOREEN MARIELLE N. ROSALES Regional Office

ALLAN BIWANG, JR. 1LT. PERCIVAL CARIDO FILANE MIKEE CERVANTES 1LT. ROEL T. MAGLALANG RHEA C. MENDEZ MA. TERESA MONTEMAYOR JELLY MUSICO AZER PARROCHA JOYCE ANN L. ROCAMORA JETT MOLECH G. SUBABA PREXX MARNIE KATE TROZO SDN-PROV’L. AGRICULTURE OFFICE NEDA CARAGA, CSU-ITSO CMO OFFICER, 23IB, 26IB PA U.S. EMBASSY, DA-PHILMECH PNA, TESDA Business Managers

ZARINA O. LASTRA MARIESH F. CELEDEÑA MAY AMOR O. ALABADO Photographer

ROBESPIERRE C. TRADIO RUDOLF BONNIN E. SANICO

Regional Office Jose Rosales Avenue, Butuan City piacaraga@gmail.com;

pia_caraga@yahoo.com.ph

(085) 341-5285;

(085) 815-1991

Philippine Information Agency Caraga

@PIACaraga

Information Centers AGUSAN DEL NORTE Jose Rosales Avenue, Butuan City

(085) 815-1991

pia.northagusan@gmail.com

PIA Agusan del Norte

AGUSAN DEL SUR Provincial Government Center, Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur

0917-723-3455

pia.agusandelsur@yahoo.com.ph

PIA Agusan del Sur

SURIGAO DEL NORTE/DINAGAT ISLANDS Parrucho corner Magallanes St., Surigao City

(086) 826-9450

piasurigao@gmail.com

PIA Surigao del Norte; PIA Dinagat Islands

SURIGAO DEL SUR Old DPWH Bldg., Telaje, Tandag City

(086) 211-3353

piasurigaosur@gmail.com;

sds_pia@yahoo.com.ph

PIA Surigao del Sur