Caraga InFocus – September 3-9, 2022

Caraga Volume V1, No. 36 September 3-9, 2022

INFOCUS

ARTICLES

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REGIONAL NEWS

Fertilizer Discount Subsidy for Corn and Cassava Farmers Rolls Out in Caraga Region

PROVINCIAL NEWS Gov’t Troops Continues to Empower Youth in AgNor PPOC AgNor supports NCPW celeb, distributes gift, food packs Cong. Corvera bats for one law enforcement agency to keep record on dangerous drugs cases TWMC kinilala ang mga stakeholders sa kanilang kontribusyon sa Taguibo watershed

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23 DA fertilizer discount voucher reaches 10k Caraga rice farmers Port Cops, Plant Quarantine Agents Seizes Smuggled Onions at Surigao Port UNICEF, CFSI tap DepEd for humanitarian project in Siargao DTI Dinagat Islands conducts 2nd Tatak Dinagat Provincial Trade Fair 2022 Surigao Norte guv eyes provincial ‘Balay Silangan’ Mga sundalong nakatalaga sa Surigao Norte asintado laban sa terorismo 16 CSU OJT completed 240 hrs at DENR, CENROBislig

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PAWA benefits goat production project from CNC in Carascal town LGU Bislig City, COUSAB launches activities for month-long 22nd Charter Day Celeb DPWH finishes 4-story 20-classroom building DSWD releases Educational Assistance to CarCanMadCarLan students 1502nd CDC new Director assumes post DOLE prioritizes BOSH Trainings for MSMEs in AgSur TESDA-ADS releases scholarship allowance to 15 FRs in AgSur

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NATIONAL NEWS Marcos thanks Pinoys in Singapore for support in polls PBBM secures over $8-B in business deals from Indonesia trip PBBM taps Indonesia for fertilizer supply; cites extensive talk on PPP with Widodo PBBM: More Indonesian investors keen on doing business in PH PBBM commits to make PH conducive to investments; vows to create more jobs

COVID-19 NEWS Optional wearing of face masks outdoors thumbed down PH daily average of Covid-19 cases down 10% PH detects over 600 add’l cases of Omicron BA.5 subvariant

COVER

CONTENTS

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SSS-RACE Team visited nine establishments in Tandag City By: Nida Grace P. Barcena

remitting their employee’s contributions to ensure coverage of benefits and privileges.

The Social Security System-Tandag Branch, headed by Benigno J. Dagani Jr. successfully conducted the Run After Contribution Evaders (RACE) in Tandag City today, September 7, 2022, graced by Social Security Commissioner Atty. Ricardo L. Moldez, and SS Commissioner Jose Julio.

The Press Conference was held earlier on the same day as awareness

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drive and strengthening remittance compliance of employers and employees. Officials from the SSS Mindanao North Legal Department, and Operations Group were also present to answer some queries about the process of dealing with employers with delinquency.

Some nine (9) establishments with delinquent employers

were visited by the RACE team. The visitation conducted was accompanied by personnel from the Philippine National Police, Radyo PilipinasTandag, and the Philippine Information Agency.

Meanwhile, based on the Republic Act No. 11199 or the Social Security Act of 2018, employers should register their business to SSS, report their employees within 30 days from the first day they reported for work, maintain true accurate records and submit to SSS for payroll audit, and remit the correct amount of employees contributions regularly. (PIASurigao del Sur)

The conduct of RACE primarily intends to remind the delinquent employers of their legal obligation of

Caraga Infocus • September 3-9, 2022

Caraga Infocus • September 3-9, 2022

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News Briefs A four-storey, 20-classroom building is now complete and ready to be occupied by pupils from Grades 1 to 6 of Falcon Memorial Elementary School (FMES) in Tago, Surigao del Sur, as face-to-face classes formally opened by the Department of Education last August 22, 2022, two years after suspension due to COVID-19 pandemic. xx

The officials from the Social Security System (SSS) San Francisco, Agusan del Sur Branch and Northern Mindanao Division, recognized the active support and participation of the team from San Francisco Municipal Police Station, Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Agusan del Sur Information Center, and media partners in the province, during conduct of Run After Contributions Evaders (RACE) Campaign in the said municipality. The SSS officials also handed over to them certificate of recognition.

“The State shall protect the nation’s marine wealth in its archipelagic waters, territorial sea, and exclusive economic zone,” as stated by Proclamation No. 316 signed by former president Rodrigo Roa Duterte which also declares the month of September as Maritime and Archipelagic Nation Awareness Month” or MANA Mo. The Department of Agriculture (DA) Caraga through the Regional Corn Program holds a distribution caravan on the Fertilizer Discount Subsidy for corn and cassava farmers in identified areas in Caraga Region.

The project aims to sustain the fertilizer application of farmer-beneficiaries and increase the yield level of corn and cassava amid the surging and volatile prices of fertilizers.

REGIONAL NEWS

During the regional launch, 217 corn and cassava farmers in Butuan City received discount vouchers worth P2,000.

Melody Guimary, OIC of the Field Operations Division disclosed that a total of 1,986 farmers were identified to benefit from the subsidy with an allocation of P3.8 million.

Fertilizer Discount Subsidy for Corn and Cassava Farmers Rolls Out in Caraga Region The Department of Agriculture (DA) Caraga through the Regional Corn Program holds a distribution caravan on the Fertilizer Discount Subsidy for corn and cassava farmers in identified areas in Caraga Region.

This is after the regional

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launching held at DA-Caraga Covered Court in Butuan City on September 1, 2022.

prices of fertilizers.

“We know that we are facing challenges, especially the increasing The project aims to price of fertilizers, so I sustain the fertilizer hope you will use this application of farmerto continue planting,” beneficiaries and Regional Technical increase the yield level of Director for Operations corn and cassava amid Rebecca Reyes Atega the surging and volatile said.

Caraga Infocus • September 3-9, 2022

“We hear your sentiments regarding your difficulty in buying the sufficient rate of fertilizers for your crop due to its current price.

Through this discount voucher, your expenses for fertilizer will be be reduced and there will be an increase in your productivity and profitability,” she stressed.

Guimary explained that the recipients were endorsed by the local government units and were registered in the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA), and part of the identified corn-cassava cluster areas.

Christopher H. Lindo, Chair of the Regional

Agriculture and Fishery Council, encouraged the farmers that despite many challenges, they will continue to support the agriculture industry and become resilient.

Meanwhile, Butuan City Agriculturist Engr.

Pierre Anthony D. Joven assured that the City Government of Butuan will always implement programs in collaboration with DA to uplift the lives of the farmers.

“We are one in your hope that Programs like this will continue, not just now, but also in the future. Please know that our government is working for you,” he said.

Atty. William Christian Dela Cruz of the Office of Representative Jose Aquino II also echoed the support of the congressman for the farmers in the first district comprising the City of Butuan and the Municipality of Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte.

One of the beneficiaries from Barangay San Mateo, Emilio Dapiton

Caraga Infocus • September 3-9, 2022

was grateful to the DA for the assistance he received.

“I will use this P2,000 voucher as an addition to the fertilizers for my next planting. This is a great help,” he said.

Meanwhile, another recipient Sarah Ingking of Manila de Bugabos said that the discount voucher will help her reduce the fertilizer expenses for her corn farm.

The discount vouchers are for one-time use only and may be claimed at any accredited fertilizer merchant.

Under the project, the fertilizer discount voucher will be used by the farmer-beneficiaries in purchasing inorganic fertilizers from accredited merchants.

The distribution is being set for the whole month of September 2022, in coordination with the concerned local government units.

(Lovely Joy Saludez and Aurelius P. Arais, DACaraga/PIA-Caraga)

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Gov't Troops Continues to Empower Youth in AgNor

PROVINCIAL NEWS

The 29th Infantry (Matatag) Battalion, in collaboration with the Municipal Government of Jabonga and other government agencies, molds another batch of young leaders during the three-day Youth Leadership Summit (YLS) held at the Jabonga Municipal Gym. The Youth Leadership Summit is a 3-day camp that aims to gather and empower the youth to become advocates of peace, promote characterbased leadership skills, and uplift their awareness of the roles of the youth in nation building. This training

will later require them to develop the necessary entrepreneurship skills that would be of great help in their capacitybuilding and their understanding of their roles in building a just and peaceful society.

Leadership Summit kay mapaabot gyud sa mga bata nga dili basta-basta marecruit sa pikas kay tudluan man gyud mi. Isa pud dako sad matabang sa mga batan-on pareha nako nga makat-on bahin sa negosyo nga YLS is also a part of the makatabang namo sustainment effort on sustenir sa among mga ending the insurgency panginahanglon. (This to effectively address Youth Leadership Summit the recruitment of youth is very practical because into the armed groups as we are informed about they remain one of the the recruitment scheme most vulnerable sectors of the CPP-NPA-NDF and in society. because of that, we can’t easily be recruited.

“Yang-yang”, one of the Aside from that, this will Youth Leadership Summit really help us young (YLS) participants, said people to learn about in her message, “Okay business, which will help kaayo ning Youth us to sustain our daily

Caraga Infocus • September 3-9, 2022

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needs.)

this training, “Kami sa 29th Infantry Meanwhile, Hon. (Matatag) Battalion ay Napoleon Montero, nagpapasalamat ng sa Municipal Mayor of inyung mga kabataan Jabonga emphasized in dahil wala kami dito sa his inspirational message inyong harapan kung that he extends his wala ang cooperation gratitude to the 29IB for ninyo, malakas ang organizing the youth and adbokasiya namin para that he will support the maiwasan o mapahinto project proposals of the na ang recruitment youth for them to have sa hanay ng mga something that they can kabataan. Sabi nga practice for their young minds to learn the basics ni Dr. Jose Rizal, “Ang kabataan ang pagof becoming a good asa ng Bayan”, malay and effective leader. natin isa na sa inyo ang susunod na mamumuno On the other hand, sa bayan natin ito. Kung Col. Jason M Saldua, ano man ang natutunan Commanding Officer nyo sa 3-day na activity of 29IB emphasized na ito naway maisapuso the importance of

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ninyo at maituro sa iba. “ (We in the 29th Infantry (Matatag) Battalion are thankful for everyone, we are not here in front of you without your cooperation. We have strong advocacy to stop recruitment in the youth sector. As Dr. Jose Rizal said, “The youth is the hope of our nation.”

Perhaps one of you will be the next leader who will lead our nation.

Whatever you learned over the course within three days, please take it seriously and share it with others.) (29th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army/PIA Agusan del Norte)

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PPOC AgNor supports NCPW celeb, distributes gift, food packs In line with the celebration of this year’s National Crime Prevention Week (NCPW) with the theme “Komunidad at Pamahalaan Magtulungan: Krimen, Korupsiyon, at Pandemya Labanan”, the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) of the province of Agusan del Norte chaired by governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante, conducted and supported the different activities in observance of the NCPW. On Monday, living spacers of the Agusan del Norte Provincial Jail after the traditional flag ceremony held at the facility, received gifts and food packs from the council, spearheaded by the Department of the Interior and Local Government Agusan del Norte led by provincial director Ellen Vee P. Chua with the presence of the National Police Commission Caraga regional director Johnson Reyes, Philippine National Police Agusan del Norte represented by PSSg Cheffany T. Reuterez, and other agencies’ representatives.

In her message to the living spacers, director Chua emphasized hope to them.

“There is still hope and a productive life for you after serving your sentences and time in this facility, be positive and trust God,” director Chua said.

Christmas present to them.

Living spacers entertained the council members with dance and song and conducted a bazaar where they displayed their products and sell them as a way to earn for a living.

Director Chua also encouraged living spacers to learn and gain skills while still in the facility, for them to have a living when going out.

The visit of the council to the living spacers, is a kickoff of the provincial NCPW celebration that also served as a ‘Maagang Pamasko’, an early

During the NCPW celebration, the council has visited the Missionary Sisters of Mary, Home for the boys, former rebels housed at the 23rd Infantry Battalion, 29th Infantry Battalion and Halfway House established by the provincial government.

(NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte)

Caraga Infocus • September 3-9, 2022

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Cong. Corvera bats for one law enforcement agency to keep record on dangerous drugs cases Second Congressional District of Agusan del Norte, Representative Dale B. Corvera proposed for a single repository agency of all records on dangerous drugs.

the proliferation of dangerous drugs in the country.

“The disparity in the data poses a major problem in the effective planning and implementation of drug operations in the This is in response to the country. If erroneous significant variances data are indeed used he observed in the as inputs, it follows that data reported by the all formulated plans Philippine National Police and programs based on and Philippine Drug the erroneous data are Enforcement Agency also problematic and during the meeting of irresponsive to our actual the House Committee drug problem. on Dangerous Drugs which are used as basis This could be the reason for analysis and planning for the continuous of programs to combat growth and spread of

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dangerous drugs across the country.” he said.

Corvera, a member of the House Committee on Dangerous Drugs, also emphasized the additional risks posed by unreliable data to the law enforcers on the field.

“Without reliable data, there could be increased risks in the conduct of drug raids, searches, and buy-bust operations, which would endanger the lives of our law enforcers” he added.

(Hala Bira Sa Kongreso/ PIA Agusan del Norte)

Caraga Infocus • September 3-9, 2022

TWMC kinilala ang mga stakeholders sa kanilang kontribusyon sa Taguibo watershed Apat na mga stakeholders ang binigyan ng plaque of recognition ng Taguibo Watershed Management Council (TWMC) sa pangunguna ng Department of Environment and Natural Resources Caraga region dahil sa kanilang kontribusyon upang mapanatiling malinis

at maprotektahan ang Taguibo River, ang isa sa mga water sources ng Butuan City, parte ng Agusan del Norte at Agusan del Sur. Kabilang sa mga nabigyan ng pagkilala ay ang Butuan City Water District (BCWD), Barangay Anticala, AntiCala Pianing

Caraga Infocus • September 3-9, 2022

Tribal Organization, at Barangay Pianing.

Si kagawad at chair ng committee on environment Danilo Dandanon ng Barangay Anticala ay masaya dahil binigyan sila ng pagkilala kahit paman sa akala nilang parte na ng kanilang responsibilidad na protektahan ang

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DA fertilizer discount voucher reaches 10k Caraga rice farmers The Department of Agriculture (DA) – Caraga in coordination with the Local Government Units has distributed the Fertilizer Discount Vouchers to rice farmers in Surigao del Norte and the Province of Dinagat Islands from August 18 until September 9.

The intervention benefited 7,919 rice farmers in the Province of Surigao del Norte and 2,918 in the Province of Dinagat Islands. Each voucher is equivalent to P1,131 per hectare for farms planted with inbred seeds, and P2,262 per hectare for hybrid seeds.

kalikasan lalo na ang Taguibo River Water Resource.

Gayundin si forester Ernie Ruiz ng BCWD, anya ang kanilang ahensya ay patuloy na nagsasagawa at nagpapatupad ng mga programa maging mga proyekto at reforestation upang mapanatiling maayos ang watershed.

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Ayon din kay Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer Forester Achilles Anthony Ebron, ang pagbibigay pagkilala ay isa lamang paraan upang mas lalo pang pagtibayin ang kanilang kooperasyon, pagprotekta sa kalikasan at maingganyo din ang iba pang mga stakeholders upang

gawin din ito.

Dahil sa kontribusyon ng mga stakeholders ay naisama ang Taguibo River sa top 3 sa Recognizing Individuals/ Institutions Towards Vibrant and Enhanced Rivers o RIVERs for Life Awards sa taong 2021.

(NCLM/PIA Agusan del Norte)

Caraga Infocus • September 3-9, 2022

Fertilizer vouchers are given to farmers registered in the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA) and encoded in the National Farmers’ and Fishers’ OnlineRegistry System (NFFRS) or the National Farmers and Fisheries Information System (NFFIS) and availed of rice seeds from the DA-Caraga Rice Program in the current planting season.

Rice Program Focal Person Marisa Garces of DA-Caraga said that the discount voucher can be exchanged for inorganic and organic fertilizers at accredited merchants in

the region. “As the prices of inorganic fertilizers continue to increase, the DA promotes the Balance Fertilization Strategy, which combines inorganic and organic fertilizers,” she added In the Caraga Region, non-Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) areas such as Surigao del Norte and the Province of Dinagat Islands are the focus of the fertilizer support through the DA National Rice Program. This has been emphasized by Regional Executive Director Ricardo M. Oñate, Jr. “Our interventions are strategized to optimize the Department’s funds. This is our approach to aid the rice farmers in non-RCEF areas

Caraga Infocus • September 3-9, 2022

to increase their productivity and ensure food security in their respective provinces, particularly because they are classified as island provinces,” Director Oñate said.

Based on the Philippine Statistics Authority, the average yield of rice production in Surigao del Norte and the Province of Dinagat Islands in 2021 was 3.36 metric tons and 2.72 metric tons, respectively.

As DA-Caraga continues to provide various interventions in the non-RCEF provinces, it is expected to contribute to the increase in production by at least 3-5% for this year.

(Rhea C. Abao, DA-Caraga RAFIS/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

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Port Cops, Plant Quarantine Agents Seizes Smuggled Onions at Surigao Port

At least P6 million worth of smuggled onions were seized at the Port of Surigao City by the Bureau of Plant Industry – Caraga in coordination with port police operatives of the Philippine Ports Authority Port Management Office of Surigao.

In a statement released on Monday, September 05, 2022, the Port Police Division of PMO Surigao said that plant quarantine agents led

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by Agriculture Center Chief Ricardo Blasé, and Agriculture Product Inspector Levi Cornites busted on September 5 around 12,000 kilograms of smuggled yellow onions which were contained in 1,498 bags bound for Tacloban City intended to be shipped via MV FastCat. According to an Inspection Report of the Bureau of Plant Industry, the undocumented yellow onions came from

Cagayan de Oro City loaded in a 10-wheeler truck driven by a certain Danilo Martin together with his assistant identified as Kenneth Depatio, who are both residents of Pasacao town in Camarines Sur. The seized smuggled onions are currently stored at the Port of Surigao Cargo Shed duly-secured by Globalports Surigao Terminals Inc. (PPA- PMO Surigao/PIA- Surigao del Norte)

Caraga Infocus • September 3-9, 2022

UNICEF, CFSI tap DepEd for humanitarian project in Siargao The United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) and Community and Family Services International (CFSI) teamed up with the Department of Education (DepEd) Siargao Island Division for the Child Protection Emergency Response Project (CPERP), a humanitarian-sponsored project.

CPERP is a joint undertaking of DepEd Siargao, CFSI, and UNICEF for the construction of temporary learning space (TLS) and the provision of repairs to 35 validated classrooms throughout Siargao.

To officially launched the project, a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between DepEd Siargao, UNICEF, and CFSI was signed recently by Isy Faingold, education chief of UNICEF Philippines; Steven Muncy, CFSI

headquarters executive director; Mamerto Certifico Jr., CFSI Surigao sub-office head officer; and Dr. Nelia S. Lomocso, DepEd Siargao Schools Division Superintendent.

the humanitarian organizations for the support that DepEd Siargao has been receiving.

“Thank you most sincerely for taking Both the UNICEF and care the needs of CFSI said that the DepEd Siargao. We project forms part truly need partners of their commitment like you whose hearts and support to ensure are overflowing with that the basic right to sympathy, compassion, education of Siargaonon and generosity. Indeed, learners will not be not all is as lucky as we compromised even in are,” she said. (Edgar R. times of emergency.

Gorgonio, Jr., DepEdSiargao/PIA-Surigao del Dr. Lomocso thanked Norte)

Caraga Infocus • September 3-9, 2022

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Surigao Norte guv eyes provincial ‘Balay Silangan’

DTI Dinagat Islands conducts 2nd Tatak Dinagat Provincial Trade Fair 2022 Eight months after the onslaught of Super Typhoon Odette, the local Micro, Small, and Medium Entrepreneurs (MSMEs) demonstrated their resiliency and ingenuity once again by showcasing their products at the Tatak Dinagat Trade Fair held on August 31 to September 2, 2022 at Barangay Sta. Cruz Gymnasium, San Jose town this province.

Mindanao Corporation being the major partner, participated in the product parade. Their participation signaled institutional and government support for the local producers.

A side event - Diskwento Caravan: Balik Eskwela Edition was also held on the first 2 days of the trade fair.

The entire event was made possible The activity highlighted the parade through the partnership with the of products during the launching of Cagdianao Mining Corporation the trade fair during the opening, headed by Resident Mining Engineer, featuring food and non-food products. Christian Jae Gascon, Provincial Cooperative Development Office Representatives from National Line (PCDO), and Provincial Government Agencies, the Provincial and Municipal Office of Dinagat Islands. (DTI- Dinagat Government Units, and Cagdianao Islands/PIA- Dinagat Islands)

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Caraga Infocus • September 3-9, 2022

Surigao del Norte Provincial Governor Robert Lyndon S. Barbers on Thursday, September 1, said that the Provincial Government will establish a provincial ‘Balay Silangan’.

Following the arrest of highvalue targets in Barangay Mabua, Surigao City on August 31, 2022, Governor Barbers affirmed his “more than 100 percent” support to the campaign against illegal drug use and says that he is planning on establishing a provincial ‘Balay Silangan’, a temporary shelter for drug offenders who are undergoing rehabilitation.

The program also forms part of the community-based rehabilitation program of the

Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).

The governor said he is still discussing the details with PDEA Surigao del Norte Provincial Director Randy Pulmano.

be revived during his current term, he says he will continue to support the anti-illegal drugs campaign and the programs of PDEA through the provision of funds and other forms of support.

“It has been my personal advocacy to go against the people involved in drug trade and drug users,” he said.

“Dili sija kon rehab center but murag ing-ana ang konsepto (It’s not really a rehab center but the concept is similar).

We’ll get down to the details with regard to that program,” “Definitely, I will be the official added. very active in terms of pagpakgan gajud sa During his stint as the tigpayuhot aning ginadili provincial governor in 2007, na droga (Definitely, I will Governor Barbers created be very active in terms of the Anti-Vice Task Force to stopping those who continue tackle illegal drug use and to proliferate illegal drugs),” abuse in the province. While Governor Barbers added. the official has disclosed (DMNR/PIA-Surigao del that the task force will not Norte)

Caraga Infocus • September 3-9, 2022

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Mga sundalong nakatalaga sa Surigao Norte asintado laban sa terorismo Nagsagawa ng iba’tibang pagsasanay ang himpilan ng 30th Infantry Battalion (30IB) para sa mga kasundaluhan nito upang palakasin at patuloy na mapabuti ang mga kapabilidad ng mga tropa.

Kung kaya nitong ika-31 ng Agosto 2022, sinimulan ang Annual Marksmanship Training na ginanap sa himpilan ng 30IB. Pinangunahan ni Lieutenant Colonel (Lt. Col.) Jerold H. Jale, pinuno ng 30IB, ang pagbubukas at pagsisimula ng pagsasanay para sa pagpapalawig ng kapabilidad sa pagpapaputok ng mga armas lalo na sa matataas na kalibre ng baril. Layunin din ng pagsasanay na ito na mas mapahusay pa ang bawat kasundaluhan ng 30IB sa paghawak ng mga baril lalo na sa mga operasyon na ginagawa ng himpilan kaya naman ang mga tropa ng 30IB ay mas pinahusay sa pagpapaputok ng R4 Rifle, M14 Rifle, T4 Rifle, K3 Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW) at Pistol.

Bukod sa pagpapaputok

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16 CSU OJT completed 240 hrs at DENR, CENRO-Bislig ng iba’t-ibang klase ng armas ay pinahusay din ang mga kasundaluhan sa pagpapaputok ng Mortar Gunnery. Tinuruan din sila sa kung paano at ano ang gagawin nila kung may makita silang mga ilegal na pampasabog sa bundok sa pamamagitan ng Explosive Ordnance Reconnaissance Agent Training.

Sa pahayag ni Lt. Col. Jale, pinaalam nito ang mga ginagawang patuloy na pag-eensayo ng mga kasundaluhan sa kanilang kapabilidad ay napakahalaga at malaking tulong lalo na sa ginagawang mga operasyon ng 30IB. Ang

patuloy na pagpapalawig ng kaalaman ay sinasagawa upang mas maging epektibo sila lalo na sa laban sa terorismo at mabigyan ng seguridad ang mga mamamayan ng lalawigan ng Surigao del Norte.

Nanawagan din ang opisyal sa mga natitirang mga miyembro ng New People’s Army (NPA) sa Surigao del Norte na ang 30IB ay bukas ang loob na tatanggapin ang armadong nagnanais na babalik na sa piling ng kanilang pamilya at magbalik-loob sa pamahalaan. (30th Infantry Battalion/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Caraga Infocus • September 3-9, 2022

The City Environment and Natural Resources Office in Bislig City hosted a Culmination Activity for the On-The-Job Training students from Caraga State University (CSU) last September 3, 2022, held at the DENR-CENRO Bislig Conference Room, Mangagoy, Bislig City.

The 16 students taking up the Bachelor of Science in Forestry completed the two hundred forty hours (240) of OJT, under the supervision of Forester-I Arnel P. Masancay, MMFN Nursery Head.

During their OJT, students experienced and

conducted the activities of Nursery Operations such as Seedling production, Potting Media Preparation, Sorting and Grading, and Wildings Collection.

Other activities are Timber Inventory, Log Scaling, NGP Validation, Dendrology, Lawin Patrolling, Bird Watching, and Tree Planting.

Inlcuded in their field exposure were site and company visits to My Plywood Sustainable Resources Corporation and observed how plywood is being

Caraga Infocus • September 3-9, 2022

produced, using Falcata logs and at ERDB- MFTSC (Mindanao Forest Tree Seed Center) seed Storage and Wood Science Laboratory.

They were also trained on the Basic Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping and Drone Operation.

Meanwhile, the students also participated in the Information and Education Campaign on ENR Laws, Rules, Regulations, Projects, and Programs of the DENR. (DENR, CENROBislig/PIA Surigao del Sur)

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PAWA benefits goat production project from CNC in Carascal town The Panikian Agricultural Workers Association (PAWA) of Barangay Panikian in Carrascal, Surigao del Sur received the goat production package worth Php600,000.00 recently.

The Carrascal Nickel Corporation (CNC) through its Social Development and Management Program (SDMP) provided the project designed to engage the local community members in agricultural activities as livelihood support. It also aims to improve the status and condition of the low-income sector by giving jobs and business opportunities.

Accordingly, the interventions were delivered in collaboration with the Municipal Agricultural Office (MAO) of Carrascal and the Barangay Panikian Council.

Aside from rain-fed upland farming that

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LGU Bislig City, COUSAB launches activities for month-long 22nd Charter Day Celeb people regularly do in the community as the primary source of income, the goat production project is a supplementary livelihood resource provided by CNC-SDMP. The land and topography of Panikian, the place of the beneficiary , are ideal pasture areas for animal raising such as goats, carabaos, and cows.

The LGU-Carrascal through the Municipal

Agriculture Office (MAAO) gave the beneficiaries technical assistance last October 2021 to help and inform them on how to raise the goats properly.

The Goat Production Project offers a big potential for PAWA to generate more income by targeting the local market as goat meat is valued at Php 300 to Php 350 per kilogram. (NGPB, with a report from CNC/ PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Caraga Infocus • September 3-9, 2022

The month-long celebration of the 22nd Charter Day of Bislig City has successfully commenced as the LGU-Bislig City in coordination with the City Officials United Spouses Association of Bislig (COUSAB), and the Federation of Bislig Women’s Association (FOBWA) launched its line up activities on September 1.

Anchored on the theme: “Moving Ahead with Perseverance and Persistence towards Prosperity”,

the opening ceremony was conducted at Bislig Baywalk graced by City Mayor Florencio Garay together with his first lady, 2nd District Provincial Board Member, and COUSAB chair Margarita G. Garay.

A Trade Fair is on going highlighted with different booths installed in the area and showcasing different agricultural commodities, local delicacies, and other products. The Trade Fair is open in the entire

Caraga Infocus • September 3-9, 2022

month of September.

On the same day, participants vied for the grand prize of the Laro ng Lahi; and the 1st Round Singing Contest (Open Category), as part of the celebration.

Series of fun-filled nightly activities and events are anticipated throughout the entire month for the community to participate and deifinitely this will help in the promotion of the City’s business enterprise and tourism. (CIO-Bislig/ PIA Surigao del Sur)

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DSWD releases Educational Assistance to CarCanMadCarLan students

DPWH finishes 4-story 20-classroom building

A four-story, 20 classrooms building is now complete and ready for occupancy for pupils from Grades 1 to 6 of Falcon Memorial Elementary School (FMES) in Tago, Surigao del Sur which is in time with the face-to-face classes formally opened by the Department of Education last August 22, 2022, two years after suspension due to COVID-19 pandemic.

Said school building was constructed by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Surigao del Sur 1st District Engineering Office, under DepEd School Buildings Fund Fiscal Year 2020.

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The report said the project construction was completed on December 20, 2021.

because, now, our work is complete, and the buildings serve their purpose,” said DPWH Region -XIII Regional With the opening of Director Pol M. Delos face-to-face classes, the Santos, speaking 20-classroom building is generally, on all DepEd a timely addition to the school building projects growing number of pupils implemented in the of Falcon Memorial Region.

Elementary School, as this will provide the pupils DPWH continuously and school personnel partners with the with spacious and wellDepartment of ventilated classrooms Education to construct that are conducive to more school buildings learning. More than 1,000 in the future to address pupils will benefit from the lack thereof in the said learning facility. many public schools and to give Filipino “Seeing our school children access to better building projects education. (DPWHfilled with students is Caraga/PIA-Surigao del a joyful experience Sur) Caraga Infocus • September 3-9, 2022

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) released Educational Assistance to the 500 eligible students from the municipalities of Carrascal, Cantilan, Madrid, Carmen, and Lanuza (CarCanMadCarLan) on September 4, 2022, at the Cantilan Gymnasium.

Only those who received a text or email confirmation were

accommodated during the payout, accordingly.

Those qualified students received the cash assistance amounting to: 1. Elementary – 1,000.00 2. High School – 2,000.00 3. Senior High School – 3,000.00 4. Vocational/College – 4,000.00 Mr. Neri acknowledged the support of the Local Government Unit of Cantilan in providing the

Caraga Infocus • September 3-9, 2022

manpower and logistics to ensure the safe and expedited distribution of aid to students.

The educational assistance is under the DSWD’s Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS), which provides financial assistance to students in crisis to pay for their school fees and other educational needs.

(Pearl Prado, DSWD/PIASurigao del Sur)

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1502nd CDC new Director assumes post

Colonel Diosdado E Peji, Group Commander of 15th Regional Community Defense Group (15RCDG), Philippine Army, presided the Change of Director of 1502nd Community Defense Center (1502CDC) held on September 3, 2022 at the Headquarters, 1502CDC, Government Center, Patin-ay, Prosperidad, this province.

LTC Curilan is also the current Executive Officer of 15RCDG. He is a native of Butuan City and a proud product of the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC).

The Ceremony was witnessed by the Commander of 2003rd Ready Reserve Infantry Brigade, Brigadier General Claro A. Lozada, Philippine Army (Reserve) with key Officers and Enlisted The outgoing Acting CDC Director, Reservists of 1502nd Ready Reserve Major Jerome G Waclin, who is Infantry Battalion spearheaded by the current CDC Director of 1504th its Battalion Commander, Lieutenant (Surigao del Sur) Community Defense Colonel Ma Teresa P Baylon, Philippine Center turned-over his duties and Army (Reserve), and organic responsibilities to Lieutenant Colonel personnel of 15RCDG and 1502CDC. Roy B. Curilan (Signal Corps), Philippine (2Lt Apilada, 1502CDC/PIA-Agusan del Army.

Sur)

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Caraga Infocus • September 3-9, 2022

DOLE prioritizes BOSH Trainings for MSMEs in AgSur La Victoria, and RTWPB Caraga Supervising LEO Cornelius Mahinay.

Some sixty-five employees and employers in Agusan del Sur underwent training on Basic Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH) for Safety Officer I at Mabe’s Savory Place, Barangay 1, San Francisco, Agusan del Sur.

Labor and Employment Agusan del Sur Field Office (DOLE ADSFO) with the Occupational Safety and Health Center (OSHC) Caraga and Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) Caraga.

The participants were establishments from LowRisk Safety Classification mostly composed of Multi-Branches, Lending Corporation, Retail and Wholesale, Stall Meat Shop, Banking and Finance, Cooperatives and Food Products as per strict implementation of Republic Act 1105, or the Occupational Safety and Health Law.

Topics on OSH and its legislation, Safety, and Health Hazards and Control Measures, Emergency Preparedness, Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment and Control (HIRAC), COVID-19 Safety, 7S of Good Housekeeping, and Wage Distortion were discussed during the training by speakers: DOLE ADSFO Head Maximo C. Magallen, OSHC-Caraga Engr. II Christian Lee Jaguit, RTWPB Caraga Board Secretary Earl De

The activity was facilitated by the Department of

Caraga Infocus • September 3-9, 2022

Emmanuel A. Barreto of Kusina De Grasya, expressed his gratitude as one of the event’s participants, “Ako nagapasalamat sa DOLE, OSH ug RTWPB, sa paghatag ug higayun ug pag facilitate na makaattend aning training kay nahibaloan naku unsay buhatun sa pag determine sa safety ug hazards sa among kumpanya, ug para maka comply mi sa OSH na inspection findings.

Daghang salamat (I’m thankful to DOLE, OSH, RTWPB for giving us the opportunity to attend this training for us to learn how to manage situations and determine the safety and hazards of our company so that we could also comply with the OSH inspection findings),” he said.

The DOLE ADSFO continues the OSH training initiative in the province to facilitate the certification of establishment representatives as Safety Officers and “OSH CHAMPIONS”. (DOLEAgusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

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TESDA-ADS releases scholarship allowance to 15 FRs in AgSur

The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) of Agusan del Sur dispensed financial allowances worth of thirty-nine thousand pesos (PhP39,000.00) to 15 Former Rebels (FRs) of the 26th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army on September 2, 2022.

Each of them received two thousand six hundred pesos (PhP2,600.00), as their scholarship allowance during the 10-day Land Preparation for Agricultural Crops Production leading to Agricultural Crops

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Production National Certificate (NC) III Training that started last August 09, 2022 and subsequently concluded on August 23 2022.

“Dili kamahayan ang among pag balik sa sabakan sa goberno, kung diin kami naka dawat sa lain-laing benepesyo ug programa na gikan sa nagka daiyang ahensya sa panggamhanan ilabi na sa TESDA nga maoy nag pasiugda ug nagpahigayon sa mga skills training ug seminars aron mahasa ang among kahibalo alang sa among

panginabuhian uban sa among pamilya (We never regret returning to the folds of the law, wherein we have received various benefits from the programs provided by the government agencies, especially TESDA which gave us the opportunity to undergo skills training and seminars for us to be equipped with the right knowledge and skills as we start our own families’ livelihood),” alias Jack said.

The TESDA Agusan del Sur is headed by Ms. Novielita A, Dispo, Acting

Caraga Infocus • September 3-9, 2022

Provincial Director of Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), which is amongst the active partner agencies of the unit in the implementation of government programs and services to the marginalized communities in the area of operations.

They offer scholarship grants for technical and vocational courses especially to the most vulnerable sectors in the community such as the FRs and the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) to empower the FRs to be more economicallyresilient by enhancing and developing their individual skills and capability toward sustainable livelihood.

return to the mainstream society),” said Dispo.

The said assistance and training were all part of the continuous process of reintegration program for the Former Rebels under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) which aims to give our FRs aid during their adaptation process while going back to their communities as lawabiding citizens far from the chaotic environment inside the Communist New Peoples Army group.

Meanwhile, Lieutenant Colonel (LtCol) Sandy R Majarocon, commanding officer of 26IB, commended the TESDA-Agusan del Sur on “Dako akuang kalipay their assistance with the nga nakahatag mi former rebels. “Sa maka sa TESDA ug gamay usa pa mapasalamaton nga kaalam sa inyo mahitungod sa pag-uma ako ug dako sa nagka nga inyong magamit sa lain-laing ahensya sa tagsa tagsa ninyo nga panggamhanan ilabi mga kumunidad isip na sa TESDA nga walay panginabuhian alang pu-as nga naningkamot sa inyong pagbalik sa sa pag pahigayon sa sabakan sa goberno (I nagdaiyang programa am glad that TESDA was alang sa atong mga able to provide you with kaigsuonan nga kanhi the right knowledge on nahisalaag sa laing farming that you can now dalan sa kinabuhi use in your respective aron sila makabaton livelihood following your ug malambuon ug Caraga Infocus • September 3-9, 2022

malaumon nga kaugmaon uban ang ilang pamilya ug mga mahal sa kinabuhi (Once again, I am thankful to all the different government agencies especially to TESDA for always exerting effort to provide programs intended for our former rebels, so they could experience a better life with their families and loved ones),” he said.

LtCol Majarocon also appealed to the remaining members of the communist NPA terrorists who are continue to allow themselves be used by the communist propaganda, to lay down their arms and return to the folds of the government and be law-abiding citizens once again. “Ang atong gobyerno andam mutabang sa inyo, dili na kenahanglan pa nga ipadayon ang walay hangkag nga pakigbatok sa gobyerno (Our government is always ready to serve and help you. There is no need to continue fighting against the government),” he said. (1Lt Percival Carido, CMO Officer, 26IB, PA/ PIA-Agusan del Sur)

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Marcos thanks Pinoys in Singapore for support in polls President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Tuesday thanked Filipinos in Singapore for their overwhelming support during the last May 9 national elections.

Marcos won the vote

of Filipino workers in Singapore with over 36,000 votes or three times more than his closest rival, former Vice President Leni Robredo.

Speaking to about 1,500 Filipinos at the Ho

Bee Auditorium of the National University of Singapore, Marcos said Filipinos in Singapore make the second highest voter turnout for overseas automated voting in the Asia Pacific and the third highest in the world.

NATIONAL NEWS

APPRECIATION. President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. waves to the about 1,5000 Filipinos at the Ho Bee Auditorium of the National University of Singapore to kick off his visit on Tuesday (Sept. 6, 2022). Marcos thanked the Filipino workers for their overwhelming support during the last May 9 national elections. (Screengrab from RTVM)

“Yung performance ng eleksyon ang pinakamataas na nakita ng embassy na recorded

(Your performance during elections is the highest recorded by the embassy) since overseas

Caraga Infocus • September 3-9, 2022

voting began in 2004.

Muli, maraming salamat po (Again, thank you very much),” he said in his

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speech.

He also joked about “campaigning” before Filipinos in Singapore now since he did not have the chance to do so during the campaign period.

“Kahit na gusto namin kayong puntahan ay hindi pa kami pinapayagan. Pero ngayon, ito na ang ating pagkakataon. Kaya nga sabi ko dito sa halalan na ito, nabaliktad ang proseso. Nauna ang boto sa kampanya, nahuli yung kampanya. Pero since kampanya ito wag nyong kalimutan iboto ninyo Bongbong at Sara, ha (Even if we wanted to visit you, we were not allowed. But now is our chance. That’s why I said that this election process was inverted. Votes came first before the campaign, the campaign came after. But since this is my chance to campaign, don’t forget to vote for Bongbong and Sara),” he said.

Ambassadors of the Philippines Meanwhile, Marcos praised Filipinos for making a good impression on Singaporeans due to their

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skills and hard work.

“Kayo lahat ay ambassador ng Pilipinas at talaga sa pagka ambassador ninyo ng Pilipinas ay ginagawa ninyo at binibigyan ninyo ng dangal ang Pilipinas (You are all ambassadors of the Philippines and by being ambassadors of the Philippines you give the country honor),” he said.

PBBM secures over $8-B in business deals from Indonesia trip

said.

As part of his promise to give Filipinos a better life, he also vowed to provide more opportunities in their home country.

“Hanggang dumating ang araw na kumpleto na ang trabaho sa Pilipinas ay meron pa tayong pagkakataon na ipakita ang galing, husay, sipag at bait ng ating He promised to prioritize mga overseas workers the welfare and (Until the time comes protection of Filipinos that we have enough in Singapore and their jobs in the Philippines, families through the we still have a chance to grant of assistance, show the talent, skill, hard scholarships, and work and kindness of our healthcare by its embassy overseas workers),” he there and concerned added. government agencies such as the Department There are an estimated of Migrant Workers.

200,000 Filipinos living and working in Singapore.

Marcos recognized how difficult it must have Of this figure, 58 percent been for Filipinos to be of whom are registered away from their families, as professionals and lauding them for keeping skilled workers, while 42 a positive attitude despite percent are employed hardships. as household service workers.

“Being in another country far away from your loved In 2021, Singapore was ones is not easy pero the second largest matibay ang Pilipino (but source of overseas Filipinos are strong). You Filipino remittances can withstand hardships worldwide amounting to by wearing the most USD2.20 billion. (PNA/Azer beautiful of smiles,” he Parrocha) Caraga Infocus • September 3-9, 2022

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has secured over $8 billion worth of investment pledges from his state visit to Indonesia, Press Secretary Rose Beatrix “Trixie” Cruz-Angeles said Tuesday.

A total of $8.484 billion worth of memorandum of understanding (MOUs) and letters of intent (LOI) were signed at the Jakarta Business Roundtable Meeting.

Among them is US$822 million in investments in textiles, garments, renewable energy, satellite gateway, wire

global technology, and agrifood.

The President’s trip also yielded $7 billion in infrastructure for unsolicited private-public partnerships such as a C-5 four-level elevated expressway.

A US$662-million trade value for the supply of coal and fertilizer was also signed.

Cruz-Angeles said the government anticipates that these deals will generate at least 7,000 new jobs.

In a media interview in Indonesia, Marcos said

Caraga Infocus • September 3-9, 2022

business leaders from a wide range of sectors were “very enthusiastic” about doing business in the Philippines.

He said Indonesian business people have not been able to come to the Philippines due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“So sabi ko nagbago na ‘yan. So come to the Philippines. So they all committed naman to… Many of them are already actually involved in the Philippines. So sabi nila palalakihin nila ‘yung kanilang involvement.

Gusto nila mag-expand,” he said. | PND

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PBBM taps Indonesia for fertilizer supply; cites extensive talk on PPP with Widodo President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Tuesday said the country would tap Indonesia for fertilizer supply after his “very productive” meeting with Indonesian President Joko Widodo.

“We talked about the possibility of them supplying us with fertilizer with Urea of Indonesia,” Marcos said in a media interview as he ended his state visit to Indonesia.

Marcos earlier said his administration is trying to look at non-traditional sources of fertilizer supply and expressed willingness to pursue governmentto-government deals to avail cheaper fertilizers.

Meanwhile, the chief executive said that Indonesia has agreed to export coal to the country.

“And there was a time a few weeks back where they stopped export of

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PBBM: More Indonesian investors keen on doing business in PH President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Tuesday said Indonesian investors are “very enthusiastic” about investing in the Philippines.

“Very enthusiastic naman ang mga ministers ni President Widodo, ‘yung mga prospects dito sa atin sa Pilipinas, and marami silang nakikitang mga opportunities. So we will pursue that,” Marcos said in a media interview.

coal. Nakiusap tayo sa kanila at sinama naman tayo doon sa listahan na bibigyan nila. Magexport sila ng coal,” Marcos added.

The President also told the media that the “most extensive subject matter” in the discussions was public-private partnerships (PPP).

palalakihin nila ‘yung kanilang involvement.

Gusto nila mag-expand.”

Marcos said he also asked for Indonesia’s assistance in agriculture, specifically in the fisheries sector.

“Pati ‘yung nagpatulong ako sa fisheries, kasi obsessed ako doon sa Pilipinas nag-iimport ng “Because nandito talaga galunggong eh. Hindi tayo para i-encourage ko talaga matanggap ‘yung PPPs with the ‘yan eh,” he said. “So I Philippine government,” asked for help because he said. “Many of matibay ang fisheries them are already nila. So sabi ko we can actually involved in the exchange delegations.”

Philippines. So sabi nila | PND Caraga Infocus • September 3-9, 2022

The chief executive described his first foreign trip since taking office in June as “more productive than we had expected.”

Marcos said Indonesian President Joko Widodo toured him in a mall that serves as a one-stop-shop for all local products and caters to micro, small, and mediumsized enterprises (MSMEs).

“And last night suddenly he invited us to see – to go to a mall. Bago nung dinner namin, pinuntahan namin ‘yung mall. ‘Yun pala, ‘yung mall na pinakita sa amin, gobyerno ang may-ari at saka ang produktong pinagbibili doon sa loob ng mall, lahat local, lahat MSMEs, lahat maliliit. Pagka masyado nang lumaki, hindi na sila pwede doon sa mall.

Lilipat sila doon sa regular na mall,” said Marcos.

Marcos said they both agreed to give a helping hand in terms of improving marketing strategies and business plans.

“And nag-agree na naman kami. Sabi niya, oo, kailangan natin turuan ‘yung packaging, ‘yung market, kung ano ‘yung hinahanap sa merkado, how do you business plan, ‘yung mga ganung klaseng bagay.

Pareho sa atin,” said Marcos.

He said the Philippines’ longstanding relationship with its close neighbor, Indonesia, has served as the “primary foundation” of all the deals and agreements that seek to enhance each other’s commitments in a wide array of areas.

ng Indonesia.

So meron talaga tayong pundasyon na maganda na we can build on for – to develop all of these,” Marcos said.

Four deals on economy, cultural relations, and defense were signed Monday during Marcos’ state visit to the country.

The two leaders also talked “at length” regarding the role of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) “while we face the difficulties in this very volatile time in geopolitics not only in our region but also in the rest of the world.”

Marcos, on Tuesday morning, left Indonesia for Singapore, where he is set to hold separate meetings with Singaporean President Halimah Yacob and Prime “Ang maganda nito, Jakarta, Minister Lee Hsien Loong to Indonesia long-standing – 73 deepen and further enhance years na tayong mag-partner bilateral relations. | PND

Caraga Infocus • September 3-9, 2022

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Department of Migrant Workers sa pamumuno ni Kalihim Susan “Toots” Ople na siyang mangunguna sa lahat – sa pinakabago at isa sa pinaka-importanteng departamento sa aking Gabinete, sa ating gobyerno,” the President said.

PBBM commits to make PH conducive to investments; vows to create more jobs President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Sunday pledged to make the country more conducive to investments in a bid to provide more employment opportunities for Filipinos.

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and beautiful shores, constrained to leave loved ones due to the lack of opportunities back home,” the President said.

The President made the remark during his meeting with the Filipino community in Indonesia, where he lamented the lack of job opportunities in the Philippines.

“That’s why I, together with the Cabinet, are fully committed to making sure that every Filipino’s economic, social, and cultural potential are fully realized in our own country,” the President said.

“Workers are abroad not because [it’s] a matter of choice, but they are away from our familiar

The chief executive said he wants Filipinos to only travel abroad for work because it is their choice,

not because they have no other options.

“Together, we’ll make the Philippines more conducive for tourism, for investment, at the same time, creating more jobs for the economy,” he said.

During his speech, Marcos likewise assured overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) that they are part of his administration’s priority.

“Dahil dito asahan po ninyo na magiging fully operational na sa simula ng 2023 ang

Caraga Infocus • September 3-9, 2022

The Chief Executive cited the contribution of OFWs, whom he called “ambassadors of goodwill.”

“At kami naman ay laging nagpapasalamat na ang inyong sakripisyo ay patuloy pa rin ninyong ginagawa, pinapakita ninyo ang pinakamagandang ugali ng Pilipino at ito ay nagbibigay bunga sa pagtulong sa ating mga kababayan na naiwan sa Pilipinas,” the President said.

The President also expressed gratitude to Filipinos in Indonesia for their sacrifices.

“Taos-puso akong nagpapasalamat sa inyo dahil sa inyong pagmamahal sa ating bayan, sa inyong sakripisyo na inyong

dinadaanan para sa inyong mga pamilya, para sa inyong minamahal na Pilipinas,” he said.

directors, business consultants, lawyers, accountants, engineers, teachers, and technical staff,” he said.

“At kayo ngayon ay naging ambassador of goodwill na ng Pilipinas dito sa Indonesia.

Kaya naman, kami’y magpapasalamat din at dito sa Indonesia, napakaganda ang pangalan ng Pilipino sa inyong mga kasama dito,” he added.

The President noted that the high level of respect gained by Filipinos has contributed to sustaining trade, tourism, and people-to-people links between the two countries.

“Your success here makes us all back home very, very, very proud,” Cultural linkages, he said. “Every time we people-to-people ties hear news of yet another In his speech, the success by our OFWs, we President also mentioned are always saying thank the common cultural you for the glory you heritage shared bring to our country, for between Filipinos and the good name that you Indonesians. burnish and polish of our country while you are “I am very happy to abroad. Iba talaga ang see that this kinship and galing ng Pinoy saan close people-to-people man sa mundo.” ties continue to endure, as shown by the vitality of the Filipino community In his meeting with President Joko Widodo here in Indonesia.

Napakalaki ang respeto on Monday, Marcos said he would tell him about ng mga Indonesian sa how proud he is “of the mga Pilipino dahil sa successes of the Filipino inyo,” he said. community here and how you have learned “You have become to adapt and learn valued members of from Indonesia and its the local society — as people.” | PND investors, as company

Caraga Infocus • September 3-9, 2022

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Optional wearing of face masks outdoors thumbed down An infectious disease expert on Tuesday said the optional wearing of face masks in public open spaces is not advisable at this time.

Dr. Rontgene Solante was reacting to the dry run of voluntary wearing of face mask in Cebu City which already started and expected to end in December.

“I am not in favor of lifting or iyong optional na lang ang pagsuot ng mask sa outdoor for reasons like mababa pa rin ang booster population natin sa general public (optional wearing of masks outdoors for reasons like low booster population in the general public),” Solante said in a televised public briefing.

Citing that the Omicron subvariant is still circulating, Solante said such face mask policy is “dangerous”.

Earlier, Department of Health officer-in-charge Maria Rosario Vergeire insisted on the wearing of face mask as it scientifically provides 70 to 80 percent protection against Covid-19 and other infectious diseases.

“Well, in fact pinayagan na natin lahat ng tao, in terms of makalabas na, makapagconduct na ng mga different activities but palagi nating sinasabi na if there is a policy na magiging last na nating tanggalin will always be the health protocol at kasama na diyan iyong pagsuot ng (we have allowed everyone in terms of going out and conducting

PNA photo

activities but we always say if there’s a policy which we’ll remove last that will always be the health protocol which includes wearing of) face mask, whether it’s outdoor or indoor,” Solante said.

When asked if Cebu City’s policy on face mask use could be practiced in Metro Manila, Solante said “it may be imitated but not at this point in time of the pandemic”.

Positivity rate and booster vaccination coverage are two of the factors that must be considered when lifting the face mask protocol at any place, he noted.

The country’s health experts say that lifting the face mask mandate would make the public complacent about their responsibility to protect themselves and others during a pandemic and their need to receive booster doses or primary series of Covid-19 vaccine.

“We experience still more cases na nakita natin sa mga hospital ngayon, iyong (that we see in

Caraga Infocus • September 3-9, 2022

hospitals now, the) vulnerable population,” Solante said. “There is still this vulnerable population, high-risk of severe Covid and in fact, mataas ang mortality sa mga population na ito (the mortality rate is high in this population).”

Solante urged local leaders to closely coordinate with the Department of Health about the implementation of such policies “that are very drastic as they involved the protection of people”.

“They should also consult with their experts, the local experts and look at the benefit, the risk, kung mayroon mang mga ganitong klaseng mga polisiya, not because of ang sasabihin lang (if there’s a policy like this and not just say) ‘because we want the economy to recover’,” he said.

Everybody wants to recover and be able to work but a balance between economy and public health must be maintained where health protocols are observed, he added. (PNA/ Ma. Teresa Montemayor)

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PH daily average of Covid-19 cases down 10% The daily average of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) cases went down by 10 percent for the period Aug. 29 to Sept. 4, the Department of Health (DOH) reported Monday.

From 2,752 per day recorded from Aug. 22 to 28, the number decreased to 2,449 daily in the recent week.

The latest case bulletin showed there were 17,145 new cases and

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354 verified deaths.

Of the additional deaths, the DOH said 108 occurred from Aug. 22 to Sept. 4.

In the same period, 40 cases were added to the tally of severe and critical infections, which went down to 768 from the previous week’s 807.

ICU beds are utilized.

To date, about 72,620,347 or 92.98 percent of the country’s target population (78,100,578) are vaccinated against Covid-19, including 78.14 percent of 8,721,357 senior citizens.

As of Sept. 4, a total of 18,194,645 have Only 23.5 percent or 595 received booster out of the 2,529 intensive shots out of the fully care unit (ICU) beds are vaccinated population. in use, while 29.3 percent (PNA/Ma. Teresa or 5,974 of 20,387 nonMontemayor) Caraga Infocus • September 3-9, 2022

PH detects over 600 add’l cases of Omicron BA.5 subvariant The country has detected 624 more cases of the Omicron BA.5 subvariant of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), the Department of Health (DOH) reported Monday.

In a presentation, the DOH said 605 of the total cases are from all the regions while the remaining 19 are returning overseas Filipinos.

Of the 605 infections, about 26 from Ilocos Region, 33 from

Cagayan Valley, 41 from Central Luzon, 22 from Bicol Region, six from Western Visayas, 35 from Central Visayas, five from Zamboanga Peninsula, one from Northern Mindanao, five from Davao Region, 56 from Soccsksargen, 61 from Region 4-A (Calabarzon), 15 from Region 4-B (Mimaropa), six from Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao, 119 from Cordillera Administrative Region,

Caraga Infocus • September 3-9, 2022

40 from Caraga and 134 from the National Capital Region.

There were also 13 additional BA.4 cases -- eleven from Soccsksargen, one each from Central Luzon and Central Visayas.

The DOH also detected one case of BA.2.12.1 from Central Luzon.

All the reported cases are based on the latest genome sequencing results as of Sept. 2. (PNA)

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Regional Office Jose Rosales Avenue, Butuan City piacaraga@gmail.com; pia_caraga@yahoo.com.ph (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