3| Caraga gears up for 2022 full devolution 4| Caraga RDC tackles plan on full devolution, orients LGUs on PPP 5| Caraga Regional ComDev prepares local government units for full devolution July-September 2021 Vol. XXIV, Issue 3
A Publication of the Caraga Regional Development Council
CENTERFOLD
All About The Full Devolution:
Implementation of the Supreme Court Decision in the Mandanas Case
Graphics from Ambisyon Natin 2040
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Editor’s Note RD Priscilla R. Sonido
On June 1, 2021, Pres. Rodrigo Duterte signed Executive Order 138, series of 2021 signaling the start of full devolution. In this issue of Caraga Today, we highlight the activities of the Caraga Regional Development Council (RDC) to prepare the local government units in the full devolution come 2022. At the centerfold (pages 10 and 11), you will find the snapshots of the eight salient features of the EO. The infographics explain the impact of the Supreme Court ruling on the Mandanas-Garcia case. The ruling will increase local government units’ (LGUs) Internal Revenue Allotment by as much as 27.61%. Other activities of the Caraga RDC include orientation on Public-Private Partnership with the LGUs. There is also discussion on the creation of ecozones among Regions in Mindanao. The Regional Task Force for COVID-19 One Cagara Shield discussed measures on how to curb the spread of COVID-19’s Delta variant in the Region. On the other hand, the Caraga Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF -ELCAC) discussed the status of the COVID-19 vaccination rollout, the Barangay Development Program (BDP) implementation, and the peace situation in the Region. Our regular inclusions include the economic situation of the Region and the projects being monitored by the Regional Project Monitoring Committee for
NEWS 6 NB-RDCom-MAC supports ecozones development in Mindanao
7 Secretary Chua shares next
development plan priorities in NEDA-Caraga visit
RTF-ELCAC 8 Caraga discusses COVID-19
vaccination, Barangay Development Program, peace status
the second quarter of the year. On a special note, the Socioeconomic Planning Secretary, Karl Kendrick Chua visited the NEDA-Caraga and shared his insights on the priorities of the next development plan. To end, I encourage everyone to further strengthen our advocacies in the Region. This is to ensure the Caraganons that the government continues to work even with the pandemic. Let us take good care of ourselves.
for COVID-19 One 9 RTF Caraga Shield addresses delta variant threat, tightens border controls
is now 20 NEDA-Caraga Safety Seal certified Caraga RGADC, PCW conduct gender mainstreaming orientation
REPORTS Q2 Regional 12 2021 Economic Situationer Project 18 Regional Monitoring Report
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Caraga gears up for 2022 full devolution by Sherwin E. Verdun, NEDA-Caraga
Caraga is gearing up for full devolution through Executive Order 138 signed by Pres. Rodrigo Duterte on June 1, 2021. The full devolution came after the Mandanas-Garcia Ruling where the Supreme Court held that all national taxes collected, except those for special-purpose funds and special allotments for national wealth development, should be included in the base of the just share computation of local government units (LGUs). The ruling will increase local governments’ share of the national taxes beginning in the fiscal year 2022. The increase in share will help fund the delivery of basic services and facilities devolved to LGUs by RA 7160. In pursuing the full devolution, the EO requires that concerned national government agencies and LGUs prepare their respective Devolution Transition Plans or DTPs. The EO mandates that national government agencies identify and clarify the functions and services for devolution in the DTPs. The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) will approve the DTPs within 120 days from the effectivity of the EO. The EO also created a Committee on Devolution (ComDev) at the national level and its counterpart regional committees to oversee the full devolution. The Committee is chaired and co-chaired by DBM and the Department of the Interior and Local Government, respectively. In Caraga, the Caraga Regional Development Council (RDC) through its Executive Committee created the Regional Committee on
Source: Executive Order 138 and the Department of Budget and Management. Refer to pages 10 and 11 for the details of each salient feature.
Devolution (RComDev) through Resolution 3, series 2021 passed on August 10, 2021. The RComDev is a special committee under the RDC. The DBM-Caraga Regional Director chairs the Caraga RComDev while the DILG-Caraga Regional Director is the co-chair. Members include the National Economic and Development Authority, Bureau of Local Government Finance, Departments of Agriculture, Education, Environment and Natural Resources, Energy, Health, Science and Technology, Information and Communications Technology, Public Works and Highways, Justice, Labor and Employment, Social Welfare and Development, Trade and Industry, Transportation, Tourism, as well as the Population and Development Commission, National Housing Authority, and National Irrigation Authority. Other members include the provincial presidents of the League of
Municipalities, the president of the Butuan City Association of Barangay Councils, and private sector representatives from Butuan Chamber of Commerce and Gawad Kalinga. Aside from a DTP, LGUs will also prepare a Capacity Development Agenda (CDA) based on the framework set by DILGLocal Government Academy. The CDA contains the capacity development strategies of the LGUs to capacitate them further with expanded role. The LGUs will also prepare a communications plan based on ComDev’s guidelines. As of this writing, LGUs and government agencies with devolved functions are finalizing their respective action plans. The functions, services, and facilities will be devolved to local government units by the fiscal year 2024.
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Caraga RDC tackles plan on full devolution, orients LGUs on PPP by Patricia B. Radaza, NEDA-Caraga
The Caraga Regional Development Council (RDC) convened for its 106th Full Council Meeting on 24 June 2021 via teleconference. Among others, the meeting highlighted the discussion of the action plan on the Regional implementation of the MandanasGarcia case Supreme Court ruling given the issuance of Executive Order (E.O.) 138, S. 2021, and the orientation on implementing PublicPrivate Partnership (PPP) projects for local government units (LGUs). Relative to the devolution of basic services to the LGUs Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Caraga OICRegional Director Jenneth C. Partosa apprised the Council on the developments relative to the rollout of said EO in the Region. She urged the regional line agencies (RLAs) to coordinate with their respective
central offices on the submission of their Devolution Transition Plans (DTPs). The LGUs on the other hand were encouraged to simultaneously prepare the same. The meeting also featured a discussion on the status of PPP projects in the Region. Said discussion cum orientation emphasized the role of the LGUs in the implementation of the PPP program and the need to improve Caraga’s PPP portfolio. PPP Center Executive Director Eleazar E. Ricote highlighted to the local chief executives (LCEs) the potential of PPP engagements in attaining their infrastructure and development priorities in their respective localities. Given this, Caraga RDC Chairperson and Agusan del Norte Gov. Dale B. Corvera encouraged the LGUs to undertake PPP projects
that are aligned with their local development plans and priorities. The discussion on the said matter also served as a channel for LCEs and private sector representatives (PSRs) alike to air their queries and clarifications on the guiding principles in the implementation of PPP projects. During the same meeting, the Council also recognized the LGU of Butuan for qualifying as among the Top 50 Champion Cities of the Bloomberg Philanthropies 2021 Mayors Challenge. In the Philippines, only the cities of Manila and Butuan emerged as finalists to the 2021 Global Mayors Challenge, a worldwide innovation competition that encourages and spreads the cities' most promising ideas.
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Caraga Regional ComDev prepares local government units for full devolution by Geoffrey J. Abendaño, DBM/Regional ComDev Secretariat
The Caraga Regional Committee on Devolution (RComDev) prepared local government units (LGUs) during the online Regional Orientation on the Preparation of Local Government Unit Devolution Transition Plans (DTPs) on August 16, 2021. The orientation began with a series of presentations from the Department of Budget and Management, National Economic and Development Authority, Bureau of Local Government Finance, and the Department of the Interior and Local Government. Presentations included an overview of Executive Order 138 and its implementing rules and regulations. The orientation includes the various result matrices and performance indicators that will be monitored by LGUs, local revenue forecast, and resource mobilization, and the salient features of the LGUs DTPs’. The next discussion was on the functions, services, and facilities that will be transferred to LGUs by national government agencies with devolved functions. Included in the orientation were preparatory activities such as phasing of devolved functions, identification of capacity development interventions, and organizational needs. During the orientation, the Provincial Government of Agusan del Sur, the City Government of Cabadbaran (Agusan del Norte), and the Municipal Government of
Basilisa (Dinagat Islands) shared their experiences and strategies in formulating their respective DTPs for other LGUs to benchmark. The Supreme Court’s ruling on the Mandanas-Garcia Petition that prompted the issuance of EO 138 will give LGUs access to additional funds, which will be called National Tax Allotment, formerly known as Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA). The one-day orientation aims to serve as a platform to meet Local Chief Executives and members of the LGU Devolution Transition Committee (DTC). DILG-Caraga Regional Director Lilibeth Famacion encouraged the participants to embrace EO 138 saying, “Dugang pondo, saktong
serbisyo sa pagkaugalingon, ligong pamunuan, makab-ot uban tanan sa kalambuan.” On the other hand, NEDACaraga Regional Director Priscilla Sonido enjoined the LGUs to observe the timelines of EO 138 and its IRR and fast-track the organization of LGU DTCs to ensure that local efforts are concerted towards DTP preparation and the full devolution of programs. She also urged RComDev to spearhead follow-through activities in the DTP preparation to ensure the compliance of LGUs.
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NB-RDCom-MAC supports ecozones development in Mindanao by Amethyst Joy A. Galos, NEDA-Caraga
The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board (NB) – Regional Development Committee (RDCom) – Mindanao Area Committee (MAC) manifested strong support for the establishment of a network of economic zones across Mindanao during its 31st Conference on 13 July 2021 via teleconference. The Mindanao Development Authority and Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) presented to the Committee the need to develop a network of economic zones in Mindanao according to Presidential Administrative Order No. 18, Series of 2019, “Accelerating Rural Progress Through Robust Development of Special Economic Zones in the Countryside.” Among others, the proposal involves the conversion of idle public lands into economic zones. PEZA Director General Charito B. Plaza underscored the significant role of economic zones in driving the economy back to its growth trajectory and in boosting countryside development. She called for the strong support of the Mindanao leaders in pursuit of said endeavor and emphasized the urgency of the matter because of President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s last few months in office. The Committee also pushed for the assessment of Integrated Forest Management Agreements covering ancestral domains of the indigenous peoples/indigenous
First column, top to bottom: NB-RDCom-MAC and Caraga RDC Chairperson, and Agusan del Norte Provincial Governor Dale B. Corvera; and NBRDCom-MAC Co-Chairperson, RDC XI Chairperson, and Davao de Oro Provincial Governor Jayvee Tyron L. Uy. Second and third column, left to right: PEZA Director General Charito B. Plaza; DA Undersecretary William C. Medrano; MinDA Undersecretary Janet M. Lopoz; NEDA Assistant Secretary Greg L. Pineda; DILG Director Rene V. Valera; and RDC XII Co-Chairperson and Private Sector Representative Ramon N. Floresta.
cultural communities and the alignment of the Integrated Forest Management Program with the Country’s long term plan and vision contained in the Philippine Development Plan and the AmBisyon Natin 2040. The members also discussed various concerns with interregional or national impact such as the pork situation and the guidelines in monitoring and evaluation of projects under the fiscal year 2021 assistance to local government units. In his message, NB-RDComMAC and Caraga Regional Development Council (RDC) Chairperson, Agusan del Norte Provincial Governor Dale B. Corvera underscored the crucial
role of the Committee in Mindanao’s development and recovery as a clearinghouse for key regional development policies and programs in the Mindanao Regions. Officials and representatives of the Mindanao RDCs and the Bangsamoro Economic and Development Council attended the 31st Conference of the NBRDCom-MAC.
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Secretary Chua shares next development plan priorities in NEDA-Caraga visit by John Christopher Y. Lim, NEDA-Caraga
Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Karl Kendrick Chua shared the next development plan priorities in his visit to NEDACaraga in Butuan City on September 1, 2021. As part of an official five-city visit to Mindanao NEDA Regional Offices, Secretary Chua shared four priority areas that NEDA will push for in the next planning period that include building good infrastructures in the provinces; strengthening innovation to ensure sustainable future developments; promoting regional equity of budgets; and making coherent actions on climate change. Secretary Chua stressed that designing infrastructure projects should incorporate environmental and land use planning. He also called to strengthen research and development and innovations in priority sectors like agriculture to ensure food sufficiency and forestry to foster sustainability. He cited that regional equity of budgets shall involve the use of data for more objective allocation of budgets across the regions. He encouraged the Region to strengthen efforts to combat the effects of climate change and urged the NEDA Regional Office to go back to the basics, with the agriculture value chain and human capital development as the main focus in the development plan. Lastly, he
Sec. Karl Kendrick Chua
stressed the importance of futures thinking in bringing the Country and the regions to a sustained high economic growth trajectory in the coming years. Also, Secretary Chua mentioned the unique situation of NEDA in contributing to the next level of development and
acknowledged the struggles, difficulties, and sacrifices of the staff. He recognized everyone’s contribution to socio-economic development amidst the pandemic and encouraged them to continuously improve and do better in their jobs. He said that work should be done as a team to deliver and do more. The Secretary’s visit marked his first face-to-face dialogue with the NEDA Regional Offices in Mindanao after he was appointed NEDA Secretary in June 2021. Said visit is intended to demonstrate the Secretary’s strong commitment to countryside development and strengthen the Agency’s position amidst the pandemic. Regional Development Group Undersecretary Mercedita A. Sombilla joined Secretary Chua in his visit. They were welcomed by NEDA-Caraga Regional Director Priscilla Sonido.
Secretary Chua and RDG Usec. Sombilla (right) pose with the NEDA-Caraga Management Committee.
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Caraga RTF-ELCAC discusses COVID-19 vaccination, Barangay Development Program, peace situation by Kris Jane E. de Rama, NEDA-Caraga
The Caraga Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) discussed the status of the COVID-19 vaccination roll-out, the Barangay Development Program (BDP) implementation, and peace situation during its 8th Regular Meeting on July 7, 2021, via videoconference. On COVID-19 vaccination, Department of Health Regional Director Cesar Cassion reported 248,221 total doses given as of July 7, 2021. About 171,463 Caraganons received their first dose and 66,758 received their second dose. Caraga’s vaccination rate is at 94.41% covering 39.35% of the target vaccine group.
On the other hand, One Caraga Shield and Caraga RDC Chairperson Gov. Dale Corvera (Agusan del Norte) discussed Caraga’s efforts to contain the spread of COVID-19. Efforts included the Zoning Containment Strategy, Emergency Operations Centers activation, and Recovery Cluster and Coordinated Operations to Defeat Epidemic (CODE) Team operation. On Barangay Development Program, Department of the Interior and Local Government Regional Director Lilibeth Famacion provided updates on the program for 357 Barangays with a PhP3.82 billion total fund allocation. RD Famacion said that funds were already given to
LGUs. While 98.31% of the projects are being reviewed by the agency. On criminality, Police Regional Office XIII P/BGen Romeo M Caramat, Jr. reported a 12.42% reduction in crime incidence during the first quarter of 2021. The reduction can be attributed to the strategic deployment of the police forces. Likewise, the 4th Infantry Division (4ID) of the Philippine Army Col Michele B Anayron presented updates on the insurgency. Updates included a 45% reduction in NPA-Initiated Violent Incidents in the 2nd quarter of 2021 compared to the last quarter of 2020. Also, 546 rebels surrendered to 4ID during the period. The meeting was Chaired by Sec. Karlo A. B. Nograles as Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security for Caraga Region, Caraga RTF-ELCAC Chairperson, and the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases Co-Chairperson. CORDS Nograles encouraged the members to remain strong-willed and steadfast despite the pandemic and other challenges.
The Caraga RTF-ELCAC officials and presenters during the 8th Caraga Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict Meeting.
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RTF for COVID-19 One Caraga Shield addresses delta variant threat, tightens border controls by Kris Jane E. de Rama, NEDA-Caraga
The Caraga Regional Task Force for COVID-19 One Caraga Shield (RTF-COCS) addresses the threat of the COVID-19 Delta variant during its 18th Meeting on July 21, 2021, through teleconference. The said variant has been found in the cities of Cagayan de Oro and Gingoog, Misamis Oriental. In response, the Task Force passed Resolution 37, series 2021, “A Resolution Restricting Travel Movement Between Regions X and Caraga to Contain the Spread of COVID-19 Delta Variant Through the Establishment of Regional Border Checkpoints.” The resolution requires travelers from Region X to present the documents, namely: negative RT-PCR result; vaccination card (indicating completion of either first or second doses provided that the required 14 -day post-vaccination period has elapsed); Safe, Swift, and Smart Passage (S-PaSS); Stay Safe Pass; Company Identification Card (ID) and Travel Authority for authorized persons outside residence (APOR) and frontline medical personnel; Mayor’s permit or delivery
documents for goods delivery; and ID with address information for residents from Magsaysay, Misamis Oriental. To facilitate the border control activities, the provincial local government units, and City Government of Butuan also agreed to each contribute funds for the operation of said checkpoints. As of 21 July 2021, the Region recorded a total of 24,053 COVID19 cases, of which 21,848 have recovered, 1,466 in isolation, and 739 have died. During the meeting, the Department of Health reported that Caraga’s COVID-19 epidemic curve started to again exhibit a declining trend which implies that the Region is re-entering its gradual recovery phase. Among provinces in the Region, Agusan del Sur recorded the highest number of cases at 33 percent of those recorded. Among cities, Butuan City posted the highest number of cases at 58 percent of the total number recorded. The Task Force also discussed complementary measures to prepare against the Delta variant including strengthened
implementation of the PreventDetect-Isolate-Treat-Reintegrate strategy; implementing the accordion policy to prepare local hospitals for potential surges; increasing local intensive care unit (ICU) and temporary treatment and monitoring facilities capacities; and stocking up on medicines and oxygen supplies, among others. The regional border checkpoints shall be effective July 22, 2021, and shall be jointly operated by PNP Regional Office 13, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Coast Guard, Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board, DOH, Office of Civil Defense, and Agusan del Norte Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office. Caraga Regional Development Council and RTF-COCS Chairperson Gov. Dale Corvera of Agusan del Norte presided the meeting which was attended by the local chief executives (LCEs) and heads of key national government agencies (NGAs).
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IRA and the Supreme Court ruling on the Mandanas-Garcia case:
Before Mandanas-Garcia Ruling
After Mandanas-Garcia Ruling (National Taxes)
the just share of LGUs from the national taxes is not limited to “national internal revenue taxes” collected by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) but includes collections (customs duties) by the Bureau of Customs (BOC).
All About The F
Implementation of the S in the Mand
Proper role of National National Government A Growth Equalization Fund (GEF) Government is to set national Transition plans to be submitted to shall be established starting FY policy and service delivery DBM for evaluation and approval 2022 to address the vertical and standards, and assist, oversee and within 120 days from effectivity of horizontal fiscal imbalance across monitor Local Government Units the EO. LGUs (LGUs) DILG, NEDA, DOF, and DAP to provide technical assistance to National Government shall departments/agencies concerned formulate and pursue a long-term institutional development program Local Government Units for LGUs to strengthen their To prepare respective transition capacities and capabilities to fully plans upon finalization of transition assume the devolved functions plans of NGAs concerned LGUs to ensure alignment and LGUs to undertake necessary consistency with NGA transition actions to prepare for the greater plans. role and responsibilities they are LGUs may consult and collaborate expected to assume with DILG, NEDA, DOF, and DAP in the formulation/development of their transition plans
Committee to monitor and evaluate the status of the implementation of devolution transition plans and submit report to OP 3 years after 2022 To be headed by the Executive Secretary and composed of the following members: Secretary of Budget and Management Secretary of the Interior and Local Government Secretary of Socioeconomic Planning Secretary of Finance Heads of the League of Provinces/ Cities/Municipalities of the Philippines, Liga ng mga Barangay sa Pilipinas, and Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines
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Expected increase in LGUs’ IRA in FY 2022: PhP234.39 B (27.61% more, 1.03% of GDP)*
Program allocation for IRA, 2019-2022
*Based on the 07 March 2020 computation of DOF **Based on DBCC AdRef meeting on July 28, 2020
Full Devolution:
Supreme Court Decision danas Case
Local Government Academy Shall harmonize all needed capacity development interventions Development Academy of the Philippines Shall strengthen capabilities of local chief executives Bureau of Local Government Finance Shall conduct programs regarding revenue generation and fiscal management LGUs to formulate respective Capacity Development Agenda based on framework and guidelines to be issued by DILGLGA LGUs may enter into memorandum of agreements with NGAs for the provision of
technical assistance
Vertical and horizontal linkages National Government across different levels of The NG shall lead in the developgovernment in development ment of a strong communications planning, investment programming plan and strategies to convey to and budgeting to be strengthened, the general public the delineation and areas of convergence to be of functions between the NGAs identified and LGUs. Likewise, results-based monitoring and evaluation systems shall be in place and strengthened to ensure purposive conduct of evaluations in the performance and delivery of devolved functions and services.
NGAs shall designate focal officials and personnel to participate in this communications effort. Local Government Units The LGUs shall be allowed to formulate their respective communications plans and strategies to effectively carry out the devolution efforts.
Transfer to other units within the agency Transfer to other agencies within the Executive branch Retire or be separated from the service, and be given preference to vacant positions in LGUs
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2021 Q2 Regional Economic Situationer
MACROECONOMIC PERFORMANCE Prices and Inflation
Headline inflation averaged 4.27%, higher than the previous quarter’s 4.10% and the same period last year’s 2.77%. This is however slightly lower than the country’s average inflation of 4.37% for the quarter. This brings the year-to-date (YTD) average inflation of the Region to 4.18%. The YTD average inflation is higher than the national government’s set target range of 2.00 -4.00 percent for full-year average 2021 inflation. The consumer price index average at 128.03 index points, is higher by 0.55% compared to the first quarter of 2021’s 127.33 index points and higher by 4.69% than the second quarter of 2020’s 122.30 index points. This suggests an increase in consumer prices by 28.03% compared to the consumer prices in 2012 which is the reference year. Among provinces, Dinagat Islands registered the highest inflation rate of 9.10%, followed by Agusan del Sur (4.50%), Surigao del Norte (4.30%), Agusan del Norte (4.00%), and Surigao del Sur (3.30%). Inflation increased in all provinces except Agusan del Norte, which posted a moderate decline in the second quarter compared to the reported rates in the first quarter of 2021. Double-digit average inflation rates in Dinagat Islands were
observed in alcoholic beverages, tobacco and other vegetable-based tobacco products (18.30%); transport (15.30%); restaurant and miscellaneous goods and services (14.97%); clothing and footwear (14.70%); recreation and culture (12.90%); and furnishing, household equipment and routine household maintenance (12.80%). Being an island Province, Dinagat Islands and the Siargao Islands in Surigao del Norte imports goods from Surigao City and other mainland provinces. Among provinces, Surigao del Norte posted the fastest inflation in transportation.
ECONOMIC SECTOR Fishery
Fisheries production registered 17,572.54 metric tons, which is a 26.41% increase from last quarter’s 13,901.17 metric tons but still lower than the 19,848.39 metric tons reported in the second quarter of 2020. Municipal fisheries account for 62.69% of the total fisheries production for the period, followed by aquaculture fisheries with 19.49% and commercial fisheries with 17.82%. Municipal and aquaculture fisheries both exhibited increases in production volume in the second quarter compared to the previous quarter’s performance by 30.40% and 50.36%, respectively. On the other hand, commercial fisheries’ production declined by 13.81% during this period. Better weather conditions resulted in a moderate increase in fisheries production in the Region.
Agriculture
The Region produced 257,059.83 metric tons of palay, which is a 913.94% increase from the 25,352.67 metric tons recorded in the first quarter of 2021. The increase coincides with the schedule for harvest in April and May. The total palay harvest is only 1.18 percent short of the production volume in the same period last year.
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Likewise, corn production increased. A total of 17,461.56 metric tons was reported, which is higher by 269.08% and 117.30% compared to the last quarter’s 4,731.14 metric tons and the same period last year’s 8,035.63 metric tons, respectively. Palay and corn’s improved performance indicates that the agriculture sector is thriving. During the year, the Department of Agriculture-Caraga (DA-Caraga) strengthened its farm mechanization program by providing agricultural machinery and equipment to farmers’ associations. To date, DACaraga handed over PhP349.01 million worth of farm machinery and equipment to the different rice farmers’ associations and cooperatives. Hog production was about 8,329.85 metric tons, lower by 2.66% than the previous quarter’s output of 8,557.67 metric tons and lower by 4.30% than the previous year’s same quarter output of 8,703.92 metric tons. On the other hand, goat and cattle production increased. Also, carabao production was about 485.74 metric tons, higher by 4.00% than the first quarter of 2021’s output but lower by 2.38% than the second quarter of 2020’s output. The decline in hog production contracted the overall livestock production as hog production contributes the majority of the
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livestock production at 88.66%. The hog industry continues to recover from the effects of the African Swine Fever (ASF). In response, the DA conducts an information drive to combat ASF. The DA-Philippine Crops Insurance Corporation also provides indemnification to swine raisers affected in 2020 and 2021. Poultry production moderately slowed down. Chicken, which comprises the bulk of poultry produced, registered a decline of 15.28% with 3,270.93 metric tons compared to its previous quarter’s production volume of 3,860.73 metric tons. The national average farmgate price of lightweight broiler chicken in the commercial farm was PhP100.69 per kilogram. This was lower by 9.33% than the previous quarter’s price of PhP111.05. Chicken eggs, on one hand, increased its production with 2,086.16 metric tons vis-à-vis the first quarter 2021 performance of 1,696.04 metric tons. Production of duck increased by 52.19%, from 22.65% in the first quarter to 34.47%. At the national level, the average farmgate price of duck meat in commercial farms during the quarter was reported at PhP86.63 per live weight kilogram, higher than the previous quarter’s farmgate price of PhP73.37. Meanwhile, the production volume of duck eggs decreased by 16.34% compared to production volume in the previous quarter.
Forestry
Log production increased by 14.92% from 79,503.92 m3 in the first quarter to 235,732.43 m3 in the second quarter. Likewise, manufactured forest products increased by 196.50% from 79,503.92 m3 in the first quarter to 235,732.43 m3 in the second quarter. Veneer accounts for 52.02% (122,624.23 m3) of the total processed wood products, followed by plywood with 41.36% (97,504.98 m3) and lumber with 6.62% (15,603.22 m3). More relaxed COVID-19 policies contributed to the improved performance, which allowed the resumption of work in processing plants and provided priority permits in the delivery of wood products and other commodities. Also, the demand from Region 10 (Northern Mindanao) and 11 (Davao Region) contributed to an increase in forestry production. The disposition of wood products outside the Region attracted massive log harvests amidst the pandemic. Positive results for manufactured forest production were also observed due to improved log production.
Mineral
The metallic mineral sector generates about PhP17.76 billion in production value in the second quarter, higher by 93.45% compared to the previous quarter’s PhP9.18 billion. Nickel ore generated about 63.04% (PhP11.20 billion) of the estimated production
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value followed by mineral products at 36.32% (PhP6.45 billion) and mineral by-products at 0.64% (PhP113.96 million). The resumption of operation and increased operating days of some mining contractors, permit holders, and operators contributed to the improvement of nickel ore and scandium oxalate productions. Moreover, higher tons milled, higher mill recovery, and higher head grade of gold and silver contributed to their production increase. On the other hand, power plant shutdowns for the descaling of boiler furnaces contributed to the decline in the mixed nickel-cobalt sulfide and chromite production. The Region generated PhP1.07 billion in government revenue from royalties and excise taxes from operating mines, which translates to 111.07% more than the PhP508.78 million it generated in the first quarter of 2021. As of the second quarter of 2021, there are 26 operating mining contractors/permit holders/operators in the Region. Of these, 23 are mining metallic minerals such as nickel, gold, mixed nickel-cobalt sulfide, silver, scandium oxalate, and chromite while three are mining nonmetallic minerals such as sand and gravel. Also, direct employment from the resumption of operation and increased operating days of some mining contractors/permit holders/ operators generated an increase of
46.87% from 17,718 in the first quarter to 26,023 in the second quarter of 2021.
Tourism
The tourism sector demonstrated a slight performance improvement. Tourist arrivals increased by 9.82% from 105,954 tourist arrivals in the first quarter to 116,356 tourist arrivals in the second quarter of 2021. These improvements were translated to PhP1.20 billion and PhP1.30 billion in tourist expenditures in the first and second quarter of 2021, respectively. The improvement came from the
reopening of some tourism areas and establishments. In terms of accommodation, the DOT has accredited 31 accommodation establishments, which is 5 accommodations higher (19.23%) compared to the 26 accommodation establishments accredited in the first quarter of 2021. Low applications for accreditation due to the pandemic affected the increase as well as minimal tourist arrivals and receipts due to community quarantine protocols and travel restrictions.
Business Registration
The number of newly-registered businesses in the DTI Business Name Registration System (BNRS) declined by 62.53%. From 11,511 registrants in the first quarter to 4,313 registrants in the second quarter of 2021. However, compared to the 3,706 new registrations during the same period in 2020, business name registrations in the second quarter of 2021 are relatively higher by 16.38%. The decline is caused by the continued impacts of the pandemic. Likewise, investments and jobs generation declined by 26.09% and 36.27%, respectively. The decline may be attributed to new businesses adopting technologies especially online. However, the DTI created an online payment facility to facilitate new business registration.
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SOCIAL SECTOR Social Protection
Around PhP1.56 billion in 4Ps grant was funded, which is double (99.42%) compared to the grant given in the first quarter of 2021 at PhP784.70 million. The Program served 188,709 households. This is 0.77 percent lower than the number of households served in the first quarter of 2021. Out-migration affected the decline. Also, some children beneficiaries turned 19 years old and graduated from the Program. As of the first semester of 2021, the 4Ps catered to 194,724 unduplicated households. Under the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), the DSWD gave about PhP22.72 million. However, the number of served beneficiaries decreased by 49.37% from 3,486 in the first quarter to 1,765 in the second quarter of 2021. The decline is because the targeted beneficiaries were already served in the first quarter of 2021. The ongoing implementation of SLP regular projects covers current and continuing appropriations and the accounts payable-approved project proposals. Meanwhile, under the Aid to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) Program, PhP195.09 million in grants was given to 42,553 clients. However, the number of served clients is fewer by 7.50% from the 45,982 clients served in the first quarter of 2021. On the contrary, the assistance given through medical, burial, transportation, education, and food increased in the same period. Further, under the Social Pension (SocPen) Program, PhP420.64 million was given to 88,509 qualified senior citizen beneficiaries. This number of beneficiaries is 71.00% higher than the 51,703 beneficiaries catered in the previous quarter. However, the Program met some challenges in the implementation such as the difficulty in entering some areas in the Region to conduct validation and payout due to healthrelated restrictions to curb the spread of COVID-19.
Health
The maternal mortality ratio stood at 98.12 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births, higher compared to the first quarter of 2021’s 50.62 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births. The rise in maternal mortality can be attributed to the significant decrease in pre-natal visitation and delivery to facilities by pregnant mothers due to fear of contacting COVID-19 and social stigma; limited access to blood supply in remote areas; inadequate access to the right information on the risk of early pregnancy; and traditional birth attendants who continued to attend deliveries in some areas. On the contrary, the neonatal mortality ratio reduced from 5.19 deaths per 1,000 live births in the first quarter to 2.45 deaths per 1,000 live births in the second quarter of 2021. This translates to 22 fewer neonatal deaths. But infant mortality ratio increased at 4.66 deaths per 1,000 live births of children under one year of age, this is 31.64 % higher than the previous quarter’s 3.54 deaths per 1,000 live births. Meanwhile, the under-five mortality rate was recorded at 10.06 deaths per 1,000 live births. Among the major causes of neonatal, infant, and underfive-year-old deaths include lack of immunization and non-acceptance of the same by communities and/or parents.
In terms of the number of COVID-19 cases, the Region reported 21,760 COVID-19 cases as of 30 June 2021. About 83.70% of the active cases have recovered; 13.40% are still in isolation, and 2.90% died. Of the active cases, 96.80% are either asymptomatic or have mild symptoms while 3.30% are either severe or in critical condition. In terms of facilities, 44.00% of the 57 intensive care unit (ICU) beds are available for COVID-19 cases; 45.00% of the 461 isolation beds are available for use; 54.00% out of 229 ward beds are available, and 76.00% of the 37 ventilators also still available for use. As of 28 June 2021, 157,474 Caraganons were vaccinated against COVID-19.
DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATION SECTOR Public Order and Safety
The Region reported 1,288 crimes, lower by 17.19% compared to the previous quarter. This corresponds to 255 fewer crimes compared to the 1,483 crimes reported in the first quarter of 2021. Of the total crime volume reported, 293 are index crimes or crimes against persons while 935 are non-index crimes or violations of special laws. Theft due to unemployment and survival in pandemic times increased
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the index crimes. On the other hand, the decrease in non-index crimes is due to intensified campaigns to end domestic violence, loose firearms, illegal logging, illegal drugs, illegal gambling, and other illegal activities; and law enforcement operations such as Oplan Bakal-Sita and Oplan Katok. The strict implementation of quarantine protocols, liquor ban, and curfew hours also contributed to the overall reduction in crime volumes. The crime solution efficiency or the percentage of solved cases out of the total number of crime incidents handled by law enforcement agencies recorded at 51.00%, lower by 10.00% compared to the report in the first quarter of 2021 at 61.00%. The decline was due to victims and/ or complainants not pursuing file charges due to lack of interest or amicable settlement. On the other hand, crime clearance efficiency or the percentage of cleared cases out of the total number of crime incidents remained at 97.00%. Good rapport and strengthened collaboration with community stakeholders, particularly in the identification of suspects, contributed to effective crime prevention and efficient crime clearance.
Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) Registration About 740,252 Caraganons have completed Step 1 of the PhilSys registration, which collects demographic data. In June 2021, PSA-Caraga launched the Step 2 registration and 250,202 Caraganons the step and are waiting for the issuance of their PhilSys Number (PSN) and delivery of their Phil Identification (PhilID).
INFRASTRUCTURE SECTOR Transportation Vehicle registration slightly decreased by 8.26% with 70,475 vehicle registrations recorded. Butuan City has the most registration while Dapa, Surigao del Norte has the least registration. Also, the issuance of driver’s
licenses decreased by 23.81% with only 13,923 licenses issued. Most licenses were issued in Butuan City, Tandag City, Prosperidad (Patin-ay), Agusan del Sur, and Bislig City, Surigao del Sur. Arrangements made to curb COVID-19 contributed to the reduced registration and issuance of driver’s licenses. Ship calls or the number of vessels that call or arrive at a the port at any given time increased by 23.08%. Of the total shipcalls reported, 91% (307) are domestic and 9% (29) are foreign. The increase in shipcalls was due to the resumption of Roll On/Roll Off (RoRo) vessels operations bound for Bohol. Shipcalls from other government ports such as in Cabinet, Cabadbaran Agusan del Norte and Tubay, Agusan del Norte also contributed to increased shipcalls for the period. In terms of passenger traffic, PMO Agusan recorded 18,184 passengers. Around 8,535 were embarking passengers while 9,649 were disembarking passengers. Passenger statistics from first to second quarter of 2021 increase by 54.10% due to ease in travel restrictions. Cargo throughput or the total
volume of cargo discharged and loaded at the port registered at 463,383 metric tons of foreign cargoes and 1,469,180 metric tons of domestic cargoes. The increase in the cargo throughput by 15.57%, from 1,672,197 metric tons in first quarter to 1,932,563 metric tons in the second quarter of 2021 is attributed to the increased shipment of sand and gravel from Cabinet, Cabadbaran, Agusan del Norte and of nickel ore in private ports at Tubay, Agusan del Norte.
Infrastructure Projects
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Caraga reported 10 completed projects with a total project cost of PhP456.94 million. Of these 10, four are in Surigao del Norte, two are in Agusan del Norte, two are in Agusan del Norte, one is in in Agusan del Sur, and one in Surigao del Sur.
DEVELOPMENT PROSPECTS Economic Sector
Executive Order 130, series of 2021, signed on April 14, 2021 lifted the nine-year moratorium on granting new mining permits. This EO will signal the resumption of mining
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project applications processing. The EO directs the DENR to formulate terms and conditions in the new mining agreements that will maximize government revenue and share from production. The lifting of the moratorium is expected to contribute to reviving the Country’s economy amid the pandemic. It will stimulate countryside development through creation of more opportunities and jobs in rural areas hosting mining activities.
Social Sector
A detailed prioritization framework has been identified to facilitate COVID-19 vaccination. The WHO Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization recommended the framework and approved by the Interim National Immunization Technical Advisory Group. The framework is divided into three priority groups each with various subgroups. In June 2021, the DOH started inoculating the Priority Eligible A4 given near completion of A1-A3 priority subgroups. The expanded A4 priority group includes private sector workers who need to be physically present in their workplace, all government employees, informal sector workers and self-employed individuals who work outside their homes, and those working in private households. The DOH-Caraga will continue to vaccinate the first four subgroups under Priority Eligible A and will prepare the vaccination of the A5 subgroup. Also, automated contract tracing through text messages and emails as well as the use of applications like the StaySafe PH and Traze Contract Tracing will be intensified. Further, after the approval by President Rodrigo R. Duterte, the Department of Education has finalized the calendar for school year 2021-2022. The opening of classes will be on September 13, 2021 and will end on June 24, 2022. Enrollment will start on August 16 until September 13, 2021. Given the pandemic and threat from more
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dangerous variants, face-to-face classes will not be allowed, unless permitted by the President. Classes will continue to feature blended learning and ensure learning continuity through the implementation of the Basic Education – Learning Continuity Plan.
Development Administration Sector
Local government units will start preparing their respective Devolution Transition Plans with the issuance of the Implementing Rules and Regulations of EO 138, series of 2021 July 2, 2021. Capacity building activities will be undertaken headed by the Department of the Interior and Local Government – Local Government Academy as oversight. On the other hand, the implementation of the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises (CREATE) will pursue after the issuance of its IRR June 21, 2021. The law cuts the regular Corporate Income Tax rate by up to 10.00%, from 30.00% to 20.00% for domestic corporations with a taxable income of PhP5 million and below, and with total assets of not more than PhP100 million; and 25% for big corporations with assets of above PhP100.00 million. Moreover, the law also provides for enhanced incentives package that is performance-based, time-bound, targeted, and transparent. CREATE is expected to attract investments and generate quality jobs, which will improve the standards of living of Filipinos. Meanwhile, the Commission on Elections has heightened its campaign for voter registration for the 2022 National and Local Election on May 9, 2021. On June 15, 2021, the COMELEC launched its mobile registration to cater qualified voters in far-flung areas. The mobile application is usable offline. However, it is only applicable to more than 500 pilot areas with no to poor internet service, but access to other areas may be provided upon
the request of the Election Officer. Beginning May 10, 2021, new voter registration schedule was implemented for areas placed under General Community Quarantine (GCQ), MGCQ, or no quarantine. The new voter registration schedule will be from Mondays to Fridays, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the Election Officer Office. More people are expected to register to vote until deadline on September 30, 2021. On a separate note, political parties and aspirant candidates will begin preelection activities following the calendar of activities relative to the 2022 NLE issued by the COMELEC through Resolution No. 10695, Series of 2021.
Infrastructure Sector
The fourth generation (4G) cellphone network coverage provided by Dito Telecommunity, the new entrant and the third major telecommunications provider in the Philippines, is already available in Butuan City and the Province of Agusan del Sur, covering Bayugan City and the Municipalities of Rosario, San Francisco, Santa Josefa, and Trento. Dito is looking to expand into other areas in the next few months and targets to be available nationwide by mid-2021. Motor Vessel (MV) Maligaya, the largest passenger vessel of 2GO Shipping Lines with a passenger capacity of 800, gross tonnage of 29,046, and a length overall (LOA) of 195 meters shall start its weekly voyage to Cebu-Manila from Nasipit and vice versa beginning July 2021, replacing a smaller vessel. Moreover, Starlite Ferries, a new player, is also expected to ply CebuNasipit route and vice-versa three times a week starting August/ September 2021 with MV Starlite Saturn. RoRo/passenger vessel MV Starlite Saturn has a passenger capacity of 685, a gross tonnage of 2,700 and a LOA of 66.8 meters. Full report available at: https:// nro13.neda.gov.ph/publications/caragaregional-economic-situationer/
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2021 Q2 Regional Project Monitoring Report No.
Name of Project & Components
Negative Slippage (Behind Schedule) 1 Construction of Three-Storey Academic Building 2 Construction of Revetment Along Tago River 3 Construction of Three-Storey Dormitory Building 4 Concreting of Bucac-Marcelina-MahapagSan Vicente Farm-to-Market Road (Package 3: Concreting of San VicenteMahapag Farm-to-Market Road) 5 Libang River Irrigation Project Construction of Service Road and Drainage Structure 6 Construction/Improvement of IT Complex
Location
Tandag City, Surigao del Sur Tago, Surigao del Sur Tandag City, Surigao del Sur Prosperidad and San Luis, Agusan del Sur
Project Cost PhP M
Status
38.96
Ongoing
50.00
Ongoing
17.99
Ongoing
197.91
Ongoing
Esperanza, Agusan del Sur
100.45
Ongoing
Cantilan, Surigao del
41.16
Ongoing
7 Concreting of Lauan – Tud-ol Farm-toMarket Road 8 Construction/ Improvement of Access Road leading to Seaports - Nasipit Buenavista- Masao Port Coastal Road Leading to Masao Port 9 Concreting of Bay-ang-Mahaba Farm-toMarket Road with Bridge 10 Construction/Rehabilitation of Multi-
Butuan City
158.93
Ongoing
Butuan City
134.75
Ongoing
Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte Cantilan, Surigao del
148.42
Ongoing
40.00
Ongoing
11 Concreting of Mahapag-Doña Maxima Farm-to-Market Road
San Luis, ADS
Ongoing
12 Kitcharao Communal irrigation systems Kitcharao Small Reservoir Irrigation Project (CY 2020) - Improvement of Irrigation Facilities
Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte
129.13 (152.86 with variation order) 6.43
13 Concreting of Bucac-Marcelina-MahapagSan Vicente Farm-to-Market Road (Package 2: Concreting of MarcelinaMahapag Farm-to-Market Road), Agusan del Sur 14 Gibong River Irrigation System Construction of Concrete Canal Lining, Canal Structures and Spreading of Aggregates for Service Road
San Luis, Agusan del Sur
204.82 (212.23 with Variation Order)
Ongoing
39.30
Ongoing
Esperanza, Agusan del Sur
Ongoing
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Completed projects
Project title 15 19NO005 Construction/ Improvement of Access Road leading to Trades, Industries and Access Road leading to Nasipit – Agusan del Norte Industrial Estate Special Economic Zone (NANIESEZ) 16 20NO0075 Access Road leading to Nasipit – Agusan del Norte Industrial Estate Special Economic Zone (NANIESEZ) – Package 1 17 20NO0076 Access Road leading to Nasipit – Agusan del Norte Industrial Estate Special Economic Zone (NANIESEZ) – Package 2 18 18NO0032 Widening of Permanent Bridges to more than 2 lanes, Wawa Bridge (B00896MN) along Daang Maharlika (Agusan - Davao Section),Sibagat, Agusan Del Sur 19 20NO0091 NRJ - Mayor Democrito D. Plaza II Avenue – Las Nieves – Sibagat Road – Section 1 20 19NO0045 Construction of Bypass and Diversion Roads – Daang Maharlika (Alternate Route) NRJ- Mayor Democrito D. Plaza II Avenue – Las Nieves – Sibagat Road, Package 6, Agusan del Norte 21 18NO0067 Cluster 3.1-2: Construction of Missing Links, Completion of the East-West Lateral Road Connecting Agusan del Sur / Agusan del Norte to Bukidnon, Sampaguita - Makilos (Agusan del Sur / Bukidnon Boundary) Package 5-6, Agusan del Sur 22 18NO0054 Cluster 2: Construction of Missing Links, Completion of the EastWest Lateral Road Connecting Agusan del Sur / Agusan del Norte to Bukidnon, Sampaguita - Makilos (Agusan del Sur / Bukidnon Boundary) Package 7-8, Agusan del Sur 23 Construction of Sea Wall, Brgy. Consuelo, Cantilan, Surigao del Sur 24 Construction of Seawall, Brgy. San Pedro, Cantilan, Surigao del Sur 25 Construction of Dike Along Tago River Basin, Anahao, Tago, Surigao del Sur 26 Construction of Shoreline Protection at Poblacion, Lingig, Surigao del Sur 27 Libang River Irrigation Project Construction of Office Building 28 Balequian CIS (CY 2020) Construction/Improvement of Irrigation Facilities CIS-19-2020-ASDI-IMO 29 Jaliobong CIS (CY 2020) Improvement of Irrigation Facilities 30 Hinatuan District Hospital (Construction of Doctors Quarters / Upgrading of Hospital Phase VI / Provision of Fire Devices 31 Upgrading of Hinatuan Hospital (Phase V) 32 Lingig Community Hospital (Completion of Admin. Building & ER Complex) 33 Construction of Three-Storey Dormitory Building 34 I-REAP Civil Works: Infra Component of Rubber Production and Marketing
Project Cost, PhP M
Date of Completion
Colophon Agency
120.62
June 11, 2020 DPWH RO
101.32
March 22, 2021 DPWH RO
101.32
March 22, 2021 DPWH RO
173.70
June 2, 2020 DPWH RO
Edition Caraga Today Volume XXIV Issue 3 July—September 2021 Publisher Caraga Regional Development Council
Address NEDA-Caraga Building JP Rosales Avenue, Butuan City 8600 Telephone 085 342-5774
101.32
March 25, 2021 DPWH RO
120.00
April 10, 2021 DPWH RO
Email nro13@neda.gov.ph Online Version issuu.com/nedacaraga
385.99
March 15, 2020 DPWH RO
578.99
March 21, 2020 DPWH RO
50.00
July 18, 2021 DPWH
50.00
August 2, 2021 DPWH
50.00
December 25, 2020 DPWH
47.10
February 16, 2021 DPWH
9.84
May 30, 2021 NIA
6.89
June 10, 2021 NIA
3.15
May 31, 2021 NIA
26.50
December 24, 2020 DOH Caraga
4.00
September 24, 2018 DOH Caraga
7.00
September 18, 2020 DOH Caraga
16.25
April 15, 2021 SDSSU
8.42
December 19, 2019 DA
Editor-in-Chief RD Priscilla R. Sonido Associate Editor ARD Gemima A. Olam Managing Editor Melanie A. Maur Writers Sherwin E. Verdun Amethyst Joy A. Galos John Christopher Y. Lim Kris Jane E. de Rama Maria Conception G. Duro Patricia B. Radaza Contributors Geoffrey J. Abendaño, DBM
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NEDA-Caraga is now Safety Seal certified by Kris Jane de Rama, NEDA-Caraga
NEDA-Caraga is now a Safety Seal – certified agency after inspected by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Philippine National Police, and Bureau of Fire Protection on July 22, 2021. The Safety Seal Certificate is granted to offices that complied with the requirements of the Joint Memorandum Circular 21-01 of DILG, Department of Labor and Employment, Department of Health, Department of Tourism, and Department of Trade and Industry. Said certification program aims to increase compliance of establishments on the implementation of public health standards and increase confidence as the country reopens the economy.
NEDA-Caraga Regional Director Priscilla Sonido (second from left) and Assistant Regional Director Gemima Olam during the conferment of Safety Seal Certification by the DILG and BFP Caraga.
Caraga RGADC, PCW conduct gender mainstreaming orientation by Maria Conception G. Duro, NEDACaraga
The Regional Development Council – Regional Gender and Development Committee (RDC-RGADC) in partnership with the Philippine Commission on Women conducted a one-day In-Depth Orientation on the Gender Mainstreaming and Evaluation Framework (GMEF) on August 6, 2021, via online. The GMEF tool will help the GAD Focal Point System (GFPS) of the participating offices to measure gender mainstreaming efforts and identify areas for improvement in their respective organizations. It will also capacitate the GFPS members to strategically mainstream the GAD perspective in the entry points of the organization, namely policy, people, enabling mechanism, and programs, projects, and activities.
This orientation aimed to promote the application of GMEF as a gender analysis tool to enhance the GAD perspective of each government agency and ultimately contribute to achieving genderresponsive social development and
economic growth in the Region. About 324 GFPS members of the regional line agencies, state universities and colleges, and local government units in the Caraga Region participated the orientation.
