PIA News Service - Thursday, Sept. 16, 2010

12th Siargao National Surfing Cup opens on Friday

By Fryan E. Abkilan

SURIGAO DEL NORTE (16 September) - The much awaited national surfing event in the country will finally kick-off at Cloud 9, Gen. Luna in Siargao Island this province on Friday, September 17, 2010. 

Gov. Sol Matugas said that around 86 confirmed local surfing enthusiasts all over the country will compete over the next five days from Sep. 17 to Sep. 21, 2010. The event is part of the month-long festivity in the island dubbed as the 1st Siargao Surfing Festival with its theme: “Kabibo 2010.”

The lady governor said that aside from the formal opening of the local surfing cup, other activities will also commence tomorrow, these include: The 1st Gov. Sol Matugas Open Beach Volleyball Challenge, Agri-Aqua Trade Fair, Best Municipal Booth, Kabibo Hip-hop Dance Competition, Photo-shoot Competition and Nightly Yugyugan Open Party at the town’s boulevard sponsored by San Miguel Beer. 

With all these series of activities, Gov. Matugas is hopeful that the local tourism industry cannot only bring prestige but most importantly, create jobs to the locals and hopefully achieve quality life and at the same time help boost the economy of the province.

Gov. Matugas also bared that Ilocos Norte representative, Hon. Imee Marcos and mayor of Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte, Hon. Maja Sales have confirmed there attendance to be the guests of honor in the event.

Reports revealed that 1st Dist. Rep. Francisco Matugas, 2nd Dist. Rep. Guillermo Romarate, Surigao City Mayor Ernesto Matugas, LMP President Sheila Mae Orquina-Cebedo and around 20 mayors of the province are fully supportive of the activity and will also grace the event tomorrow. (PIA-Surigao del Norte)


Robredo cites anti-jueteng measures

Secretary Jesse M. Robredo of the Department of the Interior and Local Government said today that his department is implementing a comprehensive three-point agenda to stamp out the illegal numbers game of “jueteng” in the country.

Robredo cited the department’s anti-jueteng strategies as better law enforcement, strengthening of the Small Town Lottery (STL) as alternative to jueteng, and adoption of measures to keep people away from the culture of gambling.

He explained that the first strategy pertains to the intensified police operations against jueteng activities, the arrest of suspected gambling personnel, confiscation of bets and gambling paraphernalia, and filing of appropriate charges in court.  

“As early as July, I have directed then Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Director Gen. Jesus Verzosa to conduct a nationwide campaign to stamp out jueteng, as well as validate reports that the operation of STL is being used as front for the illegal numbers game,” Robredo said.

In a memorandum dated July 26, the PNP chief informed the DILG secretary that all PNP units have been directed to intensify the campaign against all forms of illegal gambling particularly jueteng and its derivatives, and to submit a weekly accomplishment report to the office of the chief PNP.

Robredo also said that close collaboration with the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office had been undertaken last July concerning the need for strengthening the STL project as an alternative approach to jueteng.

“I’ve met several times PCSO Chairperson Margarita Juico and submitted to her a number of recommendations to further reinforce the existing policies on the STL project,” he added.

Some of the measures recommended to the PCSO are: STL should be operated following the traditional methodology of jueteng operations; the Authorized Agent Corporations (AACs) shall be given a fixed monthly “presumptive gross sales” which shall be included in their respective franchise provisions; amendment of STL franchising scheme with franchise awarded per municipality or city, after consultation with the LGU, the PNP and other local stakeholders.  
  
Other recommendations include, amendment of the STL charity fund percentage sharing scheme; to ensure transparency and fairness, PCSO should conduct all the regular covered by national television; the minimum prize money will be equivalent to the jueteng winnings; and monitoring of the actual STL gross sales.

Robredo emphasized that a more holistic approach involving the active participation of various stakeholders, particularly the local government units and the private sectors including non-government and civic organizations, must be put in place to address the socio-economic aspects of illegal gambling.

To aid in these efforts, the DILG chief, as Chairman of NAPOLCOM, created a Special Project Group last week, composed of officials of the Inspection, Monitoring and Investigation Service (IMIS). The Special Project Group’s main function is to review and audit the operations of the PNP as safeguard against syndicates and organized crimes, including jueteng. (DILG/PIA-Caraga)


4ID reaches out to children

As Filipinos, we all have dreamt of having a peaceful and progressive nation, a nation that is safe and secure for our future generation to live in - this is our primordial responsibility and accountability to our children. 

We all would like to make our country and our world a better place to live in, to ensure a bright and prospective tomorrow for our children, that is why the ARMY, especially the 4th Infantry Diamond Troopers, is taking an active role to achieve this endeavor.

Through the supervision and guidance of MAJ GEN VICTOR A FELIX AFP, Commander, 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division, Diamond Troopers are reaching out to the community through the children as a way of showing concern and commitment in ensuring a peaceful and progressive environment that is conducive for the children’s developmental growth as the future of our generation.

As part of this commitment, 4ID will provide utmost support to the “BATANG HIMSOG” Program, an in-School Health and Nutrition Feeding and Livelihood Program, an initiative of Anak Mindanao Partylist (AMIN) in partnership with the Department of Education, Local Government Units and the Katilingbanong Pamahandi sa Mindanaw Foundation Inc. (KMPFI), to help lessen and slowly eradicate malnutrition in the rural barangay schools within Misamis Oriental.

The Batang Himsog Program aims to address the problem of malnutrition by providing daily breakfast to at least 4,000 grade 1 pupils in 85 schools of Gingoog City, Claveria, Magsaysay and MISORET town.

The 4ID is optimistic in this program in that it could help children in the rural areas to receive proper nutrition and education so that they can become healthy and full of promise, ready to take on any challenge and opportunity that they shall meet as they grow up.

Also a part of this commitment to reach out to the children, 4th Infantry Division welcomed pre-school students from the Lifetime Study Center, Cagayan de Oro City during their educational tour inside Camp Evangelista last 14 September 2010.

The children viewed Armor Tanks and 105MM Cannons. They were also met warmly by the Diamond Troopers who interacted and mingled with them. 

4ID personnel proved that they are not only the protectors of the land but they are also their partners in community and nation building and that these children and their parents can depend on them in their dream of having a better and brighter atmosphere that is viable for their growth and well-being.

Through these efforts of the Division, the Diamond Troopers are leading the way in showing their concern and commitment to our children in helping promote a better environment and opportunity for them to live peacefully and harmoniously as our future and our hope in the coming generations. (4th CMO Bn, 4ID, PA/PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Wednesday, Sept. 15, 2010

FDA-Caraga bares unsafe, dangerous cosmetic products

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY – The Food and Drug Administration (formerly Bureau of Food and Drugs) of the Department of Health (DOH) Caraga released FDA Circular No. 2010-015, “declaring the identified products to be imminently injurious, unsafe or dangerous and authorizing the FDA inspectors to seize said products from the public sale or distribution”.

In a press conference spearheaded by DOH, Ms. Perla Alvizo, Food and Drug Regulation Officer bared that FDA have found through laboratory examination that the samples of the following cosmetic products that were collected on separate occasions at various establishments/outlets are dangerous. 

Said products are as follows: 1) St. Dalfour Beauty Whitening Cream made from Tokyo, Japan; 2) Beauty Girl Papaya & Hawthorn Essence (10 double whitening speckles removed essence) made from Yudantang International – Taiwan; 3) Beauty Girl Ginseng & Green Cucumber (10 double whitening speckles removed) made from Yudantang International – Taiwan; 4) Beauty Girl Essence Aloe Pearl (10 double whitening speckles removed essence) made from Yudantang International – Taiwan; and 5) Beauty Girl Olive & Sheep Essence (10 double whitening speckles removed essence) made from Yudantang International – Taiwan.

“These cosmetic products therefore pose imminent danger or injury to the consuming public and the importation, selling or offering for sale of such is in direct violation of Republic Act No. 9711 or the Food and Drug Administration Act of 2009,” added Alvizo.

Alvizo also stressed that in the interest of protecting public health and safety and pursuant to Section 12 of Republic Act No. 9711, the Food and Drug Regulation Officers (both from FDA central office and the regions) are hereby ordered to seize immediately the identified cosmetic products for custody from all outlets or establishments where they may be found. 

The assistance of all local government units and consumers are sought in reporting all outlets found selling the said products. (PIA-Caraga/DOH-13)
 
 
DOH, PhilHealth to launch NPRD in Caraga

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY – The Department of Health (DOH) and Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) in coordination with other partner agencies will launch the Nationwide PhilHealth Registration Day (NPRD) dubbed as “PhilHealth Sabado, Magseguro, Magparehistro” on October 2, 2010 in Caraga region.

In a press conference spearheaded by DOH, Ms. Parley Buyan, PhilHealth-Caraga Information Officer said that their office with DOH and other partner agencies are calling all Caraganons who are not yet members of PhilHealth to register on Oct. 2 and be counted among the millions who are now covered by the government’s health insurance program. 

“The whole-day registration activity nationwide is aimed at ensuring that all Filipinos could gain access to financial protection for their hospitalization needs thru PhilHealth,” Buyan added.

DOH-Caraga Information Officer - Ms. Sunshine Alipayo also said that the purpose of the said activity is to better inform the public about PhilHealth member’s benefits, rights, responsibilities, and to encourage and facilitate registration and membership.

Alipayo further said that all regional and service offices of PhilHealth, as well as the DOH’s Center for Health Development and DOH-retained hospitals nationwide have been identified as access points for the registration activity. Other registration venues in the provinces of Caraga will be announced as soon as these are confirmed with the Department of Education (DepEd) and participating local government units. 

It was also learned that the desks will be manned by PhilHealth personnel who will assist the registrants in the entire registration procedure.

Also, during the whole-day event, indigent families who are listed under the National Household Targeting System (NHTS) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) will also be issued their PhilHealth number cards in venues to be identified by the LGUs.

For more information, contact PhilHealth-Caraga at (085) 341-6488 thru Ms. Parley Buyan or DOH-Caraga at (085) 341-2579 thru Ms. Sunshine Alipayo. (PIA-Caraga/DOH-13)


Cebuano News: DOH gibutyag ang status sa dengue sa Caraga

Ni Michael Imbo

BUTUAN CITY - Ang Department of Health (DOH) Caraga Region mibutyag nga misaka na sa kapin usa ka gatos ka porsyentio ang kaso sa dengue sa tibuok rehiyon sa Caraga human nga adunay naitalang 1,768 dengue cases.

Sa gipahigayong press conference kagahapon, September 14 didto sa buhatan sa Caraga Regional Office sa DOH, gipagawas sa maong ahensiya ang status sa kaso sa dengue ug aron mahatagan sa tukmang impormasyon ang mga katawhan sa rehiyon.

Si Dr. Gerna Manatad sa Department of Health (DOH) Caraga ang nagkanayon nga ang pagsaka sa kaso sa dengue dili angayan nga kabalak-an, wala kini nagpasabot nga alarming na ang rehiyon sa maong sakit.

Sa nakuhang impormasyon nasayran nga adunay naitalang naigo sa kaso sa dengue gikan sa dakbayan sa Butuan-668, Agusan del Sur-400, Surigao del Norte-209, Bislig City, 162, Surigao City-152, Agusan del Norte-135, Surigao del Sur-134, Bayugan City-69, Cabadbaran City-33, Dinagat Islands-24 ug Tandag City-15.

Luyo sa maong pagtaas sa kaso sa dengue, gitug-an ni Dr. Manatad nga nagpadayon ang ilang buhatan sa pagbuhat og tukmang lakang ug mga information campaign batok sa makamatay'ng sakit.

Ang DOH kaabag ang kagamhanang lokal, ug uban pa nga ahensya sa tibuok rehiyon ang nakig-koordinasyon na aron malikay sa maong sakit ug mahatagan sa aksyon ang kada probinsya nga naapektahan sa maong kaso.

Dugang niana nga gipanawagan sa ahensya ang kumunidad nga mintinahon ang paghinlo sa palibot aron walay lugar nga mahimong kapuy-an sa mga lamok nga nagdala sa maong sakit. (PIA-Caraga)


Wage Board 13 present new wage hike implementing rules

The Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board-XIII, presented in a press conference, the rules and regulations implementing Wage Order No. RXIII-10 at the DOLE-13 conference room, DOLE-13 Office at Nimfa Tiu Bldg., J.P. Rosales Ave., 9:30 A.M. today.

The 20-page document contains RULE-1 : The General Provisions; RULE -2: The New Minimum Wage Rates; RULE-3: Exemptions and RULE-4: The Special Provisions. It was approved by the board on August 12, 20 10, duly signed by former board chairperson Atty. Romeo N. Cagas, Vice Chairpersons Dir. Carmencita S. Conchingco (NEDA-13) and Dir. Brielgo O. Pagaran (DTI-13), Board Members Mr. George Uy and Ms. Jocelyn F. Yee, (employer representatives) Mr. Joselito V. Soriano and Mr. Rolando C. Dahang (labor representatives).

The IRR was signed by Labor Secretary Rosalinda D. Baldoz on August 26, 2010. The Caraga Wage Order No. RXIII-10 provides the daily minimum wage rates (DMWR) of agricultural workers (plantation), a basic wage P220.00, plus a cost of living allowance of P13.00 or a DMWR of P233.00. Agricultural workers (non-plantation) will be receiving a basic wage of P200.00, plus P13.00 cost of living allowance or a DMWR of P213.00. Non-agricultural workers will be receiving a basic wage of P230.00 plus P13.00 cost of living allowance or a total DMWR of P243.00. The retail and service workers will receive a basic wage of P200.00 plus p13.00 cost of living allowance or a total DMWR of P213.00 (for those employing 10 persons or less) and P230.00 basic wage plus P13.00 COLA or a DMWR of P243.00 (for those who are employing more than 10 workers).

The new minimum wage rate took effect on August 25, of this year. Dir. Domingo said that the wage board’s previous nine wage orders enjoyed a 65 % compliance rating among the inspected establishments in the region. She disclosed that there were a total of 276 business establishments inspected by the board this year and 182 of these had shown compliance to their previous wage orders. The board she said is optimistic that the new wage order may have the benefit of similar compliance.

Board Secretary Dela Victoria also stressed the importance of the approval of the IRR for this is “the basis,” he said “for some establishments specially the larger ones of implementing the new wage hike.” And for the new establishments, he also said that this will provide them the chance of the sixty-day period to apply for exemption of implementing the new wage increase. Other business categories, he said may also avail of the 75-day period allowed for the application of exemptions. He said that during the implementation of their previous wage orders they received a number of applications for exemptions. As for the new wage order, they will give time until November 27 of this year to receive the applications for exemption. The concerned establishments may just submit their applications to the DOLE field offices in their respective areas on or before the said date.

Attending the press forum were RTWPB Chairperson and DOLE-13 Dir. Ofelia B. Domingo, Board Secretary Earl D. Dela Victoria and other RTWPB board members. The IRR is pursuant to Section 6, Rule IV of the Amended Rules of Procedure on Minimum Wage Fixing and Section 21 of Wage Order No. RXIII-10, issued for the guidance and compliance by all concerned business establishments in the region. (Noel B. Najarro, The Butuan Star/PIA-Caraga)


Dengue cases in Caraga exceeds 2000th mark

Suspected Dengue cases in Caraga region has reached a total of 2001, as reported by the Department of Health Center for Health Development – Caraga Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit, in its “Disease Surveillance Report” during the period of its 36th Morbidity Week, from September 5-11, this year.

The figure, according to Dr. Gerna Manatad, DOH-13 CHD Regional Epidemiologist said in a press conference this morning, was based on admission reports from the different disease reporting hospitals in the region from January 1-September 9, 2010. This is 168% higher compared to the record of the same period last year which only had 746 cases.

She assured however that even with 8 deaths already recorded due to the disease, no “Dengue Outbreak” was declared anywhere in the region. The data gathered from the reports reaching their office tends to show that the cases of the said mosquito-borne disease here in the region fall below the epidemic threshold. The assessment of the places affected by the disease, Dr. Manatad said, were also done down to the barangay level and that so far no barangay was declared “dengue hot spot” based on their monitoring of the frequency of the suspected dengue cases for the past two weeks from August 29-September 19. They only had monitored a barangay in Butuan City with three suspected cases during the period and that is Brgy. Libertad.

Butuan City still topped the list as to the number of cases with (668), followed by Agusan del Sur (400); Surigao del Norte (209); Bislig City (162); Surigao City (152); Agusan del Norte (135); Surigao del Sur (134); Bayugan City (69); Cabadbaran City (33); Dinagat Islands (24) and Tandag City (15).

The deaths came from Cabadbaran (1); Magallanes, Agusan del Norte (1); San Francisco, Surigao del Norte (1); Surigao City (2); Del Carmen, Surigao del Norte (1); Malimono, Surigao del Norte (1) and Bayugan City (1).

The ages of the victims ranges from 2 months old to 84 yers old with majority of the cases were male (52%). Foty-two percent of the cases belonged to 0 to 10 years age group. (Noel B. Najarro, The Butuan Star/PIA-Caraga)


POLICE REPORTS
By PO3 Criselda Bulahao-Nalam

PNP arrests wanted person 

On September 13, 2010 at around 10:35 in the morning, at Quezon St. Brgy Dagocdoc, Tandag, Surigao del Sur, one (1) Winsor Malacaste, 59 years old, married, and a resident of Aras-asan, Cagwait, Surigao del Sur was arrested by PO1 Abelardo Jacinto, Intel Operative of Tandag Municipal Police Station by virtue of warrant of arrest issued by Hon. Judge Ambrosio N Moleta Presiding Judge of 4th MCTC of Cagwait-Bayabas, Surigao del Sur for grave oral defamation docketed under cc# 1853 with fixed bail bond of Six Thousand Pesos Only (Php 6,000.00).

Subject person is now detained at Tandag Police Station for proper disposition. 

On the other hand, at around 1:50 in the afternoon on September 14, 2010, one Jay Alimpoos, 36 years old, married, driver mechanic and a resident of Brgy Poblacion, Bayugan, Agusan del Sur, was arrested by the PNP personnel of Bayugan Police Station led by Po3 Melvin Dandasan by virtue of warrant of arrest issued by Hon Lou A Nueva, acting Presiding Judge of 5th MCTC (Bayugan-Sibagat), Bayugan City dated 10th day of August 2010 for CONCUBINAGE docketed under cc# 8966-10-G-41 with recommended fixed bail bond amounting to Ten Thousand Pesos Only (Php 10,000.00) for his temporary liberty.

Subject person is now temporary detained at Bayugan Police Station for proper disposition. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Report on fire incident 

On September 14, 2010 around 2:00 in the morning at Purok-5, Brgy 3, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte, a residential house made of wooden material, owned by Rodolfo Bautista located at abovementioned place, occupied by several boarders was totally razed by fire including three (3) neighboring houses owned by Juliana Bacor, Baldomero Zayas and Gloria Caquejo.

Initial investigation disclosed that the fire started at the room of the said house, occupied by Jingle and Neca Escol both school teachers when the electric wiring sparks that caused fire and quickly spread out to the entire building and neighboring houses. 

The said incident was declared fire out by the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) of Buenavista at 4:00 in the morning of same date.

Estimated total cost of fire damage amounted to more or less seven hundred thousand pesos (Php 700,000.00). Case is now in the process of investigation by the BFP of Buenavista for proper disposition. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Report on robbery incident 

On September 13, 2010 at around 7:00 in the evening at Brgy Alba, Tago, Surigao del Sur, one (1) Jose Moreno, 72 years old, married, businessman and a resident of abovementioned place together with his wife and maids was robbed by certain Rodel Paculba together with five (5) unidentified suspects.

Initial investigation disclosed that the suspects armed with short firearms, gain entrance thru the back gate of the said residence, while the victims were resting. At gunpoint declared hold up carted away personal belongings and thirteen thousand five hundred pesos (Php 13, 500.00).Victims were hogtied.

After the incident, the suspect fled to unknown direction. Elements of Tago Municipal Police Station are now conducting follow-up investigation for possible arrest of the suspects. Progress report to follows. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Report on shooting incident 

On September 13, 2010 around 7:25 in the evening at Rotunda, Brgy Poblacion, Bayugan City, one Danilo Ursabia, 50 years old, married, motorcycle driver, and a resident of Purok-1, Brgy Salvacion, Bayugan City was shot by unidentified suspect riding in tandem with the used of undetermined caliber of short firearms.

Victim sustained one gunshot wound on his nape. Upon receipt of reported incident, PNP elements of Bayugan CPS led by PINSP CZYMEERE NICANOR ATEO-AN VALENCERINA immediately proceeded to the place of incident to conduct investigation.
Initial investigation revealed that during the incident, the astray bullet also hit another tricycle driver named Brendo Virano, 35 years old, married, and a resident of Purok-8, Brgy Taglatawan, Bayugan City who sustained one gun shot wound on his back. Both victims were immediately rushed to Bayugan Community Hospital for medical treatment and now out of danger.

After the incident, the suspect fled to unknown direction boarding Kawasaki Bajaj single motor cycle without plate number. Bayugan CPS still conducting in dept investigation for the possible identification and arrest of the suspect. Progress report to follow. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Progress report on burning on globe telecom tower 

That on September 13, 2010 at around 7:35 in the evening at Brgy Balibadon, Cortes, Surigao del Sur was burned by more or less 15 CT's led by aka Puma of GF-30, as per info by the care taker of the Globe power that several gunfire was heard and followed by burned at Globe Telecom tower which located in the hilly portion of the aforementioned barangay, afterwhich said group withdraw towards SE direction, going to Sampinit complex. Cost of damage, one (1) unit Generator set, and one (1) unit electronic coven with 2-unit aircon.

Empty shell recovered in the crime scene, such as AK 47, M16, M14, Garrand, Carbine and cal.45. For information. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

On attempted robbery by suspected ct's 

On September 13, 2010 at around 6:20 in the evening at Brgy Buenavista, Tandag, Surigao del Sur, PO2 Madelo Bagnol. PNP member of Tandag Municipal Police Station, was harassed by five (5) unidentified members of CT's/NPA armed with cal. 45 and 9mm pistols.

Initial investigation conducted by Tandag Municipal Police Station disclosed that while PO2 Bagnol was watching television at his residence at the abovementioned place, five (5) unidentified persons approached him and pretending to ask for Police assistance with the allegation that their companion was mauled by standers.

When victim replied that he will follow after them, suddenly the five (5) suspects draw their firearms and pointed the same unto him declaring that they are members of the NPA and demanded to get his issued firearms which prompted the victim to grab the 9mm FA's from one of the members of the said group but the other members managed to box and kick him until he fell down.

Suspects fired twice before they left. Victim sustained injuries at the different parts of his body and was brought to Adela Serra Memorial Medical center. For medical treatment. Elements of Tandag Municipal Police Station are conducting follow-up investigation. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Tuesday, Sept. 14, 2010

2 armed men rob bus

Two unidentified men wielding short firearms of undetermined caliber and a bladed weapon, robbed a Butuan-bound bus 6:40 Friday evening, and escaped after divesting the bus conductor with his collections, and also cash, cellular phones and other personal belongings from the passengers.

Reports from Agusan del Sur police reaching police regional headquarters here stated that a certain pastor Andoy y Topas, who claimed to be an acting supervisor of Bachelor Express, Inc. reported to Prosperidad Municipal Police Station, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur; that a unit of their Bachelor Express Bus, bearing Body Number 3165, driven by a certain Antonio Panaranda y Mutya, 32; a resident of Andaya Subdivision, Brgy. Obrero, Butuan City robbed the bus upon reaching a deserted place at Purok 3, Brgy. Sta. Irene of the said town.

The bus supervisor told police investigators that the suspects boarded their bus as it made stopped over at the town’s Bus stop. They then declared hold-up upon reaching the aforementioned place of incident, and brandishing their weapons they collected money, cellular phones and other things from the bus conductor and the passengers.

They then ordered the bus to stop after getting what they’ve wanted, disembarked and escaped to unknown direction.

The suspects took off with them more or less P3,000.00 collection from the conductor of the bus identified as a certain Ramjun I. Albino, 29; a resident of Brgy. Cuyago, Jabonga, Agusan del Norte, and included even the four stubs of the bus tickets and his wallet containing some important documents, a Nokia Cellular phone belonging to Mae Anne Lumapaz y Mosende, 19; a resident of Brgy.Baan Riverside, Butuan City; another Nokia cellular Phone owned by Richard Ranon, 24; resident of Tagvlatawan, bayugan City and cash money amounting to P400.00 from Charlie Jean Layao, 19; of Talacogon, Agusan del Sur.

Prosperidad police took cognizance of the case. Caraga PNP chief CSupt. Lino DG Calingasan, promised to address the problem of highway robbery in an interview after a similar incident a month ago, where another bus of the same company bound for Davao City from Butuan was held up by three Caliber .45 pistol wielding suspects of more or less P100,000.00 divested from the bus personnel and its passengers, including cellular phones and personal belongings 8:20 in the evening as it reached Brgy. Hamogaway, Bayugan City. Calingasan said that he already had orders to the police of the province to resolve the previous case the soonest possible time.

One of the solutions proposed then was to have secret police marshals boarding the plying buses especially at night time. However, information gathered from the insiders of the regional police headquarters that the proposal did not materialize when the bus companies concerned seemed to hesitate in granting free passage to would-be police secret marshals. (Noel B. Najarro, Butuan Star/PIA-Caraga)


1 hurt as armed men harassed police patrol base

A police personnel was hurt when armed men believed to be New Peoples Army rebels harassed a remote police patrol base, Saturday evening.

Reports reaching regional police headquarters from Agusan del Sur police stated that a patrol base belonging to the 13th Regional Public Safety Regional Battalion (13th RPSB) located at Sitio Maitum, Brgy. Langkilaan, Trento, Agusan del Sur; was harassed by more or less 10 armed persons believed to be NPA rebels, 9:11 P.M. Saturday.
 
The raiders were accordingly armed with high powered firearms, led by an unidentified commander. The ensuing firefight, police reports said, lasted for more or less ten minutes. The armed marauders were forced to withdraw to some unknown direction, when the government troopers held fast their ground and defended their post.
 
After the firefight however, it was discovered that one from the government forces identified as Police Officer 1 Charlon M. Montero was slightly hit at the right side of his head and at his lips. He, however, was already given immediate medical attention.
 
A team from the patrol base was sent at 7:00 A.M. yesterday, 200 meters where the enemy was believed to have their position the night before. The police team recovered 7 spent shells of Caliber .30 and 16 spent shells of Caliber 5.36.
 
The government troopers are now conducting hot pursuit operations on the fleeing rebels. (Noel B. Najarro, Butuan Star/PIA-Caraga)


SUDECOR workers denounce CPP-NPA atrocities

CANTILAN, SURIGAO DEL SUR – Hundreds of workers from the Manufacturing Plant in Cantilan and the Woods Group in Carmen, all of Surigao del Sur, denounced the atrocities perpetrated by the CPP-NPA against the Surigao Development Corporation (SUDECOR). In a strongly-worded statement, the workers accused the NPA of undermining the economic activities of the company, thus causing instability in the company’s operations. The workers asserted that the NPAs attacks against the company are an assault to their rights because the state of the company’s finances boils down to the sustainability and certainty of employment. 
Hundreds of Workers at SUDECOR’s Manufacturing Plant in Cantilan watch intently as the video on the burning of logging trucks and equipment in Brgy Pakwan, Lanuza, Surigao del Sur was shown. The video was produced by the CPP-NPA in North Eastern Mindanao Region as they boast about their use of violence in pursuing their cause. 

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Since 1987, SUDECOR has recorded a total of 43 attacks by the CPP-NPA. The said attacks include the burning of more than 80 equipment, and the killing of several company security forces and civilian employees. “’All these are but acts of terror that hurt the lowly workers”, the statement said.

The workers also reacted on the pronouncement made by George Madlos a.k.a. Ka Oris during the CPPs 41st Anniversary that the CPP in North Eastern Mindanao has decided to put a stop to SUDECOR because of the continuing destruction of the forest. Agitated by the warning from the spokesperson of the National Democratic Front-Mindanao, the workers reacted by saying that “we cannot afford to remain silent as the CPP-NPA continues to disrupt the production of the company that has been recognized by the United Nations as a model in sustainable forest management.” 

The worker’s also echoed their calls to the general public to condemn the continuing terroristic attacks of the NPA against a responsible business organization like SUDECOR. “Let us defend the forest by allowing SUDECOR to continue its forest management practices, and let us defend our livelihood by condemning the NPAs so that they may no longer attack the company again”, thus concluded the worker’s statement. (SUDECOR/PIA-Caraga)


Army troopers hits NPA on use of landmines

ANOTHER landmine was discovered by 4th Infantry Division troopers in a week’s row, the latest one in Bunawan, Agusan del Sur.

Last Thursday, soldiers from Bravo Company of the 75th Infantry Battalion and Charlie Company of the 23rd Infantry Battalion discovered the landmine at Rick Island in barangay Sta. Monica of the said town. The 75th Infantry Battalion, headed by Lt.Col Ruben C Agarcio, is based in Bislig City.

It was learned that the landmine made from improvised C4 was intended for anti-tank use.

Earlier this week, another anti-tank landmine was found in barangay Sta. Juana, Tagbina, Surigao del Sur.

4th Infantry Division spokesperson Lt. Col. Triumph Dominic Bagaipo condemned the use of landmines by the New People’s Army (NPA), saying it could endanger not just soldiers but also passing civilians.

Lt.Col. Bagaipo decries these refutable acts perpetrated by the NPA after being tag as terrorists.  

“The NPA continuously harass and blasted to death innocent civilians and foremost of these they do not respect human rights.” Bagaipo said. (4th CMO Bn, 4ID, PA/ PIA-Caraga)


NPA strike anew in Misamis Oriental

A running gun battle occurred last Thursday between soldiers from the 4th Infantry Division and New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in Medina, Misamis Oriental.

4th Infantry Division spokesperson Lt. Col. Triumph Dominic G Bagaipo said the encounter occurred in sitio Labas, Barangay Pagsama of the said town.

A platoon from the 8th Infantry Battalion chanced upon around ten NPA rebels when the encounter occurred.

There was no casualty on the soldiers’ side and casualties on the NPA side could not be determined.

Earlier, another group of Army troopers from the 8th Infantry Battalion discovered a recently abandoned NPA camp in Medina.

Bagaipo identified the place of the discovery as sitio Kabol Kabol in barangay Mananum Daan.

He estimated that the NPA camp could accommodate around 40 rebels when it was yet used.

In the camp, the troops recovered 25 meters of electric wire believed to be used to make landmines. (4th CMO Bn, 4ID, PA/ PIA-Caraga)


POLICE REPORTS
By PO3 Arturo Suganob Campania


Report on highway robbery 

A certain Pastor Andoy, 36 years old, married, acting supervisor of Bachelor Express Inc, reported to Prosperidad Municipal Police Station that one unit Bachelor Express Bus bearing body number 3165 driven by one Antonio Pañarada, 32 years old, married and resident of Andaya Subdivision, Brgy Obrero, Butuan City was allegedly robbed by two unidentified suspects armed with short firearms of unknown caliber and bladed weapon. Suspects carted the following: 

a. cash money amounting to more or less Php 3,000.00 collection of the bus conductor one Ramjun Albino, 29 years old, single and resident of Brgy Cuyago, Jabonga, Agusan del Norte and four stabs of bus ticket and wallet containing important documents; 

b. one unit Nokia cell phone owned by one Mae Anne Lumapaz y Mosende, 19 years old and resident of Baan riverside, Butuan City; 

c. one unit Nokia cell phone owned by Richard Ramon, 24 years old, resident of Brgy Taglatawan, Bayugan City; 

d. Cash money amounting to Php 400.00 from one Charlie Jean Layao, 19 years old and resident of Talacogon, Agusan del Sur. 

Initial investigation disclosed that said suspects boarded said Bachelor Bus from Prosperidad bus stop bound to Butuan City and upon reaching Purok-3, Brgy. Sta Irene, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur, suspects declared hold-up and divested cash money from conductor and personal belongings from the passengers.

After the incident, suspects commanded the bus to stop and disembark and fled to unknown direction. PNP elements of Prosperidad Municipal Police Station took cognizance of the case. Progress report to follows. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)


Accomplishment report on the campaign against illegal drugs 

One Sofronio Antonio, alias “Sophia”, 31 years old, single, resident of Purok-1, Brgy. 7, Cabadbaran City was arrested by PNP elements of Cabadbaran City Police Station led by PSINSP ADRIAN RECENTES ANTOINO during buy bust operation at corner Alaan and Mortola St., Brgy 7, Cabadbaran City on September 11, 2010 at 7:30 pm.

Seized from suspect's possession were one (1) disposable lighter color pink; two (2) small size heat sealed transparent plastic containing suspected shabu with marking "CCPS-1"; One (1) medium size heat sealed transparent plastic containing suspect shabu with marking "CCPS-2"; one (1) piece One Thousand Peso Bill buybust money recovered during the buy bust operation with serial nr ZC886243; one (1) pc one hundred peso bill with serial number WY595646. Appropriate case now prepared for filing in court against the suspect.  

Meanwhile, PNP elements of Butuan City Public Safety Company led by PO3 Feleciano Marcos under the supervision of PCINSP FERDINAND DACILLO conducted operation agaisnt illegal drugs on September 12, 2010 at 1:30 am at Purok 9, Brgy Ong yiu, Butuan City which resulted to the arrest of one Alicasan Banglad y Tomarompong, 18 yrs old, single and res of Purok 3, Brgy 7, Poblacion, Cabadbaran City. Suspect was actually caught in his possession two (2) sachets of suspected shabu; four (4) empty plastic sachets of suspected shabu; one (1) unit cellular phone;; one (1) pc hunting knife measuring six (6) inches and one (1) eyeglasses plastic case. The search was done in an orderly manner in the presence of Brgy Kagawad Nestor Orias and Rodulfo Lambon; and DOJ representative Ronald Bedrijo. Suspect and seized items was brought to Crime Laboratory Office 13 for laboratory examination and drug testing. Case now prepared for filing in court. Progress report to follows. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Report on harrassment 

At around 9:11 in the evening of September 11, 2010, Patrol Base of 13the RPSB situated at Sitio Maitum, Brgy. Langkilaan, Trento, Agusan del Sur was harassed by more or less ten (10) CTs armed with high powered firearms led by unknown Commander. Firefight lasted for about ten (10) minutes, which resulted to wounding in action of one PO1 Charlon M. Montero which was slightly hit at the right side of his head and lips. After the said incident, CTs withdrew towards unknown direction. At around 7:00 am on September 12, 2010, one team from said unit proceeded to the area 200 meters from the base believed to be the position area of the and recovered seven (7) spent shells of cal .30 and 16 spent shells of cal 5.36. Progress report to follows. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Monday, September 13, 2010

A second straight win for SNNHS in Bonok-bonok Maradjao Karadjao Festival

By: Robert E. Roperos

Defending champion Surigao del Norte National High School (SNNHS) once again proved its supremacy as they shown their artistic moves and colorful rendition of the 22nd Bonok-bonok Festival as they won for two straight years in a breath-taking performance held at Surigao del Norte Provincial Sports Center recently in time with Surigao City’s fiesta celebration in honor of Patron Saint – San Nicolas de Tolentino.

Surigao del Norte National High School (SNNHS) in their breath-taking performance during the 22nd Bonok-bonok Festival held in time with Surigao City's fiesta celebration in honor of Señor San Nicolas de Tolentino. SNNHS also won the Best in Street dancing and Best in Choreography awards. (PIA-Caraga)


Aside from winning the title and receiving the cash prize of P100,000, the contingent also won the Best in Street dancing and Best in Choreography awards, receiving P20,000 each.

Second Prize winner is the contingent from the Municipality of Del Carmen, Surigao del Norte. They received P75,000. Meanwhile, the Cagasan Memorial Elem. School in Brgy. Cagniog, Surigao City grabbed the third place position winning P50,000. They also won P20,000 for the contingent with the Best in Musicality.

Bonok-bonok is the Surigaonon’s way of thanksgiving for the bountiful blessings. This event is marked by mardi gras-like celebrations. (PIA-Caraga)