PIA News Service - Friday, Oct. 1, 2010

DENR widens reforestation of Mt. Mayapay

BUTUAN CITY — The Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) based in Nasipit Agusan del Norte headed by CENRO Jaime Acebu has took the initiative on Thursday to organize a three-day workshop of all stakeholders to strengthen the support of the people and widen the reforestation program of the government at Mount Mayapay in this city.

DENR-Caraga through the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Nasipit, Agusan del Norte headed by CENRO Jaime Acebu initiating the three-day workshop with participants from the different sectors of the community to draw up a blueprint for the rehabilitation and development of the 18,523-hectare Mt. Mayapay, held recently at the EcoPark in Barangay Bonbon, Butuan City. The DENR through the efforts of Agusan del Norte Representative Jose S. Aquino II, the people and other government agencies has planted trees mostly of “African Tulip” species on 158 hectares slopes of the mountain.  

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 “We thought it appropriate to come up with a development plan of Mt. Mayapay which will be crafted by all concerned sectors to sustain the momentum in reforestation efforts that started three years ago.” CENRO Acebu told local newsmen before the start of the workshop held at the enchanted “Ecological Forest Park” in Barangay Bonbon, in Butuan City.

The activity is participated in by the leaders of the Indigenous People, barangay chairpersons, officials of the Community-Based Forest Management program, businessmen, the National Economic Development Authority-Mt.Mayapay Rehabilitation Task Force, the Philippine Army 4th Infantry Division, 3rd Infantry Brigade based at Camp Bancasi, the DENR and the LGU officers of the Buenavista, Agusan del Norte and Butuan City. 

The workshop is expected to produce a development blueprint for Mt. Mayapay which would harness and improve the ecological settings in the area and hopefully attract local and foreign tourists in the area over the next five years. 

The DENR has already laid the groundwork in the reforestation program of Mt. Mayapay which was made possible through the support of Butuan City Representative Jose “Joeboy” Aquino, the NEDA and the City Government of Butuan. 

Since reforestation started on May 21, 2008 at a ceremony graced upon by then House Speaker Prospero Nograles, there are now about 158 hectares of slopes that have been planted at Mt. Mayapay mostly of the flower-bearing African Tulips, and other tree species of Philippine mahogany, and narra also known as the national tree. There are also undocumented accounts from some foraging residents near the mountain peak that they have seen deers in three occasions.

According to CENRO Acebu, a team from the CENRO Nasipit headed by Forester Greg V. Bayotas was sent to verify this report. He said these are “encouraging signs that biodiversity is coming back in the once-denuded slopes of Mt. Mayapay.”

“Part of the development plan is to sustain the tree planting program in the area by all sectors of the society including the students, LGUs, private, non-government and government sectors even if the leaders who first initiated the rehabilitation of Mt. Mayapay are gone.” CENRO Acebu said.

A prominent participant of the workshop, the former Butuan City Mayor Daisy Plaza said she is proud to be part of the people who first initiated the rehabilitation of Mt. Mayapay. 

The lady Mayor who was still reeling from an upset over her close political contender in the last national and local elections said she was “willing to participate actively in the program. “In any good endeavor for the benefit of reviving the lost glory of Mt. Mayapay, my utmost support is always be there” Mrs. Plaza said. She also hinted that plans are underway in which her family will introduce and manage a “cable-ride” system in the area where the people can enjoy and appreciate the nature from the top. (Eric F. Gallego, DENR-13 Public Affairs Office/PIA-Caraga)

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Mindanao local chief executives encouraged to join LG Code Anniversary Celebration

BUTUAN CITY - With the theme “Strengthening Local Autonomy Through Transparent Accountable Governance and Peacebuilding,” the Department of the Interior and Local Government encourages all local chief executives of Mindanao to attend a one-day activity in celebration of the Local Government Code of 1991 on October 8, 2010 at the Grand Caprice Hotel, Cagayan de Oro City.

The activity will highlight innovations and initiatives in various areas of local governance. It serves as a celebration of the 20 years of local autonomy in the Philippines pursuant to the provisions provided for by the Local Government Code of 1991 which enable the local government units to attain their fullest development as self-reliant communities. (Mary Christine Anthonette M. Salise, DILG-13/PIA-Caraga)
 

PIA News Service - Thursday, Sept. 30, 2010

Cebuano News: PhilHealth Sabado ilusad sa Caraga

Ni Michael Imbo

BUTUAN CITY - Gitakdang ilusad sa Philippine Health (Philhealth) Insurance Corporation Caraga ang Nationwide Philhealth Registration Day kon NPRD  karong Sabado (October 2) dinhi sa Caraga nga apilan sa nagkadaiyang mga katawhan lukop probinsya sa Agusan del Sur, Agusan del Norte, Surigao Del Sur, Surigao del Norte ug Dinagat Islands.

Nagpatawag sa panagtigom ang nagkadaiyang ahensya sa gobyerno nga gipangunahan sa Department of Health (DOH), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) ug Philhealth-Caraga alang sa programang pagparehistro alang sa seguridad nga gihatod sa Philhealth.

Gipanawagan ni DOH-Caraga Regional Director Leonita P. Gorgolon ang Caraganon’s sa pagparehistro karong Sabado aron masiguro ang milyon ka Pilipino nga makadawat sa benipisyo sa government’s health Insurance program.

Ang rehiyon nakighiusa sa panawagan nga masiguro ang financial protection nga magamit sa mga kabus nga Pilipino sa ilang pagpamiyembro sa Philhealth.

Si Philhealth President Dr. Rey B. Aquino ang nagpagawas sa mensahe nga matud pa “In particular, we would like to reach out to our fellowmen who are not yet members but who have the financial means to pay for their premium contributions”.

Atol sa panagtigom mipadayag sa ilang action committee plan ang mga nagkadaiyang Provincial Health Team Leaders sa probinsya sa Agusan del Sur, Agusan del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Surigao del Norte ug Dinagat Island.

Gipangandaman sa Technical Working Group (TWG) ang nagkalain-lain nga programa alang sa pagbisita usab ni DOH-Undersecretary Mario Villaverde.

Gikan sa mga katawhan lakip na ang mga pamilyang lumad (Indigents families) ang gilauman nga hatagan sa prayoridad sa pagpamieyembro aron maproteksyunan sa pagsaka sa pinansyal sama sa medikal ug pagpa-ospital.

Si Philhealth Caraga Regional Vice President John Y. Sychua ang mihatag sa nag-unang buhaton aron magiyahan ang mga gustong magpa-miyembro sa programa ug gilatag sab niini ang mga benipisyong ubos sa ahensya.

Ang mga ahensya sa panglawas ang naningkamot aron matubag ang panginahanglan sa katawhan lukop nasud lakip na dinhe sa rehiyon sa Caraga ilalom sa programa sa administrasyon ni Presidente Benigno Simeon Aquino III.

Nasayran nga miabot na sa 20 milyon ka members ang nagparehistro ubos sa individually paying members lukop nasud ubos sa programang “Philhealth Sabado, Magseguro, Magparehistro”. (PIA-Caraga)

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1,500 Potential Households of Butuan City to Benefit from 4Ps

BUTUAN CITY – Some 1, 500 potential households of Butuan City will become beneficiaries of the government’s Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps). On September 17, 2010 a simultaneous 4Ps registration was conducted in barangay Obrero and Doongan Butuan City.

The launching and registration was conducted simultaneously in their respective barangay gym. Butuan Mayor Ferdinand Amante, Jr. together with other barangay officials of the 2 barangays were also present and showed their support by providing manpower to speed up the registration process. Other 4Ps identified barangays of Butuan City are Anticala, Bonbon, and Manila de Bugabos. 

The potential beneficiaries were required to bring (2) 2x2 and (1) 1x1 I.D pictures, marriage contract or birth certificate.

Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) is one of the flagship programs of the government in poverty reduction. The program provides cash grants to its beneficiaries with a maximum of 1, 400.00 per month or 15, 000.00 annually. To avail the cash grants, beneficiaries should comply the following conditions: (1) Pregnant women must avail the pre and post natal check up and be attended by a skilled/ trained health professional; (2) Parents/guardians must attend responsible parenthood sessions, mother’s classes and parent effectiveness seminar; (3) children 0-5 years old must receive regular health checkups and vaccines; (4)children aged 3-5 years old must attend day acre/ pre-school classes at least 85% of the time; (5) children aged 6-14 years old must enroll in elementary or high school and attend classes at least 85% of the time. 

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4Ps beneficiaries were selected through the selection of poorest provinces based on the 2006 Family Income and Expenditure Survey (FIES); and the poorest municipalities were selected from the identified poorest provinces based on the Small Area Estimates (SEA) and FIES where saturation surveys of households were conducted. The last process in selection of the beneficiaries is the computerized selection based ranking system using the Proxy-Means Test developed for the program. The Proxy-Means Test assess the socio-economic characteristics such as ownership of assets/appliances; type of housing unit; level of educational attainment of household heads and access to water and sanitation facilities. 

The program also aims to empower women by identifying the mothers as the grantee, because mothers are usually the one who budgets for the family. 

4Ps in Caraga started in 2008 with 2 pre-pilot municipalities, Sibagat and Esperanza, Agusan del Sur. At present it covers 54 municipalities with more than 80,000 household beneficiaries. (Stella Maris V. Barcelon, DSWD-13/PIA-Caraga)
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4Ps Capability Building for 4Ps Parent Leaders conducted

BUTUAN CITY – The Department of Social Welfare and Development has started training the parent leaders of 4Ps municipalities. As partners in the implementation of the program, 4Ps Parent Leaders needs to be capacitated in order to gain the basic knowledge, skills and attitude to effectively and efficiently perform their roles and functions in the community. The program also sees it as a good approach to boost their dedication and commitment to the program. Furthermore, this activity can direct to leadership development and people empowerment.  

The sessions are focused on how to enhance leadership skills, effective communication and facilitation skills, and goal and decision making, and how to manage themselves for others. 

Nine (9) Batches or 1, 800 4Ps set 1 Parent leaders are scheduled to attend the workshop starting September 13 until October 22, 2010, with 3-day workshop for each batch. The training is held at Balanghai Hotel in Butuan City.

The activity also serves as a venue for the different 4Ps municipalities parent leaders to get acquainted with each other. 

4Ps is the approach of the government in achieving the Millennium Development Goals which is to reduce poverty and hunger, achieve universal primary education, reducing child mortality rate, improving maternal health care and promoting gender equality. The program provides cash grants to extremely poor households upon the compliance of the conditionalities set by the program.  

Caraga Region has a total of 52 4Ps municipalities and 2 cities. (Stella Maris V. Barcelon, DSWD-13/PIA-Caraga)


GSIS: Moratorium on housing, ConsoLoan ends this month

The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) is informing all members who availed of the moratorium on their Housing and Consolidated Loans that the one-year relief ends this month. 

The GSIS said the effectivity of the moratorium program is only until September 30 this year and that monthly payments will resume thereafter.

The GSIS said borrowers who availed of the moratorium should resume their monthly amortizations starting next month to avoid their accounts being declared in default. 

The GSIS Board of Trustees approved a resolution last year putting a one-year moratorium on Housing and Consolidated Loan payments in answer to the call of the then Arroyo administration to help those who were devastated by tropical storms “Ondoy” and “Pepeng.”

The one-year repayment deferral program covers only the amortizations within the month of October 2009 up to September 2010. 

Only Housing Loan and ConsoLoan borrowers, whose accounts were not in default as of Sept. 30, 2009 were allowed to apply for the program.

Borrowers with arrears were also allowed to avail of the moratorium. However, the moratorium period was only limited to the difference between 12 months and the number of months in arrears.

Meanwhile, apart from the moratorium on housing and ConsoLoan payments, the GSIS also released P4.47-billion in emergency loan to members affected by typhoons “Ondoy” and “Pepeng.”

Those who availed of the loan each received P20,000, payable in three years in equal monthly installment. The loan, the most generous of its kind in the country, bears an annual interest rate of eight percent.

A total of 224,879 members availed of last year’s emergency loan. (GSIS-13/PIA-Caraga)


POLICE REPORTS
By PO3 Criselda Bulahao-Nalam

Report on illegal gambling

On September 28, 2010 around 11:30 in the morning at Phase 2, Emenville Subdivision, Brgy Ambago, Butuan City, elements of BCPS3 of Butuan City Police Office led by SPO2 Sevillano apprehended one Michael Balbarino Abroa, 18 yrs old, single and a resident of Resurrection, Butuan City, who was caught in the act engaging in illegal number game. 

Confiscated from his possession and control were five (5) pcs tally sheets and Php 1, 050.00 bet money in different denomination. Subject person and confiscated items was brought to said station for proper disposition. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Report on wanted person 

On September 28, 2010 around 1:35 in the afternoon at Junction Road, Brgy Payasan, Lianga, Surigao del Sur, PNP elements of Lianga MPS led by PINSP VITALIANO B PAGARAN III, COP, arrested one Santor Malubay Panganoron, 52 yrs old, married and a resident of Sitio Taunaga, Brgy Magsaysay, Agusan del Sur by virtue of warrant of arrest issued by Hon Ricardo L Mosquera III, Executive Judge 6th MCTC of Barobo-Lianga, surigao del Sur, for the crime of Reckless Imprudence Resulting in Damage to Property docketed under cc# 10-CR-021-L and with recommended bail bond amounting to Php 12, 000.00. 

Subject person is now temporarily detained at Lianga MPS for proper disposition. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Report on strucking incident

On September 29, 2010 around 3:22 in the morning at corner A. Arami st. and Asis st., Cabadbaran City, one Alberto Nolasco y Madrona, 45 yrs old, single and a resident of P-2, Brgy 2, Cabadbaran City was found lying on the ground allegedly struck with a piece of wood by unidentified suspect. 

Initial investigation disclosed that while said victim was standing at the abovementioned place, suddenly suspect appeared and without apparent reason struck the victim with a piece of wood hitting his forehead which caused his instantaneous death. 

Cadaver of the victim was brought to Cabadbaran Emergency hospital for post mortem examination. Motive of the incident was yet determined. Case is now in the process of investigation for possible identity of the suspect. Progress report follows. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Wednesday, Sept. 29, 2010

SJIT’s 39th Foundation Anniversary
CIT wins Undak-undak Festival 2010

By: Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY (29 September) – The College of Information Technology (CIT) once again proved its worth and supremacy in performing artistic moves and unique presentations as the 49-male and 1 female student-performers grabbed the championship plum in this year’s Undak-undak Festival, a street dancing competition held in connection with Saint Joseph Institute of Technology’s (SJIT) 39th Foundation Anniversary, taking away P25,000.00 cash prize.

Students of the College of Information Technology (CIT) of Saint Joseph Institute of Technology (SJIT) are shown here performing their stints in street dancing portraying festivities of the “Lumad Mamanwa Tribe” during the 2010 Undak-undak Festival, highlighting the institute’s 39th Foundation Anniversary Celebration.

Clad in bahag costume depicting the Mamanwa Tribe of Surigao del Norte, the contingent show their breath-taking performance to the delight of around 3,000 spectators witnessing the activity highlighting the foundation anniversary of the only ISO-accredited education institution in Butuan City.

Prior to the final showdown, a street dancing was conducted in time with the opening parade, which made the audience from all walks of life stop for a while to take pictures of the eight contingents representing the seven colleges of the institute, including the Basic Education, as they vie for the Best in Street dancing special award, which was later on awarded to second placer – College of Education, Arts and Sciences (CEAS) who portrayed the Bulawan Festival of the Compostella Valley. They went home with Php 20,000 in cash.

Aside from winning the grand championship trophy, CIT was also awarded Best in Choreography, which is considered the biggest contributing factor for being chosen as this year’s Grand Champion by majority of the judges composed of choreographers and mentors of cultural dance groups in universities and high schools in Caraga Region.

Meanwhile, College of Criminology’s (COC) Dinagyang Festival which is originated from Iloilo City was declared 2nd runner-up. They received a cash prize of P15,000.00. The other contingents who did not make in the magic three also received consolation prize of P5,000.00 each.

It was learned that CIT’s choreographer from Surigao City has a lot of experience in as far as festival competitions is concerned. Among those is the region’s famous Bonok-bonok Festival which was held annually every September 10 in time with Surigao City’s fiesta celebration in honor of Patron Saint Senior San Nicolas de Tolentino. Another is the Lanzones Festival of Camiguin where contingent in Surigao City also dominated in this annual festival of the province considered as the “Paradise Island of Mindanao”.

In an informal talk with some of the participants, when asked what made them inspire in portraying astoundingly their role as Mamanwas, one of the participants said, “what we are doing is not only for the contingent’s sake but for the entire students of the College of Information Technology where we are representing,” he said.

Also, another participant said, they were challenged when CIT Dean – Prof. Amy C. Saavedra, together with the college’s faculty members “walked out” during their final rehearsal. “We were actually touched by the statements of our Dean reminding us of the reasons why we need to win in this contest,” a senior participant said.

Further, Prof. Saavedra confirmed the participant’s statement. “As the dean and mentors of these young participants, we really need to inculcate in their mind that with the efforts and sacrifices they have exerted, they must be paid off – by winning in the competition… What’s the purpose of sleeping late at night and exerting too much effort, and in the end, we will lose,” Saavedra said.

It can be recalled that CIT landed 2nd runner-up to Maritime Academy who was declared champion during last year’s competition while CEAS was declared 1st runner up.

The 39th Foundation Anniversary Celebration of SJIT is anchored on the theme: “SJIT at 39: Enhancing institutional culture for quality education”. (PIA-Caraga)

OWWA-Caraga to award region’s model OFW family

By: Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY (29 September) – The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is set to award the prestigious Model OFW Family of the Year on Tuesday, October 5, 2010 in one of the local convention centers here.

In a press statement, OWWA-Caraga OIC-Regional Director Dr. Marietta A. Lumawag said the annual award recognizes outstanding OFW families who have used the gains of working abroad in achieving success within their families, communities and the society at large.

All seventeen (17) regions of the country shall have 2 MOFYA winners each, one from the land-based category and the other from the sea-based. From these regional MOFYA winners, two (2) will emerged as national winners during the national awarding on December 2010. Two more special awards shall be conferred namely, Outstanding Achievement in Community Projects and in Entrepreneurship, respectively.

For last year’s MOFYA National Search, OFW Emilio Belo and family of Baleno, Masbate emerged as winner in the sea-based category.

MOFYA is an annual search undertaken by OWWA to give due recognition to the outstanding achievements of the OFWs and their families and promote best practices in managing family challenges.

Specifically, it aims to serve as role models for the whole OFW population, promote success stories about OFW families’ endurance over the challenges on their family relations and uplift the image of OFW families in the community, and highlight the role of OFW family acting as a group/unit in the attainment of socio-civic, educational, professional and material success. (PIA-Caraga)

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Synchornized Brgy. and SK Elections
Comelec deputized PIA

By: Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY (29 September) – The Commission on Elections has deputized the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) in connection with the October 25t, 2010 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan synchronized elections.

Comelec Resolution No. 9032 dated September 21, 2010 signed by Comelec Commissioners headed by Chairman Jose Melo emphasized that the commission may deputize agencies and instrumentalities of the government for the purpose of ensuring a free, orderly, honest, peaceful and credible conduct of the October 25, 2010 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections.

The resolution also pointed out Section 52 of the Omnibus Election Code which stated that Comelec shall carry a continuing and systematic campaign through radio and other media forms to educate the public and fully inform the electorate about election laws, procedures, decisions, and other matters relative to the work and duties of the commission and the necessity of clean, free, orderly and honest electoral process.

Moreover, the resolution stated that with the extensive information network nationwide, PIA would be in a peculiarity special position to assist the commission in its information campaign on the Barangay and SK elections.

Meanwhile, as deputized by Comelec, PIA shall, at all times, remain impartial and perform the following duties: 1) Assist the commission in its education and information campaign on the aforesaid Barangay and SK elections; 2) Make available to the commission some of its personnel as may be necessary to ensure implementation of programs of activities or operation plans for the commission’s information campaign; 3) Produce such information materials as the commission may deem necessary to ensure the conduct of free, orderly, honest, peaceful and credible elections; and 4) Perform such other duties and functions as the commission may, from time to time determine.

However, the resolution gave emphasis that PIA shall adhere strictly to the policy of the commission that the education and information campaign must be absolutely impartial, objective and neutral.

It was also stressed that the expenses may incur, as such deputy for the information campaign if the commission such as production of information materials, shall be for the exclusive account of the agency.

Moreover, the resolution underlined that any information materials which the agency, as such deputy, shall produce upon the direction of the commission, shall be published/distributed/released only upon prior clearance from the commission to ensure that nothing therein contained shall depart from or violate the policy of impartiality, objectivity and neutrality. (PIA-Caraga)

Butuan hosts 1st Caraga Reg’l Fruit Forum

More than two hundred participants coming from the provinces all over Caraga region attended the one-day1st Caraga Regional Fruit Forum held in this city yesterday.

With this year’s theme: “Enhancing The Crop, Sustaining the Growth and Establishing The Hub” the activity was attended by top officials from the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office XIII led by RED Reinerio B. Belarmino, Jr., officials from the GEM USAID, city government represented by City Councilor Hon. Angelo Calo, chair of the City Council’s Committee on Agriculture (who represented Butuan City Mayor Ferdinand M. Amante) as well as the representatives of the association of fruit planters, buyers, those who were involved in the production of food and fruit products and other stakeholders.

The first plenary session revolved on the topic “Caraga’s Advantages, Opportunities and Challenges” under which, Ms. Lynn Parenas, Chief, Crops Division of DA Regional Office presented the “Caraga Fruit Industry Profile And Program Support.” It was followed by another presentation of “Opportunities and Challenges of Caraga’s Fruit Industry” by Ms. Ellen Lantican, from the GEM USAID. Another presentation of the GEM USAID on the topic “Mindanao Fruit Value Chain” was made by Mr. Arnold A. Dacula.

The second plenary session discussed the “Industry Updates and Marketing Opportunities for Caraga” with eight presenters from the various fruit-based industries and products here in the region. The under topics “Expansion Program On Banana” was presented by Mr. Manuel B. Uy, Manager, AMS Group of Companies, Cabadbaran, Agusan del Norte and Mr. Romeo Sacro, Manager of the Celebes Agricultural Corporation, Km. 3, Baan, Butuan City.

The presentations were continued during the afternoon sessions, where the sub-topics “Off Season Mango Production Guide” was presented by Mr. Benjamin D. Dalaguan ACC III, DA RFO XIII; “Marketing Opportunities for Mango and Other Fruits” by Mr. Rey Paraiso, Manila Fruit Buyer, “Production And Marketing Opportunities for Lanzones and Mangosteen” by Dr. Ismael Ellevaso, a Professor from Bayugan City; “Production and Marketing Opportunities on Papaya and Pineapple” by Mr. Francis Rivera, Manager, Papaya Operations , Del Monte, Philippines; Mr. Angelito Delanto, General Manager of Nice Choice, an emerging locally-produced, Papaya-based food product, which is now finding its way not only in the city malls, superstores and food stalls but also in the other parts of the region and even in the country as well. Another presentation by Mr. Jay Pangtangco of the Fruitgems Agri Development Corporation of Tubay, Agusan del Norte on similar topic was made towards the end of the afternoon session, followed by open discussions by the participants on the various topics presented.

A market matching activity was made towards the end of the forum followed by a synthesis and the closing program. (Noel B. Najarro, The Butuan Star/PIA-Caraga)
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POLICE REPORTS
By PO3 Arturo Suganob Campania

Report on shooting incident 

One Jembu Guy-an y Tiambong, 16 yrs old, single and res of P-5, Brgy San Isidro, Santiago, Agusan del Norte was shot by unidentified suspect with the use of unknown caliber of firearm. 

Victim was immediately rushed by the populace to Cabadbaran District Hospital for medical treatment while suspect fled after the incident. Upon receipt of the report, PNP elements of Santiago MPS proceeded to the crime scene and conducted investigation and hot pursuit operation against the fleeing suspect. 

Initial investigation disclosed that the victim while inside the "Rod Mill Gold Processing Establishment" owned by Samuel Haum on September 27, 2010 at 9:30 pm, one unidentified suspect suddenly appeared and without apparent reason shot the victim once hitting the left portion of his body. Progress report to follows. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Report on electrocution 

One Fernando Ayala y Penaloga, 46 yrs old, married, farmer and res of P-5, Brgy Poblacion, Bunawan, Agusan del Sur was found dead at Salas Lake, Campo 6, Brgy Nueva Era, Bunawan, Agusan del Sur on September 28, 2010 at 7:00 pm. 

Initial investigation disclosed that the victim left their residence in the morning on September 27, 2010 and proceeded to Salas Lake purposely to catch fish using battery operated electro gadget with two still rod and failed to return home until he was found dead.  

During the Post mortem examination conducted by DRA Generose M Carmona, Bunawan Rural Health Officer, the cause of death was electric shock believed to be electrocuted by his fishing device. Progress report to follows. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Campaign against illegal drugs 

Personnel from PDEA-13 led by Joel B Plaza, Deputy Regional Director coordinated to Buenavista MPS on September 27, 2010 purposely to conduct buybust operation at public Market, Brgy 3, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte. 

At around 5:30 pm of same date, the team arrested one Aneza Dumagay y Nasarodin, legal age, res of said municipality.  

Confiscated from the possession of the suspect were one (1) transparent heat sealed plastic sachet containing white crystalline substance believed to be shabu; Php 500.00 peso bill marked money; cash amounting to Php 458.00 and one (1) unit Nokia cell phone 1208 model.  

The operation was conducted in coordination with Brgy Kagawad of said place and DOJ representative. Suspect now under the custody of the PDEA 13 for proper disposition. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Report on barricade 

More or less 40 persons from SR Metal Inc Workers Union led by Francisco Sanchez conducted barricade at the Provincial Road, Poblacion 2, Tubay, Agusan del Norte on September 28, 2010 at 7:00 am. 

The purpose of their barricade was to prevent representative from Dept of Labor and Employment (DOLE) going to SR Metal Inc, located at Brgy La Fraternidad, Tubay, Agusan del Norte in relation to the scheduled "Certificat of election" of the Union. Upon receipt of the report, PNP elements of Tubay MPS led by PINSP SARONJILO Jr immediately proceeded to the area and conducted dialogue to the said group. 

According to Francisco Sanchez, leader of SR Metal Inc workers Union, they were objecting the scheduled election due to the irregularity of the procedures and they have filed a motion resetting and transferring the venue of said election. 

Upon arrival of the DOLE representative Mrs May C Velonta, a conference was held wherein both parties agreed to reset the "Certificate of election" pending resolution of motion filed by the members of workers union and another pre-election conference was set to discuss some other issues prior to the final election. 

The group voluntarily dispersed on 9:22 am of same date due to the effort exerted by PNP elements of Tubay MPS with no untoward incident. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Butuan cops arrests wanted person

One Joselito Calibo y Elejorde, 44 yrs old, married and res of Mayuga Libagon, Southern Leyte was arrested by PNP elements of Butuan City Police Station 2 led by PO3 Alquin Adalid by virtue of WOA issued by Hon Judge Evangeline S Yuipco-Bayan of RTC Branch 32, Surigao City for the crime of qualified theft docketed under CC nr 8910 with no bailbond recommended. Apprehension took place at DBM Office, Brgy Limaha, Butuan City on September 27, 2010 at 4:00 pm. Subject person now detained at BCPS 2 detention cell for proper disposition. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Progress report on violation of comelec gunban 

A Case for violation of COMELEC gunban was already filed at Prosecutors Office in an inquest proceeding against the suspects one Junarde Dungog y Chavez, 42 years old, married and a resident of Cebu City and one Jose Aro y Quijano, 28 years old, single and a resident of Pasil, Cebu City under docket nr XIII-06-INQ-101-230. 

Said suspects were arrested when PNP elements of Claver MPS led by SPO3 Marcelo Palulay responded to a call from concerned citizens regarding altercation with the suspects and some persons while having a drinking spree at the videoke house owned by Jun-Jun Maglasang at around 1:20 in the morning of September 27, 2010 at Brgy. Tayaga, Claver, Surigao del Norte.  

Suspects introduced themselves as members of the Provincial Environment Management Office (PEMO) but upon verification, they failed to present identification card or any document to prove that they are really members of PEMO. 

When they were inspected, Police Officers recovered two (2) 357 revolver without serial number and loaded with five (5) ammunitions each, from the possession of the said suspects with no pertinent documents. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Tuesday, Sept. 28, 2010

Caraga police ready for the coming Barangay and SK election

BUTUAN CITY - The policemen in the region is now ready for the upcoming synchronized Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections on October 25, 2010. New Caraga Police Director PCSUPT REYNALDO SERRANO RAFAL, CEO VI said the 45-day security operation has been implemented since September 25 until November 11, 2010.  

Policemen assume election duties as deputies of the Commission on Elections and will take this challenge as another opportunity for the PNP to shine and possibly duplicate the fine performance of election duties in the May 2010 national and local polls.  

The Command will surely oversee and supervise all election security operations by lower units. PSSUPT SAMUEL MAHUSAY YORDAN, Deputy Regional Director for Operations together with PSSUPT MANSUE NERY LUKBAN, Regional Chief Directorial Staff led in inspecting the COMELEC Checkpoint conducted by the police in respective municipalities. 

 Joint Security Coordinating Centers (JSCC) will be put up by the PNP and AFP at the regional, provincial and municipal levels to ensure police-military inter-operability and coordination in operations against Partisan Armed Groups and other election law violators. GENERAL RAFAL instructed all units to closely monitor the prevailing situation in perennial election hotspots and to initiate immediate action to prevent any outbreak of election-related violence. Comelec Resolution 9019 orders the PNP and AFP to enforce a nationwide gunban from September 25 to Nov 11, 2010.

During the May2010 elections, PRO 13 complied all directives from higher headquarters: Established Joint Security Control Centers and Election Monitoring Action Centers; Prepared and submitted security plans; Conducted scenario exercises, inspections and monitoring; Established checkpoints/chokepoints and Conducted public information campaign for an CREDIBLE, HONEST, ACCURATE, MEANINGFUL, AND PEACEFUL (CHAMP). 

Based on the survey conducted in coordination with PNP Program Management Office (PMO) having 4,400 respondent households conducted on May 29-June 13, 2010 by the Asia-Pacific Center for Research (ACRE), PRO13 ranked No.1 in the total gun ban efficiency and effectiveness nationwide with 76.22% Diffusion Index. PRO13 apprehended 80 total gun ban violators (4 PNP, 2 AFP, 1 BJMP and 1 NBI). The aforementioned ACRE Survey also shows PRO13 ranked No.3 on Checkpoints Efficiency and Effectiveness nationwide with 70.63 Diffusion Index. (PCI Nelly Tabornal Villagarcia, PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)
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POLICE REPORTS
By PO2 Darlin Cabalinan-Migullas

Report on robbery incident

A Rod Mill establishment owned by Pepito Beto was robbed by unidentified armed men wearing bonnets at around 8:00 O'clock in the evening of September 26, 2010, located at P-6, Brgy. San Isidro, Santiago, Agusan del Norte. 

Initial investigation disclosed that while the miners led by Pepito Beto were processing the gold ores, said suspects suddenly appeared, fired their guns and forcibly entered the said establishment then took one pail of gold ore with an estimated weight of 80 grams and immediately fled to unknown direction. 

Upon withdrawal, suspects fired several shots where stray bullet hits the right leg of one Jojo Biyog Beto, 24 years old, single, miner and a resident of Brgy. Curva, Cabadbaran, Agusan del Norte. Said victim was brought to Cabadbaran Emergency Hospital for medical attention and subsequently referred to Agusan del Norte Provincial Hospital, Butuan City for medical treatment. Cabadbaran MPS took cognizance of the case. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Violation of Comelec gun ban

Elements of Claver MPS led by SPO3 Marcelo Palulay apprehended one Junarde Dungog y Chavez, 42 years old, married and a resident of Cebu City and one Jose Aro y Quijano, 28 years old, single and a resident of Pasil, Cebu City at around 1:20 in the morning of September 27, 2010 at Brgy. Tayaga, Claver, Surigao del Norte for violation of Comelec gun ban. 

Initial investigation disclosed that said suspects were having altercation with some persons while having a drinking spree at the videoke house owned by Jun-Jun Maglasang of the said place. 

A concerned citizen called for Police assistance and upon arrival of the responding team from Claver MPS, said suspects introduced themselves as members of the Provincial Environment Management Office (PEMO) but upon verification, they failed to present identification card or any document to prove that they are really members of PEMO. 

When they were inspected, Police Officers recovered two (2) 357 revolver without serial number and loaded with five (5) ammunitions each, from the possession of the said suspects with no pertinent documents. Apprehended suspects and confiscated firearms with ammos were brought to Claver MPS for proper disposition. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Report on illegal gambling  

A certain Michael Clave y Entor, 41 years old, married and a resident of P- Earth, Brgy. Telaje, Tandag, Surigao del Sur was apprehended by elements of Tandag Municipal Police Station led by SPO2 Loreto Suarez at around 7:00 O'clock in the evening of September 26, 2010 at Moonglow, Brgy. Bag-ong Lungsod of the said municipality. 

Said suspect was apprehended for having caught in the act, engaging in illegal gambling activity locally known as "last two digits" and "swertres". Confiscated from the possession of the suspect were illegal gambling paraphernalia and P700.00 as bet money. Said suspect and confiscated items were brought to Tandag MPS for proper disposition. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)  


4TH CMO battalion promotes environmental awareness through tree planting

“We plant trees not for ourselves but for future generations.”- Caecilius. 

 As stewards of the earth, the 4th CMO Battalion recognizes its responsibility as the caretaker of our environment by planting 300 different seedlings in Macaluisa Watershed, Brgy Patag, Opol, Misamis Oriental last 25 September 2010 together with the personnel of the other units of the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division such as the 5th Light Armor Battalion (5LAB), 10th Field Artillery Battalion (10FAB) and 10th Regional Community Defense Group (10RCDG) in partnership with the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office-Opol (MENRO-Opol) as the opening activity for its week-long 1st Founding Anniversary Celebration. During the said activity, participants did not only plant new seedlings but they also placed organic fertilizers to previously planted seedlings in the area to ensure and increase the growth and survivability of these plants in the watershed.

This Tree Planting Activity was initiated to promote environmental awareness among the populace. This is one way of showing the people how committed the 4th CMO Battalion and the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division is in caring and in preserving our environment for the future of the next generation.  

According to the Mid-Columbia Forestry Council, trees have lots of value for the environment and for humankind. Accordingly, trees are not only pretty to look at but they also increase economic stability, enhance tourism, provide habitat, save energy, reduce storm water run-off, prevent erosion and they also promote a positive effect on people by making us feel happy and at one with nature by reducing stress and restoring our spirits. 

The said Tree Planting activity is very timely because we are also commemorating the destruction brought about by the Typhoon “ONDOY” in late September of last year. We all saw how unrelenting and merciless the forces of nature could be, as we were all caught off-guard by this catastrophe. We all reaped what we did to our environment. Our continuous neglect paved the way for the degradation of our environment. A lot of lives and properties were lost during those times and we would not like to let this calamity happen once again, that is why the 4th CMO Battalion spearheaded this kind of activity to prevent and preempt this kind of devastation to occur once more.

The 4th CMO Battalion would like to instill in the minds of the people that we all have our roles to play, responsibilities to attend and tasks to perform in caring and preserving of our environment. Let us not be complacent in our endeavor,instead, we must all seize the initiative and step up a little further to continue what we have now started. The preservation of the environment does not stop in tree planting alone, a lot of things are still to be done and accomplished but we all could put our trust and confidence in our ARMY and our soldiers that they will always be there to promote and support our efforts in preserving our environment. (4th CMO Bn, 4ID, PA/PIA-Caraga)


4TH CMO battalion spearheads coastal cleanup 

Cagayan de Oro City – 4th Civil-Military Operations Battalion, 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, organized a coastal cleanup at Barangay Bonbon, Cagayan de Oro City last September 26, 2010. 

The activity is part of the week-long commemoration of 4th CMO Bn’s 1st founding anniversary celebration on October 01, 2010 with the theme: Makigtambayayong alang sa Kalinaw ug Kalambuan.

“This is to highlight how our soldiers are working hand-in-hand with the government, non-government/ public organization, other stakeholders and with the Filipino people to achieve lasting peace and sustainable development in our country” said Lt. Col. Triumph Dominic G Bagaipo, spokesperson of 4th ID, Philippine Army.

At least 120 participants joined the activity coming from the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) of Cagayan de Oro College (COC), Force of Responsible Citizens and Enforcers (FORCE), 10th Reserve Community Defense Group (RCDG), 5th Light Armor Bn, 10th Field Artillery Bn and residents of Barangay Bonbon.

The activity started at 06:30am and ended at 08:30 with a total number of 40 sacks of garbage collected in the cleanup site at Brgy Bonbon.

“As instruments of hope, the students must be aware of our environment and shall also contribute something good for the environment” said Cdt 1st Class Edgar C Denaga, ROTC Cadet Officer of Cagayan de Oro College.

Lt. Col. Bagaipo also emphasized the vital roles and responsibilities of each Filipino not only in protecting our country from insurgency but also in protecting our environment from pollutions that cause instability, disorder and harm to the ecosystem. (4th CMO Bn, 4ID, PA/PIA-Caraga)
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DILG & DTI introduce reforms on business permit applications

The Regional Offices of Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Region XIII jointly conducted a two-day workshop to streamline the current business permits and licensing processes in the local government units.

The Business Permits and Licensing System (BPLS) is aimed at unifying numerous forms, confusing steps, long waiting time and assorted signatories to “provide efficient delivery of services to the public by reducing bureaucratic red tape and preventing graft and corruptions” according to the DILG-DTI Joint Memorandum Circular No. 1 Series of 2010. 

Held in Mainit Kasili Lakeside Resort on September 23 – 24, 2010, participants from 10 LGUs namely Butuan City, Surigao City, Bislig City, Cabadbaran, Agusan del Norte; Bayugan and San Francisco of Agusan del Sur; Mainit, Tubod, Claver of Surigao del Norte; and Tandag, Surigao del Sur, as recipients of the project Strengthening Local Governments in the Philippines (SLGP) took their time analyzing existing processes in doing business at the local level and came up with the reduced number of steps encompassing with the standards set by the Anti-Red Tape Act or Republic Act 9458 which sets benchmarks for processing simple and complex government transactions.

 “A very revolutionary piece of reforms in local taxation that will help improve the lifeblood of local economy to spur development”. Ms. Lilibeth Famacion quoted as saying during the opening of the activity. This is a strategy to enjoin LGUs exercise their local taxation powers and be less reliant on the Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA).

The streamlined Business Permits and Licensing System is to be used during the conduct of the Business One Stop Shop (BOSS) come January 2-20, 2011 in time for the renewal of business permits. (Lolita H. Savaria, DILG - LGRC 13/PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Monday, Sept. 27, 2010

Water shortage feared in Surigao, local water district urges Surigaonons to conserve water

By: Fryan E. Abkilan

SURIGAO CITY - Surigaonons may experience severe water problems due to the aggravating impacts of dry season. This was the warning issued by Surigao Metropolitan Water District (SMWD) Gen. Manager Benjamin Ensomo, Jr. recently.

In a press statement, Ensomo urged the water concessionaires in the city to conserve water amid the alarming level of the Parang-parang Watershed. 

"Our water supply has already reached a critical level. Consumers can experience a very low water supply to no water at all. We have already tapped other creeks like the Mabini creek, Kanmahat creek and Parang-parang gamay as our alternative sources of water but still not enough for our growing consumers,” said Ensomo. 

Among those severely affected include Luna to Trinidad, Acean Heights Subdivision, Mabua-Ipil-Lipata-Punta Bilar, Sabang 3, Togbongon to Mat-I, Cagniog, Capitol Area, Surigao High, Espina Village and Silay Hills.

According to Ensomo, water supply can no longer penetrate to these areas because of low water pressure. Ensomo, however said that they have started rationing water to these areas to cope with the persistently low water level during nighttime.

The 967 hectare Parang-parang Watershed, plus the three creeks and a reservoir in Ceniza Subdivision supply potable water to roughly 16,000 consumers in the city. Right now, they are considering the Surigao River as another alternative source of water.

Ensomo also cited the alarming water level of Parang-parang Watershed is partly attributed to illegal logging and small scale mining. 

He then urged all affected sectors to cooperate “and help us in water conservation efforts.” (PIA-Surigao del Norte)


New PRO-13 RD installed

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BUTUAN CITY – Police Chief Superintendent Reynaldo Rafal, assumed his post as Police Regional Office 13 Regional Director replacing Police Chief Supt. Lino Calingasan.

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It was learned that the effective September 20, 2010 PRO 13 RD Calingasan relinquished his position to his successor PCSUPT. Rafal.

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Witnessing the turn-over of command ceremony and retirement honors held at the parade grounds of Camp Rafael Rodriguez in Libertad this city, in the morning of September 23, 2010 was Police Deputy Director General Perfecto Palad, Deputy Chief PNP for Administration.

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Outgoing Regional Director PCSUPT Calingasan was awarded with the Medalya ng Katapatan sa Panglilingkod (Service Medal) for commendable and invaluable service rendered from August 6, 2009 to Sept 23, 2010 before Director Jaime Milla, Directorate for Personnel and Records Management read the relief order of PCS Calingasan and designation order of PCS Rafal as approved by Chief PNP Raul Bacalzo.

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PCSUPT Rafal said that prior to his new assignment in Caraga Region, during his junior years as member of the 61st Philippine Constabulary Battalion he was already in several areas in Mindanao covering North Cotabato, Lanao and Davao areas.

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In the PNP organization, he was assigned as Regional Deputy Director for Administration in General Santos City in Region 12, later became as Deputy Chief of the Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management and his last assignment was as a Director of the Logistics Support Service in Camp Crame.

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PCSUPT Rafal, new PNP Chief Bacalzo and PDDG Palad are all members of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class ’77.

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Upon assuming his post, PCSUPT Rafal’s first to implement is the directive coming from the new PNP Chief Raul Bacalzo, ordering Caraga police to go back to basics, revive the virtue of courtesy, and improve the system of rewards and punishments.

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“Rest assured that as my stint as Regional Director here in Caraga shall be one with responsibility, sincerity and relevance. There will be more pro-active approach to crime prevention, people oriented policing, and enhance law enforcement strategies with utmost professionalism at the same time upholding the virtues of discipline, good manners and right conduct,” said PCSUPT Rafal in his speech.

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Meanwhile, PCSupt Calingasan laid down the legacy left to PRO 13 that includes the survey results conducted by the Asia Pacific Center for Research, Inc that from its 12th rank in 2009 with an index of 66.03%, Caraga rose to become number eight (8) among all police regional offices in 2010 with an index of 69.50%.

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“PRO 13 ranked 5th among all police regional offices with best improvement percentage in the performance of duties, we ranked #3 in terms of election efficiency and effectiveness, and in the implementation of total gun ban Caraga ranked #1 aside from being ranked #3 in the implementation of check points,” said PCS Calingasan.

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His 13 months of being a Regional Director, Caraga was among the regions in the country that obtained the lowest crime volumes.

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He also boasted of the successful peaceful resolution of two hostage taking incidents in Agusan del Sur during his term involving the DENR personnel held by the group of Andot Behing and the residents of Sitio Maitum in Prosperidad held by the group of Ondo Perez.

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The latest commendable achievement was announced after the ceremony by PO3 Leo Elicano that PRO 13 has been adjudged as the “Best Regional Office” during the conduct of 2010 Annual general Inspection-Operational Readiness, Security Inspection Test and Evaluation (AGI-ORSITE), an annual activity being spearheaded by the Internal Affairs Service from Camp Crame. (Jocelyn E. Morano, dxBN-Radyo ng Bayan Butuan)
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Rafal assumes as 9th Reg’l PNP Director

BUTUAN CITY - Police Chief Superintendent Reynaldo Serrano Rafal assumed as the ninth Caraga Philippine National Police Director in a very well-attended turn-over ceremony held at the parade grounds of the regional headquarters at Camp Rafael C. Rodriguez, Brgy. Libertad, this city.
 
CSupt. Rafal replaced CSupt. Lino DG Caligansan, who retired from his armed and police services at 56, today after serving the police force for 37 years, 5 months and 22 days. Calingasan assumed as the 8th Caraga PNP regional director on August 6, 2009 and served the said post for a year, l month and 16 days. He was awarded the “Medalya Ng Katapatan Sa Paglilingkod” (PNP Distinguished Service Medal), pinned by Police Director Jaime E. Milla, the Director of Personnel and Records Management (DPRM) of Camp Crame. Cited among his outstanding accomplishments was the maintenance of the region’s peace and order, containing the insurgency and criminality, intensifying crime prevention measures, strengthening the community policing system (COPS), establishing the three-tiered defense against terrorism, procuring additional firearms, communication and mobility equipments, undertaking the renovation and beautification of the regional camp and lower police offices and enhancing police officer and personnel’s welfare.
 
Presiding the turn-over was the nation’s second top PNP official Police Deputy Director General Perfecto Ponce Palad who represented the newly assumed PNP chief Police Director General Raul M. Bacalso, who was earlier invited but has to beg off due to his busy schedules at the national headquarters. Seen also attending the ceremony were Butuan Diocese Bishop Juan De Dios M. Pueblos, Surigao del Sur Gov. Johnny Pimentel, Agusan del Sur Vice-Gov. Santi Cane, Agusan del Norte Vice-Gov. Enrico Corvera, Butuan City Mayor Ferdinand M. Amante, Surigao City Mayor Ernesto Matugas and Butuan City Vice-Mayor Lawrence Fortun.
 
Top military officials operating in the region were also present led by EastMinCom Commander Lt. Gen. Raymundo Ferrer and 4ID Commanding General Felix, 402nd Brigde Commander Brig. Gen. Emillano Gupana II and 401st Brigade Commander Col. Augustus Tolentino. Other top police officials and former officials were also spotted during the affair. Also notably present were the top regional officials of the government line agencies along with the sectoral and religious leaders during the activity.
 
During his message for the occasion, the new police regional director promised an administration with responsibility, sincerity and relevance. He assured his constituents that he will implement a pro-active approach to crime prevention, a seasoned people oriented-policing, enhanced law enforcement, strategies with utmost professionalism, and at the same time he said, upholding the virtues of discipline, good manners and right conduct. He calls upon the personnel and officers of the regional police to share as part of their services and to rally behind him in achieving the mission and vision of the PNP. He also calls upon the community and their counterpart to the AFP, the government agencies, the media, the religious and the private sector to help rally behind the clarion call for change and transformation.

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He likewise thanked the legacy left by his predecessor, one with contained criminality, preserved peace and order, public safety and effective service to the people of this region.

He also expressed his gratitude to President Aquino, DILG Sec. Robredo and CPNP Raul Bacalso for the confidence and trust placed upon him to lead the police force in this region.

He emphasized that he expected a positive response from his police provincial and city directors, municipal chiefs of police and personnel to come up with action effectively addressing the crimes and the peace and order problems in their respective areas of responsibility, especially now that Caraga region is known to be the “Tourism Hub of the Island of Mindanao.”(Noel B. Najarro, The Butuan Star/PIA-Caraga)
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Sibagat residents desire for safe and potable water

SIBAGAT, AGUSAN DEL SUR - The residents of barangays San Vicente, Ilihan and Tag-oyango stressed their need for safe and potable water during the Mentoring Mechanism of the MDGF 1919 Water and Sanitation project.

“Mas maayo pang wala’y pagkaon basta naa lang me tubig” said Ms. Aloha Tabi, a Manobo tribe resident of Tag-oyango. According to Ms. Tabi, water is preferred over food because it is the most essential element in sustaining life.  

Majority of the barangays in Sibagat get their sources of water in tapstands which are usually placed kilometers away from their houses so they have to walk a mile before they can have their share of water. Usually it takes about two hours of walking before the residents can reach their water sources.  

The MDGF 1919 Mentoring Mechanism was conducted to gather information on the water sources and water-service providers (WSPs) of the recipient-waterless municipalities. It was also aimed to assess the capacity building needs of WSPs which will enable them to improve their services to the community. The data gathered during the mentoring mechanism are essential for the conduct of capacity assessment component of the project.  

It was found out during the mentoring mechanism that the Sibagat Water District lack the necessary trainings and capacity building interventions for its smooth operation. The “Godfather” technique was proposed during the mentoring mechanism. This technique sprouts from the “Big Brother” concept wherein well-established water districts or water service providers will conduct trainings to capacitate newly-established water districts.  

Sibagat is considered a waterless municipality because more than 50% of its population have no access to clean, safe and potable water. The said municipality is fortunate enough to be a recipient of the MDGF 1919 project.

MDGF 1919: Enhancing Access to and Provision of Water Services with the Active Participation of the Poor is a joint programme of the United Nations, the Government of the Philippines and the Government of Spain designed to provide capacity building components to projects under the Presidents Priority Program on Water (P3W) to recipient-waterless municipalities. (Mary Christine Anthonette M. Salise, DILG-13/PIA-Caraga)


POLICE REPORTS
By: PO3 Arturo Suganob Campania

Report on found dead fetus

One Jeffrey Encabo y Caballero, 41 yrs old, married, res of P-Almaciga, Brgy Pangabugan, Butuan City and owner of a sawmill informed Butuan City Police Office about a dead fetus floating at the river near his sawmill at Purok Molave of said Brgy. Immediately, WCPD investigator SPO3 Irish Fe Benegian together with reaction team led by SPO4 Jaime Valdehueza and SOCO team led by PINSP JOEL SIGNAR, Forensic Chemical Officer proceeded to the area and conducted investigation.  

Initial investigation revealed that on September 24, 2010 around 6:0 pm, one Eldy Lumabas y Astillo, 30 yrs old, single, res of P-Molave of said Brgy and laborer of said sawmill while checking his fish cage, saw a floating plastic container with a dead fetus inside. Said dead fetus then brought to St Peter Funeral Homes, Ochoa Avenue, Butuan City. Progress report to follows. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Report on illegal logging 

One motorboat loaded with assorted lumber allegedly owned by Tano Matutis, res of Purok 14, Libjo, Dinagat Islands was intercepted at the sea water, Brgy Poblacion Libjo, Dinagat Islands Province on September 24, 2010 at 9:30 pm by PNP personnel of Libjo MPS led by SPO2 Adolfo Go. 

Said motorboat was operated by a certain Marjun Matutis, 20 yrs old, single together with Romy Silikot y Castillon alias Loloy and Chelo Canoy Canonigo alais Eloy, legal age, all single and all res of P-14, Brgy Melody, Libjo, Dinagat Islands Province. Suspects and confiscated lumbers with an estimated volume of 500 board feet were brought to Loreto MPS for proper disposition. Progress report to follows. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Buenavista cops arrests wanted person

One Juan Sarol Bayron, 45 yrs old, married and res of Calo Rice Mill, Km 11 , Bgry Alubihid, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte was apprehended by PNP elements of Buenavista MPS by virtue of WOA issued by Hon Judge Francisco Maclang of RTC Branch 3, Libertad, Butuan City dated June 15, 2010 docketed under CC nr 14157 for theft with recommended bailbond amounting to Php 22,000.00. 

Apprehension took place at Brgy Malapong, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte on September 25, 2010 at 9:45 am. Subject person now under the custody of Buenavista MPS for proper disposition. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)


PNP vows strict enforcement of nationwide election gunban

BUTUAN CITY - All Permits to Carry Firearms Outside Residence (PTCFOR) issued by the Philippine National Police will be suspended from September 25, 2010 to November 11, 2010 when the COMELEC-imposed nationwide gunban takes effect as part of security measures for the October 25, 2010 synchronized Brgy and SK Elections. The PNP Chief, Director General RAUL M BACALZO said all gun carrying privileges by virtue of PTCFORs are suspended for the entire duration of the election period. 

The result of a joint conference of COMELEC, PNP and AFP in Caraga Region held at Camp Rafael C Rodriguez, Libertad, Butuan City on September 25, 2010 said that all authority granting police security detail to government officials, VIPs and other private individuals under threat are also revoked. The new Police Regional Office 13 Regional Director, Police Chief Superintendent REYNALDO SERRANO RAFAL said that "Only PNP, AFP, NBI personnel and Protective Agents of PDA (Private Detective Agencies) shall be deputized as security detail during the election period provided that these personnel shall be in proper uniform and in the actual performance of official security duties. However, all security detail are subject to approval of the COMELEC Committee for the Ban on Firearms and Security Personnel (CBFSP)

During the opening salvo in the conduct of Checkpoint, a team from the PRO 13 headed by the Regional Chief Directorial Staff, PSSUPT MANSUE NERY LUKBAN in the implementation of gunban, which started last September 25, 2010, only one violator was arrested. It seems that all individuals in the region are aware of the COMELEC gunban. However, Regional Director Rafal said, that all police units will continuously implement COMELEC gunban at all times to ensure Brgy and SK election attain the credible, honest, accurate, meaningful and peaceful (CHAMP) election. (PCI Nelly Tabornal Villagarcia, PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Sunday, Sept. 26, 2010

SSS Butuan launches supplementary feeding program

By Robert E. Roperos 

Butuan City - The Social Security System (SSS), Butuan Branch through its branch manager Raine Jamero, officially launched this morning, September 21, the SSS Supplementary Feeding Program at Mahay Elementary School, Brgy. Mahay, this city with the presence of Commissioner Jose Sonny Matula, Mayor Ferdinand Amante, Jr., and representatives of the Department of Education (DepEd). 

Prior to the launching, said officials and representatives signed a memorandum of understanding for the conduct of the feeding program. 

In an earlier statement, Jamero said the feeding program will be conducted three times a week for two months to 129 children-beneficiaries from the said school. 

The SSS Supplementary Feeding Program is part of SSS' corporate social responsibility thrust. Since 2008, SSS has allotted funds to be utilized for the supplementary feeding of undernourished school children. 

For 2010, by virtue of SSC Resolution No. 358-s. 2010, SSS has allotted P4.5 million for the said program. To date, 68 public schools and institutions and 5,444 school children have already benefited from the program. (PIA-Caraga)


Butuan gov’t conducts forum on RA 9994 to senior citizens

By: Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY – The city government here with the Office of Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) conducted recently a forum on Republic Act 9994 or the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010, held at People’s Hall, City Hall.

Right before the forum proper, OSCA held a free blood sugar test to first 50 participants from the senior citizens. 

OSCA Barangay Health Aide Ms. Marie Joy Pontillo, bared its programs and services for the senior citizens. She said that OSCA is conducting the following: 1) Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Treatments from Monday to Friday, 8:00-11:00 a.m. and 1:00-4:00 p.m.; 2) “Operasyon: Pag ga-am hong mga pinalanggang senior citizens,” which includes free dental extraction every Monday, 8:00 a.m.; 3) “Operasyon: Luwas Pag-atod Program,” which includes eye screening/cataract operation; 4) Lecture Demo Program wherein caregivers, patients, and students under the exposure program will undergo training and lecture on healthcare; 5) OSCA goes to barangays, wherein various services are provided to scheduled barangay; 6) Mortuary Assistance Program which provides cash assistance of P2,000.00 to the family members of 150 qualified deceased senior citizens residing in this city; and 7) Aerobic Training to senior citizens.

In his message, City Mayor Ferdinand Amante Jr. emphasized the great importance of the senior citizens in nation-building.

“Your participation in this program is very important because our partnership is part of nation-building,” Mayor Amante said.

Also, City Administrator Leah Mendoza stressed that senior citizens should enjoy the benefits that the government is providing them especially that they can now avail of the full 20% discounts on prescribed medicines and other amenities.

“I welcome this opportunity to be part of this program and not just because I am the City Administrator but also because I belong in this program for the senior citizens,” said Mendoza.

Meanwhile, other concerned agencies like Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Bureau of Internal Revenue, Department of Transportation and Communication, Department of Health, Food and Drugs Administration, Butuan City Water District, and Agusan del Norte Electric Cooperative also take part in discussing issues and concerns related to the benefits and privileges of the senior citizens. 

The city government with OSCA and partner agencies are now getting ready for the Senior Citizens Week celebration come October 1-10, 2010 with lined up activities. It is celebrated nationwide under Proclaimation No. 470, declaring the first week of October every year as Linggo ng Katandaang Pilipino (Elderly Filipino Week). (PIA-Caraga)  


RCDC prepares members for Cooperative Month celeb

By: Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY – The Regional Cooperative Development Council (RCDC) Caraga prepared its members for the Cooperative Month celebration on October 2010. Various activities were planned to be conducted next month to be participated in by the entire coop members in the region.

The celebration will kick-off on October 1 with a thanksgiving mass at the Cooperative Development Council (CDA) Caraga Conference Room, this city. 

Simultaneously, Bislig city coops will also participate in their parade to be followed with a program. On Oct. 3-31, the coops will also conduct sportsfest and radio exposure, and also planned for a tree-planting activity. Aside from that is the conduct of the Coop Forum on Good Governance.

According to RCDC Chairman Mr. Francisco Loque, Oct. 1-3, 2010 is set for the 2nd Philippine Coop Teamshop to be held at Dumaguete City by the organizers coming from CDA, NCDC, PCDC, and LGUs. Some coop sectors from Caraga had already registered to join the said teamshop.

Some coops in Caraga will also participate in the 10th National Coop Summit at Araneta Coliseum, Quezon City.

Loque also said that all coops in Dinagat Islands will hold a provincial Cooperative Summit on Oct. 15, 2010 while at the same time Butuan City coops will also hold the Seminar-Workshop on the Accreditation of Cooperative External Auditors wherein all CPAs auditing coops are enjoined to participate.

Also, CDA-Caraga Regional Director Manuela Pelaez bared that cooperative leaders and officers in the region are encouraged to participate in the Seminar on Implementing Rules and Regulations on Republic Act 9520 (an act amending the cooperative code of the Philippines to be known as the "Philippine Cooperative Code of 2008") at Balanghai Hotel and Convention Center, this city.

“RCDC will also conduct educational contest thru poster-making and quiz bee in the primary and secondary schools in Caraga. This is to  

Meanwhile, Oct. 30 is set for the culmination program which will start with a mass and then blessing of CDA-Caraga library wherein Caraga products will be displayed.

RCDC-Caraga calls on public and other government agencies to give their full support
in this endeavor. (PIA-Caraga) 

 
DENR leads 25th int’l coastal clean-up in Tandag

By Nida Grace B. Tranquilan

TANDAG, SURIGAO DEL SUR– The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) leads a coastal clean-up activity held recently along the shorelines of Brgy. Mabua, Tandag, this province.

It was a synchronized worldwide activity every September in response to the 25th International Coastal Clean-up Celebration joined by over 100 countries. Volunteers who joined the activity were engaged to remove trash and debris along coastal areas. 

This year’s theme: “Trust Travels: From our hands to the sea, Around the Globe through time”, Coastal Cleanup Day is the world's largest, one-day volunteer effort to clean up the marine environment like local beaches, rivers, lakes and canals to show their commitment to cleaner waterways.

Among the volunteers who joined the activity were the 36IB, Philippine Army under the command of LTC Rene Cañete, Surigao del Sur State University (SDSSU) students lead by Dr. Rogelio Bajamonde, NSTP Coordinator, Local Government Units (LGU) employees of Provincial Environment & Natural Resources Office (PENRO) and Community Environment and Natural Environment office (CENRO). (PIA-Surigao del Sur)


Cebuano News: dugang benipisyo sa Senior Citizen sa Butuan gituki sa seminar sa RA 9994

Ni Michael Imbo

BUTUAN CITY- Gituki sa kagamhanang lokal ang kahinungdanon sa Republic Act 9994 kon expanded senior citizens act of 2010 didto sa People’s Hall, ni’ng dakbayan, dili pa lang dogay.

Ang Akta Republika 9994 nagsaysay nga naghatag sa mga prihibiliyo sa mga senior citizens kon An act granting additional benefits and privileges to senior citizens, further amending Republic Act No. 7432, as amended, otherwise known as “An Act to maximize the contribution of senior citizens to nation building, grant benefits and special privileges and other purposes”.

Gipahigayon ang forum on Republic Act 9994 ubos sa pagdumala sa Office for Senior Citizens Affair ilalom sa liderato ni Ms. Joan A. Ancheta-Officer in Charge.

Si Butuan City Mayor Hon. Ferdinand M. Amante ang mismong mihatag sa mensahe nga nagtumbok sa dugang benipisyu ug mga prihibiliyo nga mahatag sa mga senior citizens sa dakbayan.

Sumala sa alkalde nga daku ang iyang suporta sa mga senior citizen kinsa duol sa iyang kasing-kasing ug nanginahanglan sa mga nag-unang benipisyo sama sa mga medical ug pinansyal nga panginahanglan.

Sa mensahe usab ni Butuan City Administrator Leah Mendoza mipaabot sab sa iyang suporta sa mga senior citizen, matud niini nga ang mga diskwento ug mga dugang benipisyo ang haum sa programa sa kagamhanan aron mapahimuslan sa mga senior citizen.

Gisaysay sa forum ang constitutional principles nga madawat nga prehibiliyo
Ang pag-ila sa katungod sa mga senior citizen diha sa kumunidad ug sa gobyerno.

Ang paghatag sa suporta sa ilang partisipasyon sa kumunidad ug mga aktibidades nga dunay interes alang sa nasud Pilipinas.

Pagpadayag sa ilang kasinatian ug mga natampo alang sa nasud nga mahimong pundasyun sa lig-on nga pamilya sa katilingban.

Gilauman nga mahatagan sa patas nga pagtagad sa gobyerno ug pribadong sector aron makab-ot sa mga senior citizens ang gitumbok nga mga benipisyo. (PIA-Caraga)


Cebuano News: Pre-Regional Science Fair gilusad sa Butuan City

Ni Michael Imbo

BUTUAN CITY - Malampuson ang gihimong programa sa mga magtutudlo uban ang mga magtutungha sa nagkadaiyang tunghaan didto sa West Central Elementary School, ni’ng dakbayan, dili pa lang dugay.

Ang gilusad nga Pre-Regional Science Fair kon Quiz naghatag kahigayunan sa mga kabataan nga mahulma ang ilang kaalam ug paghimo sa mga experiment nga may kalambigitan sa siyensya.

Si Dr. Ledwina Calo, Education Supervisor sa Department of Education-Butuan City Division ang nagsaysay nga ang programa gilusad aron ihatud ang mga nagkadaiyang ideya sa mga estudyante lakip na ang mga magtutudlo aron madugangan ang kalamboan nga matampo sa science ug teknolohiya.

Si Mr. Rodrigo Latonero, Principal sa West Central Elementary School ang mapasalamaton sa pagtambong sa mga magtutungha gikan sa elementarya ug high school diin didto sa iyang tunghaan gipahigayon ang programa.

Human niana, gipahigayon sab ang “Meet the Press” aron mapaabot ngadto sa kumunidad ang mga kalihukan ug proyektong gilusad sa mga magtutungha nga magamit sa teknolohiya ug bag-ong paagi sa science.

Ang tagsa-tagsa ka mga estudyante nga representante sa ilang tunghaan ang mihatag sa eksplenasyon kabahin sa science investigative project nga nakatabang sa pagamit sa teknolohiya ug mga ekspiremento.

Tutokan sa ahensya sa edukasyon ang paghatag ug dakong suporta sa mga kabataan nga mahimong salamin sa kausaban ug maghatod sa kalamboan nga dala sa sensya ug teknolohiya.

Ang Department of Education ang misanong nga mapadayon ang programa sa rehiyon ug makab-ot ang dekalidad nga edukasyon sa mga kabataan nga mauy gilauman nga kaugmaon sa nasud. (PIA-Caraga)


POLICE REPORTS 
By PO3 Arturo Suganob Campania

Report on encounter 

One Section of Operating Troops led by 2Lt Oscar Demacali composed of three (3) personnel of 42nd DRC, Six (6) personnel of 26 IB and two (2) from CAA, encountered more or less twenty (20) CTs led by Commander Pidot/Edoy of GF8, Northeastern Mindanao Regional Command (NEMRC) at the vicinity of Brgy Valentina, Esperanza, Agusan del Sur on September 22, 2010 at 7:20 am. Firefight lasted for more or less five (5) minutes until the enemy withdrew towards unknown direction. As a result, One unidentified male CT was killed on the enemy side while no casualty on the government side. The government troops also recovered two (2) unit m16 rifle with serial number 565211 and 1418291. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Report on shooting incident 

One Pepito Yonson y Bayed, 39 yrs old, married and res of Purok Aure, Brgy Talisay, Nasipit, Agusan del Norte was shot with the use of cal .357 revolver paltik hitting his left leg by one Uldarico Abendaño y Ramoga, 49 yrs old, married, also res of same place. Initial investigation disclosed that while the victim and his wife were on their way to Nasipit Port riding a single motorcycle, suspect also riding a single motorcycle overtook them and blocked their way, and shot the victim hitting his leg. Victim managed to run while suspect destroyed the victim's motorcycle. Victim proceeded to Nasipit District Hospital for treatment while suspect voluntarily surrendered at Nasipit MPS. Incident took place at Purok Aure, Brgy Talisay, Nasipit, Agusan del Norte on September 21, 2010 at 9:35 pm. Motive-personal grudge. Case now prepared for filing in court against the suspect. Progress report to follows.  

One Eddie Cagas y Ostos, 21 yrs old, married and res of P-2, Brgy Sta Cruz, Sibagat, Agusan del Sur was shot with the use of short firearm of unknown caliber by alias Toto Brital, legal age, driver and res of Brgy Sta Irene, Bayugan City. Victim sustained one gunshot wound on his chin that passes thru his right shoulder and he was immediately rushed to Bayugan Medical Hospital for medical treatment. PNP elements of Bayugan City Police Station upon receipt of the report immediately proceeded to the crime scene to conduct investigation and arrest the suspect. However, suspect already fled towards mountainous area of Sitio Bagodanon, Brgy Sta Irene, Bayugan City. Initial investigation disclosed that said suspect was allegedly mauled by the brother of the victim prior to the incident. Incident took place at P-1A, Brgy Taglatawan, Bayugan City on September 21, 2010 at 10:15 pm. Progress report to follows. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Report on robbery incident 

The house of Ronaldo Gardose y Galagate, 59 yrs old, widow, farmer located at P-9, Brgy Poblacion, Sta Josefa, Agusan del Sur was forcibly entered by unidentified suspect by destroying the padlocks and carted away assorted jewelries with an estimated amount of one million pesos and cash money amounting to Php 6,000.00. PNP elements of Sta Josefa MPS led by PINSP LLOYD JUMAMOY MERCADO now conducting in depth investigation for possible identity and arrest of the suspect. Progress report to follows. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Buenavista policemen arrest wanted person 

One Apolinario A Araña, 27 yrs old, single and res of Brgy Rizal, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte was arrested by PNP elements of Buenavista MPS led by PO3 Rogelio C Sarsaba by virtue of WOA dated September 15, 2010 issued by Judge Gael Paderanga of MTC, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte for the crime of grave slander, docketed under CC nr 3926 with recommended bailbond amounting to Php 6,000.00. Apprehension took place at Brgy Rizal, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte on September 20, 2010 at 2:20 pm. Suspect now detained at Buenavista MPS for proper disposition. 

One Arnold S Juntilla, 33 yrs old, married and res of P-2, Brgy Noli, Bayugan City was arrested by PNP elements of Bayugan City Police Station led by PO3 Nestor Rasonabe by virtue of WOA dated September 8, 2010 issued by Hon Judge Eduardo S Casals of RTC Branch 1, Butuan City for violation of RA 9262 (violence against women and children), docketed under CC nr 14359 with recommended bailbond amounting to Php 80,000.00. Apprehension took place at P-7, Brgy Noli, Bayugan City on September 21, 2010 at 11:00 am. Subject person now detained at Bayugan City PS for proper disposition. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Report on illegal gambling 

PNP elements of Tandag City Police Station led by PSINSP GALO MELLINA MARTINEZ arrested one Jayvy Ray Salcedo y Angcon, 23 yrs old, married and res of Monglow, Brgy Bag-ong Lungsod, Tandag City on September 21, 2010 at 7:00 pm at said place while actually caught engaged in illegal gambling known as last two digits and swertres based on PCSO Lotto Draw. Confiscated from suspect's possession were one (1) stub unfilled tally sheet; one (1) pc filled-up tally sheet; one (1) pc ballpen; one (1) stub unfilled receipt and cash bet money amounting to Php 785.00. Arrested person and confiscated items were brought to Tandag City Police Station for proper disposition. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)


Butuan masahista group upbeat on sustainability

BUTUAN CITY – Twenty nine masseuses, who marched for graduation this 18th day of September 2010 at the Barangay Youth Center here, became upbeat and optimistic of the bounties that could be theirs because benefactors and development facilitators such as the Barangay Local Government Unit (BLGU), PANGKALAMBUAN and other government agencies are providing them with a helping hand and a ray of hope for a sustainable tomorrow.  

Hon. Higinio S. Castañares, Brgy. Captain here, announced that the BLGU council has already approved in principle a commitment of PhP15,000.00 as a startup fund support for their collective livelihood venture. He likewise offered and designated one room of the Center, alternately used as an office of the Barangay Health Unit, to rev up their proclivity and inclination for practicing their new-found trade, which is body massage.

 He was of the belief that it is better to “teach a man how to fish, so that he will be able to feed himself for a lifetime.” That’s why he deemed that their trade, acquired through Alternative Learning System (ALS), is a good leverage for them to raise additional income for their family. He further suggested that they should organize themselves into a group so that at the bottom line the initial gains they have might be sustained.

Ana P. Lasco, Education Supervisor I of the Department of Education – Butuan City District, urged the graduates in her remarks that “you should start with your family. And if you have mastered it, you can radiate to the community where many needs your services.”  

 In consonance, TESDA came into the picture, offering a lifeline in terms of facilitating the group’s inclination to be organized, even to the point of helping them acquire a legal personality, so that they can transact business officially, not simply in a clandestine manner. 

Mr. Gervacio C. Dauz, Jr., Special Projects Focal Person who represented Provincial Director Leo Velez during the affair, said that “without legal personality, you will appear to be simply an informal group, which in a worse- case scenario can be sued easily by existing massage parlors which got a license to operate. To parry that, we shall therefore try to organize you into an association with legal personality.”  

In order to realize their desire, Mr. Dauz oriented them with the requirements and walked them through the means and manner of attaining or achieving a legal personality. Because of the guidance, the massage group resolved that they would apply for registration as soon as possible.

 PANGKALAMBUAN and the World Vision Development Foundation, Inc supported the massage group throughout the training period and had even provided them with a start up kits individually containing large towel, face towel, baby powder, alcohol, lotion, and massage oil in order for them to ply their trade.

World Vision, which is their main benefactor, envisions them to become self-reliant and sustainable so that they can support themselves through thick and thin by the time it withdraws in year 2013.  

Ms. Leonora Missiona, facilitator of the massage skills training and also a nationally certified masahista through the PGS Scholarship, became the interim President of the group for purposes of registering them. She was thankful of the intervention and expressed that “without TESDA helping us with the plan to be registered, we might be groping in the dark after our graduation.’

Even before the graduation, at least one enterprising trainee in the person of Ms. Ida Parcon testified that as an on-call practitioner she has already regular clients to boost and gained as much as PhP3,000.00 for her initiative. (Gervacio Dauz, Jr., TESDA-13/PIA-Caraga)


Trying to be at par with the best
60 masons go for trade enhancement and retooling 

BUTUAN CITY – Sixty masons, majority of whom are considered able and veterans in handling their wares, flocked at the Capitol Compound here this 20th day of September 2010 with the intent of attending the all-expenses paid Ang Espesyalistang Mason basic and enhancement training tendered by Pacific Cement Philippines, Inc . in cooperation with the Provincial Government of Agusan del Norte and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority of Agusan del Norte Provincial Office.

Provincial Administrator Percianita G. Racho, pinch hitting for the Hon. Governor Erlpe John M. Amante, thanked the PCPI or PACEMCO group for choosing the Province of Agusan del Norte as a beneficiary for this sought-after skills training. 

In response, Mr. Nestor Y. Saldivar, PACEMCO Vice President for Sales, pointed out that “it is our privilege to serve the people of Agusan del Norte.” He went on to reveal that the “Ang Espesyalistang Mason skills enhancement is a flagship program of our company anchored on its corporate social responsibility in partnership with TESDA. It is part of our company’s recognition of the value of masons as partners to its business and the construction industry as a whole.”

He disclosed that the current group of masons would be the 8th batch in their roster of beneficiaries. The company’s aim, he shared, is to “enhance the knowledge and skills of local masons by providing appropriate training and recognition” in order to improve their knowledge, skills and attitudes in accordance with industry standards.

As an icing to the cake, he divulged that under the program each participant will be provided with free tools and uniform, allowance, and bags of cement for training purposes.  

His primal request though from the participants was for them to really give their best in order that they will improve their skills and acquire a national certification that they can use to apply for work both here and abroad. “Comes a time,” he foresaw, “that you can no longer practice your trade without a national certification.”

As a post-training support, he urged the participants to be organized, so that they can easily be found, tapped, and recommended for existing jobs.  

Regional Director Florencio F. Sunico, Jr. of TESDA Caraga Region waxed ecstatic in behalf of his agency because the training program has been going on for the 8th time already and even beyond. “Our unflinching hope,” he mused, “is that the industry would continue with this kind of arrangement because they know best what’s good for them. This preferred mode, which is industry-based, is commendable and the prospect of landing a job is bright for our skilled workers.” 

Signing of the Memorandum of Agreement between and among PACEMCO, the Provincial Government, and TESDA followed suit to galvanize continuing partnership.  

Afterwards, Engr. Glenn G. Zerda of PACEMCO oriented the participants on what to expect during the six-day training, a greater part of which would be the acquisition of core competencies like hollow block laying, plastering, and baluster laying. Statistics-wise, he showed that their program as of 20th day of September 2010 had already 223 graduates, wherein 154 of whom were assessed and only 135 successfully acquired the national certification status.  

As for regional work opportunity, he shared that the Taganito Mining Corp. in partnership with the Sumitomo Metal Mining Co., Ltd. urgently need an initial 5,000 workers for the $1.0 Billion High Pressure Acid Leach Nickel Plant in Claver, Surigao dle Norte. PACEMCO, he twinkled, was given the arrangement to recommend workers, particularly masons, for the construction of their bunkhouses, staff houses, administration building, hospital, etc.  

Hon. Loreto Maragañas, Sangguniang Panlalawigan Member, pointed out that “organizing the group into an association with legal personality is on the right track so that we, from the Provincial Government, can help you” through allocation of resources.  

“The standard that we have,” said Leo V. Velez, TESDA Provincial Director, “is a result of consultation with the industry. Our job then is to qualify and certify workers such as you as a matter of standardizing the practice of your trade.” He finally declared the commencement of the 8th Batch Ang Espesyalistang Mason Training. (Gervacio Dauz, Jr., TESDA-13/PIA-Caraga)


Mayor Amante inducted MSMED Council co-chair

BUTUAN CITY – In an unprecedented move, Hon. Ferdinand Amante, Jr., City Mayor here, attended the Butuan City Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise Development (MSMED) Council session this 21st day of September 2010 at the SME Center, DTI-Agusan del Norte Provincial Office and was eventually inducted into office by DTI Provincial Officer Gay A. Tidalgo as co-chair of the said body, which is composed of representatives from government line agencies, city government unit, and the private sector.  

His presence infused needed moral support and spurred upbeat projections for the future of Butuan MSMED Council as per sentiment from those present and augured well for Chairperson Eufroceles D. Udarbe, Sr., who noted that it was “the first time in history that the City Mayor of Butuan has graced our meeting.”

Tackled during the meeting was the legal basis of the existence of the body under Republic Act 9501, which is “An act to promote entrepreneurship . . . ” amending for the purpose the previous act known as R.A. 6977.

As reflected in Section 7 of R.A. 9501, the creation of MSMED Council is mandated to effectively spur the growth and development of MSMEs; to carry out policies to strengthen the promotion and assistance to MSMEs; and to provide an institutionalized venue for public-private sector dialogue on policy issues and action programs affecting MSMEs.  

Mr. Winston A. Guillen, representing the United Furniture Makers Multi-Purpose Cooperative, put emphasis during the meeting about the need to advocate Results-Based Management (RBM), which is about measuring the relevance and success rate of an agency or organization not merely on the basis of its activities and output, but on the more primal level, which is about outcome and impact.

He pointed out that a lot of agencies confuse and even equate activity with productivity, which should not be the case.  

Finding sense and credence in his remarks, the body unanimously agreed and approved the need to drumbeat the gospel of RBM in order that there will be a common perspective for measuring success. Even Mayor Amante decided to give the emerging assessment gospel a chance to be tried in his sphere of influence and assigned DTI to facilitate the conduct of it.  

Tackled also during the meeting were the MSMED Council’s powers, duties and functions, to wit: (a) Policy formulation; (b) Program advocacy; and (c) Program coordination and integration.
At the operational level, Ms. Tidalgo, DTI Provincial Officer, pointed out that currently the MSMED Council’s Center or nerve center of operation is still lodge at the DTI Office. But she implored that it should technically be under the independent care and management of the private sector.  

In a related development, she divulged that the MSMED Council will be looking forward to a wider and more comfortable space, where it can display products, conduct conference, and put up office for purposes of pushing the agenda of MSMEs in Butuan City.

Ms. Vivian Otaza of the Caraga Travel Links egged Mayor Amante to assign a space to be converted into a Tourism Assistance Center in order to improve the climate for attracting and engaging tourists not only in the city, which is considered to be the regional seat, but in the entire Caraga Region as well.

Mr. Egmidio Tidalgo, Jr., representing the Micro Entrepreneurs Club, was voted and also inducted into office as the new Public Information Officer of the Council.

Mr. Gervacio C. Dauz, Jr of TESDA Agusan del Norte likewise pushed the idea wherein the city government can have its cake and eat it too. He was referring to the adoption and implementation of national certification (NC) for Driving, which is not only an adjunct to the tourism industry, but cuts across the gamut of transport services and societal mobility. To operationalize the idea, the city government, he argued, can offer NC II Driving Course in its Butuan City Manpower Training Center through legislation. As a follow through, it can further set up an Assessment Center for purposes of gauging the skills of the drivers. And if they pass the hurdle, they will be awarded with a national certification by TESDA, which is “legal tender” both locally and abroad.  

If adopted and implemented, it can mean generation of additional funds for the city government and at the same time improving the standard of doing things as well as expanding the opportunity of alleviating poverty through self or wage employment either here or abroad.  

Enshrined in Section 22 of Republic Act No. 7796 or commonly known as the TESDA Act is the mandate for TESDA to establish national occupational skill standards. Hence, the Authority shall develop and implement a certification and accreditation program in which private industry group and trade associations are accredited to conduct approved trade tests, and the local government units to promote such trade testing activities in their respective areas in accordance with the guidelines to be set by the Authority.

Mayor Amante, in consonance with other members of the Council, became optimistic that the idea raised was not only doable but sustainable as well. As a vote of confidence, he even went on to disclose his preference for technical education and skills development: “I am shifting my administration’s scholarship priorities from baccalaureate degrees to vocational training.”

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In the end, he reasoned out with reference to the whole Council: “My presence is simply that I want to engage with you.” (Gervacio Dauz, Jr., TESDA-13/PIA-Caraga)