(PAGASA 24-HOUR PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST as of Friday, 13 December 2024) Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) affecting the western section of Mindanao and Palawan. Shear Line affecting the eastern sections of Central and Southern Luzon. Northeast Monsoon affecting Northern Luzon and the rest of Central Luzon. 𝗙𝗒π—₯π—˜π—–π—”π—¦π—§ π—ͺπ—˜π—”π—§π—›π—˜π—₯ π—–π—’π—‘π——π—œπ—§π—œπ—’π—‘: Butuan City, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Norte and Surigao del Sur will experience partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms due to Localized Thunderstorms. Possible flash floods or landslides during severe thunderstorms. 𝗙𝗒π—₯π—˜π—–π—”π—¦π—§ π—ͺπ—œπ—‘π—— 𝗔𝗑𝗗 π—–π—’π—”π—¦π—§π—”π—Ÿ π—ͺπ—”π—§π—˜π—₯ π—–π—’π—‘π——π—œπ—§π—œπ—’π—‘: Moderate to Strong winds coming from East to Northeast will prevail with slight to moderate seas / (0.6 to 2.5 meters).


PIA News Service - Friday, December 10, 2010

Aboitiz Foundation commits to rehabilitate Sta. Ana Day Care Center in Nasipit

By: Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY (10 December) - In its effort to support the pre-basic education needs of the children in Barangay Sta. Ana, Nasipit, Agusan del Norte, Aboitiz Foundation through the Therma Marine, Inc. donated some Php 256,000 to Brgy. Capt. Miguel Tadena for the rehabilitation of Sta. Ana Day Care Center.

 Mr. Miguel Tadena, Sta. Ana Brgy. Captain receives the check amounting to Php 256,000.00 from Mr. Jan Risager (left), plant manager of Therma Marine, Inc. (TMI), and Mr. Jose Venancio Batiquin (right), Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Aboitiz Power Corporation in a ceremony on Friday, December 10, 2010 at NNVS covered court, Nasipit, Agusan del Norte. TMI committed to support the rehabilitation of Sta. Ana Day Care Center for which, the building is already dilapidated. (PIA-Caraga)

In a formal turnover of check held on Friday (December 10) at the covered court of Nasipit National Vocational School (NNVS), Brgy. Capt. Tadena said the presence of the power barge in their barangay also means additional support to their barangay.

“For how many years that the power barge plant is operating in our barangay, we’ve been receiving financial assistance of Php 10,000 monthly from the Plant Manager Mr. Jan Risager. This means that as long as Aboitiz Foundation is here, we will continue to receive blessings from them,” Tadena said.

Tadena further said, with the cash assistance donated by the company, the Sta. Ana Day Care Center Building will be rehabilitated the soonest possible time. 

“The building of our day care center is already dilapidating. Because of this, we are now using portion of our barangay center to make sure that the pupils are comfortable during their classes. Thus, this donation from Aboitiz Foundation will make the education environment of our pupils more conducive for them to learn,” the barangay official said.

The turn-over ceremony was attended by officials and personnel of Aboitiz Foundation, as well as the faculty, staff, and students of NNVS, and some guests from the government sector. (PIA-Caraga)


Aboitiz Foundation turns-over 15 computer units to NNVS

By: Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY (10 December) – Aboitiz Foundation through the Therma Marine, Inc. turned-over on Friday (December 10) 15 computer units with complete peripherals to Nasipit National Vocational School (NNVS) in Bayview Hill, Nasipit, Agusan del Norte.


Dr. Evlena Moron, high school principal of Nasipit National Vocational School switches the computer unit donated by Therma Marine, Inc. (TMI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Aboitiz Power Corporation during the turn-over ceremony on Friday, December 10, 2010 at NNVS covered court, Nasipit, Agusan del Norte. Witnessing the ceremonial switching are Mr. Jan Risager, TMI plant manager (extreme right) and Mr. Jose Venancio P. Batiquin, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Aboitiz Power Corporation. (PIA-Caraga)

During the turn-over ceremony held this morning at NNVS covered court, Aboitiz Power Corporation Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Jose Venancio Batiquin led the company in signing the Deed of Donation and was accepted by the school officials through the High School Principal Dr. Evlena Moron who signed the Deed of Acceptance.

Speaking before the faculty, staff, students, and guests, Dr. Moron expressed her appreciation to the foundation for the bountiful blessings they have given to the school. 

“We would like to express our deepest appreciation to Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. for giving our students the opportunity to avail the cash financial assistance of the company. This is already a big help to the parents of these 15 students,” Moron said.

Also, EVP Batiquin, in his speech said, Aboitiz Foundation is prioritizing education highlighting their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) because the company believes that the students will be the future leaders of the country. “We should prepare the students to be the global warrior in the future as the world tends to become an information and communications technology (ICT) generation,” he said.

Through the donation, Aboitiz Foundation is hoping that the technological knowledge and skills of the students in NNVS will be improved to cope with the demands of globalization. (PIA-Caraga)


Aboitiz Foundation awards financial assistance to freshmen high school studes in Butuan, Nasipit

By: Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY (10 December 2010) – 30 freshmen high school students received financial assistance from Therma Marine, Inc. Mobile 2, formerly the NAPOCOR Power Barge moored at Nasipit, Agusan del Norte.


Freshmen students of Nasipit National Vocation School (NNVS) posed with their teachers after receiving the financial cash assistance from Therma Marine, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Aboitiz Power Corporation in a ceremony held on Friday, December 10, 2010 at NNVS covered court, Nasipit, Agusan del Norte. The beneficiaries graduated on top of their respective classes in different elementary schools in Nasipit, Agusan del Norte. (PIA-Caraga)

In separate ceremonies conducted on Thursday and Friday, December 9 and 10, 15 freshmen students from Agusan National High School who graduated class valedictorians in different elementary schools here received on Thursday Php 3,000 from Aboitiz Power Corporation Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Jose Venancio Batiquin. The awarding ceremony was held at the People’s Hall of the Butuan City Hall.

In his speech, Butuan City Mayor Dr. Ferdinand M. Amante, Jr. stressed his heartfelt thanks and gratitude to Aboitiz Foundation for choosing Butuan City as one of the recipients nationwide.

Meanwhile, 15 students in Nasipit, Agusan del Norte also received same financial assistance from Batiquin in a ceremony conducted on Friday at the covered court of the Nasipit National Vocational School in Bayview Hill, Nasipit, Agusan del Norte. The students also graduated on top of their respective classes in different elementary schools in the municipality as class valedictorians and salutatorians, respectively.

According to Mr. Victorino Sumalinog, Aboitiz Foundation’s Corporate Social Responsibility Chairperson, the recipients will have to maintain a grade weighed average of 88% to qualify for the next school year. During their second year, they will be receiving Php 4,000; third year – Php 5,000 and; fourth year – Php 6,000. After finishing the secondary education, the recipients may have the chance to be awarded scholarship program for their college education. 

“If all of them qill qualify until 4th year, the company, depending on the budget, will only get 10 scholars from the fifteen. Thus, five of these recipients will be eliminated from availing the scholarship program,” Sumalinog said.

Sumalinog further stressed, the ten scholarship slots will be determined in a competitive examination for which the 15 recipients from each place will be qualified to take. The examination will be administered by the company.

This noble undertaking of the Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. is in support to the thrusts and programs of the Aquino Administration to promote the “Education for All” program of the Department of Education (DepEd). (PIA-Caraga)


Mayor Amante cites education as a way to achieve goals

By: Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY (10 December) – Mayor Ferdinand Amante, Jr. on Thursday (December 9) cited the importance of education as a way to achieve one’s dream’s and aspirations in life.


Fifteen freshmen students from Agusan National High School received financial assistance from Therma Marine, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Aboitiz Power Corporation in a ceremony held on Thursday, December 9, 2010 at the People’s Hall of the Butuan City Hall. Also in photo are officials of Aboitiz Power Corporation and Butuan City Mayor – Dr. Ferdinand Amante, Jr. (PIA-Caraga)

Addressing his speech to the fifteen freshmen students of Agusan National High School (ANHS) during the awarding of financial grants by Therma Marine, Inc. (TMI) of the Aboitiz Power Corporation, Mayor Amante said TMI’s project will lead the student-beneficiaries in achieving their ambitions.

Citing his personal experience, the city’s top official said, he did not expect that he has accomplished what he has achieved now. “I did not expect that I was able to reach this position that I am holding right now. But because of education, I did it,” he said.

With these developments, Amante challenged the beneficiaries to be at their best and excel in whatever academic activities they will be joining. “You are the future leaders of your generation… we have high hopes in you. This opportunity comes to your life ones. Do not waste this opportunity. Be the best that you can be,” the Mayor stressed.

The first batch of financial grantees of the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) project will be receiving Php 3,000 each in their freshmen year; Php 4,000 during their second year; Php 5,000 in their junior years and; Php 6,000 in senior. 

After graduating in secondary education, the first batch of college scholars will be chosen among them through a competitive examination, it was learned.

The awarding ceremony was held at the People’s Hall of Butuan City Hall attended by ANHS faculty and students as well as public and private stakeholders. (PIA-Caraga)


Aboitiz Foundation inks MOA with Agusan del Norte PENRO to protect, preserve environment

By: Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY (10 December) – “Protecting and preserving the ecology is one of the priority concerns of Aboitiz Foundation,” thus said Jose Venancio P. Batiquin, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Aboitiz Power Corporation.

Mr. Jose Venancio P. Batiquin, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Aboitiz Group of Companies signs the memorandum of agreement with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources through PENRO Agusan del Norte representative (left) committing their company to protect and preserve the environment by planting trees in Nasipit, Agusan del Norte to mitigate the impact brought about by climate change. The MOA signing was held at the covered court of Nasipit National vocation School, Bayview Hills, Nasipit, Agusan del Norte. Also in photo are Mr. Jan Risager (holding a newspaper), Therma Marine, Inc. Plant Manager, and an official of the provincial government of Agusan del Norte. (PIA-Caraga)


True to this, the company signed a memorandum of agreement with the presence of the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer (PENRO) Agusan del Norte Rosendo Asunto who was ably represented by his personnel held on Friday (December 10) at the covered court of Nasipit National Vocational School in Bayview Hills, Nasipit, Agusan del Norte.

According to Aboitiz Power Corporation’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Chairman Mr. Victorino Sumalinog of Davao Light, the company is committed to plant 1 million trees nationwide. 

“This is one way of showing the company’s commitment to help in mitigating the effects of climate change for which, we are all affected. Also, the company is envisioned to protect and preserve our mother nature,” Sumalinog said.

Further, Sumalinog stressed that the tree-planting activity was already made in Amontay, Nasipit, Agusan del Norte on October 6, 2010 which was also simultaneously conducted in other places in the country. (PIA-Caraga)

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POLICE REPORTS
By PO3 Arturo Suganob Campania

Report on illegal possession of firearm

One Jessie Villena Comendador, 37 years old, married, caretaker of Smart Cell site repeater and resident of Purok 14, Pulang Lupa, Trento, Agusan del Sur was arrested by PNP members of Trento Municipal Police Station (MPS) led by PO1 Norman Orit while actually caught in his possession one unit cal .45 pistol, bearing serial number 479585 with one magazine. 

Subject failed to show legal documents of said firearm. Case for violation of RA 8294 (illegal possession of firearm) was already filed at Provincial Prosecutor’s Office, Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur under I.S. Nr 13-03-INQ-10L-069 while seized firearm now under the custody of Trento MPS for proper disposition.
(PNP-13/PIA-Caraga) 

Report on illegal gambling 

PNP elements of Butuan City Police Station 1 led by SPO4 Demetrio Castulo Jr conducted operation against illegal gambling on December 5, 2010 at 3:10 pm at the sidewalk of Ester Luna Street, Brgy Leon Kilat, Butuan City apprehended one Rufo Ferrer y Anion (usher), 68 yrs old, married, res of P-2B, Brgy Bading, Butuan City. 

Confiscated from his possession were one (1) pc filled-up swertres tally sheet, two (2) pcs filled-up ticket stub, one (1) pc ballpen and bet money amounting to Php 500.00. Subject and confiscated items were brought to Vice Control Section of BCPO for proper disposition. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Report on shooting incident 

One PO3 Bornio Mercader, PNP member assigned at Dinagat Islands PPO and a res of Brgy Mamis, Barobo, Surigao del Sur was shot by armed men wearing military camouflage uniform believed to be CTs. 

Initial investigation disclosed that subject was playing basketball at Brgy Mamis, Barobo on December 8, 2010 at 5:00 am when the armed men approached and shot him with the use of undetermined cal of firearm. He managed to run but was chased and shot again several times. PNP elements of 1st Regional Public Safety Company base at Cutlog, Barobo, Surigao del Sur now conducting hot pursuit operations while PNP personnel of Barobo MPS now conducting investigation to locate the whereabouts of the victim. Progress report to follows. 

Also, one Romeo Quizada, 33 yrs old, single, tricycle driver and res of Cadugan, Brgy Bag-ong Lungsod, Tandag, Surigoa del Sur was shot to death by three (3) unidentified persons using undetermined cal of firearm on December 8, 2010 at 8:30 in the evening at Boulevard of said Barangay.  

Initial investigation conducted by Tandag Police Station disclosed that said victim together with his live-in partner Analiza Amago were on board his driven tricycle and while on their way to Quezon Street of said Brgy and upon reaching Boulevard, another single motorcycle with three (3) unidentified persons on board shot them hitting the victim’s leg. Victim tried to escape but chased by the perpetrators and shot again five times resulting to his death. SOCO team in Surigao del Sur PPO led by SPO3 Arnel Vertudazo conducted crime scene investigation and recovered eight (8) spent shells and one live ammo of undetermined cal of firearm. 

Remains of the victim was brought to Saint Peter Funeral Homes for post mortem examination. PNP elements of Tandag Police Station now conducting follow-up investigation for possible identity of the suspects. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Report on arrested wanted person

One Lourme Derama Abia, 33 yrs old, married and res of Brgy Lantungan, Aurora, Zamboanga del Sur was arrested by joint PNP personnel of Aurora Police Station of PRO 9 and Butuan City Police Station 2 led by PO1 Moises Macalolot Jr by virtue of WOA issued by Hon Judge Augustus Calo of RTC Branch 5, Libertad, Butuan City dated November 24, 2010, docketed under CC nr 14147 for the crime of estafa with recommended bailbond amounting to Pjp 240,000.00. 

Apprehension took place at Brgy Lantungan, Aurora, Zamboanga del Sur on December 8, 2010 at 4:30 pm. Subject person was brought to Butuan City Police Station 2 for proper disposition. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)


Alameda wins SK Provl Federation in Surigao del Sur

By Nida Grace B. Tranquilan

San Agustin Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Municipal Federation President Manuel F. Alameda Jr., wins today’ elections in the SK Federation for Provincial level held at Shacene Pension House, Mabua, Tandag today, December 10..

Per information received from Provincial DILG information Officer Ernie Gultiano, the newly elected SK Federation President is the son of Vice Governor Manuel O. Alameda, Sr. of this province unanimously won with 19 votes over his opponent.

Meanwhile, the elections for “Liga ng Mga Punong Barangay” Provincial Federation President will be set on Friday, December 17. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)

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Missing PNP personnel shot by suspected CTs in Brgy Mamis

By: Nida Grace B. Tranquilan

Surigao del Sur (December 9) - PO3 Bornio Mercader, member of Philippine National Police (PNP) presently assigned at Dinagat Police Provincial Office was shot by undetermined number of armed men at Brgy Mamis, Barobo, of this province on December 8, 2010 at around 5 pm.

Police reports revealed that, while PO3 Mercader was playing basketball when a group of men wearing camouflage uniform with patches of 26IB Phil. Army believed to be the members of Communist Terrorists (CTs) NPA suddenly arrived at Brgy Mamis and fired several times towards him using undetermined caliber of long fire arms.

Report said, the victim managed to run towards nearby bridge of the said place but he was chased and shot again several times by members of the said group.

Barobo Chief of Police Officer Darwin Yu in a phone patch interview said that the victim is still missing as of press time, and motive of the incident is yet to be determined. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)


Cebuano news: CCPD nagpahigayon og symposium on culture of life 

Ni Michael Imbo

Butuan City - Padayon sa adbokasiya sa pagbukas sa mga diyalogo ug symposium on Culture of life nga gipangunahan sa Caraga Conference For Peace and Development (CCPD) aron matugkad sa katawhan ang kahinungdanon paghisgut sa mga nag-unang isyu lambigit sa Reproductive Health Bill, dili pa lang dugay didto sa St. Peter College, Km. 6. Ampayon, ni’ng dakbayan.

Nahimong dinapit nga keynote speaker si 2nd District ParaΓ±aque Congressman Roilo Golez isip usa ka mambabalaod sa renda sa kongreso.

Si Rev. Fr. Carlito Clase ang nitampo sa pagpasalamat ngadto sa mga mitambong sa maong kalihukan gikan sa mga opisyales sa gobyerno, mga sector sa negosyante, religious group, kumunidad ug nagkalain-laing advocate group gikan sa Cagayan de Oro, Iligan ug Bukidnon.

Duyog sa pag-abi-abi gipadayag ni Rev. Fr. James Michael Abellanosa ang dakung kalipay sa pag-abot sa mga bisita lakip na ang mga dinapit nga speaker.

Una nga mipagawas sa iyang mga ideyalismo ug panlantaw si Dr. Eleonor Palabyab, Obstetrician and Gynecologist gikan sa Davao City. Matud niini nga ang kinabuhi kinahanglan ampingan.

Gipadayag ni Cong. Roilo Golez ang mga naka-apektong butang sa nasud sa pagpasa sa Reproductive Health Bill. Gisaysay niini ang gidaghanon sa populasyon sa laing nasud ug ang ilang pagsaka sa ekonomiya.

Hugot nga gipakusgan niini ang kampanya batok sa RH Bill, ang mga kongresista padayon nga nabuak gumikan sa nagkalain-laing rason alang sa ilang mga baruganan lambigit sa maong isyu. 

Nagmalampuson ang kalihukan uban sa suporta ni Caraga Conference for Peace and Development (CCPD) Convenor-Butuan City Bishop Most Rev. Juan Dios Pueblos pinaagi sa iyang panapos nga mensahe alang sa kalinaw ug panlantaw nga ikalambo sa rehiyon lakip na sa tibuok nasud sa Pilipinas. (PIA-Caraga)


Regional BPLS launched


The Regional Business Permit and Licensing System (BPLS) streamlining was recently launched at the Peoples’ Hall, Butuan City Hall, Brgy. Doongan this city, spearheaded by the Regional Office of the Department of Interior and Local Government, the Regional Office of the Department of Trade and Industry and the City Government of Butuan.

Butuan LGU after a successful launching and inauguration of its version of the project last October served both as the host and a showcase of its success for the other LGU beneficiaries invited for the activity. 

Though unfavorable weather hazard kept the invited guest of honor and speaker DILG Secretary Jesse Robredo and his party to make it to the occasion, he was ably represented by DILG Caraga Regional Director Atty. Rene K. Burdeos. The representatives of the two international development agencies which supported the project were present, the Agencia Espanola de Cooperacion Internacional Para El Desarrollo (AECID) represented by its Regional Director Mr. David Arnaldo and the USAID Local Implementation of National Competitiveness for Economic Growth (USAID LINC-EG) by its Deputy Chief of Party Ms. Ofelia M. Templo. The other sponsors for the activity includes the Embajada De Espana En Pilipinas and the Biyaheng Pinoy.

Also in attendance for the event were the regional directors of the different line agencies, top city officials and chiefs of offices, representatives of the beneficiary LGUs, business people, presidents of the chambers of commerce and other guests.

Mayor Ferdinand M. Amante, Jr. during his message for the occasion mentioned about the USAID LINC-EG visit to Butuan City last July, and challenged his administration to answer the President’s call during his SONA, and streamline the processing and granting of permits and issuing of licenses at the city hall. Supposedly the target date will be on January next year. However, the mayor said that through the efforts of City Councilor Ryan Anthony Culima, the chair of the committee of commerce, trade and industry of the City Council, Mr. Paul Cabrera of the Business and Licensing Section of the city government, it was decided to start right away the streamlining process.

The project was realized, Amante said, so that last October he signed Executive Order No. 11, launching the city’s fast lane processing of permits and licensing, making Butuan City a showcase in implementing the project in the Caraga Region. While the call of the President is to shorten the process of transaction to at least 15 minutes, the first five to apply for their permits during the simulation last October got their permits in 12 minutes.

DILG Caraga Regional Director Atty. Rene K. Burdeos during his keynote message for the launching said that the regional launching of the BPLS is based on the Joint Memorandum Circular of the DILG and the DTI, which were both members of the Philippine Development Forum.

He made mention that originally, the pilot project of the streamlining of the BPLS were the LGUs of Butuan City, Surigao City, Claver, Tubod and the town of Mainit, all in Surigao del Norte. The projects were to be implemented, supposedly in these 5 pilot projects for over three years. However, the DILG wanted to expand the project to some more LGUs in the region, which prodded them to find some agencies for assistance. Through the assistance of the AICED, the project is now expanded to include Cabadbaran, in Agusan del Norte; Bislig and Tandag in Surigao del Sur; Bayugan and San Francisco, all in Agusan del Sur.

The legal basis for the activity is the RA 9484 (otherwise known as the Anti-Red Tape Act), which objective is to improve the efficient delivery of services to the people by reducing the transaction time, the steps and other aspects involved in the process, thus eliminating red tape and consequently prevent the chances of graft and corruption. (Noel B. Najarro, The Butuan Star/PIA-Caraga)


Support agencies shows optimism on Reg’l BPLS success

The Agencia Espanola de Cooperacion Internacional Para El Desarrollo (AICED) and the USAID Local Implementation of National Competitiveness for Economic Growth (LINC-EG) both maintains a positive outlook over the success of implementing the streamlining of the Business and Permit Licensing System (BPLS) of some pilot LGUs in the region.

The representatives of the aforesaid agencies expressed strong optimism of the project’s success in their respective messages during the regional launching of the said project held at the Peoples Hall, City Hall, Brgy. Doongan, this city.

AICED Region XIII Regional Director David Arnaldo said in his message during the launching that his agency is pleased to partner with the DILG in implementing a project which will help in the strengthening of the local government in the country. He said that his agency will be here for a length of time, and it will be a pleasure to work with some LGUs. He said that their presence will soon be felt as he and his team will be moving around to the places of these pilot local government units as they will be supervising on how the project is going, the conduct of its implementation and other aspects of the projects.

He reminded however the pilot LGUs that AICED is a public agency of the Spanish government and the funds which were spent for the project did not come from some rich NGO institutions, but from the taxpayers of his country. He said that it is important to translate the message to all Spanish families back in his country that the project spent with their taxes was a success and helped much in the progressive development of the respective pilot local governments.

For her part, USAID LINC-EG Deputy Party Chief in her message for the occasion congratulated Butuan City government and Mayor Amante for accepting and launching the BPLS ahead of time. She confirmed her visit together with Mr. Alid David Camara, LINC-EG, USAID Chief of Party together with USAID representative John Avila sometimes in July. She said that they’ve met with Mayor Amante and Agusan del Norte Gov. Erlpe John M. Amante , City Administrator Leah Mendoza and other officials and discussed with them regarding the BPLS Project. She said that she was impressed with the commitment of the City Mayor.

She disclosed that LINC-EG’s support for Butuan City may end sometimes in September and described her agency’ support for Butuan City as “catalytic” which may pave the way towards a reformed BPLS project with the pilot LGUs.

She also said that the USAID would like to see the pilot cities ranking very high in the different competitiveness surveys in the future compared to the other cities of the country. (Noel B. Najarro, The Butuan Star/PIA-Caraga)

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30IB to hold MEDCAP, Grand Pulong-Pulong in Surigao Norte barangays

Surigao del Norte (December 10) - The 30th Infantry Battalion (30IB), 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army stationed at Barangay Santa Cruz, Placer, which has jurisdiction over the three provinces of Surigao del Norte, Dinagat and Agusan del Norte, will be having a series of Medical and Dental Civic Action Program (MEDCAP) and “Grand Pulong-pulong” to a number of barangays of the province.

According to Lieutenant Colonel Erwin Rommel Lamzon, Commanding Officer of the 30IB, the MEDCAP activities for Surigao City are scheduled on December 13 to the clustered barangays of Silop, Capalayan and Mapawa. 

December 14 at Brgy. Ima in Sison and December 15 at the clustered barangays of Sukailang, Anomar, Mat-I and Trinidad all in Surigao City. 

For Malimono town, Lamzon said they are scheduled to visit on December 16 at the clustered barangays of Tinago, Hanagdong, Cansayong, Masgad, Cantapoy and Bunyasan while on December 17 they will visit Brgy. Cantugas in Mainit and December 20 in Brgy. Gacepan, Sison.

On the other hand, the Grand Pulong-pulong is also scheduled simultaneously on December 11 to the following barangays: Brgy. Cantugas, Mainit; Brgy. Gacepan and Ima in Sison; Brgy. Cantapoy, Malimono; Brgy. Capalayan, Surigao City. 

On December 12, they are scheduled at Brgy. Tinago, Malimono and Brgy. Silop, Surigao City. Another simultaneous Grand Pulong-pulong activity is also scheduled on December 18 at the barangays of Mat-I and Trinidad in Surigao City and Cansayong and Bunyasan in Malimono. December 19 at Brgy. Masgad, Malimono and December 20 at Brgy. Mapawa, Surigao City.

The purpose of the dialogue according to Lamzon is to enhance the residents’ awareness on AFP's role on peace, security and development in their respective barangays. (PIA-Surigao del Norte)


Youths from Surigao del Sur, TAYO awardees

BUTUAN CITY – The Pro-Drop Out Reduction Program (PRO-DORP) Team from Cantilan, Surigao del Sur received an award from President Benigno Simeon Aquino III as one of this year’s winner of the Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations (TAYO) in a ceremony held on December 9 at the Heroes’ Hall in MalacaΓ±an Palace aired over Radyo ng Bayan stations nationwide.

Seven years ago, Cantilan, Surigao del Sur only had one public high school, the Cantilan National High School having a population of 1,013 students.

Based on records, the school had an alarming dropout rate of 15.28% in the school year 2003-2004. 

As a response to the disturbing reality, the PRO DORP Team formally set up the Reach-Out-Not-Drop-Out-Program in 2007 which addressed the individual issues hindering students from staying in school.

In line with this program, four sub-programs namely, Suporta Mo Kinabukasan Ko, Feed My Brain, Maglaro at Mag-usap Tayo, and EmpATHY were formulated based on the components family, individual, community and school respectively.

Representatives for each sub programs discovered valuable information on why students kept dropping out.

From the Suporta Ko, Kinabukasan Mo program, it was found out that 80% of the students could not pay miscellaneous fees on time which was resolved by launching an effort of scouting for some sponsors. 

Through Feed My Brain, the problem of poor comprehension because of malnutrition was countered with a feeding program.

Meanwhile, Maglaro at Mag-usap Tayo focused in addressing the presence of gangs inside the campus by intensifying school activities and group counseling.

EmpATHY or Empower the Teachers to Help the Young on the other hand realized that teachers likewise needed to address the personal as well as the student’s emotional problems through counseling.

Painstakingly the PRO DORP Team sustained the programs which resulted to positive results.

As of school year 2009-2010, the drop-out rate has been successfully reduced to 1.87%, a staggering 13% difference compared to the drop-out rate recorded in school year 2003-2004.

To this date, the PRO DORP Team continued with the programs and is now aiming for a 0% drop-out rate by 2015, inspired by the improvement showed by students of Cantilan.

Other TAYO Awardees are Mandaya Tribal Youth Organization from Mabetas, Upper Ulip, Monkayo, Compostela Valley; Pag-Asa Youth Organization Talisay City Chapter from Cebu; Pagaypay 4-H Club of Barangay Pagaypay, Passi City, Iloilo; Link.Exe-West Visayas State University of Iloilo City; Brotherhood for Peace, Baguio City; Education Revolution Movement (EdRev), Sta. Maria, Bulacan; Pochon Maanichar Centennial Batch Association, Inc., Ifugao Province; Alay ni Ignacio (ANI)-Ateneo de Manila University, Quezon City and the Philippine Stagers Foundation from Balic-Balic in Manila.

Each of the winning groups received 50,000 pesos cash grants from Coca Cola Foundation Philippines and custom-made trophies specially crafted by Artist Toym de Leon Imao, wherein a total of 70 youth organizations made it to the finals, 19 of them were from Mindanao. 

TAYO campaigns for citizens not to rely on government, but to work on improving their communities by themselves where qualifiers range from 15-30 years old. (Jocelyn E. Morano, Radyo ng Bayan Butuan/PIA-Caraga)


Legarda lauds palace order to withdraw case against Morong 43

Senator Loren Legarda today lauded the government’s move for the dismissal of cases filed against the Morong 43, the group of health workers arrested February this year on allegations of links to the communist group.

A day before the announcement from the President, Legarda visited the health workers at Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City, where they are being detained, to check their condition. 

“This move from the executive is great news especially today when we are celebrating International Human Rights Day. When I visited them yesterday I was concerned with their health especially that they have been on a hunger strike since last Friday,” she said.

“Now that the President has ordered the withdrawal of their cases, we hope that courts would act on it immediately. In fact, pending the court’s resolution, I urge their immediate release on humanitarian grounds. They have been detained for 10 months now and we hope that these health workers may be freed the soonest possible time so that they can also spend the holidays with their loved ones,” she added.

Meanwhile, in observance of the International Human Rights Day, Legarda said that her visit to Camp Bagong Diwa on Thursday is also part of her duty as Chair of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations to see if the country is complying with its international obligations by checking if authorities are adhering to the provisions of the Convention Against Torture (CAT) and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment.

The CAT was adopted by the United Nations in 1984. On June 1986, the Philippines ratified the CAT, which obligates signatories to the Convention to submit regular reports on how the rights are being implemented.

Furthermore, under the Optional Protocol to the Convention (OPCAT), which entered into force in June 2006, States parties are required to establish an independent national preventive mechanism that would regularly monitor all places of detention, inspect its facilities, and recommend solutions to prevent torture and other ill-treatment.

“We wanted to ensure that the rights of these health workers, and all other detainees, are not being curtailed while they are in jail. Authorities must respect human rights not only because it is stated under our Constitution but also because we must comply with our international obligations,” Legarda stressed.
(Office of Senator Loren Legarda/PIA-Caraga)


RH supporters: Sen. Sotto blundered - no contraceptive budget was removed 

In a meeting held yesterday, reproductive health (RH) supporters clarified that Senator Tito Sotto’s pronouncements that the Senate removed 800M earmarked for contraceptives from the Department of Health (DOH)’s budget are false.  

According to Elizabeth Angsioco, National Chairperson of the Democratic Socialist Women of the Philippines (DSWP), ‘The original budget of 400M for family planning which was approved by the House of Representatives (HOR) as part of the PhP931,349,000 line item for Family Health and Family Planning’ is intact and was not removed by the Senate. What happened was the HOR asked the DOH for a computation of what it might need for next year to address the unmet need for family planning (FP) of married poor women of reproductive age. The DOH accordingly responded with a computation amounting to PhP880,844,816.63 which was also sent to the Senate as a possible additional budget but was disapproved. This computation became Sen. Sotto’s basis for his remarks. Thus, in actual terms, the Senate did not remove anything from what was approved by the HOR but did not put in any additional budget. Sec. Ona clarified this in a letter dated 6 December 2010 addressed to Sen. Drilon.’ 

‘Sen. Sotto should be corrected. His statements are misleading bordering on the irresponsible. The good Senator should have studied the budget first before making pronouncements. In this case, nakuryente sya. Following this, we wonder what the truth is in relation with his pronouncement that the Senate would add to State Universities and Colleges (USCs) what they removed from DOH. If they did not really remove anything, where will the additional SUC budget come from? Those closely watching SUC budget should not let up,’ Angsioco added.

‘Moreover, we ask Sen. Sotto to explain his opposition to contraceptives. His statements are all generalities. We want to understand where he is coming from. He is a public servant and family planning commodities are necessary so people, especially the poor are able to plan their families. Even the President acknowledges this. Sotto’s position is a big disappointment as it completely disregards women's welfare. He is being anti-women and anti-poor,’ expressed Angsioco. 

Angsioco added, “our group composed of the Democratic Socialist Women of the Philippines (DSWP), Philippine Legislators’ Committee on Population and Development Foundation, Inc. (PLCPD), The Forum for Family Planning and Development (The FORUM), Family Planning Organization of the Philippines (FPOP), and Woman Health Philippines challenges Sen. Sotto’s strong opposition against allocating budget for family planning services and commodities. According to the group, it is the government’s responsibility to help those who are poor not just entertain them,” Angsioco concluded. (Vigie Benosa-Llorin, Philippine Legislators' Committee on Population and Development/PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Thursday, Dec. 9, 2010

Cebuano news: Learning center sa Magallanes tukuron

Butuan City - Mapasalamaton ang mga opisyales ug katawhan sa lungsod sa Magallanes tungod kay tukuron na ang Manpower Human Resource Development Learning Center sa lugar.

Si gobernador Erle John M. Amante gihatagan ug pagtugot pagbalhin ngadto sa panudlanan sa Magallanes sa kantidad nga duha ka gatos ka libo ka pesos (P200,000.00) alang sa nahisgutan nga proyekto nga ipahimutang sa Magallanes Central Elementary School.

Kini nga proyekto pagapundohan ubos sa buhatan sa Gobernador nga gihatagan ug daling pagtagad tungod sa kamahinungdanon niini sa mga estudyante.

Tungod ka yang mga local nga opisyales sa Magallanes adunay kasibot sa paghatag ug mga kalamboan sa katawhan sa maong lungsod, kini nagapahigayon nga proyekto.

Gipasar kini nga resolusyon atol sa ika-siyam nga sesyon regular sa Sanguniang Panlalawigan sa pagpangama ni Bise Gobernador Enrico R. Corvera. (CE Pardillo, AGNOR Buletin/PIA-Caraga)


Cebuano news: Kampanya batok STI/HIV/AIDS gihingusgan

Butuan City - Makapahikurat ang balita nga sa sulod lamang sa usa ka bulan (December 2009) aduna nay 126 nga kaso sa HIV nga maoy pinakataas sulod sa 25 ka tuig.

Ang DOH National Epidemiology Center nag-pahimangno nga kung dili masugid ang pagpahibalo ug pag-edukar sa katawhang Pilipinhon bahin sa HIV/AIDS, ang epidemya mahitabo sa kalit lamang ug maghimong dakung kadaut sa atong ekonomiya.

Posibleng mahitabo kanato ang nahitabo sa Zimbawe kaniadto nga halos kada-adlaw naglubong sila ug patay, bata man o tigulang tungod sa sakit nga AIDS. Bisan kinsa matakdan.

Gipanghingusgan karon sa DOH ug sa Probinsyal Health Office sa Agusan del Norte sa pagpanguna ni Dr. Elizabeth N. Campado, ang kampanya batok sa STI/HIV/ AIDS inabagan sa mga Rural Health Units sa 10 ka lungsod ug sa Cabadbaran City.

Usa na niini ang lungsod sa Buenavista nga gipangunahan usab ni Dr. Rameses Casals, ang lungsod sa Tubay nga giduyugan ni Dr. Susan Mondejar-Jomoc u gang Cabadbaran City kauban ni Dr. Zaldy Secote, ug sa ilang mga medical staff nga suportado sa ilang mga mayor ug mga barangay officials.

Sa atong mga lungsod, pipila na ka mga symposiums ang nahipatigayon alang sa mga grupo sa mga estudyante, kababayenhan, sanguniang kabataan, ug mga tag-iya sa entertainment business ug sa mga trabahante niini. Ug karon nga tuig gisugdan na usab ang paglibot sa mga high schools alang sa symposium bahin sa HIV/AIDS.

Ginapatigayon usab ang provincewide essay writing contest alang sa mga 3rd ug 4th year high school students ug gawas sa salapi nga premyo, aduna usab ipanghatag nga tarpaulins sa mga participating schools niadtong mga magtutudlo ug mga estudyante nga nagpadayag sa ilang kahibalo ug suporta. Isip usab kini pagtimaan sa World Aids Day karong December 1.

Ang sexually Transmitted Infections mao ang sakit sa pakighilawas or sex. Kauban niini mao ang gonorrhea, syphilis, trichomoniasis, Chlamydia, genital warts, HIV or Human Immuno-deficiency Virus (nga kagaw sa AIDS) hepatitis B, pediculosis pubis, scabies ug genital herpes.

Ang AIDS or Aquired Immune Defieciency Syndrome mao ang cancer stage sa HIV. Dili lamang sa unprotected sexual intercourse makuha ang STI/HIV/AIDS, apan apil na niini ang direct blood contact (lakip na ang blood transfusion, organ transplantation ug pagamit ug unsterilized needles), u gang mother to child transmission (matag pregnancy, delivery ug breastfeeding).

Aron kita mahalikay sa sakit, ania ang gitawag nga ABCDE of prevention:

A- Abstinence. Say no to sex.
B- Be faithful to one uninfected partner. Be prayerful
C- Consult the doctor immediately together with your partner.
D- Don’t use or share contaminated or unsterile needles or sharps.
E- Education. Share STI/HIV/AIDS information with your family and friends.

Pakisayod, pag-andam, pagbantay aron sa STI/HIV/AIDS ikaw malikay. (AGNOR Buletin/PIA-Caraga)


POLICE REPORTS
By PO3 Philip Amer Posas Mazo


Flagged down by CTs

A member of the Sangunian Bayan of Lapaz Municipality, Agusan del Sur was allegedly flagged down by more or less thirty (30) armed men believed to be members of the New Peoples Army Guerilla Front 88 NCMRC led by an unidentified Communist Team Leader who conducted a check point along the Secondary National Highway particular at KM 9 of Desamparados, Talacogon, Agusan del Sur.  

SB Allan O Lim while onboard his Pick Up Hilux service vehicle was halted by the said group at the abovementioned place on December 7, 2010 around 9:3O PM and carted his licensed firearms: one (1) unit caliber .45 pistol, one (1) unit Super .38 and one (1) unit M16 Bush Master Armalite Rifle. The armed group immediately withdrew heading towards Brgy Zillovia of Talacogon, Agusan del Sur using the pick up Hilux of the victim. Case still under further investigation. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Accomplishments on illegal drugs

The AIDSOTF personnel of BCPO led by PINSP RODOLFO C LEDESMA, Chief Intel Section of BCPS 1 under the close supervision of PSUPT JOSEPH B BOQUERIN, Station Commander conducted anti-Illegal Drug operations thru the implementation of Search Warrant Nr 1112-2010 on December 7, 2010, to the following residences to wit:

1. Residence of Mr Andy Esguera y Salao alias “Tambok”, 27 YO, single of P-6 Brgy San Ignacio, Butuan City. Seized from his residence were the following: a) two (2) empty sachet with traces of illegal drugs,,, b) fourteen (14) pcs of empty sachet,,, c) crumpled aluminum foils, d) cash amounting to Php 663.OO and d) other drug paraphernalia. The search was conducted around 9:3O PM by virtue of Search Warrant Nr 1112-2010

2. Residence of Kelvin Kionesala y Baraobia, 21 YO, single of P-6 Brgy San Ignacio, Butuan City. Seized from his residence were the following: a) five (5) pcs sliced aluminum foil, b) one (1) pc improvised totter, c) two (2) pcs improvised needle, and d) other drug paraphernalia. The search was conducted around 1O:OO PM by virtue of Search Warrant Nr 1111-2010

Suspects were apprehended & turned-over to the Investigation Section of BCPS 1 while appropriate charges were being prepared for filing in court in inquest proceedings. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)  

Accomplishments on illegal gambling

On December 7, 2010 around 8:OO PM at San Jose St beside Maternity Hospital of Brgy Urduja, Butuan City, elements of Vice Control Section, BCPS 1 led by SPO4 Demetrio C Castolo Jr under the supervision of PSUPT JOSEPH B BOQUERIN, Station Commander BCPS 1 conducted operations against illegal gambling which resulted to the apprehension of Danilo Gomez y Flores, 31 YO, married & a resident of Purok-Sigla, Brgy Pagatpatan, Butuan City.  

Confiscated from his possession were the following: a) one (1) pc Swertres Tally sheet, b) one (1) unit blue Honda XRM single motorcycle without plate number, and c) Bet money amounting to Php 1,467.OO

Suspect & seized items were brought to Butuan City Police Station 1 for the filing of appropriate charges in court. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Report on loose firearms

PNP members of Trento MPS led by PO1 Norman M Orit arrested a man carrying an undocumented home made caliber .45 pistol at P-5 Brgy Pulang Lupa, Trento, Agusan del Sur. The suspect identified as Jessie Villena Comendador, 37 YO, married, is a caretaker of SMART Cell Site repeater & a resident of P-14, Brgy Pulang Lupa, Trento, Agusan del Sur. The caliber .45 pistol with serial number 479585 with one (1) magazine was seized in the possession of the suspect and unable to present any legal document. 

The firearm is now under the custody of Trento MPS while a case for Violation of RA 8294 (Illegal Possession of Firearms) was already filed at the Provincial Prosecutor’s Office, Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur under IS nr 13-03-INQ-10L-069 and docketed under Criminal Case nr 7292. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)


DILG Family to participate in the conduct of Barangay Assembly Day

BUTUAN CITY - Pursuant to Proclamation No. 74 dated November 24, 2010 issued by His excellency Pesident Benigno S. Aquino III directing the conduct of a nationwide Barangay Assembly Day on December 11, 2010, all members of the DILG Family are directed to attend the Barangay Assembly day. Their attendance will serve as a manifestation of the solidarity of the Department’s personnel in pushing for institutionalization of the regular conduct of barangay assembly day and witness the meaningful avowal of commitments towards good governance by the new sets of barangay officials in their respective barangays. 

The DILG Heads of Offices in the Local Government and Interior Sectors and the Local Government Academy are likewise directed to conduct information campaign like hanging of streamers in conspicuous areas which will raise public awareness on the importance of the activity.  

Among the suggested activities to be undertaken include : presentation of the current state of development and financial status of the barangay ; consultations/discussions on the Proposed Plan and Programs to be implemented by the new brgy. officials in their terms, discussions on promoting brgy good governance and the recitation of the « Panunumpa Para sa Mabuting Pamamahala Tungo sa Tuwid na Landas by the new set of brgy. Officials. (Mary Christine Anthonette M. Salise, DILG-13/PIA-Caraga)


DILG-13 chief is new ACE Prexy

BUTUAN CITY - Atty. Rene K. Burdeos, Regional Director of DILG XIII, was hailed as the newly elected President of the Association of Caraga Executives during its recently held Assembly/Elections cum Christmas Party in Dottie’s Place last December 1, 2010.  

RD Burdeos succeeded the leadership of Director Joecel F. Obenza, DBM Regional Director, after serving the Association as President for a term of two years. RD Burdeos also served as Treasurer during the term of Director Obenza.  

Association of Caraga Executives (ACE) is an organization of heads of offices from different government agencies in Region XIII which is aimed at professionalizing the corps of CESOs and eligibles. ACE members not only provide financial assistance through the members’ contributions to civic groups’ programs but also undertake outreach programs for the less privileged sector of the society.

Other new set of officers that will serve for a two-year are: ACE Vice President-COMELEC RD Francisco G. Pobe, ACE Secretary-RTWPB Board Secretary Earl dela Victoria, ACE Treasurer-DBM Asst. Regional Director Helen Dumayas, ACE Auditor-DBP Manager Sisinio Narisma, ACE Public Information Officer-PIA RD Abner Caga.  

Newly elected board members are: DOST-Caraga Regional Director Lyndo Villacorta, DAR-Caraga Regional Director Faisar Mambuay, TESDA RD Florencio Sunico, DepEd Schools Division Superintendent Cruzita ZM. Taala.  

RD Burdeos in his acceptance speech as new ACE President vowed to institutionalize the association’s Constitution and By-laws and continue to provide services to different sectors in this region.
(Mary Christine Anthonette M. Salise, DILG-13/PIA-Caraga)
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PNP-SdN reports low crime incidents

Surigao del Norte (December 9) – The Philippine National Police – Surigao del Norte Police Provincial Office (PNP-SDN PPO) reported a lower rate of crime incidents in the fourth quarter of this year as compared to the same period last year.

In a Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) meeting held Wednesday, Dec. 8, Deputy Director P/Supt. Jonathan Trujillo said the decrease in crime volume for the period can be attributed on their relentless campaign from all forms of illegal and unlawful activities throughout the province.

Trujillo, who represented the newly installed police provincial director Sr/Supt. Emmanuel Talento said the non-index crimes (violations of R.A 9165, PD 1602, PD 1866 and other special laws) posted184 incidents, a decrease of 179 from 363 incidents last year while the index crimes (homicide, physical injury, rape, robbery and theft) registered 330 incidents from the 229 cases last year.

Trujillo also reported a significant increase of crime solution efficiency of 2010 compared to previous year. “This result of our 24/7 checkpoints in all the crime-prone areas in the province.” (PIA-Surigao del Norte) 


TUCP holds Decent Work through Global Jobs, Social Protection Floor workshop 

Surigao City (December 9) - The Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) and the Workers Development Foundation Inc. (WDFI) with assistance from the International Trade Union Confederation-Asia Pacific (ITUC-AP) through the ITUC-AP Youth Committee will hold a workshop on “Advancing Decent Work through the Global Jobs Pact and the Social Protection Floor” on Dec. 11-12, 2010 at Eurotel North Edsa, Quezon City.
 
Former Senator and TUCP Gen. Sec. Dr. Ernesto Herrera, in a written statement, said the two-day program is part of a series of capacity building programs designed for TUCP affiliates’ youth officers/members and partners’ youth advocates to provide them with information on national, regional and international developments in the field of labor including the country’s progress and the roles of unions in achieving the goals of decent work through green jobs, the Global Jobs Pact and the Social Protection Floor, among others.
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Specifically, the conference aims to provide youth officers/members and advocates with global and national perspectives on Decent Work; review the implementation of the Philippine Decent Work Common Agenda; identify trade union actions to accelerate achievement of Decent Work vis-Γ -vis Medium Development Goals 1B: Achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all, including women and young people, including monitoring and research tools; and design actions plans to operationalize unions’ contributions in realizing the goals of decent work.
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Some 25 youth officers/members and youth advocates from TUCP’s affiliates and partners throughout the country are expected to attend this activity. (PIA-Surigao del Norte)


Project Escuelas helps 1,720 kids in Basilan & Maguindanao

Farida Hadjali, 8, Grade I student at Magsaysay Elementary School in Lamitan, Basilan was elated to have received recently her school bag containing assorted school supplies. She was among the 1,720 students in Basilan and Maguindanao being assisted by Project Escuelas.
School children in Basilan and Maguindanao have endured difficult situations brought by poverty and recurring conflict just to go to school. At the height of the Abu Sayyaf’s siege of Lamitan years back, Magsaysay Elementary School and other schools in the poblacion were closed down, forcing traumatized students to stay at home. Maguindanao’s protracted violence also marginalized school kids, some dropping out of school in the process.

Implemented by the Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP), Project Escuelas seeks to give Farida and the other kids, opportunities to improve academic performance by providing them educational support, learning facilities and textbooks among others.

In Basilan, three schools have received assistance from Project Escuelas. These are Mabini Elementary School, B. Aldana Central Elementary School and Magsaysay Elementary School all in Lamitan. Three other public schools in Maguindanao were assisted by Project Escuelas namely: Katil Elementary School, Malala Elementary School and Datu Saililla Elementary School. (Danny Escabarte, PBSP-MRO/PIA-Caraga) 

PIA News Service - Wednesday, Dec. 8, 2010

Children’s code of Buenavista approved

Butuan City - By virtue of Sanguniang Resolution No. 094-2010, the Sanguniang Panlalawigan recently approved Municipal Ordinance No. 8 known as the Children’s Code of Buenavista.

Authored by Hon. Eduardo P. Makiling, the code ensures the protection of children against all forms of abuse and exploitation; advocate for children’s rights and promote their welfare and development; ensures that the children’s rights are given priority attention both in the government and civil society; and improved the quality of life of the Buenavistahonon’s children enabling them to fully develop their potentials and participate in community undertakings and nation building.

Likewise, it recognizes the importance of effectively promoting, fully enhancing and institutionalizing the survival, development, participation and protection of the rights of the children.

Board member Rodolfo A. Pitogo recommended for the approval of the ordinance. (BF Ceballos, AGNOR Buletin/PIA-Caraga)


Cebuano News: HLURB office alang Caraga hayan mabalik pag-usab

Butuan City - Kun ma-aprobahan, mabutangan na pagbalik ug housing and land Use Regulatory Board (HLURB) field office dinhe sa syudad alang sa mga kliyente sa tibook Caraga region.

Kini ang gilaumang mahitabo sa usa ka resolusyon nga naghangyo sa president sa HLURB sa Manila central office nga butangan nila pag-usab ug ilang field office dinhe sa syudad sa Butuan aron dali ra nilang matubag ang housing needs sa ilang mga kliyente.

Kun mahinumduman, aduna nay regional office sa HLURB dinhi sa syudad kaniadtong 1992.

Apan tungod sa pag-implementar sa ilang rationalization plan, gisirad-an na nila ang ilang mga field offices sa rehiyong Caraga ug rehiyon 12 ug giusa na lamang kauban ang Cagayan de Oro City.

Tungod sa kadaghan na sa ilang atimanong kliyente, nga naglangkob sa 3 ka rehiyon, nahimong mas dogay na noon ang panahon sa pag-proseso sa mga dokumento.

Matod pa ni Bokal Aquino W. Gambe, nga nangusog sa maong hangyo, nakahatag kini’g kahasol ug dugang gasto sa mga kliyente dinhi sa Caraga tungod sa kalayo sa ilang buhatan labi na ang pagbalik-balik ngadto sa Cagayan aron pag-follow-up sa ilang papeles.

Gituohan nga ang pagbutang ug kaugalingong buhatan dinhi sa Caraga region, mao ray sulosyon atua na gipadala sa Manila central office alang sa ilang hinanaling pagtubag. (JV Demain, AGNOR Buletin/PIA-Caraga)

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POLICE REPORTS
By PO2 Darlin Cabalinan-Migullas


Magallanes, AdN cops arrest wanted person 

A certain Emilito Estrella, 37 years old, married and a resident of P-3, Brgy. Sto. Rosario, Magallanes, Agusan del Norte was arrested by elements of Magallanes MPS led by Police Inspector Joannes Papas Castro, Chief of Police, around 3:20 in the afternoon of December 6, 2010 at the abovementioned place. Said person has a Warrant of Arrest issued by Hon. Francisco Maclang of RTC, Branch 3, Hall of Justice, Libertad, Butuan City, charged for the crime of Murder docketed under criminal number case number 14291 with no recommended bail bond. Arrested person is now detained at Magallanes MPS for proper disposition.

Meanwhile, elements of Gigaquit MPS led Police Inspector Noel dela Cruz Guarin, Chief of Police arrested a certain Jocelyn Lampad Placeros, 39 years old, married and a certain Cristita Mira Ellorico, 52 years old, married, both residents of P-2, Brgy. Cambuayon, Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte on December 6, 2010, around 4:00 O’clock in the afternoon at the abovementioned place. Said persons were arrested by virtue of Warrant of Arrest issued by Hon. Victor Canoy, Presiding Judge, RTC 10th Judicial Region, Branch 29, Surigao City, charged for Estafa docketed under criminal case number 9006 with recommended bail bond of P16,000.00. Arrested persons are now under the custody of Gigaquit MPS for proper disposition. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Report on shooting incident

On December 6, 2010, around 5:30 in the afternoon, a certain Rolando Sanchez Sinday, 49 years old, married, tree marker of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) was shot to death by two (2) unidentified suspects, riding in tandem on an XRM Honda motorcycle, color black without plate number at Sitio Panlamaan, Brgy. Anibongan, Lianga, Surigao del Sur. Investigation disclosed that the said victim was on his way to Lianga from Barobo, all of Surigao del Sur, on board his Honda XRM single motorcycle, color red with plate number KE 7690 and upon reaching at the said place, said suspects wearing black sweatshirt with “KARANCHO’ markings suddenly shot said victim. 

Victim sustained multiple gunshot wounds at the different parts of his body, which resulted to his instantaneous death. Responding elements of Lianga MPS recovered three (3) shells of caliber 45 pistol from the crime scene. Remains of the victim was brought to Lianga District Hospital for post mortem examination. Elements of Lianga MPS are still conducting follow-up investigation for possible identification and apprehension of the suspects. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Report on illegal drugs

One Agapito Diaz Segubre, 17 years old, single and a resident of P-2B Hinipaan, Brgy. Poblacion, Lingig, Surigao del Sur was apprehended by elements of Lingig MPS led by PO3 Oxecio Abarca, around 4:30 in the afternoon of December 6, 2010 at the Park of the said municipality, for violation of R.A. 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002). Confiscated from his possession were 1.2263 grams of dried marijuana leaves, three (3) pieces rolled paper and one (1) piece disposable lighter. Initial investigation disclosed that said dried marijuana leaves were allegedly taken from a certain Grace Macaylas of legal age, married and a resident of P-2A San Francisco, Brgy. Poblacion, Lingig, Surigao del Sur. Apprehended suspect was referred to Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office of said place while confiscated items are now under the custody of Lingig MPS for proper disposition.
(PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Progress report (Recovery of two dead bodies)

Criminal charges for robbery with homicide has been filed against Roxan Baron y Dumalagan a.k.a. “Dodong” 19 years old, single, jobless and a resident of P-2, Brgy. Timamana, Tubod, Surigao del Norte at Surigao del Norte Provincial Prosecutors Office docketed under IS number XIII-06-INQ-10I-266. Furthermore, at around 3:30 in the afternoon of December 6, 2010, said information of the case for robbery with homicide against the accused was filed by Provincial Prosecutor Jesse Rey M. Silvosa to the Office of the Executive Judge Evangeline Yuipco Bayana, RTC, Branch 32, Provincial capitol Compound, Surigao city docketed under criminal case number 9031. 

Likewise, a commitment order for the accused was subsequently issued for his detention at Surigao del Norte District Jail, wherein said accused was properly turned-over thereat around 5:30 in the afternoon of same date. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)


New Dinagat Islands police provincial chief installed  

Camp Rafael C Rodriguez, Libertad, Butuan City - CARAGA Police Director PCSUPT REYNALDO SERRANO RAFAL, Ph.D, CEO VI personally graced the turn-over ceremony for the new Police Provincial Director in Dinagat Islands on December 6, 2010. The newly installed PSSUPT INOCENTES JUNTILLA CAPUNO assumed office replacing PSSUPT RODOLFO MARMOL DASMARIΓ‘AS.  

The ceremony held at the News Youth Organization Office, San Jose, Dinagat Islands which was attended by Provincial Administrator Benglen Buray Ecleo representing the Guest of Honor and Speaker.  

Also attended the activities were PSUPT EUGENIO B PAGUIRIGAN, Acting Chief, RPHRDD; Chiefs of Police in Dinagat Islands PPO and other guests. RD RAFAL is optimistic that the policemen in the region can surely do the sworn tasks and prove its competence, time and again despite the challenges, through the CPNP’s Eight (8) Foundation Initiatives and Operational Imperatives which are: Doing and Training in the Basics; Procurement Review; Equipage; Police Community Partnership; Doctrine Development; Reward and Punishment; Human Rights and Mentoring Leadership. He emphasized that the priority actions should start with Good Manners and Right Performance of Duty. He firmly believed that the Eight Policing Foundation Priorities identified can be understood, can be implemented and can be put in motion immediately. The priority actions are all intended to push the reform agenda and strengthen the police service in real-time; meant to strengthen the institution and help to withstand the challenges confronting the PNP.

After the turn-over ceremony, PCSUPT REYNALDO RAFAL, Ph. D. CEO VI conducted conference with all unit commanders under Dinagat Islands PPO to make sure that every policeman commits himself completely to the Filipino people through maintaining peace in the streets, in the darkest alleys and in the community as a whole, clarifying that the police force is anywhere and everywhere, adding that the police stations shall be the frontline forces in accomplishing the PNPs mission of enforcing the law, preventing and control crimes, maintaining peace and order, and ensuring public safety in their respective area of responsibility. 

He also encouraged the public to take an active part in supporting the police and made sure to get rid of misfits and undesirable members of the police force in the region. (PCI Nelly Tabornal Villagarcia, PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)


Legarda seeks inquiry into concerns of Nurses and their profession

Senator Loren Legarda has sought an inquiry into urgent concerns of Filipino nurses and the nursing profession, noting that the problems faced by the country’s health professionals reflect a failure on the part of government to promote the people’s right to health.

Through Senate Resolution No. 304, Legarda urged the Senate Committee on Health and Demography to conduct an investigation on the serious concerns of the country’s nursing sector with the end in view of protecting the rights of nurses and their profession.

“Our nurses are hindered from efficiently performing their duties as primary health care providers. One of the most serious concerns is the anomaly in the hiring of nurses who, instead of getting remuneration for their work, have to pay in exchange for work certification and training experience,” Legarda said.

The Senator also voiced concern on the lack of plantilla positions for nurses in government hospitals; contractualization of nurses; lack of supervision over the condition of Filipino nurses working abroad resulting to delayed assistance; and the non-implementation of decent wage and due benefits according to law. 
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Legarda explained that under the Nursing Law of 2002 (RA 9173) and the Magna Carta of Public Health Workers (RA 7305), the entry salary of a nurse in the government should be at Salary Grade 15 or about Php25,000, and that they are entitled to benefits such as hazard pay, subsistence allowance and night shift differential. 

She also explained that the lack of budget for the health sector affects the delivery of health services especially for the very poor and those in far-flung communities.

“The government has to take immediate, concrete steps to resolve these problems that affect our health workers so that they can efficiently fulfill their duties without having to worry about how to make ends meet,” Legarda said. 

“Unless we provide the adequate protection to our nurses, we cannot enforce the guarantees expressed in the 1987 Constitution to promote the people’s right to health, much less achieve the Millennium Development Goals, to which we have committed,” she concluded. (Office of Senator Loren Legarda/PIA-Caraga)

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Surigao Norte SK Federation Election set on December 10

By Susil D. Ragas

Surigao City (December 7) - The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) in consultation and agreement with the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) National Federation and the National Youth Commission (NYC) will conduct an election of officers for the Provincial SK Federation on December 10, 2010 at exactly 8:00am at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Session Hall, Capitol Road this city.

According to DILG Provincial Director Domingo E. Bulabog the election of president, vice president and other officers is in compliance with the Local Government Code of 1991, Chapter 9 Book III, which provides for the organization of the Federation of Sangguniang Kabataan at the municipal, city, provincial and national levels and under Administrative Order No. 267 dated February 18, 1992 which delegates the exercise of general supervision of the President over the local government units to the Secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).

Prior to the election, an orientation/briefing on the SK organizational structure, functions and responsibilities of municipal, city provincial and national officers will also be conducted on the same date. (PIA-Surigao del Norte)

PIA News Service - Tuesday, Dec. 7, 2010

AgSur PPOC condemns terroristic act of LTG

By: David M. Suyao

The Agusan del Sur Peace and Order Council officially condemns the terroristic act of the Local Terrorists Group (LTG) in Agusan del Sur for the series of unconventional and terroristic act inflected to the non-combatant military personnel and killing innocent civilians.

In a resolution passed recently by the PPOC attested by Vice Gov. Santiago Cane Jr. and duly approved by Gov. Adolph Edward G. Plaza, the PPOC specifically pinpointed the gruesome killing of five Civil Relations Officers of the Philippine Army who have just concluded conducting pulong-pulong in Barangay La Fotuna, and killing one innocent child who was at that time in an errand.

In a statement released by 26th Infantry Batallion Commander Lt. Col. Neil Richard Patricio, he said the area surrounding Barangay La Fortuna are known to be rebel infested and are dependent of their consumption out of the “revolutionary tax” they are collecting from the poor local residents.

“The main reason why these local communist terrorists harass the army is because their atrocities are contained with the presence of our forces. We are there to secure the area and maintain peace and order in order that economic activities will flourish,” Col. Patricio said.

It can be recalled that series of unconventional and terroristic attacks were inflected by the LTG in Agusan del Sur and some part of Caraga Region, and one concrete example was the ambush of the evaluating team of the army in Lianga, Surigao del Sur some months ago using land mines and killing non-combatant members of the army and some civilians. 

Because of these atrocities done by the LTG, another resolution was passed by the Agusan del Sur PPOC requesting Mr. Nilo Manpatillan to establish a good relationship between the tribal leaders and the Armed Forces of the Philippines stationed in Agusan del Sur in fighting terroristic acts of the LTG with the support of other agencies whose mandate is the preservation of peace and order in the province. (PIA-Agusan del Sur)


OWWA Caraga to hold OFW Family Day in Surigao

Surigao City (December 7) - The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA-Caraga) is set to hold an Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) “Family Day 2010” on December 11, 2010 at the new provincial gymnasium this city.

OWWA-13 OIC Director Marietta Lumawag said the event will pay tribute and celebrate the worthy contributions of our modern day heroes -- the OFWs and their families, “for keeping the country’s economy afloat.”

Some 2,000 OFWs along with their family members coming from the different municipalities all over the region are expected to participate in the activity.

“We have a number of activities prepared for them and these include raffle draw, games, fun & entertainment, production numbers, and Christmas carol contest for OFWs and their familes. They will definitely enjoy,” Lumawag said. 

Lumawag also said that OWWA will award the outstanding OFW organizations and social partners and the “OWWAish Ko Lang” OFW Family beneficiaries. The said award according to Lumawag will be given to OFWs who decided to work abroad for a certain dream or wish for his family, but was forced to return home without finishing their contracts because of misfortune or uncontrollable circumstances. “The winners for OWWAish Ko Lang will be given a P10,000 cash prize as a gift from OWWA,” she added.

A Medical-Dental mission will also be offered to the OFW participants and their families in partnership with DOH, Red Cross, PCSO, Philippine Army and the Office of Sen. Many Villar.

Meantime, Dir. Lumawag revealed that with their strong partnership with the local government units (LGUs), a MOA signing with the LGUs and the Congressional Districts on the establishment of the OFW Help Desk will also be held on the same day.

Lumawag also announced that POEA will conduct a mini-jobs fair with 5 recruitment agencies already confirmed to participate. 

The OFW Family Day, which is an annual activity of the agency, is OWWA's way of thanking OFWs and aims to highlight the sacrifices of the OFWs and their families, especially, those who are displaced and those who bear the social cost of migration. 

This year, Globe Telecoms, BPI Pinoy and Banco de Oro are the OWWA's major private partners. (FEA/PIA-Surigao del Norte)


Caraga registers add’l 8K households for 4P’s

BUTUAN CITY – An additional 8,555 potential households were registered in DSWD Caraga for its Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program or 4P’s.

DSWD Regional Information Officer Leah T. Quintana disclosed that these are part of the expansion of 4P’s in set 3-D areas to accommodate more household beneficiaries.

The newly registered 4P’s beneficiaries are from the municipalities of Tubay in Agusan del Norte, San Agustin, Tago and Cortes in Surigao del Sur, Alegria and Sta. Monica in Surigao del Norte and San Jose in the Province of Dinagat Islands.

At present, the total number of 4P’s beneficiaries in Caraga region already reached 86,726 who already received their monthly cash grants.

The Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) is a poverty reduction and social development strategy of the national government that provides conditional cash grants to extremely poor households to improve their health, nutrition and education needs particularly of children aged 0-14 with the objective of providing social assistance and social development. (Jocelyn E. Morano, Radyo ng Bayan Butuan/PIA-Caraga)


DepEd gearing up for 2011 NSPC

BUTUAN CITY – Preparations are underway for the holding of the National Schools Press Conference to be hosted by Butuan City in 2011.

The Department of Education Caraga Region recently held a two-day conference for the Technical Working Group to ensure success of the event where students from different regions in the country will participate in the country’s biggest campus journalism competition.

Dep-Ed Caraga Information Officer Isidro Biol said the meeting was attended by representatives from the Bureau of Elementary Education and Bureau of Secondary Education.

Discussions were focused on the different activities on the scheduled NSPC, venue of the contest, board and lodging of evaluators, judges, facilitators and the participants, finances among others.

Dep Ed Officials likewise made an ocular inspection to schools in Butuan City for possible billeting quarters.

Part of the preparation according to DepEd Caraga Information Officer Biol is the on going negotiation with the FSUU Basic Education Campus in Libertad as the contest venue.

The organizers are expecting more than 4,000 delegates from 17 regions who will be joining the 2011 National Schools Press Conference in Butuan City that would converge in friendly competition and exercise the freedom of expression.

The date for the said event will be in February 2011 with the theme: “Freedom of Expression: Rights and Responsibility.”

Next month, a coordination meeting will be held between the provincial governments of Butuan and Agusan del Norte, the PNP, Department of Tourism and other regional government agencies. (Jocelyn E. Morano, Radyo ng Bayan Butuan/PIA-Caraga)


POLICE REPORTS
By PO3 Arturo Suganob Campania


Malimono, SdN cops arrest wanted person 

One Arnulfo Mangaring y Quinto, 54 yrs old, married, farmer and res of said place was arrested by PNP elements of Malimono MPS led by PINSP JOEL P LAGTO by virtue of WOA issued by Hon Judge Rolando T Literato of 1st MCTC, Malimono/San Francisco, Surigao del Norte, dated December 2, 2010, docketed under CC Nr 2073 for violation of RA 8048 (The coconut preservation Act of 1995) with recommended bailbond amounting to Php 12,000.00. 

Apprehension took place at Brgy Bunsayan, Malimono, Surigao del Norte on December 5, 2010 at 7:00 am. Subject person now deatined at Malimono MPS for proper disposition. 

One Balvoncent Tanduyan y Colon, 22 yrs old, single and res of P-1, Conception, Cabadbaran City was apprehended by PNP elements of 133rd Regional Public Safety Company led by PINSP BRENT H LICCUD, under the supervision of PSUPT FRANCISCO DUNGO, Batallion Commenader of Regional Public Safety Battalion (RPSB). 

Apprehension took place at P-1, Conception, Cabadbaran City on December 6, 2010 at 6:40 am by virtue of WOA docketed under CC nr 10905 and 0906 for the crime of 2 counts direct assault with recommended bailbond amounting to Php 6,000.00 each, issued by Hon Judge Nemesio S CaΓ±ete of 4th MCTC Cabadbaran-RTR dated July 21, 2010. Subject person was brought to 133rd Public Safety Company headquarters for proper disposition. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Report on illegal gambling 

PNP elements of Butuan City Police Station 1 led by SPO4 Demetrio C Castolo Jr in coordination with Butuan City Police Station 2 under PSINSP ALEX A CELIZ executed the search warrant with number 113-2010, dated December 5, 2010, issued by Hon Judge Eduardo S Casals of RTC Branch 1, Libertad, Butuan City against one Annabel Pejoles y Recamadas, alleged swertres/lotto general coordinator, 47 yrs old, married and res of P-8, Langihan Road, Brgy Limaha, Butuan City. Seized were 59 pcs filled-up swertres tally sheets, 1 pc swertres tip, 81 pcs filled-up swertres ticket stubs, 1 pc calculator, 3 pcs ballpen and bet money amounting to Php 8,743.00. Case against subject person was already filed at City Prosecutor’s Office in an inquest proceedings under NPS docket nr XIII-01-INQ-10L-00259. Subject person signed a waiver, a detention for 15 days. 

PNP elements of Surigao City Police Station under the supervision of PCINSP CHARLIE A CABRADILLA conducted operations against illegal gambling as amended by RA 9287 (illegal numbers game locally known as swertres) on December 5, 2010 at 5:30 pm which resulted to the apprehension of one Julieto Munez Gonsaga, 76 yrs old, separated, swertres usher and a res of Brgy Lipata, Surigao City. 

Subject was actually caught soliciting bet money at the vicinity of Public Market, Surigao City. Confiscated from his possession were several illegal gambling paraphernalia and bet money amounting to Php 280.00. 

The team proceeded to Purok 6, Brgy San Juan, Surigao City and apprehended one Renelyn Peril Elizaga, 36 yrs old, married, swertres usher and res of said place. Subject was actually caught engaged in illegal gambling and confiscated from her possession were several gambling paraphernalia and bet money amounting to Php 30.00. Subject persons and confiscated items were brought to Surigao City Police Station for proper disposition. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Voluntary surrender of loose firearm 

One Victor D Buenaflor, legal age, res of Gonzales St, Surigao City surrendered two (2) units loose firearms to PSSUPT EMMANUEL M TALENTO, Provincial Director of Surigao del Norte Police Provincial Office on December 6, 2010 at 12:00 noon. Firearms surrendered were one 12 gauge shotgun with defaced serial nr and one carbine .30m1 with defaced serial number. Said firearms now deposited at supply section of Surigao del Norte PPO. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Report on suicide incident 

One Elizabeth Sagrado y Mosende, 23 yrs old, married, res of P-6, Sitio Tinago, Brgy Matabao, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte was found hanging and dead with the use of nylon string tied on her neck inside their house by her husband Ryan Sagrado y Amamio on December 6, 2010 at 1:00 am. 

Victim was rushed to Agusan del Norte Provincial Hospital but declared dead by the attending physician. PNP elements of Buenavista MPS now conducting thorough investigation of the case. Progress report to follow. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Recovery of stolen motorcycle 

PNP elements of San Francisco MPS received information about carnapping incident on December 5, 2010 at 7:30 pm that transpired at Bgry 2, San Francisco, Agusan del Sur involving one unit Honda XRM motorcycle color blue, for registration and owned by one Mailito Cabanos y Iamais, 36 yrs old, married, businessman and res of P-3, Brgy 2, San Francisco, Agusan del Sur. 

PNP elements of San Frnacisco MPS led by PO3 Warren Joy Moreno Urbistondo under the supervision of PSI JOEL A BIΓ‘AS immediately conducted operations which led to the apprehension of the suspect identified as Helyfred Arcin y Gerondio, 21 yrs old, single, gold panner and res of P-8, Sitio Sinug-ang, Bayugan 3, Rosario, Agusan del Sur after he was chased and caught by the owner at National highway, Brgy Hubang, San Francisco, Agusan del Sur. 

Suspect now detained at San Francisco MPS and subject motorcycle was turned over to the owner. Progress report to follows. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Progress report: 

A case for illegal possession of firearms now filed at Provincial Prosecutor’s Office, Libertad, Butuan City under IS Nr INQ-10K-0017 against Vergar Fernandez Umas-as, 25 YO, married & a resident of Sitio Suakay, Brgy Dona Telesfora, Tubay, Agusan del Norte. 

Subject person was arrested by PNP elements of Cabadbaran MPS led by PCI RAINIER P DIAZ, OIC for possessing a .45 caliber pistol (paltik) with serial number 432210 loaded with one (1) live ammo along the National Highway of Brgy 9, Cabadbaran, Agusan del Norte on December 2, 2010 around 12:45 dawn. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)


DENR employee shot to death by unidentified gunmen

By: Nida Grace B. Tranquilan

Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) employee, Rolando Sinday was reportedly shot by unidentified assailants at the vicinity of Sitio Panlamaan, Barangay Aniobongan, Lianga this province at around 5:30pm yesterday, December 06, 2010.

According to Police Provincial Office (PPO), the victim was riding his single motorcycle red Honda XRM going to Lianga from Barobo this province when the two gunmen riding on a black XRM without plate number followed him.

Report said, upon reaching at the vicinity of Sitio Panlamaan of Brgy Anibongan, the two gunmen wearing Black Karancho sweatshirt shot the victim three (3) times at the close range using pistol whose caliber is unknown. The victim sustained multiple gunshots wounds on the different parts of his body that resulted in his instantaneous death.

The victim was a regular employee a of DENR in CENRO Lianga as Tree Marker covering the municipality of San Agustin, Marihatag, Lianga and Barobo this province. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)

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Over 17,000 jobs awaits applicants for DOLE’s 77th Anniversary Job Fair

A ranking labor and employment official here says that there are 17, 769 job orders available, waiting for applicants during the Department of Labor and Employment’s three-day job fair dubbed as JOB EXPO “Trabahong Pamaskong Handog” to be held at Almont Inland Resort, in December 8-10.

This was announced by Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) Caraga OIC Marieta M. Bellotindos, during a press forum held recently. Attending the said forum were other ranking DOLE regional officials and of its attached line agencies led by DOLE Regional Director Ofelia B. Domingo.

Dir. Bellotindos said that her agency was tasked by RD Domingo and their department to invite agencies which can offer job openings and opportunities, both for domestic and overseas employment during the job fair. The activity is part of the month-long celebration of DOLE’s 77th Anniversary.

Bellotindos said that there were at least 16 agencies who had responded to their invitation, out of which they had gathered the aforementioned figure of available job orders. “We hope that applicants here and those coming from the neighboring places can find their opportunities and settle for employment here in the country or abroad during the job fair,” she said.

She assured the prospective applicants that all of the participating agencies are active and legitimate and the job orders offered really exists and available. The official said that they had given their invitation only to those agencies which they found out to have sufficient job orders. 

Some of the invited agencies she said are coming from Manila, Davao City and Cagayan de Oro City while six of them exists here in the region; one from Surigao while five of them are located just right here in Butuan City. According to her that the agencies invited were all active, licensed and accredited with the POEA. The available job orders, Bellotindos said, consisted of household workers, professionals and skilled workers. These included opportunities for local employment and for countries overseas such as the UAE, Qatar, KSA, Hongkong, Singapore, Kuwait, Malaysia and Taiwan. (Noel B. Najarro, The Butuan Star/PIA-Caraga)
   

DOLE inks MOA with KBP; FSUU

The Regional Office of the Department of Labor and Employment of Caraga region recently signed a memorandum of agreement between the Kapisanan Ng Mga Brodkaster Sa Pilipinas (KBP Butuan –Agusan Chapter) a foremost media organization and Father Saturnino Urios University (FSUU), a leading university of the country aiming for a wider exposure, information dissemination and participation of the forthcoming JOB EXPO “Trabahong Pamaskong Handog” activities in December 8-10, 2010 and other activities in line with the departments 77th Anniversary month-long celebration.

The activity is set at Almont Inland Resort, this city starting on Wednesday, (December 8) until Friday (December 10).

Signing in behalf of DOLE in both agreements was DOLE Acting RD Ofelia B. Domingo. Kapisanan Ng Mga Brodkaster Sa Pilipinas (Butuan City-Agusan del Norte Chapter) President Rommel Zerrudo signed in behalf of the media organization and journalists present.

The KBP is a foremost broadcast media organization composed of the owners and managers of television and broadcast outlets in the country which has its local chapters nationwide. It is also a public service organization serving the widest coverage, and has maintained its standing as a reliable and credible media organization.

The memorandum of agreement between the DOLE stipulates that local KBP commits to be partner in the dissemination of information to the public, and the media outfits under the said organization be available to cover the significant events in line with DOLE’s 77th Anniversary month-long celebration. Zerrudo during his message for the occasion pointed out that he is signing the agreement not only in behalf of the local KBP Chapter but he is including the other journalists present during the affair. He said that the DOLE’s program especially the job fair and other various labor and employment related activities of the month-long celebration were all noble and worth supporting, even for accommodation as a public service of a respective media outfit. He also thanked DOLE for trusting KBP for counting the organization as one of its partners for the occasion.

Also signing in behalf of FSUU was the institution’s President Fr. John Christian Young, who attended the occasion together with the vice-President Fr. Chito Butardo and some other university officials. DOLE explaining on why it tapped FSUU as a partner for the celebration said the university is known for its quality education not only in the area but in the other places as well, and maintained its status as one of the leading universities of the country. The institution is also known as well as an active private entity that contributes to the developmental efforts through their program and services anchored on their corporate social responsibility. The university also, according to the DOLE is known for their public services through its placement and alumni office.

Their agreement stipulates that DOLE and FSUU will also be partners on the present endeavor, to advocate the job expo to their graduates and the general public through their alumni and placement office and also to provide the cultural and intermission numbers in order to give color during the opening of the job exposition.

FSUU President Young in his message for the occasion assures DOLE of their full support of the endeavor with a hope that the present program of the department and its attached line agencies may somehow address the “mismatch” between the skills needed in the country and most of the courses offered in most institutions. He disclosed that their university even offers technological/vocational (Techvoc courses) through TESDA, in their effort to help close the said skills mismatch.

He said that they fully support the partnership as they believed that it will not only benefit the region but even the country as well. (Noel B. Najarro, The Butuan Star/PIA-Caraga)


Cebuano News: Mindanao Peace champions gi-abagan sa 5 ka peace advocates ug 2 ka grupo  

Ni Michael Imbo

Butuan City - Gipasidunggan ang GoP-UN Action for Conflict Transformation (ACT) for Peace Programme sa kontribusyon niini sa pagtukod sa Mindanao Peace Champions sa pagtukod sa “Kalinaw sa Mindanao”, dili pa lang dugay atol sa selebrasyon sa pagpasalamat sa gitawag nga Kanduli didto sa dakbayan sa Davao.

Si Former Mindanao Development Authority chair, lawyer Jesus G. Dureza kinsa nakaserbisyo isip National Programme Director sa ACT For Peace ang gipasidunggan usab nga haligi sa kalinaw ug kalamboan sa isla sa Mindanao gumikan sa pakigtakdo sa nasyunal nga kagamhanan sulod sa daghang katuigan aron makab-ot ang kalihukan sa gipangita nga kalinaw sa Mindanao. 

Apil nga gipasudunggan si Lt. Gen. Raymundo Ferrer, commanding officer sa Western Mindanao Command kinsa naila nga strong advocate to incorporate peace lens alang sa seguridad sa kumunidad.

Nasayran usab nga si Atty. Mary Ann Arnado ang secretary general sa Mindanao People’s Caucus, ang mipadayag sa nagkalain-laing grupo aron magkatigum ug magpatigayon sa diyalogo, usa sa nahimo niini ang opurtunidad sa mga bakwit nga mabatian ang ilang tingog ngadto sa local ug nasyunal nga kagamhanan. 

Samtang si Ms Irene Santiago, chair sa Mindanao Women’s Commission ang nakigbisog nga makasalmot ang kababayen-an aron matutukan ang dugang kasulbaran sa kalinaw sa Mindanao. Ug si Ms Amina Rasul-Bernardo, director of the Philippine Council on Islam and Democracy ang subling misuporta sa paglambigit sa tingog sa publiko ug pag-organisa sa kababayen-an nga Moro ug Ulama para sa tinood nga pagkab-ot sa kalinaw.

Ang organisasyon sa mantalaan sama sa Mindanao News and Information Cooperative Center kon MindaNews ang migahin sa ilang dedikasyon aron masuta ang matood nga impormasyon sa Mindanao lakip na niana ang kultura, katawhan, lugar ug ang mga nag-unang isyu nga naka-apekto sa isla.

Sa laing bahin ang Bishops-Ulama Conference mitumbok usab sa ilang katuyuan pinaagi sa panagtigom alang sa diyalogo, tumong niini nga maghisgut sa kausa nga dili maka-apekto sa relihiyon, nagkalain-laing tinoohan, pagrespeto, pagsinabtanay ug kasabotan alang sa kalinaw.  

Ang programa gi-implementar sa Mindanao Development Authority kauban ang ARMM Regional Government ug gisuportahan kini sa gobyerno sa Australia, New Zealand, Spain ug European Union.
(PIA-Caraga)
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Amora, elected Butuan Liga ng mga Punong Barangay President

BUTUAN CITY - The elections for the Liga ng mga Barangay was successfully conducted early today at Luciana Convention Center, attended by all 86 Barangay Captains in the city.

Libertad Barangay Captain Vincent Rosario acts as the Chairman of the Election Committee while the City DILG supervised the activity ensuring an orderly process.

Barangay Captain Nestor Amora of Barangay Banza who ran for Liga President garnered a total of 50 votes against his lone contender, Barangay Captain Derrick Plaza of Barangay Agusan PequeΓ±o who only got 34 votes.

For Liga Vice President, the brother of Mayor Ferdinand Amante Jr. won by a margin of 16 votes against his opponent Constancio Napana Jr. of barangay Rajah Soliman who both got the same votes as the Liga President candidates.

Ambago Barangay Captain Monico Bustilo runs unopposed as Liga Auditor who got 56 votes.

Of the total 18 barangay captains who ran as Liga Board of Directors, only 8 were chosen based on the highest votes gathered.

Limaha Barangay Captain Victor Abucejo got the highest vote (56) followed by Barangay Captain Edgardo Amigos, Eddie Baltazar of Barangay Doongan, Ma. Theresa Banate (Pagatpatan), Jeremiah CafΓ© (Baan Riverside), who all tied at 49 votes, Taguino Barangay Captain Jose NemeΓ±o Jr. had 48 votes, Obrero Barangay Captain Fernan Rivero with 46 votes and Jessie Josue with 42 votes.

Apart from the support from the majority of barangay captains, newly sworn in Liga President Amora is also enjoying the full support of the incumbent Butuan City Mayor, and the Amante’s of the province of Agusan del Norte.

The president of the Liga ng Mga Barangay sits as ex-officio member of the Sangguniang Panlungsod and will chair the Committee of Barangay Affairs.

Liga President Amora vowed to have a fair and just distribution of projects regardless of political affiliations.

On the other hand, Mayor Ferdinand Amante appealed to barangay officials to move forward in the administration’s objective of attaining progress in the city of Butuan and to avoid conflict-ridden relationships.

Mayor Amante officiated the oath taking of the newly elected officers of Liga ng mga Punong Barangay. (Jocelyn E. Morano, Radyo ng Bayan Butuan/PIA-Caraga)
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4P's beneficiaries reach 86,726 families in Caraga

TUBAY, Agusan del Norte - The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga region) said at least 8, 555 potential household beneficiaries have registered to avail of the newly expanded Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4P’s), the government’s poverty alleviation program. 

The Caraga region DSWD hopes to enlist as beneficiaries under the expanded program households from the municipalities of Santiago and Tubay, both of Agusan del Norte province; San Agustin, Tago, Cortes, all of Surigao del Sur province; Alegria and Sta. Monica, both of Surigao del Norte; and San Jose of Dinagat Islands in Surigao del Norte province. 

According to Region XIII DSWD director Mercedita P. Jabagat, the additional 4P’s potential households were part of the expansion of 4P’s for set 3-D area in order to accommodate more poor households in the region. 

The registration of 4P’s potential household just ended last week. 

The registered 4P’s beneficiaries will receive a monthly cash grant of as much as P1,400.00 to meet their needs in health, nutrition and education, provided that they will comply to the conditions set by program. 

"As a 4P’s beneficiary and a parent leader, I am aware of the conditionalities set by the program. We need to comply these conditionalities for us to remain in the list of beneficiaries," said Gracelyn Baton of Esperanza, Agusan del Sur. 

Baton said under the program, the family with 0-5 years old children must ensure that they have regular check-ups. 

She said, children aged 3-5 must be enrolled in day care and must have at least 85 percent of the school attendance while children aged 6-14 must be enrolled in elementary or high school and must also have at least 85 percent of the school attendance. 

Baton added that pregnant women beneficiaries must avail of the pre- and post-natal care and must be attended by skilled health personnel. The 4P’s also requires the parents or guardians to regularly attend Family Development Session." 

To date, a total of 86, 726 beneficiaries are already receiving the cash grant throughout Caraga region. 

Juliet Bustano, a mother of eight and a resident of Purok 1, El Rio, Sibagat, Agusan del Sur was so elated when she became a beneficiary of 4Ps. Julieta is always thankful to the program "4Ps help us in the school expenses of my children, we were also able to buy nutritious foods and I am just so happy that somehow we will not be too burdened with it," Juliet said. 

4P’s is one of the flagship programs of the government in reducing poverty in the country. 

With this, only the department and no other government agencies and LGU’s could add and exclude beneficiaries in the program. (MUC/PIA-Caraga)