Thursday, March 19, 2015

AgSur to implement PAMANA-DILG multi-million projects

By David M. Suyao

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur, Mar. 19 (PIA) - The provincial government of Agusan del Sur (PGAS) is now ready to implement the multi-million worth of projects from the Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan - Department of the Interior and Local Government (PAMANA-DILG) Fund that will finance ten projects ranging from road concreting, road rehabilitation, construction of potable water supply, installation of potable water system and the construction of bridges.

In a presentation before Agusan del Sur Gov. Adolph Edward Plaza, DILG Caraga regional director Lilibeth Famacion and the PAMANA team of Agusan del Sur and the technical team of DILG Caraga Region, Regional PAMANA focal person Annabelle Ivy Boquirin presented ten projects to be implemented in the ten municipalities.

“We would like to present to you the ten projects lined up for implementation in Agusan del Sur for 2015 so that we can identify what projects the PAMANA team will undertake first,” Boquirin said.

The project with the highest budget is the rehabilitation of National Road Junction (NRJ) – Binucayan, Loreto- Sta. Cruz- Katipunan- Del Monte, Veruela connecting Veruela and Loreto with the length of 20 kilometers with the cost of P93 million. Second is the concreting of 23 kilometers road from San Luis to Barangay crossing Luna in Esperanza with the cost of P80 million. Third is the construction of Sta. Irene- La Purisima bridge in Prosperidad with P30 million, followed by the construction of Baobo PSCG bridge in Veruela with P25 million, construction of Baily bridge that will cross Tanyunan creek in Loreto with P15 million budget, the construction of Kidijay RCDC bridge 1 in Limot, Veruela with P10 million and the rehabilitation of 1.3 kilometers road of New Tubigon bridge in Sibagat with P10 million.

For the construction of potable water projects, Barangays Sayon, Angas, Awao, San Jose, Sta. Isabel, Conception, Patrocenio, Aurora and Pag-asa Poblacion, all in the municipality of Sta. Josefa have P22 million budget while the installation of potable water system in Cebulin and Tudela in Trento have P3 million budget and another P1 million for Binicalan, San Luis is set aside.

“We know we encountered some delays in the liquidation of expended funds therefore, I am asking the PAMANA and DILG to please consider the climate in Agusan del Sur in order that your release of funds and our financial accomplishments will synchronize so that every time we receive the funds and spend them according to the program, we can immediately liquidate them together with our accomplishments to avoid delays of the succeeding releases,” Gov. Plaza said.

It was learned that all the provinces of Caraga Region are recipients of the different programs and projects of the PAMANA programs. (DMS/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

News Feature: DAR AgNor land distribution program reaches 94%, benefits over 20 thousand farmers

By Gil E. Miranda

BUTUAN CITY, Mar. 19 (PIA) - Thousands of farmers are now landowners of the land they till.

After 27 years since former President Corazon C. Aquino signed the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) Law on June 10, 1988, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in Agusan del Norte empowered agrarian-beneficiaries by way of social justice brought about by equitable distribution of lands.

Since the program’s implementation in the province, the hectarage distributed is now 94 percent or 40,423 hectares had been handed out of the revised provincial CARP scope of 43,216 hectares and the number of beneficiaries benefitted reached to 20,312 farmers.

The past 14 years of program’s implementation, since year 2000 have been an upward slide with a total of 22,860 hectares distributed, posted a 57 percent growth. This record breaking performance since Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer (PARPO) II Andre B. Atega, CESO V, took over DAR this province in 2004.

PARPO II Atega, CESO V, said that the DAR Secretary Virgilio delos Reyes ordered to deliver all of the remaining land acquisition and distribution (LAD) balance this year 2015. The directives was given during the assessment in Manila when DAR Caraga regional director Faisar Mambuay presented the CARP Status report of Caraga.

Mambuay eventually requested an audience to PARPO II Andre B. Atega with program implementers in this province for the discussion on the LAD status for this year, 2015 and ensures the target in this province is on the right track.

During the meeting, PARPO II Atega, introduced innovative approach to accelerate land distribution. The goal is to distribute the remaining 2,793 hectares [2015 target] of land to deliver before the first semester ends.

“All LAD targets are targeted in the first semester and a weekly monitoring, with the aid of Office Performance Commitment and Review (OPCR), ensures the progress on land distribution in this province,” PARPO II Atega said.

PARO II Andre Atega honored DAR employees and staff and all CARP Stakeholders in this province who since in his administration have tirelessly pushed the CARP forward. Because of their dedication and commitment to the objectives of the program, farmer-beneficiaries have improved and cooperative turned a bank-like operation. Their stories are proofs that life after agrarian reform interventions in this province can indeed be better. (DAR-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Surigao Norte tourism sector lays out Climate Change action plan

By Rodrigo R. Matabaran

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Mar. 19 (PIA) - The local tourism industry laid out action plan for climate smart economic growth in Siargao Island and Surigao City.

In a two-day workshop on Promotion for Green Economic Development (PROGED) cum Value Chain Workshop held at two venues on March 9-10 at Cherinicole Beach Resort, Gen. Luna, Siargao Island and on March 12-13 at Parkway Hotel, this city, a number of stakeholders and key players in the tourism sector formulated an action plan to address growing concerns of climate change and its potential consequences to the long term viability of various enterprises.

Technical experts from GIZ or Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) of Germany in the persons of Angie Resurreccion and Raquel Capio facilitated the activity while providing vital inputs to the participants.

Department of Tourism (DOT) Caraga regional director Leticia ”Letty” Tan discussed on the greening of the tourism industry while Ramil J. Leongas, Trade and Industry Development Specialist of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) presented various possible greening strategies for the small, and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the value chain.

Among the pressing concerns relative to the expected impact of continuously changing climatic pattern and growing environmental pressures are the challenges on how to keep and maintain the natural endowment of identified tourist destinations more particularly in Siargao and Bucas Grande islands protected areas as well as providing the needed vital infrastructures and support facilities such as power, water and transportation.

Meanwhile, DTI provincial director Celestino L. Negapatan expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the financial and technical support of GIZ and for making the activity a remarkable success in terms of creating awareness to the tourism industry players, the potential effects of climate change and helping them formulate action plans for their respective enterprises and collectively for the whole local tourism industry.

A total of 130 participants joined the activity and actively participated in the discussions and workshops conducted in two locations. Sixty participants attended the session in Gen. Luna, Siargao while 70 stakeholders joined the workshop in Surigao City.

For those interested about PROGED and other related concerns, feel free to visit the DTI Provincial Office located at 2nd Floor, Simtoco Business Center and look for Evelyn C. Arlan, Trade and Industry Development Specialist (TIDS) or contact them through these numbers: (086) 232-4037 and 826-2373. (SDR/DTI-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

New building for cops opens in Bacuag

By John Glenn Platil

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Mar. 19 (PIA) – Bacuag town mayor Sheila Mae. O. Cebedo officiated the turn-over and blessing of a new station building for the Philippine National Police (PNP) on March 16, 2015 at Bacuag poblacion, this province.

The new PNP building worth P4.6 million courtesy of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) was constructed with the assistance and support of Governor Sol F. Matugas.

Mayor Cebedo, who presently chairs the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) – Surigao del Norte chapter, also donated office tables and chairs, beside a complete set of computer items for office use.

Cebedo was joined by members of the Sangguniang Bayan headed by Vice Mayor Columbano Manliguis, Jr., and League of Barangays headed by the Provincial Federated President Ebro Joy Orquina who is currently serving as Provincial Board Member.

She then thanked PNP regional director David Yalong Ombao for being competent, experienced, and versatile.

She also cited the priceless contributions of Col. Henry Dar of the Philippine Army, provincial director PSSupt. Julito Diray, PNP regional chaplain PSupt. Joselito Borja, regional logistics officer PSSupt Ruel Acidre, and Provincial Public Safety Company group director PSupt. Rudy Elandag.

“The long awaited project is here, the long wait for the people of Bacuag especially for our PNP is over, finally our dreams came into reality, I have dreamt of this building since my first day into office as the municipal mayor, I am longing for this beautiful and conducive PNP building, and sa wakas heto na po, before my last term ends natayo na ang isa sa mga pangarap ko - to have this kind of building for my PNP family. Our heartfelt gratitude to our PNP national headquarters for helping us realize our dream,” Mayor Cebedo said.

Mayor Cebedo also thanked the entire police force for shelling out funds to realize the dream of Bacuag PNP to have their own building and for putting Bacuag a top priority especially in constructing PNP building to cater the needs and meet the demands of the clients in the police station.

"I encourage the municipal police personnel to be inspired with the new building which was praised as the most 'decent and beautiful' in the province. And I hope that your new house is not only decent in appearance but also in acts and deeds," said Mayor Cebedo.

Rest assured, Cebedo added, that the local officials will always support your programs and activities for the betterment of our people so let us help one another for the peace and harmony of Bacuag. Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much. May God bless us all," she concluded.

The two-storey PNP building has a spacious chief of police office, other offices intended for the children and women's desk, intelligence and investigation department, separate prison cells for both men and women inmates, comfort rooms and a covered rooftop which could be used for several functions. (SDR/PIC-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

SurSur guv calls for PPOC meeting

By Greg Tataro Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Mar. 19 (PIA) – Governor Johnny Pimentel has set an afternoon meeting with the members of the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC), which he chairs, on March 20, 2015 at the Provincial Governor’s Office (PGO) Conference Room, Capitol Building here.

In the invitation letter dated March 6, 2015, topics for discussion, among other matters, include the following:  Distribution of checks for CLIP enrollees; Presentation and Endorsement of PAMANA 2015 Projects; Creation/Organization of HRAC and Rol in the PPOC; Updates on Conflict Situation; Updates on Criminality and Law Enforcement.

Meanwhile, Maria Lourdes Martinez, program manager of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) here, confirmed that DILG Caraga regional director Lilibeth Famacion has also called for a meeting regarding Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) in the morning of the same day.

It was learned that Oliver Binancilan, OPAPP-PAMANA area coordinator, is going to be present.

Both gatherings will be attended by almost the same personalities, Martinez indicated. (GBT/Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Wednesday, March 18, 2015

Tandag City DepEd chief tells school heads to keep grad rites simple

By Greg Tataro Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Mar. 18 (PIA) – The Department of Education (DepEd) Division Office, this city, has issued a memorandum reminding all concerned school heads to keep the “2015 graduation rites” simple.

Dr. Gregoria Su, schools division superintendent, pointed out that no contribution should be collected for graduation purposes or anything for that matter.

“Expenses relative to the graduation rites should be charged to the school Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE) under the 2015 Budget,” she said quoting DepEd Order No. 3 dated February 26, 2015.

However, Su clarified that Parent-Teachers Associations (PTAs) are not barred from giving donations in whatever form.

Su also said that graduation schedule should be set either on March 26 or 27, adding, however, that other dates that fall within the same week can be considered especially in far flung areas.

This year’s closing exercises carry the theme “Saktong Buhay: Sa De-kalidad na Edukasyon Pinanday,” it was learned. (NGBT/Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Dinagat Islands barangay officials familiarize on VAWC

By Ma. Jane Mayola

SAN JOSE, Dinagat Islands, Mar. 18 (PIA) - The Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office conducted recently a two-day orientation-workshop on the establishment of barangay VAWC desks held at the Pension House Function Hall, Barangay Justiniana, this municipality.

The activity aims to institutionalize VAWC (Violence Against Women and Childeren) desks in all barangays in the province, since barangays are the front liners in providing women and children protection and other related services.

During the two-day activity, Social Welfare Officer III Jessie Catherine Aranas of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga oriented the participants on matters about the establishment of barangay VAWC desks which include the legal basis, officer designation, protocols and procedures, monitoring and evaluation, and the salient provision on laws related to gender-based violence.

The activity was participated by the barangay officials and VAWC officers from the municipalities of Dinagat, Basilisa, and Loreto.

Other municipalities will be under the second batch of the orientation to be held on April this year. (SDR/PIO-Dinagat Islands/PIA-Dinagat Islands)

Caraga army brigade chief seeks continued public support vs. NPA

By Greg Tataro Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Mar. 18 (PIA) – Col. Alexander Macario, 401st Infantry Brigade commander of the Philippine Army (PA) has called on the public to always keep in touch with any of the police and army in case of menacing presence of New People’s Army (NPA) in their locality as the 46th anniversary of the rebel groups on March 29 draws near.

The army official admitted that NPA activities in his area of responsibility (AOR) have stepped up;  in fact as he speaks early today while being interviewed, Macario bared at least five construction equipment owned by Madyaw Construction and Development Corporation in La Paz town, Agusan del Sur have been burned.

He said that Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur are still under the “security responsibility” of his brigade, adding that anytime within this week or a week later, the latter will already be fully “realigned” to the 402nd Infantry Brigade, which is under Col. Isidro Purisima, who just assumed post early last month.

Moreover, he stressed that 402nd Brigade’s AOR is going to be solely Surigao del Sur, which is home to four army battalions at present.

Transition is currently ongoing, Macario remarked.

It can be recalled that news of putting up an army brigade in Surigao del Sur has already been made public recently by Governor Johnny Pimentel.

Meanwhile, the brigade commander said that despite the increased sightings of insurgents as reported by civilians in his AOR, the situation remains relatively normal, hence there is no cause for alarm. (NGBT/Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

COA auditors present audit findings to TESDA-13 personnel

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, Mar. 18 (PIA) - Audit team of the Commission on Audit (COA)-Caraga has recently met with key personnel of the different operating units of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)-Caraga to report the annual audit findings during the previous year.

This was learned from TESDA Caraga regional director Florencio F. Sunico, Jr. saying that this activity supports the flagship program of the national government which is Transparency and Accountability, in line with the directives of TESDA Sec. Joel Villanueva.

In her opening statement, Finance and Administrative Services Division (FASD) chief Emma De Villa emphasized that the activity provides input to the finance matters of the agency so that everything will be put in place or systematically considering that TESDA-Caraga is already certified internationally through the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).

The official is hoping that with the conduct of the activity, financial and operational transactions will be improved not only in the regional and provincial offices but as well as the TESDA Technology Institutions (TTIs).

During the event, OIC-Regional Supervising Auditor Maritess Odtojan who is the team leader presented the annual findings. Recommendations were also presented where concerned TESDA personnel were given the opportunity to raise queries on every issues and concerns raised.

Odtojan further said it is imperative for both the auditee agency and auditors to have a clear understanding of what the management had done to attain its goal of accomplishing 100 percent of its mandated programs and projects.

Likewise, this undertaking is for the management to understand how and why the auditors had come up with the findings.

De Villa further said before these audit results will be finalized, auditors shall seek first the comments of the management regarding the outcome of their audit. The exit conference served as venue for both parties to give their comments and insights on the audit findings.

Section 41 of Presidential Decree 1445 stated “The Commission shall submit to the President, the Prime Minister, and the National Assembly not later than the last day of September of each year an annual report of the financial condition and results of operation of all agencies of the government which shall include recommendations of measures necessary to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of these agencies.” (TESDA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Tagalog News: Palasyo: Walang “sinadyang paglabag” ng kautusan sa hanay ng pulisya sa parte ni Pangulong Aquino

Ni David M. Suyao

AGUSAN DEL SUR, Marso 18 (PIA) - Alin man ay walang sinadyang paglabag ng kautusan sa hanay ng pulisya o pag bale-wala ng batas sa parte ni Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino noong isakatuparan ang operasyon para tugisin ang mga suspetsadong terorista sa Mamasapano, Maguindanao noong nakaraang Enero, sabi ng Palasyo.

Sinabi ni Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. sa isang panayam sa mga mamamahayag nong Martes na palaging nagpunyagi ang Pangulo sa kanyang mga ginagawa at ito ay naaayon sa Konstitusyon.

“Wala pong ganyang intensyon (break the chain of command) dahil sa lahat ng pagkakataon, ang Pangulo po natin ay sinusuri ang kongkretong batayan sa Konstitusyon at sa batas sa lahat ng kanyang pagkilos,” sabi niya.

Binigyang diin ni Coloma na kahit ang Pangulo ay Commander-in-Chief o kaya Chief Executive ng PNP, ang prinsipyo ay pareho at ito ay sakmal lahat ng responsibilidad ng Pangulo.

“Iisa lang po ang bottom line: Kailangan niyang tuparin ang kanyang sinumpaang tungkulin; na pangalagaan at ipagtaggol ang konstitusyon, bigyan ng hustisya ang bawat Pilipino,” sabi niya.

“Iyan po ang kanyang sinumpaang tungkulin. Kaya po malinaw din naman ang kanyang sagot na ginawa niya dito sa pagkakataong ito ang inaakala niyang pinakamabuting paraan nang pagganap niya ng kanyang tungkulin. At kinikilala rin naman ito ng Board of Inquiry, na nagsabing nasa karapatan ng Pangulo na direktang magbigay ng kautusan sa (Special Action Force) Director (Getulio) Napenas,” paliwanag niya.

May mga pananaw na nilabag ni Pangulong Aquino ang kautusan sa hanay ng pulisya ng payagan niya ang suspendidong Hepe ng PNP na si Director General Alan Purisima na maging kasangkot sa operasyon para hulihin ang mga teroristang sina Zulkifli bin Hir na kilalarin bilang Marwan at Abdul Bassit Usman.

“Walang pagsira doon sa regulasyon dahil kahit ano namang perspektibo ang ating kuhanin dito, whether it is the Chief Executive or the Commander-in-Chief perspective, iisa lang po ang prinsipyo dito: the President has ultimate responsibility,” sabi ni Coloma. (PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Tuesday, March 17, 2015

SurSur agri office gears up for El Niño

By Greg Tataro Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Mar. 17 (PIA) – The Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPAg) in Surigao del Sur has already started to lay out preparations for the possible effect of “El Niño.”

Marcos Quico, chief agriculturist here, said the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office (DA-RFO) in Caraga headed by Director Edna Mabeza has even requested on March 11, 2015 for the “list of area” that might be at risk.

“The DA-RFO XIII is now preparing mitigation for the possible occurrence of weak El Niño in our region.  Requesting you to submit your respective list of area possibly be affected including operational/non operational NIA Water Service Station,” so went the fax message appearing in bold print.

In this regard, Quico has deemed it wise to coordinate with the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) through Provincial Irrigation Management Office (PIMO) chief Engr. Dexter Sablaon for significant inputs.

NIA, in return, provided the OPAg with the “Status of Irrigation Development” in the province as of December 31, 2014.

The total potential area for irrigation development was posted at 26,778 hectares while the service area with existing irrigation system is yet at 15,957 hectares or equivalent to 59.58 percent, it was learned.

El Niño is a phenomenon characterized by severe climate disruption to countries in and beside the Pacific.  (NGB/Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

DA, LGUs partner on rabies eradication

By Fretcher Magatao

BUTUAN CITY, Mar. 17 (PIA) - The Department of Agriculture (DA) led the nationwide kick-off activity for the rabies awareness month.

Together with the LGUs in the region, a mass dog castration and anti-rabies vaccination were conducted last March 7 in different cities and municipalities region-wide.

 “This activity is conducted to control dog population and eliminate rabies infection in the city,” Dr. Niño Ceasar Perez said.

In 2014, the city has recorded 1,800 dog-bite cases wherein Brgy. Libertad topped the highest number of cases which led to one casualty.

Avoiding more fatality, the city aims to be rabies-free by 2016 through the conduct of dog castration and anti-rabies vaccination services in the city barangays. The veterinary team is also conducting regular mass dog vaccination at the City Hall every Wednesday to give convenience to pet owners instead of going to Tiniwisan where their office is located.

 “We have been regularly conducting anti-rabies vaccination in the barangays down to the purok level just to make sure that every dog is vaccinated,” said Dr. Perez.

The same activity was conducted in Surigao City and the municipality of Santiago. A report from the Department of Health (DOH) shows that there are 1,022 dog-bite cases last year in Surigao City leading to five deaths of rabies infection.

“We have been reminding the dog owners to vaccinate their dogs since rabies infection is very alarming in the city. The office has been conducting regular information dissemination through IEC materials and lectures to the barangays in the locality,” said Dr. Maridel Zerda of Surigao City Veterinary Office.

 “We have prioritized the municipality of Santiago for anti-rabies vaccination to dogs for it revealed the highest number of dog bite cases among all other municipalities in Agusan del Norte last year. We would want to conduct the same operation next month in another municipality,” Dr. Belen Aruelo, Agusan del Norte Provincial Veterinarian said.

Republic Act 9482 or Anti-rabies Act emphasizes on the responsibilities of the concerned agencies such as DA, DOH, Department of Education and Department of the Interior and Local Government; it also includes the pet owners with corresponding penalties.

As such, the synchronized activity on mass castration and vaccination is geared toward Rabies-Free Philippines by 2020. (DA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Gov’t troops score in clash with NPA rebels in Agnor

By Cpt. Joe Patrick A. Martinez

CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City, Mar. 17 (PIA) - Government troops under 29th Infantry Battalion (29IB) and 13th Regional Police Service Battalion clashed with communist rebels killing a still undetermined number of gunmen in the hinter-area of Brgy. Hinimbangan, Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte around 8:20 a.m., Monday.

An information was relayed by a concerned civilian in the area about the presence of some 30 New People’s Army (NPA) rebels believed to be members of Guerilla Front 16 of North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee who are extorting money from the local populace in the area in preparation to support the logistical requirements for the upcoming anniversary celebration on March 29.

Ltc Adonis Ariel Orio, 29IB Commanding Officer, immediately coordinated with the Philippine National Police (PNP) to conduct a joint operation to go after the said NPAs.

Upon arrival at the said area, NPAs indiscriminately opened fire against the government troops unmindful of the presence of civilians in the community. The troops managed to maneuver to a more advantage position and were able to return fire against the NPAs. Troops inflicted casualties to the NPAs. After the 20-minute gun battle, the NPAs withdrew out of the engagement area. Civilians in the area have seen the engaged NPAs carrying their wounded and dead comrades.

Recovered from the area are the following: one M203 grenade launcher, three M16 and two AK 47 rifles, undetonated Improvised Explosive Devices with complete paraphernalia, backpacks of NPA casualties and subversive documents with high intelligence value.

Troops also recovered one dead NPA and is now being facilitated by the 29IB, PNP and local government unit of Kitcharao for identification and proper disposition.

Ltc Orio immediately ordered his troop to conduct pursuit operation against the escaping NPAs.

Major General Oscar T Lactao, Commander of 4th Infantry Division, congratulated his gallant troops together with the PNP in performing their duty in protecting the people in Kitcharao against the lawless elements.

“We also would like to thank the people for giving us timely and complete information about the presence of the NPAs in their community,” he said. (4ID PA/PIA-Caraga)

Monday, March 16, 2015

Women’s Congress in Butuan inspires various sectors

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Mar. 16 (PIA) – The invited speakers during the recently concluded 1st Women’s Congress here spearheaded by the city government thru Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) Committee on Women, Children, Youth and Family Concerns had inspired participating various sectors through their messages and updates.

Third District Camarines Sur representative Atty. Maria Leonor G. Robredo and model/businesswoman Wilma Doesnt are the guest speakers during the said event.

SP Committee on Women, Children, Youth and Family Concerns chairperson Atty. Rema Burdeos, in coordination with the Regional Development Council-Gender and Development Coordinating Committee (RDC-GADCC) chaired by Commission on Human Rights (CHR) Caraga regional director Atty. Marylin Pintor invited some 200 participants coming from the different sectors in the city.

“We have been celebrating Women’s Month every year, but this is actually the first time that we are conducting this kind of activity where women organizations gather and have a dialogue. The city government would like to help the marginalized sector and plenty of women who need our assistance. We also would like our women to be empowered that’s why we would like to give them the opportunity to enhance their skills through different trainings, as well as livelihood,” bared Burdeos.

Butuan City Mayor Ferdinand Amante Jr, who was celebrating his birthday that same day also graced said activity and expressed his appreciation and recognition to all the women organizations in the city who continuously participate in community activities.

“We are calling on women who want to impart their knowledge and skills to join politics and be heard. We are optimistic that more women will be empowered in many possible ways,” stressed Amante. 

Also, Atty. Robredo shared her experiences in the government service and how she dealt with different people who approached her for assistance, especially the women who need legal counsel.

“We, in the government service need to create or come up with local policies that will ensure women to be economically-empowered,” she bared. 

Robredo further revealed that she has passed a bill in congress amending the law on concubinage and adultery.

Wilma Doesnt also delivered her inspirational message to all the men and women participants. As a mother of three, she also recalled her hardships that she was able to surpass," she stressed.

Doesnt encouraged women to be strong and continue to strive for life despite many challenges. “I am empowered wherever I am in the world. I am confident that I will survive wherever I am. My parents have raised me well, and I always apply the values that they have inculcated in me,” she said.

“Whatever problems that we are facing in life, never give up! If you get tired, just take a rest but never, never give up. If you will give up easily, you will never know what could be better for you, and what’s there ahead of you,” articulated Doesnt.  

Doesn’t further emphasized to accept failures. “If we fail, let’s not deny it. Instead, let’s acknowledge it, embrace the feelings, and accept it so we can move on and be a better person,” she said.

Meanwhile, in time with the said activity, a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was also signed between the city government thru Mayor Amante and Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Caraga thru regional director Lilibeth Famacion. The MOA contained the needed funds for the Farm-to-Market Road project in the conflict-stricken areas in the city. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

News Feature: Soybean: A Rising Industry in Caraga Region

By Aurelius P. Arais

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Mar. 16 (PIA) – Caraga Region particularly the provinces of Surigao del Sur and Agusan del Sur is still one of the major producing soybean areas of the country.

To keep up the momentum, the Department of Agriculture (DA) Caraga conducted the Workshop on Updating the Region’s Soybean Roadmap held in this city last March 4-6.

Farmers and agricultural extension workers as well as nutrition action officers from the soybean producing municipalities in the said provinces participated the activity to gain valuable inputs.

Spearheaded by DA Caraga Research Division chief Wilfreda Manos, the group came up with clearer direction to strengthen and increase the enthusiasm of soybean farmers as well as investors engaged in the soybean industry.

“I am so thankful for all the stakeholders who are attending here because we are looking for more efficient and attainable plans to further boost Caraga’s soybean production,” Manos said.

However, Manos emphasized that soybean in Caraga should be treated first as food for human especially in solving the malnutrition problem since it is an excellent source of protein, vitamins and minerals.

Soybeans today is considered as one of the food sources used in the programs of various local government units in the region to curb malnutrition.

Soybean has the potential to help solve the problem of hunger and malnutrition. The seed contain approximately 40-45% protein, 20-25% edible vegetable oil and a significant amount of vitamin A and E as well as minerals and micronutrients making it a valuable component in many food items both for human and animals thus it is also an important ingredient for livestock feeds.

Provincial Agriculturist Marcos Quico urged soybean growers in Caraga to organize the members to establish an aggressive marketing linkage to big buyers or processors.

As of 2014, Caraga region have more or less 600 hectares planted with soybeans mostly in San Miguel and Tago, Surigao del Sur and in Trento, Agusan del Sur.

DA Caraga has its vision to further expand the areas to be planted with soybeans this year to keep Caraga in the forefront of soybean industry in the country. (DA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

DTI Dinagat Islands conduct cooperators consultation workshop

By Mardel Allen G. Delanto

SAN JOSE, Dinagat Islands, Mar. 16 (PIA) – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Dinagat Islands recently conducted the Shared Service Facility (SSF) Cooperators Consultation Meeting cum Workshop at the 4 Groups Function Hall, this municipality.

The activity aims to revisit the SSF guidelines as well as provide the status of the memorandum of agreement and other documentary compliances and help the SSF cooperators in drafting their manual of operations and business plans.

The SSF project of DTI is one of the agency’s flagship project that will aid to spur the growth of micro, small, and medium scale enterprises (MSMEs) through improving the competitiveness of entrepreneurs by addressing the gaps and bottlenecks in the productivity of MSMEs through provision of common service facilities.

Under the said project, 11 out of the 23 SSF beneficiaries have already received various equipment, tools and machineries.

The eleven beneficiaries are Dinagat Province Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DiPPCI), Aurelio Holy Trinity Chapter, Poblacion San Jose Women’s Organization, Mary Sampaguita Farmers Association, A & M Multi-Purpose Cooperative, Cayetano Agra Consumers Cooperative, Justiniana Edera Agra Producers Cooperative (JEDAPCO), San Jose Ring Makers Association, Justiniana Women’s Association, Chapter Economic Development Management Office (CEDMO)-Ken Michael Chapter and DTI-Dinagat Islands for Business Resource Center.

The said activity was attended by SSF beneficiaries across the province. (SDR/DTI-Dinagat Islands/PIA-Dinagat Islands)

DA to implement P673M BuB, PAMANA projects in 2015

By Vanessa P. Sanchez

BUTUAN CITY, Mar. 16 (PIA) - The Department of Agriculture (DA) Regional Field Office XIII is set to implement a total of 155 projects under the Bottom-up-Budgeting (BuB) and 10 projects under Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) this year.

For PAMANA, five livelihood projects amounting P6.5 million and five Farm-to-Market Roads (FMRs) amounting P464 million will be implemented.

As for the BuB, project total amount is P202,614,073 distributed as follows:

            Projects                               No. of Projects                 Amount

·      Surigao del Sur                                48                   P         39,641,800

·      Agusan del Sur                                47                               81,954,173

·      Surigao del Norte                            28                               44,262,200 

·      Agusan del Norte                            20                               21,121,900

·      Province of Dinagat Islands           12                               15,634,000

In support to the participating local government units, DA recently conducted two batches of Project Proposal Writeshop attended by the municipalities with BUB and PAMANA projects from the five provinces of the region.

The participants were taught how to prepare a good project proposal and were given time to refine their current proposals. Samples of their output were then presented for critiquing and recommendations.

Edelmira R. Luminarias, the Regional Focal Person for BuB and PAMANA, said that they purposely conducted the writeshop to put in place the project implementation under BuB and PAMANA for 2015.

“The municipalities and project beneficiaries should be at the same phase for faster implementation because we are obliged to implement the projects for 2015 within the year only. Replacement of projects is no longer allowed at this time and any realignment of funds should have the approval of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Luminarias said.

BuB is a poverty reduction program of the government while PAMANA is the national government’s peace and development framework to respond and strengthen peace building, reconstruction, and development in conflict-affected areas (CAAs). (DA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga) 

Friday, March 13, 2015

BATCOM condemns NPA anew for risking “minor” in clash vs. army in SurSur, 1 killed

By Greg Tataro Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Mar. 13 (PIA) – A 17-year old female member of the New People’s Army (NPA) was killed on Thursday morning, March 12, in a clash against army troopers in Kilometer 7, Barangay Pakwan, Lanuza town, 43 kilometers north, this city.

Capt. Al Anthony Pueblas, 36th Infantry Battalion (36IB) civil military officer (CMO) identified the victim as Kiring Salahay Tagunsolod aka “Che-Che,” a resident of Purok 4, Barangay Hinapuyan, Carmen town, an adjacent municipality two kilometers down south.

The army CMO bared that the victim serves as “medic” for Guerilla Front 30 (GF 30).

Upon learning of the incident, 36IB Battallion Commander Lt. Col. Anastacio Suaybaguio, Jr. condemned anew the rebel groups here for recruiting a minor.

It can be recalled that last week, Suaybaguio has already condemned the acts of the NPA when they used a landmine in an ambush set for a private vehicle; a 17-year old boy was hurt.

“Among gikondenar ang rebelding NPA sa ilang padayon nga pagpang-rekrut ug paggamit sa mga kabatan-unan sa armadong pakigbisog (We condemn the NPA rebels for keeping on enlisting and employing the youths in their armed struggle),” the battalion commander said.

“Ang atong kabatan-unan maoy kaugmaon sa atong nasud apan giguba lamang kini sa walay pulos nga idelohiya sa rebeldeng NPA (The youths are the hope of our nation only that they are ruined because of the nonsense ideology of the NPA),” the army official added.

Reportedly, the Charlie Company platoon led by 2LT. Payangdo was conducting a security/pursuit operation when it encountered some 15 NPA rebels that lasted for about a quarter of an hour which left “Che-Che” dead whose companions scampered to safety, according to Pueblas. (NGBT/Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

AgSur to launch 4th edition of investment promotion collateral

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur, Mar. 13 (PIA) - The provinccial government here will soon launch the 4th edition of the province’s investment promotion collateral that will open the gate for investors, tourists, adventurers and nature lovers to know more, and explore the potentials that Agusan del Sur can offer.

The collateral lays information about the province’s culture and heritage displayed every year during the Naliyagan Festival that takes place starting June 12 and ending on the 17th of June every year. It also offers information about the economy, human resources, transport and communication, trade and industry, finance and administration, agriculture, forestry and fishery and tourist destinations. This gives the provincial leadership led by Gov. Adolph Edward Plaza the opportunity of inviting investors to develop and discover the golden opportunities in agriculture, agri-business, resource-based investment such as fine jewelry, 'minahan ng bayan' processing plant, services like the mini-hydro power generation, tourism and public-private partnership (PPP).

The collateral will also guide visitors where to stay while in the province. Complete list of hotels, inns and lodging houses located in the 13 municipalities and the lone city of Bayugan is clearly printed in the collateral.

In doing business with working force, the collateral also lays down information on the Daily Minimum Wage rate based on official rate prescribed by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). Taxes and Licenses on permit fees are broken down by their capacity in all the 13 municipalities and Bayugan City.

On December 16, 2014, Gov. Plaza has confirmed with the 401st Infantry Brigade under the command of then Col. Gregory Cayetano a document declaring the entire province of Agusan del Sur as Conflict-Manageable and Development Ready Area thus, presenting the entire province as business potential and peaceful place to live in. (DMS/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

PAL eyes flights to Bislig

BISLIG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Mar. 13 (PIA) – With the influx of 6,000 monthly average of tourists visiting Tinuy-an falls in 2014, both foreign and local, the city is becoming a promising place for the Philippine Airlines’ (PAL’s) business venture.

Last March 4-5, five PAL inspectorates headed by Capt. Timothy James Mapeso visited the city. It was learned that PAL has a plan to establish flights from Bislig City to Cebu City or Manila utilizing a 77-seater turbo prop planes.

The inspectorates have checked the facilities and runway of Bislig airport and coordinated with the other agencies in the setting-up of its flight operations.

They have also visited the Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine National Police, Bislig District Hospital, and Andres Soriano Memorial Hospital.

The planned direct flights to Bislig City will make the city more accessible and would open new doors of job opportunities for the residents, boosting the economy of the city. (NGBT/City Information Office/JOC/LaiElechicon/AJGarcia/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Caraga RDC-EDC set to hold 1st quarter meeting

Ni Greg Tataro Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Mar. 13 (PIA) – The Regional Development Council-Economic Development Committee (RDC-EDC) in Caraga chaired by Butuan City Mayor Ferdinand Amante, Jr. is set to hold its 1st Quarter Meeting on March 16, 2015 at Samping Avenue, J. C. Avenue, Butuan City.

In a letter dated March 9, 2015 sent to Surigao del Sur Governor Johnny Pimentel, five agenda items are lined-up for discussion.

Among others, FY 2016 Agencies’ Budget Proposal presentation tops the list followed by RDC XII Resolution No. 78 series of 2014 entitled “Encouraging Manufacturing Firms, Food Exporting Entities, and Halal Accreditation and Certifying Bodies to Utilize the DOST XII Halal Laboratory To Ensure Halal Integrity Food and Non-Food Products.

”Halal” is a ritual description attributed to animal meat that have been slaughtered as prescribed in the Islamic law, it was learned.

As pointed out, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is going to be the “presenter” in regard to the halal.

Meanwhile, Engr. Satur Umali, a high ranking official of the Provincial Planning and Development Office (PPDO) here, assured that somebody from their office is certainly going to attend the occasion to represent in case the governor is not available.

He said that PPDO chief Engr. Merlinda Baure usually takes the place of Governor Pimentel or anybody equally competent. (NGBT/Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Cebuano News: Emission permit issuance online na – DENR

Ni Richell P. Bongato

BUTUAN CITY, Mar. 13 (PIA) - Ang Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) kauban ang Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) modawat na alang sa aplikasyon online para sa Certificate of Conformity (COC) gi-isyu sa mga bag-ong sakyanan nga adunay pagsunod sa numerical emission standard nga gihatag sa maong ahensya.

Ang COC gikinahanglan aron sa pasiunang pag-rehistro sa bag-ong sakyanang de motor sa Land Transportation Office (LTO), attach agency sa Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC).

Matud ni DENR Secretary Ramon J.P Paje ang unang electronic service usa sa mga inisyatibo og paagi sa departamento aron mapadali ang transaksyon ug mapalambo ang regulasyon sa panurbisyu sa katawhan.

“Ang online usa sa paagi aron pag-abot ngadto sa mga stakeholders ug mahimong dali ug walay hasol sa ilaha,” gitino ni Paje.

Seksyon 22 sa Republic Act 8749 kun Philippine Clean Air Act 1999, nag-ingon nga “unsa mang imported og local nga paghimo sa mga bag-ong sakyanan dili pwede marehistro kun wala kini nakasunod sa emission standard nga anaa aning balaod, nga gipamatuoran aning pag-isyu sa Certificate of Conformity sa DENR.

Ubos sa bag-ong sistema, ang mag-rehistro aduna silay kaugalingon account nga nakabutang ang ilahang personal nga impormasyon 24 hours, 7 days a week gamit ang ilahang username og password aron maka-acess sila aning online processing service. Sa diha, makabalo sila sa mga detalyadong aktibidadis bisag unsang orasa.

Aron marehistro, ang tanang aplikante mahimo lamang mo log on sa EMB’s official website kun www.emb.gov.ph ug iclick daun ang “COC Online o “HazWaste Online Registration” ug e-right click ang korner sa page. Usa ka account ang mahimo nga adunay email address ug password. (DENR-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Cebuano News: Tri-division top students summit malampusong gipahigayon

Ni Mary Jul E. Escalante

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Mar. 13 (PIA) – Malampusong gipahigayon bag-ohay pa lamang ang Tri-Division Top Student Summit didto sa Provincial Convention Center, ning dakbayan.

Ang maong summit nagdala sa temang,  "The Right Career: Key to Achieving Global Competitiveness in the ASEAN Integration,” diin gitambungan kini sa mga top 3 nga mga studyante nga mogradwar karong Marso sa nagkadaiyang tulunghaan sa sekondarya sa syudad, Siargao Island ug Surigao Del Norte Division.

Adunay tulo ka mga mamumulong ang mihatag sa ilang mga mensahe sama nila Dr. Dennis Prince Germano ang Dean sa College of Business and Technology sa St. Paul University, Engr. Rosanne Andaluz ang chairman sa Engineering Division sa Surigao State College and Technology (SSCT) ug Dr. Anthony Penaso ang Presidente sa Caraga State University.

Sa mensahe ni Gobernador Sol F. Matugas, iyang gibutyag nga kining maong programa iyang gisugdan didto sa Region 8 niadtong sya pa ang DepEd regional director ug iya kining gidala dinhi aron gayod maatiman ug magiyahan ang mga kabataan ilabina sa desisyon sa ilang pagpili ug kurso.

Atol sa maong okasyon, gipahigayon usab ang pagpang apod-apod sa mga certificate of recognition sa 46 ka mogradwar nga mga estudyante sa kolehiyo ubos sa programa sa programang libreng edukasyon sa probinsya nga gitawag nga “Eskolaran."

Ang maong programa nahimugso niadtong tuig 1993 sa panahon pa ni Gobernador Francisco Matugas nga karon kongresista na sa unang distrito, ug ang maong programa gipadayon ni Gob. Sol nga walay lain tumong ug tuyo mao ang paghatag ug maayong kaugmaon para sa mga kabataan kay sila man ang ugma sa atong lalawigan. (SDR/PIC-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)