(PAGASA 24-HOUR PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST as of Friday, 25 April 2025) Frontal System affecting Extreme Northern Luzon. Easterlies affecting the rest of the country. 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 Easterlies. 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—‘: Light to moderate winds coming from East to Northeast will prevail with slight to moderate seas / (0.6 to 1.8 meters).


Wednesday, April 22, 2015

DOLE chief declares Siargao Island as labor law compliant tourism hub

By Iris C. Asis

BUTUAN CITY, April 22 (PIA) – Siargao Island, the country’s surfing capital, has been declared labor law compliant tourist destination by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

Labor secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz along with Surigao del Norte governor Sol F. Matugas, and 1st district representative Francisco T. Matugas led the unveiling of the marker at the port of Dapa on Apr. 17, 2015.

The symbol of compliance assures foreign and local tourists and other visitors stepping ashore in the island that labor laws are being observed, hence, they can be guaranteed of optimum service. Further, investors will pour in more investments and more jobs will be created.

 “We aim for decent jobs with no exploitations and no malpractices. Kaya inaayos ang lahat na maging labor laws compliant tourist destination upang magkaroon ng payak na pundasyon at matamasa ang panghabangbuhay na kaunlaran,” Sec. Baldoz said.

She further stated that the country is now the rising tiger of Asia with its increasing economic growth. A project like this is evidently one of the major reasons why the country will be on its sweet spot from 2015-2019.

Baldoz was also joined by DOLE undersecretary Rebecca C. Chato, Bureau of Local Employment director Dominique Tutay, Bureau of Working Condition director Catherine Parado, Labor Communications Office director Nicon Fameronag, Planning Service director Adeline de Castro, and Institute for Labor Studies director Grace Riguer.

During the event, DOLE Caraga regional director Atty. Johnson G. CaΓ±ete awarded the certificates of compliance to 127 establishments in Siargao while Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) Caraga board sec. Earl dela Victoria awarded Productivity Incentive Award to Isla Cabana Resort.

Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Caraga regional director Samuel Madrid also awarded certificates of skills training to 32 graduates of the OWWA coco sugar skills training while the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Caraga awarded the one million scholarship grant for the constituents in Siargao Island.

Gov. Matugas and Cong. Matugas were overwhelmed by the services given by DOLE and its attached agencies.

Meanwhile, Nancy Jacinto, National Reintegration Center for OFWs (NRCO), proudly announced the livelihood grant of Richie J. Arcular. He is one of the undocumented Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Saudi Arabia who was repatriated with the implementation of Saudization. Jacinto turned over the mini spare parts livelihood kit for the enhancement of his existing welding shop.

Another awardee is Helen A. Nalupa, a household services worker for eight years in Hongkong. “I heard about the SPIMS (Sa Pinas Ikaw ang Maam/Sir) through one of the Philippine Labor Officers (POLOs) and I immediately grabbed the opportunity,” she said.

SPIMS is one of the many programs of NRCO in cooperation with the Department of Education, where OFW LET passers are given a permanent position as Teacher I, provided that they return to the Philippines and serve in a government school. (FEA/DOLE-13/PIA-Caraga)


Agusan Norte LGU, DILG 13 join forces vs HIV, AIDS

By Bryan F. Edulzura

BUTUAN CITY, April 22 (PIA) -  The alarming rise of HIV and AIDS cases in Agusan del Norte has pushed the provincial government of Agusan del Norte and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region 13 to intensify their advocacy against the epidemic and conducted a province-wide Orientation of HIV and AIDS last April 17, 2015.

Attended by mayors, Sangguniang Bayan chair on health, health officers, civil society organizations, and partner national agencies, the activity was aimed at educating these sectors about HIV and AIDS including provincial statistics, legal mandates, prevention measures and localizing response.

According to Department of Health Region 13, of the 53 cases recorded in the region between January to December 2015, 22 are found in Agusan del Norte and Butuan City.  This year at least three new cases were recorded in the city, bringing to a total of 77 People Living with HIV (PLHIV) as of March 2015.

“We should do something drastic about the rising cases of HIV and AIDS in the province,” said DILG provincial director Romeo O. Solis.

“Advocacy is not enough, our local governments should craft policies and allocate resources to ensure that HIV and AIDS prevalence remains low,” he added.

Solis said the high prevalence rate of Cebu, Davao and Cagayan de Oro cities makes Butuan City doubly vulnerable because these cities are geographically and economically close to the city. "We also have several young people studying or working in these cities,” he said.

The provincial government has strengthened their Local Aids Council (LAC) by allocating budget to the program, conducting quarterly meeting and encouraging all LGUs to do the same, it was learned. “We will support the program in terms of resource allocation and policies,” said Sangguniang Panlalwigan member Ray Jamboy.

“Among the policies that we will push through is the policy requiring Entertainment and Tourism related industry to display HIV and AIDS advocacy materials within their establishment. These will red flag the dangers of contracting HIV and AIDS,” he emphasized. 

Meanwhile, DILG Caraga regional director Lilibeth Famacion said that their office fully supports the HIV and AIDS program not only because they are mandated to do so, "but because we value the lives of these young people (most vulnerable group) who are the future of our country. We could not allow our local governments to be crippled with this epidemic, hence, we enjoin all LGUs to organize their respective Local AIDS council – as a venue to tackle issues on HIV and AIDS.”

“The entire force of DILG 13 is one with the local government units on this fight," Famacion added.  (with a report from Michelle C. Villacastin, DILG-Caraga/PIA-Agusan del Norte)


Butuan City Division shines in the 2015 National Festival of Talents

By Dr. Jonas H. Jomonong

BUTUAN CITY, April 22 (PIA) – Department of Education (DepEd) Butuan City Division once again shines in the recently concluded National Festival of Talents (NFOT) held at Makati City in various venues with the theme “Harnessing Talents toward ASEAN Integration 2015” last April 7-10, 2015 where three of its participants bagged major awards on the said competition.

Rafael G. Carampatana and Mark Kleen Reve S. Iquiban of Agusan National High School won 1st place in Landscaping category with their coach Ignacio S. Falcon.

On the other hand, Raymund C. Atillo of Tungao National High School bagged 3rd place in Hairstyle with Make-up Category with Nera B. Bocala as coach.

The NFOT aims to provide opportunities for students to showcase their talents in the following subject areas: language, arts, social studies, and technology and livelihood education through exhibitions of their products and performance as evidence of their learning; and extend parallel learning sessions for teachers and students to enhance their knowledge and skills in their respective fields of interest.

DepEd through the Bureau of Secondary Education, conducted the 2015 NFOT consisting of skills exhibition in different fields, simultaneously with the National Schools Press Conferences (NSPC) on April 7-10, 2015. The entire Festival was hosted by the National Capital Region (NCR) at different venues. (DepEd Butuan City Division/PIA-Agusan del Norte)


Tagalog News: Paghatol ng kaalyado sa pulitika nagpakita ng katapatan ng administrasyon na sugpuin ang korupsiyon, sabi ng Palasyo

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur, Abril 22 (PIA) - Ang hatol ng pagkakasala na inihain sa Gobernador ng Oriental Mindoro na si Gov. Alfonso Umali Jr., kaalyado ni Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III, ay nagpapatunay ng katapatan ng pamahalaan sa paglaban sa korapsiyon, sabi ng isang opisyal ng Palasyo.

“Palaging sinasabi ng mga tao na sa ilalim ng administrasyong Aquino, ang kanyang mga kalaban lamang ang sinasakdal sa korte. Sa partikular na kasong ito, ipinakita na hindi ganun ang kaso,” sabi ni Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte noong Martes na panayam sa medya.

Si Umali, na siyang tresurero ng Partido Liberal ni Pangulong Aquino, ay na sentensiyahan ng Sandiganbayan ng hanggang 10 taong pagkabilanggo dahil sa illegal na pagpadali ng P2.5 milyon na pautang sa isang nagmay-ari ng barko noong 1994. Nagsisilbi sa pangatlo at panghuling termino bilang gobernador.

“Kung kayo ay magtanong kung ano ang susunod na hakbang na mangyari, ipina-ubaya na natin ito sa legal na koponan ni Gob. Umali para magplano ng kanyang mga susunod na hakbang. May mga legal na remedyo para sa kanya sa ilalim ng batas,” sabi ni Valte.

Maliban kay Umali, nakitaan rin ng korte ang dating Representante ng Oriental Mindoro na si Rodolfo Valencia at dating Board Member Romualdo Bawasanta na maysala sa paglabag ng Akta Republika No. 3019, o ang tinatawag na Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.

Sina Valencia at Umali ay gobernador at provincial administrator noong Enero 1994, noong ang pamahalaang panlalawigan ay pinagtibay ang irregular na pautang para sa pag-ayos, pamamahala at pagtaguyod ng isang pribadong may-ari ng pampasaherong sasakyan. (DMS/PIA-Agusan del Sur)


Cebuano News: Palasyo mianunsyo sa pagtudlo sa bag-ong mga maghuhukom, prosecutors

SURIGAO DEL SUR, Abril 22 (PIA) - Ang Palasyo mipahibalo sa mga bag-ong gitudlo nga mga maghuhukom, prosecutors, ug usa ka opisyal sa Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

Atol sa usa ka press briefing nga gipahigayon didto sa Malakanyang kagahapon, si Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte miingon nga ang maong mga pagtudlo sa nagkadaiyang posisyon gipirmahan ni Presidente Benigno S. Aquino III niadtong Abril 6, 2015.

Sumala sa taho ang mga opisyales nga bag-ong gitudlo isip mga maghuhukom  sa Regional Trial Court (RTC) gilangkoban nila ni: Jose Rene Gallemit Dondoyano alang sa Branch 6, ug Ric Sister Bastasa alang sa Branch 8 (sa Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte); Nida Bringas Alejandro alang sa Branch 12 (Laoag City, Ilocos Norte); Walter Orais Junia alang sa Branch 39 - Special Court alang sa Environmental Cases (Lingayen, Pangasinan); Pablo Ramil Attolba, Jr. alang sa Branch 30 (Bambang, Nueva Vizcaya); Kimal Mustapha Salacop alang sa Branch 6 (Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur); Elma Mendoza Rafallo-Lingan alang sa Branch 159 - Special Court alang sa mga kaso sa Pamilya og Special Commercial Court (Pasig City); Rowena Nieves Adena Tan alang sa Branch 118 (Pasay City); Ana Marie Train Mas alang sa Branch 52 (City of Manila); ug Phoeve Castillo Meer alang sa Branch 275 (Las Pinas City).

Ginganlan sumala pa sa taho isip mga maghuhukom sa  Municipal Trial Court (MTC) sila: Jeoffrey Capina Manluyang (Governor Generoso, Davao Oriental); Maria Eloisa Aray Maglana (Baganga, Davao Oriental); Marie Grace Vaflor Entilla-Eborde (Tupi, South Cotabato); Bai Israhayda Cueto Sinsuat (Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao); Alta Grace Narag Briones (Rosales, Pangasinan); Francisco Orlain Pilpil (Solano, Nueva Vizcaya); ug Debbie Gamotin Dulay-Del Val (Naguilian, La Union).

Gidesignar usab nga mga maghuhukom sa Municipal Trial Court in the Cities (MTCC) sila: Kim Elauria Ortiz-Liquido (Bislig City, Surigao del Sur); Christina Tan haw Tay-Jovero (Cotobato City, Maguindanao); Jeanylene Tolentino Isip-Fukai alang sa Branch 2 - Special Court alang sa mga kaso nga dunay kalabotan sa Election (San Fernando City, La Union); ug Genevieve Dalos Ande-Ewangan alang sa Branch 1 (Santiago City, Isabela).

Lakip nga gitudlo nga mga maghuhukom sa Municipal Circuit Trial Court (MCTC) sila: Cashmere Cashmere Jo-An Augustia Dagsa Zayas-Cruiz (5th MCTC sa Marihatag-San Agustin, Surigao del Sur); Allan Posadas Temones (2nd MCTC sa Caraga-Manay-Tarragona, Davao Oriental); Josie Abu Felipe (6th MCTC sa Surallah-Lake Sebu, South Cotobato); Vicente Valente Imbang (2nd MCTC sa M'lang-Matalam, North Cotobato); Eugene David Rosos Tancino (3rd MCTC sa Kabacan-Carmen, North Cotabato); Angelito Vencer Rasalan (5th MCTC sa Upi-South Upi, Maguindanao); Trinidad Torres Abad-Ferrer (6th MCTC sa Pozorrubio-Sison, Pangasinan); Norbert Bong Sabio Obedoza (Cordon-ngadto sa Dinapique, Isabela); ug Geraldine Balagso Ramos (4th MCTC sa Narvacan-Nagbukel-Santa, Ilocos Sur).

Lakip usab nga gitudlo isip maghuhukom sa 4th Shari'a District Court sa Marawi City, Lanao del Sur si Rasad Sarip Laguindab.

Samtang ang gidesignar sa posisyong Prosecutor IV alang sa Office of the City Prosecutor (OCP) mao sila: Jeremy Suno kay Bionat ug Nestor Ledesma; ug ingon usab nga Prosecutor III sila: Rey Camilo Dumlao II, Elmer Surot, Florida Daquiz-Sta. Maria, Joy Marie Frances Cortes, Janet Palanca, Adri Anne Montes-EspaΓ±ola, si Helen Tenchavez, Isabel Corazon Plaza, Maureen Chua, ug Ating Diacat.

Ginganlan usab isip mga Prosecutor II sa OCP sila: Clarinda Martinez, Jose Jay dela Chica, Michelle Hortiz-Abarintos, Jordan Teano, Raulito Villar, Jhaciel Quicho, Venus Gapuz-Taliman, Dulce Ricafort--Fuller, Jennefer Resurreccion, Carol Salvatierra, Ferdinand Thomas Magallanes, ug Allan Alavanzas; ug sa posisyong Prosecutor I sila: Roberyn Joy Marinas-Navarro, Victor Esteban Benitez, Jennifer Corpuz-de Guzman, Rowena Figueroa, Leni Garcia-Tepace, Marlon Moises, Romel de los Reyes, Rodolfo Lopez, Alexander Eric Leveriza, Sheila Teodora Diaz , Darwin Dimen, ug Ronald Asong.

Ang gitudlo sa posisyong Prosecutor IV alang sa Office sa Regional Prosecutor (ORP) mao si: Kenneth Juan Amamanglon; ug sa posisyong Prosecutor III si Frank Divinagracia, Jr.

Kabahin usab niini ang pagdesignar sa posisyong Prosecutor III alang sa buhatan sa Provincial Prosecutor (OPP) sila: Evangeline Rivera, Raul Campos, Adriano Cabida, Ephraim Tomboc, Arturo Trinidad, Jose de Leon, Jr., Erwin Caparros, Lilibeth Lorena, Ma. Elena Hofilena-Gerochi, ug Richard Abangan, Sr .; sa posisyong Prosecutor II ang mga gitudlo mao ang musonod: Elpidio Bober, Raymund Gultiano, Hedeliza Cruz, Richard Alvin Japson, Rosemarie Ann Polistico, Godfrey Montes, ug Reymund Gunda; og isip Prosecutor I sila: Christobal Balangcod, David Bartolome, Jr., Salvador Arnesto, Farah Joi Frondozo, Rosalito Cimanes, Flora Malate-Pante, Prince Jose Lim, Edwin Docena, Crisolito Tavera, Ahmad Arip, Soteo Gardose, Roel Niya , Jojie Balume, ug Victor Dennis Gemarino.

Subay sa gipagawas nga impormasyon kabahin usab sa mga ubay-ubay nga gitudlo ni Presidente Aquino mitudlo si Danilo Enriquez sa posisyong Director IV alang sa Fair Trade ug Enforcement Bureau sa DTI. (NGBT/PND/PIA Surigao del Sur)

Tuesday, April 21, 2015

ARESCOM commander highlights vital roles of AFP reservists

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, April 21 (PIA) – “I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to all the reservists throughout the country for their unwavering support, dedication, and volunteerism. While it is true that there is little or no compensation at all for your work, I think you will agree with me that participating is more than enough reward for your deeds.”

This was the statement of Brigadier General Paolo Leo Ma Miciano, Commander of the Army Reserve Command (ARESCOM) in the Philippine Army, during the recently concluded 36th National Reservist Week Regional Convention held in one of the local convention centers here.

“The National Reservist Week (NRW) convention is an offshoot to the Presidential Proclamation Number 627 declaring the period from September 3-10 of every year and thereafter as the “AFP National Reservist Week” in order to underscore the importance of reservists in nation-building and socio-economic efforts,” said Miciano.

Miciano also emphasized that said convention "shall remind us always of the specific role that we play which is actually interconnected with one another."

“We, in the regular force realized that we have reliable partners to carry out the implementation of the concepts of Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) Bayanihan, humanitarian assistance disaster relief, socio-economic development, and climate change/environmental protection. As for the reservists, we are truly appreciative of your efforts and hardwork in ensuring that the reserve force is not only an existing organization on paper but as well a moving and growing force that is proactive and effective,” he added.

Miciano further stressed that cooperation and unity among the forces and the citizenry are very important to achieve lasting peace and development. “Let us keep in mind that the Army Reserve Command does not solely operate on its own. It recognizes the fact that it needs the help of other organizations, groups and individuals to accomplish its tasks for the betterment and welfare of the community," Miciano added. (JPG/ PIA-Caraga)


AFP officials celebrate 36th National Reservist Week, honor newly-commissioned reservists

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, April 21 (PIA) – In time with this year’s 36th National Reservist Week Regional Convention, the officials of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) honored the newly-commissioned reservists in Caraga region.

Rear Admiral Aurelio A Rabusa Jr, Deputy Chief of Staff for Reservist and Retiree Affairs, J9 underscored that the celebration primarily intends to give importance to the capabilities of the different reserve units, thereby, addressing also their needs. It also calls all citizens to be part of the armed forces and render services to meet the 80 percent manpower needs of the AFP.

"Our reservist will support in disaster response operations just as they are required to render personal, civil or military duty. It's better that we have to prepare especially in response to national security," emphasized Rabusa.

Rabusa reiterated that the duty of the AFP is to develop our citizenry to take responsibility and join the unit as reservist. They will form part of the non-combatant force to defend families and the country especially during disasters/calamities/war.

Brigadier General Charito B Plaza, Commander of 7th PAF Wing (Reserved) also bared that this is the second time that Butuan City and Caraga region conducted the Regional Convention in line with the National Reservist Week.

"Right now, we have less than 150,000 full-time reservists serving the population in the region. That is why we are inviting the private industries to provide us naval and air assets to be used during calamities and emergencies. We are also inviting the citizens to be part of the armed forces so we can beat the enemies in times of conflict. We also give focus on the welfare of our reservists," Plaza expressed.

Plaza further revealed that as a reservist particularly the enlisted men (non-college graduate), they were given the opportunity to avail of the free education and trainings to learn the skills of a military. “Reservists have no salary during peace time. It is during war-time mission when we are called to active duty that we are entitled for remuneration," she said.

Also, BGen Paolo Leo Ma G Miciano, Commander of Army Reserve Command disclosed that the AFP continues to advocate for more incoming reservists that could extend help to the citizenry in times of disasters/calamities and emergencies.

"I'd like to point out that as far as the AFP is concerned, we are continuously looking for potential reservists from different sectors. Not only in the schools where we trained students in the ROTC program but we also want to train those retirees who want to join the forces, as well as other individuals who already have jobs but want to serve the citizens as reservists," stressed Miciano.

The closing ceremony of said celebration commenced with the entrance of colors by the Caraga State University (CSU) Advance Cadets. BGen Balutan together with other officials from the Philippine Army then led the donning of ranks to newly commissioned Reserved Officers and awarding ceremony. (JPG/VLG, PIA-Caraga)


PhilRice to hold Challenge Field Day, Farmers’ Forum in AgNor

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, April 21 (PIA) – The Philippine Rice (PhilRice) Research Institute is set to hold the “Palayabangan: The 10-5 Challenge Field Day and Farmers’ Forum on April 29, 2015 at the PhilRice’ station in Basilisa, RT Romuladez, Agusan del Norte.

“This event will showcase Palayabangan competition wherein nine leading local and multinational agricultural companies have field set-ups that demonstrate rice technologies and practices to achieve 10 tons yield with P50,000.00 production cost per hectare,” bared Abner Monteclaro, PhilRice Agusan branch director.

Monteclaro also disclosed that these companies will also conduct technology briefings to share their techniques to achieve high yield in lesser cost.

“We have invited some 500 stakeholders which include students, farmers, project implementers, and policy-makers from the three regions under our area of coverage,” added Monteclaro.

For more information, PhilRice Agusan can be reached at telephone number (085) 343-0534. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)


Agnor solon to students: scholarship application now open!

BUTUAN CITY, Apr. 21 (PIA) - Rep. Lawrence "Law" Fortun is delighted to announce the opening and acceptance of scholarship application for the First District of Agusan del Norte (Butuan City and Las Nieves) for academic year 2015-2016.

Interested applicants may now visit the District Constituency Office at 4th Street, Guingona Subd., this city for more information.

The said scholarship program is under the Student Financial Assistance Program (StuFAP) Tulong Dunong program of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) in partnership with the office of Rep. Fortun.

It can be recalled last year that at least 1,810 students coming from the different Barangays in Butuan City and the Municipality of Las Nieves were awarded scholarship grants under the same scheme. An orientation and awarding ceremony was held at the Caraga State University (CSU) Gymnasium on March 20, 2014 and was graced by Rep. Fortun.

For this year, the bulk of the grant availed through the Tulong-Dunong scheme ranges from P12,000 to P6,000, depending on the students’ tuition needs and rank. All applicants of the program were ranked based on the applicant’s latest grade and income bracket. The scheme also prioritizes courses identified by CHED.

For his part, the young solon challenged the students to make good of the assistance they will get from the government since not all has been given the opportunity to avail it.

“Let this grant be one of your tool in attaining success in life, you take advantage of this opportunity and make good in your studies as your way of giving back to your parents their hard work in order to send you to college,” Fortun said.

Deadline for submission of application is on April 30, 2015. (LAWig Katawhan/PIA-Agusan del Norte)


9 police officers, personnel receive awards for accomplishment vs illegal drugs

By Noel B. Najarro

BUTUAN CITY, Apr. 21 (PIA) - Nine police commissioned officers led by a colonel and non-commissioned officers of a southern city police station of the region, were awarded on Monday morning for their significant role in the accomplishment of the campaign against illegal drugs in their area of responsibility.

The awarding ceremony was among the highlights during the Monday flag-raising rites of Camp Rafael C. Rodriguez, the regional headquarters of the Police Regional Office 13. The awardees were PSupt. Reynante N. Sibayton, chief of the Bayugan City Police Station, who received a “Medalya Ng Kagalingan” (PNP Merit Medal) for the successful implementation of search warrant by the joint personnel of the Bayugan City Police and the 13th Regional Criminal Investigation and Detection Unit (13 RCIDU). The joint police operation resulted to the arrest of Asraf Tomarampong Ampaso on April 11, 2015 at Purok 2B, Buri St., Brgy. Taglatawan of the said city. During the raid a sizable volume of “shabu” estimated to weigh 200 grams amounting to P2,360,000.00 was confiscated. Awarded together with Supt. Sibayton for the same medal were PCInsp. Gregorio Cuevas and PO2 Russel M. Serafina.

The recipients of the “Medalya Ng Papuri” (PNP Commendation Medal) was led by PInsp. Joselito F. Delos Santos for the implementation of Search Warrant No. 2015-81 leading to the arrest of Eleazar L. Bahian on April 10, 2015 at  Purok 2C, Brgy. Taglatawan and confiscation of 11 plastic sachets containing suspected drugs with estimated weight of 1.5 grams with total market value of  P17,700.00; assorted drug paraphernalia, a homemade .3516 Caliber revolver, 2 fragmentation grenades and three rifle grenades. Receiving the same medal with Insp. Delos Santos were PO3 Mirofel C. Romano and PO1 Miguel N. Ellaso.

Another recipients of “Medalya Ng Papuri” were led by PInsp. Ian Kidd C. Eblahan for the implementation of Search Warrant No. 2015-82 leading to the arrest of Dylan Sala Caberte on April 10, 2015 at Purok 10, Brgy. Taglatawan of the said city. Seventeen plastic sachets containing suspected shabu with estimated weight of 3.5 grams with a total value of P41,300.00, assorted drug paraphernalia and a unit of Caliber .38 revolver with ammunition. Awarded together with Insp. Eblahan were SPO2 Melvin A. Dandasan and PO1 Taasha Mae Leah C. Ocio.

The awards were pinned to the recipients by PCSupt. Alexander C. Ignacio, PNP Acting Director for Plans, PCSupt. Roberto Q. Soriano, PNP EOD/ K-9 Management Office and PCSupt. David Y. Ombao, Caraga PNP chief. (PNA/PIA-Caraga)


Top Crame officials visit Caraga PRO

By Noel B. Najarro

BUTUAN CITY, Apr. 21 (PIA) - Two senior officials from police national headquarters from Camp Crame, Quezon City arrived on Monday for a command visit at the Caraga police regional headquartes (PRO) here.

Police Chief Superintendent Alexander C. Ignacio, acting director for Plans and Police Chief Police Superintendent Roberto Q. Soriano, Explosives and Ordnance Device (EOD) and K-9 Service Chief of PNP National Headquarters arrived at 7:30 a.m. where they were given the appropriate arrival honors by the Police regional office here headed by PCSupt. David Y. Ombao.

CSupt. Ignacio is here for a command visit, while CSupt. Soriano briefed those who have attended today’s command conference on the updates of the EOD and K-9 services of the PNP, according to PSupt. Martin M. Gamba, the regional police spokesman here.

Ignacio, the guest of honor and speaker during Monday's flag-raising rites reserved the discussion of serious issues and concerns during the command conference with the top regional, provincial and city police officials. He spent most of his time during his message reminiscing on his brief stint (four months and one ambush, he recalls) as the deputy regional director for operations (DRDO) of this police regional office.

It was during the time of Police CSupt. Reynaldo Rafal, Ignacio recalls, that he was among the party of the regional director who was ambushed by an NPA blocking force when they went to Claver to pave the way for one of the then DILG Sec. Jesse Robredo’s regional visit. It was also the time when the NPAs attacked Taganito Mining sometime in October 2011. “A bus shielded us from more serious consequence when it was hit instead by the landmine placed by the rebels along our path.

"Luckily, nobody was hurt during the incident. I’ve been through on some ambuscades during the course of my tour of duties in other places, but that experience here in Caraga was among the most memorable highlights for me,” Ignacio said.

The whole day command conference was spent on discussions about plans and addressing some issues and concerns brought about by the officers and men from the lower units for actions by the offices of the visiting police officials. (PNA/PIA-Caraga)


DTI warns consumers vs sales scam

By Rodrigo R. Matabaran

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Apr. 21 (PIA) - The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Surigao del Norte warns the public anew on sales scam that victimize consumers.

In an advisory, DTI said scams are done in various modes and approaches. Some will offer freebies or ask to pick a prize, but then the victim is required to buy an item to claim such freebies or prizes. Not knowing that the free item’s cost is being lumped into the product or set of products.

"When you encounter being offered by anyone in any place using one or more of these sales promotional techniques, simply say NO!  If you are really interested on the item being offered or sold, be sure to look first for other alternative suppliers that may offer better price before making a decision," said DTI provincial director Celestino Negapatan.

Usually hard selling technique is being used as scammers do their trick not allowing the victims to think as they fall on their prey. If they succeed, the victim/s could be paying for a product or bundle of products more than its true worth.  "And at times upon reaching home, you realize the product is not useful as you are made to believe it is," Negapatan said.

"Think twice before spending your hard-earn money. Always have discernment on the motives of strangers selling products or services, to be able to avoid some nefarious sales schemes," he added.

Negapatan said that it would be wise to buy quality products and deal only with known stores and business establishments instead of ambulant sellers and sales promoters. "To get the best value for your money, be a vigilant and wise consumer," he said.

For interested parties, community groups and associations who want to learn more on consumerism, please feel free to visit the office of Department of Trade and Industry located at the 2ND Floor, Simtoco Building, Burgos Street, Surigao City or contact at telephone number 826-6129. (SDR/DTI-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)


TF Usig reviews 13 cases on record in 5 years

By Noel B. Najarro

BUTUAN CITY, Apr. 21 (PIA) - The Police Regional Office 13 “Task Force USIG” under its new chairperson recently reviewed the cases in its record for the last five years, from 2010 to 2015.

The task force composed of the Regional Investigation and Detective Managenet (RIDM), the Regional Crime Laboratory Office (RCLO) 13 and the 13th Criminal Investigation and Detection Unit (13 RCIDU), under the present chairmanship of PCSupt. Keth Ernald Ll. Singian recorded 13 cases within the said period, according to PSupt. Martin M. Gamba, the regional police chief spokesperson here.

The “Task Force USIG” according to Gamba is tasked by the PNP to investigate and to look into the extra-judicial deaths (EJDs) of media personalities, militant party list members, leftist activists and deaths of foreign nationals (DFNs).

Gamba said that of the recorded 13 cases by the said task force within the aforesaid period which were reviewed during a recent meeting at the “TF USIG Conference Room” of the regional police headquarters here; two cases have already been solved, seven cases were cleared and four are now under investigation.

The solved cases (cases filed in court and the suspects or some were arrested) were the killings of two foreign nationals, the Canadian Harry Joseph Alfred Dever Doyle, who was killed in the afternoon of August 12, 2012 at Palma Beach, Brgy. Punta, Bilar in Surigao City. Four suspects were pinpointed by the police of which two were arrested Jeffrey Parian alias “Opok” and Jerome Tanora Devocion, while two are still at-large Jhonny Parian and Erma “Jane” Undang Doyle. A case for “Murder/Parricide” was filed in court against the suspects docketed under NPS Docket No. XIII-05-INV-12H-00299 on August 30, 2012 under Criminal Cases Nos. 10175 and 10176 and an arrest warrant issued against them on August 15, 2013.

Another case was that of a Korean businessman Hong Jou Seo, who was killed in the evening of January 24, 2011 at Sitio Uguban, Purok 7, Brgy. Marfil in Rosario, Agusan del Sur. Three suspects were arrested in connection with the said incident, Jerson U. Agripo, Eliseo V. Labe and Caesar V. Labe. A case for “Robbery with Homicide” was filed against the suspects under Criminal Case No. 7301 on July 28, 2011.

The seven cleared cases (cases were filed in court, the suspects were identified but are still at-large) included that of the killings of Leonardo Amper Civil and Ronald Octavio Civil on June 22, 2011 at Sitio Sinug-ang, Bayugan 3, Rosario in Agusan del Sur. Four suspects were identified by the police in connection of the incident, a certain Willie B. Sabordo alias “Commander Thata” allegedly of the CPP-NPA under Southeastern Command (SECOM 14) and three “John Does”  now charged with “Murder” under Criminal Case No. 7556 on September 23, 2011; the case of Datu Ronald L. Manhumusay, Sr. a rebel returnee, former Chairperson of the Kilusang Nagkahiusang Minoriya (KNM), Mindanao Allied Forces (MAF) and Tribal Coalition of Mindanao (TRICOM). Manhumusay, Sr.; who was killed in the morning of September 10, 2011 at Purok 3, Brgy. Tagcatong, Carmen, Agusan del Norte.

Four suspects were pointed out by the PNP, Lino Namatidong, a.k.a. “Dahoy/Tasyo,” Nay-una Pinakilid, a.k.a. “Aloy,” Rolando Barangan a.k.a. “Benzar,” and Crisanto Ligayna a.k.a. “Jr/Santo” alleged NPAs and still at-large.  Appropriate case was filed with NPS-XIII-02-INV-111-0083 dated September 23, 2011 with Criminal Case No. 7731 dated June 29, 2012; the case of Datu Roy Q. Gallego, a Supreme Datu known as “Bagtikan” and President of Bayanihan Council of Datus (BACODA), killed on the afternoon of October 14, 2011 at the National Highway of Sitio Mamprasanon, Brgy. Banahaw, Lianga, Surigao del Sur. Two suspects, a certain Hildo Tejero and a John Doe was pointed by the police as the perpetrator but are still at-large. Appropriate cases were filed at the court with NPS-XIII-07c 12ab-00022, dated February 8, 2012 with Criminal Case No. 5202 dated June 18, 2012.

Then there was the case of two Indian nationals Manjeet Singh and Sukhwnider Singh, involved in “Lending” money also known as “5/6”, killed in the morning of November 15, 2011 at Purok 5, Poblacion Trento, Agusan del Sur. Two suspects were believed to be the perpetrators identified by the police as Edmark Domingo alias “Edong” and a John Doe who are still at-large, charged with “Double Murder”; docketed under NPS No. 13-03-INV-11K-258 on November 21, 2011 and Criminal Case No.7731 on June 29, 2012; Ogon Jansoe, a Danish national, on December 19, 2012 at Brgy. San Teodoro, Bunawan, Agusan del Sur. Four suspects were pointed out by the police identified as Nilo P. Amador, alias Jun Equila, Roger B. Tuyor and a John Doe who are still at-large.

They are charged with “Murder” and “Frustrated Murder” under NPS No. 13-03-INV-11K-258 on April 24, 2013 and Criminal Case No. 7971; the case a businessman Kamlesh Kumar G. Hariramani in the morning of August 5, 2013 at Obediza St.; Brgy. 2, San Francisco, Agusan del Sur. A suspect was identified as a certain Reynante Llandino, who is still at-large. Suspect is charged with “Murder” at the Office of the Provincial Posecutor, Patin-ay, Prosperidad in Agusan del Sur docketed under No. 13-03-INV-13-202 on September 2, 2013 and Criminal Case No. 8085 dated January 10, 2014; and that of a Swish national killed on October 7, 2014 at Brgy. Togbungon, Surigao City.

Suspects were identified by the police as Arnaud Mcfly a.k.a “Nono Gerald/John Lennon/Arnaud Oliver Juvet” and some John Does and Jane does, all at-large. They are charged with “Murder” at the Office of City Prosecutor docketed under NPS No.XIII-05-INV-14J-00431 dated October 16, 2014.

The cases under investigation were that of Leonardo I. Behing, alias “Andot”; a leader of the Lumadnong Pakigbisog sa Caraga (LUPACA) on July 31, 2010 at Purok 5, Brgy. Padiay, Sibagat, in Agusan del Sur. The suspects were believed to be lawless armed group or CPP-NPAs.

The police are probing into the victim’s alleged involvement in the hostage-taking of DENR personnel at Brgy. Anticala, Butuan City on October 21, 2009. He reportedly has a standing arrest warrant before his death for Kidnapping under Criminal Case No. 13906 issued by Judge Edgar Manilag of RTC Branch 33, Libertad, this city; the case of Renato P. Deliguer and Agustito D. Ladera allged members of the New People’s Army who were shot and killed on September 2, 2010 at Pinagdayonan, Palonpon, Mahaba, Marihatag in Surigao del Sur by still unidentified group; the killings of Balvinderl Singh Sarjit and Tejinderpal Singh Sarjit who were allegedly involved in “Lending” or “5’6” killed on May 12, 2010 at the Public Market of Poblacion Trento in Agusan del Sur by an unidentified group and Ciang Hu Liu, a Chinese national and Rizzel Caumpay De Cruz on April 25, 2014 at Purok 1, Brgy. Bugas-bugas, Placer in Surigao del Norte, also by still unidentified group.

Gamba said that there were no reported killings of media personality within the said period. (PNA/PIA-Caraga)


Skills training on coco products benefits DOFWA members

By Jean Mary Ronquillo

BUTUAN CITY, Apr. 21 (PIA) - Eyeing the bountiful resources of coconut in Dapa, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte as a potential source of revenue for OFW Family Circle in the area, a three-day Skills Training on Coco Sugar Processing and other Coco Products was conducted at Dapa Women’s Center last April 14-16, 2015.

The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA-RWO13) in coordination with the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) Surigao del Norte field office facilitated the training which benefited some 35 members of Dapa Overseas Filipino Workers Association (DOFWA).

Roselyn Dagsa, DOFWA President, expressed her appreciation to OWWA for providing their organization a skills training which has given them possible products they can showcase in their envisioned “Pasalubong Center” near the Port of Dapa.

Among their finished products were coco sugar, virgin coconut oil, coco vinegar and sauce, and other coco food products. 

“We really learned a lot from the training which at first we have no idea of what could be the output. It was such a blessing in disguise for us here,” conveyed Dagsa in local dialect.

In his message, OWWA Caraga regional director Samuel Madrid encouraged the participants to use what they learned in the daily practice. He likewise commended the DOFWA members for their effort of putting up their organization and hoped that in the long run the organization will attain its sufficiency.

“Maganda itong serbisyo na binigay ng pamahalaan upang kayo’y mabigyan ng sapat na kaalaman para masupplement at maimprove pa ang inyong nalalaman,” bared Madrid.

He also inspired them to avail of other government services that can assist and improve the organization.

“Mapalad kayong mga dependents of OFWs and OFWs because you have exclusive access sa OWWA pero hindi kayo excluded sa programs and services ng ibang agency,” added Madrid.

Moreover, the awarding of certificates for Skills Training graduates was held during the DOLE-RCC activity in Dapa, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte on Friday, April 17, graced by the presence of DOLE secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz together with Surigao del Norte 1st district representative Francisco Matugas and governor Sol Matugas. (OWWA-13/PIA-Caraga)


Tagalog News: Palasyo binigyang diin ang pangangailangan ng pagsasakatuparan ng programang K to 12

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur, Abril 21 (PIA) - Inulit-ulit ng Palasyo ang pangangailangan ng pagsakatuparan ng K to 12 na pangunahing programang pang-edukasyon para mapalago ang kakayahan ng mga manggagawang Pilipino sa pandaigdigang ekonomiya.

“Kailangang-kailangan ang pagpapatupad nito upang mapanatili at matiyak ang competitiveness ng mga Pilipino sa global economy,” sabi ni Communication Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. sa isang panayam sa medya sa Malakanyang.

“Tayo na lang po ang isa sa iilang bansa na hindi pa nagkakaroon ng globally accepted basic education program na labing-dalawang taon dahil ang ating basic education program na papalitan nitong K to 12 ay 10 years lamang,” puna niya.

Dagdag pa ni Coloma na maraming pagpilian ang ginawa na maaring makuha ng mga guro na maapektuhan pagmaipatupad na ang programa sa darating na akademikong taon.

“Kung gusto nilang tumigil na sa pagseserbisyo, merong inilalaang mga benepisyo sa kanila na naaayon sa batas. Kung gusto naman nilang mag-training, meron ding opportunity for retraining na ibibigay. Kaya nga mainam na pagkakataon ito na mag-level up din sila sa kanilang skills development habang isinasagawa ang transition,” sabi niya.

Sabi ni Coloma na sa mga darating na ilang araw, ang kCabinet education cluster, na kinabibilangan ng Kalihim ng Edukasyon Armin Luistro, Director-General ng Technical Education and Skills Development Authority Joel Villanueva, Commission on Higher Education Commissioner Cynthia Bautista at iba pang opisyal ay magbibigay ng marami pang detalyadong impormasyon na siyang sasagot sa mga pagkabalisa na inihain ng ibang grupo tungkol sa implementasyon ng programa.

“Tinitiyak lamang na ang lahat ay ginagawa upang maibsan ang epekto nito sa mga guro at sa mga mag-aaral; at tinitiyak din na lahat ng nararapat ay ginagawa para maging maayos ang pag-transition natin sa K to 12,” sabi niya.

Ayon sa Departamento ng Edukasyon, ang Pilipinas ay siyang pinakahuling bansa sa Asya at isa sa tatlo lamang na bansa sa buong mundo (kasama na ang Angola at Djibouti) na mayroong 10 taong pre-university cycle.

Sabi ng Departamento, ang programang 12 taon ay nakitaan na pinakamabuti para sa pag-aqaral sa ilalim ng basikong edukasyon at kinikilalang pamantayan para sa mga pandaigdingan estudyante at propesyonal.

Isang koalisyon ng mga guro, mga hindi nagtuturong kawani, mga magulang at grupo ng mga manggagawa ay nagpakitang gustong itigil ang implementasyon ng K to 12, at nagsabing hindi nito naprotektahan ang mga guro at non-teaching personnel na maaring maapektuhan kapag naipatupad na ang programa. (DMS/PIA-Agusan del Sur)


Cebuano News: Palasyo mianunsyo sa pagtudlo sa kanhi gobernador sa Cavite isip miyembro sa PCSO Board of Directors

SURIGAO DEL SUR, Abril 21 (PIA) – Si kanhi Cavite Gobernador Erineo Maliksi gikatahong gitudlo ingon nga sakop sa Board of Directors sa Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) ug ginominar isip Chairman sa Board, kini ang gibutyag sa Palasyo kagahapon, adlaw nga Lunes.

Subay sa taho, gikompirma ni Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr.  nga ang pagtudlo kang Maliksi gipirmahan ni Presidente Benigno S. Aquino III niadtong Biyernes (Abril 17).

Siya ang muhulip sa kang Margarita P. Juico isip PCSO Chairman.

Sumala pa, nga si Maliksi nag-alagad ingon nga gobernador sa Cavite sulod sa tulo ka termino gikan sa tuig 2001 ngadto sa 2010. Siya usab nag-alagad ingon nga representante sa probinsya alang sa duha ka lain pa nga termino gikan sa tuig 1998 ngadto sa 2001 ug gikan sa 2010 ngadto sa 2013.

Siya usab gikatahong mayor sa Imus, Cavite gikan sa tuig 1988 ngadto sa 1998.

Kalabot pa niini, siya migradwar gikan sa University of the East sa tuig 1969 uban sa usa ka degree sa Political Science. (NGBT/PIA Surigao del Sur)


Cebuano News: Palasyo misubli sa kamahinungdanon sa pagpatuman sa K to 12

SURIGAO DEL SUR, Abril 21 (PIA) - Ang Palasyo misubli kung unsa kamahinungdanon ang pagpatuman sa programa sa K to 12 basic education sa pagpalambo sa competitiveness sa mga Filipino workforce sa global nga ekonomiya.

“Gikinahanglan ang pagpatuman niini aron magpabilin og masiguro ang competitiveness sa mga Pilipino sa ekonomiyang global (Kailangang-kailangan ang pagpapatupad nito upang mapanatili at matiyak ang competitiveness ng mga Pilipino sa global economy),” kini ang gisulti ni Communication Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. atol sa usa ka press briefing nga gipahigayon didto sa Malakanyang kagahapon.

“Kita na lamang ang usa sa mga pipila ka mga nasud ang wala pa makadawat og programa sa globally accepted basic education nga adunay dose ka-tuig tungod kay ang atoang programa sa basic education nga paga hulipan niining K to 12 adunay napulo (10) ka tuig lamang (Tayo na lang po ang isa sa iilang bansa na hindi pa nagkakaroon ng globally accepted basic education program na labing-dalawang taon dahil ang ating basic education program na papalitan nitong K to 12 ay 10 years lamang),” siya miigon.

Si secretary Coloma midugang sa pag ingon nga adunay mga kapilian nga itanyag sa mga magtutudlo nga apektado sa nahisgutang programa sa pagpatuman niini sa umaabot nga academic year.

Kung gusto nila nga muondang sa pagpanerbisyo, adunay gitagana nga mga benepisyo alang kanila nga gipasubay sa balaod. Kung gusto pod nila nga mag training, duna pod ubay ubay nga oportunidad nga ihatag. Mas nindot kini nga oportunidad nga mag level-up usab sila sa ilahang mga kahanas nga molambo samtang gipahigayon ang transisyon. (Kung gusto nilang tumigil na sa pagseserbisyo, merong inilalaang mga benepisyo sa kanila na naaayon sa batas. Kung gusto naman nilang mag-training, meron ding opportunity for retraining na ibibigay. Kaya nga mainam na pagkakataon ito na mag-level up din sila sa kanilang skills development habang isinasagawa ang transition),” si Coloma miingon.

Dugang pa ni Coloma nga sa sunod nga pipila ka mga adlaw, ang Cabinete education cluster, nga gilangkoban nila ni Education Secretary Armin Luistro, Technical Education ug Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Director General Joel Villanueva, Commission on Higher Education Commissioner Cynthia Bautista, ug sa ubang mga opisyal, gikatahong mobutyag sa dugang pang mga detalyado nga impormasyon kon unsaon sa pagsulbad sa mga problema nga gipasaka sa pipila ka mga sekta kabahin sa gikatahong pagpatuman sa maong programa.

“Gipaniguro lamang nga ang tanan gibuhat aron mapakunhod ang epekto niini sa mga magtutudlo ug sa mga estudyante; ug usab sa pagsiguro nga ang tanan nga angayan nga buhaton aron mamaayo ang transisyon sa atong K to 12 (Tinitiyak lamang na ang lahat ay ginagawa upang maibsan ang epekto nito sa mga guro at sa mga mag-aaral; at tinitiyak din na lahat ng nararapat ay ginagawa para maging maayos ang pag-transition natin sa K to 12),” siya miingon.

Dugang pa niini, ang Departamento sa Edukasyon mibutyag nga ang Pilipinas mao ang katapusan nga nasud sa Asya, ug usa sa tulo lang ka nasud sa tibuok kalibutan (uban sa Angola ug sa Djibouti), nga adunay napulo katuig sa pre-university cycle.

Dugang pa sa departamento nga ang 12 katuig nga programa nakaplagan nga ang labing maayo nga panahon sa pagkat-on ubos sa basic nga edukasyon ug ang giila nga sumbanan alang sa mga estudyante ug sa mga propesyonal sa tibuok kalibutan.

Sa laing bahin, usa ka koalisyon sa mga magtutudlo, non-teaching staff, mga ginikanan ug mga labor group ang nagtinguha sa pagpahunong sa implementasyon sa K to 12 nga programa, miingon nga kini napakyas sa pagpanalipod sa mga magtutudlo ug non-teaching staff nga maapektuhan kon magsugod na ang programa. (NGBT/PND/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Monday, April 20, 2015

FSUU studes sing ‘a capella version’ of PIA Mindanao mobile app jingle

By Febjan Mariah J. Melendres

BUTUAN CITY, April 20 (PIA) - Communication students from the Father Saturnino Urios University (FSUU) here have been tapped to compose and record the PIA Mindanao mobile app jingle titled Minda-NOW.

The jingle, which is in a capella version, was first played over Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga’s radio station 107.8MHz Power FM around 4:00 p.m. Monday.

 “It is a great privilege for us to be tapped by PIA Caraga to compose the song that will be used in the agency’s mobile app promotion,” shared singer and composer duo Lacheln Rafallo and David Mabalcon, both third year Communication students.

"The song is about seeing the peace and opportunities of Mindanao despite its present conflicts," Rafallo said. "It's about time to unite each and everyone in Mindanao," she added.

Rafallo and Mabalcon's singing prowess was first heard during their on-the-job orientation at PIA Caraga regional office here. PIA Caraga regional director Abner Caga who seems to be captivated by their voices insisted that they should sing the jingle for the mobile app.

“Their unique voices are perfect for our promotional campaign,” said Caga.

The PIA Mindanao mobile application, formerly PIA Caraga mobile app, is the first and distinct mobile app in the country that caters local news and updates per region in Mindanao through the use of smartphones, tablets and iPads.

The mobile app jingle can now be heard in all PIA’s Advanced Forward Emergency Broadcast System (AFEBS) affiliate network stations and 107.8 MHz Power FM. (FEAbkilan/PIA-Caraga)


Cabadbaran celebrates Friday JAM finale

By David Mabalcon

BUTUAN CITY, Apr. 20 (PIA) - The city of Cabadbaran in the province of Agusan del Norte celebrated its Friday Jam finale, an activity intended to combat drug influence among young Cabadbaranons.

The event, which was launched on December 12, 2014, is an initiative of the city government under the leadership of city mayor Dale B. Corvera. Since then it operated every Friday for four months educating young people about drugs while entertaining them with Christian contemporary songs from different bands. The finale performance held on Friday, Apri 17 featured the following bands: Vantage Point, Captured Band, G Soldiers, JM 45, D'MECC and, Higalas.

"Because of the widespread illegal use of drugs nowadays, some of the young Cabadbaranons were not spared from using illegal drugs. That is why the local government conducted an activity like this [Friday Jam] to help and prevent the young people of Cabadbaran on drug influence," said Friday Jam chairman Pastor Philip Sandy P. Gonzales.

Kathyrain Olaer, a Communication student of Xavier University and a Friday Jam volunteer, said that she is very happy to be a part of the event. Olaer also said that she is sad knowing that Friday Jam has finally reached to an end but she is hopeful that the local government would again make an activity like Friday Jam.

However, Gonzales revealed that the city government has already plans in conducting a similar activity in the near future. (PIA-Caraga)


AgNor holds provincial orientation on HIV/AIDS

By Lacheln O. Rafallo

BUTUAN CITY, April 20 (PIA) - The province of Agusan del Norte in partnership with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) held a one-day orientation on Human Immonudeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) on Friday at the Provincial Training Center here.

It was learned that the orientation was held in response to the Memorandum Circular sent by DILG Department Secretary Mar Roxas on the purpose of “strengthening local responses toward more effective and sustained responses to HIV and AIDS”.

On the orientation, a general report on HIV/AIDS was discussed showing an increase of 1,038 percent in new HIV cases in six years (from 2008 to 2014).

“With this alarming situation, we are obliged to trigger local actions. This is everyone’s concern,” said Board Member Rey Jamboy, chairperson on Health and Sanitation.

Topics on HIV/AIDS 101, the legal bases or the salient features of Republic Act 8504, the creation and functions of the local HIV/AIDS councils, and related programs, celebrations, program partners and best practices were discussed to “create awareness and kick-start the combat against HIV/AIDS,” said Jamboy.

The event was attended by the local officials from the different municipalities and non-government organizations in the province in support to the strategies to mitigate the negative impacts of HIV/AIDS in the locality. (PIA-Caraga)


TESDA-Caraga is ISO 9001:2008 certified

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, Apr. 20 (PIA) – Together with the 16 regional offices nationwide, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)-Caraga is now an ISO 9001:2008-certified government agency of the Philippines.

During the awarding ceremony held Monday at MalacaΓ±ang Palace, TESDA Sec. Emmanuel Joel Villanueva received the certification together with Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz and other TESDA officials in the presence of President Benigno S. Aquino III, making all regional offices and 81 provincial offices internationally-certified.

In a press statement of TESDA Media Affairs Office, the agency's major regulatory mandate of program registration and assessment and certification have been certified by a German-affiliated company – the TUV-SUD PSB Philippines, Inc., an external and independent quality management agency, and the agency's third party certification body.

With this certification, TESDA becomes the second agency under the executive branch which has a nationwide ISO Certification.  The Department of Health was the first agency that received the prestigious status on December 18, 2013. It is the first and only education agency which was ISO certified.

On October 23, 2014, an Auditor from TUV SUD PSB has audited TESDA-Agusan del Norte Provincial Office and during the closing meeting later that day, the provincial office was recommended for Certification.

With the international certificate that the agency has received, Dir. Sunico has instructed personnel from all Operating Units of the region to improve the delivery of services to the clients, saying that the public are now expecting more from TESDA.

“Because of this international certificate we had with ISO, the people are expecting much from us. Thus, we should have to live to their expectations,” Dir. Sunico said.

Meanwhile, Braulio B. Dela PeΓ±a of TESDA-Agusan del Sur has sworn-into office as the full-fledge Provincial Director before Sec. Villanueva at the MalacaΓ±ang Palace on the same day when the ISO Certification was awarded.

Prior to his appointment, Dela PeΓ±a was the Chief of the Regional Operations Division (ROD) in the Regional Office. (TESDA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)


Dragoon troopers spearhead medical mission in Agsur town

ESPERANZA, Agusan del Sur, April 20 (PIA) - The 8th Special Forces “Dragoons” Company (8SFC) under the 3rd Special Forces Battalion, Special Forces Regiment (Airborne), Special Operations Command, Philippine Army on Saturday conducted a medical mission in Barangay Tag-anahaw, this municipality in order to extend medical, dental and civic action program (MEDCAP).

The program is in coordination with the local government units of Esperanza, Bayugan City and San Luis, all in this province. The outreach program is also participated by the regional office of the Department of Health Caraga Region,  Philippine Red Cross (PRC) and the Caraga Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council.

Record shows that 165 residents availed of the free medical and dental consultations, free medicines, circumcision, haircut, and while the PRC conducted bloodletting. To further entertain the public, the army also performed electrifying dance during the intermissions.

The activity, according to the 8SFC, is part of the contribution of the entire AFP implementation of the Internal Peace and Security Plan-Bayanihan wherein the military’s role is to catalyze various government agencies to craft and conduct developmental programs that will benefit underserved communities and promote peace.

 “Peace is everyone’s responsibility. We (the military) cannot achieve peace and order alone, but rather, it must be a collaborative effort between other units and the civil citizens as well. We reach out to the public in order for them to see that we are sincere in our peace effort because we have experienced that we had enough of the bloodshed. We look forward for the rebels in Agusan to peacefully lay down their arms and live a peaceful life with their families,” Capt. Jesus Rosete, Commanding Officer of the 8SFC said.

The 8th Special Forces Company is currently deployed at Purok 11, Sitio Manilapas, Poblacion, Esperanza, Agusan del Sur. (DMS/8SFC-Civil-Military Operations Office/PIA-Agusan del Sur)


Former natural born citizen can now avail business name registration

By Rodrigo R. Matabaran

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Apr. 20 (PIA) - A natural born citizen who has lost their Philippine citizenship but now resides in the Philippines shall be granted the same rights as Filipino citizens.

The right is provided under Section 4 of Republic Act (RA) 8762 otherwise known as the Retail Trade Liberalization Act of 2000.

Former natural born citizens who became citizens of another country and are now residing in the Philippines are encouraged to invest in the retail industry.

The purpose of the government is to attract productive investments in the sector thereby promoting consumer welfare and possible bring down prices as more business payers operate in a particular locality.

Under Rule 2 Section 2 of RA 8762, any person who meets the requirements shall be considered as a Filipino citizen upon showing any of the following documents: 1. Copy of the birth certificate (i) certified by the local civil registrar or the National Statistics Authority (NSO) now the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), or for those born abroad, certificate of birth from appropriate agency of the country where the birth is recorded showing the father or mother to be a Filipino or has not lost his/her Philippine citizenship at the time of applicant’s birth, or those born on or before 17 January 1973 of Filipino Mothers must submit all of the following: certified true copies of his/her sworn statement of election of Filipino citizenship, oath of allegiance from the civil registrar where the documents were filled and/or forwarded, and identification certificate issued by the Bureau of Immigration; and 2.  In case of loss and/ or destruction of the record of birth or non-registration of birth, a(i) Certificate of non- availability of birth certificate on accounts of loss and/or destruction of birth record at the office of the civil registrar and/or appropriate government agency if birth was registered abroad; or (ii) copy of birth certificate of mother or father certified by the local civil registrar or PSA; and (iii) affidavit of two disinterested persons attesting to their personal knowledge that at the time of two disinterested persons attesting to their personal knowledge that at the time of applicant’s birth, the child was born of a Filipino mother or father.

For interested parties who want to register their business names, please feel free to visit the Department of Trade and Industry at the 2nd Floor, Simtoco Building, Burgos Street, this city or contact telephone number 826-6129. (SDR/DTI-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)


Top NPA leader arrested in Caraga — AFP

CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City - A top New People's Army (NPA) leader was arrested in Surigao City by joint elements of the intelligence units and 29th Infantry Battalion of the 4th Infantry Division (29IB, 4ID) and the Surigao del Norte Criminal Investigation and Detection Team (CIDT), an AFP official said Monday.

In a press release, 4ID spokesperson Maj. Christian Uy said Bonifacio Mausisa Platil Alias Ka Thaddeus Anob Uray/Tado/Tansyong/Jeffrey, was arrested by virtue of warrant of arrest with an outstanding criminal case number 10951 (multiple attempted murder); criminal case number 4463 (attempted murder); and criminal case number 3552 (murder).

He said, Platil, second deputy secretary of Sub-Regional Command Sentro De Grabidad “Westland” (SRC Westland) under the North Eastern Mindanao Committee, was arrested at around 4:40 p.m., April 19 at Barangay Luna in Surigao City.

Uy said that Platil was responsible for the killings, economic sabotages, and land minings in Sibagat and Bayugan City in Agusan del Sur; RT Romuladez and Cabadbaran City in Agusan del Norte; and eastern part of Butuan City.

4ID commander Major General Oscar Lactao congratulated the soldiers and the CIDG personnel for arresting one of the brains of terroristic activities in Caraga, "a fugitive of the law, and destroyer of hopes of thousand Filipinos in Caraga. For those who were victimized especially those who were killed by this criminal, we are one step closer in achieving justice.”

“I thanked the people for giving us timely and relevant information on the whereabouts of this criminal,” Lactao added.

Platil was brought to Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) in Butuan City for proper disposition. (FEA/Capt. JPMartinez, 4ID/PIA-Caraga)


Cebuano News: Palasyo mipahibalo sa ipahigayon nga “Balikatan exercises"

SURIGAO DEL SUR, Abril 20 (PIA) – Ang Palasyo mipahibalo nga pagasugdan na ang Balikatan exercises tali sa armadong kusog sa Pilipinas ug sa Estados Unidos nga nagtumong sa pagpalambo sa kaandam sa parehong armadong kusog batok sa bisan unsa nga hagit.

"Lunes, ika-20 sa Abril pormal na nga pagasugdan sa Pilipinas og Estados Unidos ang 10 ka adlaw nga Balikatan exercises, (Lunes, ika-20 ng Abril pormal na sisimulan ng Pilipinas at Estados Unidos ang sampung araw na Balikatan exercises)," si Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. miingon atol sa pakighinabi sa radio kagahapon, adlaw’ng Dominggo.

“Kini ang ika-31 nga edisyon ng Balikatan gikan pa sa unang pagpahigayon niini niadtong 1951, pinasubay sa Mutual Defense Treaty tali sa Pilipinas og Estados unidos (Ito ang ika-31 edisyon ng Balikatan mula nang ito’y sinimulang isagawa noong 1951, alinsunod sa Mutual Defense Treaty sa pagitan ng Pilipinas at Estados Unidos)," siya miingon sa dzRB Radyo Ng Bayan.

Ang Pilipinas og ang Estados Unidos, pinaagi sa defense agreement, padayon nga mag-uban sa pagtrabaho aron sa pagpalambo sa kaandam sa ilang mga kasundalohan nga nagtumong sa pagseguro sa rehiyonal nga kalig-on ug seguridad (The Philippines and the U.S., through the defense agreement, continue to work together to enhance the readiness of their forces aimed at ensuring regional stability and security), si Coloma miingon.

"Ang kaandaman sa pagpahigayon sa hinanaling pagtubag sa mga krisis human milusad ang kalamidad  usa usab nga mahinungdanong aspeto sa kooperasyon (Ang kahandaan sa paglulunsad ng agarang pagtugon sa mga krisis bunsod ng mga kalamidad ay isa ring mahalagang aspeto ng kooperasyon)," dugang pa ni Coloma.

Ang mga Pilipino ug Amerikanong sundalo dili lamang sa pagpahigayon sa military drills apan usab lakip na niini ang pagtukod sa mga eskwelahan ingon man nga mohatag og mga serbisyo sa komunidad diin ipahigayon ang Balikatan exercises.

Sumala pa sa taho, nga ang mga sundalo mopahigayon og mga training ug mga seminar alang sa unang mga moresponde alang sa “community health nursing,” komon nga mga sakit sa panahon sa kalamidad, ug himsog nga estilo sa kinabuhi aron sa pagtabang sa mga katawhan diha sa lokal nga komunidad.

Si Coloma usab miingon nga sumala sa Department of National Defense (DND), ingon nga kabahin sa programa sa Humanitarian Assistance ug Disaster Relief, ang parehong Pilipino ug Amerikanong armadong kusog nga pwersa mopahigayon sa structural assessment sa dunggoanan (seaport) ug mga tugpahanan (airports) sa Capiz, Aklan, ug Iloilo, diin gikatahong nadaot sa bagyong Yolanda . (NGBT/PND/PIA-Surigao del Sur)


Cebuano News: DOH mitutok sa tinuoray nga kampanya batok sa HIV-AIDS

SURIGAO DEL SUR, Abril 20 (PIA) - Ang departamento sa panglawas kon Department of Health (DOH) agresibo nga mopahigayon sa impormasyon nga kampanya sa pagpataas sa kasayuran mahitungod sa “human immunodeficiency virus-acquired immune deficiency syndrome (HIV-AIDS) nga nahimong usa ka gikabalak-an sa nasud.

Sumala pa sa DOH nga kini nakaalarma tungod sa padayon ang pagsaka sa gidaghanon sa mga infections sa matag tuig, nga kon kini magapadayon mamahimong lisud na mapug-ngan. Ang departamento miingon nga ang maong impeksiyon mas hataas ang posibilidad sa mga lalake nga dunay sekswal nga kontak uban sa mga lalake.

"Kalabot usab sa HIV nga kaso, isip pagtugon diha, gipahugtan sa Department of Health ang paghimo sa kampanyang pang-impormasyon aron mamahimo nga mag-igmat ang mga katawhan batok sa mga hinungdan o gigikanan sa maong HIV virus (Tungkol muna doon sa HIV cases, bilang pagtugon diyan, pinaiigting ng Department of Health ang pagsasagawa ng kampanyang pang-impormasyon upang maging maingat ang mga mamamayan laban sa mga sanhi o pinanggagalingan ng pagkakaroon ng HIV virus)," sulti ni Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. sa usa ka pakighinabi sa radio niadtong Dominggo.

"Mihatag usab og serbisyong HIV testing og counseling ang DOH isip tabang sa mga katawhan (Naghahatid din ng serbisyong HIV testing at counseling ang DOH bilang tulong sa mga mamamayan)," sumala pa ni Coloma sa pakighinabi sa dzRB Radyo Ng Bayan diin siya gipangutana kabahin sa gihimong pagresponde sa gobyerno sa maong sakit.

Si Coloma usab mikomentaryo sa pagdaghan sa bag-o nga klase nga druga, ang "liquid ecstasy," nga gikataho nga mamahimong ilado sa mga batan-ong drug users.

Matud pa ni Coloma nga ang National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) mipahigayon og operasyon aron nga mapugngan ang paghimo ug ang pamaligya sa maong illegal nga droga.


"Ang PDEA og ang tanang hintungdang mga ahensiya mipasidaan sa paggamit sa maong iligal nga droga (ang PDEA (Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency) at lahat ng mga kinauukulang ahensya ay nagbababala sa paggamit ng iligal na drogang ito)," siya miingon. (NGBT/ PND/PIA-Surigao del Sur)