Wednesday, June 10, 2015

2015 Naliyagan Festival: A week-long festivity featuring the Agusan culture

By David M. Suyao

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur, June 10 (PIA) - The 23rd annual Naliyagan Festival will again bring a week-long sparkles day and night in the Naliyagan Cultural Center here featuring the Agusanon culture and the display of colorful tradition and hospitality.

The grand opening on June 12, 2015 will start at 5:00 a.m. with an Ecumenical Dawn Prayer right at the Naliyagan Cultural Center (NCC) ground. Featuring the Agusanon culture, the “Panawagtawag,” an Agusanon ritual will follow where native priests will call on good spirits to join and bless the week-long celebration, to be followed by the simultaneous holy mass at 6:00 a.m. in all parish churches provincewide.

The opening day of the festival is also the grand celebration of the 117th Philippine Independence Day.

After the concelebrated mass at the Saint Vincent Parish just across the Naliyagan Cultural Center, wreath-laying by Gov. Adolph Edward Plaza with the entire officialdom of the provincial government and the two congressional representatives of Agusan del Sur, Cong. Maria Valentina Plaza (District I), and Cong. Evelyn Plaza Mellana, (District II) will take place at the Jose Rizal monument with 21 gun salute by the Philippine Army led by 401st Brigade Commander Col. Alexander Macario as initial gesture of the Philippine Independence Day celebration.

Right after the wreath laying ceremony, the Philippine National Flag will be raised by the two congressional representatives, Cong. Plaza (District I), and Cong. Mellana, (District II), Gov. Plaza with DILG Provincial Director Arleen Sanchez and Col. Macario. Vice Governor Santiago Cane Jr. with the members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan will raise the provincial flag, then the hoisting of the city/municipal flags by the city/municipal mayors will follow. The Naliyagan flag will be hoisted last by former governor and Moral Recovery Program chairperson Valentina Plaza.

The grand opening of the 23rd Naliyagan Festival will be opened by an ecumenical prayer by the different religious leaders to be followed by the welcome address of Vice Gov. Cane, then the messages of the two congressional representatives.

Gov. Plaza will then deliver his message and declare the formal opening of the Naliyagan Festival 2015. After the declaration, balloons will be released together with the fleeing of doves as symbol of independence.

After Gov. Plaza declares the opening of the Naliyagan Festival,  the opening of the Naliyagan Trade, Services and Entertainment Center will follow showcasing Agusanon’s bests.

The opening day of the Naliyagan Festival is expected to be fun. Today, the Gov. Eddiebong Plaza men’s tennis cup will take place at the Gov. D.O. Plaza Government Center grounds and the Day of the Tribong Agusanon. In the evening, everybody can witness the Naliyagan Cultural Show, the Naliyagan Party Jam sponsored by Cong. Bebs Mellana and the Naliyagan Foreworks Display to color the evening skies. (DMS/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

WHO, DOH to celebrate World Blood Donor Day

By Daisy Jane M. Apit

BUTUAN CITY, June 10 (PIA) - With the global theme of this year’s campaign “Thank you for saving life” and with the slogan “Give Freely, Give Often. Blood Donation Matters,” the World Blood Donor Day will be celebrated this coming June 14, 2015 throughout the world.

It focuses on thanking all the voluntary unpaid blood donors who save lives every day through their blood donations and to raise awareness of the need for regular, voluntary blood donations and adequate and safe blood transfusion.

The campaign aims to highlight stories from people whose lives have been saved through blood donation, as a way of motivating regular blood donors to continue giving blood and people in good health who have never given blood.

The objective of the campaign also consists of promotion of regular voluntary unpaid blood donation, creating wider public awareness of the need for regular donation at regular intervals, focusing on donor health and the quality of donor care as critical factors in building donor commitment and willingness to donate regularly, and persuasion of the ministries of health to show appreciation of regular voluntary unpaid donors and provide adequate resources for quality donor care. 

The World Health Organization’s (WHO's) goal is for all counties to obtain all their blood supplies from voluntary unpaid donors by 2020.

“In line with WHO’s intent for the next five years, the Department of Health (DOH) and the DOH Caraga regional office are extending all extraneous efforts to support the same mission. Let’s help save lives by giving a part of ourselves,” said DOH Caraga regional director Dr. Jose Llacuna, Jr. (DJA/PIACaraga)

DILG Sec. Roxas turns-over 10 police jeeps to AgNor LGUs

By Daisy Jane M. Apit

BUTUAN CITY, June 10 (PIA) – Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Mar Roxas on Wednesday turned-over 10 multi-purpose police patrol jeeps to the 10 municipalities of Agusan del Norte at the Agusan del Norte provincial capitol covered court this city.

Sec. Roxas said the patrol jeeps are not only for responding to crime situations but for emergencies, as well. Such functions include transporting evacuees or relief goods during disasters.

"These jeeps are of great help. They will be used in patrolling, responding in emergencies and because Agusan Norte is one of the provinces that are usually calamity-stricken, the jeeps shall be used in disaster preparedness and response," said Roxas.

The local chief executives representing the municipalities of Buenavista, Carmen, Jabonga, Kitcharao, Las Nieves, Magallanes, Nasipit, RTR, Santiago and Tubay were all present in the turn-over ceremony.  

"Our DILG Sec. Mar Roxas has been supporting us in our endeavors here in the province, And now, he is here to give us another blessing and we are looking forward for more. Wih this, I am asking all Agusanons to also give our full support to our secretary in whatever he may do for the good of our country," expressed Agusan del Norte Gov. Ma. Angelica Rosedell Amante-Matba.

“There are 1,490 total number of cities in the Philippines and each one of them shall receive one patrol jeep. So far, there were already 153 jeeps distributed. And in identifying which cities/municipalities should be given, we ask first the help of the Peace and Order Council and the PNP,” Roxas said.

The next distribution of the patrol police jeeps shall be done October of this year, added Roxas.

Right after the turn-over event, Sec. Roxas proceeded to Bukidnon to also turn-over 20 patrol jeeps.

It was learned that he already distributed patrol jeeps in the provinces of Albay, Sorsogon, Zambales, Bataan, Pampanga, Western Samar, Sarangani and South Cotabato. The procurement and distribution of patrol jeeps is part of the overall strategy to reduce crime not only in the nation's capital, but in the whole country as well. (DJA with reports from Jennifer P. Gaitano/PIA-Caraga)

ARB orgs undergo cooperative training

By Gil E. Miranda

BUTUAN CITY, June 10 (PIA) – The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in Agusan del Norte recently conducted a three-day training on Cooperative Management and Governance in line with the required 14 mandatory training of the Cooperative and Development Authority (CDA) held at the municipal gym in Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte on June 2 to 4.

The training was attended by some 40 Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) consisting of cooperative leaders and officers that include managers, secretary, treasurers, bookkeepers from different ARB organizations in Las Nieves Agrarian Reform Communities (ARCs).

The three-day activity enhanced the organizational capability of the coop leaders and officers to become self-reliant in assuming full responsibility toward economic advancement.

PARPO II Andre B. Atega, CESO VI said the training will transform the ARB organizations into efficient agricultural producers and entrepreneurs.

The participants actively shared their common experiences and presented the output as they play an integral role in meeting their proposed goals.

The activity worked with an experienced speakers from Resource Development Experience Consultancy headed by executive director Roger O. Fabe.

DAR and CDA are in the forefront to give the ARBOs the much needed thrust that will ensure their viability to fully link delivery of support services to agrarian reform beneficiaries in the form of access to microfinancing and raising agricultural productivity. (DAR-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Tuesday, June 9, 2015

DENR Caraga calls support of stakeholders vs. illegal logging

By Daisy Jane M. Apit

BUTUAN CITY, June 9 (PIA) – Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Caraga regional director Nonito N. Tamayo said that the department is expecting the active support of the people in the all-out campaign to slow down if not eradicate the problem of illegal logging in the regional areas of concern.

“I believe that the media, armed forces, the stakeholders are with us. This is our commitment. So if not zero level, with all the support coming from the different sectors we will hit our aim,” Tamayo said during the press briefing held on June 5 in time with the celebration of the World Environment Day and the Environment month at the DENR Caraga Regional Training Center, here.

Tamayo also bared that it was already recorded and confirmed that illegal logging statistics is decreasing in the region.

“Out of 31 illegal logging hotspots in the country, 17 are in our region. With all sincerity and honesty, we were able to neutralize six out of those 17 hotspots,” Tamayo added.

Tamayo and his senior staff and field officials vowed to neutralize illegal logging activities in the remaining hotspot areas. The covenant was formalized at the recently concluded Special Management Conference where 35 officials including five Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officers (PENROs) and 10 City Environment and Natural Resources Officers (CENROs) signed the agreement.

It was also learned that couple with the signing of commitment, however, is the risk of being removed from their post and a setback to be demoted from their post should they fall short of the commitment.

Meanwhile, Tamayo also revealed that they have already established three additional forest monitoring checkpoints in Davao and Caraga. The checkpoints are part of their actions in strengthening their campaign to bring down the illegal logging and timber poaching incidence by the end of June 2015. 

 “It’s a tall order to all DENR regional directors to bring illegal logging incidence down to zero level at least by the end of June this year,” he said. (DJA with reports from Jennifer Gaitano/PIA-Caraga)

Dengue cases decrease in Caraga Region

By Daisy Jane M. Apit

BUTUAN CITY, June 9 (PIA) – Dengue cases in Caraga Region remarkably dropped by 51 percent in the first semester this year compared to the same period last year.

Dengue project regional coordinator Dr. Jonathan Basadre said that a total of 1,162 cases of dengue fever were admitted to the different disease reporting units regionwide from January 1 to June 6, 2015, lower by 1,224 cases than the 2,386 recorded in the same period in 2014.

Basadre also said that in terms of geographic distribution, Butuan City has the highest number in the six cities with 267 cases while Surigao del Sur is the highest among all the five provinces in the region with 230 cases.

There were also six deaths reported to the different diseases reporting units regionwide, it was learned.

“We continue to follow the simple rules of eradicating this problem by searching and destroying mosquito breeding places every 4:00 p.m. and be updated to the dengue status of our barangay,” said DOH Caraga regional director Dr. Jose Llacuna, Jr. (DJApit/PIA-Caraga)

DOH-Caraga offers HI-5 for improvements in health outcomes

By Daisy Jane M. Apit

BUTUAN CITY, June 9 (PIA) – The Department of Health (DOH) - Regional Office XIII introduced a new strategy called the Universal Health Care High Impact Five (HI-5) to produce extensive improvements in health outcomes and on the priority, vulnerable population focusing on the five critical Universal Health Care (UHC) interventions.

According to DOH Caraga regional director Dr. Jose Llacuna, Jr., the program shall focus on reducing maternal, infant, and under-five mortality; reducing the burden of HIV/AIDS; and establishing service delivery networks.

The mentioned strategy would intensify the regional operations through health-related services and converge in priority poverty programs. It would also be implemented within 15 months, from April 2014 to June 2015. It is also geared towards the health department’s commitment of continued and improved UHC, moreover, as an action taken in response to the eight Millennium Development Goals (MDG).

Additionally, all major activities shall be synchronized to occur nationwide and at key specific dates so as to have a greater impact on the target population.

HI-5 shall also focus on the poor population and prioritize direct service delivery and other direct interventions to ensure that HI-5 is a tangible health care strategy.

It was learned that the HI-5 Summit, also part of the HI-5 activities will be held on June 10, 2015.  At the same time, a Kalusugan Pangkalahatan HI- 5 Caravan shall take place together with Buntis Congress as both nationwide synchronal initiatives on June 23, 2015. Both include the provision of direct health services and commodities, and information and dissemination.

“The Department of Health is more than just a hub, it is the core of health services towards an exceptional health care system. We want to ensure that the health programs and services of the agency are not only seen and felt but relished for a better health of all Filipinos especially the Caraganons,” said Dr. Llacuna. (DJApit/PIA-Caraga)

DOLE-RTWPB to hold Promo Diskwento 2015

By Nora L. Molde

BUTUAN CITY, June 9 (PIA) – The Department of Labor and Employment-Regional Tripartite and Wages Productivity Board (DOLE-RTWPB) will hold a Promo Diskwento 2015 on June 11 from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the city hall lobby.

According to RTWPB Caraga Board Secretary VI Earl dela Victoria, the activity is in partnership with the city government of Butuan and in coordination with ABS-CBN Butuan.

Dela Victoria also said that different suppliers will be selling their products on discounted prices on the said date.

“We are inviting the public to come, join and patronize the said activity by buying products,” said dela Victoria.

Said activity is in line with the 117th Independence Day celebration on June 12  with the theme, “Kalayaan 2015: Tagumpay sa Pagbabagong Nasimulan, Abot Kamay na ng Bayan." (NCLM/PIA-Caraga)

DepEd Agnor to conduct ceremonial disposal of worn-out PHL flag

By Nora L. Molde

BUTUAN CITY, June 9 (PIA) – The Department of Education (DepEd) Agusan del Norte Division will conduct the first ceremonial disposal of Worn-out Philippine Flags on Wednesday, June 10.

Schools Division Superintendent Romeo O. Aprovecar has invited governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba to grace the occasion. Also, the governor will represent the Inang Bayan (Motherland) during the ceremony.

According to DepEd Agusan del Norte Division public information officer Fe M. Dizon, the conduct of the activity is pursuant to Republic Act 8491 also known as The Flag Heraldic Code of the Philippines which states that flags should be solemnly burned to avoid misuse or desecration.

The activity will be held at the division’s lobby at 4:00 p.m., Dizon said. (NCLM/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Female police officer, PNCO commended for anti-drugs campaign

By Noel B. Najarro

BUTUAN CITY, June 9 (PIA) - A female police officer and a police non-commissioned officer were made recipients of a Philippine National Police (PNP) commendation medal for a successful anti-illegal drugs campaign.

Awarded the “Medalya Ng Papuri” (PNP Commendation Medal) were Police SInsp. Marisan L. Estrada and PO3 Elizalde Suarez for the successful implementation of search warrant and arrest of two suspects of dealing illegal drugs at Purok 7, Brgy. San Ignacio, this city for violation of the Republic Act 9165 (Comprehensive anti-illegal drugs law) on January 14, 2015.

The police action resulted to the confiscation of suspected shabu with a total weight of 1.7351 grams and an estimated value of P20,474.00 and assorted drug paraphernalia.

Pinning the medals to the awardees was Jessie P. Omamalin, assistant vice president of the Development Bank of the Philippines (Butuan) who was also the guest of honor and speaker during the Monday Flag-raising rites assisted by Caraga PNP chief PCSupt David Ombao and PSSupt Ronelo Jaurigue, chief of the Regional Headquarters Support Group. (PNA/PIA-Caraga)

DILG chief to distribute patrol jeeps in AgNor, Bukidnon

BUTUAN CITY, June 9 (PIA) - In fulfillment of his promise to local government units (LGUs) to distribute one patrol jeep for each municipality across the country, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) secretary Mar Roxas will fly to Mindanao on Wednesday, June 10 to distribute a total of 30 brand new patrol jeeps.

Of the 30 patrol jeeps, 10 will go to Agusan del Norte and 20 to Bukidnon. Turnover ceremonies will be held in the respective provincial capitols of the two provinces.

Roxas envisions the patrol jeeps to be used not only in responding to crime situations but in emergency situations as well. Such functions include transporting evacuees or relief goods during disasters.

The "Big Brother of LGUs" previously assured all local chief executives that all municipalities will receive one patrol jeep regardless of political affiliation.

This, he said, is one of the main principles of "Daang Matuwid," which delivers services to all.

Roxas has already distributed patrol jeeps in the provinces of Albay, Sorsogon, Zambales, Bataan, Pampanga, Western Samar, Sarangani, and South Cotabato.

The procurement and distribution of patrol jeeps is part of the overall strategy to reduce crime not only in the nation's capital, but in the whole country as well.

The DILG chief has implemented Oplan Lambat-Sibat, an intensified anti-crime campaign that employs a "deliberate, programmatic, and sustained" approach. Recent efforts of the Philippine National Police (PNP) through the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) has resulted to more 60 percent reduction in crime incidents in Metro Manila since Oplan Lambat-Sibat was implemented in June last year. (DILG/PIA-Caraga)

Q2 meeting set for PESO managers in SurSur

By Greg Tataro Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, June 9 (PIA) – The Provincial Public Employment Service Office (PESO) located at the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPAg) Building, this city, has called up a 2nd quarter meeting for all PESO managers province-wide on June 10, 2015.

Marcos Quico, PESO federation president, confirmed that important matters pertaining to PESO Programs and Services such as Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES), Skills Registry System and Phil-Jobnet, Statistical Performance Reporting System (SPRS) Submission, and Career Guidance Advocacy are going to be discussed.

Other things to be undertaken likewise include the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Integrated Livelihood and Emergency Employment Programs (DILEEP); Special Project Fund (GIP and TUPAD); and, Grassroots Participatory Budgeting for 2015, he cited.

Quico, who is also the provincial agriculturist of Surigao del Sur, pointed out that the federation under him has 23 active members.

He explained that aside from the 17 municipalities and two cities, four primary institution of learnings within the province have their respective PESO managers particularly Surigao del Sur State University (SDSSU), St. Theresa College (STC), Andres Soriano College (ASC), and De La Salle John Bosco College (DLSJBC).

The scheduled meeting has been noted by Raymond Fel Sajor, DOLE field office chief here, it was learned. (NGBT/Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Butuan solon supports book on Butuanon culture, foodways

BUTUAN CITY, June 9 (PIA) - A book worth the keep. Butuanon Cuisine: In Search of Local Identity is now available to the public.

Navigating the rich history of Butuan, the book retells the story of an ancient civilization through its delectable and exquisite foodways and tradition. It gives every reader a delicious glimpse of the past, as far as our unsung memory could recall when early Butuanons prepare their everyday meals easily sourced from their abundant natural environs of Agusan River.

Written by Dr. Manolita Rosales Lerida and Apolonia Vanzuela Garay - both researchers from Father Saturnino Urios University - the book reclaims authentic Butuanon cuisine by retelling the traditional steps of food preparation: palagsing, tinumpi, inisab, kinabol, buawy, bunta'a, inaman pawo, kayam, tamilok, abatud, among others.

The release of the book is seen to contribute to the increasingly significant flotilla of works and literature vouching for the cultural richness of Butuan. Last year, Butuan City and Las Nieves representative Lawrence 'Law' Fortun filed House Bill 4879, declaring the Balangay as the National Boat of the Philippines, and House Bill 4823 which seeks to declare the city as a heritage tourism zone.

Anybody interested can buy the book at FSUU Bookstore, J.C. Aquino Ave., this city. (Lawig Katawhan/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

SurSur agri chief confident of mitigating measures vs. El Niño

By Greg Tataro Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, June 9 (PIA) – Surigao del Sur chief agriculturist Marcos Quico admitted mild El Niño phenomenon has indeed taken its toll in the province.

However, even with the prevailing circumstances, he is not at all worried due to some mitigating measures put in place.

A couple of months ago, the agriculture office here has quickly complied with the request of the Department of Agriculture (DA) Caraga regional office to submit data in this regard.

Quico immediately tied-up with the Provincial Irrigation Management Office (PIMO) here under the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) to provide specific information on potential areas that can be possibly hit by “El Niño phenomenon.

He said that while climate has been a bit harsh but occasional rains have already started to occur especially during night time.

The chief agriculturist also hinted that harvest season is already in for palay. (NGBT/Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Monday, June 8, 2015

Butuan City inmates avail SSS’ AlkanSSSya Program

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, June 8 (PIA) – The Social Security System (SSS) in partnership with the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) Caraga has launched on Friday the AlkanSSSya Program with the city inmates as the beneficiaries. 

There were some 26 female and 72 male participating inmates in the said activity.

Officials of the BJMP-Caraga Regional Office expressed their gratitude to SSS especially to SSS Northern Mindanao Division assistant vice president Atty. Edwin Alo for partnering with the Butuan City Jail in the launching of the SSS' AlkanSSSya Program. With this, inmates will be taught to save and assured of their future whether in jail or in the mainstream of society.

Atty. Alo emphasized the importance of being an SSS member. "With your SSS membership, you are secured and protected. Just pay your monthly dues religiously and you will surely benefit from this program," he said.

J/Insp. Raul Badillo, assistant warden also expressed his thanks to the SSS officials for partnering with the BJMP-Caraga for its program intended for the welfare of the city inmates. He also reiterated that with the said program, inmates can now avail of the SSS without any hassle on their part and their relatives.

"May the AlkanSSSya Program of the Social Security System help many of our inmates here in the city. I know you have your livelihood here so I believe all of you can pay your SSS premium on time without any problem. May your contribution also help you in times of emergencies especially when you will be discharged and live another life again in your respective community," articulated Baltar.

Also, Antonio Fabia, SSS Butuan City branch head congratulated all the recipients and inspired them to continue life even inside the jail. “Your life doesn’t end up here, be optimistic that there are still many wonderful things to come. And the SSS as your partner is very willing to help and assist you. Meantime, we are asking you to save and pay your monthly due,” he said.

It can be recalled that the AlkanSSSya program evolved from the original "TrikanSSSya" conceptualized by the SSS Las Piñas Branch and subsequently launched to cover tricycle operators and drivers. The project entailed the construction of a pigeon-hole-like "piggy bank" for these drivers to drop off their daily savings intended for SSS contributions. Such set-up was ideal for members who cannot afford to remit their entire monthly premiums in one payment but are able to do so on a daily basis. Inspired by the idea, the TrikanSSSya program has since been adopted and institutionalized as a nationwide program for all SSS branches to cover and collect from Informal Sector Groups (ISGs) or self-employed members with irregular income.

Under the program, daily savings are placed in the AlkanSSSya unit, which is a metal cabinet or any material with secure mini-compartments that are assigned to association members who can drop in any amount daily until the required minimum SSS contribution is met. Once a month, the informal sector group officials, under the monitoring and guidance of an SSS Account Officer, count out the collected savings, fill out the requisite payment forms, and remit these to SSS through the bank or an accredited collecting agent. ‪

It was also learned that as of June 2014, the SSS has been able to partner with 837 different ISGs and successfully registered 83,757 workers as SSS members. In terms of contributions, more than P81.1 million have been collected, although many other ISGs have yet to make their first counting.

Meanwhile, Atty. Alo, together with Mr. Fabia, BJMP Warden J/SInsp. Jonathan Baltar, JO1 Psychie Macagaan, and AMS Head of SSS Butuan Ma. Zima Balansag signed the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) witnessed by the male and female participating inmates.

Right after the MOA Signing between the officials of the SSS and BJMP-Caraga, the 26 females and 72 males personally dropped their coins at their AlkanSSSya - a typical can where they can place their payments intended for their SSS monthly dues. (JPG/PIA-Caraga) ‪

Tandag Water District assures customers of ample supply; bares new policies, initial plans

By Greg Tatato Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, June 8 (PIA) – Tandag Water District (TWD), which is under new management, has assured its more than 6,200 customers of sufficient water supply.

General Manager (GM) Annie Ty, who took over the helm on May 18, expressed confidence about having a much better service, especially on the quantity and quality of water.

She said that water interruption is no longer a major stumbling block, citing that aside from having several surface and underground sources, TWD has now employed a technology via a new “water treatment facility.”

However, a busted water supply pipe has caused much inconvenience to customers over the weekend.

Meanwhile, aware that the city—its service area—is booming, having in mind two medium-sized malls to open soon, apart from a new branch of a popular food chain that is expected to break ground also sooner or later, the new GM added that TWD will further venture on finding and developing new water sources.

Just less than a month-old in her post, the lady executive also disclosed a more lax and lenient policy on customers who encounter problem in paying their bills—a bit of good news since no disconnection is going to take place provided those facing such circumstance will agree on executing a promissory note or paying a minimal percentage of the amount due.

Moreover, Ty took pride in saying that tap water here is indeed potable, hence suitable for drinking.

She also revealed that instead of going outside of the province for a water sample laboratory test, TWD has already made possible tying-up with the Provincial Health Office (PHO) for such a requirement.

In addition, the new GM, who replaced predecessor Engr. Ruben Elpa, is planning to allow a contract agreement with prospective concessionaire/s to plant trees at Tandag watershed with a total area of 784 hectares. (NGBT/Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

11 Caraga schools now have DOST’s STARBOOKS

BUTUAN CITY, June 8 (PIA) - A globally recognized digital science library developed by the Department of Science and Technology-Science and Technology Information Institute (DOST-STII), is now being used as a handy research tool for students at 11 high schools in Eastern Mindanao.

Recently, DOST-STII launched STARBOOKS or Science and Technology Academic and Research-Based Openly-Operated Kiosk Stations in the said sites during the Butuan City, Caraga Region stop of the Department’s national roadshow dubbed Science Nation: Agham na Ramdam.

STARBOOKS is a user-friendly digital library of science and technology (S&T) information which may be accessed without Internet connection. It is the first science digital library in the Philippines, containing thousands of S&T resources in various formats - text and audio/ video - placed in especially designed pods set in a user-friendly interface.

STARBOOKS is one of five projects worldwide recently chosen by the American Library Association (ALA) to receive the 2015 ALA Presidential Citation for Innovative International Library Projects on June 29, 2015 in San Francisco, USA.

The 11 Caraga schools now installed with STARBOOKS are Agusan National High School and AMA Computer Learning Center in the city; Mainit National High School in Mainit, Surigao del Norte; Jabonga Central Elementary School, Jabonga, Agusan del Norte; Burgos National High School, Burgos, Siargao, Surigao del Norte; Tag-abaca National High School and Loreto National High School in Basilisa and Loreto, Dinagat Islands respectively; Jacinto P. Elpa National High School and Lingig National High School in Tandag City and Lingig, Surigao del Sur; Esperanza National High School and Bayugan National Comprehensive High School in Esperanza and Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur.

“ALA, if you would ask me, is among the most influential academic bodies,” said DOST assistant secretary Raymund E. Liboro during the launch, “so for those who have STARBOOKS in their school library, you are getting a world-class product.”

Also present during the launch were other key officials of DOST led by undersecretary for regional operations Carol M. Yorobe and and DOST Caraga regional director Dominga D. Mallonga.

Science Nation: Agham na Ramdam is a continuing roadshow that showcases DOST’s achievements and contributions in the region’s economic growth through various scientific and technological interventions. The launching of STARBOOKS was one of several activities during the event. STARBOOKS will also be featured during DOST’s National Science and Technology Week slated from July 24-28, 2015 at SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia, Pasay City. (S&T Media Service/PIA-Caraga)

10 troop carrier vehicles arrive at PRO 13

By Noel B. Najarro

BUTUAN CITY, June 8 (PIA) - Ten units of troop carrier police vehicles are now at Police Regional Office 13 ready for disposal to the designated municipal police stations of Agusan del Norte.

Police Regional Office 13 regional chief spokesman PSupt Martin Gamba, in an interview on Monday morning, said that the vehicles which arrived at Camp Rafael C. Rodriguez on Thursday last week were procured by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and were shipped via Cagayan de Oro City port.

According to him, the vehicles were already designated to the ten municipal police stations of the province of Agusan del Norte upon the receipt of their regional supply officer.

He said he did not have any idea why only the municipal police stations of Agusan del Norte were made to be recipients of the police troop carriers, excluding the city of Cabadbaran. Each unit has already been marked with the names of the respective recipient municipal police stations upon its arrival at the Cagayan de Oro city port as received by their regional supply officer, he said.

The regional spokesperson chief also said that he did not know if there will still be more shipments of similar vehicles for the other provinces in the future. He said however, that the vehicles will soon be disposed and turned-over to the supply officers of the respective designated municipality. As to when and who will do the turn-over rites, he did not have any idea yet.

Presently, according to Gamba, they are still on the process of checking and recording the vehicles and these may probably be turned-over anytime this week.

According to Gamba that the troop carriers will be a big boost as to the mobility of the police and may greatly contribute to the peace-keeping, anti-criminality and anti- illegal activity campaign of the municipalities of Agusan del Norte. (PNA/PIA-Caraga)

Surigao Norte guv inspires employees

By John Glenn A. Platil

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, June 8 (PIA) – Surigao del Norte Governor Sol F. Matugas energized rank-and-file employees of the provincial capitol during the Monday Morning Sharing (MMS) on June 1, 2015 held at the Provincial Convention Center, this city.

Governor Matugas announced that the 14th month pay is being considered to help the spirited and determined workers of the provincial government.

In addition, the governor said that she is carefully studying her plans to promote excellent performers from the Provincial Assessor’s Office, citing their national standing in revenue collections from large-scale mining companies which directly benefit the constituents of the province by way of giant infrastructure projects and road-to-bridges networks.

On top of the rewards being evaluated, governor Matugas also explored legitimate ways to promote impressive, remarkable and great team-players from the Provincial Treasury.

“I cannot promote everybody or raise the salary of every individual here across-the-board due to budgetary constraints. We are doing it reasonably, in stages, step by step. Any reward or incentive is performance-based. Promotion is the essential and ultimate result of hard-work and productivity,” explained governor Matugas.

Meanwhile, she also revealed that officials from the city are eager to travel and see the wonders of Siargao. Reiterating her formal invitation, governor Matugas encouraged all those who do not know Siargao to visit the enchanted paradise which hosts the annual World Surfing Cup and International Gamefishing Competition.

With respect to the subject on transparency and accountability wherein the province earned 100 percent compliance rate, governor Matugas asserted that anyone is welcome to express his/her commentary against a department head or immediate superior in line with the principle of freedom of expression so long as the critique is helpful to improve the organization.

Accordingly, the governor said that solid collaboration, pure understanding and great teamwork are important elements to sustain “Ang Bag-ong Surigao” (The New Surigao).

She emphasized that a down-to-earth utility worker is as necessary as the senior manager because when one is having a problem, the entire establishment gets affected. (SDR/PIC-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Surigao City hosts Mindanao traders' confab roadshow

By Rodrigo R. Matabaran

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, June 8 (PIA) - The organizers of the 24th Mindanao Business Conference (MinBizCon) recently conducted a roadshow here to consult the local stakeholders on possible business and economic development policies that will be presented as formal resolutions during the business conference proper that will be held on September 2-3 this year at Dipolog City.

The MinBizCon is an annual business conference organized by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) and supported by various government and private organizations.

PCCI vice president for Mindanao Affairs Annie O. Ty and Caraga PCCI Regional Governor Sesinio O. Narisma led the consultation.

The attendees during the roadshow included the officers of the different Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Caraga region, the academe and the officers of Surigao Chamber of Commerce and Industry, being the roadshow’s host, headed by vice president for Provincial Affairs Willy Gan, and vice president for City Affairs Manuel Kong, and some leading figures of the local business community.

VP Ty presented the overview of the Mindanao Policy Consultation while Cecil Triño, Area Development Officer of Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Caraga talked on the MinDA's role in the economic development of Mindanao.

Some vital economic development concerns that was proposed and suggested to be considered important talking points during the MinBizCon and be presented to the national government are issues on power supply, improvement of the quality of telecommunication services, value-chain based infrastructure development, conflicting tenurial instruments of lands that hinders private sector investments, engagement of the private sector and major industry players in achieving the goals on inclusive growth.

The organizers disclosed that the city is the 4th leg of the series of roadshows throughout the five cities in Mindanao.

They have already done similar consultation activities in Dipolog City, Cagayan de Oro City, and Gen. Santos City.  The last roadshow will be held in Davao City.

The city was chosen as the roadshow venue in Caraga region considering that it will host the 25th MinBizCon next year - 2016, it was learned. (SDR/DTI-Surigao del Norte)

Tagalog News: Palasyo ikinalugod ang pahayag ng Tsina ng pagkakaroon ng mapayapang solusyon sa isyu sa West Philippine Sea

Ni David M. Suyao

AGUSAN DEL SUR, Hunyo 8 (PIA) - Ikinalulugod ng Malakanyang noong Linggo ang pahayag ng Tsina na “Hindi sila hahanap ng solusyong military sa pinagtalunang teritoryo” na nasa West Philippine Sea (WPS).

"Ikinalulugod natin ang mga pahayag na tulad niyan at sang-ayon din po tayo doon sa proposisyon na hindi dapat gumamit ng anumang military solution. At inaayunan din po natin ‘yung kanilang pahayag na ang apatnapung taong pakikipag-ugnayan sa pagitan ng Tsina at ng Pilipinas ay peaceful, friendly at cooperative," sabi ni Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr., saisang panayam sa dzRB Radyo ng Bayan.

Sinabi ni Coloma na dahil ang pinagtalunang isyu sa WPS ay may ugnayan sa ibang bansa, at hindi ganoon ka simple ang paglutas sa kabilaang isyu.

"Marami pong bansa, usually po ay more than two sa bawat pinagtatalunang lugar diyan o features o maritime entitlements diyan sa West Philippine Sea. Kaya po iyon po ang ating posisyon. Hindi po ganoon kasimple," sabi ni Coloma.

Sinabi ng ambassador ng Tsina sa Manila na si Zhao Jianhua noong Biyernes na “Gusto namin na ang Pilipina ay bumalik sa negotiating table” at dagdag pa niya na ang Tsina ay walang pinaunang kondisyon sa pagbabalik ng usapan.

Noong Marso ng nakaraang taon, ang Pilipinas ay naghain ng isang memorial sa International Tribunal on the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) laban sa Tsina kaugnay sa ginawang pag-angkin sa WPS.

Ang iba pang umaangkin sa mga lupain na matatagpuan sa pinagtalunang lugar pandagat ay ang Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei at Taiwan. (PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Sunday, June 7, 2015

2015 Oplan Balik Eskwela kicks off in Butuan City

By Dr. Jonas H. Jomonong

BUTUAN CITY, June 7 (PIA) - The Division of Butuan City recently joined the whole nation in the conduct of the 2015 Oplan Balik Eskwela with the highlight of the Inter-Agency Convergence Meeting on May 29, 2015 at Roldan’s Eat All You Can Convention Hall here.

The said convergence was presided by the no less than the schools division superintendent Arsenio Cornites Jr. and was graced by the participating agencies like the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Office of Civil Defense (OCD), Philippine National Police (PNP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (DRRMC), Radyo ng Bayan and the City Councilor Ramon P. Carampatana.

The said activity aims to facilitate comprehensive dissemination and discussion on the details of the Oplan Balik Eskwela.

In a larger sense, Oplan Balik Eskwela was cascaded to all public elementary and secondary schools as its implementing arms to make the necessary preparations for the opening of classes.           

In line with this, Bit-os Elementary School has activated the said endeavor in all grade levels concern making it sure that all pupils are already enrolled and are able to attend the first day of classes on June 1.

Oplan Balik Eskwela (OBE) Action Center was very visible in the school that will cater immediate concerns of parents and pupils most specially those who are transferred in as well and facilitate them on what to do and what they need to know on K to 12 as part the school’s advocacy campaign.

In addition, the “No Collection Policy” was given emphasis by the school admnistration which means that parents and pupils need not to worry on school fees for they are made to know that no single amount will be collected and paid for all other fees.

It is indeed very essential for anyone especially the classroom teachers to be open in all possibilities in order for them not to be taken by surprise if ever there are monitoring teams to visit the school anytime.

This is in line with the Oplan Balik Eskwela which aims to address the problems commonly encountered at the start of the school year to ensure that pupils/students are already properly enrolled and able to attend school by the first day of classes. (DepEd Butuan City/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Saturday, June 6, 2015

CODA elder members undergo IT training

By Jean Mary G. Ronquillo

BUTUAN CITY, June 6 (PIA) - Despite the noticeable gap with the advancement of technology, elderly members of Cortes OFW and Dependent Association (CODA) proved that learning computer technology is never too late for them.

It was proven true as some 19 members of CODA, of which 17 are elders, underwent recently a four-day training on Information Technology conducted by Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Regional Welfare Office -13 at Poblacion Barangay Hall of Cortes, Surigao del Sur.

In his message during the onset of the training, OWWA-13 regional director Samuel Madrid conveyed that making this program of the agency more accessible to the clients is one way that the government will be felt by its constituents.

“Ang programang ito ng OWWA ay ginagawa natin upang lalong mapalapit ang pamahalaan sa inyo po na aming mga boss na aming pinagsisilbihan. Hindi na po kayo pupunta sa regional office kundi kami na po sa OWWA ang pupunta sa inyo para maipadama naming na kayo ay hindi namin nakakalimutan,” articulated Madrid.

OWWA’s IT training program which is now being rolled out in various municipalities of the region, aims to capacitate the OFWs and their families by giving them access  to technology that they can use as a communication tool and upgrade their IT Skills for potential employability.

Included on the training modules are the following: basic computer fundamentals 1 and 2, Internet Fundamentals, Word Processing, Spread Sheet, Power Point Presentation and Digital Media Fundamentals.

For 59-year old Arnulfa Dueñas, who expressed her enthusiasm about the training, learning the basics of computer is a fulfillment of her dream.

“I am very thankful for this training because despite my age I was given the chance to learn computer,” said Dueñas in a local dialect.

Moreover, during the closing ceremony of the training, Atty. Glenn Plaza, Surigao del Sur 1st district board member, expressed support to the elder trainees and pointed out that computers are not only for teenagers but also for everyone who wish to learn, no age limit is imposed.          

“Computer technology and other form of communication tools are nowadays a necessity and part of people’s daily lives as we are on the computer generation,” bared Plaza.

On the other hand, Aireen Cambaling, OIC chief, Programs and Services Division, disclosed that the agency is always in support of every undertaking of the organization.

In fact, she disclosed that, aside from the IT Training afforded to them, other CODA members also underwent a Skills Training on Beauty Care simultaneously. (OWWA-13/PIA-Caraga)

Friday, June 5, 2015

148 HS grads qualify for 2015 DOST scholarship

By Mary Grace Tambis

BUTUAN CITY, June 5 (PIA) - A total of 148 graduating students from Caraga have qualified for the 2015 Department of Science and Technology-Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI) undergraduate scholarship.

According to DOST Caraga scholarship coordinator Meriam B. Bouquia, 1,227 graduating high school students from different private and public institutions regionwide applied and took the challenge of the qualifying examination last September 26, 2014 and only 12.06 percent of them surpassed.

Said result was posted by SEI on March 8, 2015 wherein 30 passers came from Agusan del Norte (ADN), 39 from Agusan del Sur (ADS), 36 from Surigao del Norte (SDN), 34 from Surigao del Sur (SDS), and 9 from the Province of Dinagat Islands (PDI).

They shall enroll to courses under engineering, natural, physical, and applied sciences based on the priority courses enumerated by the scholarship program. Moreover, such grant is allowed only in universities and other higher education institutions which are recognized by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to be centers of excellence or centers of development. This allows them to pursue their desired fields in science in leading institutions countrywide.

Scholars are now entitled to receive an increased amount of monthly stipend and other allowances starting academic year 2015-2016. Students who will be taking up Physics, Geology, Mining Engineering, Agriculture, and Fisheries will be given a P6,000.00 monthly stipend while those who will enroll in other priority courses are entitled to P5,000.00 monthly. The program will also provide P1,000.00 book allowance per academic year, P10,000.00 tuition fee subsidy per semester, and P1,000.00 MS/PE clothing allowance.

In return, they are expected to maintain high scholastic grades, based on DOST standards, and moral behaviors so as to continually enjoy the benefits offered by the program.

The said DOST scholarship provides students the opportunity to become key players in the country’s development and will help in creating science and technology-based solutions to contribute to the country’s economic growth. (DOST-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Cortes women OFWs undergo beauty care skills training

By Jean Pearl I. Millones

BUTUAN CITY, June 5 (PIA) - Understanding the rapidly growing economy and the increasing number of tourists exploring the area brought about by the development of the municipality’s eco-tourism, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) together with the local government of Cortes, Surigao del Sur, has recently afforded the Cortes OFW and Dependents Organization (CODA) Skills Training on Beauty Care on May 28-30, 2015.

Vincent Dueñas, Cortes Tourism Officer, emphasized the challenge in upgrading the human capital’s capability to meet the area’s rising demand for more skilled workers and increase Cortesanon’s household income.

“We are trying to promote and develop eco-tourism, but the question is: are we ready to cater services to the tourists,” said Dueñas.

The three-day techno transfer was participated in by some 17 CODA members. Among the skills included in the course were manicure, pedicure, hair cutting, and a more advanced skill in beauty care and hair rebonding.

OWWA Caraga regional director Samuel S. Madrid, in his message, pointed out the government’s action to help alleviate poverty, “Ang gobyerno ay ginagawa ang lahat upang madagdagan o kaya’y mabigyan kayo ng panibagong kaalaman upang lalo kayong maging kapaki-pakinabang sa buhay,” Madrid further expressed his gratitude and lauded the members of CODA for their dedication and determination in improving their organization.

In response to the agency’s fervent pursuit to further heighten the empowerment of its member-OFWs and arm them with competency especially in the outskirts of the region, the members of the organization much appreciated the agency’s efforts with delight.

Leonora L. Anecoy, a member of CODA and an amateur manicurist, shared her elation for being granted with the training. “After availing of the financial literacy training, it is very helpful that we are given beauty care training to advance our skills where we can generate additional income from," she said in a local dialect.

After the training program, the participants were provided with starter kits making them ready to start their own venture to beauty care and gradually open up a beauty care center. The activity was done simultaneously with the Information Technology Training catering to some other members of the organization. (OWWA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Feature: DOLE Caraga scholar now PESO Manager

By Iris Asis

“I wouldn’t be able to finish my studies if not for the SPES program of DOLE.”

This was the touching statement of Junrey Escobal, now a 34 years old, living at Pantao, Claver, Surigao del Norte. Junrey is the only boy among the four children of Mr. and Mrs. Columbus R. Escobal. His father is a fisherman while his mother, a housewife.

Eager to finish his college education, he sought help from the Department of Labor and Employment's (DOLE's) Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES) program to subsidize his tuition fee from 2002 to 2006.

“It wasn’t easy for me, sometimes I go to school without money for food, but I managed to finish my AB English degree at NEMCO (Northeastern Mindanao Colleges) in Surigao City. Thanks to DOLE,” he stressed.

He was immediately hired at Platinum Group of Mining Companies as the community organizer for three years.

Claver Mayor Eddie P. Gokiangkee saw his potential and tasked him to settle labor issues in Claver. Completing the duty effortlessly, the good mayor designated him as the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) manager in Claver.

Since 2012, Escobal is among the top performing PESO managers in Caraga.

“Being a SPES beneficiary truly helped me a lot not only financially but also in my current job. I am now the one implementing the program”, he giggled.

“As the PESO manager of Claver, I make sure that the selection of SPES beneficiaries are for those who truly deserve it," he added.

He advised the marginalized students to never give up hope in continuing their studies. Help is just around, you just have to open your eyes. DOLE's SPES Program can help. (DOLE-13/PIA-Caraga)

Feature: The legendary mover

By Marie Angela A. Conde

What does it take to become an “Outstanding Multi-grade Teacher” and an honorary school Principal?

“From small dream come great realization,” says the dreamer with the promising passion to lead and become someone big. Passion, honesty, perseverance, hard work and faith are few of the ideals that ma'am Robina O. Agan possesses to become an ideal teacher and a model Principal at M.L. Pineda Memorial Elementary School at Florida, Butuan City.

Despite her bitter past from struggling to finish her primary until tertiary education, poverty never weakened her faith. She strived to graduate in college of her dream course – BS in Elementary Education at Caraga State University formerly NORMISIST. It is such a leap of faith to make a dream come true and for Ma’am Robina, if one believes in the power of his dreams, he will never wander rather will find happiness and passion.

With her guts and determination, she served and shared her expertise in teaching as a multi-grade teacher in grades one and two at West Tungao Elementary School for eight years. Her ardor to serve the children opened a more challenging journey towards excellence as she was awarded second runner-up outstanding multi-grade teacher.

Becoming a teacher is just the start of the journey. The award she received awakened her to dream bigger and so with her guts and prime knowledge she composed her confidence and search for greater opportunities. Leadership was what she targeted so she enrolled her Masters degree in Elementary Education major in Teaching English as Second Language at Cebu Normal University and completed her academic requirements.

Conquering your fears is simply fighting for your dreams and that is what ma’am Robina exactly did. A big crowded city of Cebu did not even move her to fear. She fought the challenges, she tried and made the best to learn in the long road way forward to success. Her dream and passion led her to the executive ladder as head teacher and not long was hailed as Principal.

Becoming a principal is like becoming the mother of the school and she portrayed what an ideal mother does for her children. Thus, a good mother does not only focus on her children’s good (Teachers and Students) instead she should also be able to manifest good character and relationship to her neighbors (the people in Florida and the Barangay Officials). For most teachers under her, residents and Barangay Officials in Florida, she was notable for her honesty, kindness, ingenuity and sociable character.

Few of her remarkable works and projects were remembered and talked about, as such she repainted the school building, cemented the school fence (boundary) and posts. Her ingenuity has added beauty to the school and to the principal’s office with her stimulus in encouraging the parents to donate and raise money for the beautification of the school. Thus, she successfully purchased a sofa set and grass cutter machine for the school year 2011-2012.

Apart from planning and implementing school programs and projects, she never fails to observe classes, check lesson plans and evaluate the teacher’s performances in teaching. She also never misses to give advises to students, teachers, parents and even barangay officials. In addition, she is very keen from keeping the school clean. All these works are commendable and will always be remembered by everyone she served.

Her influence to the school and to the community is noteworthy, from a dreamer, teacher and up to becoming a principal, her service is winning. It is ideal to say that a person who shares her highest attainment for the good of all is a legendary mover. Thus, for ma’am Robina as a teacher and a principal she affected goodness and will never stop inspiring. (DepEd Butuan City Division/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Butuan villagers join Brigada Eskwela

By Marie Angela A. Conde

BUTUAN CITY, June 5 (PIA) – Stakeholders from Mariana L. Pineda Elementary School in Barangay Florida continue its support to the government-initiated “Brigada Eskwela” by repainting walls and blackboards, cleaning windows and doors, or repairing fences  to the annual “school maintenance week” project.

This year, it ran from May 18 to 23 under the theme "Tayo para sa Kalinisan, Kaligtasan, at Kahandaan ng Ating mga Paaralan (Stand for the Cleanliness, Safety, and Preparedness of our Schools)."

"Our vision is transforming lives. And I feel together with my councilmen that the best way to transform lives is through our advocacy which is education. That is why, I as a father of this community is active in activities relating to education,” said Florida brgy. captain Danilo E. Tuso during the Brigada Eskwela’s opening program.

Through the initiative of Ma. Aurora A. Ecoben, the school principal, several private partners such as One Network Bank and Eastwest Bank are given the opportunity to contribute resources for the effort. Local government units and community members provide manpower and volunteer services during this week-long activity.  (DepEd Butuan City/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

TESDA bares 2015 scholarship program in SurSur

By Greg Tataro Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, June 5 (PIA) – A total of P11,565,681.84 is set aside for the implementation of 2015 Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) scholarship program in Surigao del Sur.

Rey Cueva, TESDA provincial chief here, broke down the amount to P1,591,784 for Private Education Student Financial Assistance (PESFA); P1,825,000 for Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP); P6,434,597.84 for Special Training for Employment Program (STEP), and; P1,714,300 for Bottom-Up Budgeting (BUB).

Correspondingly, he cited the number of slots for each program, particularly for PESFA-196, TWSP-200, and STEP-530.

However, Cueva has yet to indicate the number of slots for BUB.

In addition, 13 technical-vocational (Tech-Voc) providers have been identified to cater for the various skills training and qualifications enumerated under the said scholarship program. (NGBT/Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)