Saturday, 31 January 2026

DOH debunks use of antibiotics to treat measles

By Renelle L. Escuadro

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — The Department of Health-Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) Caraga warned the public of the dangers of self-medication, taking antibiotics such as amoxicillin without medical consultation to treat viral infections like measles.

This was the warning from Doctor Karen Mae C. Durac, medical officer IV of DOH-CHD Caraga, aimed at addressing the concern raised by the media that due to familiarity and the disease’s constant recurrence, some parents, instead of seeking medical help would rather buy antibiotics like amoxicillin to cure ‘tigdas,’ the local name for measles, during the Kapihan sa PIA on January 14.

“This is very concerning that parents choose to self-medicate if their children or a family member gets sick,” Dr. Durac said. “Antibiotics treat bacterial diseases, not viral infections like measles.”

“DOH [advises] parents not to self-medicate. If there are symptoms like cough, colds and fever, we encourage you to go to your nearest health center and seek consultation from a health practitioner for proper diagnosis and give appropriate medication to prevent further transmission and complications.”

Accordingly, self-medication is the act of treating illnesses or symptoms without professional medical advice such as taking antibiotics without prescriptions, consuming leftover medicines, or following recommendations from friends and family rather than certified healthcare providers.

For the World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations agency that leads global efforts to expand universal health coverage, self-medication may lead to antibiotic resistance and health risks, including incorrect dosages, allergic reactions, drug interactions, and masking of serious conditions.

Meanwhile, Dr. Durac thanked the Kapihan sa PIA, where the department can strengthen health literacy and motivate the community and the media to help address and resolve disinformation about the treatment for measles.

The medical officer emphasized that measles, including rubella or German measles, is a highly contagious disease that can cause serious complications, and even death, especially among children which can be prevented through proper and complete vaccination.

She shared that the government has sustained its efforts to prevent the resurgence of measles nationwide and strengthen public health through the program on Measles-Rubella Supplemental Immunization Activity (MR-SIA), from January 19 to February 13, 2026, targeting at least 95 percent vaccination coverage among eligible children who are six months to 59 months old to achieve herd immunity. (RLE, PIA Dinagat Islands)

Saturday, 31 January 2026

Love always wins: Adoption order awarded to first Caraga LGBTQIA+ parent

By Niña Jonalyn Gambe-Diamante

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — Never in his wildest dreams did Cyrian P. Zafra, a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, imagine becoming a parent. Yet fate had a different plan—one that led him to embrace a child not of his own flesh and blood, but one he has come to love with his whole being. His story proves that parenthood knows no gender. 

With the guidance of a social worker from the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) of Surigao del Sur, Zafra began his journey as a licensed foster parent in 2021.

On May 11, 2022, his life changed forever. A 15-day-old infant was entrusted to his care after being surrendered by the child’s mother. “When I got the call from the social worker asking if I could foster the newborn, I felt a mix of emotions. I was happy and excited to finally experience having a child of my own. But at the same time, I was anxious and nervous—wondering if I could truly fulfill the responsibilities of being a parent,” he said.

Zafra faced doubts and prejudices from those around him. Some questioned his capacity to raise a child because of his lifestyle, while others saw his gender identity as a hindrance. But the love he felt for the child silenced all judgment. Though his life had once been uncertain, his foster daughter gave him meaning and direction. 

“Bilang isang miyembro ng LGBTQIA+, mahirap para sa atin na makahanap ng tunay na pamilya… Nang dumating sa buhay ko ang aking anak, nagbago ang pananaw ko. Nakita ko ang silbi at purpose ko sa buhay (As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, it is difficult for us to find a true family… When my child came into my life, my perspective changed. I discovered my worth and purpose in life),” he shared tearfully. 

From a carefree, happy-go-lucky individual, Zafra’s family witnessed his transformation into a responsible, devoted parent. “The moment I laid eyes on her, it was love at first sight. I instantly knew I wanted to be this child’s parent for as long as I could. But I also told myself—I want to do it the right way,” he said.

With the assistance of the Regional Alternative Child Care Office (RACCO) Caraga, Zafra filed for adoption on June 11, 2025. After months of compliance and waiting, his petition was finalized and transmitted to the National Authority for Child Care (NACC). On November 3, 2025, his long-awaited adoption order was approved, followed by the issuance of a certificate of finality on December 11, 2025—sealing his bond with his daughter, Airam.

On January 14, 2026, RACCO Caraga celebrated with the Zafra family as they rang the ceremonial ‘bell of joy’ at the regional office. Zafra is now recognized as the first-ever member of the LGBTQIA+ community in Caraga to become an adoptive parent. He hopes his story will inspire others in the community to embrace the same path of love and selflessness.

“To my fellow LGBTQIA+ members, I encourage you to consider adoption. Through it, you will experience genuine love and the deeper meaning of life. Whatever happens, there will always be someone who will give you unconditional love—something even a spouse or partner cannot always provide. And no matter what, they will never leave us,” he encouraged. 

He added, “Let us help children who have no parents. Let us give them a home and a family filled with love. Spread love. Love and be loved.”

Cyrian and Airam’s story is nothing short of destiny. Though not bound by blood, their bond is a testament to unconditional love. May this landmark adoption inspire more members of the LGBTQIA+ community to embrace parenthood and redefine family with courage, compassion, and love. (NJGD, PIA Caraga)

Saturday, 31 January 2026

DICT bridges Surigao Norte digital divide with Bayanihan SIM Project

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte (PIA) — The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Caraga rolled out the Bayanihan SIM Project, a flagship initiative to expand digital access for education in underserved communities.

The project is being undertaken in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and the Department of Health (DOH).

With launching held on January 20 at Campo National High School (CNHS) in Bacuag, Surigao del Norte, DICT Caraga Technical Operations Division Chief Lawrence P. Salang explained that the Bayaniham SIM Project is an initiative of DICT aimed at providing digital access across the country.  

“The project provides free subscriber identity module (SIM) cards with mobile data to public school students and teachers. The members of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) also served as secondary beneficiaries of the project,’ Chief Salang said.

He added that the objective is to help learners and educators conveniently access digital learning materials, and online research especially in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas. “Through this project, DICT seeks to address limited or lack of internet connectivity and ensure that no Filipino learner is left behind in the digital age.”

Meanwhile, Engineer. Roland P. Taganahan, DICT Caraga Connectivity section head, said, “In Caraga region, a total of 66, 720 SIM cards have been allocated under the program. Phase 1 alone covers 27,800 SIM cards distributed to around 60 public schools in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs). Each SIM card comes with a 25 giga bytes (GB) monthly data allocation, ensuring that both learners and educators can access online resources, learning platforms and communication tools essential for academic growth.” 

“From January 20 – 22, the project reached 17 public schools across Bacuag, Gigaquit and Placer with 4,770 sim cards already distributed. Teachers and students welcomed the initiative, noting its potential to transform classroom instruction and administrative efficiency,” he added.

Campo National High School (CNHS) Supreme Secondary Learner Government President Lyka G. Tino thanked the national government for launching the much needed  Bayanihan SIM Project. “This initiative is a significant help to the student community, providing the essential connectivity needed for research, communication, and educational resources.” 

“By easing the financial burden on internet expenses, you have made learning equitable and accessible. This support truly motivates us to excel in our studies and strive for a brighter future,” Tino said.

According to DICT Caraga, the Bayanihan SIM Project is set to expand further, with connectivity support reaching 43 more schools in the coming weeks. This expansion underscores the government’s commitment to bridging the digital divide and sustaining learning continuity beyond school grounds. (SDR, PIA Surigao del Norte with a report from DICT Caraga)

Saturday, 31 January 2026

Butuan City strengthens digital workforce with DICT’s SPARK

By Mariesh F. Celedeña

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — With more Filipinos opting to work from the comfort of their homes rather than commuting daily and battling traffic, the digital economy is now one of the country’s growing sectors. 

Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) shows that in 2024, the Philippine digital economy was valued at P2.25 trillion, an increase from P2.09 trillion in 2023.

Recognizing the vast potential of online employment, the city government of Butuan, through the City Education Development Department (CEDD), partnered with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Caraga to strengthen the city’s digital workforce through the program on Strengthening the Philippine Workforce through Adaptive and Responsive Digital Knowledge (SPARK). 

According to DICT, in Butuan City, a total of 21 scholars have completed the General Virtual Assistance Training 2.0 of the SPARK program. The scholars had undergone a 20-day hybrid training program covering more than 14 modules designed to enhance their competencies in artificial intelligence (AI)-powered tools, social media management, advanced administrative tasks, and client prospecting. The training aimed to equip participants with essential skills for aspiring virtual assistants, including strategies for securing legitimate online employment.

Kate Russel Militante, one of the scholars from Barangay Villa Kananga, was able to secure employment during the training period itself. She emphasized the value of hands-on exposure to actual tools used in remote work. “The training really prepared me for the actual job. Chila Cutamora, our trainer, introduced us to tools that are very useful, which boosted our confidence that we could perform the tasks. She also enlightened us on how to identify legitimate work offers.”

Militante shared that she is now working 40 hours per week as an administrative virtual assistant for a private company based in Kansas, United States, earning $5 per hour.

One of the program’s key modules focused on agency profile creation and client prospecting. Through this module, five scholars were able to secure employment even before completing the program. Collectively, these scholars generated a total income of P215,015 prior to their graduation on January 15.

To date, more than 50 scholars across Agusan del Norte have benefited from the DICT’s SPARK program as the department continues to collaborate with other local government units to further expand and strengthen the digital workforce in the region.

SPARKS is formerly known as the DICT’s “digitaljobsPH” program, which aligns with the Philippine Digital Workforce Competitiveness Act that involves upskilling and reskilling the Filipino workforce to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving digital economy. (MFC, PIA Caraga, with a report from CEDD)

Saturday, 31 January 2026

Bislig City pushes for community recovery with CBDRP launch

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

BISLIG CITY (PIA) — The Community-Based Drug Rehabilitation Program (CBDRP) General Intervention Session 1 was launched on January 21 at the evacuation center in Mangagoy, Bislig City, marking a strong start to the city’s continuing efforts to promote recovery and rehabilitation among individuals affected by drug abuse.

The activity served as a platform to strengthen community-based support systems and encourage collective participation in the recovery process, an initiative aligned with the national government’s anti-illegal drugs agenda, which emphasizes rehabilitation, reintegration, and community involvement.

This also supports the Philippine National Drug Policy and the Comprehensive Local Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Program, which calls for multi-sectoral collaboration and community-based interventions to address the root causes of drug abuse and prevent relapse.

In his message, Mayor Florencio C. Garay, through Milly U. Vios, executive assistant III, extended heartfelt encouragement to the participants and emphasized the city government’s continued support for rehabilitation initiatives. The mayor also underscored the importance of community cooperation in sustaining the program.

A comprehensive overview of the CBDRP was presented by Julius R. Carrido, Bislig City local government operations officer (CLGOO) from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG). Carrido highlighted the program’s objectives, key interventions, and the vital role of community involvement in ensuring the success of rehabilitation efforts.

The Philippine National Police, through the Bislig City Police Station, also expressed strong support for the program. During the session, the police station personnel/official discussed Republic Act 9165, particularly focusing on the requirements for delisting and the legal framework that supports the rehabilitation process.

The activity showcased strong collaboration between the city government of Bislig and its partner agencies, reinforcing their shared commitment to promoting awareness, rehabilitation, and hope for recovery among community members, supporting the national agenda of a drug-free Philippines through community-based solutions. (NGPB, PIA Surigao del Sur)