Wednesday, 22 July 2026

Agusan Norte fisherfolk receive livelihood support to boost fisheries production, income

By Nora L. Molde

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — A total of 201 fisherfolk and community members from 10 associations in Agusan del Norte have received livelihood interventions from the Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) through the Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) Program Phase II, strengthening fisheries production, post-harvest processing, and sustainable income opportunities in rural communities.

The assistance supports the Marcos administration’s agenda of ensuring food security, reducing rural poverty, and improving the productivity and resilience of the country’s agriculture and fisheries sector. The initiative complements President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to expand livelihood opportunities for farmers and fisherfolk, increase local food production, and promote inclusive rural development.

To strengthen aquaculture production, the DA-BFAR Provincial Fisheries Office Agusan del Norte (PFO-ADN), headed by Officer-in-Charge Provincial Fishery Officer Felixberto Tanduyan, distributed feed inputs worth P471,265 to five beneficiary associations from May to June. These include the San Antonio Fisherfolk Organization, Maningalao Freshwater Fishpond Operators Association, Mag-uuma sa Tagbongabong Association, Balang-balang Hatchery Operators Association, and Dalicanan Fisherfolk Association.

The bureau also provided post-harvest equipment to improve value-adding and fish processing activities. Beneficiaries received chest freezers, pressure cookers, heat guns, and glass bottles for food processing, with equipment worth P196,132 turned over to the Maningalao Supermom Association in Las Nieves and the Balang-balang Pass-on Livestock Raisers Organization in Remedios T. Romualdez.

Also, DA-BFAR rolled out fisheries production intervention packages to three fisherfolk associations in Tubay and Jabonga, consisting of shallow-water fish shelters, complete fishing gear and paraphernalia, and chest freezers. The bureau invested P1.41 million in the interventions to enhance fishing operations and improve beneficiaries’ access to essential fisheries equipment and facilities.

To help sustain fish stocks and improve coastal resource management, DA-BFAR also installed four shallow-water fish shelters in identified coastal communities, creating productive fishing grounds while supporting the long-term conservation of marine resources.

Through the SAAD Program Phase II, DA-BFAR continues to strengthen community-based fishery enterprises by providing production inputs, post-harvest facilities, and livelihood support, that enable marginalized fisherfolk to increase household income, improve food security, and contribute to rural economic development.

The DA-BFAR SAAD Program Phase II aims to reduce poverty among vulnerable fishing communities by providing sustainable livelihood interventions that complement the Department of Agriculture’s banner programs and help establish community-based fishery enterprises that promote long-term food security and economic growth. (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte with  reports from BFAR-SAAD and PPMSO-Agusan del Norte)

Wednesday, 22 July 2026

FishCoRe livelihood projects boost incomes, resilience of Agusan Norte sardine fishers

By Nora L. Molde

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — Ninety-six sardine fishers from three fishing associations in Agusan del Norte are set to benefit from more sustainable livelihood opportunities after the Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) turned over more than P12 million worth of milkfish culture cages under the project on Philippine Fisheries and Coastal Resiliency (FishCoRe).

The livelihood assistance, distributed from June 30 to July 2 in Buenavista, Magallanes, and Cabadbaran City, is part of the Modern and Resilient Livelihood Investment (MARLIN) 2.1 Livelihood Subprojects, supporting the Marcos administration’s Bagong Pilipinas agenda of strengthening food security, increasing fisheries productivity, protecting marine resources, and improving the lives of small-scale fisherfolk through sustainable and climate-resilient livelihood programs.

The initiative also advances President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to modernize the agriculture and fisheries sector by expanding livelihood opportunities, increasing local food production, and enhancing the resilience of coastal communities against economic and environmental challenges.

The project equips fisherfolk associations with complete milkfish cage-culture production inputs, including high-density polyethylene (HDPE) fish cages, fingerlings, feeds, nets, drums, and caretaker’s huts. The package awarded to the Cabadbaran City association also covers production inputs for the first and second culture cycles, to ensure continuous operations.

DA-BFAR Caraga Director Omnia B. Olama said the intervention is designed not only to improve incomes but also to help fishing communities prepare for the proposed closed fishing season in Butuan Bay and to promote responsible fisheries management.

“This intervention is more than a livelihood project. It is our way of helping fisherfolk become economically resilient while supporting sustainable fisheries management. We encourage beneficiaries to work together, manage these projects well, and continue protecting our fisheries resources by avoiding illegal fishing,” Olama said.

FishCoRe alternate focal person Loida B. Arreglado described the turnover as a milestone for the beneficiaries, saying the livelihood packages symbolize hope, opportunity, and a shared commitment to improving the lives of fishing communities through sustainable aquaculture enterprises.

The first project worth P3.55 million was awarded to the Calanggaman Tanke Fisherfolk Association (CATAFIA) in Buenavista, benefiting 35 fisherfolk. Another P3.55-million package was turned over to the Barangay Caloc-an Small-scale Commercial Fisherfolks Cluster 1 in Magallanes for 29 beneficiaries, and the Cabadbaran City Deputized Fish Wardens Association received a P4.93-million package for a larger 15-meter HDPE fish cage project benefiting 32 fisherfolk.

For the beneficiaries, the assistance marks the realization of years of preparation.

“This is the day we have been waiting for. Our proposal has finally borne fruit. We will take good care of this project so it will benefit our members for years to come,” said Junalito Gabotero, chairperson of CATAFIA.

Rizalinda L. Abing, MARLIN lead focal  person assured the associations of DA-BFAR’s continued technical assistance and acknowledged the support of local government units in helping fisherfolk prepare proposals that qualified them for the livelihood projects.

Through FishCoRe, DA-BFAR continues to advance ecosystem-based fisheries management by promoting livelihood diversification that balances marine resource conservation with economic development. The initiative supports the national government’s goal of building a more resilient fisheries sector, ensuring stable incomes for fisherfolk while contributing to the country’s food security and inclusive rural development under the Bagong Pilipinas vision. (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte with a report from BFAR Caraga)

Wednesday, 22 July 2026

DOT cites Dinagat Islands as Caraga’s tourism excellence champion

By Renelle L. Escuadro

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — The Province of Dinagat Islands marked another milestone in tourism excellence after the Department of Tourism (DOT) Caraga recognized it as Tourism  Excellence Champion, provincial level, affirming Dinagat Islands’ continued commitment to sustainable tourism development, effective governance, accreditation excellence, tourism statistics management, and strategic partnerships that drive growth across the province.

The province earned a total of 20 awards and recognitions during the 2nd Caraga Tourism Officiers’ Summit and Pasidungog 2026 Awards on July 9 via Zoom with the theme,' Empowering Tourism Officers: Advancing Institutionalization, Governance, and Innovation.'

Led by DOT Caraga Director Ivonnie B. Dumadag, it brought together various local government unit (LGU) officials, tourism officers, and regional line agencies (RLAs) across Caraga’s five provinces and six cities.

The Province of Dinagat Islands received the following awards and recognitions:

Major Awards:

- Caraga Tourism Excellence Champion, provincial level

- Benlen D. Navas, MPA – Plaque of Recognition (Provincial Tourism Officer)

Provincial Awards: 

- Top Performing LGU in Same-Day Visitor Arrivals Recognition, Provincial Level

- Top Performing LGU in Overnight Visitor Arrivals Recognition, Provincial Level

- Top Performing LGU in Tourism Development Planning Recognition, Provincial Level

- Champion, Best Performing Local Government Unit (DOT-Accredited Tourism-Related Enterprises), Provincial Level

- Second Place, Best Performing Local Government Unit (DOT-Accredited Frontliners), Provincial Level

- Accreditation Champion Award: LGUs with Policy Support Complementary to the DOT Accreditation Program

- Training Commendation and Excellence in Training Partnerships for LGUs, Provincial Level

Special Awards:

- Province of Dinagat Islands

- Municipality of Loreto

- Municipality of San Jose

Individual Awards:

- Lea N. Jamot – Best Tourism Accreditation Focal, Provincial Level

- Lea N. Jamot – Best Tourism Statistics Focal Person, Provincial Level

Municipal Awards:

- Municipality of San Jose – Top Performing LGU in Overnight Visitor Arrivals Recognition, Municipal Level

- Municipality of Basilisa – Special Citation for Accreditation Policy Awardee

- Municipality of Libjo – Special Citation for Accreditation Policy Awardee

- Municipality of Loreto – Training Commendation and Excellence in Training Partnership for LGUs, Municipal Level

- Municipality of Basilisa – Training Commendation and Excellence in Training Partnership for LGUs, Municipal Level

- Municipality of Cagdianao – Plaque of Appreciation for Participation and Support to Tourism Expositions

These achievements reflected the dedication, collaboration, and hard work of the provincial and municipal local government units, tourism officers and workers, stakeholders, and partners who continue to elevate the tourism industry of Dinagat Islands, giving more reasons for international and domestic tourists to visit and love the province.

Meanwhile, Dinagat Islands Governor Nilo P. Demerey Jr, the virtual convention’s resource speaker, emphasized how tourism has contributed to economic transformation in the region and its pivotal role in Caraga’s development through the i2FAME (industrialize and innovate fishery, agro-forestry, mining and eco-tourism) strategy.

“Let us always remember that tourists do not see political boundaries. Rather, they experience Caraga as one destination,” Gov. Demerey said.  “May we always sustain the standard of service, innovation, and hospitality in our respective destinations in the region.”

“Let us continue working together – complementing one another’s strengths, promoting both potential and emerging attractions, and building partnerships that create richer and more memorable visitor experiences,” he added. (RLE, PIA Dinagat Islands with a report from Dinagat Islands Tourism and Cultural Office)

Wednesday, 22 July 2026

PH Sports Commission strengthens athletic program in Dinagat Islands with P500K grant

By Renelle L. Escuadro

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) turned over a check for P500,000 to Dinagat Islands Governor Nilo P. Demerey Jr. at the PSC Administration Building, Rizal Memorial Sports Complex (RMSC), Pablo Ocampo Sr. Street, Malate, Metro Manila.

Held on July 10, the financial grant from PSC strengthened the provincial sports program, reinforcing the local government’s commitment to developing grassroots sports and expanding opportunities for Dinagatnon athletes.

The grant was secured through the initiative of Governor Demerey, who consistently advocated for greater investment in sports development.

He said that the grant will be used to procure sports equipment for athletes, schools, and local sports programs across the province. “The acquisition of new sports equipment is expected to improve training conditions, support local competitions, and encourage greater participation in sports among the youth.”

“The assistance is expected to enhance the province’s capacity to nurture athletic talent and prepare local athletes for regional and national competitions,” he added.

The provincial government also expressed its appreciation to the PSC for its support and partnership in advancing sports development in Dinagat Islands, realizing the promise of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to build the Philippines from the ground up.

It remains committed to investing in programs that promote excellence in sports, foster discipline and healthy lifestyles, and provide Dinagatnon athletes with the resources they need to reach their full potential.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Sports Commission, created on January 24, 1990, is the top government sports body under Republic Act 6847, or the Philippine Sports Commission Act.

Serving as the prime catalyst and advocate for the propagation and development of Philippine sports, it is mandated to increase Filipinos’ participation in sports to achieve performance excellence. (RLE, PIA Dinagat Islands with a report from the Office of the Dinagat Islands Governor)

Wednesday, 22 July 2026

Agusan Norte expands education access, advances child welfare

By Nora L. Molde

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — The provincial government of Agusan del Norte continues to strengthen its education and child welfare programs through sustained investments in learning, scholarships, and child protection initiatives, helping build a more educated, empowered, and resilient generation of Agusanons.

Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante said the province remains committed to making education a key driver of sustainable development through strong collaboration with local government units, the Department of Education (DepEd), Congressional Representative Dale B. Corvera, and development partners.

The province’s initiatives support President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Bagong Pilipinas agenda, which prioritizes quality education, human capital development, and the welfare of Filipino children as key pillars of inclusive growth and nation-building. They also complement the Department of Education’s MATATAG Agenda, which seeks to improve learning outcomes and produce future-ready Filipino learners.

“We continue to invest in education because it is one of the strongest foundations of sustainable development. Through the collective efforts of our local government units, DepEd, Rep. Dale B. Corvera, and our development partners, we are expanding opportunities for every Agusanon learner while ensuring that no child is left behind,” Governor Amante said.

The province’s education program has gained significant momentum through the implementation of the MATATAG Curriculum by the DepEd Schools Division of Agusan del Norte and the Schools Division of Cabadbaran City. As a result, Senior High School net enrollment increased from 80.93 percent in 2023 to 92.55 percent in 2025, reflecting improved access to secondary education.

Support from the Assistance and Cooperation for Community Resilience and Development (ACCORD), Aboitiz Foundation Inc., GSIS, National Electrification Administration, Caraga State University, Petron Gasoline, Khan Academy, National Grid Corporation of the Philippines, cooperatives, and other stakeholders further enhanced learning opportunities through classroom and technology support, school infrastructure, feeding programs, and scholarship assistance.

These efforts translated into improved education outcomes, with the Schools Division of Agusan del Norte earning the 2025 Best Continuous Improvement Implementing Division award, while the Schools Division of Cabadbaran City received the Bulawanong Sulo Outstanding Division Hall of Fame Award in the Caraga region.

A cornerstone of the province’s human capital development strategy is the Provincial Scholarship Program, which has supported students pursuing priority courses in Medicine, Agriculture, and Information Technology. The program has already produced 337 graduates, including 55 Latin honor awardees. In 2025 alone, four provincial scholars passed the physician licensure examination and are expected to serve in provincial hospitals, strengthening access to quality healthcare in Agusan del Norte.

One of the program’s success stories is Attorney Florian Faith Jr. P. Bayawa, who credited the provincial government of Agusan del Norte for helping her fulfill her dream of becoming a lawyer through the Provincial Scholarship Program. Inspired by the support she received, she expressed her desire to give back by serving the provincial government and contributing to the continued development of Agusan del Norte.

The provincial government also continues to recognize excellence by granting cash incentives under Provincial Ordinance No. 658-2023 to six Agusanon topnotchers and a visually impaired international medalist from Agusan del Norte who won one gold, two silver, and three bronze medals in the Para Chess Women competition held in Thailand.

Also, the province has intensified programs that safeguard children’s rights and welfare. Through the Child-Friendly Local Governance Audit (CFLGA), the provincial government strengthened coordination with partner agencies, recognizing Jabonga, Las Nieves, and Tubay as the province’s top-performing child-friendly local government units. The assessment helps local governments craft evidence-based policies and interventions that promote children’s welfare and address concerns such as juvenile delinquency.

The province also enhances Bahay Pag-asa operations, ensuring compliance with Department of Social Welfare and Development accreditation standards. In partnership with local government units, the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office, faith-based organizations, and educational institutions, the facility provided educational support, rehabilitation, and reintegration services to 15 children in conflict with the law.

Demonstrating the provincial government’s continuing commitment to inclusive education, Governor Amante also visited Zapanta Valley Elementary School and Zapanta Valley National High School Annex to assess school conditions, engage with teachers and learners, and listen to the concerns of community members and Indigenous Peoples leaders, ensuring that education programs remain responsive to the needs of every Agusanon learner. (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte)