Friday, 19 June 2026

DPWH highlights Oplan Kontra Baha with cleanup drive in Agusan Sur

By Kelvin Kennt R. Generalo

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur  (PIA) — The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Agusan del Sur 2nd District Engineering Office (DEO), recently spearheaded province-wide cleanup activities in support of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s mandate to strengthen the ‘Oplan Kontra Baha campaign.

Anchored on the theme “Build Right, Serve Right,” the district office conducted a cleanup drive on June 11 in Barangay Karaos, and a tree planting activity on June 16 in Barangay Bitan-agan, both in San Francisco, Agusan del Sur. These formed part of DPWH’s 128th anniversary, celebrated through environmental initiatives that promote sustainability, community participation, and disaster risk reduction.

Engineer Gian Carlo S. Toribio, assistant district engineer of the DPWH District II Agusan del Sur, on behalf of the District Engineer Ben Alden R. Serna, shared that the activities demonstrate the agency’s commitment to environmental stewardship alongside infrastructure development and maintenance.

“The agency’s mandate has always been to go beyond infrastructure development. By being good stewards of the environment, the district reaffirms its commitment to building safer, greener, and more resilient communities in the 2nd district of Agusan del Sur,” said Toribio.

As part of the nationwide implementation of Oplan Kontra Baha, chiefs of sections and maintenance personnel cleared waterways of waste, silt, vegetation, and other debris that could obstruct water flow and contribute to flooding, especially during the rainy season. The activity supports DPWH’s continuing efforts to ensure the efficiency of drainage systems and protect communities from flood-related hazards.

The tree planting activity was conducted in coordination with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the barangay local government unit (BLGU) of Bitan-agan. Participating in the activity were DPWH personnel, DENR representatives, Forest Protection Officer Dennis S. Rocero, Officer-in-Charge Community Environment and Natural Resources Officer (OIC-CENRO) Roel A. Rosales, and Punong Barangay Salvador P. Maguinda.

“We are grateful to the DPWH and DENR for conducting the tree-planting activity in our barangay. Through this partnership, a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was signed to ensure the proper care, protection, and maintenance of the planted trees, which will benefit not only the present generation but also future residents of our community,” said Maguinda.

“This initiative allows my constituents to witness and appreciate the commitment and support extended by our partner agencies. More importantly, it encourages community participation and strengthens our shared responsibility in protecting the environment and preserving our natural resources,” he added.

A total of 230 seedlings, consisting of 150 molave, 50 balobo, and 30 mahogany seedlings, were planted to support environmental conservation, watershed protection, and climate resilience efforts in the area.

The activities underscore the DPWH Agusan del Sur 2nd DEO’s commitment to environmental protection, disaster preparedness, and sustainable development, reflecting the agency’s dedication to building safer and more resilient communities beyond its core infrastructure mandate. (KKRG, PIA Agusan del Sur; Photo courtesy of Onwards ADS II)

Friday, 19 June 2026

Caraga achieves internal peace, security status after over 5-decade insurgency

By Renelle L. Escuadro

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — The Caraga region was declared a state of Stable Internal Peace and Security (SIPS) on June 18 in Butuan City, ending the more than five decades of insurgency.

This historic milestone ended the Caraga’s status as a strategic haven and tactical refuge of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA), as it is blessed with dense, mountainous hinterlands and resource-rich ancestral domains.

Before the declaration, the Caraga Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) unanimously approved the resolution declaring SIPS in the region, through a special meeting held on the same day, presided over by Police Brigadier General Marcial Mariano P. Magistrado, regional director of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Caraga and vice chairperson of Caraga RPOC.

Major General Marion T. Angcao, division commander of the 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, presented the rationale of the resolution, especially the dismantling of the NPA’s Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC), including the surrender and neutralization of its top regional leaders.

“With the full dismantling of the NEMRC, the organization no longer possesses the capability to sustain its structure, leadership, and operational activities,” Angcao said.

SIPS vs insurgency-free

According to Caraga RPOC, through the DILG Caraga as head secretariat, “A region declared under SIPS is recognized as having achieved a sustained level of peace where insurgency, armed conflict and other major security threats have been effectively reduced to a manageable level, making the cities, municipalities and provinces in the region safe for development, investment and to have an efficient delivery of government services.”

The members also emphasized that SIPS status does not mean that threats no longer exist – it affirms that security conditions are stable and that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), PNP, and other agencies continue with their efforts to maintain peace and prevent any resurgence of violence.

They further explained that the SIPS status is connected with ‘insurgency-free,’ but they describe different levels of security assessment. “An area can be declared SIPS even if minor or residual threats exist, as long as they are controlled and no longer destabilizing the community.”

“An insurgency-free declaration usually comes after or beyond SIPS, when threats are completely cleared. In practice, SIPS is often seen as a step toward insurgency-free status, but not automatically equal to it,” the members said.

In Caraga, the province of Dinagat Islands was the first to be declared under SIPS on December 12, 2014, followed by Surigao del Norte on March 15, 2024; Agusan del Norte’s proclamation took place on June 5, 2026, while the provinces of Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur were declared under SIPS on June 15, 2026. The highly urbanized city of Butuan was subsequently declared under SIPS on June 16, 2026.

A tandem: peace and development

Dinagat Islands Governor Nilo P. Demerey Jr., Caraga Regional Development Council (RDC) chairperson, underscored the inseparable connection and mutual dependence between peace and development.

He said, the collective efforts in the pursuit of lasting peace and security of the national government agencies, local government units, security sector, civil society organizations, and the communities brought Caraga as the country’s 2nd fastest growing regional growth on Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) in 2024 and 2025.

Also, as chairperson of the Dinagat Islands Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC), he is optimistic that the region’s SIPS status will be sustained, flaunting the province’s over-a-decade SIPS status from December 12, 2014.

“Dinagat Islands is the first in the region and 2nd in the country to receive the SIPS declaration,” Gov. Demerey added.

Meanwhile, as affirmation to the peace and development agenda of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the ceremonial declaration and pronouncement of a state of Stable Internal Peace and Security in Caraga region was attended by dignitaries, including Undersecretary Angelito De Leon of the Department of National Defense (DND); Undersecretary Ernesto Torres Jr., executive director of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC); and Senior Undersecretary Jonathan Ferdinand Miano of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU). (RLE, PIA Dinagat Islands)

Friday, 19 June 2026

DSWD empowers 4Ps youth on leadership, nation-building through SIKAD Batan-on

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur (PIA) — Strengthening the role of young Filipinos in responsible leadership and nation-building, the Tandag City Operations Office of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) conducted the youth development session on SIKAD (Strengthening Inspiration, Knowledge, Action and Discipline) Batan-on 2026: Empowering 4Ps Youth Towards Positive Change in Barangay Maitum.

With the theme, ‘Strengthening Inspiration, Knowledge, Action and Discipline among Youths Towards Transformation, Responsible Leadership and Nation Building,’ the activity brought together Grades 10, 11, and 12 4Ps youth beneficiaries for a series of interactive learning sessions aimed at developing socially responsible, informed, and empowered young citizens.

According to DSWD City Link Michael Montenegro, the initiative forms part of the agency’s continuing efforts to equip 4Ps youth beneficiaries with the knowledge, life skills, and positive values needed to make informed decisions, become active contributors to their communities, and prepare for their future roles as leaders and partners in nation-building

The activity served as a platform for the youth to express themselves, build self-confidence, and foster stronger relationships with their peers while learning about issues that directly affect their lives and future, Montenegro added.

The program opened with a Kumustahan Session facilitated by Lovecel Pearl Suarez, creating a safe and welcoming space where participants openly shared their experiences, aspirations, and concerns. The interactive session encouraged meaningful conversations that promoted emotional well-being and strengthened connections among the youth.

Recognizing the importance of informed decision-making among adolescents, Maricel L. Ello, a registered nurse, discussed the prevention of teenage pregnancy and early marriage. She emphasized the value of proper guidance, reproductive health education, self-awareness, and making responsible choices that support the youth’s educational and personal aspirations.

Another timely discussion focused on Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children and Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (OSAEC-CSAEM), facilitated by Jemima Balili. The session raised awareness about the growing risks faced by young people in the digital space and equipped participants with practical knowledge on protecting themselves from online exploitation and abuse.

Balili also encouraged the youth to become responsible social media users by practicing online safety, respecting others, and remaining vigilant against harmful online activities.

Complementing the discussions, the Barangay Sangguniang Kabataan officials conducted a drug awareness session, highlighting the adverse effects of illegal drugs on an individual’s health, education, family, and future. The youth were encouraged to avoid negative influences and actively participate in positive, productive community endeavors.

For one  participant, the activity reinforced the role of young people in nation-building.

“As a student leader, I am honored to have participated in SIKAD Batan-on 2026 during the youth development session. The session was fun and engaging, as the youth of Barangay Maitum actively participated and shared their ideas and perspectives, reflecting their sense of responsibility as young individuals,” said Jay-ar M. Velasco, former president of the Division Federation Supreme Secondary Learner Government of the Schools Division of Tandag.

He added that the youth-centered activities and relevant topics empowered participants and encouraged them to become actively involved in civic engagement and community development.

“Through activities and sessions like this, young people are empowered and encouraged to actively engage in civic involvement, as they are being shaped to become the future of the nation,” Velasco said.

Aligned with the aspiration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., through SIKAD Batan-on 2026, the DSWD 4Ps continues to strengthen its commitment to developing socially responsible and empowered youth by providing opportunities for learning, leadership, and character-building.

Beyond providing social protection to economically disadvantaged families, the program on Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino invests in the growth and development of young beneficiaries, recognizing that informed, disciplined, and engaged youth play a vital role in building resilient families and stronger communities.

The activity underscored the importance of collaborative efforts among government agencies, local leaders, and the youth sector in nurturing future leaders who can contribute meaningfully to community development and nation-building. (NGPB, PIA Surigao del Sur with a report from DSWD-4Ps) 

Friday, 19 June 2026

Surigao City LGU rolls out rice subsidy in Barangay San Juan

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO, Surigao del Norte (PIA) — To bring government services closer to the communities as mandated by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the city government of Surigao delivered a total of 2,438 rice packs to Barangay San Juan residents.

Each beneficiary family received a 10-kilogram pack of high-quality rice, funded under the national government’s Local Government Support Fund (LGSF) Rice Subsidy Program and implemented in close coordination with the provincial and local government units.  

Marc Caven Salar, officer-in-charge of the Surigao City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), said, “The distribution process was strictly regulated to ensure the aid reached those who needed it most. 

Salar emphasized that the final recipient master list was strictly generated from data provided by the Philippine Statistics Authority’s (PSA) Community-Based Monitoring System (CBMS).

“By utilizing the verified CBMS database from the PSA, we ensure that our social protection programs are targeted and absolutely transparent,” Salar said.

Meanwhile, Nanay Minda, a resident of Barangay San Juan during the distribution expressed gratitude to the government “Ako po si Nanay Minda, isang residente ng Barangay San Juan. Nais ko pong iabot ang aking buong-pusong pasasalamat sa Pangulo sa natanggap naming 10 kilong ayuda ng bigas sa pamamagitan ng LGSF” (I am Nanay Minda, resident of Barangay San Juan. I want to heartily thank the President for the 10-kilo rice that I received  under the LGSF).

“Napakalaking tulong po nito para sa aking pamilya, lalo na sa panahon ngayon na ang hirap magbadyet dahil sa mga gastusin. Ang sampung kilong bigas na ito ay napakalaking bawas sa aming iisipin sa araw-araw. Salamat po sa inyong walang-sawang pag-aalaga at pagtiyak na ang mga ganitong programa ay nakakarating sa aming mga nasa barangay. Ramdam po namin ang inyong kalinga at tapat na serbisyo. Maraming Salamat po,” she said. 

(This is a big help to my family, especially now that it’s very hard to fill the gaps between expenses and income. This 10-kilo bag of rice lessens the daily expense burden. Thank you for the unwavering care and assurance that programs such as this reach our barangay. We feel your sincere service. Thank you.)

The nationwide rollout of the LGSF Rice Subsidy Program aims to cushion vulnerable and low-income Filipino households against food insecurity and economic strains. 

Through direct resource transfers, local government units are empowered to efficiently bridge the gap between national government funds and community-level relief.  

With the distribution phase for Barangay San Juan completed, local officials in Surigao City assured the public that the social service teams will continue their coordinated efforts to roll out the safety net program across other designated areas. (SDR, PIA Surigao del Norte, with a report from CSWDO)

Friday, 19 June 2026

Agusan Norte strengthens economy, advances food security through governance, agriculture gains

By Nora L. Molde

BUTUAN CITY (PIA)  — Agusan del Norte has strengthened its economy, expanded livelihood opportunities, and advanced food security through improved governance and strategic investments in agriculture, Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante reported during her State of the Province Address (SOPA) on Wednesday, June 17. 

Amante said the province’s gains over the past three years reflect the collective efforts of government agencies, local communities, and development partners in delivering better services and creating greater opportunities for Agusanons.

“I stand before you to report not only on where Agusan del Norte stands, but on the progress that we have achieved together. This is not simply an account of projects completed or funds spent, but a reflection of how the collective efforts of our people, our communities, and our partners have translated into better services and greater opportunities for every Agusanon,” she said.

Supporting the national development agenda of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., particularly on food security, agricultural modernization, and inclusive growth, the province posted a 33.84 percent increase in local income from P286 million in 2023 to P383 million in 2025, allowing it to maintain its first-class province status and strengthen its fiscal position.

The province also earned national recognition for its revenue performance, ranking among the country’s top-performing provinces in local source revenue generation and fiscal growth.

Amante emphasized that stronger revenues have enabled the provincial government to expand public services and invest in development priorities.

Beyond fiscal gains, the province continued to improve the lives of Agusanons through partnerships with national government agencies. Through convergence efforts, 35,662 residents received medical and financial assistance, emergency employment, livelihood support, and skills development services, while some P270 million was mobilized for socio-economic assistance programs.

Agriculture remained a key driver of growth, with the provincial government investing in rice, fisheries, coconut, corn, coffee, and livestock development to increase productivity, strengthen value chains, and improve market access for farmers and fisherfolk.

Among the province’s major accomplishments was the establishment of three operational Rice Processing Systems in Jabonga, Cabadbaran City, and Remedios T. Romualdez, helping improve post-harvest efficiency, increase farmers’ incomes, and strengthen local food systems.

Aquaculture interventions in Tubay and Buenavista likewise enabled fisherfolk organizations to produce more than 11 metric tons of milkfish and generate over P1.65 million in sales, while coconut, corn, and coffee development programs expanded livelihood opportunities and improved farm productivity across the province.

The province also intensified veterinary services and disease surveillance, enabling Agusan del Norte to remain resilient against threats such as African Swine Fever and Avian Influenza, safeguarding both food security and livelihoods.

“These accomplishments show that development administration is not only about internal government systems. It is partnering with institutions so that economic gains, public resources, and government programs reach communities more effectively,” Amante said.

She added that the province will continue building on these gains through responsive governance, stronger local economies, and sustained investments in agriculture and human development to ensure that progress reaches every Agusanon. (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte)