PIA News Service - Friday, February 27, 2009

Caraga RLECC lays out plan for 2009

BUTUAN CITY (27 February) – The Regional Law Enforcement Coordinating Committee (RLECC) of Caraga Region convened yesterday (February 26) and layed-out action plans for 2009.

During the meeting, PSSupt Ramon Espiritu, Deputy Regional Director for Operations of PNP-PRO-13 who acted as Presiding Officer called the chairmen of the respective sub-committees to present the plan.

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Stakeholders of the Regional Law Enforcement Coordinating Committee (RLECC) in Caraga Region convened recently and layed-out plans for 2009. (Robespierre C. Tradio, PIA-Caraga)

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Among those who presented the plan of action are the sub-committees on Drug Prevention chaired by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA)-Caraga, Consumer Welfare with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Fire Prevention of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Anti-Trafficking in persons presented by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Traffic Management by the Highway Patrol Group, and Public Information chaired by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA).

Aside from presenting the plans of action, presenters of each sub-committee also made announcements on the thrusts and programs of their respective agencies.

Meanwhile, during the previous meeting of the committee, Department of Tourism (DOT)-Caraga Regional Director Leticia DC Tan who is the Chairman of the Sub-Committee on Tourist Security and Safety presented the action plan.

In her report, she emphasized the insufficient baggage screening machine (x-ray) in the airports and seaports. She also reported that there is a congestion and insufficient space for check-in and departing areas on these ports. Other issues and concerns presented to the council include the bad condition of runway surface, absence of waiting lounge for visitors, no uniform porterage fee, awareness of barangay officials of non-residence staying in the barangay, awareness of all concern agencies on big events of the region, and non-alignment of policies and programs, as well as unaccounted tourist arrivals.

To address the issues and concerns, Dir. Tan presented recommended measures such as procurement of one additional baggage screening machine at the entrance of pre-departure area, expansion of airport terminal building, asphalt overlay, construction of waiting lounge, formulate agreement on uniform porterage fee.

Tan also suggested that barangay officials should have a logbook for non-resident arrivals and there must be a coordination with concern agencies for them to be aware of their roles during big events in the region.

“In order to have exact figure or number of tourist arrivals, tourist visitors are required to register at the tourist assistance center", Dir. Tan said.

Having some of the sub-committees who were not able to present their plan of action or road map, PSSupt Espiritu requested the Secretariat to call the attention of those concerned agencies to present during the next meeting. “Since there are still sub-committees who were not able to present their plan of action, the Secretariat is requested to call the attention of these concerned agencies and require them to present during the next meeting”, he said. (Robert E. Roperos, PIA-Caraga)
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Manufacturing, highest revenue generator in Caraga

BUTUAN CITY (February 27) – The manufacturing sector generated the highest revenue among the economic sectors in the region in 2006 with P6.496 billion.

This is revealed by the National Statistics Office (NSO) Caraga during the Regional Data Dissemination Forum on the 2006 Census of Philippine Business and Industry (CPBI), recently.

This is closely followed by the Mining and Quarrying sector who recorded a whooping P6.361 billion in revenue. Third largest revenue generator is the Wholesale and Retail Trade with P4.471 billion. The fourth highest revenue generator is the Electricity, Gas and Water Supply with P3.394 billion. Fifth is the Financial Intermediation sector with P1.192 billion.

The agriculture sector including hunting, forestry and fishing recorded a total revenue of P596 million in 2006. Private education recorded a revenue of P714 million. Construction has a total revenue of P1.058 billion and hotels and restaurants P336 million.

The lowest revenue generators on the other hand are Real State, Renting and Business Activities; Transportation, Storage and Communication; and Health and Social Work.

Although the manufacturing sector is the highest revenue generator, it also spends the highest with a total cost of P5.596 billion. This is followed by the Wholesale and Retail Trade at P4.267 billion. Third is the Electricity, Gas and Water Supply with a total cost of P2.617 billion.

The fourth highest spender is the Mining and Quarrying sector which has a total cost of P2.579 billion. Fifth is the Financial Intermediation sector with P662 million. The agriculture sector on the other hand has a total cost of P402 million.

Based on the research revenue-cost ratio of the region amounts to P1.4 billion lower than the country’s ratio of P1.6 billion. Further, the agriculture sector records the highest return at P1.48 billion.

The 2006 CPBI covered establishments engaged in 14 economic sectors classified under the amended 1994 Philippine Standard Industrial Classification (PSIC).

The scope of the 2006 CPBI was confined to the “formal sector” consisting of corporations and partnerships, cooperatives and foundations, single proprietorships with employment of 10 or more and single proprietorship with branches.

The 2006 CPBI used stratified systematic sampling with a random start. For establishments with average total employment (ATE) 20 and over, the geographic domain and the industry domain served as the first stratification variable.

For the establishments with ATE less than 20, the geographic domains are the regions and the industry domain, the industry groups. Employment size was used as the second stratification variable. (Lovely Laudette Gamba, PIA-13)


Farmers appeal needed reforms for CARP!

AGUSAN DEL NORTE - Civil Society and Farmers held street demonstration to urge the government to pass into law immediately the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program Extension with Reforms (CARPER). They held a rally to voice their desire and support for House Bill No. 4077 last January 30, 2009 at Butuan City.

The parade started at the Agrarian Reform Information and Marketing Center (AIM-C) at exactly 8:30 in the morning going through Capitol Compound all the way to Montilla Boulevard and ended at Rizal Park for a short Rally. Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) have spoken and gave their testimonies on the services they have acquired through the CARP Program.

More than 1,200 farmers from different Agrarian Reform Communities (ARC) in Agusan Norte, NGOs, FEDARCCO Members, PO Leaders, Youth and Government Agencies participated in the Rally with placards to voice out their clamor and anger at landlord-dominated Congress who prefer to give lands to foreigners than Filipino Farmers.

The Joint Resolution as agreed by the lawmakers extending the implementation of the said Program for a period of 6 (six) month has set to expire on June 30, 2009. The higher authorities said that the CARP will continue but only Compulsory Acquisition (CA) is excluded in the program.

The farmers in Agusan del Norte expressed their collective sentiments to stop Congress from emasculating CARP and demand to continue the Compulsory Acquisition (CA) mode of acquiring lands.

“Without Compulsory Acquisition, many beneficiaries, who desire to own a land, will not have a chance because no landowner will volunteer.” FEDARCCO Chairman Isidro Madaje said, “ This historic March Rally are just only the beginning,” He further said.

Last November 21, 2008, same farmer leaders and Civil Society converged and tried to solicit the commitment of the legislators of 1st District and Second District in Agusan del Norte and actually visited the home and offices of Hon. Congressman Joboy Aquino and Hon. Congressman Edilmero A. Amante to fully support the extension of the said program and to expedite the passage of House Bill No. 4077

After the parade, Press Conference was also held by representatives of the Farmers, FEDARCCO Officials and PO Leaders before the local tri-media group. (Gil E. Miranda, DAR-Agusan del Norte/ PIA-Caraga)


Cebuano News: Gov. Ace Barbers dako ang pagpakabana sa nagpadayon karon nga kalisod sa paghanap ug trabaho; Special Recruitment Authority sa PMTC gipahigayon

SURIGAO DEL NORTE (27 February) - Ubay-ubay nga mga jobseekers ang mapasalamaton sa kasamtangang administrasyon sa probinsya ubos na sa pagpangalagad ni Gov. Ace Barbers sa mga paningkamot niini nga mahatagan ug trabaho ang uban natong mga kaigsuonang Surigaonon nga sa dugay na walay bisag gamay nga pangita diin ang Provincial Manpower Training Center mipahigayon sa ilang Special Recruitment Authority niadtong adlaw nga huwebes, Pebrero 19, ug 20, 2009 didto na sa ilang buhatan sa Kapitolyo.

Sa maong kalihukan, nakita sa buhatan sa PMTC nga pinanguluhan sa PESO Manager niini nga si Mr. Amor Morales ang nagpadayon karon nga kalisod sa paghanap ug trabaho tungod daghan sa atong mga kaigsuonan ang interesado niini diin mikabat sa halos 159 ka mga aplikante ang malaumon ug madasigon na miadto sa Kapitolyo sa panghinaut nga sila makapasar ug mapili para sa mga available job order.

Sa 159 ka mga aplikante adunay 49 nga mga aplikante ang migawas nga kwalipikado sa mga posisyon sa mga gikinahanglang Nurses para sa USA, Auto Electrician, Bartender, Cashier, Waiter/Waitress, Mason/Carpenter, Tile Fitter/Sitter, Accountants Computer Programmer, Welding Technician, Pipe Fitter, Welders, Diesel Engine Mechanic, Kusinero, Cleaner ug uban pa.

Malaumon si Gob. Ace Barbers nga ang maong kalihukan nakahatag ug dakong tabang sa mga katawhan hilabi na karong panahona nga kita nahiagum sa dakong epekto sa krisis nga dili lamang mitumaw sa atong katilingban kung dili pati na sa tibuok kalibutan. Dako ang kalipay ug kadasig ang nasinati sa maong mga suwerteng napili tungod ilang nakita nga ang maalagarong gobernador nagtuman gayud sa iyang mga saad ug pinaagi niini, ilang namatud-an nga ang iyang serbisyo tiunay alang sa kalambo-an sa tanan. (SdN PGO-Media Bureau/ PIA-Surigao City)


POLICE REPORTS
By PO3 Arturo Suganob Campania


Report on illegal logging

On February 25, 2009 at 12:00 noon at Sitio Iba, Barangay Datu, Pilar, Surigao del Norte, PNP personnel of Pilar Municipal Police Station led by PSINSP Krisopher Ang Cauilan conducted foot patrol and recovered abandoned sawn lumber approximately 101 board feet with an estimated market value amounting to Php 3,000.00.

Recovered lumbers are now in the custody of Pilar Municipal Police Station for proper disposition. (PNP-13/ PIA-Caraga)


Report on illegal gambling

On February 25, 2009 at 11:00 in the morning at Barangay Pili, Malimono, Surigao del Norte, PNP personnel of Malimono Municipal Police Station led by SPO1 Magaluna conducted operation against illegal gambling which resulted to the apprehension of the suspects identified as Jojet Escalante, 28 years old, married; and Radny Mota, 36 years old, single, both “swertres” collectors and residents of Tagbuyawan, Mainit, Surigao del Norte.

Confiscated from the suspects’ possession were two pieces tally sheet, five pieces half-length tally sheet, one ball pen and bet money amounting to Php 224.00 in different denominations.

Arrested persons are now under the custody of Malimono Municipal Police Station for proper disposition and filing of appropriate charges in court. (PNP-13/ PIA-Caraga)


PNP arrests wanted persons

On February 25, 2009 at 11:45 in the morning at Burgos Street, Butuan City, PNP personnel of Butuan City Police Station 1 led by SPO3 Hemenigildo Narciso arrested the suspect identified as Mantud Delos Reyes Jr, 44 years old and resident of Emenville Subdivision, Butuan City.

Suspect was arrested by virtue of warrant of arrest (WOA) issued by Hon Judge Eduardo S Casals of Regional Trial Court (RTC), Branch 1, Butuan City dated February 18, 2009 docketed under CC number 13281 for the crime of rape with no bailbond recommended.

Subject person is now detained at Butuan at Butuan City Police Station 1 for proper disposition.

Also, on February 26, 2009 at 7:30 in the morning at Purok-4, Barangay Sta Teresita, Bayugan City, PNP elements of Bayugan City Police Station led by PINSP Jumark Q Caña arrested the suspect identified as Jose Bayla, 52 years old, married and resident of said place.

Suspect was arrested by virtue of WOA issued by Hon Judge Eliseo M Campos of MTCC of Bayugan City dated January 28, 2009 docketed under CC number 8874-08-J-51 for the crime of estafa with recommended bailbond amounting to Php 5,000.00.

Arrested person is now detained at Bayugan City Police Station for proper disposition. (PNP-13/ PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Thursday, February 26, 2009

REDCOP trains Mindanao coordinators, advocates on kidney-disease prevention

BUTUAN CITY (26 February) – “Ngayong panahon ng krisis, bawal ang magkasakit, kaya’t alagaan natin ang ating kalusugan lalo na ang kidney!”

This is what Dr. Remedios de Belen-Uriarte, Renal Disease Control Program (REDCOP) Program Manager pointed out as an opening salvo of her speech during the “Training on the Prevention of Kidney Disease for Renal Disease Control Program (REDCOP) Coordinators of Mindanao Area” held recently in Davao City.

Dr. Remedios de Belen-Uriarte discusses the objectives of the activity and emphasized the importance of advocating the prevention of kidney disease during the “REDCOP Training of Trainors and Advocates on the Prevention of Renal Disease” for Mindanao held recently in Davao City. (PIA-Caraga)

In her speech, Dr. Uriarte emphasized the importance of advocating kidney disease prevention.

According to Dr. Uriarte, kidney disease is the 10th cause of mortality/morbidity in the country based on the mortality statistics of the Department of Health (DOH). She also said that according to Regional reports, kidney disorder is the sixth or seventh among the ten leading causes of mortality/morbidity.

“It is alarming that as of 2007, 10.644% is the estimated incidence rate of end –stage renal disease (ESRD) in the country… And this is the same number of patient who will undergo renal transplantation”, she said.

Photo shows some of the participants together with the Resource Speakers during the recently-concluded “REDCOP Training of Trainors and Advocates on the Prevention of Renal Disease” for Mindanao held recently in Davao City. Seated from left to right are Staff Director Belinda Capul of PIA-Central Office, Dr. Reynaldo Lesaca, REDCOP Program Manager Dr. Remedios de Belen-Uriarte, and Ms. Minda Quitoriano who are the Resource Persons of the workshop. (PIA-Caraga)


Dr. Uriarte also said that from 2002 to 2007, new patients who underwent dialysis increased by ten percent per year.

She also stressed that almost 3,000 patients out of 7,000 have diabetes mellitus. “And diabetes may cause renal/kidney disease”, Uriarte said.

It was learned that in 2007, 1,046 patients underwent kidney transplant where the cost of renal replacement therapy is Php2,500 to 3,000 per session for dialysis while kidney transplant costs Php500,000 to 1 million pesos excluding of expenses for laboratory and medicines.

“Aside of being so expensive considering that the patient has enough money to pay for his hospital and laboratory bills, renal disease must be prevented because there is a shortage of organ donor”, Dr. Uriarte said.

The two-day training-workshop aimed to develop key resource persons such as doctors, nurses, medical technicians, and other personnel on the prevention of kidney disease who will serve as trainers in the succeeding training activities. (Robert E. Roperos, PIA-13)


Surigao Norte advocates to launch war vs human trafficking

Surigao del Norte (26 February) - Surigao del Norte advocates are set to sign a covenant on Monday, March 1 declaring an all out-war against human trafficking.

Representatives of various organizations from different sectors including faith-based organizations, multinational companies, marketing organizations, transport industries, communities, law enforcers, government agencies, private organizations, and media are in unison to stop the endless flow of Filipino women and children who are trapped in the hands of criminal traffickers and suffer inhumane treatment as sex slaves and bonded laborers, stripped of their freedom and dignity under the guise of safe migration.

The commitment signing is part of 2009 Women’s Month celebration activities of the province. This year's celebration is anchored on the theme "Babae, Yaman Ka Ng Bayan."

Visayan Forum Foundation Inc. (VFFI), an NGO who works for the protection and justice of the trafficked women and children, said the covenant will put into action the pledges of the different stakeholders to inform the public; report and prevent trafficking activities; and protect and empower victims of human trafficking. (PIA-Surigao del Norte with reports from VFFI)


Cebuano News: Programa ni Gov. Ace Barbers sa maayong panglawas nagpadayon; Lungsod sa Socorro nakapahimulos sa Medical/Dental and Tuli Outreach Program sa PHO

Surigao del Norte (26 February) - Sa kanunayng tinguha ni Gob. Ace Barbers nga mahatagan ang tibuok katawhan sa Surigao del Norte sa ilang mga panginahanglanon tungod sa hilabihang kalisod sa panahon karon, siya hugot nga nagmando nga iyang mga programa kanunay nga magpadayon ug mapatuman sa tanan kalungsuran sa probinsya hilabi na ang mga programa sa maayong panglawas.

Ang buhatan sa Provincial Health Office uban sa pakigtambayayong sa uban pang mga departamento sa Kapitolyo mituyo ug bisita sa Lungsod sa Socorro aron sa paghatag sa ilang medical, dental ug libreng tuli alang sa tanan agig pagselebrar sa Adlaw nan Socorro niadtong adlaw nga Biyernes, Pebrero 20, 2009.

Sa maong kalihukan, adunay halos 781 ka pasyente ang ilang giatiman ug gitambalan diin mikabat sa 224 ka pasyente ang nagpaibot sa ilang mga ngipon, 27 ka tawo ang nagpa dental consultation, 124 ka bata ang gituli ug adunay 76 ka mga kababainhan ang nag pa papsmear.

Dugang pa niini, sa maong kalihukan, ang PHO uban sa pakig-hiusa sa mga empleado sa Caraga Regional Hospital Blood Bank mipahigayon usab sa ilang bloodletting activity diin adunay 44 nga mag residente sa Socorro ang boluntaryong mi donate sa ilang dugo.

Gikalipay pag-ayo sa mga residente sa Lungsod sa Socorro ang kinasingkasing nga pagbisita sa medical practitioners pinaagi na sa atong Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Audie Relliquete aron sa pagpanghatag og mga libreng tambal kanila. Dako gayod ang ilang pasalamat sa atong maalagarong gobernador, Robert Ace Barbers tungod sa kayo ug kabuotan niini nga way laing gihuna-huna kung dili ang kaayuhan sa tibuok katawhan. (PGO-Media Bureau/ PIA-Caraga)


Church–Led Farmers’ Pilgrimage for CARPER!

Agusan del Norte (February 26) -- A historic event, initiated by Civil Society of Northern Mindanao, graced and given life by Most Rev. Juan De Dios M. Pueblos, D.D. of Butuan City, staged a rally at Saint Joseph Cathedral Pastoral Center, Butuan City on February 13, 2009.

More than fifty protesting farmers from Sumilao, Bukidnon supported by Peoples’ Organization, Youth, Civil Society and Government Sectors staged their historic walk from Bukidnon and arrived in the afternoon in Butuan City. According to the farmers, their enthusiasm and strong desire to reach Manila is inspired by the goal to request Congress and Senate particularly President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to extend Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program with Extension Reforms by passing into law House Bill No. 4077.

The farmers were warmly welcomed by Most Rev. Juan De Dios M. Pueblos, D.D. Archbishop of Butuan City, who gave His strong support, prayers, encouragement and heart warming message to the farmers. Other multi-sectoral groups showed in their Christian exchange of welcome and gave their solidarity support to the Sumilao Farmers.

“This is the day when Sumilao Farmers is facing another challenge. Their fight is not for their own cause but it’s all about the fight of all farmers to own a land in Mindanao and not for the foreigners.” Archbishop Juan De Dios M. Pueblos said. “Ang yuta dili ginama sa mga kamut sa tawo, ang yuta gihulma sa Dios isip gasa ngadto sa katawhan. Pagbatok sa kalisud usa ka pamaagi sa pag-panday og kalinaw.”, Land is not the creation of man, it is a gift from God, fighting poverty is a means of building peace,” He added.

Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer II, Andre B. Atega, in Agusan del Norte, also expressed his ardently support to Sumilao Farmers. He quoted the slogan “Land for the farmers, NOT for the foreigners” and “CARP for the farmers, Cha-cha for the Farmers, NOT for Foreigners.”

PARO Atega further said, “Let us support CARPER or House Bill 4077 cause this Bill gives Filipino farmers Social Justice, Peace and Development and enables farmers realized their dreams to own a land and uplift their living conditions and also empowered Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries.”

“Acquiring a land is a great responsibility to cultivate and develop so that we pay its value to the government. Philippine Archipelago are absolutely depleting comprising 90 million Filipinos living in 30 million hectares of land.” as PARO Atega added.

The said forum aimed to give support to the Sumilao Farmers and discussed the importance regarding Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program Extension with Reforms (CARPer) - One of the keys to respond the challenges among farmers who contributed so much effort to realize their dreams. The power of their vision to support CARP program blots in the heart of every farmer to reach out the genuine Agrarian Reform. Their trust and sacrifices can trigger other farmer sectors to join hand-in-hand for their clamors until victory comes in their lives. (Gil E. Miranda, DAR-Agusan del Norte/ PIA-Caraga)


POLICE REPORTS
By PO3 Philip Amer Posas Mazo


Report on shooting incident

On February 24, 2009 at 10:40 in the evening at Barangay Carmen, Loreto, Dinagat Islands, a certain Arnel Cortez, 30 years old, married, and resident of Sitio Busay, Barangay Carmen, Loreto, Dinagat Islands was fatally shot on his neck over an undetermined motive by the suspect.

Victim suffered a gunshot wound on his neck and died later. The suspect was identified as Ezekiel Acros, 42 years old, single, also a resident of the same place.

Residents of Barangay Carmen rushed Cortez to Loreto District Hospital where he was pronounced Dead on Arrival (DOA) by the attending physician.

Suspect voluntarily surrendered to Loreto Municipal Police Station including the weapon used a caliber .45 pistol with serial number CJ131461. (PNP-13/ PIA-Caraga)


Report on robbery incident

On February 24, 2009 at 2:00 in the afternoon at Purok-1 Barangay 4, San Francisco, Agusan del Sur, the Beatriz Marketing situated at the above-mentioned place was held-up by two suspects armed with cal .357 revolver.

The suspects divested three units of Nokia cellular phones (model: 2 units of nokia 1208 and 1 unit nokia 1650) with estimated value of Php 10,000.00.

Upon receipt of the report, elements of San Francisco Municipal Police Station led by PI Joel S Mendez, COP rushed to the crime scene and conducted manhunt operation which resulted to the arrest of the suspects identified as Edgar Gomez, 24 years old, single, a resident of Barangay Anibongan, Lianga, Surigao del Sur, and Janelito Dotollo, 30 years old, married and a resident of Barangay San Pedro, Lianga, Surigao del Sur.

Both suspects were found out active CAFGU members who also resided at San Francisco town.

Recovered from their possession are one unit cal .357 revolver with serial number 291936 with four (4) live ammo and three (3) cellular phones. (PNP-13/ PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Surigao del Sur Gov delivers SOPA

TANDAG CITY, SURIGAO DEL SUR - Governor Vicente T. Pimentel delivered recently the State of the Province Address (SOPA) loaded with major accomplishment report for 2008 under his administration at the Seminar Hall, Capitol Hills, this city.

Vice Governor Librado Navarro together with the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) Members, Administrator from first and second Congressional District as representative in the absence of two Congressmen, Cong. Philip A. Pichay and Cong. Florencio Garay, Provincial Administrator Johnny T. Pimentel and staff, Department heads from the National Agencies (NGA), Non Government Organization (NGO), Provincial Heads, PNP, Col. Danilo T. Fabian from 401st Brigade and Lt. Col. Benjamin Pedralvez from 58IB , Mayors and Vice Mayors from different Municipalities of this province, are among those who joined with the crowd witnessing the activity.

To highlight the event, the Governor called President Gloria Gloria Macapagal Arroyo as a “Compassionate” that catches the attention of the crowd.

According to him, “PGMA is the only President of the Republic who listens to our agonies by addressing our gargantuan problems that have been the hindrance for us to attain optimum economic development.”

“PGMA allocated the amount of P2.5 billion for the concreting projects from the municipality of Cortes down to south up the boundary of Surigao del Sur and Davao Oriental,” he continued.

“We will be forever grateful to the President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and we will always remember her as the greatest president this country ever had”, the Governor added.

One of his major accomplishments last year was the renovation of the Capitol building spending P60 million. He said, “I demolished the gloomy and ugly sight of the old and dilapidated capitol building. A new edifice now stands proudly and elegantly as our province’s most treasured building above capitol hills.”

The Governor said, “last year alone, the 18 units of spring Development Project level II have been installed in the amount of P2.454 million”, which according to him, “it has been my noble intention to provide clean and potable water to all up to the remotest sitios of our province.”

The Provincial Government expended P11 million for Local School, Board (LSB), salaries for volunteer teachers and building of classrooms and DepEd Athletic Meets.

In addition, “Alay ng Probinsiya Scholarship Program” has been continuously helping poor but deserving students.

Governor Pimentel presented to the crowd, Ma. Lady Lou Sabanal, a graduate student from Surigao del Sur Polytechnic State College (SSPSC) here, benefited this program who recently passed the Civil Engineering licensure Examination and presently employed as Casual Engineer 3 of Provincial Engineering Office (PEO).

The Governor also congratulated Provincial Administrator Johnny Pimentel for being one of the awardees last year as most Outstanding Public Official of CARAGA by the Civil Service Commission (CSC). He was also nominated for the same award in the National level.

He also congratulated two dynamic uniformed officers: Pol. Supt. Richard dela Rosa of the PNP and Lt. Col. Benjamin S. Pedralvez, Jr., Battalion Commander of the 58th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army for their exemplary service to the province of Surigao del Sur and to our Nation.

Meanwhile, “Tourism Industry in the Province is alive and moving notwithstanding the accessibility problem, is the influx of visitors and guests based on statistical data coming from tourism related establishments,” Governor Pimentel said.

Some accomplishments mentioned yesterday were the implemented infra structure projects funded by Provincial and National Government are the following: Rehabilitation/Maintenance of Provincial, barangay, and farm-to-market roads, total length was 199.77 kms. 11 units of bridges, constructed/repaired, Improvement/development projects were implemented in 12 different sites.

Provincial funded construction Projects, completed last year are the following: Construction of additional private rooms of the district hospitals, 6 in Bislig City, 6 in Hinatuan and 6 in Lianga district hospitals, the project cost is P7.165 million; Construction of Legislative Building Priovincial Capitol of the South, cost to P2.6 million; Concreting of Tigao Provincial road, project cost P2 million. Installation of additional seven units Tandag Lighting facilities in San Agustin Norte, Project cost P284, 237.00; Concreting of Lianga Comnprehensive National High School, cost to P3 million; Construction of Provincial Guest House, Project cost P4.585 million; Construction of Provincial Guest House Perimeter Fence, project cost P1 million; On-going of renovation of Lingig District Hospital, project cost P3 million.

On-going renovation of Lianga District Hospital project cost P1 million; On-going construction of Provincail FM Radio Station, Project cost 2.8 million.

National Funded Construction projects completed last year: Rehabilitation of Provincial Capitol Road, Phase II (P1.919 million); Rehabilitation of Maticdum-Mabuhay Farm-to-Market road, project (P1.5 million); Construction of mabuhay-Himat-e Farm-to-Market road, (P2 million);
Construction of Himat-e-Cayale Farm-to Market Road (P2 million); Construction of Unidos-Jubang Farm-to-Market road project (P4.5 million); Re-gravelling of Victoria Soong Road (2.5 million); Re-gravelling of Bolhoon-Haguimitan Farm-to-Market road (P2.5 million).

Lastly Governor Pimentel said, “All these developmental plans and goals would not be realized without durable and lasting peace”.

The presentation of 2008 Accomplishment Report of Governor Pimentel last to one hour and 15 minutes and was aired live province-wide thru the newly installed Provincial FM station in Bislig and dxJS Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag. (Nida Grace B. Tranquilan, PIA Tandag)


POLICE REPORTS
By PO3 Arturo Suganob Campania


Report on illegal logging

On February 23, 2009 at 2:45 in the afternoon at Sitio Inadan, Barangay Magroyong, San Miguel, Surigao del Sur, PNP elements of San Miguel Municipal Police Station led by PSINSP Edwin Noguerra conducted operation against illegal logging which resulted to the confiscation of 119 pieces of assorted sizes of abandoned sawn lawaan lumber with an estimated market value of Php 49,500.00.

Confiscated lumbers were properly turned-over to PENRO for proper disposition. (PNP-13/ PIA-Caraga)


Recovery of carnapped motorcycle

On February 23, 2009 at 1:00 in the morning at Barangay San Agustin Sur, Tandag City, one unit single motorcycle Chunlan, color blue without plate number was found in the possession of a certain Eugene Adalim Ranario, of legal age and resident of said place by Barangay Captain Cirilo Adane together with Barangay Tanod identified as Alexander Ranario.

When confronted by said officials, the suspect assaulted them by attempting to stab them using a kitchen knife which forced Barangay Captain to shot the suspect with his cal .45 pistol colt MK IV with serial number 919293.

Said motorcycle was positively identified by its owner identified as Gorgonio Azarcon.

Barangay Captain Adane turned over the suspect and deposited his firearm to PNP personnel of Tadag City Police Station. Case for carnapping and direct assault were already filed against the suspect at the Office of the Provincial Prosecutors Office, Tandag City. (PNP-13/ PIA-Caraga)


PNP arrests wanted persons

On February 24, 2009 at 5:00 in the morning at Purok-5, Don Francisco, Butuan City, PNP elements of Butuan City Police Station-4 led by PSINSP Ronaldo Villamor Plaza arrested the suspect identified as Maritess Culob Gallor, 32 years old, married and resident of Purok-6, Maibo, Butuan City.

Suspect was arrested by virtue of warrant of arrest (WOA) issued by Hon Judge Francisco F Maclang of Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 3,Libertad, Butuan City dated November 20, 2008, docketed under CC number 13164 for murder with no bailbond recommended.

Arrested person is now detained at said station for proper disposition.

Also, on the same date around 8:00 in the morning at Purok-8, Poblacion, Trento, Agusan del Sur, PNP personnel of Trento Municipal Police Station led by PINSP Celso M Acero arrested the suspect identified as Armida Tundag Havana, 56 years old, married and resident of said place.

Said suspect was arrested by virtue of WOA issued by Hon Judge Eliseo M Campos of MCTC, Trento, Agusan del Sur, dated February 24, 2009, docketed under CC number 2583 for the crime of other deceit.

Subject person is now detained at said station for proper disposition. (PNP-13/ PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Tuesday, February 24, 2009

DENR warns timber dealers, wood processing plant operators against coddling with timber smugglers

BUTUAN CITY - Legitimate operators of mini sawmill, wood processing plant and lumber dealers in Butuan City have been warned against coddling with timber smugglers.

DENR Regional Executive Director for Caraga Region Edilberto S. Buiser made the warning on the heels of the intensified campaign of the DENR against illegal logging activities.

At the same time, CENR Officer Jaime C. Acebu has also met the members of the Butuan Integrated Group of Band-Sawmill Operators and Lumber Dealers (BIGBOLD) to discuss about the new rules and regulations being imposed by the DENR in line with the campaign.

The “BIGBOLD”members were apparently more concerned of their situation in the face of the intensive crackdown by the DENR particularly against timber smuggling and poaching since the start of the year.

Acebu who arranged for the meeting with the mini saw mill operators has sought the full cooperation of the organization as he requested them to heed the new regulations on the transport of forest products being implemented by the DENR.

Director Buiser and the PENRO of Agusan del Norte Rosendo Asunto have both asked the operators of all established wood processing plants in the city to heed the standing policy of the DENR about the transport of forest products to Cebu City.

PENRO Asunto has always emphasized to the group that one of the requirements for the issuance of transport documents on lumber and other building materials is the sales invoice as provided for under PD 205 section 79. The non-issuance of sales invoice, he said, shall be a ground for the suspension of license for a period of not less than 2 years.

CENRO Acebu said some mini-sawmill operators have likewise been asked to secure valid licenses to justify their businesses so that they can earn legitimate income instead of antagonizing the government of revenues needed to spur development of infrastructure in the countryside.

The operators and owners of wood processing plants made have assured the DENR officials of their full cooperation and support on all the programs of the government particularly on the anti-illegal logging campaign.

The DENR Caraga Region has intensified its campaign against timber smuggling throughout the region in line with the declaration of Secretary Jose Atienza, Jr.for 2009 as the “Law Enforcement Year”. The declaration has also emphasized the Department’s stepped-up campaign to protect the country’s environment and natural resources.

Secretary Atienza has made it clear that “the DENR will give more dedication and seriousness in effort to protect the environment, including the land, air, water and forests, against environmental violators.” They will be pursued guided by our environmental laws,”

“I am confident that year 2009 can make the difference. Aside from the fact that we have 42 environmental laws that give us more teeth in our fight against environmental violators, the judiciary is also taking a more active role in protecting nature and the country’s environment,” Atienza said.

CENRO Acebu has encouraged the members to put up a building where they can hold meetings to strengthen their organization and serve as their office where the DENR could easily send communications particularly on matters regarding new policies, rules and regulations concerning forestry matters. (Eric Herzon F. Gallego, DENR-13/ PIA-Caraga)


Caraga RDC approves new resolutions

Six resolutions were approved by the Regional Development Council of the Caraga Region during its 58th Full Council Meeting held at the Hanuman Hall, Goat2geder Hotel and Restaurant in Butuan City on February 19, 2008.

The resolutions push for the extension of the Philippine-Australian Community Assistance Program (PACAP), the implementation of the Rationalization Plan in the government sector, the designation of a Presidential Assistant for Caraga, and endorsement of Caraga Business Conference (CBC) resolutions No. 3, 4 and 5, series of 2008. The CBC Resolution No.3 seeks the creation of a Convention Bureau under the supervision of the Regional Tourism Council. The CBC Resolution No. 4 calls for a public-private partnership between the local government units and the business community of Caraga as key players for socio-economic development. And the CBC Resolution No. 5 requests Her Excellency Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to order the Bureau of Internal Revenue to stop the implementation of Revenue Regulation No. 13-2007 prescribing the rules on the advance payment of value added tax/percentage tax on the transport of naturally-grown and planted timber products.

The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Regional Office for Caraga presented the topic, “Global Financial Crisis: Its Impact in Caraga Region and Our Roadmap for Rebound,” which summarizes the output and strategies from the Global Financial Crisis (GFC) Resiliency Planning Workshop held on February 12, 2009. A suggestion to conduct a road show on the Global Financial Crisis and the Region’s strategies at the provinces of the region to promote awareness and support was affirmed by the body.

Also presented was the Comprehensive Livelihood Employment Emergency Program (CLEEP), a short-term mechanism to address the employment problem faced by the vulnerable sectors. Director Chona T. Mantilla of the Department of Labor and Employment Regional Office XIII expounded on the employment situationer covering different industries in the region affected by the GFC while the Philippine National Police Regional Office XIII discussed the effects of the GFC on crime statistics.

The resolutions and issues requiring action from the Cabinet or from the President were referred to Tourism Secretary Ace H. Durano, the Region’s Cabinet Official for Regional Development and the steward for CLEEP in Caraga. Secretary Durano was represented in the meeting by his undersecretary, Phineas Alburo. (Ian G. Miculob, NEDA-Caraga)


PNP receives more new vehicles for PRO 13

Police Regional Office 13 (PRO 13) was as one of the beneficiaries of the 12 Toyota Hilux, 12 motorcycles and two units of Innova PNP vehicles held recently during the Traditional Monday Flag Raising Ceremony at the Regional Head Quarter.

The distribution was in accordance with the Issuance Directives Number DL2-2009-01-477 to 488-PNP for the beneficiary of 12 Toyota Patrol Jeep (4X2) Hilux, Issuance Directives Number DL2-2008-01-720 to 731 for the beneficiary of 12 XR 200cc Honda motorcycle and Issuance Directives Number DL2-2009-01-614 to 615 for the beneficiary of two Light Transport Vehicles Toyota Innova from the Directorate for Logistics, National Headquarters, Camp Crame, Quezon City.

PCSUPT Jaime Eloreta Milla, PRO 13 Regional Director managed the distributions together with the Chief Logistics PSUPT Ronaldo Rivero Cabral, also of PRO 13.

This activity is in relation with the PNP Facilities Development the number 3 Key Result Area in the Integrated Transformation Program of the PNP. Among those recipients of said PNP HILUX vehicles are the municipalities of Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte; Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte; Bayugan City; Loreto, Dinagat Islands; Libjo, Dinagat Islands; 144th RMG COY; Alegria, Surigao del Norte; Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte; San Benito, Surigao del Norte; Socorro, Surigao del Norte; Tubod, Surigao del Norte; and Lanuza, Surigao del Sur.

For the Honda XR 200, also 11 municipalities and one city received the vehicles which are Cabadbaran City; Magallanes, Agusan del Norte; Tubay, Agusan del Norte; La Paz, Agusan del Sur; Sibagat and Talacogon, Agusan del Sur; Basilisa, Surigao del Norte; Tubajon, Dinagat Islands; Malimono, Surigao del Norte; Tagana-an, Surigao del Norte; Lianga, Surigao del Sur; and Marihatag, Surigao del Sur.

Meanwhile, Surigao City and San Jose, Dinagat Islands received the Toyota Innova.

The activities are graced by the presence of their local executives such as Mayors, Vice Mayors and Sanggunian Bayan (SB) Members of the receiving municipality. Also present during the program is National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) Assistant Regional Director Florita Micayabas.

The aim of which is to upgrade physical facilities and equipment in support to Police Field Operations, including the updating of Police Equipment Standards and the development of a Multi-Year Financing and Procurement Plan, development and upgrading of the facilities, equipment and physical set-up of the PNP and the provision of model infrastructure for Police Stations and Sub-Stations in the country. (PCINSP Nelly T Villagarcia, PNP-13/ PIA-Caraga)



POLICE REPORTS
By PO3 Philip Amer Posas Mazo


Report on alleged robbery incidents

On February 23, 2009 around 11:45 in the morning, one Toyota Revo color blue with plate number XGG 512 driven by a certain Jessie Paredes, 36 years old, married and a resident of Lucky Village, Barangay Ambago, Butuan City was robbed while parked at the parking lot of Gaisano Mall of Butuan City.

Culprit/s broke the glass window at the right rear portion of the car and carted the items such as one laptop ACER worth Ph 28,000.00; cellular phone Nokia 6100 color blue worth Php 5,000.00; bag with pants and t-shirts inside; charger of cellular phone and other important documents.

On the same date around 12:15 in the afternoon, Fr Ruby Tagaro, 45 years old, a resident of Bunawan, Agusan del Sur and an SVD Cultural Communities Ministry Coordinator reported to Butuan City Police Office (BCPO) that his driven Isuzu Fuego color white with plate number KCU-812 was being robbed by destroying the rear left window of the car.

Culprit then took the items such as one HP Laptop worth Php 70,000.00; Card Reader worth Php 200.00; bank book check (BPI) empty; Master Card (BPI and Patron); charger of cellular phone and other personal belongings.

Investigation disclosed that while the ISUZU Fuego was parked unattended at Butuan Express Hardware along JC Aquino Avenue, Butuan City, the robber/s got a chance and took the valuable things inside.

Personnel of BCPO are still conducting follow-up investigation to trace the identity of the suspects for possible recovery of the stolen items and to file cases against the culprits. (PNP-13/ PIA-Caraga)


Tank of motorcycle, recovered

On February 23, 2009 at 5:00 in the afternoon at Rosales Street, Butuan City, elements of TRU led by SPO4 Claros Jr recovered gasoline tank of Yamaha motorcycle STX 125 color red from the possession of a certain Gualberto Llagas, 52 years old, married, proprietor of MG Motor Parts and resident of Block-1, Lot-22 Emenville Subdivision, Barangay Ambago, Butuan City.

Said stolen item which was recovered at MG motor Parts along Rosales Street, Butuan City is owned by Mr Juanito Velarde, 67 years old, a resident of Lopez Jaena Extension, Butuan City and was sold to Mr Llagas in the amount of Php 1,500.00 by the suspect.

BCPO is preparing appropriate charges for filing in court. (PNP-13/ PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Monday, February 23, 2009

BCWD representative orator scores anew

Butuan City Water District (BCWD) representative orator scored anew when he was adjudged Third Place winner in the 14th PAWD National Oratorical Contest on February 11, 2009 in Cebu City.

Rafael Victor R. Villanueva, representing BCWD and the Northern Mindanao Natural Resources Management Council (NorMin-NRMC), competed with regional champion-orators who represented the different water districts and regional associations of water districts in the country.

Rafael Victor R. Villanueva (standing) in his paradoxical approach in interpreting the theme “Water and Sanitation for Life’s Preservation” and conversational method of delivery during the 14th PAWD National Oratorical Contest on February 11, 2009 at the Social Hall of Metro Cebu Water District in Cebu City on the occasion of the 30th PAWD National Convention. Seated at the back are Villanueva’s opponents who represent other water districts and regional associations of water districts. (Agelia J. Mora, BCWD/ PIA-Caraga)

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Villanueva, a 16-year old senior high school student of Angelicum Montessori School in Butuan City, is indeed BCWD’s pride for being its first sponsored contestant to that prestigious national contest who brought home a major prize.

Trained under the tutelage of Jane Racho-Ty, Villanueva employed paradoxical approach in his interpretation of the theme “Water and Sanitation for Life’s Preservation” and conversational method in his delivery, far from being conventional orator. That made him one of the distinct performers and landed him on the third spot of the competition.

Villanueva won in the 22nd Local Oratorical Contest in October last year, making him eligible to represent BCWD in the regional contest. Then, he was unanimously chosen as the best orator in the 22nd NorMin-NRMC Regional Oratorical Contest, his passport to the national contest.

The 14th PAWD National Oratorical Contest and the 14th PAWD National Poster Making Contest were among the highlights of the 30th PAWD National Convention, the 30th annual national gathering of member-water districts of the Philippine Association of Water Districts (PAWD), held on February 11-13, 2009 at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel.

The 14th PAWD National Oratorical and Poster Making Contests were supposed to be the last staging of the twin-contests. Last year, the PAWD leadership decided to end the holding of the two contests to give way to a new phase of environmental education for the youth being the future stewards of the environment, including water resources. However, with the overwhelming success of the 14th PAWD National Oratorical and Poster Making Contests and the public clamor for their retention, PAWD president Delfin C. Hilario proclaimed recently that the two PAWD national contests will continue to be among the major activities during PAWD national conventions.

With the decision of PAWD to continue the national contests for both oratorical and poster making, BCWD is encouraging high schools to train their brightest students and send the best to either of the two local contests – oratorical and on-the-spot poster making. (Agelia J. Mora, BCWD/ PIA-Caraga)

Breakwater bags 1st Prize in national publication award

Breakwater, the official publication of Butuan City Water District (BCWD), bagged 1st Prize in the 2008 PAWD Best Publication Award during the Awards Night of the 30th PAWD National Convention on February 13, 2009 at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel in Cebu City.

Butuan City Water District (BCWD) technical assistant and Breakwater editor-in-chief Agelia J. Mora (3rd from left) holds the 1st Prize trophy won by Breakwater in the 2008 PAWD Best Publication Award on February 13, 2009 at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel in Cebu City. Also in photo are BCWD senior public relations officer and Breakwater managing editor Ramil S. Barquin, PAWD publication committee chairman Arturo G. Villasan (2nd from left) and BCWD director Pacita T. Buñol (right). (Agelia J. Mora, BCWD/ PIA-Caraga)


Adjudged 2nd Best Magazine in the 2007 PAWD Best Publication Award, Breakwater bested other magazines of various water districts in the country, including the 2007 winner Crystal Flow of Davao City Water District and Flowell of Cagayan de Oro City Water District. Crystal Flow and Flowell placed third and second, respectively.

Breakwater has been in circulation for nine years now. It has been bringing to the BCWD’s various publics the latest developments in the water sector, updates in the water district operation, watershed and environmental concerns, and information related to water supply services.

Since its maiden issue, Breakwater has been adhering to the highest ethical and quality standards of print media production and focusing its editorial policy toward the attainment of BCWD’s goals and objectives. These made itself as an effective information and communication tool to massively promote the water district concept to various publics.

The PAWD Best Publication Award is an annual national search of the Philippine Association of Water Districts (PAWD) for the best water districts’ publications. This award encourages more water districts to produce their own publication and recognize the effort of those water districts that are already producing their publication. Moreover, this award aims to elevate the publications of the water districts to the highest quality and standard of print media production.

It has two categories – Magazine and Newsletter. Entries for both categories were judged according to relevance, content, style, form and originality.

Three credible personalities in mass communications, journalism and education evaluated the entries. They were Dr. Ronald M. Henson, who has written five books in various aspects of mass media communication and spent more than 25 years managing information; Dr. Robert F. Soriano, dean of the College of Communication – Polytechnic University of the Philippines, editor of CoC publications and writer of seven books in mass communication; and Mr. Ramon Tomeldan, managing editor of Manila Standard, who is also involved with publications of various private and public organizations, wrote news and features for Malaya, and covered science, education, and Malacañan beats. (Agelia J. Mora, BCWD/ PIA-Caraga)

58IB harassed by the NPA in Lianga SdS

Lianga, Surigao del Sur (Feb 19) – The local government of Lianga convened recently during the 1st Municipal Peace and Order Council (MPOC) meeting here after reorganizing thru EO 739.

Mayor Roy Higino Sarmen, MPOC Chairman was the presiding officer in the conference attended by Vice Mayor Robert Lala, MPOC Vice Chairman Col. Benjamin Pedralvez, Capt. Agapito Acebes of Philippine Army, PNP and other members of the MPOC.

During the meeting, Battalion Commander of 58IB Col. Benjamin S. Pedralvez reported that on February 1 at 11:45 am the checkpoint within the vicinity of Samilla Gym in Lianga was fired upon by the NPA. He said, “action taken on that matter is to conduct a pursuit operation, where again we have an encounter in Purok 5 of Brgy. San Isidro of this municipality last February 7.”

Col. Pedralvez said, “Insurgency is not only the AFPs concern, our concern is only the armed component, the NPA. The political, socio and economic factors is the LGUs concern”.

The recent skirmish between the the 58IB and the NPA resulted to the mass evacuation of the residents of the area to the Municipal Gym in Lianga.

The Municipal Social Welfare Development Office (MSWDO) reported that 110 families and 478 dependents evacuees have already received food assistance and health services.

Other assistance were also provided by the Provincial Social Welfare Development Office (PSWDO), PNRC-Surigao del Sur chapter and Vice Mayor Robert Lala who personally give food and cash assistance. (Nida Grace B. Tranquilan, PIA-Surigao del Sur)

POLICE REPORTS
By PO3 Philip Amer Posas Mazo
and PO3 Arturo Suganob Campania

Accomplishment on illegal logging

On February 19, 2009 at 11:30 in the morning at Paragua, Barangay San Antonio, Libjo Dinagat Islands, joint team from Libjo Municipal Police Station led by PO3 Walter Casino and Sangguniang Bayan members led by SB Rogelio Magpatoc and SB Francisco Areglo recovered an abandoned illegally cut sawn lumbers at the above-mentioned place with estimated volume of 639 board feet and estimated market value of Php 10,863.00.

Recovered lumber were brought to Libjo Municipal Police Station for recording/documentation and subsequently turned-over to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in the area for proper disposition.

Also, on February 22, 2009 at 2:45 in the morning at Purok-6, Barangay Bangonay, Jabonga, Agusan del Norte, PNP personnel of Jabonga Municipal Police Station led by PINSP Jonathan Satentes while conducting mobile patrol at said place, intercepted one unit ten wheeler truck, driven by a certain Johny Generisan, with plate number CTA 687, loaded with assorted sizes of lawaan lumbers with an estimated volume of 4,000 board feet.

Upon verification, no legal document was presented, prompting the PNP personnel to bring the cargo truck and driver to Jabonga Municipal Police Station. Coordination with DENR was conducted for proper disposition. (PNP-13/ PIA-13)


Report on robbery incident

On February 20, 2009 at 11:00 in the morning at Vasquez Street, Surigao City, Danara Travel and Tours located at the above place was robbed by three unidentified armed men carting cash money of Php 3,700.00 from the employees of Danara Travel and Tours and two units cellular phones (nokia 3310 and 6120).

Further, several items were also carted from another victim who was present at the time of the incident identified as Mae Arreza Pichay, 46 years old, single and a resident of 15 Alaska Street, Oro Vista Royal Subdivision, Antipolo City.

The carted items were cash money of Php 20,000.00; Gucci bag worth Php 40,000.00; Versace reading glass worth Php 15,000.00; Pearl earrings worth Php 25,000.00; RCBC ATM Card; Visa Credit Card; and other important documents.

Suspects immediately fled after the incident onboard a single motorcycle. Hot pursuit operation is still conducted by Surigao City Police Station for the possible arrest of the suspects. (PNP-13/ PIA-13)


Arrest of wanted person

On February 19, 2009 at 5:00 in the morning at Purok-1 Barangay Colorado, Jabonga, Agusan del Norte, a certain Danny Bermudez, 38 years old, single, farmer and resident of the above place was arrested by Jabonga Municipal Police Station personnel led by PI Jonathan Satentes by virtue of warrant of arrest (WOA) issued by Judge Orlando Doyon Presiding Judge of Regional Trial Court (RTC) branch 3410th Judicial Region, Cabadbaran City docketed under CC number 2002-110 or MURDER.

Suspect is now detained at Jabonga Municipal Police Station for proper disposition.

Also, on February 20, 2009 at 9:00 in the morning at Purok-1 Ampayon, Butuan City, PNP elements of Butuan City Police Office (BCPO) Station 4 and PO3 Jerry Concha of RIDM, PRO 13 arrested the suspect identified as Albert Plaza, 22 years old, single and a resident of Purok-8 Barangay Maygatasan, Bayugan City for the crime of Reckless Imprudence resulting to Serious Physical Injuries by virtue of WOA issued by Judge Eliseo Campos of MTCC branch 3, Bayugan City dated 26 August 2008 docketed under CC number 2863-08-4-40 with recommended bail bond of Php 10,000.00.

Suspect was turned-over to Bayugan City Police Station and received by SPO2 Bonifacio Lambos, Warrant Officer for proper disposition. (PNP-13/ PIA-13)


Accomplishment on illegal gambling

On February 19, 2009 at 9:00 in the evening at Kilometer 4 Barangay San Pedro, Lianga, Surigao del Sur, elements of Lianga Municipal Police Station led by PI Ronel Bernal Tesorero conducted operation against illegal logging which resulted to the confiscation of 3,000 board feet abandoned sawn Lauan lumbers with an estimated market value of Php 45,000.00.

Confiscated lumber was brought to Lianga Municipal Police Station for proper disposition.

Also, on February 22, 2009 at 10:00 in the morning at Poblacion Trento, Agusan del Sur, three teams from 1403rd PPMG led by SPO1 Benerando L Madelo conducted series of operation against illegal gambling which resulted to the confiscation of a total of three unit video karera machine at Purok-3, Purok-7 and Purok-8, all of Barangay Poblacion, Trento, Agusan del Sur.

Said machines were allegedly owned by a certain alias "Wawang". Said machines were brought to the Office of 1403rd PPMG for proper disposition.

Meanwhile, on the same date around 4:00 in the afternoon at Purok-5B, Barangay Baan Riverside, Butuan City PNP personnel of Vice Control Section led by PSINSP Ronaldo Plaza conducted operation against illegal gambling which resulted to the confiscation of one unit fruit game machine with undetermined peso coins inside from the possession of one Marites Plaza Penola (caretaker), 48 years old, married, and resident of said place.

Said machine was brought to the Office of the Vice Control Section of Vice Control Section of Butuan City Police Office (BCPO) for proper disposition. (PNP-13/ PIA-13)

PIA News Service - Friday, February 20, 2009

Feature: Matibay na buto, yaman mo!

Ang paghubog ng matibay na buto ng inyong mga anak ay tulad din ng paghubog ng kanilang edukasyon. Pinakamainam na panahon para sa pagbuo ng malusog at matibay ng buto ng inyong mga anak ay habang bata pa sila. Bakit? Sapagkat ito ang panahon kung saan ang buto ay nabubuo, o ang tinatawag na peak bone mass.

Maraming bagay ang nakakaimpluwensya ng peak bone mass, tulad ng kasarian o gender, hormones, kalagayang pangnutrisyon o nutritional status at pisikal na gawain o physical activities.

Ang kasarian o gender ay nakakaapekto ng bone mass. Ito ay karaniwang mas mataas sa mga lalaki kaysa sa babae. Bago dumating ang pagbibinata at pagdadalaga, (o puberty), ang batang lalaki at babae ay sabay na nadedevelop ang bone mass. Pagkalipas ng puberty, ang lalaki ay mas nakakamit ang sapat na bone mass kaysa sa babae.

Ang mga hormones tulad ng estrogen at testosterone ay mahalaga din para sa pagbuo ng bone mass. Ang babae na maagang nagkaregla ay mas maayos ang bone density kaysa sa babaeng bihirang reglahin.

Ang kalagayang pangnutrisyon ay isa ring factor na nakakaimpluwensya ng bone mass. Ang kalsyum sa ating katawan ay karaniwang matatagpuan sa skeleton at ngipin. Ang kalsyum ang nagpapatibay ng ating mga buto at ngipin. Ito ay tumutulong din sa normal na pagbubuo ng dugo (blood clotting) at regular na pagpintig ng puso.

Ang gatas at ang mga produkto nito ang pinakamahalagang pinanggagalingan ng kalsyum sa ating pagkain. Bukod dito, ang gatas ay nagtataglay din ng mataas na uri ng protina na mahalaga para sa maayos at mabilis na paglaki. Mayaman din ang gatas sa bitamina A para sa maayos na paningin, riboflavin na tumutulong sa maayos at normal na nervous system, vitamin B12 (o cobalamin) para maiwasan ang pagkakaroon ng anemia, at ang phosphorus para sa maayos na paglaki ng skeleton at ngipin sa panahon ng kamusmusan at kabataan.

Ang pag-inom ng isang basong gatas na binubuo ng apat na kutsarang pulbos na gatas na tinunaw sa isang basong tubig ay makakapagdulot ng 310 miligramo ng kalsyum na katumbas ng 44 porsiyento na nirerekomendang dami ng kalsyum para sa batang may edad na 7-9 taong gulang.

Bukod sa gatas at mga produkto nito, may iba pang uri ng pagkain na maaaring mapagkunan ng kalsyum, tulad ng maliliit na isda (gaya ng dilis), sardinas, tokwa, tofu, alamang, at mga madahong gulay tulad ng malunggay, saluyot, alugbati, at mustasa.

Ang batang may edad na 7-9 taon ay nangangailangan ng 700 miligramo ng kalsyum sa isang araw. Upang makamit ang nirerekomendang dami ng kalsyum sa loob ng isang araw, ugaliing isama ang gatas, mga produkto na natataglay nito at iba pang pagkaing mayaman sa kalsyum sa kanilang diet. Para sa mga taong hindi naman mahilig sa gatas, maaaring isama ang gatas sa cereals, fruit shakes, halo-halo, pudding at iba pa.

Ang pisikal na gawain ay importante din sa pagbuo ng matibay na buto. Ang buto at kalamnan o muscles ay mas tumitibay kapag ito ay nagagamit. Kung ang inyong anak ay mas maraming pisikal na gawain, ang kanilang buto o kalamnan ay mas lulusog at titibay. Hikayatin ang inyong anak sa mga pisikal na gawain tulad paglalakad, pagtakbo, pagsayaw, pagbasketball at iba pa. Ang mga gawaing ito ay maganda o mainam sa pagbuo ng malusog na buto.

Para sa karagdagang impormasyon tungkol sa kalsyum at nutrisyon, lumiham o tumawag sa Food and Nutrition Research Institute-DOST, Bicutan, Taguig, Metro Manila, Tel. No. 837-29-34 or 837-20-71 loc. 2287, FNRI-DOST website:http//www.fnri@dost.gov.ph.,email:mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph mar_v_c@yahoo.com. (Ma. Idelia G. Glorioso, FNRI-DOST S&T/ PIA-Caraga)



Feature: Malusog na pamumuhay para sa mahabang buhay

Narinig na ba ninyo ang patalastas sa telebisyon na “mahirap magkasakit”? Totoo naman ito, lalo na sa panahong ito na dumaranas ang ating bansa ng krisis. Mahirap magkasakit ngayon dahil kahit sa isang pang-gobyernong ospital ka maratay ay kailangan mo pa din gumastos sa gamot at laboratoryo.

Kaya ano ang maaari nating gawin para maiwasan ang pagkakasakit? Wastong pagkain, pag-ehersisyo nang palagian, di paninigarilyo at pag-iwas sa pag-inom ng alak ang pangunahing sangkap ng malusog na pamumuhay.

Sa pagbabago ng pamumuhay ng mga Filipino, mapapansin natin na ang mga chronic denegerative diseases tulad ng sakit sa puso, diabetes, kanser at iba pa ay nagiging public health problems ngayon.

Ayon sa pinakahuling 2003-2004 National Nutrition Health Survey (NNHeS) na isinagawa ng Food and Nutrition Research Institute-Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST), ang porsyento ng mga may diabetes sa mga adult na Filipino ay 3.4% samantalang ang hypertension o alta presyon ay 22.5%. Ibig sabihin nito ay 22 sa bawat 100 Filipino adults ay may alta presyon.

Ang paninigarilyo ay isa sa prevalent risk factors ng sakit sa puso na kasama ang stroke at atake sa puso. Ito ay dahilan ng halos 28,694 na namatay noong taong 2003, ayon kay Dr. Antonio L. Dans, Chairman ng NNHeS Technical Committee. Kahit may malawakang kampanya ng gobyerno laban sa paninigarilyo, lumalabas pa rin na mas maraming Filipino ang naninigarilyo (34.8%) kumpara sa mga Singaporeans (24.2%) at Amerikano (24.1%). Ang obesity o pagiging sobra sa timbang, isa pang risk-factor ng hypertension, ay mas laganap sa mga babae (18.3%) kaysa sa mga lalaki (3.1%).

Paano ninyo maisasagawa ang maayos na pamumuhay o ang tinatawag na healthy lifestyle? Narito ang ilang tips na maaaring gawin: Iwasan ang mga pagkaing mataas sa kaloriya, taba, sodium o asin.; Mag-ehersisyo nang palagain o madalas. Gawin ang pag-eehersisyo nang tatlo o apat na beses sa isang linggo nang 20 hanggang 30 minuto o lagpas pa. Ang ehersisyo ay mainam na pampababa ng timbang, pampaayos ng blood circulation, pampabuti ng muscle tone at efficiency ng puso at baga. Ang pag-eehersisyo ay nakatutulong din sa maayos na pagtulog at pang-alis ng stress.

Huwag din manigarilyo. Ang pinakamagandang panuntunan ay huwag magsimulang manigarilyo sapagkat kapag ito ay nakasanayan ang paninigarilyo ay mahirap nang itigil. Iwasan ang pag-inom ng maraming alak. Kung umiinom man, ito’y nasa katamtaman o moderate lamang na dami. Ang ibig sabihin ng moderate alcohol consumption ay isang bote sa isang araw para sa kababaihan at di lalagpas sa dalawang bote sa isang araw para sa kalalakihan. Ang isang bote ng alcoholic beverage ay katumbas ng isang bote ng beer (12 ounces) o kalahating baso ng alak o wine o isang jigger (1 ounce) ng whiskey o 1 ½ ounce ng gin.

Para sa karagdagang impormasyon tungkol sa pagkain at nutrisyon, lumiham o tumawag sa Food and Nutrition Research Institute-DOST, Bicutan, Taguig, Metro Manila, Tel. No. 837-29-34 or 837-20-71 loc. 2287, FNRI-DOST, email: mar_v_c@yahoo.com; website: http//www.fnri.dost.gov.ph. (Ma. Idelia G. Glorioso, FNRI-DOST S&T/ PIA-Caraga)


Feature: Kaalamang Pangtabako

Kung tayo’y nasanay sa pagbabasa ng mga impormasyong mapagkakakitaan o kaalamang panghanapbuhay at pangtrabaho, narito naman ang ilang impormasyong nauukol sa mga “kaalamang pangtabako.”

Ang tabako ay isang uri ng halamang pinakikinabangan sa kanyang dahon na ginagamit sa pagsisigarilyo (smoking), pagnguya (chewing), at pagsinghot (sniffing) dito. Sa paliwanag ng ika-sampung mensahe ng Nutritional Guidelines for Filipinos (NGF), 2000 (“Para sa malusog na pamumuhay at wastong nutrisyon, mag-ehersisyo nang palagian, huwag manigarilyo, at iwasan ang pag-inom ng alak”) na isinagawa ng inter-agency Technical Working Group na pinamunuan ng Food and Nutrition Research Institute ng Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST), may tatlong mapanganib na sangkap na makikita sa sigarilyo. Ito ay ang: (a) carbon monoxide o ang gas na pumipinsala sa kakayahan ng dugo upang tustusan ng sapat na oxygen ang mga mahahalagang bahagi ng katawan. Ito ang dahilan kung kaya’t nagkakaroon ng kakulangan sa hangin para sa paghinga (shortness of breath) sa mga naninigarilyo; (b) nicotine ang sangkap na nakapagpapa-addict sa tabako. Nagbibigay panganib ito sa puso sa pamamagitan ng pagtaas ng blood pressure at heart rate; at (k) tar ang malagkit na kayumangging sangkap na makikita sa usok at nabubuo sa baga kapag ito’y ating nalanghap. Ito ay kilala bilang matapang na carcinogen o nakapagdudulot ng kanser. Kasama ng iba pang nakalalasong mga sangkap sa sigarilyo, ito ay maaaring maging sanhi ng lung cancer, emphysema, chronic bronchitis, ischemic heart disease, at hypertension. Ayon sa World Health Organization (WHO) at Department of Health (DOH), ang paggamit ng tabako ay nakadaragdag ng panganib sa pagkakaroon ng atake sa puso at mga iba pang mga sakit.

Ayon sa Philippine Cancer Society (halaw sa Inquirer News Service, Hunyo 2003), ang kanser sa baga ay nangungunang killer disease sa Pilipinas, na mayroong 11,000 kasong naitatala sa bawat taon. Tunay ngang nakababahala ito. Karagdagan dito, sa isinagawang Philippine Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS) sa 11,630 na mga estudyante, sinasabing may 27 porsiyento sa mga ito ang kasalukuyang naninigarilyo. Nakagugulat ding impormasyon na napakataas ng Environmental Tobacco Smoke Exposure (ETS). Mula sa mga estudyanteng nakasama sa surbey, anim (6) sa 10 ang nakatira sa mga tahanang may naninigarilyo, mahigit pito (7) sa 10 ang nakahantad o exposed sa usok sa mga pampublikong lugar, at halos anim (6) sa 10 ay may mga magulang na naninigarilyo.

Sa kabilang banda ay makikita ring may pag-asa mula sa surbey na isinagawa sapagkat mahigit walo (8) sa 10 sa mga naninigarilyong mga estudyante ay nagnanais ding maihinto ang paninigarilyo. Isa itong napakagandang balita at kung gayon, tunay ngang may pag-asa pa.

Bilang pagbabahagi, ako ma’y nakaranas manigarilyo. Labis akong nagpapasalamat hindi dahil sa karanasang ito, kung hindi dahil natutunan ko ring ihinto ito. Isa itong tamang desisyon. Mula dito ay napatunayan kong wala ngang kabutihang maidudulot ang paninigarilyo sa aking katawan, sa ibang mga taong nakapaligid sa akin at nakalalanghap ng usok, at sa ating kapaligiran. Sa ngayon ay patuloy pa rin ako sa pagsuportang itaguyod ang No Smoking sa pamamagitan ng paghimok sa iba, kabilang na ang aking kabiyak na maihinto na rin ang paninigarilyo. Nananatili akong may pag-asa sa pagdating ng araw kung saan wala ng “LAST” (lighter, ashtray, at stick ng tabako) sa kanilang buhay. Umaasa akong sana’y malapit na ito…

Para sa iba pang impormasyon tungkol sa pagkain, kalusugan at nutrisyon, maaaring sumulat, tumawag o magsadya kay: Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, FNRI Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department of Science and Technology, General Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City; Telepono/Fax Bilang: 8372934, 8373164; Direct Line: 8391839; DOST Trunk Line: 8372071-82 local 2296 o 2284; e-mail: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph o mar_v_c@yahoo.com; FNRI-DOST website: http://www.fnri.dost.gov.ph. (Marie T. Bugas, FNRI-DOST S&T/ PIA-Caraga)


Feature: ANO BA ANG SYNDROME X
(Dietary approach to prevent syndrome X)

Ikaw ba ay overweight, malaki ang tiyan, may hypertension, mataas ang cholesterol level at may diabetes? Kung meron ka ng mga ito, ikaw ay may Syndrome X.

Karamihan sa ating mga Filipino ay maganang kumain. Di natin maiwasan ang mga nakatutuksong pagkain na nabibili sa mga fast food chains at restaurants. Ngunit may ikabubuti ba ito sa ating kalusugan? Marami rin sa ating mga Pinoy ay overweight na. Kapag ang iyong Body Mass Index (BMI) ay 25-30, ikaw ay overweight:, kapag mahigit sa 30 ikaw ay obese na. Ang BMI ay nagsisilbing batayan upang malaman natin kung tama ang ating bigat ayon sa ating taas. Ang BMI ay malalaman sa pamamagitan ng pagkuha ng iyong timbang (sa kilo) at taas (sa metro). Ang formula para rito ay: BMI= timbang (kilo)/taas (metro2).

Ang Syndrome X na kadalasang tinatawag na metabolic syndrome ay resulta ng maling kaugalian sa pagkain. Ayon sa mga nutrition experts, kung ikaw ay maganang kumain at di gaanong gumagalaw o may sedentary lifestyle, magugulat ka na lang kung ikaw ay may syndrome X na pala.

Ang maling pagpili ng pagkain at kakulangan sa regular na ehersisyo ay isa sa mga pangunahing sanhi ng ganitong uri ng sakit. Ang healthy food diet ay makatutulong upang maiwasan natin ito.

Upang matulungan ang mga Filipino na maunawaan kung ano ang healthy food diet, si Gng. Sanirose Orbeta, Vice President ng Philippine Association for the Study of Overweight and Obesity (PASOO) at si Dr. Rodolfo F. Florentino dating FNRI, DOST Director at sa tulong ng mga researchers ng Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department of Science and Technology ay gumawa ng Food Guide.

Ang Filipino Food Guide Pyramid ay merong limang stages. Ang unang stage o pinakabase ng pyramid ay nagsasabi na kinakailangan nating uminom ng maraming fluids tulad ng tubig at fruit juices. Ang pangalawang stage naman ay nagsasabing kailangang madalas kumain ng kanin, cereals, lamang ugat o rootcrops, pasta at tinapay. Ang pangatlong stage ay nagmumungkahi na kumain tayo ng tatlong dulot ng gulay at dalawa o tatlong dulot naman ng prutas sa isang araw. Sa pang-apat na stage naman, sinasabi na kailangang kumain ng katamtamang dami ng manok, isda, itlog, baka, baboy, mga tuyong gulay at non-fat dairy products tulad ng gatas. Ang pinakataas o pinakatuktuk ng pyramid ay nagsasabi na dapat kaunti lamang ang kainin nating butter, matatamis na desserts at maaalat na pagkain.

Ayon kay Gng. Orbeta, di man natin lubusang masunod ang nilalaman ng Food Guide Pyramid sa lahat ng oras, ay kailangan pa rin nating siguraduhing araw-araw tayong kumakain ng maraming gulay at prutas, madalas kumain ng kanin, cereals, lamang ugat at umiinom ng mahigit walong basong tubig upang tayo’y maging malusog at balanse ang food choices.

Para sa karagdagang kaalaman, maaari kayong sumulat o tumawag sa Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST), General Santos Ave. Bicutan, Taguig City, Metro Manila; Telephone/Fax no. 837-2934, 837-3164, e-mail: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph FNRI-DOST website: http//www.fnri.dost.gov.ph. (Josefina T. Gonzales, FNRI-DOST S&T/ PIA-Caraga)


AMAD conducts Agribusiness Coordinators Meeting

Butuan City - To spur the economic growth in Caraga Region through agribusiness, the Agribusiness Marketing and Assistance Division (AMAD) of the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Unit 13 (DA-RFU 13) conducted recently an agribusiness coordinators meeting.

The meeting took place at 3rd floor DA Conference Hall, Capitol Site, this city and presided by Servilla Balaan, AMAD officer in charge.

Participants of the meeting were the agribusiness coordinators in provincial and city level within Caraga Region.

In order for the participants to fully appreciate the purpose of the meeting, Malu Gruyal, an AMAD staff gives the overview of the meeting since this was the first meeting for the year 2009.

OIC Balaan presented the work plan of AMAD for the calendar year 2009 to serve as guide for agribusiness coordinators to integrate their respective plan on their locality for the whole year.

Highlight of the meeting was the commitment of each participant to fully support and work closely with the operators of the Barangay Bagsakan and Bagsakan Centers (BB/BC) established in the region.

Balaan revealed that in general, operation of BB/BC in Caraga Region is working well but some showed decline on sales due to limited supply of products to be sold especially on meat products.

Agribusiness coordinators pledged to look into the matter and work with the respective operators to help find the solutions on every obstacle encountered during the operation.

Before the meeting adjourned, the group decided to conduct their meeting on a quarterly basis for a better monitoring and stronger working relationship with each other. (Aurell P. Arais, RAFID-DA-13/ PIA-Caraga)


DA-RFU 13 supports PNRC Blood Donation Drive

Butuan City – Department of Agriculture Regional Field Unit 13 (DA-RFU 13) strongly supports the drive of the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC) for blood donation campaign.

The support was manifested by allowing personnel from PNRC Butuan City/Agusan del Norte Chapter to utilize the DA lobby as venue for the recently held blood donation drive.

A dozen of DA personnel responded on the campaign by donating their blood for about 450 cc each.

Other personnel also availed the services of PNRC such as free taking of blood pressure (BP) and blood type.

Seven staff from PNRC Butuan City/Agusan del Norte Chapter composed the team headed by Soljin M. Robles, Registered Medical Technologist (RMT).

In an interview, Robles explained that a person who donates blood will received a card and may use it anytime to avail free blood from their office on an emergency situation.

Donating blood is a healthy practice to keep healthy blood cells in the body produced by bone marrow. (Aurell P. Arais, RAFID-DA-13/ PIA-Caraga)



POLICE REPORTS
By PO3 Arturo Suganob Campania


PNP arrests wanted persons

On February 18, 2009 at 10:55 in the morning at Barangay Rizal, Barobo, Surigao del Sur, PNP personnel of Barobo Municipal Police Station led by SPO2 Joseph Pomera, arrested the suspect identified as Marcelo Diaz, 42 years old, married and resident of said place by virtue of warrant of arrest (WOA) issued by Hon Judge Alfredo P Jalad of Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 28, Lianga, Surigao del Sur docketed under CC number L-1799 for illegal fishing.

Arrested person is now detained at Barobo Municipal Police Station for proper disposition.

On the same date around 11:50 in the morning at the Mangagoy Public Terminal, Mangagoy, Bislig City, PNP elements of Bislig City Police Station, arrested the suspect identified as Helmar Rodilla, 20 years old, single, jobless and resident of Barangay Sibaroy, Bislig City.

Suspect was arrested by virtue of WOA issued by Hon Judge Merlyn Pacarro Canedo of RTC Branch 29, Bislig City, docketed under CC number 2007-04-3138 for qualified theft with recommended bailbond amounting to Php 30,000.00.

Arrested person is now detained at Bislig City Police Station for proper disposition.

Also, around 5:00 in the afternoon at Sitio Hanluton, Barangay Tigao, Cortes, Surigao del Sur, PNP personnel of Cortes Municipal Police Station led by PSINSP Noel B Naranjo arrested the suspect identified as Apolinario Duero, 46 years old, single, farmer and resident of Puyog, Calagdaan, Cantilan, Surigao del Sur.

Suspect was arrested by virtue of WOA issued by Hon Judge Alfredo B Jalad of RTC Branch 41, Cantilan, Surigao del Sur, docketed under CC number C-636 for murder with no bailbond recommended.

Arrested person was brought to Cortes Municipal Police Station for proper disposition. (PNP-13/ PIA-Caraga)


5,607 pass career service exams

A total of 5,607 examinees passed the career service examinations conducted nationwide last November 16, the Civil Service Commission (CSC) reported.

Said number comprises 9.99% of the 56,141 hopefuls who took the exam. Of the said figure, 4,012 passed the Professional test while 1,595 passed the Sub-Professional test.

Passers of the Professional exam shall be conferred Career Service Professional Eligibility needed for appointment to professional, technical and scientific positions in government. On the other hand, those who hurdled the Sub-professional test shall be conferred the corresponding eligibility for clerical, trades, crafts and custodial service positions in government.

The CSC said that eligibility is one of the four qualification standards (QS) for permanent appointment to a career service position in government. The three others are education, experience, and training.

Cream of the crop

The top 10 passers of the Professional exam are: Ena Angelica C. Luga (CAR), 84.00; Elizabeth Joy M. Sadiarin (NCR), 83.83; Christian P. Umali (S. Tagalog), 83.76; Vijay D. Lalangan (Ilocos), 83.66; Rose Ann B. Ronato (E. Visayas), 83.63; Alvin I.S. Juan (C. Luzon), 83.59; Gabriel Enrique H. Limson (NCR), 83.56; Arlene C. Basinang (SOCCSKSARGEN), 83.50; Patrick Brian L. Tan (NCR), 83.49; and Victoria Raye P. Alberto (NCR), 83.48.

In terms of regional performance, the National Capital Region got the highest passing rate at 13.84% or 1,034 passers out of 7,473 examinees. The Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) followed closely with 13.53% passing rate. Placing third is Davao Region with a passing rate of 9.9%.

Meanwhile, Edgar Manuel A. Aureus from the Bicol Region topped the Sub-Professional level with a rating of 93.46. Others who made it to the top 10 are: Glenn C. Hufancia (Ilocos), 93.19; Jefferson J. Vinoya (Cagayan Valley), 92.35; Argie G. Suboc (W. Visayas), 92.07; Sherwin M. Orbon (Bicol), 91.58; Anna Katrina A. Ty (Bicol), 91.55; Ritta Dianne G. Ramos (C. Luzon), 91.31; Alaine G. Revote (NCR), 90.98; Marielle B. Lunas (Bicol), 90.88; and Jeross R. Aguilar (Bicol), 90.76.

Beating other regions in overall performance in the Sub-Professional level was CAR with a passing rate of 17.1% or 73 passers out of 427 examinees. The Bicol Region landed second with a 17.08% passing rate or 117 passers out of 685 examinees. Ilocos Region, NCR and Davao Region likewise fared well with passing rates of 15.79%, 15.7%, and 15.1%, respectively.


Profile of new eligibles

Majority of passers for both examination levels (3,095) were unemployed. A total of 1,267 passers came from the private sector and 969 from the government. Some 165 were self-employed.

The new Professional eligibles prefer work in the areas of research/report writing, management and audit analysis, accounting, human resource development, and project planning/management. On the other hand, the Sub-professional eligibles prefer typing, data/document control, encoding, computer operation, general clerical, printing, and property custodial.

In terms of gender, 63% or 3,534 passers were female, 2,070 were male, and 23 provided invalid data. The passers were relatively young, with 68% or 3,810 falling under the 18-24 age bracket and 1,312 under the 25-31 age bracket.

The complete list of successful examinees of the November 16, 2008 career service Professional and Sub-Professional examinations may be accessed at the CSC website at www.csc.gov.ph.
Passers are advised to coordinate with the CSC Regional Office concerned on the requirements and procedure in claiming their Certificates of Eligibility (COE). Meanwhile, those who failed may secure a copy of their Reports of Rating also through the CSC website. (CSC-13/ PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Thursday, February 19, 2009

Global Financial Crisis Resiliency Planning Workshop conducted

About 125 representatives of the academe, private sector, line agencies, local government units and non-government units actively participated in the Global Financial Crisis Resiliency Planning Workshop held in one of the convention centers here in Butuan, recently. The workshop was aimed at formulating the Global Financial Crisis (GFC) Resiliency Agenda of Caraga Region.

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Participants and facilitators of NEDA 13 are shown here identifying the sectoral issues during the recently held workshop. (Melanie A. Maur/Ian G. Miculob, NRO XIII/ PIA-Caraga)

During the workshop, various sectoral and sub-sectoral inputs were synthesized and presented. The most urgent concern addressed was the protection of the vulnerable sectors, which include the households under poverty line, workers in the export sector, returning overseas Filipino workers and their families, and the children and youth.

The participants also discussed issues such as the absence of sustainable source of income, low prices of agricultural and forestry products, untimely implementation of the new real tax rate, displacement and retrenchment of workers due to slow down of mining activities, unemployment and tenurial issues.

Areas for collaboration among agencies were identified to synchronize programs, projects and activities in stimulating the region’s economy to soften the impact of the financial crisis.

The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) – Caraga Region hosted the said workshop to provide a venue for a multi-stakeholder consultation in drawing up concrete action plans to weather the economic crisis and prepare for the turnaround beyond 2010. (Melanie A. Maur/Ian G. Miculob, NRO XIII/ PIA-Caraga)


Cebuano News: Mga ka munisipyohan nagpakadawat sa mga medical services ubos sa programa sa maayong panglawas ni Gob. Ace Barbers

Surigao del Norte (19 February) - Sa dakong tinguha ni Gob. Ace Barbers nga mahatagan og de kalidad nga panirbisyo ang tibuok katawhan sa natad sa pagpalambo ug pagmintiner sa saktong nutrisyon ug maayong panglawas sa probinsya, ubay-ubay nga mga medical services ang gipahigayon sa Provincial Health Office pinaagi na kang Dr. Audie Relliquette dili lamang ilawom sa ilang buhatan diha sa Kapitolyo kon dili pati na usab sa mga hilit nga barangay sa Surigao del Norte.

Sa kasamtangan, nagpadayon ang ilang Medical Consultation, Dental Services, Laboratory Examination u gang pang apud-apud ug mga libreng tambal sa pipila ka mga pasyente nga wala magdumili nga mag pa examine ka nila tungod sa hilabihang kalisud sa panahon.

Sa laing bahin, nagpadayon usab ang ilang Mass Urine Screening and Fasting/Random Blood Sugar Determination sa mga munisipyo dinhi sa probinsya diin daghan sa atong mga kaigsuonang Surigaonon ang nakapahimulos niini sama na sa pipila ka mga empleyado, mga estudyante ug mga magtutudlo nga kung atong madumduman, gisugdan na kini ngadto sa lungsod sa Mainit ug usab tulo ka mga tulungha-an sa Tubod ug ngani kini miabot na usab sa Lungsod sa San Francisco.

Sa ilang gipahigayon nga Blood Donation Activity sa Lungsod sa Mainit nga nahitabo dili pa lamang dugay, adunay ilang nakaplagan nga 29 ka mga donors nga boluntaryong mi donate sa ilang mga dugo. Ug sa sumunod nga adlaw, sila mipahigayon na usab sa ilang Medical/Dental ug Tuli Outreach Program ngadto sa Brgy. Poblacion, Alegria, Surigao del Norte.

Daghan ang nalipay ug nakadayeg sa maong mga kalihukan hilabi na kadtong nahatagan ug nadapatan sa maong mga serbisyo tungod ilang nakita ug nasinati nga bisag sila adto sa halaayong dapit ning atong probinsya, sa gihapon sila gihuna huna sa atong maalagarong gobernador, Robert Ace Barbers ug sila gituyo ug bisita sa atong mga medical practitioners diha sa buhatan sa Provincial Health Office aron sa paghatag importansya kanila ug sa ilang mga panginahanglanon. (SdN PGO-Media Bureau/ PIA-Surigao City)


Illegal operators slip off dragnet as DENR operatives seize 151 pieces of illegal lumber

BUNAWAN, AGUSAN DEL SUR -- Illegal operators have evaded a dragnet as the DENR operatives swooped down on a lair of illegal sawmills at a remote village in Bunawan, Agusan del Sur recently and confiscated about 151 pieces of lauan lumber with a total volume of 1,081 board feet.

Bunawan CENR Officer Ulpiano D.Dasilao said the operators of illegal small sawmills have scampered away to different directions after sensing the coming of the DENR operatives in Barangay Libertad in this town.

Reports said the operators have also brought with them the parts and portable apparatus that they have used in milling the logs.

It was the first major accomplishment of CENRO Dasilao over the past three weeks of anti-illegal logging and mining operation since he assumed his new assignment in that area.

Dasilao said that rounding up the illegal saw mill operators in his area may be a big challenge to consider but nevertheless, he is determined to take the risk of protecting and preserving the natural resources and the environment.

The DENR have so far dismantled at least 39 illegal operation of portable sawmills which were clandestinely operating in that town. These illegal operators usually serve as destination points of few pieces of logs being brought to them by poachers through the river.

Dasilao said the latest confiscation followed weeks of surveillance in the area by the military-supported DENR operatives in cooperation with the local government officials.

Using portable band-sawmill apparatus, these illegally-cut logs are sawn into lumber, squeezed into closed-vans and transported to the different major destination points which includes the cities of Davao, Butuan and Cagayan de Oro.

Reports from undisclosed sources also revealed that these group of operators are well-organized that they can easily detect DENR surveillance operation. These operators, the report said, could easily dismantle their portable apparatus and hide them from the authorities or go to other locations to set up another secret operation there.

Dasilao said the DENR operatives are finding it difficult to locate these group of illegal operators. Nevertheless, he said they “will continue their hot pursuit operation against them until these bunch of “criminals of our natural resources” are brought before the bars of justice.”

He said that the illegal operators are beginning to feel the pressure considering the “death notes” and warning that they are sending upon the DENR officials to “slow down on the campaign.”

Dasilao said the top management of the DENR is expecting results from the on-going operation in his area of responsibility.

DENR Regional Executive Director Edilberto S. Buiser has reshuffled some of his key officers at the front lines particularly in Agusan del Sur and Agusan del Norte early this month in his attempt to further boost the campaign on illegal logging , timber poaching and illegal small-scale mining . (Eric Herson F. Gallego, DENR-13/ PIA-Caraga)


58IB harassed by the NPA in Lianga SdS

Lianga, Surigao del Sur (Feb 19) – The local government of Lianga convened recently the 1st Municipal Peace and Order Council (MPOC) meeting here after reorganizing thru EO 739.

Mayor Roy Higino Sarmen, MPOC Chairman was the presiding officer in the conference attended by Vice Mayor Robert Lala, MPOC Vice Chairman Col. Benjamin Pedralvez, Capt. Agapito Acebes of Philippine Army, PNP and other members of the MPOC.

During the meeting, Battalion Commander of 58IB Col. Benjamin S. Pedralvez reported that on February 1 at 11:45 am the checkpoint within the vicinity of Samilla Gym in Lianga was fired upon by the NPA. He said, “action taken on that matter is to conduct a pursuit operation, where again we have an encounter in Purok 5 of Brgy. San Isidro of this municipality last February 7.”

Col. Pedralvez said, “Insurgency is not only the AFPs concern, our concern is only the armed component, the NPA. The political, socio and economic factors is the LGUs concern”.

The recent skirmish between the 58IB and the NPA resulted to the mass evacuation of the residents of the area to the Municipal Gym in Lianga.

The Municipal Social Welfare Development Office (MSWDO) reported that 110 families and 478 dependents evacuees have already received food assistance and health services.

Other assistance were also provided by the Provincial Social Welfare Development Office (PSWDO), PNRC-Surigao del Sur chapter and Vice Mayor Robert Lala who personally give food and cash assistance. (Nida Grace B. Tranquilan, PIA-Surigao del Sur)


DPWH 13 to hold jobs fair on Monday

Butuan City – Following pronouncements of the forging of a memorandum of agreement between the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), National Constructors Association of the Philippines (NACAP) and the Philippine Construction Association (PCA), the Caraga Regional Office of DPWH through the efforts of Director Evelyn Barroso is set to hold a one-day jobs fair on Monday ( February 23) 8:00 am at the DPWH Regional Office 13.

The jobs fair is part of President Arroyo’s job generation program. This is a nationwide simultaneous activity of DPWH timed with the signing of the MOA that is expected to provide 500,000 jobs, the agency’s biggest job generation undertaking so far.

In 2007, some 300,00 were hired, while in 2008, less than 500,000 people were employed by the agency.

“The jobs fair aims to provide gainful employment to workers displaced or affected by the current global recession. The jobs fair is also expected to provide fiscal stimulus to spur economic growth in the locality as employment increases spending power and probable opportunity to save,” Director Barroso explains.

The department will be hiring civil engineers, foremen, laboratory technicians, steelmen, heavy equipment operator, masons, tinsmiths, laborers and other positions. Applicants must be 18 to 50 years old, physically and mentally fit.
According to Barroso, this is so far the agency’s biggest job generation undertaking. “In 2007, some 300,00 were hired, while in 2008, less than 500,000 people were employed by the agency,” said Director Barroso. (PIA-13)