PIA News Service - Friday, March 6, 2009

MRDP’s M&E conducts CBMEG orientation-training in Agusan del Sur

ESPERANZA, Agusan del Sur – To ensure sustainability of the projects being implemented through Mindanao Rural Development Program (MRDP), the Regional Program Coordinating Office (RPCO) and Provincial Program Management and Implementing Unit (PPMIU) conducted two day orientation training on newly organized Community Based Monitoring Group (CBMEG) in Esperanza, Agusan del Sur.

Members of Community Based Monitoring Group (CBMEG) during the on site visit on FMR to familiarize field works. (Photo courtesy of DA-RAFID-13)

The orientation training that was attended by members of the CBMEG in five barangays in Esperanza was conducted at Municipal Agricultural Training Center last March 4 to 5, 2009.

Ely Jesus Teritet, MPMIU Head warmly welcomes the participants as well as the invited guests from DA RFU 13 and PPMIU.

The occasion was graced by the chief executive of the said municipality Honorable Leonida P. Manpatilan.

During her speech, Manpatilan extoled all the participants who showed keen interest in helping the government in monitoring and evaluating the projects.

On the first day of the training, Edna Tongson, M&E Unit Head PPMIU discussed the rationale of the CBMEG Training and the Monitoring and Evaluation System while RPCO M&E Unit Head Rebecca Atega talked about the MRDP Overview.

In order for the participants to fully appreciate their role as CBMEG member, Ellen Tubia, PPMIU M&E Staff discussed about groups’ task and Engr. Joselito Guzman talked on the importance of monitoring and evaluation on MRDP projects while Provincial IGR Coordinator Alice Millana tackled about the Barangay Development Plan (BDP) and its sub-projects.

Also tackled was the CBMEG Procedures in Rural Infrastructure (RI) and CFAD Sub-Projects through RI Coordinator Engr. Ritchie Ramirez and CFAD Coordinator Ismael Saguran while MPMIU M&E Unit Head Glenn Ryan Rubillos impart about the input/output monitoring forms to be used by the CMBEG in recording their respective reports.

On the following day, the group conducted an on site visitation on an on-going farm to market road (FMR) in Barangay Cubo to familiarize field works.

The municipality of Esperanza is a recipient of MRDP projects such as farm to market road and livelihood to be implemented in five identified barangays.

The said orientation training served as the first outcome after the CBMEG Trainors Training conducted last April 25 to 26, 2009 at Provincial Training Center, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur.

Similar orientation training will be conducted soon in other municipalities in Caraga Region. (Aurell P. Arais/Rafid DA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Gokongwei wants more than 30 young professionals for RP, China training

Taipan John L. Gokongwei, Jr. is looking for the second batch of Gokongwei Brothers Foundation (GBF) China Scholars -- more than 30 young and bright Filipinos who will be trained here and in China to be among the country’s future leaders.

Last year, Gokongwei and the GBF China scholarship committee chose the first batch, comprised of 34 young men and women. Disciplines of Chinese language, culture and business were steeped in them at the Gokongwei Brothers Foundation Learning and Development Center in Pasig and later in China where they studied at the Beijing Language and Culture University for 10 months.

GBF will shoulder tuition fee expenses and provide monthly stipend and medical insurance to the scholars.

The scholars are under no obligation to work with JG Summit. All Gokongwei asks is that the scholars return to the Philippines, “I want them to learn what makes China tick and then be able to apply those learning here.”

Gokongwei, who built the JG Summit conglomerate from scratch, has been pushing Chinese studies, saying a person who knows both East and West is more well-rounded and could potentially be a better leader.

Gokongwei is also a firm believer in honing the youth for the country’s future. “Each young person can change the world. My goal is to equip young Filipinos with experience and understanding of a better way to do things from other countries. Then they can come up with their own conclusions as to how they can make an impact here.”

Gokongwei is proud of what the China Scholarship has accomplished and is looking forward to sending the next batch of young, passionate Pinoys.

“We need hardworking, young people with leadership qualities if we want to change things for the better. It is my fervent hope that by coming back to the Philippines and leading their generation with positive change, the Philippines can truly be able to uplift its place in the world,” Gokongwei said.

Applications for the second batch should be submitted to the Gokongwei Brothers Foundation (GBF) from February 23 to March 23, 2009. Applicants must be college graduates with at least one year work experience, and from 21 to 30 years old.

The scholars will undergo a ten-month development program, which will include learning Chinese language and culture, and selected elective studies in economics, management, and other development-related fields.

They will spend the first five months of the program in a partner school in the Philippines and the remaining five months in a partner academic institution in China.

Application forms are available at the GBF Committee Office located at 41/F Corporate Human Resources Office, Robinsons Equitable Tower, ADB cor. Poveda Avenues, Ortigas, Pasig City, or from selected participating partner schools. Forms can also be downloaded from the JG Summit Holdings Inc. website www.jgsummit.com.ph.

Interested parties may also contact the GBF China Scholarship Program office at tel. nos. 633-7631 local 246 & 283. (Michelle Eve De Guzman, Cebu Pacific/ PIA-Caraga)


PBSP, Spanish govt to improve health care for women

Thirty-four thousand women in Agusan del Norte will benefit from improved access to maternal and child health care, safe motherhood and reproductive health services.

The Agusan del Norte Provincial Health Office reported that in 2007, only 18% of pregnant women complied with the recommended number of at least three prenatal visits to primary health care facilities. Only 16% of pregnant women received the complete tetanus toxoid shot which prevents neonatal tetanus, a fatal condition for newborn babies. With poor access to services and limited resources, the number of maternal deaths from deliveries remained high.

The Agusan del Norte Provincial Health Office and local governments will work in partnership with the Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP), a corporate-led social development foundation, in implementing a program to improve the quality of health and basic services for women.

“To improve access to services, we will establish maternity and lying-in clinics. This will be done alongside training and mobilizing community health workers, and upgrading of rural health unit facilities to improve the quality of services,” explains Dr. Marylin Muncada, PBSP Mindanao Regional Operations Manager. “The partners will also assist women-victims of gender violence through improvement of mechanisms for detection and referral of gender violence cases, development and training of volunteer social workers and establishment of women crisis centers,” Muncada adds.

This is a three-year program made possible by the Spanish government through the Agencia Espanola de Cooperacion Internacional para el Desarrollo (AECID) and the Fundacion Humanismo y Democracia. The program is also supported by the Local Government Units of Cabadbaran, Carmen, Nasipit, Buenavista, Remedios T. Romualdez, Tubay, and Magallanes in Agusan del Norte Province. (Danny Escabarte, PBSP-Davao/ PIA-Caraga)


POLICE REPORTS
By PO3 Rene Boy Ocares Bernaldez

Report on illegal gambling

On March 4, 2009 at 7:30 in the evening, PNP personnel of Butuan City Police Station 1 led by PSUPT Joseph Baladad Boquiren, Station Commander and Vice Control Section Chief PSI Ronaldo Villamor Plaza, conducted operations against illegal gambling at Quick Chow Fast Food, R. Calo Street, Butuan City which resulted to the apprehension of a certain Joe Vallente Estrada, alleged coordinator, 53 years old, single and a resident of Lopez Jaena Street, Barangay Tandang Sora, Butuan City.

Confiscated from the suspect’s possession and control were one filled-up swertres tally sheets; 22 pieces filled-up swertres ticket stubs; one pad blank stub; one piece calculator; one piece ballpen; and P670 bet money in different denominations.

At about 8:30 in the evening of same date, same team conducted operation at the sidewalk of Barangay Obrero, Butuan City, which resulted to the apprehension of the following suspect identified as Jessie Tambing Saputalo (runner/collector) 31 years old, single and a resident of Purok-7, Barangay Obrero, Butuan City.

Confiscated from Saputalo’s possession and control were two pieces filled-up swertres tally sheets; one unit blue Honda wave with Plate number IU 3290 and P100.00 in different denominations.

The other suspect identified as Warren Sanoc Garcia (runner/collector) 21 years old, single and a resident of Purok-8, Slaugther, Barangay Obrero, Butuan City was also arrested.

Confiscated from Garcia’s possession were three pieces filled-up swertres tally sheets, one motorcycle Red Yamaha STX with Plate number KT 4199 and P612.00 bet money in different denominations.

Also, a suspect identified as Cherylyn Balinga Porras (usher) 36 years old, single and a resident of Purok-10, Obrero, Butuan City; and Mercideta Aguirre Palermo (usher) 48 years old, married and a resident of Purok-7, Barangay Obrero, Butuan City were arrested.

Confiscated from Porra’s possession were 30 pieces swertres tips; 68 pieces filled-up swertres ticket stubs; one unit calculator; one piece filled-up swertres tally sheet; two pieces ballpens; one unit 3310 Nokia cellphone; and P189.50 bet money in different denomination.

Confiscated from Palermo’s possession were seven pieces filled-up swertres tally sheets; two pieces swertres tips; and P72.25 bet money in different denominations

Meanwhile, at about 8:35 in the evening of same date at Barangay Obrero, Butuan City, same team confiscated one unit Fruit Game Machine with undetermined peso coins inside. The caretaker of said machine evaded arrest.

Arrested suspects, gambling paraphernalia and fruit game machine were brought to the Office of the Vice Control Section, Butuan City Police Station 1, Butuan City Police Office for proper disposition. (PNP-13/ PIA-Caraga)


PNP probes shooting incident

On March 4, 2009 at 2:00 in the morning at Barangay Nato, Esperanza, Agusan del Sur, a certain Emoray Gomez Contadan, 17 years old, single, laborer and a resident of said place was shot by unidentified suspect believed to be Communist Terrorists (CTs) with the used of caliber .45 pistol.

Victim sustained lone gunshot wound at the back portion of his body and was immediately rushed to Esperanza Medical Hospital for medical treatment but succumbed to death while still on the way.

Suspect/s fled towards the rubber plantation of said place. PNP elements of Esperanza Municipal Police Station responded to the area and conducted on scene investigation and hot pursuit operation to identify and arrest the suspect/s. (PNP-13/ PIA-Caraga)


PNP arrests wanted persons

On March 4, 2009 at 11:30 in the morning at Purok-6, Barangay Amparo, Butuan City, a certain Raul Torayno, 30 years old, married and resident of Purok-6, Barangay Amparo, Butuan City was arrested by elements of Butuan City Police Station 5, Butuan City Police Office led by PO3 Jonas Cale by virtue of warrant of arrest docketed under criminal case number 37449 issued by Judge Dennis Castilla of MTCC Branch 1, Butuan City dated November 26, 2008 for violation of SP Ordinance number 894-92 with recommended bailbond of P2,000.00.

Arrested person was turned-over to City Jail for proper disposition.

Also, on March 5, 2009 at 7:30 in the morning at Barangay 3, Cabadbaran City, Elements of Cabadbaran City Police Station led by PO2 Gary Salcedo arrested the suspect identified as Ismael Daguplo, of legal age, jobless, married and a resident of said place by virtue of warrant of arrest (WOA) docketed under criminal case number 0921 for violation of Republic Act (RA) 9287 issued by Judge Dax Gonzaga Xenos of Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 34, Cabadbaran City dated February 24, 2009 with recommended bailbond of P20,000.00.

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


Sibagat avails Poder Extension

The Department of Social Welfare and Development announced today that it is extending its implementation of the Poder y Prosperidad dela Communidad Project for another year, with Sibagat, Agusan del Sur as one of the target areas.

According to Regional Director Mercedita P. Jabagat, the PODER extension is in complement with the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) wherein it answers its need for health centers and school building facilities which are necessary for the implementation of the said program.

“The PODER, through this extension, will provide the lacking facilities needed by the thousands of 4Ps beneficiaries here and based on our assessment, there are still barangays here which do not have either school or health facilities,” Dir. Jabagat said during a turn-over ceremony of a PODER Day Care Center in Poblacion, Sibagat.

Mr. Miguel Barba of the AECID, who also confirmed the news, added that they are willing to put these investments because they have seen the impact of the PODER project in the past four years, especially in Sibagat.

“Besides PODER, we also have other interventions here like our support to cooperatives on abaca production and our project with DILG that aims to strengthen performance of government officials, especially on local planning,” Mr. Barba explained.

The PODER Project, whose implementation is patterned after the KALAHI-CIDSS Project, is now on its fourth year of providing infrastructure support to Sibagat, Agusan del Sur and San Agustin and Hinatuan in Surigao del Sur. To date, it has invested a total of P66.5 million in grants for 83 sub-projects now being enjoyed by community villages in the said towns. (DSWD-13/ PIA-Caraga)


Town exec makes cash counterpart ready for more Kalahi-CIDSS Project

Loreto, Agusan del Sur Mayor Romeo Magadan in a statement recently said he is setting aside P1million cash counterpart even without the assurance that his municipality will be chosen in there will be KALAHI-CIDSS part 2. The town executive, lately approved a resolution signifying its intent to participate in the forthcoming continuation of this flagship anti-poverty project of the government implemented by the Department of Social Welfare and Development.

In a hand-over over ceremony held in Loreto last February 25, 2009, Mayor Magadan, along with eight of its council members, has signified their intent to avail more of KALAHI-CIDSS as “this is not just an answer, but a solution to the basic economic problems of our people,” he said.

The KALAHI-CIDSS Project, which started implementing in the municipality since 2004, has ended its 3-year engagement with more than P20.5 million-worth of infrastructures, 18 community projects that benefits at least 4,582 households and trained some 596 volunteers along procurement, accounting, and operations and maintenance trainings.

“As mayor of this town, I felt really blessed because my constituents are now experiencing the services that KALAHI has offered,” Magadan said. He also added that their need for water, school, health and road facilities are greatly satisfied thus improving the economic situation of his people.

Meanwhile, DSWD Regional Director Meredita P. Jabagat challenged the local government unit to maintain the infrastructures given them and to sustain the technologies introduced by KALAHI-CIDSS. She said that it may be one of the criteria for the selection of future projects to be implemented by the department.

“KALAHI-CIDSS will end this June but I believe that negotiations for the next project is underway. So I am urging you to keep your commitments and maintain the good standing of your municipality so that we will be partners again in our future endeavors,” Dir. Jabagat explained.

The KALAHI-CIDSS Project is now its final year of implementation in the municipalities of Libjo, Dinagat Islands; Pilar, San Benito and Socorro, Surigao del Norte; Bayabas, Tagbina and Marihatag in Surigao del Sur. Former KALAHI-CIDSS areas were Jabonga, Carmen and Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte; La Paz, San Luis, Esperanza and Loreto, Agusan del Sur; San Isidro, Surigao del Norte; and San Miguel, Surigao del Sur. The project, which started on 2003 will end in June 2009. (DSWD-13/ PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Thursday, March 5, 2009

Atienza bats for charcoal briquetting in waste management

BUTUAN CITY – Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Lito Atienza cited the tremendous advantages of charcoal briquetting to waste reduction and disposal as he briefed President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on the status of solid waste management in Metro Manila during the President’s weekly visit to environmental projects as climate change czar.

“The green charcoal process converts biodegradable waste and other organic materials into solid fuel, thus reducing waste that needs to be disposed,” Atienza said. The production of charcoal briquettes that use trash as raw materials also aids in the reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions to the atmosphere, he added during the Solid Waste Management forum at the Manila Police District last week.

These raw materials, he said, include paper, rice straw, coconut shell, coffee pulp, kitchen waste and even vegetable waste.

With support from no less than the President, Atienza reiterated his call for local government units (LGUs) as well as the public “to conquer garbage” through a “zero-waste lifestyle”.

Under the DENR’s Zero Basura Program, a three-pronged approach to waste reduction and minimization is being implemented through the following: 1) the installation of Materials Recovery Facilities (MRFs), 2) the construction of land-fill stations in each municipality; and 3) the re-education of the communities on the virtues of segregating waste products into bio-degradable and non-biodegradable batches.

The program, Atienza said, is geared to prioritize, operationalize, institutionalize and fast-track the implementation of Republic Act No. 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2001, and in support to government campaign on climate change involving local government units.

The production of charcoal briquettes is not only environment-friendly, it also provides alternative livelihood opportunities for the people, which is the current thrust of President Arroyo,” Atienza said.

“Our Ecosystem Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) has been working on the generation of technologies for our LGUs, notable of which is charcoal briquetting wherein leaves and other materials like coconut husks can be turned into fuel,” he said.

The technology of charcoal briquetting is already being used by some LGUs and will be made available to other LGUs, he added.

The DENR chief pointed out that the country generates about 300,000 tons of solid waste a day which, in turn, pollute the atmosphere with 675 tons of methane a day.

Methane, the second most common greenhouse gases, is 21 times more potent than carbon dioxide, a by-product of fossil fuels. This, Atienza said, underscores the importance of a drastic reduction of solid waste. (DENR-13/PIA-Caraga)


1,623 pass fire, penology officer exams

A total of 1,126 examinees passed the Fire Officer examination (FOE), while 497 others made the grade in the Penology Officer examination (POE), the Civil Service Commission (CSC) announced.

The figures, the CSC said, represent 31.9% and 27.6% of the total number of examinees who took the FOE and POE, respectively, in selected regions last November 9.

Garnering a rating of 85.09, Marisan S. Robregado from NCR topped the FOE, while Jorge R. Lechico, also from NCR, topped the POE with a rating of 89.43.

Completing the list of top 10 examinees for the FOE are: Antonio L. Garrido Jr. (NCR), 85.05; Dario L. Panerio (Bicol), 84.86; Julius G. Gesulgon (W. Visayas), 84.85; Nestor M. Conda (Bicol), 84.51; Wendel F. Figurasin (NCR), 83.92; Leonardo A. Cui Jr. (E. Visayas), 83.77; Ernesto SJ. San Diego (NCR) and Ariel S. Sabale (W. Visayas), 83.73; Richie R. Pring (NCR), 83.72; and Elberto C. Marqueses Jr. (NCR), 83.68.

For the POE: Joaquin T. Montero (W. Visayas), 86.86; Carlos G. Lanzuela Jr. (NCR), 86.62; Roger M. Aquino (NCR), 86.52; Allan D. Avecilla (NCR), 86.51; Emmanuel Adrian B. Espinosa (NCR), 86.18; Marilou M. Rico (S. Tagalog) and Salvador G. Fecara III (W. Visayas), 86.01; Jose B. Brugada Jr. (NCR), 86.00; Renante B. Tejada (C. Visayas), 85.94; and Mamarinta Boy B. Lim (NCR), 85.81.

Profile of passers showed that both examinations were dominated by males, registering at 1,093 for the FOE and 455 for the POE, against 47 FOE female passers and 48 POE female passers.

Majority of passers for both FOE and POE were aged past 35 years and cited promotion at work as their main reason for taking the examinations. This, as bulk of the passers revealed that they have been with the Bureau of Fire Protection or the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology for more than three years.

The CSC said the resulting eligibilities, which are the Fire Officer Eligibility and the Penology Officer Eligibility, are both second level eligibilities that shall be considered appropriate for second level ranks in the fire protection, jail and penology, and other functionally related ranks in the public safety service, except for uniformed personnel in the Philippine National Police.

The complete list of successful examinees of the November 9, 2008 Fire and Penology Officer examinations can now be accessed at the CSC website at http://www.csc.gov.ph/. (CSC-Caraga Public Assistance & Liaison Division/PIA-Caraga)


DAR-Agusan Del Norte joins tree planting in Mt. Mayapay

BUTUAN CITY - The Department of Agrarian Reform, Province of Agusan del Norte recently joined the “Bombo Plant a Tree Project” at Sitio Matin-aw, Brgy. Bonbon, this city.

Photo shows two personnel of DAR-Agusan del Norte committed themselves to protect the environment, aimed to save mother earth and have safer climate for the benefit of the farmers and to all humanity as a whole towards the next generation, by joining the "Bombo Plant a Tree Project" of dxBR-Bombo Radyo-Butuan. (Gil E. Miranda, DAR-Agusan del Norte/ PIA-Caraga)

This is in line with the department’s vision, not only on its program for land distribution and in providing services to the farmer-beneficiaries, but also to ensure environmental sustainability such as restoring the already depleted forest area that can cause soil erosion and flush flood that destroys many crops of farmer-beneficiaries.

“Watersheds have vital role in everyday living of our farmer-beneficiaries since it provides drinking water to the community and irrigation for their crops,” PARO Andrei Atega said.

More than 1,000 individuals from national government agencies, local government units, non-government organization (NGO), partylists, fraternities and sororities, schools and youth sector participated the activity.

About fifty (50) seedlings of trees were allotted to DAR personnel at specific site. The DAR employees eagerly showed participation by joining in the long-walk to reach the planting site and their willingness to contribute the global effort to restore the forest from total destruction is a great achievement.

Atega expressed thanks to the lead agency and Bombo Radyo for the invitation and opportunity to participate in a worthy endeavor and contribute to environmental sustainability to benefit the people in Agusan del Norte. (Gil E. Miranda, DAR-Agusan del Norte/ PIA-Caraga)


Feature: CeC Carmen: Bridge of Hope for a Brighter Tomorrow

Looking back, 2008 was a tough year for CeC Carmen brought about by an unstable political leadership that has hampered operations at the local eCenter.

During the last quarter of the same year, Hon. Ramon M. Calo regained administration of the local government, with Ms. Margie F. Braga as CeC Manager.

Fast-forward to 2009, CeC Carmen is working to regain its mandate to serve the unserved and underserved communities in the locality through information and communications technology (ICT). The eCenter has continued to deliver services through the internet particularly online communication, messaging through email and chatting, online research, job searches, as well as searches for scholarship and education grants, small business loans, and readily accessible information on agricultural and fishing technologies, and the like.

"I'm glad to serve the community once again, with the hope to achieve the realization of a CeC learning center with strong tie-ups with the eSkwela, Microsoft Unlimited Potential Program, as well as local and international agencies who share our vision of progress for the local community," Ms. Braga emphasized.

The eCenter also applied as an accreditation facility authorized by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to conduct tutorials on Computer Fundamentals, Internet and World Wide Web Fundamentals, Wordsheet and Presentation Fundamentals, for interested clients among which are barangay and SK officials.

It can be said that, indeed, ICT will help bring the town at par with other local governments elsewhere in the world, and that through information access, the masses from every segment of society, can readily empower themselves for the education they need.

Amidst the problems the LGU has faced, ICT continues to be their bridge of hope for a brighter tomorrow. (Melody M. Cocon, National Computer Center - Field Operation Office/ PIA-Caraga)



POLICE REPORTS
By PO3 Arturo Suganob Campania

Report on loose firearms

On March 3, 2009 at 4:15 in the afternoon at Purok-5, Barangay Poblacion, Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte, PNP elements of Las Nieves Municipal Police Station led by PSINSP Welson M Dela Fuerta apprehended the suspect identified as Cornelio Bagtasos, 35 years old, single and resident of Agusan Pequeño, Butuan City and a member of Mindanao Allied Force Inc (MAPI) while having in his possession one unit cal .45 pistol colt with serial number 451826, one magazine and five live ammos.

Suspect was not able to present any document pertaining to the legality of said firearm.

Suspect is now under the custody of Las Nieves Municipal Police Station for filing of appropriate charges in court. Progress report to follow.

Also, On March 4, 2009 at 11:45 in the morning, in front of FSUU University, Emily Homes Subdivision, Libertad, Butuan City, Suspect identified as Bayani Leyson, of legal age, married and resident of said place allegedly fired his handgun twice which caused panic to the people.

PNP elements of Butuan City Police Station 3 led by SPO1 Darwin Ruaya immediately responded and apprehended the suspect.

Confiscated from the suspect’s possession was one unit cal .45 pistol. Recovered from the crime scene were two spent shells of cal .45.

Suspect was brought to Butuan City Medical Center for examination and found positive of intoxicating substance. Confiscated firearm was submitted to Crime Laboratory Office 13 for ballistic examination while suspect will undergo paraffin test. Appropriate charges now prepared for filing in court. (PNP-13/ PIA-Caraga)

Arrest of wanted person

On March 3, 2009 at 8:00 in the morning at Purok-7, Barangay Cuyago, Jabonga, Agusan del Norte, a certain Artemio Cagulada Sr, 56 years old, married and resident of said place was arrested by PNP elements of Jabonga Municipal Police Station by virtue of warrant of arrest (WOA) for the crime of theft docketed under CC number 2006-19 issued by Hon Judge Dax Gonzaga – Zenos of Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 34, Cabadbaran City dated January 17, 2009.

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

Recovery of stolen items

On March 4, 2009 at 7:40 in the morning at Purok-5, Barangay San Ignacio, Butuan City, PNP elements of Theft and Robbery Unit of Butuan City Police Office led by SPO4 Antonio Claros Jr recovered one unit Nokia 1208 cell phone color red bearing serial number 356810021568458 and one Nokia 2630 color silver bearing serial number 359822018315469 from the possession of the suspect identified as Bernard Baslot, 28 years old, married and resident of Purok-7, Barangay 23 Holy Redeemer, Butuan City.

Recovered items now under the custody of Butuan City Police Office (BCPO) for investigation. Progress report to follow. (PNP-13/ PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Wednesday, March 4, 2009

GADCC-Caraga cites programs to resolve violence vs women, children

BUTUAN CITY (4 March 2009) – Commission on Human Rights (CHR)-Caraga Regional Director and Chairman of the Gender and Development Coordinating Committee (GADCC) Atty. Marilyn Pintor cited the council’s program to resolve issues particularly violence against women and children.

Commission on Human Rights (CHR)-Caraga Regional Director and Gender and Development Coordinating Committee (GADCC) Chair Atty. Marilyn Pintor presented the activities lined-up in celebration of the Women’s Month in Caraga during the taping of “Caraga in Focus”, a weekly TV program of PIA-Caraga on Monday (March 2) at the People’s Hall, City Hall, Butuan City. With Atty. Pintor are (L-R): Edna Hontiveros of Forward Filipina, an NGO whose aim is to protect women’s welfare; and DOLE-Caraga Regional Director Chona Mantilla. On the adjacent table are members of the local media and PIA-Caraga personnel. (Jennifer P. Gaitano, PIA-Caraga)

During the taping of “Caraga in Focus”, a weekly TV program of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-Caraga Region, Atty. Pintor stressed that with the increasing number of cases pertaining to violence against women and their children, GADCC and CHR is closely monitoring such cases in coordination with concerned authorities.

“Out of this increasing number of cases, rape posted the highest. And as the chairman of the council, I can assure the public that we are closely monitoring cases pertaining to violence against women and children,” Pintor said.

This week’s episode of “Caraga in Focus” featured the Women’s Month celebration as spearheaded by GADCC-Caraga.

On Monday (March 2), GADCC kicks-off the month-long celebration with the “Walk for a Cause” and “Hataw” exercise participated in by 82 private and public organizations and agencies.

Anchored on the theme “Babae, Yaman ka ng Bayan” (Woman, you are the nation’s wealth), this year’s theme highlights the critical role of women in nation-building and recognizes that women are an important resource who can contribute to the reduction of poverty.

The theme also supports the fulfillment of the country’s international treaty obligations, particularly the Convention on the Elimination of All forms of Discrimination Against women (CEDAW), the Millennium Declaration, and the International Labour Organizations (ILO) conventions.

This year’s celebration is in cognizant of the Arroyo administration’s Ten-Point Agenda and the Medium-Term Philippine Development Plan (MTPDP) from 2004-2010 which identifies the creation of three million enterprises and ten million jobs, with women as the main target of micro-finance initiatives.

The objective of this year’s celebration is to serve as a venue for sharing of inspiring stories of women entrepreneurs, lessons learned and good practices in entrepreneurial activities.

It also serves as a channel for the nationwide campaign to promote women’s economic empowerment and rights through entrepreneurship.

Meanwhile, GADCC-Caraga, the lead committee of the annual celebration in the region was organized in 1998 thru Resolution No. 38, Series of 1998 of the Regional Development Council (RDC), placing the committee under the council. (Robert E. Roperos, PIA-Caraga)

PNRC hosts IHL Forum in Surigao City

Surigao City (4 March 2009) – The Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC) – Surigao del Norte chapter hosted its Provincial Forum on International Humanitarian Law (IHL) on Tuesday, March 3 at the Surigao City Cultural Center.

Atty. Jerry Centro, San Sebastian College law professor gave a comprehensive introduction on IHL and its distinction to Human Rights.

The IHL, otherwise known as the law of war or the law of armed conflict, as discussed by Atty. Centro is a set of rules which place restrictions on the use of weapons and methods of warfare; protects people who are not, or no longer, participating in hostilities, and aims to protect human dignity and to limit suffering during times of war.

The forum highlights the major role of PNRC in the implementation of the IHL and the role of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in the implementation of IHL.

Sr. Merceditas Ang, SPC, LLB, president of St. Paul University Surigao shared the relevance of IHL in the province’s current initiative.

Participants of the forum were the rescue groups, heads of government and non-government offices in the province.

The forum aimed to raise awareness on IHL and strengthen cooperation in humanitarian initiatives especially in promoting and lobbying of both IHL and emblem bills. (Fryan E. Abkilan, PIA-Surigao del Norte)


POLICE REPORTS
By PO3 Philip Amer Posas Mazo


Alleged attempted robbery

On March 2, 2009 at 8:45 in the morning at the Provincial Capitol of Surigao del Norte, a telephone call received by Surigao del Norte Provincial Police Office (PPO) informing that the Provincial Governor's Office of Gov. Robert Ace Barbers, Provincial Legal Office and the Provincial Health Office, all of Provincial Capitol of Surigao del Norte Province were entered by unidentified suspects.

Immediately, personnel from Surigao City Police Station in coordination with SOCO Team responded and went to the said place.

Initial investigation revealed that the Provincial Governor's Office was entered by unidentified suspects gaining entrance through the backdoor of said establishment by opening its window near the door.

Culprits simultaneously robbed the Provincial Legal Office by gaining entrance at the back portion, by destroying the window which is made of decorative shells and the table drawers were forcibly opened and missing valuable items are yet to be confirmed.

Then Provincial Health Office which is situated in a separate building was also entered by unidentified suspects by forcibly destroying its padlock. However as per result of the investigation reveled that no valuable items were missing or taken by the culprits.

The Provincial Capitol of Surigao del Norte is being secured by the Civil Security Unit, SOCO Team of Surigao del Norte, and PNP also conducted proper documentation by lifting latent prints at the said offices.

Continuous investigation and intelligence monitoring is being undertaken by Surigao City Police to identify the culprits for possible filing of appropriate charges in court. (PNP-13/ PIA-Caraga)


PNP arrests wanted persons

On March 2, 2009 around 11:00 in the morning at Barangay Poblacion, Tagbina, Surigao del Sur, elements of Tagbina Municipal Police Station led by SPO4 Daniel J Barios arrested Joel Bandojo, 36 years old and a resident of Barangay Kahayagan, Tagbina, Surigao del Sur by virtue of warrant of arrest (WOA) for the crime of robbery and attempted rape docketed under CC number 2006-2-3003-T issued by Hon Judge Merlyn Pacarro Cañedo of Regional Trial Court (RTC) 11th Judicial Region, branch 29, Bislig City with bail bond recommended amounting to Php 150,000.00.

On March 2, 2009 around 2:00 in the afternoon at Sitio Ginabsan, Barangay San Isidro, Marihatag, Surigao del Sur, elements of Marihatag Municipal Police Station led by PI Danilo B Palen, COP, together with Barangay Captain Rumolo Malasarte, Barangay Tanods - Danny Urbistondo, Joel Gallego, Rolando Delos Reyes, and Gemelito Luzcida arrested a certain Jingle Tejero, 22 years old, married and a resident of Purok-Santol, Barangay San Isidro, Marihatag, Surigao del Sur.

Jingle Tejero was arrested by virtue of WOA of the crime of Murder docketed under CC number L-2194PP issued by Hon Alfredo P Jalad, Executive Judge of RTC branch 28, Lianga, Surigao del Sur with No Bail Bond recommended.

On March 1, 2009 around 5:30 in the afternoon at Barangay Libetad, Bunawan, Agusan del Sur, elements of Bunawan Municipal Police Station led by SPO2 Juliano Dacman, arrested Elmer Otaza Doblero, 41 years old, married and a resident of the above-mentioned place by virtue of WOA for the crime of homicide docketed under CC number 3622 issued by Hon Judge Evangeline Yuipco of RTC 10th Judicial Region branch 10, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur dated October 15, 1996 with no bail bond recommended.

Arrested persons now under the custody of respective Municipal Police Stations for proper disposition. (PNP-13/ PIA-Caraga)


Report on illegal gambling

On March 2, 2009 at 8:30 in the evening at Purok-8 R. Rosales Street, Barangay Limaha, Butuan City, elements of Butuan City Police Station 1 (BCPS1) Vice Control Section led by PSI Ronaldo V Plaza in coordination with BCPS 2 led by PSI Inocencio T Amora, executed the Search Warrant with number 1052-2009 for violation of Republic Act (RA) 9287 (Illegal Gambling) dated 25 February 2009, issued by Hon Emmanuel E Escatron, Presiding Judge, Hall of Justice, Butuan City against the suspect identified as Annabel Pejoles, 45 years old, widow, and a resident of Purok-8 R. Rosales Street, Barangay Limaha, Butuan City for Alleged Lotto/Swertres General Coordinator.

Seized from the suspect’s possession during the search were the following illegal gambling paraphernalia such as 13 pieces filled up lotto/swertres tally sheets dated March 2, 2009; five pieces swertres tips; 87 pieces issued swertres ticket stubs; two pads blank swertres stubs; two pieces calculator; one piece stapler; one unit fax machine; and cash bet in the amount of Php 1,715.00.

Arrested suspect was brought to BCPS 1 for recording, documentation and filing of appropriate charges in court. (PNP-13/ PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Tuesday, March 3, 2009

GADCC’s “Walk-for-a-cause” and “Hataw” exercise kick-off Women’s Month Celebration in Caraga

BUTUAN CITY (3 March) – As mandated in Proclamation No. 227 “Providing for the observance of the Month of March as ‘Women’s Role in History Month’, the Gender and Development Coordinating Committee (GADCC) of Caraga Region spearheaded the conduct of Women’s Month Celebration with the theme “Babae, Yaman ka ng Bayan”, which was highlighted with a fun walk dubbed “Walk-for-a-cause” in the opening ceremony followed with a “Hataw Exercise”, held this morning (Tuesday), March 3, 2009, this city.

PIA-Caraga headed by OIC Abner Caga (left, in blue and white-collared shirt) together with students of the College of Information Technology (CIT) of Saint Joseph Institute of Technology is among the 82 participating offices (both private and public) during the fun walk on Tuesday (March 3) that kicked-off the celebration of Women’s Month in Caraga Region. (Gerie Mae G. Coco & Robert E. Roperos, PIA-Caraga)

GADCC Chairperson and Commission on Human Rights (CHR) Caraga Regional Director Atty. Marilyn Pintor welcomed and acknowledged the presence of the participants from the government and private sectors who also participated in the “Walk-for-a-cause” which started at 5:30 in the morning from the Agusan del Norte Capitol grounds and proceeded to Butuan City Hall, and also joined in the Hataw Exercise.

Atty. Marilyn Pintor, Regional Director of the Commission on Human Rights (CHR)-Caraga and Chairperson of the Gender and Development Coordinating Committee delivers her message during the Opening Ceremonies of the Women’s Month celebration in Caraga Region on Tuesday (March 3) highlighting the fun walk and “hataw” exercise at the Butuan City Hall grounds. (Gerie Mae G. Coco & Robert E. Roperos, PIA-Caraga)

In her speech, Atty. Pintor said that this year’s theme highlights the critical role of women in nation-building and recognizes that women are an important resource who can contribute to the reduction of poverty, and it also supports the fulfillment of the country’s international treaty obligations particularly Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), the Millennium Declaration, and International Labour Organizations (ILO) conventions.

“To serve as a venue for sharing of inspiring stories of women entrepreneurs, lessons learned and good practices in entrepreneurial activities; and to serve as a channel for the nationwide campaign to promote women’s economic empowerment and rights through entrepreneurship are the two main objectives of this year’s celebration” Atty. Pintor added.

Employees of the 82 participating agencies actively executing exercise routine during the “Hataw Exercise” held in Butuan City Hall grounds (March 3) during the Opening Ceremonies of Women’s Month celebration in Caraga Region. (Gerie Mae G. Coco & Robert E. Roperos, PIA-Caraga)

Meanwhile, it was also learned that another activity will be conducted on March 10, 2009 (Tuesday) dubbed as “Kalandrakas sa Kababaihan V” which is said to be a venue for Technology transfer for Livelihood opportunities and skills development; trade fair; ukay-ukay; GAD film showing; beauty and massage parlors, parlor games; and creates a venue for information dissemination on GAD issues and concerns to be held in one of the hotels here.

Together with the students of the College of Information Technology (CIT) of Saint Joseph Institute of Technology (SJIT) in Butuan City, personnel of Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-Caraga take time posing in front of the camera right after the Opening Ceremonies of the Women’s Month Celebration in Caraga Region on Tuesday (March 3) highlighting the fun walk and “hataw” exercise held at the Butuan City Hall grounds. (Gerie Mae G. Coco & Robert E. Roperos, PIA-Caraga)

Also, on March 31, 2009, a sportsfest and culmination activity will also be conducted at the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) grounds.

With these scheduled activities, GADCC encourages the public to support and witness the set activities and inspires women to good partnership with the society. (Jennifer P. Gaitano, PIA-Caraga)

Cebu Pacific beefs up Cebu hub operations anew; re-opens Siargao airport

Low-fare airline Cebu Pacific (CEB) will start flying directly from Cebu to Siargao on March 4, providing travelers from the Visayas and Mindanao regions easy access to internationally-renowned surfing sites.

The airline will re-open Siargao airport with a thrice weekly service: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, sparing travelers to the surfing destination a three-hour bus ride and ferry from Surigao City, Surigao del Norte. CEB is the only airline flying this route.

Last March 3, CEB also started a thrice weekly direct service between Cebu and Dumaguete, every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

The lowest available year-round ‘Go Lite’ fare for Cebu-Siargao and Cebu-Dumaguete starts from P1,188 and P688, respectively.

Candice Iyog, CEB VP for marketing and distribution, said, “The country has so many world-class natural attractions. Cebu Pacific strives to provide ample and convenient access to these sites in order to encourage tourist arrivals and economic development in these destinations.”

CEB will further intensify its Cebu hub operations by expanding its Cebu-Ozamiz service from four times weekly to a daily service. The airline will also increase its Cebu-Cagayan de Oro service from 28 times weekly to 36 times weekly, with the help of an additional Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday evening service.

The airline is also offering a Manila-Siargao connection via Cebu. The lowest available ‘Go Lite’ through fare for this route starts from P2,188.

CEB continues to be the largest airline operating from Mactan Cebu International Airport. From Cebu, it flies to 19 domestic destinations and four international cities.

Now on its 13th year, CEB continues to have the youngest aircraft fleet in the Philippines, comprised of 11 Airbus A320, 10 Airbus A319, and seven ATR 72-500. (Michelle de Guzman, Cebu Pacific/PIA-Surigao del Norte)


Provincial participants attended PDPFP Workshop

About 30 participants from the five provinces of Caraga Region attended the Preliminary Planning Workshop for the formulation of the Provincial Development and Physical Framework Plan (PDPFP) on February 26, 2009 at the Luciana Convention Center, Butuan City.

During the activity, the participants were re-oriented on the PDPFP Guidelines. The status of preparation of the respective PDPFPs of the provinces was then assessed, starting with the review of the first part of the plan, including the introduction and vision and the other plan components. The provincial teams acknowledged the need to enhance their plan documents.

As a next step, the provincial teams of Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Norte and Surigao del Sur shall convene for a writeshop on the PDPFP on March 17-19, 2009 in Surigao City. The Province of Dinagat Islands, being the newest province in the region, shall hold a separate workshop on March 23-26, 2009 in San Jose, Dinagat Islands to allow ample time for securing the data needed in formulating the planning environment part of the plan. (Melanie A. Maur, NEDA-13/ PIA-Caraga)


Feature: Discover the Enchanted Place that is Bucas Grande Island

Socorro or Bucas Grande Island, as known by old folks, is a lone, beautiful island which is part of Siargao, Surigao Del Norte. The island offers a lot of activities and adventures such as mountain-trekking, spelunking and boating along with great views of lagoons and beach resorts. Many have not known what this place has in treasures and still there are more to discover.

Likely so, the LGU did want to advertise their touristy treasures in the four corners of the world and had thought of creating their own nook in the World Wide Web. Though, initially, the local government had established their web presence, it was felt that the site needs regular update and technological innovation to make it more attractive to clients.

Consequently, the said aspiration was achieved through the assistance of National Computer Center - Field Operation Office, through its Regional IT Coordinator for Region XIII, Ms. Melody Cocon and an ITU Staff of the Province of Surigao Del Norte, Mr. JC M. Penados.

"The Local Government of Socorro is very grateful on the enthusiasm of NCC especially on initiating and helping us established our own website," said Ms. Zenith Rivas, LGU Tourism Officer who serves as Webmaster for the site.

If you want an adventure of a lifetime, Bucas Grande Island welcomes you as you unravel its treasures at www.socorro.gov.ph. Be mystified. (Melody Cocon, National Computer Center - Field Operation Office/ PIA-Caraga)


POLICE REPORTS
By PO3 Arturo Suganob Campania

Report on illegal gambling

On March 2, 2009 at 1:56 in the afternoon at Purok-2, Barangay Das-agan, San Francisco, Agusan del Sur, Intel operatives of Agusan del Sur Provincial Police Office (PPO) led by SPO3 Alejandro N Pascual, conducted operation against illegal gambling which resulted to the confiscation of one unit video karera machine at the residence of a certain Daniel Mereno, of legal age, married and resident of said place.

Said operatives proceeded to the residence of a certain Avelino Queruben, of legal age, married and confiscated another one unit video karera machine. Confiscated items were brought to San Francisco Municipal Police Station for documentation while appropriate charges are being prepared for filing in court against said person. (PNP-13/ PIA-Caraga)


PNP probes vehicular accident

One Yamaha STX 125 single motorcycle with plate nr LM 4231 owned and driven by PO3 Leonilo Orit y Famaos, PNP member assigned at San Miguel Police Station and a resident of San Miguel, Surigao del Sur while traveling along National Highway and maneuvering left turn bound for Barangay Telaje, Tandag City was accidentally bumped to another Yamaha STX 125 tricycle passing with City plate number 0182, driven by a certain Jonnie Canda, of legal age, and resident of Minaman, Libas, San Miguel, Surigao del Sur.

PO3 Leonilo Orit suffered injuries and immediately brought to Adela Serra Ty Memorial Medical Center, Tandag City for medical treatment.

Both vehicle incurred damages and temporarily impounded to Tandag City Police Station for proper disposition. (PNP-13/ PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Monday, March 2, 2009

DPWH Jobs Fair brings opportunities to Caraganons

BUTUAN CITY (2 March 2009) – The simultaneous nationwide Jobs Fair program of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) gives opportunities to Caraganons to work and in some way, helping them in coping with the economic crisis that is felt globally.

DPWH-Caraga Regional Director Evelyn T. Barroso (center) explains to local media the mechanics in hiring new workers to augment the needed manpower in implementing the infrastructure projects in Caraga. According to RD Barroso, for Caraga Region, some 15,000 workers needed in the manpower complement. Also in photo (L-R) are Fe T. Rosales of DOLE-Caraga and Ferdinand Obien, National Contractors Association of the Philippines (NACAP)-Caraga Chapter President, while PIA-Caraga cameraman Robespierre Tradio covers the activity. (Robert E. Roperos & Gerie Mae G. Coco, PIA-Caraga)

Through the regional office of DPWH in Caraga, 338 new workers were hired on-the-spot out of 1,257 applicants by 23 contractors. The jobs fair were conducted in the different District Engineering Offices of the provinces of the region on February 25, 2009, two days after the regional office conducted its launching on February 23.

During the press conference attended by members of the local media in this city, DPWH-Caraga Regional Director – Engr. Evelyn T. Barroso pointed out that throughout the program, DPWH will be hiring some 15,000 workers in the region to compliment the required manpower in the implementation of projects throughout the region.

National Contractors Association of the Philippines (NACAP) President Mr. Ferdinand Obien (right) discusses the role of NACAP in support to the nationwide Jobs Fair program of the national government. Also in photo are Fe Rosales of DOLE-Caraga (left) and DPWH-Caraga Regional Director Evelyn T. Barroso (center) during the press conference conducted in time with the Jobs Fair held at the Regional Office of DPWH-Caraga… MORE PHOTOS IN PHOTO RELEASES… (Robert E. Roperos & Gerie Mae G. Coco, PIA-Caraga)

“We need at least 15,000 field workers to compliment the needed manpower in implementing the infrastructure projects in the entire region”, Dir. Barroso said.

When asked if the program is in line with the SONA commitment of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Barroso said the program is different from the implementation of SONA-committed projects. “No, this program is separate from the SONA-committed projects of the President. Thus, separate set of manpower is needed in this program”, she said.

Moreover, Barroso said that the bottomline of having this program of the national government is to assist the Filipinos especially in the present time where financial crisis is experienced globally. (Robert E. Roperos, PIA-Caraga)

BFP Caraga observes Fire Prevention Month

SURIGAO DEL NORTE (2 March 2009) - “Fire Safety: A Challenge, Concern and Priority for Everybody" goes the theme for Fire Prevention Month this March.

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) – Regional Office 13 spearheaded the yearly observance last Sunday, March 1 with a motorcade along the main streets of Surigao City participated in by different fire brigades and rescue groups, namely, Surigao City Fire Station, Regional Emergency Medical & Rescue Service, Quick Action Response Team, Fil-Chinese Volunteer Fire Brigade, Rescue 44, Air Transportation Office, CRUISERS Inc., KARANCHO Inc., PNP-Surigao City, BJMP Reg’l Office, Tagana-an Fire Station, Claver Fire Station, and Placer Fire Station and other non-government organizations.

Highlighting the event was the inauguration of 6 more fire hydrants in the city.

City Fire Marshall CInsp. Ramon Capundag bared a total of 22 fire hydrants currently installed in the major streets in the city.

BFP Regional Director SSupt. Warlito Daus, in an interview revealed a series of activities lined-up for this month aimed at raising the level of public awareness and encouraging community participation concerning fire safety and prevention like a holding of Brgy. Ugnayan in the different barangays of the region, Fire Olympics, Musika Laban sa Sunog and a massive inspection to all establishments in the region to ensure that they will comply with the standards in fire first aid and requirements as well as their fire safety plans.

Daus, also shared the recently passed Republic Act no. 9514 or the “Fire Code of the Philippines of 2008” which was recently signed by Mrs. Arroyo last December 22. With this new law it outlines a safety measures to prevent fire and to professionalize the fire services in the country. (Fryan E. Abkilan, PIA-Surigao del Norte)


Services group dominates Caraga’s economy

BUTUAN CITY (2 March 2009) – The services group dominates the economy at the regional level where seven out of 10 establishments are providing services. The Wholesale and Retail Trade has the highest number of establishments, with 54 establishments out of the 222 establishments in the region. The National Statistics Office (NSO) Caraga reveals this during the Regional Data Dissemination Forum of the 2006 Census of Philippine Business and Industry (CPBI), here in this city, recently.

Based on the preliminary results of the 2006 CPBI, Caraga Region had a total of 222 establishments with average total employment (ATE) of 20 and over. Seven in 10 of these establishments are providing services in different parts of the region. The Wholesale and Retail Trade dominate the services group with a total of 54 establishments. Quoted as stated in the NSO Caraga Special Release.

Total employment for all sectors reached 23,732 with 23,496 paid employees. In 2006 more than one-half of the employees are engaged in the industry group. This was followed by the services sector with 42.63 percent share.

The total compensation paid by all sectors in the region in 2006 amounted to P2.241 billion registering an Average Annual Compensation of P95,385. Total compensation increased by 23.22 percent from the 2005 figure of P1.818 billion.

The industry group pays the highest among all sectors recorded at P1.266 billion. Total compensation paid by the services group reached P876.824 million while Agriculture paid P97.818 million.

The 2006 CPBI covered establishments engaged in 14 economic sectors classified under the amended 1994 Philippine Standard Industrial Classification (PSIC). It is also divided into 3 major groups, namely the agriculture, services and industry groups.

The agriculture group consists of agriculture, hunting, forestry, and fishing. The industry group is composed of mining and quarrying, manufacturing, electricity, gas and water supply and construction sectors.

The services group on the other hand comprises of the wholesale and retail trade, hotels and restaurants, transportation, storage and communication, financial intermediation, real estate, renting and business activities, private education, and health and social work. (Lovely Laudette Gamba, PIA-13)


Credibility, transparency more important than speed in 2010 elections—NSA Gonzales

“CREDIBILITY and transparency of the entire election process are as important as, or even more important than, speed in the proclamation of election results in 2010.”

National Security Adviser Norberto Gonzales yesterday made this assertion as he reacted to the Commission on Elections’ claim that the results of the presidential elections will be known at the end of the voting day itself with the poll automation version that the body has chosen to adopt, the optical mark recognition (OMR) system.

“Speed alone will not make an election credible; transparency will. And speed should not be achieved at the expense of credibility, ” Gonzales said, explaining that OES is the automated election system that is “most transparent, least vulnerable to wholesale fraud and most fit to the present level of readiness of the country’s electorate.”

Gonzales pointed out that most of the country’s electorate at present have not touched a computer. He added: “Most voters would trust a system more where they can actually see the counting of ballots.”

OES combines manual voting and precinct counting with automated consolidation and transmission of votes from the polling centers to the national level while OMR operates through instantaneous and internal tally of votes.

Gonzales noted that the proponents of OES have explained that OMR is vulnerable to automated wholesale fraud because it involves software programs with key to code known only to the vendor and the Comelec and these software programs can be manipulated by a few computer specialists.

OES is proposed by a group of election automation experts led by former Comelec chair Christian Monsod. Gonzales, along with at least 38 bishops and the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines’ socio-political arm, the National Secretariat for Social Action, has been backing the group’s proposal.

In their letter to the Comelec, the bishops expressed their fear for the fact that in OMR, the electorate cannot manually recheck or validate the results of the election.

The Malacanang official emphasized that though OES will not be as speedy as OMR in coming up with the final tally, it will already cut the time of canvassing for votes for national positions from more than forty days to just 4-5 days, without compromising transparency of the process and the credibility of its results.

Gonzales also refuted the claim of the Comelec that the OES is against Republic Act 9369, the law on election automation.

“There is no provision in the law prohibiting the Comelec from adopting this combined election system,” he said. (Louie Ceniza, NSC/ PIA-Caraga)


POLICE REPORTS
By PO3 Philip Amer Posas Mazo

Report on recovered motorcycle

On February 28, 2009 at 5:00 in the afternoon at Nasipit, Agusan del Norte, a joint operation was conducted by elements from Butuan City Police Office Task Force Carnapped Motorcycle led by PSI Rowena Martinez and Butuan City Police Station 2 led by PSI Inocencio Amora and recovered one unit SYM motorcycle color black, bearing chassis number RL6XBIIAD 626006583 with engine number VMVX322D006797 from the possession of a certain Albert Bernaldez of Nasipit, Agusan del Norte.

The suspect identified as Rex Bandola, a resident of Montilla Boulevard, Butuan City, allegedly sold said motorcycle. Investigation is still ongoing. (PNP-13/ PIA-Caraga)

Report on illegal gambling

On February 28, 2009 at 8:00 in the morning at the National Highway crossing Barangay Cavcavan, Carmen, Surigao del Sur, suspect identified as Ranilo Palparan, 45 years old, married and a resident of Barangay San Juan, Madrid, Surigao Sur was arrested by PNP elements of Carmen Police Station led by SPO1 Romulo Tare after being caught in the act engaging in Illegal Gambling activity locally known as "last Two Digits" and Swertres.

Confiscated from the suspect’s possession were bet money worth Php 100.00 and gambling paraphernalia.

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

Report on shooting incident

Victim identified as Welito Sacarez Eduzma, a minor, out of school youth and a resident of P. Reyes Extension, Barangay Taft, Surigao City was shot by a certain Jaime Santesas Guliman, 29 years old, married and a Security Guard of Tactical Expert Security and Protective Services, native of Barangay Jaliobong, Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte and presently residing at Bagong Silang, Barangay Washington, Surigao City.

Investigation disclosed that said victim and a certain "Jr" were able to enter inside the Jaguar Cargo Vessel at the port area and stole a sack of copra then ran away.

Upon discovery of Security Guard Jaime Guliman who was on duty when the stealing took place, immediately he fired a single shot using his issued 12 gauge shotgun hitting the victim to his body and rushed by the responding PNP personnel of Surigao City Police Station (SCPS) to Caraga Regional hospital for medical treatment and is now out of danger.

Suspect voluntarily surrendered the SCPS police. Appropriate criminal case is now prepared for filing in court against the suspect. (PNP-13/ PIA-Caraga)