PIA News Service - Friday, Jan. 29, 2010

Number of registered voters in Caraga Region jump 11.29% to 1.38M

BUTUAN CITY - The number of registered voters for the 2010 elections in Caraga Region or Region 13 reached 1,378,132, up 11.29 percent from the 1,238,327 registered in 2007 local and national elections, latest records from the Joint Security Control Center (JSCC) show. 

The Joint Security Control Center (JSCC) is a body overseeing security matters for honesty, orderly and peaceful elections which is composed of the COMELEC, the Philippine National Police (PNP) and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). 

Agusan del Sur topped the four other provinces composing Caraga region, with 325,642 registered voters, up 17.20 percent from 277,840 in 2007 elections. 

Surigao del Sur followed with 335,492, up 10.97 percent from 302,323; Surigao del Norte with 288,653, or 10.28 percent higher than 261,736 in 2007 elections; Agusan del Norte with 357,992, or 8.12 percent from 330,996; and Dinagat Islands province with 70,353, up 7.42 percent to 65,492. 

The total number of PCOS machines allocated for the five provinces of the region is 2,145 units. 

PCOS machine allocations are to be distributed to 2,135 total clustered polling precints in a total of 1,310 barangays of the region. 

Caraga Region has an average of 78 percent turnout of voters in 2001, 2004 and 2007 local and national elections, including the 2008 nationwide barangay election. (Ben Serrano, PNA)

PIA News Service - Thursday, Jan. 28, 2010

GADCC intensifies CEDAW 
By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY (27 January) – The Gender and Development Coordinating Committee (GADCC) Caraga intensifies the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) in the region during its planning workshop attended by focal persons and representatives of various stakeholders, held recently in one of the local convention centers here.

Commission on Human Rights (CHR) Caraga Regional Director and GADCC Chairperson Atty. Marylin Pintor shortly discussed the obligations of the Philippines as state party to CEDAW. 

“Repeal all discriminatory laws and practices; enact anti-discrimination policies and provide effective mechanisms and remedies where women can seek redress for rights violators; promote equality through all appropriate means including proactive measures, enabling conditions and affirmative action; and make a national report every four years on measures that have been taken to comply with the treaty obligations are the obligations of the Philippines as state party to CEDAW,” Atty. Pintor said.

To better understand discrimination against women, Atty. Pintor stressed that it is in any distinction, exclusion or restriction made on the basis of sex which has the effect or purpose of impairing or nullifying the recognition, enjoyment or exercise by women, irrespective of their marital status, on a basis of equality of men and women, of human rights and fundamental freedoms in the political, social, cultural, civil or any other field. 

Meanwhile, Atty. Pintor explained CEDAW’s aim to end discrimination. According to her, the law (CEDAW) aims to bring about substantive equality of women, carries with it the principle of state obligation, prohibits actions and policies that put women at a disadvantage whatever its intentions, it tasks states parties to prevent women’s rights violations not only by state institutions and government officials, but also by private individuals and groups, and it recognizes the influence of culture and tradition on restricting women’s enjoyment of their rights, and challenges states parties to change stereotypes, customs and norms that discriminate against women.

Also, during the open forum, GADCC focal persons gathered issues and concerns on women’s discrimination. One of the concerns raised was the rights of women especially in the availment of leave credits. 

All issues and concerns raised during the open forum were well noted by Atty. Pintor and she then solicited strategies from the members on how to lessen if not totally solve the existing problems that most women are now facing.

With the upcoming Women’s Month Celebration on March 2010, GADCC set various activities for all its members to enjoy and to give importance to women’s existence. (PIA-Caraga)  


CHR to probe 18 extralegal killings in Agusan del Sur

BUTUAN CITY, Jan. 28 - The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) started its two-day public inquiry Thursday at the downtown hotel and convention center here, on the alleged 18 extrajudicial killings which victimized mostly indigenous people (IP) in the landlocked province of Agusan del Sur. 

The string of extrajudicial killings appear to be related to the simmering rivalries between warring local clans. 

Summoned thereto were the complainants and witnesses in various extralegal killings being investigated by CHR-Caraga region, including the killing of the Manobo chieftain and relatives of the Ondo Perez clan. 

Also invited were provincial officials of Agusan del Sur led by Governor Maria Valentina Plaza, Caraga regional officials of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), barangays officials, and military and police officers having jurisdiction over the areas where the killings occurred. 

Explaining the rationale for the public inquiry, CHR Chairperson Leila De Lima said “After further follow up investigations in the wake of the Dec. 10, 2009 incident allegedly perpetrated by the Ondo Perez group, we are certain that the abduction was only a strand in a greater scheme of impunity, criminality and violence gripping Agusan del Sur.” 

Reports from the informants and from the CHR regional office in CARAGA show that the Ondo Perez Group is not the only group operating in the province and perpetrating the crimes. 

De Lima remarked, “The killings in Agusan are related to warring tribal groups or factions. It certainly does not help the situation when the military and police appear to be pitting one indigenous peoples faction against the other.” 

It can be recalled that members of the Ondo Perez group lamented that their rivals were not being pursued for criminal activities, and only their group was the subject of the police manhunt that ended with the abduction of at least 57 civilians including children last month. 

“This is a crucial detail in uncovering the true circumstances of peace and order in Agusan del Sur, particularly on the conduct of law enforcement,” added De Lima. 

“Not only does it bode unfavorably for the police and military, but it corroborates long-held suspicions that clan-related violence is sanctioned by law enforcement agencies. There is this suspicion that they are pitting armed group against each other. For what purpose, we are not sure,” she further added. 

“But we do know that it perpetuates the string of killings in Agusan Del Sur,” De Lima said. 

From the records of the CHR-Caraga regional office, there are at least 18 extrajudicial killings that are almost certainly related to the clan wars in Agusan del Sur. 

De Lima said, “These killings are definitely part of the puzzle and that is why we are not narrowing the investigation into the abduction incident or even the Ondo Perez faction. There are more personalities involved, more human rights violations occurring in Agusan del Sur and therefore, a more complex problem for peace and security in the province requiring a comprehensive solution. Finding a complete and thoughtful solution is the purpose of this inquiry, and we must begin with culling all the information that is available.” 

De Lima and Commissioner Jose Manuel Mamauag, the focal Commissioner for Caraga, will lead the inquiry, assisted by CHR Caraga Atty. Marylin Pintor. (muc/PIA-Caraga)

 
Urge the passage of Senate Bill 741 banning asbestos

Manila (28 January) - With the end of the official session of the 14th Congress on February 5, 2010 fast approaching, the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP), the Associated Labor Unions (ALU) and the Building and Woodworkers International (BWI) launched an email campaign urging the Senate to pass Senate Bill 741 banning asbestos.

The email campaign calls on the Senate Committee on Trade and Commerce to integrate workers concerns in the bill filed by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago to minimize the risks of asbestos exposure to workers, their families and the public. The bill has been pending with the Committee since August 29, 2007. A similar bill passed earlier in the House of Representatives.

“Asbestos is a danger to everyone because asbestos fibers penetrate deep into the lungs once inhaled, causing incurable and fatal asbestos-related diseases such as asbestosis, mesothelioma and lung cancer,” says Rafael Mapalo, TUCP deputy spokesperson. “There is no safe level of exposure and the most effective way to protect people from asbestos exposure is to ban the substance,” adds Mapalo.

“Workers, their families and the public are exposed to asbestos in workplaces, buildings and materials containing asbestos,” says Gerard Seno, ALU National Vice President. “By banning its use the government will be protecting Filipinos from the health and safety hazards of asbestos exposure,” adds Seno.

“A recent study by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) reconfirmed the cancer-causing effects of asbestos, leaving the prevailing medical evidence against asbestos irrefutable,” shares Apolinar Tolentino, Officer in Charge of the BWI Asia Pacific Regional Office. “The more asbestos ban is delayed, the more workers, their families and the public are at risk,” warns Tolentino.

Senate Bill 741 with proposed amendments seeks to minimize the risks of asbestos exposure and lays down the framework for the early detection and diagnosis of asbestos-related diseases. 

TUCP, ALU and BWI encourage their members and their contacts and the public nationwide to participate in the email campaign, found at http://tinyurl.com/ban-asbestos in the TUCP website. TUCP and BWI help in bringing in international support to the campaign. 

Senders must type in their name, email address, municipality/city/province and union or organization, may use the existing message, and must click the Submit button at the bottom of the page. The email goes to Senator Mar Roxas as the Committee Chair copy furnished the Senate President and members of the Senate Committee on Trade and Commerce.

The email campaign will help push the Senate to act on the urgency of banning asbestos. Any delay causes more exposure that will result in contracting asbestos related diseases and deaths in the years to come. (DMT/PIA-Surigao del Norte)


Applications for gov’t scholarship accepted ‘til February 10

Here’s good news for government workers who want to pursue a master’s degree.

The Civil Service Commission (CSC), through its Regional and Field Offices, is accepting applications for the Local Scholarship Program-Master’s Degree Course (LSP-MDC) Written Test until February 10 this year.
Under the program, a one-year scholarship grant to pursue master’s degree shall be provided government employees after passing the written test and an interview. The LSP-MDC Written Test, which will be conducted nationwide on March 28, 2010, is intended for school year 2011-2012.

State workers who hold a bachelor’s degree and a permanent appointment for the last three years, who have a performance rating of at least “Very Satisfactory” for the last two consecutive rating periods, who have not earned any master’s degree, who have not been convicted of any administrative/criminal offense for the last three years, who are in good health and physically and mentally fit to perform graduate studies, may qualify for the scholarship program.

The scholarship is also open to state employees who have previously earned master’s units, who are on thesis writing, who have availed of a short-term course, and even those who have pending administrative cases, without prejudice to automatic revocation of the scholarship should they later be found guilty of an administrative offense. Employees who hold co-terminus appointment, so long as they can fulfill the service obligation and are not related to the agency head within the fourth degree of consanguinity or affinity, may also apply for the program.

Interested applicants must complete the following requirements and submit them to the CSC Regional or Field Office concerned: 1] Properly accomplished application form (CS Form 101-B, Revised March 2006 available at CSC Regional/Field Offices and website www.csc.gov.ph); 2] Four copies of identical, 1.5” x 2” I.D. pictures with full name tag and taken within the last three months prior to application; 3] Original and photocopy of one valid I.D. card; 4] Photocopy of performance rating for the last two consecutive rating periods prior to application; 5] Photocopy of college diploma, or certificate of graduation; 6] Service record for the last three years; and 7] Medical certificate on the state of health and physical and mental fitness of the applicant. No examination fee will be charged.

All applicants must have the nomination of their respective agency heads.

For details, log on to the CSC website at www.csc.gov.ph. (CSC/PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Wednesday, Jan. 27, 2010

DTI Consumernet planning session set in Butuan
By Mike A. Imbo

BUTUAN CITY (27 January) – Implementing the importance of education towards a protected consumer, the Consumernet Caraga through the Regional Office of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in collaboration with Consumer Welfare Division will hold Consumernet meeting on Thursday ( January 28) at DTI-Caraga Regional Office. 

In a written statement from DTI-Regional Director Brielgo Pagaran, the activity will commence the first quarterly meeting of the network composed of stakeholders from the public and private sectors.

The forum will focus on consumer complaints lodged in the past years for the Consumer Welfare Division as well as the existing activities. 

According to Dir. Pagaran, the activity will serve as a venue for the stakeholders to plan more activities where Consumernet Caraga plays vital role in implementing welfare initiatives. “Thus, the forum will highlight information on the consumer awareness and several activities can still be done to promote consumer welfare,” he said.

Dir. Pagaran also assured the public that problems on manufactured products in terms of its quality, safety, warranties, service and repair shops must be referred to the Department of Trade and Industry. “With this, I can assure that our office will act on it,” he added.

More importantly, the first quarterly meeting is set to respond to the ideas of planning session strategies and activities to contribute in the community assessment for a comprehensive livelihood and create employment program, it was gathered. (PIA-Caraga)

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TUCP steps up campaign on Reproductive Health
By Fryan E. Abkilan

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TAGAYTAY CITY (27 January) - A 3-day project implementers’ monitoring and planning workshop on Reproductive Health (RH) and Family Planning was successfully conducted here recently. 

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Backed by the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) and David and Lucile Packard Foundation, the said planning workshop was intended to assess the accomplishments of the 5-focused areas namely Cavite, Laguna, Cebu, Davao and Bacolod City and review and update priorities and consider follow-up initiatives based on project’s action plans. 

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TUCP Education and Youth Director Rafael Mapalo said that in their last phase of the program they expect to extend services and information to at least 50,000 union members and non-union members in the focused areas.

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The RH Team was elated with the output presented by the different coordinators and RH officers on the status of health services in their areas. 

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The workshop participants pledge to step-up public advocacy and campaign on RH and Family Planning services in their respective areas.

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TUCP now boasts a total of 8 union-run clinics and 6 other clinics in the export processing zones.
Interfacing, brainstorming and preparation of the local response measures to address the issues and concerns on RH and Family Planning were also among the activities during the workshop. (PIA-Surigao del Norte)
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Access to health service assured for Carmen residents

Pregnant women and children needing medical attention don’t need to travel far to Butuan City now. Assorted medical equipment purchased through assistance from Spanish aid agency Agencia Española de Cooperacion Internacional para el Desarollo (AECID) has just been delivered to Carmen Rural Health Unit to be used by personnel in serving poor families in the municipality.

Implemented by Fundacion Humanismo Y Democracia (H+D) in partnership with the Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP) and local government unit, the initiative seeks to improve access to maternal and child healthcare (MCH) services which is one of the problem affecting families in the province.  

“Poor patients have to shell out hard earned money to go to Butuan City more than 30 kilometers away to avail needed medical attention,” Dr. Bonifacion Wong Marcon disclosed. “With this medical equipment, we can now serve our constituents better,” he added. 

Carmen Mayor Ramon Calo expressed elation with the assorted equipment provided to them. “We will compliment the generosity of AECID and the Spanish People. We will ensure that budget for health is included in our priorities,” Mayor Calo said.

The medical equipment includes emergency lights, sterilizer, adjustable beds with bed sheets, assorted forceps, BP apparatuses, gooseneck lamps, I.V. stand, suction machines, surgical scissors, wheelchairs, flashlights, weighing scales, thermometers, boxes of disposable syringes and needles, bassinet newborn carriers among others. 

Carmen Town in Agusan del Norte is a fourth class municipality with most of its basic services for the people is being funded by the internal revenue allotment (IRA) from the national government. Fishing and farming are main source of livelihood.

Most of the deliveries of pregnant mothers are done at home; it was learned from health personnel interviewed at the Rural Health Unit in Carmen. “It is costly to avail medical services in the city, so most of them decide to give birth at home,” Dr. Marcon disclosed. “The medical equipment complimented with budgetary support from the local government unit will facilitate easy access to needed health services for the people,” he added.

The health initiative in Carmen is only part of a bigger undertaking by AECID to assist children and families gain access to basic services. Parallel to the health-related project, the Spanish aid agency is also engaged in education-focused project for school children in Agusan del Norte.

Included in the assistance package are also upgrading of RHUs, training and mobilization of Barangay Health Workers (BHWs), construction of lying-in clinics among others. At least seven municipalities in the province will be benefited by the project. These are the towns of Carmen, Buenavista, Remedios T. Romualdez, Nasipit, Magallanes, Tubay and Cabadbaran. (Danny Escabarte, Philippine Business for Social Progress-Mindanao Regional Operations)
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Butuan police officer named RP’s outstanding policewoman
By Jocelyn E. Morano

BUTUAN CITY (27 January) – The 2009 Search for Outstanding policewoman in the country brings pride and honor to the city’s Police Office as SPO1 Marifel Cortez is among those who were chosen from among the female police officers nationwide, and no less than Her Excellency President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo present the award in a ceremony held at Malacañang’s Rizal Hall on January 13, 2010.

The police officer was chosen as one of the 10 winners in the annual search for Outstanding Policewomen of the Philippines for their dedication and exemplary performance as peace keepers of the country.

Accordingly, SPO1 Cortez bagged the award for being active in advocating the welfare of women and children here through its continuing education forum with regards to R.A. 9262 otherwise known as the Anti-Violence Against Women and Children’s act, and R.A. 7610 “An Act Providing for Stronger Deterrence and Special Protection Against Child Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination”.

Her humanitarian activity in the Police Community Relations also added points in bagging the prestigious award given to female police officers all over the country. 

SPO1 Cortez initiated BCPO's Back to School Program, which according to Station 1 Commander Joseph Boquiren was the first in history to reach out to school children by donating school supplies taking into priority those who have little or no school supplies because of poverty.

The project was replicated to other police stations under BCPO carrying the theme “Gamit Pang Eskwela, Alay ng Pulisya.”

The “Ten Outstanding Policewomen of the Philippines” were: Police Superintendent Lailene Amparo – Marilao Police Station – Bulacan Provincial Office, Police Regional Office 3, Police Chief Inspector Delia Ingalla – Taguig City Police Office, Southern Police District, NCRPO, Police Senior Inspector Lerma Tirana – Regional Police Community Relations Division, NCRPO, Senior Police Officer 1 Marifel Cortez – Butuan City Police Office Police Regional Office 13, Police Officer 3 Zorayda Aripin – Zamboanga City Police Offide, PRO 9, PO3 Ruth Poserio – Sta. Barbara Police Station, Pangasinan Police Provincial Office, PRO 1, PO3 Judith Olbes – Sorsogon Police Provincial Office, PRO5, PO3 Lilybeth Pascual – WCPD PNCO-Camarines Sur Police Provincial Office, Police Regional Office 5, PO2 Famela Suba – Cabiao Police Station, Nueva Ecija Police Provincial Office, PRO3 and PO2 Rina Salaya – Maasin Municipal Police Station, Iloilo PPO, PRO 6. 

The search for Ten Outstanding Policewomen of the Philippines (TOPWP) was initiated by ZONTA Club of Makati Paseo de Roxas Foundation and the Philippine National Police.

Now on its eighth year, TOPWP was established to extend community recognition to policewomen who have contributed to the cause of peace and order. 

The awardees received a TOPWP Kabalikat Awards trophy and cash prize from ZONTA, a gift certificate from the Arms Corporation Philippines (ARMSCOR) and Outstanding Achievement Medal from the PNP.
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DENR-13 lauds establishment of Caraga State U

BUTUAN CITY – Department of Environment and Natural Reources (DENR) Caraga officials hailed the signing of President Gloria Macapagal – Arroyo of Republic Act 9854, establishing the Caraga State University (CSU) held recently at the Sanchez Gymnasium, CSU campus in Brgy. Ampayon, this city.

DENR Regional Executive Director Edilberto S. Buiser said the CSU Agro-Forestry degree programs will help boost DENR’s environmental protection and sustainable development thrusts.

“With the state’s support in pursuing environment-related higher education, using the rich biodiversity of Caraga region as their learning platform, our youth will surely gain strong foundations as environmental advocates and be acquainted with the best opportunities it can offer,” Buiser said.

Present during the ceremonial signing is the Regional Technical Director for Ecosystems Research and Development Services (ERDS) Virgilio dela Cruz. The ERDS is tasked in the promotion of new environmental studies and development initiatives through research.

DENR is one of the assisting agencies in CSU’s College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources projects including the “Green House” tree clonal nursery, and the in-campus indigenous mini forest taxonomy, among others.

The establishment of CSU, Caraga’s first state university augurs well with the DENR’s mandate, who oversees implementation of the multi-million peso Upland Development Project (UDP), Eastern Mindanao Biodiversity Corridor and regular programs including anti-illegal logging and reforestation, anti-pollution and geo-hazzard mapping, disaster response and mitigation --- all geared towards Climate Change adaptation.

“The government’s environmental protection and sustainable development drive had been providing thousands of jobs and there are rooms for personal and professional growth that can be derived from DENR-assisted projects. We hope to lure the top products of CSU this year,” dela Cruz said.

DENR expects an influx of enrollees taking forestry and environment-related courses at CSU, rather than go to other state universities in Marawi, Iligan, Cagayan de Oro, Davao and Metro Manila due to high cost of education. (Ronnel LMV G. Calo, DENR RPAO Staff)
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CHR to hold public inquiry into the culture of violence in Agusan del Sur which culminated in the December 2009 abduction/hostage taking incident

On the request of the CHR-CARAGA Regional Office, the Comission on Human Rights will conduct a public inquiry into the Agusan del Sur Abduction incident and a string of extrajudicial killings which victimized mostly indigenous peoples (IPs) and which appear to be related to the simmering rivalries between warring local clans.

The public inquiry is scheduled for January 28-29, 2010 at the Balanghai Hotel and Convention Center, Doongan, Butuan City. Summoned thereto are the complainants/witness in various extralegal killings being investigated by CHR-Caraga, including the killing of the chieftain and relatives of the Ondo Perez clan, as well as provincial officials of Agusan del Sur led by Gov. Maria Valentina Plaza, the Regional Director of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), barangays officials, and military and police officers having jurisdiction over the areas where the killings occurred.

Explaining the rationale for the public inquiry, CHR Chairperson De Lima said “After further follow up investigations in the wake of the Dec. 10, 2009 incident perpetrated by the Ondo Perez Gang, we are certain that the abduction was only a strand in a greater scheme of impunity, criminality and violence gripping Agusan del Sur.”

Reports from informants and from the CHR regional office in CARAGA show that the Ondo Perez Gang is not only the criminal group operating in the province, and is not the only group perpetrating many crimes, including murder. De Lima remarked, “ The killings in Agusan are related to warring tribal groups or factions. It certainly does not help the situation any when the military and police appear to be pitting one indigenous peoples faction against the other.”

It can be recalled that members of the Ondo Perez Gang lamented that their rivals were not being pursued for criminal activities, yet only their group was the subject of the police manhunt that ended with abduction of several civilians, including children.

“ This is a crucial detail in uncovering the true circumstances of peace and order in Agusan, particularly on the conduct of law enforcement,” De Lima added.

Not only does it bode unfavorably for the police and military, but it corroborates long-held suspicions that clan-related violence is sanctioned by law enforcement agencies. There is this suspicion that they are pitting armed group against each other. For what purpose, we are not sure.
But we do know that it perpetuates the string of killings in Agusan Del Sur.”

From the records of the CHR-CARAGA Office, there are at least 18 extrajudicial killings that are almost certainly related to the clan wars in Agusan del Sur.

On these murders, De Lima said “ These killings are definitely part of the puzzle, and that is why we are not narrowing the investigation into the abduction incident or even the Ondo Perez faction. There are more personalities involved, more human rights violations occurring in Agusan del Sur, and therefore, a more complex problem for peace and security in the province requiring a comprehensive solution. Finding a complete and thoughtful sulotion is the purpose of this inquiry, and we must begin with culling all the information that is available.”

The CHR Chairperson, Leila De Lima and Commissioner Jose Manuel Mamauag, the focal Commissioner for CARAGA, will lead the inquiry. (CHR/PIA-Caraga) 
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Cebuano News: Dugang patrol cars sa PNP Caraga, gitunol
By Mike A. Imbo

BUTUAN CITY ( 25 January) – Ang Police Regional Office sa PNP Caraga gidu-aw ni Police Deputy Director General Geary Barias aron sa pagpahigayon sa blessing ug turn-over sa dugang mga patrol cars ngadto sa nagkalain-laing mga probinsya sa rehiyon sa Caraga, didto sa Camp Rafael Rodriguez, Libertad, ning dakbayan, dili pa lang dugay.

Ang programa gisugdan sa usa ka Flag Raising Ceremony nga gipanguluhan ni PCSUPT Lino Calingasan, PNP Caraga Regional Director uban sa hugpong sa kwerpo sa kapulisan lukop probinsya.

Human niana, mipahigayon ang hugpong sa kapulisan sa usa ka “pass in review” nga gisaksihan sa nagkadaiyang partisipante gikan sa probinsyal ug lokal nga kagamhanan, apil sab ang mga opisyales sa regional agencies, grupo sa mga tri-media ug uban pa, didto sa hawanan sa ilang kampo.

Si Deputy Regional Director for Administration PCSUPT Nelson Nario, ang mapasalamaton sa iyang bahin atol sa iyang mensahe lambigit sa dugang pasilidad nga matod pa makatabang kini sa paspas nga pag-responde ug epektibong serbisyo publiko sa kinatibuk-ang operasyon sa kapulisan.

Si Gen. Barias ang misulti nga "the patrol cars are strictly for use during operations and official’s mandate". Hugot nga gipaabot sa opisyal nga gamiton lamang ang behikulo alang sa operasyon ug mobilisasyon.

Dugang ni Gen. Barias, gikinahanglan ang kredibilidad, pagpatuman sa balaod, aktibong pulis nga musubay sa bisyon ug misyon alang sa usa ka matinod-anong public servant sa komunidad.

Sa miaging semana, mibisita sab si Chief PNP Gen. Jesus Versoza sa rehiyon sa Caraga alang sa gilusad nga Integrated Transformation Program (ITP) diin nauna na nga gitunol ang patrol Toyota Hi-Lux ug mga radio equipment device.

Ang gibubu nga pundo alang sa kapulisan ang tipik sa modernization program sa Philippine National Police sa nasud. (PIA-Caraga)


New DENR chief reshuffles senior staff, field personnel  

BUTUAN CITY (12 January) - Newly-designated Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Eleazar Quinto issued a series of directives designating new assignments for the Department’s senior officials but also those of field officials.

“The reassignment of officials is part of DENR’s organizational development consistent with Executive Order No. 192, which reorganized the DENR in 1988,” Quinto said.

He also explained that the reorganization is intended to fast track priority programs of the present administration under President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo for the next remaining six months of her term.

Quinto is optimistic that his new management team, designated prior to the election ban, can deliver, stressing that their selection was based on performance.

“I believe that this management team with redefined tasks can deliver. Failure on their part to meet the standards of performance set before them will be dealt with accordingly,” Quinto stressed.

He added that with the new team, he expressed optimism for a more effective environmental governance, not only in the enforcement of environmental laws but more so in engaging the public in conservation efforts with the DENR personnel serving as environment multipliers. 

Under Special Order No. 5 and 10, dated January 7 and 8, 2010 respectively, the following senior and regional officials were designated as follows:

Manuel Gerochi - Undersecretary for Policy, Planning and Project Management;
Teresita Samson Castillo - Undersecretary for Management and Technical Services; Demetrio Ignacio - Undersecretary for Special Constituency and External Affairs; Regidor de Leon - OIC Asst. Secretary for Field Operations, Luzon; Jeremias Dolino - Asst. Secretary for Field Operations, Visayas; Ernesto Adobo, Jr. - OIC Asst. Secretary for Field Operations, Mindanao; Corazon Davis - OIC Asst. Secretary for Administration and Finance; Mark Allan Yambao - Asst. Secretary for Sectoral and Inter-agency Networking; Agustin Javellana - OIC Asst. Secretary for Legal Affairs

The newly-designated Regional Executive Directors are as follows: Clarence Baguilat - Cordillera Administrative Region; Samuel Peñafiel - Region 1 (Ilocos Region); Benjamin Tumaliuan - Region 2 (Cagayan Valley); Vicente Paragas - Region 4B (MIMAROPA); Julian Amador - Region 6 (Western Visayas); Arleigh Adorable - Region 9 (Western Mindanao); Maximo Dichoso - Region 10 (Northern Mindanao).
 
The newly-designated Bureau Directors and Assistant Directors are as follows:

Marcial C. Amaro, Jr. - Director, Ecosystem Research and Development Bureau; Juan Miguel T. Cuna - OIC Director, Environment Management Bureau; Carlos J. Magno - Regional Director, EMB Region 2; Loremelyn E. Claudio - Regional Director, EMB Region 3; Alan C. Aranguez - OIC, Regional Director EMB 7; Allan V. Barcena - OIC, Director Land Management Bureau; Ralph C. Pablo - OIC Asst. Director, Land Management Bureau; Daniel M. Nicer - OIC Director, Administrative Services, DENR CO; Meriam M. Marcelo - OIC Chief, Personnel Division, DENR CO.


New group formed to protect the vast forest resources within the expired tenurial instrument of PICOP Resources Inc.
By Eric F. Gallego 

BUTUAN CITY – Various agencies from the national and local government, the military and the police and environmentalists have formed a group called “Bantay Kabuhatan Alpha” over the weekend to strengthen their commitment in the protection of the vast forest resources within the expired tenurial instruments of the PICOP Resources Inc. (PRI).

The move is contained in the Memorandum of Agreement which was facilitated by the Caraga Conference for Peace and Development (CCPD) and signed by 25 different stakeholders at a simple ceremony held at the residence of Butuan City Bishop Diocese Bishop Juan de Dios Pueblos on Friday, January 15, 2010. 

In his report to DENR Secretary Eleazar P. Quinto, the DENR Regional Executive Director for Caraga Region Edilberto S. Buiser said the commitment of the 25 stakeholders was necessary in order to protect the vast forest and other natural resources inside the 179,582- hectare expired tenurial instrument of the PRI against timber poachers, illegal loggers, illegal miners , and informal settlers and squatters.  

The different agencies which have manifested its support through the Memorandum of Agreement are the DENR headed by Regional Executive Director Edilberto S. Buiser, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) under Regional Director Atty. Rene K. Burdeos, Department of Justice (DOJ) represented by Regional State Prosecutor Atty. Horacio C. Gonzaga, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) under Regional Director Brielgo O. Pagaran , the National Commission of the Indigenous Peoples (NCIP ) Regional Director Atty. Jose Dumagan, Jr, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) , Regional Director Carmencita S. Cochingco, the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) led by Regional Director Atty. Marylin M. Pintor, Philippine Information Agency (PIA) under Regional Director Abner M. Caga, the Philippine Army Commanding Officer Col Augusto L Tolentino, 401st Infantry Brigade, 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division, Philippine Army, Philippine National Police under Regional Director PC Supt. Lino D.G. Calingasan, the Mayor of Bislig City Alberto Tan, Mayor Arturo Ronquillo of Barobo, Mayor Candelario Viola, Jr. of Hinatuan, Mayor Roberto Luna, Jr. of Lingig, Mayor Donell Polizon of Tagbina all in Surigao del Sur and Governor Vicente Pimentel, the Mayors of Agusan del Sur namely Mayor Emiliano Rodriguez of Rosario, Gilbert Elorde of Bunawan , Irinea Hitgano of Trento ,Carl Elias C. Lademora of San Francisco , Governor Ma. Valentina Plaza, Congressmen Forencio Garay , 2nd District of Surigao del Sur and Rodolfo Rodrigo Plaza of Agusan del Sur and the Kalihukan Bantay Kabuhatan, Inc. represented by Parish Priest Fr. Florio R. Falcon.

CCPD Convenor Bishop Juan de Dios Pueblos said there is a need to organize the Bantay Kabuhatan Alpha to assist the illegal activities inside the former concession areas of PICOP that also cover part of the provinces of Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Sur, Davao Oriental and Compostella Valley.  

 The Kalihukan Bantay Kabuhatan Inc., a non-government organization based in Bislig City said “the task of safeguarding the area in the hands of one agency had become difficult due to the presence of armed men engaged in illegal activities, hence there is a need to address the problem”.

The DENR has also expressed its concern over the aesthetic and natural beauty of Tinuy-an Falls in the area where a couple of Philippine Eagles have been reportedly sighted. “We must preserve and protect all biodiversities in the area from human pressures by all means”, Director Buiser said. 

Based on the MOA, the DENR shall lead in the implementation of law enforcement and protection strategies and coordinate with the line agencies and non-government sectors on matters pertaining to law enforcement and forest protection in the area. 

The DENR shall also provide data, information, resources and other forms of support to its “co-members” of the Bantay Kabuhatan Alpha to effectively carry out the law enforcement and forest monitoring activities. 

The DENR Regional Technical Director (RTD) for Forestry Ali M.Bari has expressed his appreciation over the signing of the MOA saying “the DENR is very grateful to the CCPD and the different stakeholders for their support in protecting the forest resources at the former concession areas of the PICOP”. 

He said this is the only place in the country where an organization like CCPD is at the forefront of the environment sustainable development which is important in making the mission of the DENR light and easy”. (Eric F. Gallego, DENR-13/ PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2010

TUCP strengthens services on RH, Family Planning in workplace
By Fryan E. Abkilan

Manila (26 January) – The Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) vowed to continue its services on Reproductive Health (RH) and Family Planning to all its union members and non-union members at the workplace . 

TUCP Education and Youth Director Rafael Mapalo in an interview with PIA said that more workers, may they be union members or not, will get improved health and welfare on reproductive health and family planning as they continue on advocating and providing RH services to the community.

In its 10th year of implementation, Mapalo bared the establishment of union-run and managed family welfare clinics staffed by trained nurses and midwives in 5 different areas in the country where “our presence is strongly felt” namely Cavite, Laguna, Davao, Cebu and Bacolod City. 

With funding support from the David and Lucille Foundation, TUCP’s initiative at the workplace resulted in the inclusion of some specific provisions that defines the commitment of employers in dealing with the needs of the workers with regards to RH and family planning concerns.

“We were able to capacitate the Trade Unions to negotiate with management so that management can get funds to support RH services like maternal and child health nutrition, counseling for HIV AIDS and training of trade union members and the like,” said Mapalo.

TUCP as a labor organization promised to continue on advocating and providing services to all its members for they believe that good health is a human right. (PIA-Surigao del Norte)


P1-B road construction project set for release in twin Agusan provinces

BUTUAN CITY, Jan. 26 - The government is set to release the P1-billion fund for the fast-tracking of ground works of the Butuan City and Agusan del Sur road project, a public works and highways official said Tuesday. 

This fund is part of the P1.73-billion Philippine-Japan Highway Loan-Project Management Office (PJHL-PMO) of Butuan City-Las Nieves-Esperanza-Bayugan City Road project under the Philippine-Japan Highway Loan-Project Management Office. 

This road project will serve as a link between Butuan City, Agusan del Norte and Agusan del Sur in Northeastern Mindanao (Region Xlll) and ultimately connect to the agricultural-rich province of Bukidnon in Northern Mindanao (Region 10). 

This multi-year 2009-2010 project is one of the mega-billion projects of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) promised in Northeastern Mindanao. 

Last year, the government initially released P500 million for the immediate start of the ground works of the 61-kilometer Rural Road Network Development Project-III (RRNDP) of Butuan City-Las Nieves-Esperanza-Bayugan City road project. 

This mega-billion project was started on March last year and is expected to be completed on June 2011, said Public Works and Highways Undersecretary Romeo S. Momo. 

He said the project involves the construction and improvement of road pavement, drainage and slope protection. It also involves improvement and upgrading of road shoulders and construction of four bridges. 

“This is a big plus factor to the economic activity of the two regions once completed,” added Momo. 

Meanwhile, Region XIII Regional Director Dr. Evelyn T. Barroso told Momo that the damaged portion caused by landslide in the Bacuag-Claver road section in Surigao del Norte is already passable by all type of vehicles after the ground engineers of the Surigao del Norte 1st District Engineering Office led by District Engineer Linda Uypala made the round-the-clock supervision to the Pancho Construction’s immediate repair. 

The pockets of landslide in the Surigao-Davao Coastal Road happened during the weeklong torrential rains in the region early this month. 

“Despite of this situation, the 4.81 kilometers access road via Veruela in Agusan del Sur is already completed ahead of schedule,” Barroso added. 

The access road was constructed to pave way the commencement of the ground works of the P263.33-million Ihawan Bridge in Veruela town. 

Ihawan Bridge project is part of the Urgent Bridges Construction Project for Rural Development Contract Package lV of the DPWH Caraga, Barroso further said. (muc/PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Thursday, Jan. 25, 2010-A

TUCP strengthens services on RH, Family Planning in workplace

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Manila (25 January) – The Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) vowed to continue its services on Reproductive Health (RH) and Family Planning to all its union members and non-union members at the workplace .

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TUCP Education and Youth Director Rafael Mapalo in an interview with PIA said that more workers, may they be union members or not, will get improved health and welfare on reproductive health and family planning as they continue on advocating and providing RH services to the community.

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In its 10^th year of implementation, Mapalo bared the establishment of union-run and managed family welfare clinics staffed by trained nurses and midwives in 5 different areas in the country where “our presence is strongly felt” namely Cavite, Laguna, Davao, Cebu and Bacolod City.

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With funding support from the David and Lucille Foundation, TUCP’s initiative at the workplace resulted in the inclusion of some specific provisions that defines the commitment of employers in dealing with the needs of the workers with regards to RH and family planning concerns.

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“We were able to capacitate the Trade Unions to negotiate with management so that management can get funds to support RH services like maternal and child health nutrition, counseling for HIV AIDS and training of trade union members and the like,” said Mapalo.

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TUCP as a labor organization promised to continue on advocating and providing services to all its members for they believe that good health is a human right. (Fryan E. Abkilan, PIA-Surigao del Norte)

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P1-B road construction project set for release in twin Agusan provinces

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BUTUAN CITY, Jan. 25 - The government is set to release the P1-billion fund for the fast-tracking of ground works of the Butuan City and Agusan del Sur road project, a public works and highways official said Tuesday.

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This fund is part of the P1.73-billion Philippine-Japan Highway Loan-Project Management Office (PJHL-PMO) of Butuan City-Las Nieves-Esperanza-Bayugan City Road project under the Philippine-Japan Highway Loan-Project Management Office.

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This road project will serve as a link between Butuan City, Agusan del Norte and Agusan del Sur in Northeastern Mindanao (Region Xlll) and ultimately connect to the agricultural-rich province of Bukidnon in Northern Mindanao (Region 10).

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This multi-year 2009-2010 project is one of the mega-billion projects of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) promised in Northeastern Mindanao.

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Last year, the government initially released P500 million for the immediate start of the ground works of the 61-kilometer Rural Road Network Development Project-III (RRNDP) of Butuan City-Las Nieves-Esperanza-Bayugan City road project.

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This mega-billion project was started on March last year and is expected to be completed on June 2011, said Public Works and Highways Undersecretary Romeo S. Momo.

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He said the project involves the construction and improvement of road pavement, drainage and slope protection. It also involves improvement and upgrading of road shoulders and construction of four bridges.

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“This is a big plus factor to the economic activity of the two regions once completed,” added Momo.

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Meanwhile, Region XIII Regional Director Dr. Evelyn T. Barroso told Momo that the damaged portion caused by landslide in the Bacuag-Claver road section in Surigao del Norte is already passable by all type of vehicles after the ground engineers of the Surigao del Norte 1st District Engineering Office led by District Engineer Linda Uypala made the round-the-clock supervision to the Pancho Construction’s immediate repair.

.

The pockets of landslide in the Surigao-Davao Coastal Road happened during the weeklong torrential rains in the region early this month.

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“Despite of this situation, the 4.81 kilometers access road via Veruela in Agusan del Sur is already completed ahead of schedule,” Barroso added.

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The access road was constructed to pave way the commencement of the ground works of the P263.33-million Ihawan Bridge in Veruela town.

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Ihawan Bridge project is part of the Urgent Bridges Construction Project for Rural Development Contract Package lV of the DPWH Caraga, Barroso further said. (muc/PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Monday, Jan. 25, 2010

5th Minda Coop Summit
RCDC-Caraga readies promo materials 

BUTUAN CITY (25 January) - The Promotions and Publicity Committee of the Regional Cooperative Development Council (RCDC)-Caraga chaired by PIA-Caraga, convened Monday (Jan. 25) for a meeting to finalize promotional materials for 5th Mindanao Cooperative Summit come March 5, 2010, to be held at Almont Inland Resort, this city.

Mr. Francis Loque, ANTRECCO Manager/RCDC Chairperson & Host Execom Chariperson of the summit presented to committee members, drafted designs for the posters and tarpaulins for corrections before finally printing the materials that will also be distributed to local tri-media for its airing/plugging.  

This year’s 5th Mindanao Coop Summit is tagged with the theme: “Mindanao Coops in the Face of Present Day Challenges: Outsmarting Impacts of Global Financial Crisis”, where RCDC Caraga will host the summit for the first time.

The summit aims to provide an avenue for cooperative stakeholders in different regions in Mindanao to enrich their understanding on the current trends of outsmarting impacts of global financial crisis and create a synergistic response to its challenges.

Also, the summit will bring together cooperative leaders from different regions as well as guests from all over the country. It will be a rare learning opportunity as seasoned speakers will talk and share best practices and success experiences as examples to develop and strengthen cooperatives in Mindanao, it was gathered.

All committees for the 5th Mindanao Cooperative Summit will meet again on February 15, 2010 to assess its preparations and materials for the big event. (Jennifer P. Gaitano, PIA-Caraga)  


112 farmers receive stewardship certificates in Agusan del Norte 

BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte - At least 112 farmers received the government’s stewardship certificates in three towns of Agusan del Norte province. 

Under the first co-management sub-agreement awarding ceremony, the jubilant farmer beneficiaries, along with their respective immediate families, received such certificates at JP Satorre Gym in Buenavista town. 

The beneficiaries came from the municipalities of Las Nieves, Buenavista and Carmen (LASBUENASCAR)-Sustainable Agro-Forestry Development Project (LSAFDP). 

The realization of the awarding of stewardship certificates to farmers came out after the DENR and the provincial government of Agusan del Norte represented by Gov. Erlpe John Amante recently inked a memorandum of agreement (MOA) to help the farmers in the province, particularly those in far-flung areas. 

In that awarding ceremony, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer (PENRO) Rosendo A. Asunto expressed heartfelt gratitude to the farmers for their continuing support to the government’s environment preservation and forest protection program. 

For his part, LSAFDP manager Alex Garay commended the technical working group of the concerned government agencies for their fulfillment of the farmers’ dream to have their own “management agreement awards”. 

Also present during the awarding on Wednesday were Department of Agriculture (DA) Regional Director Constancio Maghanoy, Buenavista Mayor Francisco Y. Chan, Jr., Vice Mayor Ramon Bungabong, Agusan del Norte Provincial Administrator Percianita Racho, barangay officials and tribal leaders. 

Last year, the Butuan City-Agusan del Norte DENR-Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) under CENR officer Jaime Acebu also awarded 700 land titles to landless people under the government’s poverty alleviation program “Handog Titulo”. (muc/PIA-Caraga)

 
3,000 cops mobilized as PRO 13 takes a close watch on 42 towns in Caraga region 

CAMP RAFAEL C. RODRIGUEZ, Butuan City - At least 3,000 maneuvering and territorial police forces were mobilized as the Police Regional Office 13 (PRO 13) closely watches over 42 towns under Category 1 and Category 2 in Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga region), police official said Sunday. 
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These areas have also been involved in some election-related incidents in the 2004 and 2007 elections. 

Category 1 means the area has an intense political rivalry while Category 2 means the area has the presence of the terror groups like communist-New People’s Army and crime group, said PRO 13 chief of operation and plans division Senior Supt. Nestor M. Fajura. 

“We are still evaluating and validating some areas,” he said.

Based on the directive of Chief Supt. Lino D. Calingasan, regional director of PRO 13, Senior Supt. Fajura said at least 3,000 maneuver and territorial forces were already mobilized to ensure the May 2010 national and local polls peaceful and orderly. 

He said additional new patrol cars are also set to be deployed on Monday in various police stations in the region. Last week, PNP chief Director General Jesus Verzosa also personally released here 15 patrol cars to strengthen the forces in the Caraga region. 

The deployment of more cars is part of the P10 billion five-year modernization program of the PNP nationwide, he said. 

In the campaign against loose firearms since December last year, at least 166 weapons were already confiscated, recovered and surrendered while four persons were arrested for violation of the election gun ban regionwide, added Fajura. (muc/PIA-Caraga)


Public warned on landslides, floods due to continuous rains in 2 regions in Mindanao 

BUTUAN CITY, Jan. 25 - The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) on Monday called on the public to be vigilant as possible occurrence of landslides and flash floods due to continuous torrential rains in several areas in Northeastern and Southern Mindanao regions. 

The DENR and OCD also urged the public, particularly those living in landslide and flood prone areas to be “alert” at all times and if possible immediately evacuate to avert any casualty. 

For almost two weeks now, some municipalities in the Caraga region, particularly in the four towns of Agusan del Sur suffered severe flooding affecting 52,746 individuals and caused damage to infrastructure and agricultural crops to millions of pesos. Several houses were also reported damaged and three deaths were reported to date. 
Northeastern Mindanao OCD Regional Director Blanche T. Gobenciong said that at least 291 barangays in the Caraga region are identified as flood prone areas while 183 barangays are potential of landslide. 

Director Gobenciong reiterated on Monday her warnings to various disaster councils in the flood and landslide prone areas to be on “alert.” 

Also due to the continuous rain in Southern Mindanao (Region-XI) also, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Regional Executive Director (RED) Jim O. Sampulna on Monday also called on all the local government units (LGUs) and the general public in the region to be vigilant as possible landslides or even flashfloods may hit their respective areas. 

RED Sampulna said that since 2007 the Mines and Geo-Sciences Bureau (MGB) of the DENR had already recommended to LGUs that appropriate warning signages be installed in landslide areas, especially in areas close to settlements and in affected major roads to keep the general public on guard in the event that landslide will occur or recur. 

“Those who are in the different mining areas in the Region should also be observant and vigilant this time because continuous rain will loosen the soil and may result to unexpected landslide which can damage lives and properties”, said RED Sampulna. 

The warning of the DENR official came out after a recent geo-hazard mapping conducted by a team of experts from the MGB-XI found out that there are a total of 94 barangays in Compostela Valley (ComVal) Province and Davao Oriental which were found to be either highly susceptible or moderately susceptible to landslide. 

The region’s DENR official said that based on MGB report, out of the total 183 barangays in Davao Oriental, 67 barangays are classified to be moderately to highly susceptible to landslides. 

There are 43 barangays classified as landslide prone areas, 21 of which are identified to be highly susceptible to landslide while 24 barangays are identified to be moderately susceptible in ComVal province, he said. 

In Davao del Sur, there are 31 barangays classified as landslide prone areas, nine of which are identified to be highly susceptible to landslide while 22 are identified to be moderately susceptible to landslide. 

Recent study also disclosed that some parts of Marilog District and Matina Shrine Hills, Davao City are either moderately or highly susceptible to landslides, added RED Sampulna. 

DENR-MGB-XI had also conducted series of geohazard technical conference with the local executives in the region and they were also informed of these said findings. 

The Regional Disaster Coordinating Council (RDCC-XI) was also already informed about the results of the same study, further added RED Sampulna. (muc/PIA-Caraga)

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PNP-Caraga awards 2nd batch of patrol vehicles to prov’l. offices
By Mike A. Imbo

BUTUAN CITY (25 January) - Police Regional Office in this region awarded 2nd batch composed of 16 patrol vehicles to its provincial offices during the flag-raising ceremony, held today, Monday, January 25.

Graced by Police Deputy Director General Geary Barias who turned-over the vehicles, the activity is in line with the PNP’s integrated transformation program.

In his welcome message, PCSUPT Nelson P Nario, Deputy Regional Director for Administration emphasized the importance of effectiveness response in police service working facilities development and upgrade transformation program in support to the field operations and mobilizations.

Also, PDDG Barias urged the police officers that “the patrol cars are strictly for use during operations and officials’ mandate”.

He also emphasized that police officers should implore vision to be highly capable, effective and credible public servant-protectors.

Meanwhile, PSINP Marlou Labares, PNP chaplain, initiated the blessing ceremony assisted by PDDG Barias, PCSUPT Calingasan, witnessed by various municipal mayors Caraga region.

Provincial Directors and Chiefs of Police of the different towns receive the key of Patrol Toyota Hi-lux from PDDG Barias.

It can be recalled that on January 14, 15 patrol cars which forms the program’s first batch of vehicles were turned-over by PNP Chief, Gen Jesus Verzosa. The deployment of patrol vehicles is part of the P10 billion five-year modernization program of the PNP nationwide, it was learned.
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Candidates giving fees to communists under close watch of PRO 13

CAMP RAFAEL C. RODRIGUEZ, Butuan City, January 25 - The regional command of Police Regional Office 13 (PRO 13) is closely monitoring five local candidates who allegedly paid Permit-to-Campaign (PTC) and Permit-to-Win (PTW) fees to the communist New People’s Army (NPA), a police official disclosed Monday. 

Declassified police intelligence report showed NPA extortion demands rage from P10,000 to P100,000 depending on the position the candidate is running for. 

“We are closely monitoring, evaluating and validating these so called PTC and PTW fees demanded by the NPAs,” said PRO 13 chief of operation and plans division Senior Supt. Nestor M. Fajura. 

He also said that the initial reported five local candidates are already being closely watched and monitored. 

The police official declined to name names as investigation is still going on. 

Fajura said field commanders were already directed to closely watch these candidates. 

He said the regional command of PRO 13 has mobilized 3,000 maneuvering and territorial forces to maintain peace and order and to protect the sanctity of the May 2010 polls. 

To date, 72 out of 100 applicants for security detail were already approved by the Caraga region’s Comelec-PNP-AFP Joint Security Control Center (JSCC) here. 

Meanwhile, a field Army commander said the NPA is out to demand extortion money from election candidates to cover the gaping holes of its financial problems. 

“We see extortion as a desperate coping method of the NPA to survive, because of their logistical and financial problem" said regional Army spokesman Maj. Mitchele B. Anayron, Jr. 

“Extortion is what’s keeping them alive, not their ideology,” he said. 

PTC fee is demanded as a guarantee for candidates to carry out “hassle-free” campaigns inside areas claimed by the NPA, while PTW fee is in exchange for definite votes delivered for the candidate payee. 

At least 35 candidates from Northern Mindanao (Region 10) had filed their applications requesting for security details with the Regional Joint Security Control Center (RJSCC). 

The RJSCC secretariat said 25 of these candidates are incumbents while 10 are new ones who requested for the security detail of some 59 members of the PNP, four from the AFP and five from private protective agencies. (muc/PIA-Caraga)