(PAGASA 24-HOUR PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST as of Tuesday, 27 May 2025) Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) affecting Mindanao. Easterlies affecting the rest of the country. 𝗙𝗒π—₯π—˜π—–π—”π—¦π—§ π—ͺπ—˜π—”π—§π—›π—˜π—₯ π—–π—’π—‘π——π—œπ—§π—œπ—’π—‘: Butuan City, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Norte and Surigao del Sur will experience cloudy skies with scattered rains and thunderstorms due to ITCZ. Possible flash floods or landslides due to moderate to at times heavy rains. 𝗙𝗒π—₯π—˜π—–π—”π—¦π—§ π—ͺπ—œπ—‘π—— 𝗔𝗑𝗗 π—–π—’π—”π—¦π—§π—”π—Ÿ π—ͺπ—”π—§π—˜π—₯ π—–π—’π—‘π——π—œπ—§π—œπ—’π—‘: Light to moderate winds coming from East to Northeast will prevail with slight to slight to moderate seas (0.6 to 1.5 meters).


PIA News Service - Tuesday, Sept. 7, 2010

POEA expands services to Caraganons

In its effort to expand services to Caraganons, the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) Caraga Satellite Office is set to transfer to its new location at the ground floor of the newly-constructed Nimfa Tiu Bldg. 7, infront of DBM Regional Office Building and beside OWWA-Caraga Regional Office at J. Rosales Ave., Butuan City tomorrow, September 8, 2010

Along this line, a blessing and inauguration of the building will take place at 3:00 p.m. 

It can be recalled that POEA shares the office of OWWA-Caraga for quite some time. 

The existence of POEA Caraga Satellite Office was made possible through the efforts of Cong. Jose S. Aquino II of the 1st Congressional District of Butuan city and the Municipality of Las Nieves in Agusan del Norte.

Any transactions involving POEA may be made by calling their office at (085) 342-7584. (PIA-Caraga)


NYC extends deadline of submission for applicants of TAYO Year 8

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY - The National Youth Commission (NYC) extends deadline of submission for applicants of the 8th Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations (TAYO) until September 15, 2010 in regions 10, 11 and 13/Caraga. 

In a communication sent to PIA, it was learned that the search is open to all groups, organizations, clubs and societies whose membership and leadership are composed of at least 15 members who are 15 to 30 years old. 

To qualify, the project must be recently-concluded or an ongoing program. A project proposal does not qualify as an entry. For a continuing project entry or one that started in 2008, it must either be completed, or a major portion must have been undertaken by the deadline.

Also, organizations shall be judged on the basis of the submitted project entry. TAYO focuses on projects that meet the following criteria: Impact of the project entry on stakeholders; Harnessing the spirit of volunteerism and citizenship (involvement of the community, especially the youth in planning, implementing and evaluating the program or project); Creativity and innovation (introduction/application of new technologies, uniqueness of services or products, promotion of unique or indigenous ways or materials); Sustainability; Effective use of resources (financial resourcefulness, networking with similar organizations, identifying local supporters).

NYC also bared that an organization can submit only one (1) entry. Recipients of other awards are eligible while winners of last year’s TAYO (Year 7) are not eligible to join. Other previous TAYO winners and finalists may still participate, provided that they submit a project entry different from the one submitted before. 

Applicants must use only white, short (8.5 x 11 in.) bond paper for the attachment containing the organization and program/project profiles. Use only staple wires to put together documents; do not bind project entries for submission. Do not attach other documents that are not required for submission. When necessary, the TAYO Secretariat will request for additional data. Lack or non-compliance of search requirements will result in automatic disqualification. The organizers reserve the right to modify, alter or amend the above-stated rules or waive compliance therewith at their sole discretion if such steps are in accordance with the purpose of the search and awards scheme. 

It was also learned that all decisions of the TAYO Screening Committee and Panel of Judges are final. No correspondence pertaining to these decisions shall be entertained. All materials submitted to the TAYO Secretariat automatically become property of the organizers.

Meanwhile, the organization shall submit two (2) copies of the following: Accomplished Entry Form; List of officers, leaders and founders (if any). (Please indicate name, position, contact number/s (landline and/or cellphone) and email addresses); One-page certification attesting to the existence and veracity of the information submitted (for In-School Youth Organizations, a certification from the Office of Student Affairs) and (for Community-based, Out-of-School or Working Youth Organizations, a certification from the barangay); Submit an application briefer using the prescribed format that can be downloaded from the TAYO Website: www.tayoawards.net; Three-page project documentation (can be any of the following: photos, testimonies of partners or beneficiaries, certificates, etc.) .

Other Requirement: One CD containing a soft copy of the application briefer. (you may also include significant/photos/videos/other documents not included in the project documentation in that same CD).

Apart from the award, the winning organizations will receive a P50,000 grant for funding of new projects or to continue long-term programs, and a special trophy sculpted by Toym De Leon Imao.

TAYO 8 is presented by Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines, and is organized by the TAYO Awards Foundation, the Office of Senator Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan and the National Youth Commission.

This award is hailed as the country’s leading search for outstanding groups of young Filipinos that are instrumental in the development of the country through simple, worthwhile and notable projects implemented in their communities.

For inquiries, you may call the TAYO SECRETARIAT at (02) 687-5917, (02) 781-1406 or 0917-898.8296 or email at tayo.secretariat@gmail.com. (PIA-Caraga)


Cebuano News: 1,125 ka mga bakwit sa Suriago del Sur giatiman sa tropa sa gobyerno

By Michael Imbo

BUTUAN CITY - Apektado ang dul-an 236 ka pamilya ug kapin 1,125 ka mga katawhan nga namakwit gumikan sa nahimong kagubot didto sa Probinsya sa Surigao del Sur. Kini ang gikumpirma sa 4th Infantry Division, dili pa lang dugay.

Sumala ni Spokesperson Lt Col Triumph Dominic Bagaipo, ang mga residenteng namakwit didto sa Barangay Mahaba ang mibutyag nga dili gumikan sa giyera ang ilang pagbakwit, hinoon ang dakong motibo mao ang pagpanghasi sa mga rebeldeng grupo.

Dugang sa opisyal nga ang tropa sa 4th Infantry Division sayong mibiya sa Barangay Mahaba niadto pang bulan sa Agosto sigun sa gimando sa barangay council sa maong lugar.

Si Bagaipo nagkanayon nga ang 236 ka pamilya base sa record gikan sa National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) ang mipamatuod nga namakwit ang katawhan tungod sa pagpanghasi sa New Peoples Army (NPA).

Matud niini nga walay tropa sa kasundalohan ang nagpabilin sa maong lugar. Gani, gitug-an nga ang mga tropang mipahigayon sa operasyon sa peace and order development ang gi pull-out usab.

Sanglit gisaysay nga walay kamatuoran nga ang pagbakwit sa mga residente sa maong barangay hinungdan sa sangka sa tropa sa gobyerno batok sa rebeldeng grupo.

Nahibaloan nga ang mga namakwit nga katawhan ang anaa karon sa gymnasium sa Marihatag ug ang uban tua sa Barangay San Isidro.

Si Lt. Col. Rene CaΓ±ete, Commanding Officer sa 36th Infantry Battalion ang nakig-alayon na sa pakig-koordinasyon ngadto sa Municipal Government sa Marihatag ug sa Barangay San Isidro kaabag ang Philippine Red Cross, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) ug Philippine National Police alang sa pagpakalma sa sitwasyun ug paghatud sa operasyon tabang.

Matud ni CaΓ±ete “Originally, before they were pulled out, the presence of military forces in Barangay Mahaba is legitimate because of our constitutional mandate.” 

Miaabag ang mga nagkadaiyang ahensya sa pagpakabana sa mga biktima nga namakwit aron mahatagan sa seguridad ug mabalik ang ilang mga kabtangan.

Ang Philippine Red Cross usab ang mibubo sa panginahanglan sa mga pagkaon sa mga bakwit didto sa mga evacuation center. (PIA-Caraga)
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Bonok-bonok Maradjaw Karadjaw Festival 2010 set on September 10

By: Susil A. Ragas

Now on its 22nd year, Bonok-bonok Maradjaw Karadjaw Festival will take center stage on Friday, September 10 at the Provincial Sports Complex, Surigao City.

This year’s event will only have six contingents from different Schools, Barangay and Municipalities. Of the six, two are from Surigao City namely: C.V Diez Memorial Elementary School and Surigao del Norte National High School (SNNHS). The other contingents are from Barangay Mat-i; Brgy. Luna Margarita Memorial Elementary School and Brgy. Cagniog Cagasan Memorial Elementary School and Municipality of Del Carmen representing its Bakhaw Festival.

The competition is part of the “Bonok-bonok Maradjaw Karadjaw Festival” sponsored by the local City Government, Surigao del Norte Provincial Government and the Surigao City Tourism Council, Inc. (PIA-Surigao del Norte)

PIA News Service - Monday, Sept. 6, 2010

A4P re-orients 9 PDCs on monitoring, evaluation report 

By Nida Grace B. Tranquilan

LIANGA, SURIGAO DEL SUR - “The project is about to end on December 2010,” thus said Mr. Oliver Binancilan of Act for Peace (A4P) during the A4P Project Re-Orientation on final Monitoring & Evaluation report to nine (9) Peace and Development Centers (PDCs) on September 2-3, 2010 held at KANSILAD Beach Resort, Cagwait, Surigao del Sur.
 
The activity aims to check how far was the implementation of each approved projects of A4P, a foreign funded from New Zealand in partnership with the Provincial Government of Surigao del Sur, LGU, BLGU and NGO.

Mr. Binancilan also explained during the Workshop, how to make a final financial and physical evaluation report of each project implemented on the selected areas suited to the basic needs thru recommendation by the people in the chosen areas as beneficiaries.
Mr. Binancilan also revealed that some of the on-going projects as of this time, around a month were remained to their proposed target of accomplishment. To those unaccomplished that lapsed to the target time allotted, were recommended to send a letter of extension request to A4P a soonest time. 

On the other hand, the Provincial Technical Working Group (PTWG) composed of representatives from Stakeholders was task to oversee and assists PDCs for the project implementation. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)


Lianga is a peaceful place, local official clarified

By Nida Grace B. Tranquilan

LIANGA, SURIGAO DEL SUR - Vice Mayor Roberto Lala, Jr. clarified that this municipality is peaceful, opposite to what some media aired and published with regards to the peace and order situation. 

“Reports of other media pictured the whole municipality with unstable peace and order including some neighboring towns and the whole province as well, which really an opposite from the real situation,” the local official said in an interview with PIA at Kansilad Beach Resort, one of the tourist destinations located in the said municipality.

As one of the tourist destinations in Surigao del Sur, the resort caters local and foreign tourists but due to negative issues reported by media, some tourists opted to visit and cancel their reservations, it was learned.

On the other hand, Hon. Lala explained that the incident happened recently was beyond Lianga’s Area of Responsibility and it was due to the seized logs controversy of SAMILLA resulted to the death of the Lianga Chief of Police officer. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)


Red Cross Surigao del Sur says evacuees are safe to go back in their area 

By Nida Grace B. Tranquilan

TANDAG, SURIGAO DEL SUR – Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Chapter Administrator Abel de Guzman revealed that the 236 families (or 1,127 individuals) who are temporarily housed in Marihatag Gym, are now safe to go back to their area after the assessment of the task force (evaluator’s team) who visited the area on September 2 was made.

It can be recalled that the encountered between the CPP/NPA and the government troops happened in the far flung Sitios, part of Brgy. Mahaba, Marihatag that urged the residents to leave the community for their safety on August 28. 

It was learned that the encounter happened at about 13-15 kilometers away from the municipality of Marihatag Poblacion, near the Sitios of Buringon and Palompon, part of Brgy. Mahaba.

On September 03, the Philippine Army received a report that there was a certain unidentified organization that agitated the evacuees urging them to traverse going to Tandag. With the help of the concerned citizens, the plan was intercepted by the military in coordination with the PNP and the local government.

“The failure plan of the organizers was part of the tactics of the CPP-NPA to destruct the strategic plan of the government side aiming to convert the attention to the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs),” said Major Judith Loayon, CMO Officer of the 401st brigade.

The local government officials of Marihatag and Provincial Governor Johnny Pimentel had already made some actions to resolve the insurgency problem in the area with the Philippine Army and the PNP. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)


Gov’t troops care for safety, welfare of 1,125 IDPs of Marihatag

The 4th Infantry Division confirmed recently that they are concerned on the welfare of the displaced 236 families or around 1,125 people in the said area.

4th Infantry Division spokesperson Lt. Col. Triumph Dominic Bagaipo however disclosed that evacuations in barangay Mahaba did occur but denied this was caused by fighting between soldiers and rebels.

Bagaipo said 236 families - per National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) record left barangay Mahaba earlier this week because it was the NPA rebels who were harassing them.

Further, he said that 4th Infantry Division troopers have left barangay Mahaba last week of August upon request of the barangay council there.

Not one trooper is left, Bagaipo reiterated. Even non-combatants who earlier conducted peace and development operations had already pulled out. Thus, there is no truth to the report that the displacement of the residents in barangay Mahaba were caused by the armed fighting between the government and the rebels.

Meanwhile, the displaced residents are currently housed by the government at Marihatag gym and in nearby places in Barangay San Isidro.

It was learned that Lt. Col. Rene CaΓ±ete, Commanding Officer of 36th Infantry Battalion, has already coordinated with the municipal government of Marihatag and Barangay San Isidro along with the Philippine Red Cross, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and Philippine National Police (PNP) 13 to help mitigate the evacuation.

“Originally, before they were pulled out, the presence of military forces in Barangay Mahaba is legitimate because of our constitutional mandate,” CaΓ±ete further stressed.

The agencies have bonded together to help the evacuees get their belongings from their homes.

The Philippine Red Cross meanwhile has supplied one week’s worth of food consumption to both evacuation centers.
(4th CMO Bn, 4ID, PA/PIA-Caraga)
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POLICE REPORTS
By PO2 Darlin Cabalinan-Migullas

PNP arrests wanted person

Elements of Talacogon Municipal Police Station (MPS) led by Police Inspector Ephraim Detuya, OIC arrested a certain Salvador Plaza, of legal age, farmer and a resident of Sitio Tumaliktik, Brgy. San Agustin, Talacogon, Agusan del Sur at around 3:30 in the afternoon of September 3, 2010 at the above mentioned place. Said person was arrested by virtue of Warrant of Arrest issued by Hon. Hector Salisi, Judge of RTC Branch 7, Bayugan City charged for the crime of Murder docketed under criminal case number 3074. 

Arrested person now temporarily detained at Talacogon MPS for proper disposition. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Marihatag MPS arrests illegal fishing suspects

Elements of Marihatag Municipal Police Station (MPS) led by PO2 Benjie Benecario together with personnel of Municipal Agriculture Office led by Bernardino Aguilar conducted operation against illegal fishing, which led to the apprehension of the suspects identified as: Norberto Trimidal Sr., 44 years old, married; Norberto Trimidal, 17 years old, single, both residents of Purok-1, Brgy. Diatagon, Lianga, Surigao del Sur; Quito Layno, 41 years old, married and a resident of Purok-4, Diatagon, Lianga, Surigao del Sur and Danilo Gumanit, 41 years old, married and a resident of Sitio Pahapod, Brgy. Cabakongan, Barobo, Surigao del Sur. 

Said suspects were being caught in the act engaging in illegal fishing activity locally known as "Buso" at the municipal sea water of Marihatag, Surigao del Sur. Confiscated from their possession were one (1) unit pump boat color sky blue with 10HP Mitsubishi engine with compressor, two (2) hose, three (3) fishing arrows, two (2) pieces flashlights, two (2) pieces goggles, two (2) pieces wooden paddle, two (2) pairs wooden fliffers, three (3) pieces steel wire hook with white plastic floater, one (1) piece yellow plastic container, two (2) pieces white boxes and 9.5 kilos of assorted fish. Apprehended suspects and confiscated items were brought to Marihatag MPS for proper disposition.  
(PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Progress Report:

Progress Report regarding the encounter incident that transpired on August 21, 2010, which resulted to the instantaneous death of Police Inspector CHRISTOPHER POSAS MAZO, OIC of Lianga Municipal Police Station (MPS). A case for Murder was already filed at the Prosecutor's Office under NPS XIII-07c-INV-10Ab-00050, against Front Committee leader of FC-19A and FC-19B identified as Jeorge Madlos alias "Ka Oris", Myrna Sularte alias "Maria Malaya", Felizardo Valdez alias "Ka Ado" Alias "Dodoy", Jomar Jacinto alias "Johnly", Dodong Moncada alias "Titing" and Does.
(PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Report on illegal drugs 

PNP elements of Butuan City Police Station 1 led by PINSP RODOLFO LEDESMA and Butuan City Public Safety Company led by PCI FERDINAND DACILLO under close supervision of PSSUPT BENZON D LELENG conducted operations against illegal drugs at P-6, Brgy Ong Yiu, Butuan City on September 2, 2010 at 11:30 am. The team noticed two (2) persons scampered away while the team approached the area. The team pursued the fleeing persons and eventually caught one Joseph Usman Oliverio and place him under arrest. 

Recovered from suspect one (1) sachet of suspected shabu weighing .0141 grams, eleven (11) pcs sliced aluminum foil, one (1) pc empty match, two (2) pcs disposable lighter, one (1) Fortune cigarette pack with seventeen (17) pcs aluminum foil placed inside and cash money amounting to Php 22.00. Case of violation of section 11 and 12 of RA 9165 was filed at City Prosecutor's Office against the suspect docketed under NPS Nr XIII-01-INQ-101-00180 dated September 3, 2010. 

The operation was witnessed by Brgy Kagawad Nestor Orias and Welbert Ejos; DOJ representative Ronaldo Bedrijo and media personality Ritchel Molero from ABS-CBN Butuan. Subject person now temporarily detained at Butuan City Police Station 1 Detention Cell for proper disposition. 

Also, PNP elements of Butuan City Police Station 1 led by PINSP RODOLFO LEDESMA AND Butuan City Public Safety Company under the close supervision of PSUPT JOSEPH BOQUIREN conducted operations against illegal drugs at P-6, Brgy Ong Yiu, Butuan City on September 5, 2010 at 9:00 am. 

The operation resulted to the apprehension of the two suspects. Recovered from the possession of one Orencio Llorado Jr were seven (7) sachets of suspected shabu, thirty eight (38) pcs sliced aluminum foil, four (4) pcs disposable lighter, one (1) unit cal .38 revolver S&W paltik without serial nr with eleven (11) live ammunitions, two (2) units cellphones and cash money amounting to Php 2,724.00 while recovered from Ruben Abada possession were two (2) sachets of suspected shabu, one (1) unit cal .22 revolver paltik without serial nr with eight (8) live ammunitions and cash money amounting to Pp 520.00. The operation was witnessed by Kagawad Nestor Vales, Wilbert Ejos and Punong Brgy Guillena, DOJ representative Ronaldo Bedrijo and media personalities Larry "Cool" Diez and Ronnel Cinco. Arrested persons and seized items were brought to Butuan City Police Station 1 for proper disposition. 
(PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

On surrendered explosive 

One Virgilio Canasa, 69 years old, married, a resident of Brgy Rizal, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte voluntarily surrendered one (1) unit hand grenade with serial nr MA176J001-09-78 to PCINSP ARTEMIO AJOL SUAREZ of Buenavista Municipal Police Station (MPS) on September 4, 2010 at 8:25 am. Said hand grenade was found with casing at the hinterlands of Sitio 3, Brgy Rizal, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte. Said explosive now under the custody of Buenavista MPS for proper disposition.
(PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)


PIA News Service - Friday, Sept. 3, 2010

PPOC members tapped to enforce laws on peace and order

By Dave M. Suyao

Agusan del Sur Gov. Adolph Edward “Eddie Bong” Plaza believes strong political will, determination and unity will be the strong weapons to address the peace and order problems in the province.

During the recently conducted Provincial Peace and Order full Council (PPOC) meeting, Gov. Plaza said issues that were brought to the attention of the Provincial Peace and Order Council were already discussed repeatedly, but sad to note, the implementation were “half cooked”. Then, finger pointing follows.

“Like for example the issue of overloading falcata logs that caused damage to the national highway. If I recall, we have already discussed the issue before when I was the governor, and until now that I am back as your governor, still the same issue prevail. It is therefore time that we unite, not just one agency or the local government to implement the law of over and rainbow loading, but all of us, be national and local government agencies, including the barangay officials”, Gov. Plaza said.

Gov. Plaza asked DPWH representatives how much the weighbridge cost, planning to seek help from the two congresswomen of Agusan del Sur to help install a weigh bridge in the province in order to exactly determine the weight of the load of every hauler truck that passes thru the national highway to address the overloading problem.

The PPOC also passed a resolution condemning the local communist terrorists for the killing of five government soldiers and wounding another one in Barangay Lo Fortuna, Veruela town last week. According to Lt. Col. Neil Richard Patricio, the area surrounding Barangay La Fortuna are known to be rebel infested and are dependent of their consumption out of the “revolutionary tax” they are collecting from the local residents.

“The main reason why these local communist terrorists harass the army is because their atrocities are contained with the presence of our forces. We are there to secure the area and maintain peace and order in order that economic activities will flourish. I am therefore asking the assistance of the local government units that we train some 50 able men from the area to become members of the CAFGU so that these rebels will know that we mean peace and development”, Col. Patricio said. 

With the suggestion of Col. Patriciao, Vice Gov. Santiago Cane, thru the suggestion of SP member Gilbert Elorde, asked Col. Patricio to prepare a written proposal for the governor to approve so that the training of the 50 CAFGU can be done immediately.
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On criminality, P/Supt. Antonio Paguirigan informed the body that the two suspects that destroyed and stole the lines of the two telephone companies are already languishing in Prosperidad jail, waiting for the final judgement of the court of their crimes committed.

“What these people have done is an act of economic sabotage and therefore, a heinous crime. They are now in the hands of the law, waiting for final judgement. And so far, as criminality is concerned, criminality in the rpovince was reduced compared to the same period last year, while crime solution increased. I therefore say, that Agusan del Sur in totality is peaceful. (PIA-Agusan del Sur)


Caraga Region prepares 2010-2016 regional development plan

BUTUAN CITY - In an effort to help the current administration in its development program in the countryside, particularly Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga region), the Regional Development Council (RDC) will be preparing its successor Regional Development Plan (RDP) for the period 2010-2016. 

The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) said the 2010-2016 regional development plan came out after the RDC approved during its 63rd Full Council Meeting held recently here, the guidelines for the formulation of a successor plan, also known as the Medium-Term Regional Development Plan (MTRDP). 

Since the previous RDP will expire this year, the successor plan will set the development direction of the region in the next six years, starting 2011 under the administration of President Benigno C. Aquino III. 

In a press statement released on Thursday, the NEDA said the guidelines underscore the guiding principles to be adopted in the successor plan namely inclusive growth and poverty reduction, application of participatory and human rights based approaches, integration of disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation concepts and strategies, gender equality and development, vertical and horizontal plan integration and support to the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDG). 

Consequently, a series of regional and local consultations will be conducted by the NEDA Caraga in the formulation of the successor plan. 

Said regional development plan is targeted to be completed, legitimized and adopted by the Council in October, this year, said NEDA. 

In a related development, Agusan del Norte Gov. Erlpe John M. Amante and Surigao del Sur Governor Johnny T. Pimentel were both nominated as chairperson of the Regional Development Council (RDC) - 13 during its meeting held recently here. 

To be appointed by President Aquino, the RDC 13 chair and co-chair shall serve for a fixed term of three years as provided under Executive Order 325 of 1996. This term shall coincide with the regular term of the elective officials without prejudice to reappointment. 

Also nominated as RDC 13 co-chairperson were Engr. Leonel A. Santos and Mr. Marlon C. Advincula, who are both private sector representatives to the newly reorganized Council. The same EO sets out the condition that if the chair comes from the government sector, the co-chair shall be chosen from the private sector and vice-versa. 

NEDA-13 Regional Director Carmencita S. Cochingco, who presided over the reorganizational meeting, has been the officer-in-charge of the Council for almost three years since former President Arroyo did not appoint RDC chair and co-chair for Caraga Region. 

The RDC was created by the Constitution to strengthen the autonomy of the local government units and accelerate the socio-economic development of the regions. 

In that same RDC meeting, 10 private sector representatives (PSR’s) in the RDC-13 were confirmed. (muc/PIA-Caraga)


RDC endorses P57.7-M expansion of Sta. Josefa irrigation project in Agusan Sur

STA. JOSEFA, Agusan del Sur – A big number of farmers in this landlocked far-flung municipality of Agusan del Sur province have a reason to rejoice as the region’s powerful Regional Development Council (RDC) has endorsed the P57.7-million expansion of Sta. Josefa Pump Irrigation Project here. 

Because of this new development, more farmers in almost all barangays in this town will soon improve their yield. 

The expansion of service area of the projects was unanimously endorsed by the RDC during its meeting held recently in Butuan City for funding by the National Irrigation Administration (NIA), it was also learned. 

The additional cost will expand the service area from 2,000 hectares to 2,787 hectares, an NIA official here said. 

Presently, only the barangays of Angas, Awao, Sayon, Concepcion, San Jose and Patrocinio in Sta. Josefa, Agusan del Sur are covered by adequate irrigation water supply. 

NIA official Engr. Greg Y. Pang said that an additional service area of about 787 hectares will be irrigated in Barangays San Jose and Binongahan in Sta. Josefa, Agusan del Sur. 

The pump irrigation project’s main canal has a capacity of 3.76 cubic meters per second with a length of about 12.12 kilometers, making it possible to convey more irrigation water, added Engr. Pang. 

NEDA-13 Regional Director Carmencita S. Cochingco, who presided over the meeting in her capacity as officer-in-charge and ex officio Vice-Chair of RDC 13, commented that the project will enable the Caraga Region to attain its rice production and food sufficiency targets. 

Agusan del Sur is being considered as the “food basket” in Northern Mindanao. 

Meanwhile, Agusan del Sur Governor Adolph Edward Plaza was elated by the RDC’s endorsement, saying, “It is a big boost to our rice production in our province”. 

He said the provincial government is currently looking for additional farming equipment for the farmers. (muc/PIA-Caraga)


Medical and Dental Mission held in Basag ARC

Hundreds of residents including Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries in Basag Agrarian Reform Community (ARC) of Department of Agrarian Reform are the recipient of the Free Medical and Dental Mission held at BASAG ARC, Brgy. Basag, Butuan City last August 19, 2010. 

Key DAR officials participated in the said undertakings led by Faisar A. Mambuay with PARO II Andre B. Atega, CEO VI, CARPO Rodrigo B. Bitangcor, Admin and Finance Officer Diomedes Maisog, DARCOVE Agusan del Norte Chapter President Raymundo Bongato and MARO Mauriel T. Fesalboni with DF Chona A. Maceda.
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This humanitarian mission, which brings the government closer to the people, is a collaborative effort of the Department of Agrarian Reform - CARAGA Oppose Violence Everywhere (DAR-COVE) Agusan del Norte Chapter in coordination with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Department of Health (DOH) some government agencies and private institutions, City Government, Basag Local Government Unit, Barangay Health Workers and nursing students. 
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PARO II Andre B. Atega, CEO VI, lauded the benevolent effort of the DAR-COVE Agusan del Norte Chapter and some stakeholders for extending this community outreach program that helps enhance the welfare and health of local residents specifically to the Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries in Basag ARC.
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The barangay residents expressed their profound gratitude to the Department of Agrarian Reform, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and other stakeholders for the free medical and dental mission.
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Aside from medical, dental services and operation tuli, the beneficiaries also received free medicines and vitamins. (Gil E. Miranda, DAR-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Caraga)


104 Infra Projects Implemented by Military in 5 Mindanao Provinces
 
The 52nd Engineer Brigade under BGen Romulo M Cabantac Jr AFP has completed a total of 104 Kalayaan Barangay Program (KBP) projects from 2008 to 2009 in the area of responsibility of the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division, Philippine Army.

KBP is being implemented in the hinterland barangays in the provinces of Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur and Bukidnon.

The KBP is under the National Development Support Project (NDSP) and it aims to assist the National Government in its peace and development initiatives to establish a physically and psychologically secured environment conducive to socio-economic growth especially in the remotest barangays.

For these five provinces, the KBP projects are divided into school buildings, farm to market roads, water systems, electrifications, daycare centers and health centers bringing the total cost of poured in projects to P205 million.

There were 42 farm to market roads constructed, 18 school buildings erected, 17 water systems put up, 16 health centers institutionalized, six daycare centers established and five barangays energized.

Aside from the infrastructure projects, the residents are also benefitting from it because the Army Corps of Engineers implementing it are required to hire civilian labor from within the barangay. 

Agusan del Sur has the most number of KBP projects at 49 followed by Surigao del Norte with 34. There are 18 KBP projects successfully implemented in Agusan del Norte, four in Surigao del Sur and one in Bukidnon.

For the year 2010, 42 KBP projects are yet to be implemented in the AOR of 4th Infantry Division.

“These KBP Projects have greatly helped in alleviating poverty and illiteracy, the two primary factors why insurgency exists. These projects are only a small part of the Army’s commitment to achieve lasting peace and sustainable development for all of us Filipinos,” said MGen Victor A Felix AFP, Commander of the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division based in Camp Evangelista, PATAG, Cagayan de Oro City. (LTC TRIUMPH DOMINIC G BAGAIPO, 4th CMO Bn, 4ID, PA/PIA-Caraga)


PIA News Service - Thursday, Sept. 2, 2010

Cebuano News: Tree planting sa Mt. Mayapay, nagmalampuson

Ni Michael Imbo

BUTUAN CITY - Nagmalampuson ang tree planting activity nga gipangunahan sa National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) ang pipila ka mga institusyon ug ahensya sa kagamhanan nga nagtanom sa kahoy niadtong miaging Biernes (August 27, 2010) didto sa bukid sa Mt. Mayapay, ni’ng dakbayan.

Si NEDA Caraga Regional Director ang nagsaysay sa iyang sulat pamahayag nga nanawagan ang Mt. Mayapay Rehabilitation Task Force (MMRTF) nga ipahigayon ang boluntaryong pagpananom sa kahoy ug apil na ang kalamboan sa Mt. Mayapay Rehabilitation program.

Si Cochingco ang mitug-an sa mga buhaton atol sa ipahigayong tree planting activity sanglit iyang gitumbok ang kahigayunan sa ka-importansya niini alang sa ekonomiya ug pag-proteksyon sa kinaiyahan.

Gumikan sa panahon nga ting-ulan, giingon sa Task Force nga gikinahanglan gyud nga pangandaman kini pinaagi sa mga gihan-ay nga aktibidades.

Niadtong tuig 2008, gisugdan na ang 9 ka massive tree planting activities nga gisuportahan sa nagkadaiyang ahensya ug institusyon.

Nahibaloan nga ang unang massive tree planting activity gihimo panahon sa launching sa Mt. Mayapay Rehabilitation Project niadtong May 21, 2008 sa Barangay Nongnong, ni’ng syudad.

Lain pang gipahigayon nga 10 ka tree planting activities nga gilusad sa Knights of Columbus (K of C)-Libertad Chapter, Society of Filipino Geodetic Engineers, Radyo Bombo Philippines, ang Alalay at Gabay sa Pag-unlad ng Pamayanan, Agusan National High School, Philrice ug Nehemiah Volunteers.

Sumala ni Cochingco nga gitahasan sa Task force ang 147.56 ka ektarya ug 39.34 porsiento ang project target area nga tamnan sa 74,897 ka luna, dugang niini nga itanom didto ang kahoy nga Mahogany, Acasia Mangium, Kakawate ug African Tulip.
Ang MMRTF naningkamot nga ma-rehabilitate ug ma preserba ang Mt. Mayapay aron mahimo kining modelo sa eco-park development ug mapugngan ang mga illegal logging sa maong lugar. (PIA-Caraga)

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GTZ brings ‘Sports for Peace 2010’ in Butuan

BUTUAN CITY – The Deutsche Gesellschaft fΓΌr Technische Zusammenarbeit (GTZ) or German Technical Cooperation of Germany implements for the 9th time, the Sports for Peace project to promote peace-building efforts in Mindanao and this time, Butuan will take part of the project.

Sports for Peace 2010 will be held on September 4 – 5, 2010 to be participated by young athletes from different ethnic groups and religions. 

They will compete in team sports of football, volleyball and basketball and as team mates and as members of competing contingents, they will learn and compete with discipline, teamwork, sportsmanship and fair play. 

The young athletes will also be engaged in self-discovery journeys on peace concepts and historical perspectives on conflicts in Mindanao.

The “Sports for Peace” initiative has been broadened as an instrument of peace-building with its unique feature because of the mixture of sporting events and games, competitions and lectures on the topics of peace and conflict that brings together children, parents and teachers of differing ethnic groups and religions.

The project began in 2005 as a component of the GTZ Poverty Reduction and Conflict Transformation in Mindanao Project between the governments of the Philippines and Germany.

Children participating in Sports for Peace become aware of and are enabled to understand the cultures of their playmates wherein, during the 2-day gathering, they participate in activities that teach the importance of respect for and acceptance of cultures and faith traditions that are different from their own. 

The accompanying adults and coaches also engage each other in peace awareness exercises that empower them to become peacemakers. 

Sports for Peace have been held in Cotabato City, Zamboanga City, Datu Odin Sinsuat in Maguindanao, Davao City, Iligan City and now in Butuan City. 

On September 4, a news conference will be held at the Morelos Campus of Father Urios University with expected guests; Secretary Teresita Q. Deles, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, and Ambassador Christian-Ludwig Weber-Lortsch of Germany and Butuan City Mayor Ferdinand Amante, Jr.

Organizers likewise invited the presence of young campus writers and journalists together with Julie Kristine de Guzman, the 16 year-old winner of the recently-concluded “Dear P-Noy” Letter-Writing Contest organized by the Voice of Mindanao.
(Jocelyn E. Morano, dxBN-Radyo ng Bayan Butuan/PIA-Caraga)

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Robredo to LGUs: make full disclosure of local budget, finances

As part of the Department’s efforts to raise the level of transparency and accountability in local government units, Secretary Jesse M. Robredo of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) today issued guidelines requiring provinces, cities and municipalities of the country to publicly disclose their financial transactions by posting them in conspicuous places within their localities, or publishing in newspapers of general circulation and in their websites.

“This is part of our effort to aggressively scale up interventions to elevate the practice of good governance that values transparency, accountability, participation and performance,” said Robredo during the signing of the memorandum circular in the presence of representatives of the Leagues of Provinces, Cities and Municipalities, civil society organizations and other non-government organizations at the DILG central office in Quezon City.

Robredo cited two laws, the Local Government Code of 1991 and Republic Act 9184 or the Government Procurement Reform Act, that both mandate the full disclosure of local budget and finances, and bids and public offerings. 

Specifically Section 354 of the LG Code requires the posting within 30 days from the end of each fiscal year in at least three publicly accessible and conspicuous places in the local government unit a summary of all revenues collected and funds received including the appropriations and disbursements of such funds during the preceding fiscal year. 

On the other hand, RA 9184 calls for the posting of the invitation to bid, notice of award, notice to proceed and approved contract in the procuring entity’s premises, in newspapers of general circulation, the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System (PhilGEPS) and the website of the procuring entity.

Under the guidelines, governors, city and municipal mayors are directed to publicly disclose their transactions particularly their annual budget with items as to personal services, maintenance and operating expenses and capital outlay; quarterly statement of cash flows; CY 2009 statement of receipts and expenditures; CY 2010 trust fund utilization; special education fund utilization; 20% component of the Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) utilization; gender and development fund; statement of debt service; annual procurement plan; items to bid; bid results on civil works, and goods and services; and abstract of bids as calculated.

Robredo said in the event a local government does no have a website, posting of such financial transactions through the DILG regional office website or the DILG central office website.

“Full disclosure will pave the way for local residents to share their efforts in bringing about desirable development outcomes for their localities. After all, development is a shared responsibility,” he said. 
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He also directed the DILG regional directors to monitor local governments’ compliance with his directive and to submit compliance report to his office, even as he warned local chief executives that non-compliance with the directive shall be dealt with in accordance with pertinent laws, rules and regulations. (DILG/PIA-Caraga)


DILG, Tan, Code-NGO forge agreement to institutionalize DILG-LGU-CSO partnerships

In a move to strengthen the foundation of responsible and accountable governance, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) today formally opened its doors for civil society participation in governance with the signing of a memorandum of agreement with two multi-sectoral networks of national government organizations (NGOs) that seeks to institutionalize partnerships with NGOs at the local level.

DILG Secretary Jesse M Robredo, Executive Director Vicente Lazatin of Transparency and Accountability Network Inc. (TAN), and Anna Marie Karnos representing Executive Director Sixto Donato of Caucus of Development Non-Governmental Organization Networks (CODE) signed the memorandum of agreement today at the DILG Central Office in Quezon City.

Robredo said that the MOA will effectively mobilize and engage CSOs as partners of the DILG and local government units to promote accountability, transparency, inclusivity and performance in local administration and development as well as in the internal operations of the Department.

“We believe in the huge potentials and advantages of collaborative partnerships with NGOs, CSOs, and the private sector in undertaking development projects and in improving government systems and procedures,” said Robredo, during the MOA signing.

Under the MOA, the DILG Secretary said the Department shall hold a monthly Local Governance Forum that will address issues that continue to challenge the norms of performance and accountability.

The DILG is also tasked to establish a communication link with TAN, CODE-NGO and other partners to ensure complementarity of decisions of actions in furtherance of the objectives of the partnerships at the national and local levels. It shall also enjoin DILG regional offices to support the aims of the DILG-CSO and DILG-LGU-CSO partnerships.
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On the other hand, TAN and CODE-NGO shall launch, in collaboration with the DILG, a Social Accountability Initiative to promote civic consciousness and action to provide a balancing perspective on the performance and development conditions of a locality.

They shall also take the lead in convening the Regional Partnership workshops, and regularize the assessment of DILG-CSO and DILG-LGU-CSO partnerships and link information to concerned central and local government authorities for decision and action.
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Moreover, they shall assist the Department in crafting new, or enhancing existing, programs or policies to promote transparency, accountability and performance, as well as in conducting performance tracking and development outcome-audit. 

TAN is a coalition of multi-sectoral organizations which seeks to contribute significantly to the reduction of corruption in the country, while CODE-NGO is a national civil society organization. (DILG/PIA-Caraga)


PIA News Service - Wednesday, Sept. 1, 2010

RDC endorses expansion of Sta. Josefa irrigation project

More farmers in nearby barangays in Sta. Josefa, Agusan del Sur will soon improve their yield when the expansion of Sta.Josefa Pump Irrigation Project will be implemented. The expansion of service area of the projects was endorsed by the Regional Development Council (RDC) during its meeting held on August 20, 2010 for funding by the National Irrigation Administration (NIA).

An additional cost of PhP57.7 million is required to expand the service area from 2,000 hectares to 2,787 hectares. Presently, only the barangays of Angas, Awao, Sayon, Concepcion, San Jose and Patrocinio in Sta. Josefa, Agusan del Sur are covered by adequate irrigation water supply. 

Engr. Greg Y. Pang of NIA said that an additional service area of about 787 hectares will be irrigated in barangays San Jose and Binongahan in Sta. Josefa, Agusan del Sur. The pump irrigation project’s main canal has a capacity of 3.76 cubic meters per second with a length of about 12.12 kilometers, making it possible to convey more irrigation water, he added.
 Getting comments from Governor Amante during the deliberation of the Sta. Josefa Pump Irrigation Project, NEDA-13 RD Carmencita S. Cochingco presides over the RDC-13 Reorganizational Meeting in her capacity as OIC Chair and ex officio Vice-Chair of the Council.
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NEDA-13 Regional Director Carmencita S. Cochingco, who presided over the meeting in her capacity as officer-in-charge and ex officio Vice-Chair of RDC 13, commented that the project will enable the Caraga Region to attain its rice production and food sufficiency targets. (Paris Raymond S. Gaballo, NEDA-13/PIA-Caraga)


Governors Amante, Pimentel nominated to chair RDC 13


Governors Erlpe John M. Amante of Agusan del Norte and Johnny T. Pimentel of Surigao del Sur were nominated as chairperson of the Regional Development Council (RDC) – 13 during its meeting on August 20, 2010, Butuan City.

To be appointed by the President, the RDC 13 chair and co-chair shall serve for a fixed term of three years as provided under Executive Order 325 of 1996. This term shall coincide with the regular term of the elective officials without prejudice to reappointment.
Governors Erlpe John M. Amante, Johnny T. Pimentel, Adolph Edward G. Plaza and Mayor Alexander T. Pimentel attend the RDC reorganizational meeting.

Also nominated as RDC 13 co-chairperson were Engr. Leonel A. Santos and Mr. Marlon C. Advincula, who are both private sector representatives to the newly reorganized Council. The same EO sets out the condition that if the chair comes from the government sector, the co-chair shall be chosen from the private sector and vice-versa.

NEDA-13 Regional Director Carmencita S. Cochingco, who presided over the reorganizational meeting, has been the officer-in-charge of the Council for almost three years since former President Arroyo did not appoint RDC chair and co-chair for Caraga Region.

The RDC was created by the Constitution to strengthen the autonomy of the local government units and accelerate the socio-economic development of the regions. (Graziella C. Harting, NEDA-13/PIA-Caraga)


RDC 13 confirms membership of 10 PSRs

Ten private sector representatives (PSRs) in the Regional Development Council (RDC) – 13 were confirmed recently during the Council’s reorganizational meeting on August 20, 2010 at Butuan City.

Among the confirmed PSRs who will serve for three years, four had already previous experience in the RDC, namely: Mr. Gregorio P. Hontiveros, chairperson of Propegemus Foundation, Butuan City; Engr. Leonel A. Santos, president of the Surigao Economic Development Foundation (SEDF), Surigao City; Ms. Carolina R. Tidalgo, program officer of the Surigao Sur Organization for Human Development, Inc. (SSOFHDEV), Tandag City; and, Mr. Greggo B. Uriarte, member of the Surigao del Norte NGO Coalition for Development, Surigao del Norte. 
PSRs participate in the discussion of issues during the RDC 63rd Full Council Meeting at Butuan City.
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Neophyte PSRs who are also taking their seats in the region’s highest policy-making body are the following: Mr. Vidal M. Luna, chairperson of the Tago Agro-Industrial Development Cooperative (TAGINDECO), Surigao del Sur; Mr. Rex T. Linao, member of the Human Economic and Development (HEED), Inc.; Mr. James Jay C. Satorre, president of the Educational Discipline in Culture and Area-based Development Services, Inc. (EDCADS), Agusan del Norte; Mr. Marlon C. Advincula, executive director of the Loving Presence Foundation, Inc., Bislig City; Dr. Bernardo T. Mora, president of the Family Planning Organization of the Philippines, Inc. (FPOP); and, Mr. Ricky C. Neniza, chairperson of the Dinagat Islands Federation of Cooperatives, Dinagat Islands.

The selection of Mr. Alfredo L. Baluyut, Jr, member and adviser of the Butuan City Chamber of Commerce and Industry Foundation, Inc., Butuan City and Mr. Romeo C. Dahuyag, chairperson of the Cabadbaran Civil Society Organization Network, Cabadbaran City are yet to be confirmed in the next Council’s meeting. Labor sector and Bayugan City representatives’ selection is still going on.

PSRs comprise a quarter of seats in the Council where it determines sectoral and geographical allocations. Caraga’s RDC allocates a total of 14 seats for the private sector. Of the 14 seats, 11 are for the geographical representatives of provinces and cities while the other three seats are for the sectoral representatives. (Graziella C. Harting, NEDA-13/PIA-Caraga)


Caraga Region to prepare 2010-2016 development plan


Caraga Region will be preparing its successor Regional Development Plan (RDP) for period 2010-2016 after the Regional Development Council (RDC) approved during its 63rd Full Council Meeting on August 20, 2010 the guidelines for the formulation of a successor plan, also known as the Medium-Term Regional Development Plan (MTRDP).  

Since the previous RDP will expire this year, the successor plan will set the development direction of the region in the next six years, starting 2011 under the administration of President Benigno C. Aquino III.

The guidelines underscore the guiding principles to be adopted in the successor plan namely inclusive growth and poverty reduction, application of participatory and human rights based approaches, integration of disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation concepts and strategies, gender equality and development, vertical and horizontal plan integration and support to the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDG). 
Engr. Emmanuel Z. Gidacan, technical staff of NEDA 13, presents the guidelines of the successor plan during the RDC meeting on August 20, 2010, Butuan City.
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Consequently, a series of regional and local consultations will be conducted by the NEDA Caraga in the formulation of the successor plan. Said plan is targeted to be completed, legitimized and adopted by the Council in October 2010. (Graziella C. Harting, NEDA-13/PIA-Caraga)


Armed men torched high school building

Two unidentified masked men armed with firearms of unknown caliber torched the extension room of a high school building made of light materials and set ablaze its canteen, an hour before midnight, Sunday before making their escape to some unknown direction.
 
Moises Pinchenavis, of legal age, designated as watchman of Maningalao High School, of Brgy. Maningalao, Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte reported to Las Nieves Municipal Police Station that two armed men wearing a ski mask (bonnet) suddenly entered the school premises. He told the police investigators that he could not accost the intruders since both were armed, but could only conceal himself at a dark portion of the place watching their every move. 
 
He narrated to the police that he saw the two armed men set on fire the extension room of the school building made of light materials. The suspects also blazed the school canteen before making their escape to some unknown direction.
 
After the armed men were gone, he went out of his hiding place and cried for help calling up the attention of the nearby residents who immediately went out of their residences and helped him put out the fire.
 
He then reported the incident to the police, which immediately sent a team to the area to render the necessary security and assistance and to conduct an investigation.
 
Las Nieves police is conducting a deeper probe on the incident to ascertain the motive, identify the perpetrators and file the appropriate charges in court. (Noel B. Najarro, Butuan Star/PIA-Caraga)


DILG launches public assistance center

To bring the Department closer to the people, Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse M. Robredo today led officials of the Department in launching its Public Assistance Center (PAC).

The center, located at the ground floor of the DILG central office in Quezon City, will receive and quickly respond to and act on requests for assistance as well as complaints that are brought to the attention of the Department by the public.

“We would like the ordinary Filipinos to feel the Department’s presence and ensure them that we are a listening and working DILG,” he said.

Robredo said a similar public assistance center shall also be established in every regional office of the Department nationwide.

He explained that “through the center, the people will feel the presence and services of the Department and bring the government closer to them.”

According to the DILG Secretary, anyone who would like to avail himself of the service of the Public Assistance Center may personally visit the DILG office or send his request for assistance through e-mail at dilgmail@dilg.gov.ph, or text message at DILG 2256, or telephone nos. 9250343 and 9250366.

Robredo said the center, which will be supervised by a management committee, shall be manned by designated action officers from the bureaus and attached agencies of the Department who shall receive and act on grievances and other related concerns from the public, and provide timely feedback on how such concerns are being acted upon.

The DILG secretary said the committee shall also develop a performance measurement tool to gauge the success of the system, and define the delineation of responsibilities and functions of all concerned units on the various offices of the Department. (DILG/PIA-Caraga)