(PAGASA 24-HOUR PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST as of Thursday, 02 April 2026) Easterlies affecting the country. Easterlies ang makaapekto sa rehiyon sa Caraga.


PIA News Service - Friday, Oct. 29, 2010

Surigao Norte Gov reports first 100 days

By Fryan E. Abkilan

Surigao del Norte (22 October) – Gov. Sol Matugas, wife of 1st district representative Cong. Francisco Matugas, delivered her first ever 100 days report before her constituents at the Provincial Convention Center, Thursday morning (Oct. 28).

In her 30-minute speech, Gov. Matugas said that 100 days is too short for her to prove that she has done much to her constituency. Nevertheless, she thanked the Surigaonons for giving her the mandate to lead the province. “As such, I have taken to heart this tall order to fulfill the developmental platform you have placed your faith and hope in, to start the journey on this road to healing and progress,” Matugas said.

The Lady Governor also took pride on thanking her Team Capitol, to the municipal mayors, and to the barangay captains, “who have worked untiringly with me, since Day 1 in achieving our developmental targets.”

Progress Report

Gov. Matugas centered her report on four significant points to wit, 1) laying the foundations for efficient and effective administration; 2) promoting transparency and accountability; 3) establishing networks and linkages, and 4) implementing the HEALS Development Agenda.

According to Gov. Matugas, laying a good foundation for an efficient and effective administration was on top of her list of tasks to be accomplished. “To embark on the tasks ahead, we have to first set our own house in order.” Thus, she immediately initiated housekeeping efforts when she assumed office as the governor.

“We have conducted a review and reorganization of the provincial capitol offices and departments, merged existing but redundant offices and created new ones to streamline our workforce.”

A total face-lifting of the provincial capitol was also done thru a cleanliness and beautification drive plus a repainting of the capitol building including the renovations of the Governor’s Mansion, the Provincial Capitol Chapel, Capitol Park and the Legacy Garden.

Gov. Matugas also implemented a salary adjustment for the capitol employees, among others, “to augment the meager pay that our people are receiving.”

New programs that promote transparency and accountability were likewise launched and implemented by the lady governor. Among them are the Governor’s Weekend Report aired weekly over the local radio stations, a round table discussion dubbed as “Kapihan sa Kapitolyo,” and the “Ang Bag-ong Surigao” magazine, their official publication.
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To promote consensus-building and a participatory approach in governance, Gov. Matugas said they were able to successfully established networks and linkages with various stakeholders, worth mentioning are the projects of AUSAID - Prov’l Road Management Facility (PRMF), Oxford Family, United Nations Development Fund, World Bank Global facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery and Growth with Equity in Mindanao.

Implementation of the HEALS Development Agenda

 The governor proudly shared that her HEALS program covering the areas of Health, Education and Environment, Agriculture and Aquaculture, Livelihood and Tourism, and Social Welfare, Security and Spiritual Renewal were successfully launched and concretized.

 “On top of our health program is the revival of the ‘Panambay sa Barangay’ project of Cong. Lalo Matugas when he was then the governor,” she narrated.

As for education, the governor also bared the implementation of 100% increase in the salary of school board teachers, from P3,000 to P6,000 plus a chalk allowance of P1,000.

On an effort to protect the environment and curb environmental violations, Gov. Matugas then issued Executive Order No. 007, suspending the quarry and small scale mining permits in the province. 

Gov. Matugas also revealed that an increased in food production is one of the significant components of her program thus a Provincial Agriculture Satellite Office and Training Center was established in the town of Del Carmen to cater to the needs of the farmers in Siargao Island.

As for livelihood and tourism promotions, the lady governor advocated a tourism development agenda that is pro-poor and one that does not compromise the moral fabric of the Surigaonons. 

“We have pushed for the organization and conduct of local tourism and culture festivals such as the Bakhaw Festival in Del Carmen, Sapao-sapao Festival in Sta. Monica, Lubi-lubi Festival in Bacuag and the widely participated Siargao Surfing festival in Gen. Luna.”

Also, to respond to some uniquely difficult situations and needs of our indigent brothers and sisters, a Public Welfare Assistance Counter was established, plus the organization of “Save our Lives” (SOL) multi-agency unit to provide assistance and support when disaster operations are beyond the capacity of the local disaster units in times of calamities.

In her next 100 days and beyond, Gov. Matugas along with her team is determined and committed to fulfill what have set out to do since Day 1 – the implementation of programs and projects to uplift the life of the Surigaonons through the HEALS agenda and more. (PIA-Surigao del Norte)


SILG visits caraga

Camp Rafael C Rodriguez, Libertad, Butuan City - Caraga Police Director PCSUPT REYNALDO SERRANO RAFAL, CEO VI personally met Secretary of Interior and Local Government Jessie M Robredo yesterday morning in Surigao City from Manila via Air Philippines.  

Secretary Robredo was accorded with plane side honors and appropriate over and covert security in all his areas of engagement. SILG was the Guest of Honor and Speaker of the 2nd Surigao del Norte Provincial Development Council Meeting and First 100 Days Progress Report of Governor Sol F. Matugas in Surigao del Norte.  

The activity which was held in Surigao Provincial Convention Center started with a Ribbon Cutting of Surigao's Best and Tourist Information Center Provincial Sports Complex followed by the viewing of 1st 100 Days Photo Gallery.  

The viewing of photo gallery was subsequently followed by a 100 Days Progress Report of Governor Sol F. Matugas with a welcome message by Hon. Ernesto T. Matugas, City Mayor, Surigao City and Congressman Guillermno A Romarate Jr. Representative, 2nd Congressional District and followed by the introduction of Guest of Honot and Speaker by Hon. Francisco T. Matugas, Representative, 1st Congressional District. Secretary Robredo was awarded with a Plaque of Appreciation by the top brass of Surigao City and province of Surigao del Norte.  

SILG also led the Mass Oath Taking of newly elected Punong Barangays in the province and immediately followed by the Launching of Barangay Education Strategic Team or Project BEST and Signing of Memorandum of Agreement with DepEd Division Superintendents. 

The project BEST is a joint effort of the Department of Education and the Local Government Units, through the Barangay Council which aimed at addressing the existing gaps between the current education status and the goals of the education for all (EFA) 2015.  

Also, one of the highlights of said activity is the Business Permits and Licensing System (BPLS) Project launching and MOA signing with 4 pilot LGUs (Surigao City, Claver, Mainit, Tubod) DILG, DTI and SCCI.  

The awarding of Certificates to Top Three Best Performers on Revenue Collection was made by Secretary Robredo assisted by Governor Sol. F Matugas. During lunch break, press conference and consultation meeting was made with Secretary Robredo and Congressman Romarate Jr; Congressman Matugas; Governor Matugas and Sangguniang Panlalawigan Members; City and Municipal Mayors. The 2nd Provincial Development Council Meeting immediately followed.

As the policemen press on with the task at hand in coordination with the Local Government Units, RD RAFAL said the PNP has to pool the resources to achieve the goals and most importantly to make this country a better place to live in and for the future generation. 

The policemen in CARAGA will not stop, instead, press on and never falter with the help of the community. Someday, the PNP will see the fruits of labor - a much better Philippines for the future generation. He emphasized that the law enforcer cannot afford to say "Bahala Na" and leave everything to fate. The police force need to harmonize the efforts, every division in the PNP, need this collective effort so the policies that the organization so ardently advocate will be eventually realized. (PCI Nelly Tabornal Villagarcia, PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)


Three hundred Pregnant women benefit from Buntis Congress in Butuan City

Butuan City - Three hundred would-be mothers from different barangays received health care services during the recently-held “Buntis Congress” sponsored by ABS-CBN DZMM Teleradyo, in cooperation with the City Government of Butuan, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, the Department of Health, National Nutrition Council and Midwives Association of the Philippines.

The event was aimed at promoting and developing the knowledge in healthcare and safety of would-be mothers. Informative discussions and seminars of newborn care and responsible parenthood with free natal check-up were given in the said event. The would-be participating mothers also received free baby kits and free lunch from DZMM.

The City Government of Butuan, through its City Health Office, provided the ambulance and other health care services for the pregnant mothers. Mayor Ferdinand Amante of Butuan City considered the event as a noteworthy endeavor as it provided the expectant mothers of Butuan City the basic knowledge in health care and safety for their babies aimed towards achieving responsible parenthood. 

Buntis Congress was hosted by ABS-CBN morning show host Winnie Cordero. Would-be mothers were serenaded by former Pinoy Dream Academy finalist Ronnie Liang, who sang his OPM hit “Ngiti”, placing sweet smiles in the 300 would-be mothers. (Mary Christine Anthonette M. Salise, DILG-13/PIA-Caraga)


POLICE REPORTS
By PO3 Arturo Suganob Campania

Progress report on ambush incident 

A case of multiple frustrated murder and highway robbery in band was filed against Felizardo Valdez, Eman Carlo, Elay, George Madlos, Myrna Sularte, Juanito Bonite, Dodong Mabras, Roger Tolentino and John Does, docketed under I.S. Nr 13-03-INV-10J-190, dated October 28, 2010 at Provincial Prosecutors Office, Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur. 

It was recalled that PNP personnel of Prosperidad Police Station led by Chief of Police, PCINSP APOLLO BLAZO ABAO was ambushed at Brgy Libertad, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur on October 20, 2010 at 1:20 PM by more or less thirty (30) fully armed men believed to be members of CTs which resulted to the Wounded In Action (WIA) of the following: PCINSP APOLLO BLAZO ABAO, SPO2 Mellardo Lumain, PO3 Leo Rhoderick Urbiztondo, PO2 Marcial S Corvera and one wounded civilian identified as Rosalie Rufon y Mabali, Brgy secretary of Brgy Libertad of said town.  

Said PNP personnel were on their way back to the station from rendering security during the distribution of land titles by the Local Government Unit of Prosperidad at Brgy Mabuhay of said municipality. 

Firefight ensued which lasted more or less 10 minutes. As a result of said incident, said personnel were over powered and subdued with the overwhelming strength by the CTs and were robbed of their issued firearm consisting four (4) m16 rifles, one (1) 9mm pistol, four (4) bandoleers and ten (10) magazines of m16 and damaged to Patrol Vehicle. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Report on illegal fishing 

PNP elements of Carrascal Municipal Police Station led by SPO2 Noel B Ricamara together with deputized Fish Warden conducted operation agaisnt illegal fishing at the Fish Sanctuary of Brgy Adlay, Carrasca, Surigao del Sur on October 26, 2010 at 9:35 pm which resulted to the arrest of the following: Joy Eric Sahilan y Sayson, 29 yrs old; Jonathan Ganacias y Guarte, 23 years old and Alfred Ganancias y Guarte, 15 years old, all fisherman and resident of Brgy Consuelo, Cantilan, Surigoa del Sur.

Confiscated from their possession were one (1) wooden paddle; one (1) scaling device; two (2) flashlights; one (1) box containing more or less two (2) kgms of assorted fish and one (1) unit pumpboat with red color Honda 13HP engine. Suspects and confiscated items were brought to Carrascal MPS for proper disposition. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Cabadbaran PNP arrest wanted person 

One Ma. Fe Rosales y Gangca, 44 years old, married and resident of Brgy 10, Cabadbaran, Agusan del Norte was arrested by PNP elements of Cabadbaran City Police Station led by PSINSP ADRIAN ANTONIO by virtue of WOA issued by Hon Judge Emmanuel E Escatron of RTC Branch 34, Cabadbaran City dated October 20, 2010 for the crime of estafa, docketed under CC nr CR-10-64 with recommended bailbond amounting to Php 40,000.00. Apprehension took place at Brgy 10, Cabadbaran, Agusan del Norte on October 27, 2010 at 9:10 A.M. Subject person now detained at said Station for proper disposition.
(PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Report on shooting incident 

One Nelson Luna y Cemaco, 34 years old, married DENR employee and resident of P-1, Maharlika, Bislig City was shot by two unidentified suspects with the use of cal .45 pistol. 

Initial investigation disclosed that that the victim while playing Billiard at Rodulfo Caballero's Billiard Billiard Hall at Purok 6, San Roque, Bislig City on October 27, 2010 at 9:00 pm, suspects approached and shot the victim at the back portion of his head resulting to his instantaneous death. 

Suspects fled after the incident. Prior to the incident, Victim's wife Phanie Jane Luna received several threats through text messages since the victim assigned at DENR Monitoring in Bislig City three months ago. 

Responding PNP personnel recovered from the crime scene three (3) spent shell of cal .45. Thorough investigation now conducted for possible identity and arrest of the suspect. Progress report to follow. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Report on suicide incident 

One Mrs Margie Bersabal y Cebrian reported to Santiago Municipal Police Station on October 28, 2010 at 6:20 am and informed that her younger brother one Rolly Debrian y Morgado, 38 yrs old, single and res of Zone 2, Brgy Poblacion 2, Santiago, Agusan del Norte was found lifeless hanged with nylon rope tie on his neck at the center beam timber (sagunting) of his house of said place. 

PNP elements of Santiago Municipal Police Station proceeded to the crime scene and conducted investigation. Two weeks ago, the victim was left behind by his live-in partner. He was seen by the populace walking in the streets carrying sharp pointed bolo. At around 3:00 am of October 28, victim was seen by the populace jogging near his house and at around 6:00 am, was found lifeless hanging at his house. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Opening of brgy peacekeeping action teams (bpats) trainor's training

Police Regional Office 13 personnel headed by Regional Director PCSUPT REYNALDO SERRANO RAFAL, PhD, CEO VI, attended the opening ceremony of Brgy Peacekeeping Action Teams (BPATs) Trainor's Traning held at Function Room, City Hall, Butuan City on October 27, 2010 at 8:00 am, together with Dir Romeo Solis, DILG City Director; Atty Wilfredo Salino, Legal Officer of NAPOLCOM and Mrs Lea Amante Mendoza, Butuan City Administrator. The activity was also graced by the presence of PCSUPT MARIO A AVENIDO, Deputy Director, Directorate for Police Community Relations as the guest of Honor and speaker. Program started with the opening rituals and followed by acknowledgement of participants by PCINSP MARTIN M GAMBA; Welcome Remarks by PSSUPT MANSUE N LUKBAN, Regional Chief of the Directorial Staff; Overview of Memo Circular Nr 2009-145 by DILG representative and Introduction of GOH and speaker by PSUPT INOCENTES J CAPUNO, Acting Chief, Regional Police Community Relations Division. Afterwhich, the message of PCSUPT MARIO A AVENIDO and the awarding of Memento given to the GOH and Speaker by PRO 13 Regional Director PCSUPT REYNALDO SERRANO RAFAL, PhD, CEO VI. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)
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Government troops encounter more or less 30 NPA in Agusan

On 29 October 2010 at 6:40 am troops of 26IB, 4ID PA under LtCol Nhel Richard Patricio PA, conducted combat operations encountered more or less 30 New Peoples Army (NPA) specifically Guerilla Front (GF3) of Southern Mindanao Regional Party Committee (SMRC) at Barangay Sinubong, Viruela, Agusan Del Sur. 
 
Fierce firefight lasted for about 10 minutes then the NPA scampered towards different directions.
 
Two high powered firearms captured by the government troop an M16 armalite rifle and garrand rifle.
 
No casualty on the government side, while the NPA suffered undetermined casualties.
 
It was learned, prior to the encounter that an angry resident reported to the government troops on the presence of the armed groups in their village asking foodstuff.  
 
 Pursuit operation conducted against the fleeing NPA.
 
Major General Victor A. Felix Commander 4ID assures that combat operations conducted is to secure the people from the explicit and implicit terror purported by NPA especially in the countryside and the respect for human rights are strictly observe. (4TH Infantry (Diamond) Division, Philippine Army/PIA-Caraga)


PIA News Service - Thursday, Oct. 28, 2010

Legarda lauds implementation of discount on more goods for seniors, as she bats for representation of the elderly in LGUs

Senator Loren Legarda today lauded the Departments of Agriculture and Trade and Industry for implementing the five percent discount on at least twenty more basic commodities purchased by senior citizens.

Legarda, principal author of Republic Act 9994 or the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010, said that she is pleased with this development in the implementation of the law because it gives senior citizens discounts on a wider range of basic commodities—which now include fresh fruits, flour, certain dairy products, geriatric diapers, herbicides, and certain construction materials, among others.

“Our senior citizens deserve to enjoy a full and happy life. Thus, we want to provide them with special discounts and privileges on their purchases to the furthest extent that could possibly be allowed,” she said.

Meanwhile, as Legarda commended the implementation of additional benefits for the elderly, she stressed the need for senior citizens to be represented in local legislation and special bodies in all local government units (LGUs).

The Senator said her proposed measure, Senate Bill 1418, seeks to provide representation of the elderly in every Sanggunian and local special bodies in all LGUs.

“It is not enough that we make laws and policies for the elderly. What we must do is to allow them active participation in nation building, particularly in policy-making and local legislation, so that they themselves can push for the institutionalization of programs that would address their special needs and concerns,” Legarda said.

Under the bill, all Sangguniang Barangay, Sangguniang Bayan, Sangguniang Panlungsod andSangguniang Panlalawigan shall reserve a seat for a senior citizens’ representative who shall enjoy all the privileges and emoluments enjoyed by regular members of theSanggunian.

In electing a representative, the senior citizens shall organize themselves and elect from among them a chairperson who will represent them in theSanggunians.

“We recognize the rights of senior citizens, which is why we want not only to provide them with their special needs, but also to support and encourage their full participation in society,” Legarda stressed. (Office of Senator Loren Legarda/PIA-Caraga)


POLICE REPORTS
By PO3 Arturo Suganob Campania

Report on carnapping and apprehension of suspects 

One unit single motorcycle with plate number 4157 LM, owned by Danilo Cumba and driven by one Melchor Gerong, Brgy Captain of Brgy Poblacion, Magallanes, Agusan del Norte was forcibly taken by four unidentified suspects at Beach Resort, Sitio Dahican, Brgy Caloc-an, Magallanes, Agusan del Norte on October 26, 2010 at 7:40 pm. 

Initial investigation conducted by Magallanes Municipal Police Station revealed that the motorcycle involved was borrowed by said Brgy Captain from the owner to meet his friends who were having a party at the Beach Resort. Upon reaching at said place, he noticed a group of unidentified persons wherein two of them armed with a knife approached and threatened him prompting the Brgy Captain to alight and ran away leaving the motorcycle and the key. 

The two suspects then took the motorcycle and fled heading towards National Highway. Immediately, personnel of Magallanes Municipal Police Station conducted hot pursuit operation which resulted to the apprehension of the other two suspect namely Michael jusay y Porogoy and Raden Sandag y Agda, both legal age and res of Santiago, Agusan del Norte. Further investigation revealed that the carnapped motorcycle was brought by the other two suspect towards Surigao City. 

Apprehended suspects were brought to Magallanes Municipal Police Station for proper disposition while hot pursuit operation was conducted to recover the carnapped motorcycle and arrest of the remaining suspects. Appropriate case now prepared by Magallanes Municipal Police Station for filing in court.
(PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)
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Butuan cops arrest wanted person 

One Rodrigo L Butron, 25 years old, married and resident of P-2, Brgy Don Pedro, San Luis, Agusan del Sur was arrested by joint PNP personnel from Regional Intelligence Division of PRO 13, Butuan City Police Station 4 and San Luis Municipal Police Station led by Chief of Police PCINSP NILO TEXON by virtue of WOA issued by Hon Judge Hector Salise of RTC Branch 7, Bayugan City charged for murder, docketed under CC nr 3151, dated May 6, 2010 with no bailbond recommended.  

Apprehension took place at P-2, Brgy Don Pedro, San Luis, Agusan del Sur on October 25, 2010 at 6:00 pm. Subject person now detained at San Luis Municipal Police Station for proper disposition.

PNP elements of San Francisco Municipal Police Station led by PO3 Warren Joy M Urbistondo arrested one Jennifer G Alicante, 29 yrs old, married, housewife and resident of P-4, Brgy 2, San Francisco, Agusan del Sur by virtue of WOA issued by Hon Judge Dan Luz N Viacrusis of RTC Branch 6, Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur for 17 cases of qualified theft, docketed under CC nr 7266-7282 with recommended bailbond amounting to Php 24,000.00 each.

Apprehension took place at Provincial Capitol Bldg, Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur on October 26, 2010 at 10:00 am. Subject person now detained at San Francisco MPS for proper disposition. 

Also, one Juan Asumen y Beoty, 44 years old, married and resident of P-5, Cabugao, Bacuag, Surigao del Norte was arrested by PNP elements of Bacuag Municipal Police Station led by PINSP CIRIACO M PACER JR by virtue of WOA issued by Hon Judge Evangeline Yuipco Bayana of RTC Branch 32m Surigao City charged for frustrated murder, docketed under CC nr 8689 with recommended bailbond amounting to Php 200,00.00.

Apprehension took place at P-5, Cabugao, Bacuag, Surigao del Norte on October 27, 2010 at 7:30 am. Subject person now detained at Bacuag Municipal Police Station for proper disposition. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

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Cebuano News: Sen. Legarda miduso sa Magna Carta para sa Barangays

Ni Michael Imbo

BUTUAN CITY - Human ang mabungahon nga piniliay sa Barangay giduso ni Senador Loren Legarda ang pagpasa sa Magna Carta alang sa kabarangayan isip pagsugod sa termino sa mga bag-ong napiling lider sa Barangay ug Sanguniang Kabataan.

Giklaro ni Legarda nga angayan nga tagaan sa National Government sa prayoridad ang mga barangay sa mga basic nga panginahanglan lakip na ang pinansyal nga suporta niini.

Gitumbok sa Senadora nga ang opisyal sa kabarangayan ang mauy unang dalangpan sa kumunidad apil na niana ang serbisyong publiko nga gikinahanglan sa katawhan.

Si Sen. Legarda nagkanayon nga "We want the national government to give more attention to the development of the barangay, as it is the base of our country's economy. Every barangay should be given the authority and capability to solve its problems on its level. Thus, the need to establish a Magna Carta for Barangays," 

Ilalom sa gi-aprobahan nga Senate Bill 1336 kinsa gipanday ni Legarda nga nagtugot sa barangay opisyal nga mahimong regular government employees ug makadawat kini sa pinansyal nga pundo ug benipisyo sa gobyerno.

Dugang niini nga ipa-abot usab sa tanan nga barangay sa nasud ang mga basic nga serbisyo sama sa water supply, transportasyon, pagpatukod sa tulunghaan, mga health centers, ug barangay halls.

Katungod sa barangay nga maapil sa mga proyekto pinaagi sa pundo nga nagikan sa buhis sa national aron makahimo sa mga roads projects, mga tulay, ug konstraksyon nga magamit sa kumunidad.

"We realize the hard work of our barangay leaders. They are the ones who directly deal with the concerns of the people every day. They deserve to enjoy the salary and benefits of a regular government employee," sulti ni Legarda.

Giasoy sa Senador nga ang barangay ang nahimong primary planning ug ngipon sa implementasyon sa unit government programs. Gikinahanglan niini nga idugang ang gahom sa mga lider sa barangay ang kapasidad nga magresolba sa krisis sa kumunidad, tahasan sa pundok nga people power nga magiya paingon sa kalamboan ug panaghiusa sa katawhan alang sa development projects. (PIA-Caraga)


Police scores anew on campaign against wanted persons

Camp Rafael C Rodriguez, Libertad, Butuan City - Joint elements of 13th Regional Criminal Investigation and Detection Unit (13th RCIDU) and Regional Intelligence Division of PRO 13 scored yesterday afternoon in the implementation of OPLAN PAGTUGIS (Campaign against Most Wanted Persons and other Wanted Persons and OPLAN SALIKOP (Campaign Against Organized Crime Groups and Criminal Gangs). The police force led by PINSP ALFREDO S LAMBOT, Agusan del Sur CIDT Provincial Chief, under the direct supervision of PSUPT RITCHIE MEDARDO A POSADAS, Regional Chief, 13th RCIDU arrested yesterday 5:00 o clock in the afternoon at Poblacion, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur. One Mario Mantua y Nunez, 32 years old, utility worker of Prosperidad municipality, a resident of Poblacion, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur and a member of Dagaang Group, a notorious Criminal Gang operating in the province of Agusan del Sur, involved/engaged in Robbery/Hold-up and Gun-for-hire activities.  

Arrested person was one of the members of said criminal gang that shot-to-death PO1 Michael Amba Anub and PO1 Peter Milan Cutamura, PNP personnel assigned with the Mobile Group and both undergoing Field Training Program (FTP) with the Bayugan City Police Station which resulted to their untimely death. The two were divested of their two (2) temporary issued M16 rifles. The shooting happened on August 27, 2009 at about 4:00 o clock PM infront of Santiago store located at Libres Street, Barangay Taglatawan, Bayugan, Agusan del Sur.

The arrest operation was made by virtue of two (2) warrant of arrest issued by Judge Hector B Salise, Presiding Judge, RTC, Branch 7, 10th Judicial Region, Bayugan, Agusan del Sur, docketed under criminal case number 3032 and 3034 for Robbery with Homicide thru Direct Assault, dated September 11, 2009 with no bailbond recommended. Caraga Police Director PCSUPT REYNALDO SERRANO RAFAL commended the joint operation of PRO 13 Regional Intelligence Division (RID) together with Personnel from 13th CIDU for a job well done which accordingly deserves to be recognized. RD RAFAL said the apprehension of the suspect is the result of the month long surveillance of the joint operatives of the PNP and the series of operation done by Caraga police in an effort to curb wanted persons in the region, he added. (PCI Nelly Tabornal Villagarcia, PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)
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U.S. Embassy and U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency Officials Inaugurate Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Regional Headquarters in Butuan City

To further enhance the administrative and logistics capability of the agents of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) operating in Northern Mindanao, the U.S. Embassy and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency inaugurated PDEA’s newly renovated Regional Headquarters in Butuan City on October 28. Funded by the U.S. Government, the $400,000 facility reinforces the U.S. Government’s commitment to support the capability of civilian law enforcement agencies in Mindanao.
U.S. DEA Assistant Country AttachĆ© Kent Marchant represented the U.S. Government while PDEA Director General Dionisio Santiago; Butuan City Mayor Ferdinand Amante represented by Councilor Ryan Anthony Culima; and Agusan Del Norte Governor Erlpe John Amante represented the Philippine Government. 

The renovation consisted of the complete demolition of the existing structure and the construction of a new modern facility. PDEA’s Region XIII headquarters now consists of a two-storey building with administrative spaces, kitchen facilities, lavatories, two dormitories, a weapons magazine, and evidence locker.  

“We hope that this building will provide a good base and office for the PDEA agents of Region XIII to carry out their missions as they strive to promote peace, security, and safety in a drug-free environment,” said U.S. DEA Assistant Country AttachĆ© Kent Marchant. (US Embassy Press Office/PIA-Caraga)


PIA News Service - Wednesday, Oct. 27, 2010

Barangay, SK Elections in Caraga and Region X successful

Cagayan de Oro City – The Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections were successfully and peacefully held both in Caraga and Region X last October 25, 2010. 

Major General Victor A Felix, Commander of 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army said, “despite minor untoward incidents occurred prior to the election day, the democratic process was pushed through in our area of responsibility.”

It was learned that the success of the election was due to the close coordination with the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), Philippine National Police (PNP), 4ID, Local Government Units (LGUs) and other concerned groups. 

Moreover, the election paraphernalia were safely delivered to its designated precinct sites and was also retrieved safely.

However, failure of election in five (5) barangays of San Agustin, Surigao del Sur such as Poblacion, Buhisan, Kauswagan, Otiza, and Sto. NiƱo was caused by the delayed delivery of official ballots in the area.

Nevertheless, the election of the said barangays is rescheduled on Wednesday, October 27 this year. (4th Infantry (Diamond) Division, Philippine Army, PIA-Caraga)


Legarda pushes for Magna Carta for barangays

As barangay leaders start a new term of office following the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections, Senator Loren Legarda today sought for the passage of a proposed measure establishing the Magna Carta for Barangays.

Legarda stressed that the national government should promote the welfare and prosperity of the barangay as it is the basic political unit where the collective views of the people in the community may be crystallized and considered.

“We want the national government to give more attention to the development of the barangay, as it is the base of our country’s economy. Every barangay should be given the authority and capability to solve its problems on its level. Thus, the need to establish a Magna Carta for Barangays,” she said.

Under Senate Bill 1336, which Legarda authored, barangay officials will be considered as regular government employees entitled to the salaries and benefits of such.

The barangay will also be provided with its basic necessities, such as regular supply of clean and potable water, public transportation, schools, health centers and Barangay halls.

Furthermore, its share from national taxes and other fees and charges shall be released automatically, and funds for the maintenance of roads, bridges and other similar constructions shall be transferred to the barangay.

“We realize the hard work of our barangay leaders. They are the ones who directly deal with the concerns of the people every day. They deserve to enjoy the salary and benefits of a regular government employee,” Legarda said.

“We also want the barangay to enjoy local autonomy especially since it serves as the primary planning and implementing unit of government programs, projects and activities. With this measure, the barangay shall have the added capacity to resolve any crisis in the community. Self-help or people power shall be the guiding principle in all barangay development projects,” she concluded. (Office of Senator Loren Legarda/PIA-Caraga)


POLICE REPORTS
By PO2 Darlin Cabalinan-Migullas

Report on shooting incident

On October 25, 2010 at around 7:20 in the evening at P-7, Sitio Kasana-ag, Brgy. Guadalupe, Esperanza, Agusan del Sur, a certain Allan Peligo Bertudazo, 26 years old and a resident of the above mentioned place was shot with the use of homemade shotgun by one Donde Neri Sukatre, 49 years old, married and a resident of P-6 of the said place. 

Upon receipt of the said report, joint elements of Esperanza MPS and Philippine Army assigned in the said area conducted pursuit operation, which resulted to the arrest of the said suspect, while the victim was brought to DO Plaza Memorial Hospital for medical treatment. Suspect is now under the custody of Esperanza MPS for proper disposition and case is being prepared for filing in court. Motive-personal grudge.

Meanwhile, one Elizer Pedrozo Mation, 26 years old, employee of PHILSAGA Mining Corporation located at Bayugan 3, Agusan del Sur and a resident of Kalaitan, Bayugan 1, Agusan del Sur was shot by unidentified person using a caliber 38 pistol at around 10:00 O'clock in the evening of October 25, 2010 at Sitio Tindugan, Brgy. Ban-as, Lianga, Surigao del Sur. 

Initial investigation disclosed that the said victim was waiting for a public utility vehicle (PUV) when the said suspect suddenly approach and shot the victim at close range, hitting his chest. Said victim was brought to Lianga District Hospital for medical treatment but was dead on arrival by the attending physician, while the suspect fled to the mountainous area of the Lianga, Surigao del Sur. Elements of Lianga MPS are still conducting follow up investigation for possible identification and arrest of the said suspect. Motive is still to be determined. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Report on traffic accident

On October 25, 2010 at around 2:00 O'clock in the afternoon at Km. 3, Brgy. Baan, Butuan City, one Mitsubishi L300 Van with plate number LMF 141 driven by one Carlito Espina y Bautista, 48 years old, single and a resident of the above mentioned place was accidentally bumped by a Honda single motorcycle with plate number KF 9570, driven by one Rinz albert G. Baring, 18 years old, and a resident of P-2, Bonbon, Butuan City, with three (3) passengers on board identified as: as Christine Cahapay, 18 years old; Erica Fe Cahapay and Sheila Jane Cahapay, both minors and residents of Brgy. Baan, Butuan City. 

As a result, Rinz Albert Baring died on the spot while the passengers sustained injuries on the different parts of their bodies and were brought to Butuan City Medical Center for medical treatment. Both vehicles were impounded at the traffic section of Butuan City Police Station (BCPS) 1 for investigation and safekeeping.

On the other hand, at around 6:58 in the evening of October 25, 2010, elements of BCPS 3 led by PO3 Ugalino responded to a vehicular accident at P-8, Brgy. Ambago, Butuan City wherein one Yamaha DT, color white, without plate number and was driven by one Edjie Placeros y Bajan, 16 years old, single and a resident of Brgy 23, Holy Redeemer, Butuan City accidentally fell off the road. 

Initial investigation disclosed that while the said motorcycle was traveling along the Ambago road heading towards east direction, and upon reaching in front of Ilustre Store at the said barangay, the side stand of the said motorcycle accidentally hit the road, causing the said motorcycle to be out of balance and the driver fell off on the opposite direction of the road. 

Said driver sustained injuries on the different parts of his body and was brought to Agusan del Norte Provincial Hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival by the attending physician. Elements of BCPS 3 conducted follow investigation on the said incident. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

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Cebuano News: Opisyal sa Amerika mo-inagural sa PDEA Headquarters sa Butuan City

Ni Michael Imbo


BUTUAN CITY - Pormal nga ipahigayon ang inagurasyon sa bag-ong Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Regional Headquarters, karong adlawa (October 28, 2010) sa may alas 3:00 ang takna sa hapon, didto sa Libertad, ni’ng dakbayan.

Nasayran nga tambongan sa mga taga U.S Embassy ug U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) ang okasyon, nahibaloan nga gipundohan sa ahensya sa Amerika ang renovation sa PDEA Regional Headquarters building nga gitukod sa Butuan City.

Ang gitukod nga establisemento ang mag-operate sa administrative ug logistics nga operasyon sa PDEA dinhe sa Northern Mindanao.

Gilauman nga motambong sila si U.S. DEA Country Attache Robert Cash, Agusan del Norte 1st Dist., Butuan City ug Las Nieves Representative Jose “Joeboy” Aquino; PDEA Director General Dionisio Santiago; Butuan City Mayor Ferdinand Amante; Agusan del Norte Governor Erlpe John M. Amante ug Butuan Bishop Juan De Dios Pueblos.

Gipakusgan sa mga opisyal ang pakigbisog nga matagaan sa dakung pagtagad ang dakbayan nga malikay sa peligro ang kabataan gikan sa illegal nga droga. Himoon nga sentro ang dakbayan lakip na ang rehiyon sa Caraga nga dili malutsan sa droga. (PIA-Caraga)
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Cebuano News: 2 ka lalaki gipusil, 1 patay

Ni Michael Imbo

BUTUAN CITY - Nahilandig sa tambalanan ang usa ka lalaki kinsa gipusil sa iyang kabikil sa niaging adlaw (October 25, 2010) pasado alas 7:20 ang takna sa gabii, didto sa Purok 7, Sitio Kasana-ag, Barangay Guadalupe, Esperanza, Agusan del Sur.

Sa report nga gipadala sa PNP-13, ang biktima naila sa pangalan nga Allan Peligo Bertudazo, 26 anyos ug residente sa nasampit nga dapit.

Ang suspek gitudlo sa pangalan nga Donde Neri Sukatre, 49 anyos, minyo ug residente sa Purok 6, Sitio Kasana-ag, Barangay Guadalupe, sa maong lugar.

Sa nadawat nga report daling miresponde ang Esperanza Municipal Police Station kauban ang tropa sa Philippine Army (PA) hinungdan nga nadakpan ang suspek.
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Samtang ang biktima dali nga gidala sa Democrito O. Plaza Memorial Hospital sa Patin-ay alang sa medikasyon. Gitumbok sa kapulisan nga personal nga bikil ang motibo sa krimen.

Sa laing bahin, patay ang usa ka biktima nga naila sa pangalan nga Elizer Pedrozo Mation, 26 anyos, empleyado sa PHILSAGA Mining Corporation-didto sa Bayugan 3, San Francisco, Agusan del Sur, reisdente sa Barangay Kalaitan, Bayugan City.

Sa inisyal nga imbestigasyon sa kapulisan giasoy nga gipusil ang biktima pasado alas 10:00 ang takna sa gabii didto sa Sitio Tindugan, Barangay Ban-as, Lianga, Surigao del Sur.

Sumala sa taho, nag-atang ang biktima og sakyanan kon Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) sa dihang kalit nga giduol kini sa wala mailhing suspek og dayon gipusil gamit ang .38 kalibre sa armas.

Naigo ang biktima tumong sa dughan niini ug gilayon kining gidala sa tambalanan apan gideklara kining dead upon arrival sa mi-atiman nga doctor.

Human sa hitabo abtik nga nakasibat ang suspek padulong sa wala masayring direksyon. Ang kapulisan sa Lianga mihimo na sa pursuit operation alang sa pagsikop sa suspek. (PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2010

City COMELEC bares official result in 27 barangays

By: Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY (26 October) – As of 8:00 this morning, the City COMELEC here bared official and final result of 19 barangays or 31.39 percent of the city’s total number of barangays during yesterday’s Barangay and SK Synchronized Elections.

Of the 27 barangays, majority of the winners are the incumbent punong barangays, it was learned.

Following are the elected punong barangays: Brgy. Ampayon - Sammy Amante; Brgy. Ong Yiu – Leyson; Brgy. Obrero - Fernan B. Rivero; Brgy. San Ignacio – Galan; Brgy. Dumalagan – Ditchon; Brgy. Masao – Perez; Brgy. Pianing – Sumaylo; Brgy. Kinamlutan - Ilagor; Brgy. Imadejas – Aclan; Brgy. Bayanihan – Libarios; Brgy. Ambago – Monico Bustillo; Brgy. Dulag – Rosales; Brgy. Holy Redeemer – Laura F. Salcon; Brgy. Bading – Boholano; Brgy. J.P. Rizal – Lao; Brgy. Amparo – Cabudlan; Brgy. Baan Riverside - Jeremiah CafĆ©; Brgy. Anticala – Bao; Brgy. Mahogany – Padilla; Brgy. Tagabaca – Cantero; Brgy. Taguibo - Bianio; Brgy. Bugsukan – Galla; Brgy. Tiniwisan - Tabelon; Brgy. Sumilihon -Calo; Brgy. Tandang Sora – Iskol; Brgy. Taligaman – JaƱola; and Brgy. Villa Kanangga – Amigos.

As of press time, election canvass in other barangays continue to arrive at the City COMELEC Office. (PIA-Caraga)

 
Caraga has achieved a peaceful election, PNP says

By: Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY (26 October) – Following the Barangay and SK synchronized elections conducted yesterday, October 25 in the country, PNP Caraga Regional Director PCSupt Reynaldo Rafal said the whole region has achieved a peaceful and orderly elections.

Inspite of some election-related violence happened days before the conduct of the elections, “generally, the conduct of the elections in the whole region turns out to be successful and peaceful,” he said.

Further, Gen. Rafal said one of the factors of achieving such peaceful elections is the commitment and dedication of the police personnel regionwide in upholding peace and security as the people in the region casted their sacred votes to choose officials who will lead them in achieving development in their respective barangays.

Meanwhile, as of press time, election returns from other barangays continue to arrive at the city’s COMELEC Office here. (PIA-Caraga)


Butuan Mayor’s bro wins Ampayon brgy. chairman, vows for a better governance

By: Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY (26 October) – Mr. Sammy Amante, brother of Butuan City Mayor Ferdinand M. Amante, Jr. garnered landslide victory over his opponent as the new Punong Barangay of Barangay Ampayon here, the second barangay in the city who has the biggest number of registered voters during the May 10, 2010 national and local elections, next to Barangay Libertad.

In an interview with a local radio station here, the newly-elected Punong Barangay said one of the priority programs of his administration is to implement the “Pangkabuhayan sa Katawhan” (People’s Livelihood) “because this is needed by my constituents here in Ampayon,” he said.

Also, Amante assured the people of Ampayon of better governance, as he inherited the position from his brother who is now the city’s mayor. Further, Brgy. Capt. Amante extended his gratitude to the people of Ampayon for the support. 

“I would like to thank all the Ampayon people who supported me… I will do my best to fulfill what I have promised to make Ampayon a better barangay in Butuan City,” he said. (PIA-Caraga)


Winning peace in Camiguin

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - Another significant event transpired in Mindanao, Region X wherein the signing of Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for Internal Security Operations (ISO) Handover took place in the province of Camiguin last October 22, 2010.
The handover ceremony was a joint effort between the 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army and the local government units of Camiguin to provide for a transitional mechanism to clearly define the shift from lead and support roles, and vice versa, between and among the different agencies or stakeholders to finally eradicate insurgency problems.

The signing of the MOA was spearheaded by Major General Victor A Felix, Commander, 4thID, PA, and Hon. Jurdin Jesus M Romualdo, Governor of Camiguin together with other stakeholders and witnesses. 

Gov. Romualdo delivered his speech stating that the province of Camiguin is already peaceful and the insurgency in Region X is already diminishing. 

“What remains right now is the abusive acts of the New People’s Army (NPA) which defies the law” Gov. Romualdo added.

Lt.Gen. Raymundo Ferrer, Commander of Eastern Mindanao Command said, “The handover of ISO does not entail the withdrawal of our soldiers from this province.” 

“Instead, local chief executives, who are the focal persons in the multi-stakeholder convergence for peace and development, shall provide direction while the peace and order councils shall be responsible in synergizing efforts toward a common goal,” he added.

Recently the province of Misamis Oriental’s ISO responsibility was already “handed over” to its Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) last September 21, 2010.

Major Noli P Kanashiro, Spokesperson of 4ID said “The handover of the ISO signifies that the 4ID, PA and the government are already winning peace in the region because we won the hearts and minds of the majority of the populace.” (4th Infantry (Diamond) Division, Philippine Army/PIA-Caraga)


Battle casualties receive cash award

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – Maj. Gen. Victor A. Felix, Commander of 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army awarded a total amount of six hundred thousand pesos (P600,000) to six (6) battle casualties under his command on Wednesday, 25 of October 2010 at Camp Evangelista, Patag this city.
.At least Two Hundred Fifty Thousand Pesos (P250, 000) has been given to Mr. Manuel Onangay, father of the late Cafgu Active Auxiliary (CAA) Dominador Y. Onangay 23IB who was killed in action against local terrorists during the harassment of Zamboanguita Patrol Base stationed at San Fernando Bukidnon last 31 of March 2009.  

CAA Geraldo L. Marticion received an award in the amount of One Hundred Thousand Pesos (P100, 000) for sustaining a serious injury during the aggravation against more or less ten (10) Communist Terrorists believed to be members of Front Committee under the anonymous Commander NEMRC at Mararag Detachment, Mararag, Marihatag, Surigao del Sur, on 01 November 2008.

In line with that, Pfc Vincent T. Sarcenas who also experienced an encounter was awarded with an amount of One Hundred Thousand Pesos (P100, 000). 

Another Fifty Thousand Pesos (P50, 000) was honored to Pfc Roy T Galabo L. Marticion. The latter experienced an encounter and a land mining incident that has been perpetrated by approximately twenty five (25) CTs that makes him sustained major injury at the district of Sitio Kaguisukan/Manluy-a, Brgy Diatagon, Lianga, Surigao del Sur on 30 November 2007.  

While Fifty Thousand Pesos (P50, 000) from the Special Financial Assistance is awarded to Pfc Al B Salvana of this Command. Salvana sustained minor injury when he encountered Communist Terrorists of NEMRC at Brgy Bugak, Lingig, Surigao del Sur on 24 September 2008.

And from the Presidential Social Fund, the amount of Fifty Thousand Pesos (P50, 000) is tributed to Pfc. Ahmadrawas B. Abdula for sustaining minor injury when they encountered fifty (50) Lawless MILF groups at Ilihan, Brgy Kiazar, Tagoloan, Lanao del Norte last 02 December 2008.  

Major Noli P. Kanashiro, Spokesperson of 4ID said, “The 4ID, PA provides assistance and support for our soldiers to boost their morale especially to those who unselfishly offered ultimate sacrifice in the battle; and their heroic deeds shall always be recognized”. (4th Infantry (Diamond) Division, Philippine Army/PIA-Caraga)

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As world celebrates UN Day, Legarda commits to doing her part in achieving the MDGs, urges other RP leaders to do the same

Senator Loren Legarda today joins the world in celebrating the United Nations (UN) Day.

As part of her support to the advocacies and programs of the UN, Legarda reiterated her commitment to do her part in helping the Philippines achieve the eight Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) by the year 2015.

“I join the world in commemorating the United Nations Day, which, according to UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, is ‘a day when we must resolve to do more’. Indeed, we have to work harder because we have a gargantuan task—the achievement of the eight Millennium Development Goals,” Legarda said.

This year’s UN Day focuses on the MDGs, particularly on the global action plan adopted by the UN member states during the High-level Plenary Meeting of the General Assembly last month.

During the summit, the member states, including the Philippines, reaffirmed their commitment to promote the economic and social development of all peoples.

“We only have five years left before the 2015 deadline. We must exert all our efforts and resources to achieve the MDGs because these are the very same concerns of our people. I commit, that I will do everything in my power as a legislator and Asia Pacific Regional Champion for Disaster Risk Reduction to help realize these goals,” Legarda said.

The Senator has filed Senate Resolution 198, which calls for the review on the progress of the Philippines towards the achievement of the MDGs in comparison with the progress of other country-signatories.

Legarda, who was conferred the 2001 UN Environmental Program award for her significant contributions to environmental work, had also filed several bills that would help realize the MDGs, especially through disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation.

“I also call on our government to prioritize the fulfillment of the MDGs and integrate it in our national development planning efforts. Likewise, I enjoin my fellow legislators in both Houses of Congress and all national and local leaders to do their part in this great endeavor. We are in a race against time, but we can still catch up if all our efforts are focused on working on a clear, precise, accurate, and efficient plan of action towards the achievement of the eight MDGs,” Legarda stressed. (Office of Senator Loren Legarda/PIA-Caraga)
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Loren seeks immediate passage of bill qualifying media killing as a crime of murder

Senator Loren Legarda today pushed for the immediate passage of a proposed measure that seeks to qualify the killing of members of broadcast and print media in the performance of their duties as a crime of murder.

Legarda stressed the importance of the measure as she noted that the Philippines fell 34 notches in the world press freedom ranking primarily due to the Maguindanao massacre.

“The numerous cases of journalists and media practitioners killed in the line of duty have tarnished our country’s state of press freedom, supposedly one of the freest in the world,” Legarda said.

“Recently, the Reporters Without Borders released its 2010 World Press Freedom Index where we ranked 156th, a heavy fall from our previous record. We cannot sit idly by and watch our country, which is a democratic state, be branded as a nation where the media’s freedom is curtailed by silencing the messengers of news and seekers of truth,” she added.

The Reporters Without Borders ranks the state of press freedom of 178 countries. The 2010 rank of the Philippines is a sharp fall from its previous rank of 122nd in 2009.

The decline was attributed to the Maguindanao massacre in November 2009 when 57 people were killed, including 32 journalists.

In this regard, Legarda, who is a former journalist herself, said that she would push for the immediate passage of Senate Bill 1426, which seeks to amend Article 248 of the Revised Penal Code to qualify the killing of members of broadcast and print media in the performance of their duties as a crime of murder.

“We have to put a stop to the killing of journalists and media practitioners. This measure seeks to protect them while in the lawful exercise of their functions,” Legarda said. (Office of Senator Loren Legarda/PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Monday, Oct. 25, 2010

40 youths hidden in a beach resort in Agusan del Norte for the SK Elections, SB official confirmed

By: Robert E. Roperos

Buenavista, Agusan del Norte Sangguniang Bayan Member Victoria Nakila confirmed that around 40 youths were brought in a beach resort in Carmen, Agusan del Norte for the SK elections.

SB Nakila said that a candidate running for SK Chairman in Barangay 2 Poblacion, Agusan del Norte in the person of Cymatrex Atasan is responsible of hiding 30 to 40 youths and is believed to be released today to vote in the elections.

Nakila added, to ensure the victory of a certain candidate, more than half of the registered voters in the area will be gathered by certain candidates and will be released during the election day. (PIA-Caraga)

 
Candidates gathering and detaining voters may be filed kidnapping raps

By: Robert E. Roperos

Caraga COMELEC Regional Director Atty. Francisco Pone today said candidates gathering and detaining voters may be filed with kidnapping, following the report that a candidate in the SK Chairmanship position gathered and detained around 40 registered youth-voters in one of the beach resorts in Carmen, Agusan del Norte, to ensure his victory in today’s election.

The official said, what the said candidate is doing is a clear violation of the Omnibus Election Code and may be filed kidnapping for detaining persons.

Also, Pobe reminded those drivers whose vehicles were used to transport the voters to be cautious because they may also be filed with kidnapping case for being an accessory to the crime. (PIA-Caraga)

 
PNP-Agusan Norte conducts probe on alleged voters’ detention

By: Robert E. Roperos

Following the report involving a candidate in the SK chairmanship position allegedly gathered youth-voters and detained them in a beach resort in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte, PNP Agusan del Norte Provincial Director PSSupt Nestor M. Fajura said they have immediately conducted investigation regarding the matter.
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In a phone-patch interview this morning, the official said, upon receiving the report, they immediately conducted investigation yesterday and found out that “it’s positive that there were youths in the said resort,” he said. However, when the team asked them (youths), they said the group is just conducting recreational activities and that they were not forced by anybody to join the group.

However, Fajura enjoined the parents that if their children were detained by force, they may file appropriate complaints before the local authorities and the COMELEC, in general.

Meanwhile, Fajura said the voters’ turnout in Agusan del Norte as of press time is from moderate to heavy and the whole province turned out to be generally peaceful. (PIA-Caraga)


Surigao del Sur SB member shot dead 

By: Nida Grace B. Tranquilan

As per info received from Surigao del Sur Police Provincial Office this morning, Hon. Valentin Campos, SB member of San Miguel, Surigao del Sur was declared dead on arrival after in a shooting incident last night.

Report said, unidentified assailant shot the victim who was standing in front of the rice mill in Poblacion, San Miguel, Surigao del Sur at around 6:50 yesterday, October 24, 2010. PNP report revealed that motive still undetermined as of press time. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)

 
Agusan Sur is peaceful as precincts opens early today

By: David M. Suyao

Inspite of the liquor ban, many stores in Agusan del Sur still sell intoxicating wine. As a result, many were drunk which resulted to petty fist fights but as of reporting time, no serious election-related incidents were reported.

Vote-buying in the gold rich municipality of Rosario, reach up to P1,000, but regular amount that roam around ranges from P20 to P50. Overall situation provincewide is peaceful, and the weather is fair. (PIA-Agusan del Sur)

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Agusan Norte COMELEC still awaits for some ballots to arrive before 12 noon today

By: Jennifer P. Gaitano

In an interview with COMELEC-Agusan del Norte Provincial Election Supervisor and Caraga Assistant Regional Director Atty. Roland Edayan, the official said there are some precincts in the province lacks official ballots and has already informed COMELEC Central Office regarding the matter.

Atty. Edayan also said, if said ballots will not arrive before 12 noon today, voting time of the affected precincts will be extended until 5 p.m. 

Also, COMELEC will have to reset the precinct elections on the following day if ballots will not be delivered today. (PIA-Caraga)

  
Massive vote-buying in Surigao del Norte observed

By: Fryan E. Abkilan

Massive vote-buying also marred the Barangay and SK polls in Surigao del Norte. Reports reaching PIA showed that the going rate in a barangay in Surigao City was up to P500 per voter. 

A resident who requested anonymity said since Saturday, she received a total of P1,350.00. (PIA-Surigao del Norte)
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PNP Reg’l Safety College deploys 118 men to augment police officers in Surigao del Norte

By: Fryan E. Abkilan

Two platoons of augmentation force left Saturday, October 23 for deployment prior to the barangay and SK elections in Surigao del Norte.

Some 118 men from the PNP Regional Safety College were deployed to beef up the strength of police in the province. (PIA-Surigao del Norte)
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Ballots for San Agustin, Surigao del Sur misdelivered to El Salvador, Misamis Oriental

By: Nida Grace B. Tranquilan

Ms. Alma Acosta, Surigao del Sur Provincial Election Officer revealed today that the 3,752 ballots intended for San Agustin, Surigao del Sur were misdelivered to El Salvador, Misamis Oriental.

According to Acosta, the affected barangays in San Agustin will possibly reset their elections tomorrow (October 26) if said ballots will not be picked-up before 12 noon today in Butuan City.

Except for some barangays in San Agustin, all other municipalities in the province conducted the elections peacefully and orderly.
(PIA-Surigao del Sur)

 
4Ps beneficiaries will not be delisted, DSWD assures

By: Fryan E. Abkilan

Beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) in Surigao del Norte need not to worry of being delisted from the program if they don’t vote for certain candidates for the barangay and SK elections.

Reports reached DSWD said that some 4Ps beneficiaries were allegedly being threatened to be delisted by some municipal mayors. 

The local social welfare office in Surigao del Norte clarified that the 4Ps program is a national program being implemented by DSWD and not the local government units much less the barangays. (PIA-Surigao del Norte)
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MinDA Chair to visit Surigao del Sur on Oct. 26

By Nida Grace B. Tranquilan

Tandag, Surigao del Sur - Provincial Technical Working Group (PTWG) Chair & Executive Officer of Provincial Disaster Coordinating Council (PDCC) Mr. Junie Pimentel, bared that Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Chair & Sec. Luwalhati Antonino is set 2 visit Brgy. San Isidro, Lianga, Surigao del Sur on Tuesday, October 26, 2010 at 9:30am. 

The said barangay is a pilot area in Caraga and the lone recipient barangay in this province of Strengthening Response to Internal Displacement in Mindanao (stride-Mindanao) Mindanao.

Sec. Antonino will grace the turn-over ceremony of the accomplished projects of the StRIDE implemented under Act for PEACE (A4P) Programme, a GoP-UNDP aided by European Union. Surigao del Sur Gov. Johnny Pimentel will also assist Sec. Antonino during the turn-over. 

The four (4) major projects accomplished by StRIDE-Mindanao-A4P programme in coordination with the Local Government of Surigao del Sur are the following: Water Supply System (Level 2-Purok 1 & level 1 in Purok 5); Establishment of Botika ng Barangay; Construction of Safe Spaces for Children and; Construction of Barangay Health Station. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)


Cebuano News: 40 ka mga botante gidala sa beach resort 
 
Ni Michael Imbo

BUTUAN CITY - Gipangdala sa usa ka exclusive nga beach resort ang 40 ka mga botanteng batan-on para masiguro niini ang kadaugan sa ipahigayong Barangay ug Sanguniang Kabataan (SK) eleksyon 2010, didto sa Carmen, Agusan del Norte.

Gikumpirma ni Buenavista Agusan del Norte Sanguniang Bayan Member Victoria Nakila ang alegasyon nga ang 40 ka mga botanteng batan-on ang gidala sa usa ka beach resort.

Sa asoy ni SB Nakila usa ka Cymatrex Atasan ang responsable sa paghipos sa 30 hangtud 40 ka mga botante.

Nahibaloan nga si Atrasan midagan pagka SK Chairman didto sa Barangay 2, Poblacion, Agusan del Norte.

Gidugang ni Nakila nga gitapok sa batan-ong kandidato ang katunga sa rehistradong botante aron masiguro niini ang kadaugan pagka SK Chairman sa ilang barangay. (PIA-Caraga)
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Cebuano News: Kandidatong mi-detin sa mga botante mahimong kasohan og kidnapping-Atty. Pobe
 
Ni Michael Imbo

BUTUAN CITY - Gibutyag ni Caraga COMELEC Regional Director Atty. Francisco Pobe nga puydeng makasohan sa kidnapping ang kandidato nga mi-detin sa mga botante human nga nahibaloan ang taho nga dunay 40 ka botanteng gipangdala sa usa ka beach resort, dili pa lang dogay.

Sa pamahayag sa opisyal giklaro niini nga milapas sa Omnibus Election Code ug mahimo nga pasakaan sa kasong illegal detention ang kandidato pagka-SK Chairman.

Ang report nagtug-an nga base sa pamahayag ni Buenavista, Agusan del Norte SB Member Victoria Nakila nga dunay SK Chairman nga naila sa pangalan nga Cymatrex Atasan kinsa mauy gitudlong midagit sa 40 ka mga botante ug gidala kini didto sa usa ka beach resort.

Gipahimangnoan usab ni Atty. Pobe nga kadtong drayber sa sakyanan ug uban pang transportasyon nga maghakut sa botante ang apil nga kasuhan sa posibleng lakang lambigit sa insidente nga may kalabotan sa Barangay ug SK Eleksyon. (PIA-Caraga)

 
Cebuano News: Surigao del Sur SB Member, gibugha
 
Ni Michael Imbo

BUTUAN CITY - Nakalas ang kinabuhi sa usa ka Sanguniang Bayan Member kinsa gipatay sa wala mailhing armado sa miaging gabii.

Sa impormasyon nga nakutlo gikan sa Surigao del Sur Police Provincial Office, nasayran nga ang biktima naila sa pangalan nga Hon. Valentin Campos, SB member sa San Miguel, Surigao del Sur.

Giingon nga gipusil tumong sa ulo ang biktima gamit ang wala matino nga kalibre sa armas hinungdan sa hinanali niining kamatayon. Subay sa taho usa ka suspek kinsa nagtindog sa usa ka ricemill sa Poblacion, Surigao del Sur pasado alas 6:50 sa gabii niadtong (October 24, 2010) ang nakit-ang mitira sa biktima.

Base sa report human sa pagpamusil abtik nga nakasibat ang suspek sa wala matino nga direksyon. Ang San Miguel Municipal Police Station mihimo na sa tukmang lakang alang sa imbestigasyon kalabot sa nahitabo sanglit wala pay nasutang motibo lambigit sa krimen. (PIA-Caraga)
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Precincts in Butuan City closed at 3pm, starts counting of votes

By: Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY (25 October) – Around 3:00 p.m. today, majority of the precincts in Barangay Libertad, Butuan City have closed the votation and have started the canvassing of the votes. 

It was learned that during the May 2010 national and local elections, Barangay Libertad registered the most number of voters in Butuan City, followed by Brgy. Ampayon, Brgy. Obrero, and Brgy. San Vicente.

Meanwhile, in Agusan National High School, one of the biggest schools in Butuan City where precincts of three barangays of the city were housed have officially closed the votation and immediately conducted the counting of votes.
 
It was learned that as of 4:30 p.m. today, some candidates for SK chairmanship have already celebrated their victory inside the school campus. (PIA-Caraga)
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3, 900 ballots fail to arrive in some Caraga region towns, polls postponed 

BUTUAN CITY (October 25) – Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections on Monday were not held in some villages in Northeastern Mindanao region after they failed to receive some 3, 900 official ballots, region’s election official said. 

Lawyer Francisco Pobe, regional director of Caraga region Commission on Election (Comelec) said the affected polling places are 5 barangays in San Agustin town and 4 barangays in San Miguel town, both in Surigao del Sur province. 

The region’s Comelec director said the election of these affected areas will be reset on Wednesday (Oct. 27). 

“The delay of delivery of the official ballots in these areas was affected because the intended ballots were delivered to Region 10 (Northern Mindanao),” he said. 

“We must also consider the distance and terrain of these areas, that’s why we reset it the next day,” added Atty. Pobe. 

He also said those areas where start of voting has been delayed due to late arrival of official ballots will be extended up to 5 p.m. then to resume up to Tuesday. 

Comelec Resolution 9078, issued on October 24, this year stated that if election paraphernalia and other forms have not arrived by 12 noon election day at the polling centers, voting will be moved to Tuesday, October 26, or even on Wednesday, October 27. 

Meanwhile, Chief Supt. Reynaldo S. Rafal, regional director of Northeastern Mindanao Police Regional Office 13 (PRO 13) said all police contingent deployed in several polling places in the region will not vacate their respective areas until the election is finally completed. 

“They will not vacate their respective assigned areas until the election will be finished,” stressed Chief Supt. Rafal in an interview. (muc/PIA-Caraga)
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Bet for village councilman shot dead in Surigao del Sur 

CAMP RAFAEL C. RODRIGUEZ, Butuan City (October 25) – A candidate for barangay kagawad (village councilman) was gunned down hours before midnight Sunday inside his house in Lingig town, Surigao del Sur province. 

Chief Supt. Reynaldo S. Rafal, regional director of Northeastern Mindanao Police Regional Office 13 (PRO 13), identified the victim as Eduardo Tacder, 48, of Sitio Sayon, Barangay Mahayahay, Lingig town. 

Rafal said unidentified armed men barged into Tacder's house at about 9 p.m. Sunday and shot the victim in front of his family members. 

Tacder died while being treated at the Andres Soriano Doctors Hospital in Bislig for multiple gunshot wounds in various parts of the body, three hours after the shooting incident. 

Rafal said the gunmen fled to unknown areas aboard a maroon van. 

Lingig town is about 200 kilometers away from Butuan City, the region’s capital. 

Rafal, who just assumed the Caraga PNP chief post less than a month, ordered tightening of security measures Monday afternoon, saying he hoped the latest reported killing will be the last. 

Police were still determining the motive behind the slay. 

Tacder was the fifth victim of violence in Caraga Region in time for the Oct. 25 Barangay and SK elections. 

Hours before Tacder’s killing, San Miguel, Surigao del Sur councilor Valentin Morales Campos was shot dead infront of a warehouse of a ricemill in Poblacion San Miguel. 

An incumbent Bayogo barangay chairman and a number of companions, shot a man in the face last Oct. 22. in Barangay Bayogo, Madrid, Surigao del Sur. (muc and bs/PIA-Caraga)