PIA News Service - Saturday, Jan. 1, 2011

POLICE REPORTS

By PO2 Darlin Cabalinan-Migullas

Illegal possession of firearm

A laborer, Roel Mullot y Cerna, 32 years old, married and a resident of P-11, Brgy. Tabon, Bislig City, Suriga del Sur was apprehended by joint elements of Prosperidad Municipal Police Station (MPS) and 402nd Brigade, Philippine Army, while conducting checkpoint along the National Highway, P-6, Brgy. Poblacion, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur, around 4:20 in the afternoon of December 30, 2010.

Initial investigation revealed that the said suspect was riding a Honda Wave single motorcycle, color gray without plate number, driven by one Jonjon Avila, also a resident of same place heading towards Butuan City. Before approaching the said checkpoint, the driver suddenly stopped the said motorcycle and said suspect disembarked and ran which prompted the checkpoint personnel to chase and caught him.

Said suspect was caught in the act in possession of one (1) unit 357 revolver (Smith and Wesson) bearing serial number 162205 loaded with four (4) live ammunitions. Upon verification, suspect failed to present legal documents for possessing said firearm and ammunitions. Driver of said motorcycle immediately fled to unknown direction. Hot pursuit operation was being conducted by Prosperidad MPS against the said driver. Apprehended suspect is temporarily detained at said MPS for proper disposition. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Report on shooting incident

A small scale miner, Rosauro Botilla and his wife Alicia Botilla, housewife, both residents of Sitio Dagnasay, Brgy. Putting Bato, Cabadbaran, Agusan del Norte were shot and hacked by three (3) unidentified suspects, around 9:00 O’clock in the morning of December 30, 2010 at the above-mentioned place.

Initial investigation disclosed that while Rosauro Botilla was about to leave from their house going to their farm, said suspects wearing bonnets suddenly appear from the grassy portion besides their house, shot with the use of unknown caliber of firearm and hacked him to death.

During the incident, the victim’s wife Alicia Botilla was cooking at the kitchen, managed to ran when she heard gun burst but was chased by one of the suspects and hacked hitting her legs and face. Alicia was brought by her neighbors to Agusan del Norte Provincial Hospital for medical treatment.

Suspects fled to unknown direction after the incident. Elements of Cabadbaran MPS conducted follow up investigation for possible identification and apprehension of the said suspects. Motive is still to be determined. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Violation of R.A 7183 and SP Resolution 769-99

On December 30, 2010, elements of Vice Control section of Butuan City Police Station (BCPS) 1 led by SPO4 Demetrio Corvera Castolo Jr. conducted simultaneous operation against violators of R.A 7183 (An Act Regulating the Sale, Manufacture, Distribution and Use of Firecrackers and Other Pyrotechnic Devices) and SP Resolution 769-99 (Selling of Firecrackers and Pyrotechnics Outside of the Designated Area), which resulted to the confiscation of assorted firecrackers and pyrotechnics from the following persons: Lala Malik y Tago, 23 years old and a resident of Montilla Boulevard, Brgy. Ong Yiu, Butuan City with confiscated items amounting to P700.00; Julieta Mamognora y Pedrosa, 27 years old and a resident of Brgy. Ong Yiu, Butuan City, with confiscated items amounting to P500.00; Jamalia Mauntoc y Langka, legal age and a resident of Langihan Road, Butuan City with confiscated items amounting to P400.00; and Yaser Pandiin y Mendez, legal age and a resident of P-7, Brgy. Bading, Butuan City with confiscated items amounting to P2,000.00.

Said person were caught in the act, selling the assorted firecrackers and pyrotechnic at P. Burgos Street, G. Flores Avenue, Montilla Boulevard respectively, all of Butuan City. Confiscated item were brought to BCPS 1 for proper disposition. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Friday, December 31, 2010

Butuan chief exec steps up measures for dev’t in 2011

By: Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY (31 December) – City Mayor Ferdinand M. Amante Jr. on Thursday (December 30) presented measures and vowed to develop economic situation in the city in the coming year.

In his speech delivered by Vice Mayor Atty. Lawrence Lemuel H. Fortun during the 114th celebration of the martyrdom of the country’s national hero – Dr. Jose P. Rizal, the city’s chief executive emphasized that his administration will still focus on changing the city for the better, thus improving the economic condition of its constituents.

“Our culture may slowly change through the advancement of science and technology as well as the influence of media, but I believe it is in our blood as Filipinos to stay united and focused towards our goals for change to better Butuan and for the better Philippines,” Mayor Amante said.

Also, Amante enjoined the public to make a stand and be active in performing the duties and responsibilities for the country. “May we all be inspired to take our stand and be active in taking our duties and responsibilities for our country in nation building by inspiring and believing one another,” Amante said. (PIA-Caraga)


Mayor Amante pays tribute to nat’l hero

By: Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY (31 December) – In celebration of the 114th martyrdom of Dr. Jose P. Rizal, Mayor Ferdinand M. Amante pays tribute to the life’s works of the country’s national hero during the city’s commemoration on Thursday, December 30 at Rizal Park here.

Attended by employees of the local and regional government agencies based in Butuan City, the city’s chief executive reminded the public of the patriotism of Dr. Rizal which “kindles the consciousness of the Filipinos to defend for their rights and fight for freedom, believing that there is a bright future ahead.”

Mayor Amante also said that the celebration of Rizal’s martyrdom reminds the Filipino’s bravery and patriotism to their Motherland putting into their consciousness the nobility of his selflessness and putting first the interest of many lives over his own.

Further, the official said the sacrifice made by the Philippines’ national hero is for the Fiilipinos, to inspire and enable then to do more for the people and should not just be remembered but must be emulated.

Furthermore, Amante said all Filipinos should be proud for having Dr. Jose Rizal a part of the nation’s history. He even enjoined the youths to forever remember the good deeds and aspirations of the country’s national hero.

“Our National Hero is one of a kind, where many nations adore him and in fact, in some countries, statues of him were constructed to honor him, yet, many youths now slowly forget this noble man who offered himself for us… If others are proud of him, all the more for us! We can all be proud of this Great Malayan Race who fights for liberty through the power of pen and his ultimate sacrifice”, Amante said.

This year’s commemoration in Butuan City was spearheaded by the Department of Education (DepEd) Butuan City Division through the able leadership of Ms. Marilou H. Dedumo. (PIA-Caraga)


5.1 magnitude earthquake hits Siargao Island

By: Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY (31 December) – Hours before leaving the year 2010 and welcoming the year 2011, an earthquake of magnitude 5.1 occurred at 12:56 a.m. today and its location described as 09.98ºN, 126.40ºE - 33 kms. N 52° East of General Luna, Siargao Island.

According to PHILVOLCS, it recorded intensity 4 quake in San Isidro, Surigao del Norte while other parts in the Mindanao region also experienced quake of lesser magnitude.

Reports also revealed that the quake is tectonic in origin and the depth of focus is recorded at 5 kilometers (shallow).

PHIVOLCS also said that no damages were reported but the public is reminded that aftershocks are expected to occur. (PIA-Caraga)


DOH-Caraga posts 6 minor-victims of firecrackers regionwide

By: Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY (31 December) – Department of Health (DOH) Caraga recently confirmed six minor-victims of firecracker related incidents throughout the region.

According to report of DOH-Caraga, ages of said victims ranged from 6 to 15 years old.

DOH added, that victims were injured with piccolo, however they only sustained minor injuries and is already out of danger.

In an interview with Dr. Cesar Cassion of DOH-Caraga in one of the local radio stations here, the official said the health department is strongly campaigning for a zero casualty/injury but sad to say that number of victims nationwide is increasing as of press time.

Meanwhile, hospitals in the region are still in white code status which means that victims of firecracker-related incidents will be given medication priority. (PIA-Caraga)

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To ensure safety this new year’s eve
Butuan City Fire Station to post three fire trucks in the city

By: Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY (31 December) – Butuan City Fire Marshall Patricio Vasquez of Butuan City Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) today said they will be posting three fire trucks in three different areas in the city particularly in Brgy. Libertad, Langihan Road, and in South Montilla Boulevard as part of their preventive measure during the new year’s eve celebration tonight where Butuanons are expected to welcome year 2011 with street parties, discos, and the like.

However, Vasquez hoped that the people here must be cautious to avoid any untoward incidents especially fire-related. According to Vasquez, the people especially the children should also think of precautionary measures as they will be using firecrackers and any other pyrotechnic materials as a tradition of welcoming the New Year.

It can be recalled that during the previous years, fire blazed houses and properties in downtown Butuan hours before 12:00 midnight of December 31, leaving number of families homeless and some business establishments turned into ashes. (PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Thursday, Dec. 30, 2010

Surigao del Sur commemorates 114TH Rizal Day today

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Tandag, Surigao del Sur (December 30) – Despite heavy rain experienced today, the 114th Rizal Day celebration was successfully celebrated in this province early this morning.

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With this year’s theme: “Rizal: Haligi ng Bayan”, the simple commemoration started with a Holy Mass at 6:00 o’clock in the morning. After which, the short program was held in front of the Tandag Town Hall adjacent to Town Plaza where the monument of Martyrdom Hero, Dr. Jose Rizal is situated.

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The program started at around 7:15 in the morning with the raising of the Philippine Flag in Honor to the National hero followed with the 21 Gun Salute led by LTC Rene Cañete of 36 IB, PA.

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While on wreath laying, Vice Mayor Rosario Ninfa Dumagan II who is the acting Mayor led the activity participated by representative/s of all the offices; government, private, and NGOs.

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Also, students from Jacinto P. Elpa National High School (JPENHS) presented the “PAGSASADULA” of the Life and Works of Dr. Rizal that give more meaningful to the celebration, followed with the brief Reflection on the Life, Works and Writings of Dr. Jose P. Rizal given by Ms. Imelda Falcon, JPENHS Principal.

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Ms. Falcon on her message challenged the government officials, parents and professional sector. She cited on her brief reflection, that Rizal put premium on Education where the youth is the Hope of our Nation.

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Ms Falcon also said, “Not all great men are called heroes.” According to her, it is only befitting to the people who have exceptional qualities, who have done noble deeds and who lived with extreme sacrifice for the love of his country. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)


POLICE REPORTS
By PO2 Darlin Cabalinan-Migullas

Report on shooting incident

A Barangay CVO member, Javinto Apuyan y Castro, 41 years old, married and a resident of P-6, Brgy. Sta. Irene, Bayugan, Agusan del Sur was shot by an unidentified suspect using unknown caliber of firearm around 9:00 O’clock in the morning, December 28, 2010 at Sitio Mayosi, Barangay Claro Cortez of the said municipality.

Initial investigation conducted by elements of Bayugan Municipal Police Station (MPS) revealed that while the said victim was cutting a hardwood tree, the suspect suddenly appeared and shot the victim several times.

Victim sustained multiple gunshot wounds on the different parts of his body, which resulted to this death, while suspect fled to unknown direction after the incident. Elements of Began MPS are still conducting follow up investigation for possible identification and apprehension of the suspect. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Agusan del Sur cops arrest wanted person

On December 28, 2010 at around 1:00 O‘clock in the afternoon, elements of Esperanza Municipal Police Station (MPS) led by PO3 Daniel Gerodico arrested one Edgar Soriano y Dumaguing, 28 years old, single and a resident of Brgy. Tagbalili, Esperanza, Agusan del Sur.

Said person was arrested by virtue of Warrant of Arrest issued by Hon. Zenaida Placer, Executive Judge of RTC Branch 7, Bayugan 1, Agusan del Sur charged for the crime of Murder docketed under criminal case number 1696 with no recommended bail bond. Arrested person is now under the custody of the said MPS for proper disposition. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Illegal possession of firearm and ammunitions

Elements of 13th Regional Public Safety Batallion (RPSB) led by Police Inspector Josef Carlo Silang, while conducting checkpoint along the National Highway, Brgy. Libertad, Butuan City on December 29, 2010, around 3:00 O’clock in the afternoon, apprehended one Allan Alonsagay Balleta, of legal age, married and a resident of Catarman, Northern Samar for having caught in the act in possession of illegal firearm and ammunitions. Confiscated from his possession were one (1) unit caliber 45 pistol, Colt make with serial number 772528, one (1) unit magazine with seven (7) rounds of live ammunitions and one (1) unit KG 9 with one magazine.

Arrested suspect and confiscated items were brought to the Headquarters of 13 RPSB for proper disposition and a case for violation of R.A. 8294 is being prepared for filing in court against the said suspect. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Wednesday, Dec. 29, 2010

Butuan SP to pass, approve 2011 budget

By: Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY (29 December) – Acting Mayor and concurrent Vice Mayor Atty. Lawrence Lemuel Fortun on Wednesday, December 28, 2010 assured that the Sangguniang Panlungsod will pass and approve the 2011 Budget of the City Government.

In an interview with Vice Mayor Fortun, the official said that before the end of this year, said budget will be passed and approved.

“The Sangguniang Panlungsod, through Acting Vice-Mayor and concurrent Councilor Erwin Dano is trying their best so that our local budget will be approved before the first working day of January 2011 comes," Fortun said.

He also said, the council has already finalized the budget and is now set for approval. (PIA-Caraga)

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BCPO is ready vs possible crimes in the coming New Year, PNP official said

By: Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY (29 December) – Personnel of the Butuan City Police Office (BCPO) here are always on alert as the city is geared towards meeting the New Year peacefully.

This was the statement of BCPO Police Director Benson Leleng in an interview with Bombo Radyo Butuan on Tuesday, December 28, 2010.

According to Leleng, the men and women of PNP Butuan City is always on red alert to ensure that Butuanons will meet the New Year peacefully especially that the city only posted minor crimes during the celebration of Christmas last week. (PIA-Caraga)

Tagalong News: Presyo ng prutas sa Butuan City, halos dumoble ngayon

Ni: Robert E. Roperos

Biglang tumaas ang presyo ng mga prutas ngayon sa mga nangungunang fruit stands ditto sa Siyudad ng Butuan.

Sa ulat ni Bombo Steve Paican ng Bombo Radyo-Butuan, sinabi nito na halos dumoble ang presyo ng mga prutas kung ikukumpara nu’ng nakaraang linggo ito’y sa dahilang nalalapit na ang pagsalubong ng bagong taon. (PIA-Caraga)

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Tagalog News: Presyo ng gulay, karne, isda tumaas din ngayon

Ni: Robert E. Roperos

Hindi lang pala ang presyo ng prutas ang biglaang tumaas ngayon dito sa Butuan City.

Sa huling ulat ngayong umaga, Disyembre 29, 2010 ng mga field reporters ng Bombo Radyo Butuan, napag-alamang pati presyo ng gulay, karne, isda at iba pang mga pangunahing bilihin ay halos dumoble rin kung ikukumpara ang mga ito sa mga nagdaang araw.

Sa pakikipanayam sa isang negosyante dito, sinabi nito na tumaas din daw kasi ang presyo ng mga ito sa kanilang pinagkukunan. (PIA-Caraga)

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Surigao City joins nationwide Rizal Day rites

Surigao del Norte (December 30) - The City of Surigao will join the nationwide commemoration of the 114th death anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal, the country's national hero, in front of the city hall tomorrow, December 30.

This year's commemorative event carries the theme: "Rizal: Haligi ng Bayan.”

City Mayor Ernesto Matugas will lead the commemorative activities which will start at exactly 7 o’clock in the morning followed by the raising of provincial flag by Gov. Sol Matugas.

She will be assisted by Vice Gov. Arturo Carlos Egay, Jr. and the Honorable Members of Sangguniang Panlalawigan.

After which, the raising of the Philippine flag will then be conducted by the city and provincial officials.

Mayor Matugas, Gov. Matugas, 1st District Rep. Francisco Matugas and 2nd District Rep. Guillermo Romarate, Jr. are set to deliver their commemorative messages respectively.

Also, the 30th Infantry Battalion, 4th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army will execute a 21 gun salute at the Luneta Park. A wreath laying and floral offering will then be done by the national, provincial & city officials, department heads, chief of offices, representative of NGOs, socio-civic organizations and other groups.

The activity will close with a community singing of the “Pilipinas Kong Mahal and Ako ay Pilipino” to be led by the City Chorale Ensemble. (PIA-Surigao del Norte)

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POLICE REPORTS
By PO3 Philip Amer Posas Mazo

Report on stolen motorcycles

On December 28, 2010 around 4:40 dawn, Mr Irene Gecane Rosal reported to Butuan City Police Station 3 that his red single XRM motorcycle with no plate number yet (for registration) was stolen by unidentified suspect/s while parked just outside his residence at P-6 Brgy Bancasi, Butuan City.

Around 8:00 AM of the the same date, Miss Jinky Dumanon Lear also reported to Butuan City Police Station 3 that her red XRM single motorcycle with plate number 231 LQ was stolen while it was parked near her residence at P-3 Brgy. Libertad, Butuan City.

BCPS 3 has already sent flash alarm to the nearby PNP units for the possible recovery of the said motorcycles. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Report on shooting incident

A 35 year old Gold Panner Divino Napida Edroso was shot to death by unidentified gun men at P-4 Brgy Karaos, San Francisco, Agusan del Sur on December 27, 2010 around 3:00 o’clock dawn.

Initial investigation conducted by San Francisco MPS revealed that the victim sustained gun shot wounds at the right portion of his head which caused his instant death while the shooters immediately fled to unknown direction after the incident. Motive of the shooting is yet to be determined by San Francisco MPS. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

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Cebuano News: Pundo sa 2011 ipasa sa SP-Butua

Ni Michael Imbo

Butuan City - Gipaneguro ni Butuan City Vice Mayor Atty. Lawrence Lemuel Fortun nga ma-aprobahan sa Sanguniang Panlungsod ang pagpasa sa 2011 budget para sa city government, niadtong December 28, 2010.

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Sa pamahayag nga giluwatan ni Vice Mayor fortune kini nagkanayon nga sa dili pa matapos ang tuig ang nasampit nga punod kinahanglan nga mapasa ug ma-aprobahan.

“The Sangguniang Panlungsod, through Acting Vice-Mayor and concurrent Councilor Erwin Dano is trying their best so that our local budget will be approved before the first working day of January 2011 comes," saysay ni Fortun.

Gidugang sa opisyal nga pinal ng gihan-ay sa konseho ang maong pundo aron kini ma-aprobahan. (PIA-Caraga)


Cebuano News: Kapulisan sa Butuan nangandam alang sa pagsaulog sa bag-ong tuig 2011

Ni Michael Imbo

Butuan City - ang kapulisan sa Butuan City Police Office (BCPO) nitug-an nga alerto kini alang sa tanan nga mga posibleng mahitabo lakip na ang pagpakgang sa krimen aron luwas ang pagsaulog sa bag-ong tuig.

Sa pamahayag ni BCPO Police Director Benson Leleng iyang gibutyag nga ang personahe sa kapulisan anaa sa red alert aron mapaneguro niini ang kalinaw sa pagsugat sa bag-ong tuig sulod sa dakbayan sa Butuan.

Gibutyag niini nga adunay mga ginagmay nga kaso sulod sa dakbayan apan kontrolado kini sa ilang pwersa sa kapulisan ug gi-awhag usab niini ang katilingban nga kinahanglan ang kooperasyon aron paspas ang pag-responde sa tanang matang sa dautan. (PIA-Caraga)

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DSWD employs convergence framework for a more efficient delivery of social services

By Leah T. Quintana

BUTUAN CITY – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has employed a convergence framework for a more efficient delivery of social services.

Director Mercedita P. Jabagat of the Caraga social welfare told partners about the convergence framework during the social welfare and development (SWD) forum held here recently. She also said DSWD Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman has been doing a nationwide roadshow to promote the Department’s Convergence Framework.

This convergence framework, according to Jabagat, aims to maximize the impact of DSWD’s poverty reduction programs through an effective targeting system and a holistic community development approach. She said it also aims to empower poor families in marginalized communities by focusing on health and education needs, basic physical infrastructure and livelihood.

“This framework is also known as the Public Private Partnership (PPP) Pathway out of Poverty. It consists of the three (3) key programs of the Department which are: Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS), and Self-Employment Assistance – Kaunlaran (SEA-K),” explained Jabagat.

Jabagat added that with this three-pronged poverty reduction approach of the Department, the deprivation of poor families, especially their right to elementary education and to health, within the context of their right to development is addressed.

The first component aims to secure the chronic poor through protective social services. The DSWD extends social welfare services to the most vulnerable sectors of the poor. It also provides assistance for education and health services through the conditional cash transfer (CCT) program, also known as 4Ps. To complement the CCT, microfinance institutions enhance the capacities of the beneficiaries by means of financial literacy programs and increase their security levels through micro insurance and savings facilities. Private sector partners deliver these programs to the beneficiaries through Mutual Benefit Associations (MBAs).

The second component seeks to improve the financial access of the transitional poor through direct support to communities for local development. The key program that responds to the needs of the transitional poor is the community driven development (CDD), also known as KALAHI-CIDSS. As the 4Ps program provides assistance to poor households to avail of education and health services, the KALAHI-CIDSS program provides technical and financial assistance to communities for the construction of social infrastructure projects such as potable water systems, footpaths, bridges, roads, health facilities, day care centers and classrooms. KALAHI-CIDSS sub-projects ensure that the facilities for education and health services are in place. The role of the private sector in this aspect is for skills development, community building and capital augmentation through microfinance.

The third component supports the economically active poor through community driven enterprise development. The DSWD currently provides technical assistance and non-collateral, non-interest loans to the entrepreneurial poor as part of the Self-Employment Assistance – Kaunlaran (SEA-K) Program. The program enables the poor to have access to credit, increase their income, enhance socio-economic skills, and develop positive entrepreneurial values. To support this program, private sector partners complement government initiatives through assistance in the following areas: enterprise development, microfinance, business development services and market matching. (DSWD-13/PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Tuesday, Dec. 28, 2010

NPA anniversary a flop

The 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division has expressed less concern over the recent New Peoples Army (NPA) 42nd anniversary last Sunday, December 26 at Sitio Pong-on, Barangay Sto. Nino in San Agustin, Surigao del Sur.

According to Maj. Eugenio Julio C. Osias IV Commanding Officer of 4th Civil Military Operations (Masaligan) Battalion that the NPA has not come up with the desired number of attendees during the event. Of their expected 10,000, only less than 3,000 attendees were able to make it to the said event. The low turn-out of their expected personalities dampened the festive atmosphere of their celebration. It goes to show that they are now weaker and less influential than what they used to be several years ago. Most of the invited politicians did not even attend the event, except for a vice mayor and some brgy captains in the area.

Maj. Osias said that he is just wondering as to what the rebels are trying to celebrate, which was a far outcry from the reality. Maybe what they are celebrating is their successful extortion activities, killings, murders, human rights violations which are all making the lives of the people in Northern Mindanao harder. The anniversary would have been meaningful if only they will be able to prove that they had helped the communities and successfully made and improved the economic lives of the people. If they are really for the people's welfare then they should work hand in hand with the government's efforts for national unity. “We are sincerely inviting the CPP/NPA/NDF here in CARAGA Region to join the 4ID in our peace and development projects. These projects will surely benefit all our stakeholders.”

As to Jorge Madlos @ Ka Oris, he said that he will punish all the mining companies for destroying our environment and natural resources, but the fact is, the NPAs in this region are increasing the revolutionary taxes they are imposing to these investors. “They want more money to finance their armed struggle and this scheme is driving away business groups here in Mindanao,” Osias said.

Major General Victor A. Felix, Commander of the 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division said that they still believe in the primacy of the peace talks. He also encourages the CPP/NPA/NDF to stay in the negotiating table for the good of the people and the entire nation. “All the rebels are welcome to join the mainstream of the society, and we are very much committed to help them.” (4th Infantry (Diamond) Division, Philippine Army/PIA-Caraga)


Police denounce rebels threat attacks despite looming talks

Camp Rafael C Rodriguez, Libertad, Butuan City - Caraga Police Director PCSUPT REYNALDO SERRANO RAFAL, CEO VI denounced the recent action of the Communist rebels who threatened more attacks Sunday despite looming peace talks with the government, as they marked the insurgency's 42nd anniversary by defiantly marching with their weapons in a farming village in Surigao del Sur province.

Aside from targeting government forces, the rebels also threatened to step up attacks against mining companies, accusing them of destroying the environment and exploiting workers. Amid a Christmas cease-fire, the rebels reportedly marched brandishing M16 assault rifles and other weapons to celebrate the Dec. 26, 1968, founding of the underground Communist Party of the Philippines.

RD RAFAL said that the recent action of the rebels only proves that the NPA's obvious motive is to destabilize the government by spoiling the economic opportunities in the region and the country as a whole. The trademark of the rebels is sowing terror and doing atrocities, but still the Philippine National Police together with the Armed Forces of the Philippines in the region are on the top of the situation. While the government and other organizations are doing good projects and activities, the CPP/NPA would like to be remembered for terror and atrocities. This belies the claim of the CPP/NPA that they are pro-people and for peace.

All pólice units in the región were directed to refrain from initiating offensive police operations against New People’s Army in observance of the traditional Yuletide ceasefire with the local communist movement effective 12:01 AM of December 16, 2010 until 12:00 MN of January 3, 2011 following the agreement between the Chairman of the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) Peace Panel, Alexander Padilla with the NDF Chairman Luis Jalandoni for a Christmas Suspension of Military Operations (SOMO)/ Suspension of Police Operations (SOPO).
However, recognizing police units inherent right to self defense, Caraga Police Director PCSUPT REYNALDO SERRANO RAFAL, Ph.D, CEO VI said that all police units must remain on-guard and maintain a high state of readiness to respond to hostile actions by domestic threat groups. RD RAFAL clarified that the SOPO shall not cover normal law enforcement operations and shall be without prejudice to actions aimed at protecting the people and the communities, as well as the PNP troops and installations against insurgents/terrorist attacks that may take place during the SOPO period.

The PNP commends the heightened awareness on the part of the citizens for taking an active part in maintaining the peace and order of the region by being vigilant and courageous in cooperating with the law enforcers. (PCI Nelly Tabornal Villagarcia, PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

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On CPP-NPA 42nd Anniversary

Peace and order situation in Surigao del Sur under control, Army official says

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By: Nida Grace B. Tranquilan

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TANDAG, Surigao del Sur (28 December) – 401st Brigade Commander Col. Augusto Tolentino recently informed the public that members of the lawless CPP-NPA in this province were seen on December 26, 2010 bringing with them high-powered firearms, thus, violating the ceasefire agreement with the government.

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According to Col. Tolentino, the bandits were visible during the celebration of their 42nd anniversary held at Sitio Pong-on, Brgy. Sto. Niño, San Agustin, Surigao del Sur.

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Tolentino said, as per assessment, the event was attended by about 2,000 civilians, supporters and members of NPA coming from neighboring provinces of Agusan del Sur, Agusan del Norte and Surigao del Sur.

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Tolentino also said the civilian-supporters of Surigao del Sur is estimated at around 500, mostly coming from Brgy. Sto. Niño.

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This means that around 75% of the attendees were coming from the other two mentioned provinces.

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Inspite of these developments, peace and order situation in the province is still under control with the gallant leadership of Col. Tolentino and the active response of the military forces of the 401st Brigade, Philippine Army. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)

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POLICE REPORTS
By PO2 Darlin Cabalinan-Migullas

Report on shooting incident

Two (2) unidentified suspects riding in tandem on board a Honda XRM single motorcycle color red, without plate number, shot with the use of unknown caliber of short firearm a certain River Flores y Culantro, 24 years old, married, tricycle driver and a resident of P-13, Brgy. Poblacion, Bayugan, Agusan del Sur, around 6:00 O’clock in the evening, December 26, 2010 at P-4, of the said place. 

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Victim sustained one gunshot wound on his left check and was brought to New Bayugan Medical Hospital for medical treatment and later evacuated to DOP Memorial Hospital, Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur for further medication. 

Investigation disclosed that while the said victim was driving his tricycle and as he stopped to unload the chairs, said suspects suddenly appear from behind and without apparent reason shot the victim and immediately fled after the incident. Bayugan MPS is still conducting follow up investigation for possible identification and apprehension of the said suspects.

On the other hand, around 12:00 O’clock midnight of December 26, 2010 at P-2, Brgy. Guinabsan, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte, one Junel Tejamo y Ambongan, 20 years old, single and a resident of Sitio Lomboyan, of the said Barangay, was shot with a home made shotgun (sumpak) by the suspect, identified as one Richel Bonote y Papelleras, 28 years old, single and a resident of same place. 

Investigation disclosed that prior to the incident, victim with two other companions were having a conversation inside a certain store at the said place, when the said suspect suddenly entered and without apparent reason shot the victim hitting his right wrist and immediately fled towards unknown direction after the incident, while the victim was brought to Agusan del Norte Provincial Hospital for medical treatment. Brgy. Captain of the said place recovered one (1) empty cartridge of shotgun at the crime scene and subsequently turned over to the responding personnel of Buenavista MPS. Motive of the said incident is personal grudge. Appropriate case is now being prepared for filing in court against the said suspect. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

Report on stabbing incident

On December 26, 2010 at around 1:00 O’clock in the morning, one Bimboy Sasu, 26 years old, single and a resident of Brgy. Maticdum, Tandag, Surigao del Sur was stabbed by one Gabriel Ordenario, 33 years old and a resident of same place using a sharp bladed weapon locally known as “Sundangay”. 

Initial investigation disclosed that the said victim armed with a sharp bladed weapon “Sundang” allegedly harassed the house of the suspect. Said suspect got irked, took his “sundangay” and stabbed the victim. Victim sustained three (3) stabbed wounds on the different parts of his body and was immediately brought to Adela Serra Ty Memorial Medical Center for medicakll treatment but was pronounced dead on arrival by the attending physician. 

Suspect voluntarily surrendered to Letecia M. Malalis, Barangay Captain of the said Barangay and subsequently turned-over to the responding elements of Tandag MPS for proper disposition. Motive-personal grudge. (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)
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Korean reported missing found dead in Siargao Island

Surigao del Norte (28 December) - Elements of Gen. Luna Municipal Police finally found the South Korean national reportedly missing in Siargao Island Thursday afternoon, December 24 after he went boating to an island in the area.

A progress report from the PNP Provincial Office said while the Investigation and Detective Management Officer of the province conducted a Sea Borne Patrol on December 23 along the waters of Guyam and Daku Islands purposely to search the Korean National identified as Kim Dae-Kyu, fisherman Prudencio Rodela and wife Gertrudes came and informed the police authorities that they have found a male body at the seashore of the same island.  

Police authorities confirmed that it was from Mr. Dae-Kyu. Subsequently, they immediately brought the subject to Siargao District Hospital for autopsy examination. 

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Reports revealed that the remains of the Korean national now lies at Nilo Funeral Homes at the town of Dapa.

It may be recalled that Mr. Dae-Kyu went missing during a boat trip off in Guyam Island Sunday, December 19.

Fisherman Bernard Ticod, owner of the boat, decided to follow Mr. Kyu when he failed to return the following day, but all he found was a boat floated on the water with no one onboard instead he found a wallet with ID, cap, cellophane with notebook, coins, and suicidal notes. (FEA, PIA-Surigao del Norte)