PIA News Service - Saturday, September 3, 2011

DOH strengthens Universal Health Care approach

by Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 3 (PIA) -- The Department of Health (DOH) Caraga Regional Office headed by Regional Director Leonita Gorgolon bared that DOH is strengthening its Universal Health Care approach for all Filipinos especially in Caraga.

This was learned during the recently held Regional Development Council – Social Development Committee (RDC-SDC) Meeting chaired by Dir. Gorgolon, where focal persons from the government agencies and representatives from the local government units attended.

According to Dr. Ceasar Cassion of DOH, the Universal Health Care is an approach that aims to address inequities in health outcomes by ensuring that all Filipinos, especially those belonging to the lowest two income quintiles have equitable access to quality health care.

With this approach, DOH looks into the six instruments which needs to be monitored – Health Financing; Policy Standards and Regulation; Health Information; Service Delivery; Health Human Resource; and Governance for Health.

“In Universal Health Care, DOH implements the three strategic thrusts: Improve financial risk protection through improvements in the National Health Insurance Program (NHIP) benefit delivery; Achieve health-related Millennium Development Goal – Max (MDG-Max) targets; and Improve access to quality health care facilities,” Cassion said.

Said thrusts are based on President Benigno Aquino III’s Health Agenda (Achieving Health Care for All Filipinos or Kalusugan Pangkalahatan): Rapid Expansion in NHIP enrollment and benefit delivery using national subsidies for the poorest families; Improved access to quality hospitals and health care facilities through accelerated upgrading of public health facilities; and Attainment of health related MDGs by applying all effort and resources in localities with high concentration of families unable to receive critical public health services (GIDA).

Cassion also said DOH is undergoing the following financial risk protection strategies: Increasing resources for health; sustaining membership in social health insurance for all Filipinos; Allocating resources according to most appropriate financing agent; Shifting to new provider payment mechanisms; and Securing fiscal autonomy of health facilities.

“To achieve the MDGmax, DOH is deploying Community Health Teams; Utilizing the life course approach in providing needed services to family planning, ante-natal care, delivery in health facilities, essential newborn and immediate postpartum care, and Garantisadong Pambata package for children 0-14 years of age,” emphasized Cassion.

With this, DOH targets to achieve an improved overall health status of Filipinos, reduced out of pocket expenditures, and an improved client satisfaction and responsiveness of the health system. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Bislig City to celebrate its 11th Charter Day; opens photo contest

by Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 3 (PIA) –- The city government of Bislig, Surigao del Sur led Mayor Librado Navarro will be celebrating its 11th Charter Day come September 14-15, 2011 and will be launching its 1st LIB’s Photo Contest.

According to Bislig City Information Officer Carlito Abar, the competition on photography welcomes professional photographers all over the Philippines. All photos must be of Bislig City’s tourist destinations identified by the organizers during the said dates.

On Sept. 14, participants of the photo contest will be taking pictures at the Tinuy-an Falls, Hinayacan Cave, and Baywalk while on Sept. 15, they are scheduled to take pictures at the Hagonoy Island.

“The interest of this contest focuses on images that showcase Bislig City’s one (1) major tourist spot and three (3) minor tourist destinations. We are inviting photography enthusiasts to join our “Photo Contest” for Bislig City, a rich city in ecological treasures… Come now and explore the beauty and wonder of Bislig City,” Abar said.

The contest is open to Filipino professional photographers, 18 years and above. While the contest is not limited to the number of participants, however, only the 1st Ten (10) participants, who are non Bislig residents who register first can avail of the “early birds” freebies of two (2) days free accommodation.

Abar also bared that interested participants are required to come and register on Sept. 14, 8:00am at the 3/F Kamayo Hall, Bislig City. Participants shall provide for their own equipment like camera, USB, CD, Laptop, and others. The organizer shall provide the transportation from Bislig City Hall to site/areas for pictorial as scheduled.

An Info Tech Personnel shall be assigned to gather and process the photo entries.

The guidelines of the photo contest are:

1) Photos must be taken by the participants from the natural landscape of identified tourist destination areas during the scheduled on-site pictorial only; 2) Only one picture entry per sight in each identified tourist destination areas/natural landscape shall be submitted by the participants every after pictorial session; 3) Only raw images are considered valid entry; 4) All photos should accurately reflect the subject matter and the scene as it appeared; 5) Post processing is strictly not allowed, adjustment of picture color alteration and sharpening through adobe photoshop or other photography enhancement software will automatically disqualify the entry; 6) Images that do not meet the requirements or deviates from the entry rules may or may not be judged at the judging panel’s sole dicretion; 7) Official entry must have a 300dpi/large format image size, no film-base camera; 8) Identifying marks, signs and address or other marking such as date or time stamps on the photo is not allowed; 9) No collages of photos; 10) The decision of the Board of Judges is final and irrevocable; and 11) All official entries (winning and non-winning) shall become the exclusive property of the organizer.

2) Criteria for judging are as follows: Originality – 10%; Photo Composition – 40%; Technical Excellence – 30%; Artistic Merit – 10%; and Overall Impact – 10%, a total of 100%.

First prize winner will receive Php 8,000.00; 2nd prize – Php 5,000.00; 3rd prize – Php 3,000.00 while consolation prizes will be given to seven winners amounting to Php 500.00 each. All winners will also receive certificates of recognition.

For more details or inquiries on the said event, interested party may contact Ms. Laine S. Elechicon, Admin. Officer of Bislig City Information Office at cellphone No.0949-1989277 . (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Beneficiaries say Pantawid Pamilya helps strengthen family relationship

by Stella Maris V. Barcelon

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 3 (PIA) -Beneficiaries of Pantawid Pamilya who guested in a local radio station recently shared how the program strengthened their family relationships.

In two separate occasions, the beneficiaries proudly revelaed what they have learned during their Family Development Sessions. “Dako og tabang ang programa sa amo, dili lang sa pinansyal nga bahin kay aduna man kami FDS o Family Development Sessions, diha among mas nakat-unan unsaon nga mahimo kaming mas maayo nga ginikanan sa among mga anak ug unsaon ang sakto nga pagdala sa pamilya (The program is a big help to us, not only in the financial aspect because we have this FDS where we learn how to become a more responsible parents to our children),” Remely Salazar said.

Another beneficiary, Rose Gregay also expressed that the grants they get from the program help their children get basic education.

Other beneficiaries who also shared the same experiences with Remely and Rose were Francisca Carbonila, Papias Josol, and Ligaya Casindac.

The radio guesting also became a venue in addressing and clarifying issues and concerns from the listeners through calls and texts.

Queries about inclusion and exclusion, varied amount received and other issues were answered by the Regional Program Coordinator Alma Patron; Regional Information Officer Leah T. Quintana; Information Officer Stella Maris V. Barcelon; Social Welfare Officer III for Agusan del Norte Hazel Castillo; and City Link Officer Leila Perez. (DSWD-13/PIA-Caraga)

DSWD-Caraga workers attend roll-out training on Social Marketing

by Stella Maris V. Barcelon

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 3 (PIA) -- The Pantawid Pamilya Municipal Link Officers (MLOs), SEA-K Project Development Officers (PDOs), and Convergence PDOs assigned in Agusan provinces attended the 3-day roll-out training on social case management held recently at Balanghai Hotel, this city.

The said activity was done to familiarize field workers on Social Welfare Indicator (SWI), a tool that will help them identify their client’s needs, which will be the basis for intervention planning. The activity also trained the field workers as case managers on how to establish relationships, assess complex problems, and select problem-solving interventions and help clients function effectively.

Part of the training was the participants’ exposure to the field to administer SWI in barangays Obrero and Doongan in Butuan City.

“The activity is very significant to us; it help us understand the interviewing process and shows us the different techniques to effectively conduct the SWI.” says Jay Tejada, Pantawid Pamilya MLO of San Luis, Agusan del Sur. A total number of 123 participants attended the activity.

Earlier, the workers assigned in Surigao provinces and Dinagat Islands also underwent the same training at Almont Beach Resort Hotel in Surigao City. In her message, Director Mercedita P. Jabagat emphasized that all workers must be knowledgeable about all the systems employed by the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program – Beneficiary Update System, Grievance Redress System, and Compliance Verification System.

Director Jabagat also encouraged the workers to be committed and competent in carrying out their responsibilities to be able to serve the people efficiently and effectively. (Social Marketing Unit, DSWD-13/PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Friday, September 2, 2011

Agusan del Sur bares strategy map, balanced score card for governance

by David M. Suyao

AGUSAN DEL SUR, Sept. 2 (PIA) -- The Provincial Government of Agusan del Sur (PGAS) presented a strategy map and balanced scorecard which will serve as guide for the province' governance to various sectors and offices for evaluation and appreciation.

According to provincial administrator Jesusimo Ronquillo, the consolidated SM-BS was prepared by the different division and department heads of the province after undergoing training with Prof. Edel Guiza of the Asian Institute of Management.

The balanced scorecard, according to Prof. Edel Guiza, is a strategic planning and management system used in business and industry, government and non-profit organizations worldwide.

As part of the workshop during the presentation, the national chiefs of offices were asked four questions to find out if they can align their functions with reducing poverty incidence in Agusan del Sur.

Butuan witnesses simultaneous opening ceremonies of big events in September

by Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 2 (PIA) -- Three big events are happening in the month of September led by different government agencies and to be participated by the government employees, non-government organizations, academe and private stakeholders.

On September 1, 2011, the celebration of the National Crime Prevention Week, National Filipino Family Week, and 111th Philippine Civil Service month simultaneously kicked off with the ‘Lakad Laban sa Krimen’ Fun Walk participated by employees from the government, and members from the non-government organizations.

Said Fun Walk started at 5:00am from Rizal Park going to the City Hall Grounds, where an ecumenical prayer and short program was held and followed by the ‘Hataw’ exercise.

In her message, Ms. Nerissa Murih of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga bared that the National Filipino Family Week is a special event for all Filipinos.

“With this celebration, we promote the Filipino values and Gender and Development (GAD) for all,” Murih said.

Murih also emphasized that with this year’s theme: “Kontra Krimen at Pro-GAD ang Pamilyang Pinoy,” we should all continue to serve our Pamilyang Pinoy and continue to impart the good values to our children.

Also, National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) Caraga Regional Director Atty. Remeneo Valenzuela stressed that the National Crime Prevention Week with this year’s them: “Pinoy Ako, Crime Prevention Misyon Ko! Knock Out Crime!” focuses on the importance of the youths as contributor in nation-building.

Meanwhile, Civil Service Commission (CSC) Agusan del Norte Provincial Dir. Mishach Dinhayan revealed that the 111th Philippine Civil Service Anniversary celebration with this year’s theme: Championing R.A.C.E. (Responsive, Accessible, Courteous, and Effective): Excellent Public Service at Full Speed,” is calling on all public servants to continue to make change in public service with President Benigno Aquino III’s mandate – ‘Sa Matuwid na Daan’.

The lead agencies of government have lined-up activities fro this month and are calling on to the public to support the government in this endeavor. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Government Internship Program extended

by Maria Rebecca Ayaton

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 2 (PIA) -- From a 2-month schedule, the Government Internship Program (GIP) spearheaded by the National Youth Commission (NYC) extended the training period to three months effective last July 2011 to intensify the youths’ preparation for future work.

Ms. Salma Jayne A. Tamano of NYC presented the updates of the GIP project during the 3rd Semester Caraga Regional Advisory Council (RAC) Meeting conducted recently at the Department of Education (DepEd) Caraga Regional Office.

It was learned that Interns will be exposed to mold their skills and knowledge in various areas and of basic office work such as writing, computer operation, interpersonal relation, work ethic, understanding of rules and regulation, and proper use of office equipment.

“The objective of the program is to encourage the youth to join public service. The program shall involve and acquaint interns with government programs and projects draw their support and understanding towards them”, said Tamano.

However, students who have previously availed the GIP program are no longer qualified to re-avail so that many people could benefit from the said program.(MRA/PIA-Caraga)

PDEA-Caraga intensifies efforts to drug prevention

by Maria Rebecca C. Ayaton

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 2 (PIA) --The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) said they are stepping up its drive against illegal drugs citing strides gained because of their operations.

This was revealed by Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Caraga OIC-Regional Director Joel Plaza in a press conference organized by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) in celebration of the National Police Commission’s (NAPOLCOM) 17th National Crime Prevention Week held Thursday, September 1 at City Interior and Local Government (CILG) office, Barangay Doongan, this city.

“For the first two quarters of 2011, PDEA has conducted a total of seventy-eight (78) operations. Out of these operations, 105 drug personalities were arrested, two eradication of Marijuana, and 132 drug cases were filed in court,” Plaza stressed.

Plaza added that drug trafficking incidents at Barangays San Ignacio and Ong Yiu have lessened due to their intensified efforts in making a drug-free city and their cooperation with the Philippine National Police (PNP) in implementing the Republic Act 9165 otherwise known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

Plaza further emphasized the importance of the community’s involvement in their operations by simply giving them information. “We are already making programs against drug trafficking and we are empowering the community because they have a big role to drug prevention.” (MRCA/PIA-Caraga)

Surigao City celebrates 41st Charter Day

by Susil Ragas

SURIGAO DEL NORTE, Sept. 2 (PIA) -- The city of Surigao unfolds another moment in history as it marks its charter day on August 31 with the theme “Onwards to Progress…Surigao”, 41 years after it became a chartered city under Republic Act No. 6134 approved on August 31, 1970.

This highly-significant event showcased the triumphs of the city government of Surigao in its efforts in governance.

At 4:00 in the morning, the diana, ringing of bells and sounding of sirens were conducted.

Bishop Antonieto Cabahug of the Cathedral Parish of San Nicolas de Tolentino, officiated the thanksgiving mass at the City Cathedral at 6:00 a.m. Followed by a flag-raising ceremonies led by Mayor Ernesto Matugas, Vice Mayor Danilo Menor, 2nd District Congressman Guillermo Romarate and 1st District Congressman Francisco Matugas in-front of the City Hall grounds.

As a fitting tribute to individuals and entities who have exemplified outstanding performance worthy of emulation in different fields, Mayor Ernesto Matugas awarded the certificate of recognition to Marine Engr. Jonelito Razona, a native of Surigao for his invaluable contribution to a law enforcement by the City PNP particularly in curbing Alcohol Impaired Driving through his donation of 2 units Alcomat Premium Breath Alcohol Tester (Breathtalyzer) an alcohol device used to detect blood alcohol content.

Float parade completion highlighted the celebration of the 41st charter day of Surigao City.

The winners are the following, first place went to Philipine Ports Authority; second place went to DepED Surigao City Division; 3rd place – province of Surigao del Norte. For Best Marching Cadets, first place went to Surigao State College of Technology (SSCT), second place went to Surigao Education Center (SEC), third place went to St. Jude Thaddeus Institute of Technology (SJTIT), fourth place went to Northeastern Mindanao Colleges (NEMCO) and fifth place went to St. Paul University Surigao (SPUS).

For Best Marching Band, SSCT got the first place, second place went to Surigao Norte National High School (SNNHS) and third place went to SEC. (SDR/PIA- Surigao del Norte)

P5-M fund for Nasipit public market ready for release

by Roselyn Gangca Exaure and Brian Jay Ceballos

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 2 (PIA) -- The P5-M fund support from the Provincial Government of Agusan del Norte for the repair of the Nasipit public market is ready for release as confirmed by Agusan del Norte incumbent Governor Erlpe John M. Amante recently.

According to Gov. Amante, he is only waiting for the resolution from the Sangguniang Panglungsod of Nasipit to formally request for the funds so that the funds can be released counterpart to the P5-M fund support also given by 2nd District Congresswoman Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba.

Gov. Amante assured that the funds will be released this year after the Sangguniang Bayan of Nasipit will pass the resolution. And either the province or the municipality will implement the project. (Agusan del Norte-PIO/PIA-Caraga)

Surigao Sur launches “JYes Kontra Droga” today

by Nida Grace B. Tranquilan

TANDAG CITY, Sept. 2 (PIA) - The 10 point agenda of the “JYes Kontra Droga” Program, a massive campaign on Anti-Illegal Drug in Surigao del Sur was unveiled this morning in Tandag City.

The event was led by Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council (PADAC) chair Gov. Johnny Pimentel along with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Dir. Gen USec Jose Gutierrez, Jr., and Ms. Alma Concepcion and witnessed by PADAC members, provincial government and national line agency employees, local chief executives, ABC President and SK Federation Presidents of 17 municipalities and two cities, students from Jacinto P Elpa National High School, Civil Society Organizations and religious organizations representatives.

Governor Pimentel in his message this morning, requested all local executives to activate and strengthen the Anti Drug Abuse Council from municipal level down to barangay level provincewide.

He added that the launching today is just a start of the program implementation aiming for Surigao del Sur province to be drug free in the next 2-3 years. (NGBT/PIA Surigao del Sur)

40 Caraga 4th to 6th class towns to receive P1M Performance Challenge Fund

by Noel B. Najarro

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 2 (PIA) -- Forty 4th to 6th class municipalities of Caraga Region will receive a P1,000,000.00 peso Performance Challenge Fund (PCF) for passing the Seal of Good Housekeeping (SGH) Program of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) for the Calendar Year 2011.

This was announced by DILG Regional Director Rene K. Burdeos during a press conference held Thursday, Sept. 1 at the CILG-Butuan Office, marking the start of the three celebrations this month which are the National Crime Prevention Week, National Filipino Family Week, and 111th Philippine Civil Service anniversary.

The forum was attended also by other top regional officials of some national agencies: Regional Director Joel Plaza (PDEA), Regional Director Remenio Valenzuela (NAPOLCOM), Regional Director Marilyn Pintor (CHR), City Dir. Romeo Solis (CILG), PSupt. Martin M. Gamba (PIO-PRO 13), JSInsp. Herman Paas and JInsp. Prospero Parnay, Jr (BJMP).

Dir. Burdeos said that this was a significant feat for Caraga region where all of its 4th to 6th municipalities has achieved the seal. “This is something that we can boast of, as Caraganons. While in the other regions only a number of their towns are making it to the award, all of our 4th to 6th class municipalities did it,” he said.

According to Dir. Burdeos, the program recognizes the local government units which had not received adverse or disclaimer opinions from the Commission on Audit (COA) on their financial statements of 2010. They also complied with the full disclosure policy budget, bids and awards which need to be published in conspicuous places, print media of community or general circulation and in the website.

The municipalities, according to Burdeos, can avail of the performance challenge fund, which is a support fund to finance local development initiatives aligned to priorities such as the attainment of the millennium development goals, local economic development or the adaptation to climate change and disaster preparedness.

The forty municipalities includes: Carmen, Kitcharao, Magallanes, Remedios T, Rumualdez, Santiago, and Tubay (all of Agusan del Norte); Basilisa, Dinagat, Libjo, Loreto, San Jose, and Tubajon (all of Dinagat Island Province); Alegria, Bacuag, Burgos, Dapa, Del Carmen, General Luna, Gigaquit, Mainit, Malimono, Pilar, Placer, San Benito, San Francisco, San Isidro, Sta. Monica, Sison, Socorro, Taganaan, and Tubod (all of Surigao del Norte); Bayabas, Cagwait, Carmen, Carascal, Cortes, Lanuza, Lianga, Madrid and San Agustin (all of Surigao del Sur). (PIA-Caraga)

SURSECO II electric coop keeps status quo on conversion proposal

by Greg Tataro, Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Sept. 2 (PIA) -- Surigao del Sur Electric Cooperative II (SUESECO II) has kept status qou on the proposed conversion issue following the convincing win in a recently concluded referendum last August 27.

SURSECO II General Manager Iglorio Hinayon confirmed that the “negative vote tallied 28,600 overwhelmingly subdued the “affirmative ones” that only an inched up to 883 in a bid to convert the said distribution utility to operate under Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) instead of National Electrification Administration (NEA).

Hinayon also reported over 51% voter turn-out at 29,483 from an estimated 57,000 voting member-consumers.

According to Hinayon, the issue on conversion to CDA stemmed from a letter to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan by
a group which identified themselves as KKK thereby prompting the board of directors of SURSECO II to pass a resolution to hold a referendum in order to get the true sentiment of the majority of the member-consumers. (Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Development blueprint for Capitol Business Park ready

by Roselyn Gangca Exaure and Brian Jay Ceballos

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 2 (PIA) -- The plans of developing the Capitol Business Park as one of the prime business hubs in Butuan City is moving as planned.

The blueprint for the said business park, according to Governor Erlpe John M. Amante, is due to be finished and it can accommodate any prospective business in any industry who wants to put up a business establishment in the business park as long as they would meet the guidelines provided.

For now, Governor Amante said that the people in charge of the developments of the park are still studying the budget that will be used for the construction of the business park because the Provincial Government of Agusan del Norte is also preoccupied and tied with the transfer of the new Capitol Building to Sanghan, Cabadbaran City.

However, Gov. Amante reassured that if ever the funds won’t suffice for the business park, the plan can still be realized through joint ventures with businessmen who are interested to rent the whole business park. (Agusan del Norte-PIO/PIA-Caraga)

District Hospital of Agusan del Norte to be upgraded

by Roselyn Gangca Exaure/Brian Jay Ceballos

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 2 (PIA) -- Cabadbaran District Hospital is set to be upgraded as part of the priority programs of Agusan del Norte Governor Erlpe John M. Amante to improve the district hospitals in the province.

The Cabadbaran District Hospital (CDH) is set to add five (5) private rooms to their hospital to provide more options to the patients not to seek treatment from Butuan City anymore and instead stay in the said hospital for their convenience.

The new private rooms will be comparable to that of the private rooms of the big hospitals in Butuan City but will be more affordable.

According to the Governor, CDH is also planning to provide more offices to lure more doctors to work in the hospital. More doctors, especially the private doctors, would mean more options for the patients in Cabadbaran City and it will improve the capacity of the hospital to attend to patients especially in more critical moments.

Gov. Amante added that the funds for the said improvements for CDH are ready and this will serve as a pilot project to be implemented soon to other district and municipal hospitals of the province. (Agusan del Norte-PIO/PIA-Caraga)

Cebuano News: Aquino ipasiugda ang Pilipinas sa mga tigpamuhunan sa China sa iyang lima ka adlaw nga pagbisita

ni Susil Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Sept. 2 (PIA) -- Luyo sa pagpanday og maayong relasyon sa China , si Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III miingon nga ang iyang nasodnong pagbisita didto sa China mo mostra sa Pilipinas isip usa ka lugar sa pamuhunan sa mga negosyante didto human sa dagkong reporma sa mga sumbanan nga iyang gisugdan sa gobyerno.

“Bilang pangatlong pinakamalaking katuwang sa pakikipagkalakal ng Pilipinas, hindi po natin palalampasin ang pagkakataon na makipagpulong sa mga negosyante sa Tsina upang hikayatin pa silang mamuhunan sa ating bansa,” ang Pangulo miingon sa iyang pamahayag sa iyang pagbiya didto sa Ninoy Aquino International Airport Centennial Terminal 2 niadtong Martes sa gabii.

“Bibigyang-diin natin sa kanila na bukas at maaliwalas nang muli ang ating bayan sa patas na pagnenegosyo,” siya midugang.

Ang Pangulo miignon siya mo-imbetar sa mga negosyanteng Chinese sa pagbisita sa Pilipinas, human nga ubos sa iyang liderato ang klima sa negosyo sa nasod nabag-o gyod og dako ug ang nasod nahimong maabtik nga partisipante sa rehiyon sa Asia.

Ang gobyerno mihimo og mga dagkong reporma aron pagbalik sa kumpiyansa sa mga langyawng negosyante aron mobutang sa ilang puhunan sulod sa nasod, ang pangulo miingon.

“Asahan po ninyong sa patuloy at puspusan nating pagtatrabaho para sa pag-asenso ng nakakaraming Pilipino, marami pa tayong maipapasalubong sa inyong good news,” siya miingon.

“Bumabangon na po ang Pilipinas, buhay na buhay na ang kumpiyansa ng ating ekonomiya at mga mamamayan tungo sa tuloy-tuloy nating pag-asenso at pag-abot ng ating mga pangarap,” siya midugang.

Luyo sa pagpasiugda sa Pilipinas ngadto sa mga tigpamuhunan sa China, si Pangulong Aquino miingon ang kontrobersyal nga West Philiipine Sea isyu pagatukion uban si Chinese President Hu Jintao.

Ang Pangulo miingon nga siya ug si Pangulong Hu Jintao mosaksi sa pag pirma sa mga pipila ka mga gikasabotan nga makapakusog sa kooperasyon tali sa Pilipinas ug China sa trade, infrastructure, mass media ug culture.

Samtang atoa sa China, ang Pangulo miingon siya usab mobisita sa mga Filipino communities didto aron ipadayag ang iyang dakong pasalamat kanila alang sa ilang makanunayong sakripisyo alang sa kaayohan sa ilang mga Pamilya ug sa nasod.

Ang lima ka adlaw nga bisita sa Pangulo sa China maglakip sa pagbisita sa Beijing, Shanghai, ug Xiamen. Ang Pangulo mopauli sa nasod karong Sabado, Setyembre 3, 2011. (SDR/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Cebuano News: Gov. Amante naningkamot nga mas mapalamabo pa ang lalawigan sa Agusan del Norte

ni Roselyn Gangca Exaure

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 2 (PIA) -- Daku ang paningkamot ni Agusan del Norte Gov. Erlpe John M. Amante nga mas mapalambo pa ang lalawigan sa Agusan del Norte, labi na sa natad sa ekonomikanhong kahimtang.

Gibutyag ni Gov. Amante nga usa sa iyang gihingusgan karon mao ang Co-Management Project sa LASBUENASCAR, kon diin mas labaw matud pa nga makabenepisyo niini ang mga residente sa upat ka mga lungsod nga mao ang Las Nieves, Buenavista, Nasipit ug Carmen.

Gipasabot pa ni Gov. Amante nga kon magmalampuson ang co-management project sa LASBUENASCAR, usa matud pa kini ka dakung kalampusan sa maong luna, kon diin kaniadto matawag kini nga none productive area, problematic area and high in poverty incidents, mamahimo na matud pa kini nga the most productive area sa tibook lalawigan sa Agusan del Norte. (Agusan del Norte-PIO/PIA-Caraga)

Cebuano News: Cong. Matba nag-awhag sa katawhang Butuanon

ni Roselyn Gangca Exaure

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 2 (PIA) -- Giawhag ni Agusan del Norte 2nd District Congresswoman Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba ang katawhang Butuanon nga suportahan ang kasamtangang administrasyon ubos sa pagdumala ni Butuan City Mayor Dr. Ferdinand M. Amante Jr.

Sumala pa ni Cong. Matba nga dili pod sayon ang pagpangatungdanan o ang governance sa lokalidad sama usab sa pagdumala ni pangulong Benigno Aquino III sa nasud nga ubay-ubay usab ang mga gisagubang nga mga problema.

Alayon niini nanghinaut na lamang si Cong. Matba nga malabang ni Mayor Ferdinand Amante Jr ang mga nagkadaiyang problema sa dakbayan sulod sa iyang administrasyon uban ang paghatag ug dakung suporta sa katawhan pinaagi sa ilang mga pag-ampo aron magmalampuson ang mga programa ug mga proyekto nga gipatuman niini.

Nanghinaut usab si Cong. Matba sa kasamtangang administrayon sa dakbayan sa Butuan nga maserbisyuhan pag-ayo ang katawhang Butuanon. (Agusan del Norte-PIO/PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Thursday, September 1, 2011

German Parliament visits Esperanza to learn political, special and economic situation

By: David M. Suyao

AGUSAN DEL SUR, Sept. 1 (PIA) - Six members of the German Bundestag (Parliament) on economic cooperation and development visit the town of Esperanza recently in order to learn more about the political, social and economic situation of the area as well as the on-going efforts of the Philippine-German Development Cooperation.

Led by Ms. Dagmar Wohrl, Chairwoman of the Committee on Economic Cooperation and Development, the group proceeded to Esperanza and supposedly proceed to Barangay Remedios to visit and evaluate two projects implemented with the support of the German organizations but opted to stay in Esperanza municipal hall and proceeded to the Roman Catholic Church of the same town to have dialogue with Agusan del Sur Gov. Adolph Edward Plaza, Esperanza Mayor Nida Manpatilan and the recipients of the projects implemented in Barangay Remedios who are waiting at the Roman Catholic Church.

Gov. Adolph Edward Plaza lay down the efforts of the provincial government in the process of titling the ancestral domain claims of the indigenous peoples (IPs) in Esperanza and all over Agusan del Sur with the aim to protect the culture, tradition and the rights of the IPs over the areas that they dwell since the time of their ancestors. “In fact, we have conducted several consultations and meetings in order that the process will be fully understood by our IPs brothers and sisters so that the areas will be fairly identified and delineated and the process will be smooth and legal,” Gov. Plaza said.

On the other hand, Esperanza Mayor Nida Manpatilan said, the Higaonon tribe of Esperanza have been very cooperative in processing the Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title knowing that the local government have been doing their part in realizing their dreams.

“What our people want is the protection of their rights over the area where they live. As natives of the place, they get their food and other needs in their respective areas, while protecting the environment for the future of their younger generations. We, in the municipal government have been closely working with the provincial government because we have the same outlook for the plight of our IPs,” Mayor Manpatilan said.

Gov. Plaza took the advantage of presenting the issues and problems confronting the process of the CADT, hoping the German delegation could extend any assistance for the speedy issuance of the CADT.

Later at the Roman Catholic Church, Fr. Carlito Clase, founder of Mary Mediatrix of All Grace Foundation presented to the German delegation their partnership with German financing institution called MISERIOR, who provided support of the project dubbed as Poverty Alleviation through Good Governance, livelihood, Agroforestry for the Unity of the Marginalized sector, which also stand for the PAGLAUM project. Fr. Clase, with some tribal leaders, presented their accomplishments on food security, land security, health security, education, natural resources, gender and organizational core values.

The German delegation left the town of Esperanza around 8:00 in the evening, leaving the people of Esperanza hopeful for more assistance the German government could extend especially to the IPs. (PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Hinatuan, a show case municipality in Surigao del Sur – DSWD

By: Nida Grace B. Tranquilan

SURIGAO DEL SUR, Sept. 1 (PIA) – Hinatuan is considered a “show case” municipality of Surigao del Sur where the three core programs of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) was successfully implemented thru the support of the Local Government Unit.

The DSWD field workers revealed during their regular meeting recently held with the Social Welfare and Development (SWAD) team and convergence team in one of the local venues of the Cleanest and Greenest municipality of Surigao del Sur - Hinatuan.
The project was funded by the national government that technically supported by the local government during its implementation.

According to Gloria Lumanzo, SWAD Team leader, the three core programs of DSWD implemented in Hinatuan that are presently being monitored are: the Self-Employment Assistance-Kaunlaran (SEA-K) Program (formerly 4Ps), and the new term used now is the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT); and the Makamasang Tugon.

Meanwhile, Ms Miraflor Cabigon, CCT program Provincial Link revealed that there are 32,000 CCT/4Ps recipients in Surigao del Sur from 17 municipalities and including Tandag City.

It can be recalled that the municipalities of Lingig, Tagbina, Marihatag and San Miguel are the pioneering of the 4Ps/CCT program implementation under phase 1 that was started on 2008 until 2013. (NGBT/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

PDEA USec Gutierrez set to visit Tandag City

By: Nida Grace B. Tranquilan

TANDAG CITY, Sept. 1 (PIA) – Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Director General USEC Jose Gutierrez, Jr., is set to visit Tandag City to grace the prestigious event as Guest Speaker during the launching of the “JYes Kontra Droga” on Friday, September 2, 2011.

The launching program of a massive campaign on Anti-Illegal Drugs is spearheaded by the provincial government thru the Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council (PADAC) chaired by Governor Johnny Pimentel which is aimed at achieving a Drug-Free province in Surigao del Sur.

A thanksgiving Mass at San Nicolas de Tolentino Cathedral will start at 6:00am, followed by a motorcade that will signal the start of the “Big Bang” event of the province with the unveiling of the “JYes Kontra Droga” or the content of JYes (10) point agenda to the public.

Meanwhile, Ms. Alma Concepcion, a beauty queen and actress will also share her testimony message about her experience on illegal drugs.(NGBT/PIA- Surigao del Sur)

“JYES Kontra Droga” is set to be launched in Tandag City

By: Nida Grace B. Tranquilan

TANDAG CITY, Sept. 1 (PIA) –The Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council (PADAC) members chaired by Surigao del Sur Governor Johnny Pimentel is set to launch the massive Anti-Drug campaign program dubbed as “JYes (Johnny-Yes) Kontra Droga” on Friday, September 2 here.

With the theme: “Maghiusa Kita Kontra Droga. Get Involved, Act Now,” the PADAC members from the different national government agencies, non-government organizations including religious sectors and the Civil Society Organizations (CSO) during the preparations had suggested several programs to come-up into a JYes (10) Point agenda for implementation.

PADAC members are divided into three committees according to the agencies’ functions and members’ expertise that could help a lot during the program implementation on Prevention, Intervention and Integration.

Relative to this, DILG Provincial Dir. Pedrito Alacaba had already sent earlier a memorandum addressed to the local chief executives from 17 municipalities and two cities, Punong Barangays, and SK Federation Presidents to enjoin and to extend their support for the success of the said undertaking through intensifying drug awareness and prevention activities in their respective localities starting this month of September 2011.

The undertaking aims for a Surigao del Sur Drug-Free province. (NGBT/PIA- Surigao del Sur)


DILG urges Punong Barangays to help identify and locate 17, 000 OFWs in strife-torn Syria

MANILA, Sept. 1 (PIA) – The Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo recently called on the support of all Punong Barangays (village chiefs) to help the government in the identification and search for some 17,000 Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and expatriates in Syria who could be endangered and may want to escape and be repatriated safely from the strife-torn Arab country to the Philippines.

The DILG chief issued the call in view of the escalating political unrest and human rights violations that has gripped Syria for the past five months, brought about by fierce infighting between government forces and pro-democracy groups in said country.

Robredo said that by seeking out the families and obtaining necessary details like names, contact numbers and exact whereabouts of their loved ones living or working in Syria, Punong Barangays could provide big help in the government’s efforts to hasten their evacuation and repatriation.

“We need the help of our Punong Barangays in identifying and locating the whereabouts of some 17,000 Filipino workers in Syria so that the government can promptly execute its contingency and evacuation plans,” he said.

In his directive, Robredo said Punong Barangays should submit the names, contact numbers and whereabouts of the Filipinos in Syria to the concerned DILG city/ municipal field officer, or to the National Barangay Operations Office (NBOO) not later than September 2, 2011.

He also urged the public to text the DILG hotline number 2299 using the following format: Type DILG //address in Syria/contact number in Syria> and send to 2299.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has raised the alert level for the entire country of Syria to 3 which means the voluntary repatriation of all Filipinos and expatriates with the Philippine government providing for the repatriation costs.

President Benigno S. Aquino III earlier said the evacuation of Filipinos in Syria was underway but it was unfortunate that only a few responded to the government’s call to leave due to the deteriorating human rights situation in the Middle Eastern nation.

Reports said there is an estimated 17,000 OFWs in Syria, 95 percent of them domestic workers, and a great number of whom are undocumented and willing to take the risks prevailing in the strife-torn country to maintain their employment.

“There are around 17,000 of our compatriots there and 95 percent of them are domestic helpers so the assumption is they don’t possess the ability as readily as professionals to take care of themselves,” the President said.

“Unfortunately, as I understood it, only a few accepted our offer to repatriate them from the beginning so I assume that most of them are still there,” he said, adding that the government would take other necessary steps to ensure that Filipinos would be taken care of in Syria. (DILG Public Affairs/PIA-Caraga)

Tagalog News: Panlalawigang tanggapan ng kalusugan, pinagkalooban ng mga parangal

By: David M. Suyao

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 1 (PIA) - Nakuha ng Agusan del Sur Provincial Health Office (PHO-AdS) ang matataas na mga parangal sa mga naidulot na serbisyong pangkalusugan at tamang pamamahala at ipinamahagi ang mga ito sa pamamagitan ng pagpapakita ng mga parangal na ito na iginawad ng mga nakakataas na opisyales galing sa regional at national na tanggapan ng Departamento para sa Kalusugan (DOH).

Noong Hulyo 28 ng kasalukuyang taon, tinanggap ni Dr. Joel Esparagoza, hepe ng pangkalusugang tanggapan ng lalawigan at ng D.O. Plaza Memorial Hospital ang pagkilala sa kanyang tanggapan na siyang may pinakamataas na naabot sa pagbakuna sa buong rehiyon ng Caraga sa Measles Rubella Supplemental Immunization Activity (MRSIA) para sa taong 2011 na may 98.12 porsyento. Bago ang pagkilalang iyon, ang Caraga Center for Health and Development ay kinilala muna na nangunguna sa buong bansa, at ang Agusan del Sur ay siyang may pinakamataas na naabot sa buong rehiyon. Pero bago nalaman ng lahat, ang PHO-AdS ay kinilala na na siyang may pinakamataas na parangal na iyan mula pa noong taong 2004 sa pamamagitan ng pagbibigay ng serbisyong pangkalusugan.

Isa pang parangal na inilahad ng PHO-AdS ay ang plake ng pagkilala ng kanilang mahusay na pamamahala ng pundo na kung tawagin ay revolving trust fund na sinimulan noong taong 2003 na kung tawagin ay local health system development fund o LHSD, na pinundohan ng inter-local health zone, ng Departamento ng Pangkalusugan (DOH) ng sector ng pangkalusugang reporma (HRS) at ng pangkalusugan tanggapan ng lalawigan na pinundohan ng pamahalaang probinsiyal.

Ang LSD ay nabuo sa pamamagitan ng District Health Board Resolution Blg. 01, serye ng 2002, na humiling ng limang miyembrong mga pamahalaang bayan para magbigay ng pundo para sa mga gamot at kagamitan ng mga miyembro ng Philhealth, kasama na ang tinatawag na medicare sa masa na na-hospital sa D.O. Plaza Memorial Hospital.

Ang naturang seed capital ay umabot sa P1.8 milyones kung saan P205,000 ang inabot ng peran ibinigay ng lokal na mga pamahalaang bayan, P100,000 ang galing sa Center for Health and Development share, P1 milyon ang galing sa HRS) at P500,000 galing sa pamahalaang probinsyal ng Agusan del Sur. Ang P500,000 ay kukunin galing sa kita ng hospital taon-taon pagkatapos magbigay ang pamahalaang probinsyal ng seed money.

Is pang parangal na natanggap ng PHO-AdS ay ang halagang P997,400 na ibinigay kay Dr. Esparagoza galing sa DOH-Caraga at ito ay para sa pagpa miyembro ng 1,629 na mga kapos palad na mga pamilya na kinilala sa pamamagitan ng Community-bawsed Managemnt System (CBMS). Kinilala rin DOH ang PHO-AdS na nangunguna sa Renal Disease implementers kasama ang mga lokal na pamahalaan.

Sa kasalukuyan, ang Agusan del Sur ay kinilala na siyang umabot ng universal coverage na kinakailangan ng Philhelath kung saan malaki ang nagawang tulong ng programang Philhealth Sabado. (PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Cebuano News: Lantawan Eco-Park usa sa mga gitutukan nga proyekto ni Mayor Montante

ni Roselyn Gangca Exaure

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 1 (PIA) -- Gibutyag ni Kitcharao Mayor Jenrey E. Montante nga usa sa iyang gihingusgan karon nga proyekto sulod sa iyang adminitrasyon, mao ang hingpit nga pagdevelop sa 48 hectares nga Lantawan Eco-Park nga nahimutang sa Little Baguio sa ilang lungsod, kon diin kabahin kini sa 477hectares nga Co- management Project.

Sumala pa ni Mayor Montante nga sulod sa maong luna ubay-ubay ang malantaw nga mga maanindot nga mga talan-awon sa mga torista, sama sa upat ka mga islets sa Lake Mainit, mga old trees nga nagpangidaron na ug 12 ka tuig lakip na ang tulo ka ektarya nga fine trees ug ang Regional Wild Life Rescue Center sa Department of Environment & Natural Resources (DENR) kon diin makita ang ubay-ubay nga mga endangered species.

Sa kasamtangan abli na alang sa publiko ang Lantawan Park kon kinsa kadtong buot nga molantaw niini, kon diin nagtoo si Mayor Montante nga hinay-hinay kini nga maila sa katawhan pinaagi sa molantaw niini isip mga information multifliers, ug wala pa kini nag-imposar ug entrance fee apan ila kini nga tun-an sa umaabot nga panahon kon ma-fully develop na gyud kini aron usab masustinihan ang operational expenses ug maintenance sa maong lugar.

Giklaro pa usab ni Mayor Montante nga mibisita na sa Lantawan Park ang mga kadagkuang opisyal sa Boracay Island ug sa Department of Tourism (DOT) National Office kon diin naglusad na sila ug sunod-sunod nga panagtigum alang sa pagdevelop sa maong Eco-Park.

Alayon niini nanghinaut na lamang si Mayor Montante nga matuman ang iyang tinguha nga madevelop pag-ayo ang Lantawan Eco-Park aron maila kini nga usa sa mga maanindot nga talan-awon dili lamang sa lalawigan sa Agusan del Norte kondi sa tibook nasud. (Agusan del Norte-PIO/PIA-Caraga)

Cebuano News: Mayor Montante mapasalamaton kang Gov. Amante ug Congresswoman Matba

ni Roselyn Gangca Exaure

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 1 (PIA) --Mapasalamaton si Kitcharao Mayor Jenrey E. Montante ngadto na nila ni Agusan del Norte Gov. Erlpe John M. Amante ug Agusan del Norte Congresswoman Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba, human kini nakadawat ug financial support.

Gibutyag ni Mayor Montante nga bag-ohay pa lamang niya nga nadawat ug karon nasulod na sa ilang trust fund ang P2M nga gitunol ni Gov. Amante ug mosunod na pod dayon ang P3M nga gitunol usab ni Congresswoman Matba, kon diin ang maong kantidad gamiton kini alang sa iyang bag-o nga Integrated Bus and Jeepney Terminal.

Sumala pa ni Mayor Montante nga kini nga proyekto ang usa sa iyang mga priority projects ug iya kini nga paningkamutan nga mahuman karong tuiga aron mamahimo kini nga operational sa sunod tuig.

Gawas sa Bus Terminal gi-renovate usab ni Mayor Montante ang ilang daan nga Gymnasium pinaagi sa ilang inisyatibo, aron padayon kini nga magamit sa ilang mga nagkadaiya nga mga kalihukan.

Alayon niini nanghinaut na lamang si Mayor Montante nga padayon gihapon nga mosuporta kaniya ang mga kadagkuang opiyal sa probinsya aron usab mapatuman ang iyang mga nakahan-ay nga mga proyekto ug programa alang sa mga katawhan sa lungsod sa Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte. (Agusan del Norte-PIO/PIA-Caraga)

Cebuano News: 48TH Araw ng Kitcharao, gisaulog

ni Roselyn Gangca Exaure

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 1 (PIA) -- Malampusong gisaulog bag-ohay pa lamang ang ang ika-48th nga kasumaran sa pagkamugna sa lungsod sa Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte.

Gibutyag ni Kitcharao Mayor Jenrey E. Montante nga namugna ang lungsod sa Kitcharao niadtong August 29, 1963 human kini nasipak isip barangay nga nahisakop sa lungsod sa Jabonga, kon diin si Mayor Montante ang ika-unom ug kasamtangan nga municipal mayor sa lungsod sa Kitcharao.

Gidugang pa ni Mayor Montante nga ang mga lumulopyo sa kitcharao gilangkuban kini sa mga Indigenous Peoples (IP’s), Waray, Bol-anon, Surigaonon ug Jabonganon.

Sumala pa ni Mayor Montante nga ang tema sa ilang kasaulugan karon mao ang “We Remember, We Celebrate, We Believe”, kon diin nagtoo si Mayor Montante nga angayan matud pa nga handurawon kon unsa man ang nangagi sa ilang lungsod kaniadto, uban ang paghatag ug pahalipay o pasalamat sa labaw nga makagagahom, inubanan sa pagtoo ug pagpaningkamot nga kon unsa man ang mga kaayuhan ug kalamboan nga naangkon sa lungsod sa Kitcharao madugangan pa kini uban sa pagtinabangay sa katawhan ug panalangin sa Ginoo.

Giklaro pa ni Mayor Montante nga ilang gisaulog ang ilang anibersaryo sulod sa kapin usa ka bulan pinaagi sa sunod-sunod nga mga kalingawan sama sa: Amateur Singing Contest, Basketball Tournament, Motocross ug uban pa, ug gitak-upan kini sa usa ka parade ug Barangay Night.

Alayon niini mapasalamaton si Mayor Jenrey E. Montante sa tanang mga misuporta sa ilang kalihukan labi na ang Provincial Government sa Agusan del Norte sa pagpanguna ni Gov. Erlpe John M. Amante ug ang Agusan del Norte 2nd Ditrict Congressional Office sa pagpanguna ni Congresswoman Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante Matba. (Agusan del Norte-PIO/PIA-Caraga)

Cebuano News: P5M nga pondo gikan sa prov’l gov’t alang sa Nasipit Public Market andam na nga i-release

ni Roselyn Gangca Exaure

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 1 (PIA) -- Andam na nga i-release sa Agusan del Norte Provincial Government ang P5M nga pondo isip suporta sa pag-repair sa Nasipit Public Market, kini ang giklaro ni Agusan del Norte Gov. Erlpe John M. Amante.

Sumala pa ni Gov. Amante nga iya na lamang nga gipaabot ang opisyal nga resolution gikan na sa Sanggunian Bayan sa lungsod sa Nasipit isip request, aron ma-release na ang maong kantidad isip counter-part usab sa gihatag nga P5M ni 2nd District Congresswoman Angel Amante Matba.

Gipasalig pa ni Gov. Amante nga ma-release gyud ang maong kantidad karong tuiga human makatunol ug resolution ang Sanggunian Bayan sa maong lungsod.

Gidugang pa ni Gov. Amante nga mamahimo usab nga ang probinsya ang mo-implementar sa maong proyekto o ang munisaipyo ba kaha, kon diin asa ang mas makadaginot ug pondo alang sa hingpit nga implementasyon sa maong proyekto. (Agusan del Norte-PIO/PIA-Caraga)

Cebuano News: Congresswoman Matba saludo sa sensiridad ni Pangulong Aquino

ni Roselyn Gangca Exaure

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 1 (PIA) -- Saludo si Agusan del Norte 2nd District Congresswoman Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante Matba, sa kasensiro sa pagserbisyo ni Pangulong Benigno Aquino III aron lamang matul-id ang pagserbisyo sa nasud.

Sumala pa ni Cong. Matba nga buot matud pa sa pangulong Aquino nga makabaton ang nasud ug usa ka matinud-anon ug ligdong nga pagserbisyo hinungdan nga iya kining gidayeg uban sa pag-ampo nga magmalampuson ang pangulong Aquino sa iyang mga pangandoy nga makabaton ug usa ka honest government.

Gidugang pa ni Cong. Matba nga wala matud pa siyay kakapas nga hukman ang presidente tungod kay bag-ohay paman usab kini nga nagserbisyo sa nasud, hinungdan nga nanghinaut na lamang kini nga matuman ang mga gipamahayag niini ug sa ipamahayag pa sa mga moabot nga mga State of The Nation Address (SONA) sulod sa unang unom ka tuig nga pagserbisyo niini sa nasud.

Alayon niini giawhag na lamang ni Cong. Matba ang katawhang Agusanon nga ubanan sa pag-ampo ang pangulo nga mamahimong malampuson kini sa iyang mga tinguha sa pagserbisyo sa katawhan sa nasud, tungod kay nagtoo ang kongresista nga ang kalampusan ubos sa renda sa panggamhanan ni Pangulong Aquino kalampusan man usab kini sa katawhan sa tibook nasud sa Pilipinas. (Agusan del Norte-PIO/PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Wednesday, August 31, 2011

'Bonok-Bonok sa Surigao' Trade Expo opens at Luneta

SURIGAO CITY, Aug. 31 (PIA) -- The Bonok-Bonok sa Surigao Trade Expo (BOSSTEX) is now open to public at Luneta Park along Borromeo Street, this city. The event will run from Aug. 26 to Sep. 15, 2011.

According to Sr. Tourisms Operations Officer Roselyn Armida Merlin the event is a joint project of the Surigao City Tourism Council, Surigao Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), & Departent of Trade & Industry (DTI).

BOSSTEX features Surigao products, delicacies and handicrafts from 28 exhibitors.

DTI Surigao del Norte Provincial Director Celestino Negapatan said during the opening and ribbon cutting of BOSSTEX last Aug. 26 that it is the first ever Trade Exhibition being mounted in Surigao City. The exhibit aims to provide micro-entrepreneurs an apt venue to promote and sell their products.

Surigao City Mayor Ernesto Matugas commended the organizers of the said marketing event.

Matugas is optimistic that the event would not only benefit the local consumers but the balikbayans, tourists and other out-of-town guests as well.

After a short program, the city mayor along with his wife and City Vice Mayor Danilo Menor led the opening & ribbon cutting of the differents booths in the trade fair. (PIA-Surigao del Norte)

PhilHealth-Caraga will implement the new payment mechanism

by: Maria Rebecca C. Ayaton

BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 31 (PIA) – The Philippine Health Insurance (PhilHealth) members will be implementing the new case rates starting September 1, 2011. This was announced recently by Dr. Eduardo S. Gonzales, Medical Officer VII of PhilHealth- Caraga during the Media Briefing on Case Rates Payment held at the PhilHealth- Caraga Regional Office, Capitol Road, this city.

The case rates are fixed amount of reimbursements given to the eligible PhilHealth members and their dependents based on the medical cases and surgical operations. New case payment scheme will apply specifically to the following medical conditions: Dengue I (P8,000), Dengue II (P16,000), Pneumonia I (P15,000), Pneumonia II (P32,000), Essential hypertension (P9,000), cerebral infarction (P28,000), cerebro-vascular accident (P38,000), acute gastroenteritis (P6,000), asthma (P9,000), typhoid fever (P14,000), and new born package (P1,750).

For surgical operations the following cases will be affected to the new case rate scheme such as radiotherapy (P3,000), hemodialysis (P4,000), maternity care package (P8,000), normal spontaneous delivery package (P8,000 for level 1 accredited hospitals and P6,500 for level 2-4 accredited hospitals), caesarian section (P19,000), appendectomy (P24,000), chlolecystectomy (P31,000), dilation and curettage (P11,000), thyroidectomy (P31,000), herniorrhaphy (P21,000), mastectomy (P22,000), hysterectomy (P30,000), and cataract surgery (P16,000).

“This new mechanism of payment is called ‘per case payment’“, said Gonzales. Medical conditions under the per case payment scheme is based from the most common medical and surgical conditions (49% of the total claims) reimbursed by PhilHealth.

Medical cases not mentioned above are not subject to the per case payment scheme of PhilHealth. Gonzales further said that the new case rate payment scheme was made to improve turn-around time for claims processing and payment, to have a lesser cost efficiency, and faster reimbursement.

Aside from the new payment scheme which will be effective this September 1, the No Balance Bill Policy (NBB) is also available to the patient-members.
Gonzales said that “the NBB policy shall mean that no other fees or expenses shall be charged or paid for by the patient-member above and beyond the packaged rates”. All the sponsored program (SP) members and other type of members and their dependents can avail the NBB policy in all accredited MCP (non-hospital) providers. (MRA/PIA-Caraga)


PNP IAS top official commends Police Regional Office 13

By: Noel B. Najarro

BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 31 (PIA) - A top official of the Philippine National Police Internal Affairs Service (IAS) who led a team of inspectors from Camp Crame Police national headquarters, in an interview Monday morning, commended the officers and personnel of the region for topping last years operational readiness, security inspection and test evaluation (ORSITE).

Police Chief Superintendent Alexander Roldan, the chief inspection and audit and also the overall leader of the eleven-member inspection team from IAS Crame and nine members coming from the RIAS, who conducted the annual general inspection-operational readiness, security inspection and test evaluation (AGI-ORSITE) said that PRO 13 had topped the scene of hostage-taking negotiation, the scene of crime operation, the close-quarter battle scene and the other aspects of operational readiness as rated according to the requirements of the police national headquarters.

CSupt.Roldan said that their rating of the Caraga regional police office was validated when two of its municipal police stations, the Lianga Municpal Police Station in Lianga, Surigao del Sur and Trento Municipal Police Station of Trento, Agusan del Sur repulsed communist rebel attackers who tried but failed to overran the said police stations on two separate occasions.

Roldan also disclosed that AGI-ORSITE which started Monday (August 29) and scheduled to end on Friday (September 2) will be conducted by the assigned members of his team and the augmentation from the regional internal affairs service (RIAS), from the regional headquarters down to the lower units. They will inspect the records and office management, the operational readiness which will include the discipline of the police officials and personnel.

The AGI-ORSITE according to the official “is a tool to make sure of their (police) capabilities, their assets management, logistical, administration and may include the state of morale of the uniformed and the non-uniformed police personnel.”

Roldan also said that their annual general inspection result last year had earned no less than the interest of the Philippine congress to know about the status of the PNP personnel nationwide. He said that last year annual inspection result and findings were documented and was made into book form of which congress was given a copy. Therein, they lawmakers saw the actual picture regarding the condition of the police particularly in the provinces.

Among the things they saw during their past inspections which should necessarily be addressed by the higher office, according to Roldan were the logistical requirements such as arms and ammunitions. Particularly here in Caraga region where insurgency is among the top concerns, he said.

Howbeit, he assured that every week they are sending their after activity reports to the Chief PNP together with their recommendations. They leave it up to him to direct the office concerned for appropriate action. (PIA-Caraga)

Brgy. Libertad’s version of “Discipline Zone” earn legislator’s nod

By: Noel B. Najarro

BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 31 (PIA) -The early implementation of its own version of a “Discipline Zone”, by Brgy. Libertad, which resulted to the decongestion of the pedestrian and the vehicular traffic along the portion of the National Highway fronting the Sto. Nino Shrine, the police regional headquarters until the T-junction of J.C. Aquino Ave.and Ambago Road, had earned the nod of Agusan del Norte 1st District Congressman (Butuan City-Las Nieves) Jose “Joboy” Aquino II.

Congressman Aquino was the guest of honor and speaker during the mass oath-taking of Purok and other sectoral officials of the barangay last Friday evening, held at the Barangay covered court. It also marked the opening salvo of the week-long celebration of the “Araw Hong Libertad” which will culminate on Saturday (September 3).

“I salute the barangay officials led by Brgy. Captain Vincent Rizal C. Rosario, and my constituents here for leading the city barangays in the early implementation of the ‘Discipline Zone’,” he said. The lawmaker noticed the cleanliness, the orderliness and the decongestion of the pedestrian and vehicular traffic on the aforementioned portion of the national highway, reaching up to the foot of the Libertad Bridge, which also served as the barangay’s school and commercial belt.

He said that he used to attend the early mass at the Sto. Nino Shrine every Sunday when he is in Butuan, and he observed the recent changes, cleanliness and orderliness at the said area.The barangay version of the “Discipline Zone” was jointly conceived by the barangay council of Libertad and the Butuan Police Station 3, led by PSupt. Manuel Jimenez. The program sought to implement the barangay ordinances of anti-jay walking, anti-illegal vending, anti-littering and other ordinances and the strictly.

Its full implementation started last July after a massive information drive, a month ahead of the city’s larger and expanded version which will soon be fully implemented in September.

Brgy. Capt. Rosario said that the program was implemented in anticipation of volume of traffic in view of the coming investments soon to be set up near the area. The official mentioned the forthcoming operation of the 10-million PNP-DOH Hospital and the planned building of the Bangko Sentral Ng Pilipinas (BSP) Branch there to mention some.

Aquino also said in his message that performing barangays such as Libertad will be on the top of his list in terms of giving out of projects to be funded by his priority development assistance fund (PDAF). He promised to complete the the barangay central elementary school covered court, the barangay’s health center and day care center.

He admonished the newly-sworn officers of the thirty-six puroks and other sectoral organizations to go beyond the realms of parties or politics. He mentioned that the recipients of his assistance out of his PDAF had crossed party lines.

He also thanked President Benigno S. Aquino III, and the speaker of the house of congress for he was not accordingly given a hard time with the release of his PDAF despite of him being in the opposite side of the political fence. (PIA-Caraga)

AGI-ORSITE Up at Butuan City Police Office

by: PSupt. Joseph B Boquiren

BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 31 (PIA) – The scheduled three-day Annual General Inspection on Operational Readiness, Security Inspection Test and Evaluation (AGI-ORSITE) starts on August 29 at Butuan City Police Office (BCPO) to test the overall readiness of the local PNP personnel.

Inspecting team from the PNP National Headquarters led by Police Chief Superintendent Alexander L Roldan arrived in Butuan City recently and went directly to the Police Regional Office 13 for the entrance briefing with the Regional Director, Police Chief Superintendent Reynaldo Serrano Rafal.

Police Superintendent Edgardo M Hernandez of the Internal Affairs Service, a leader of the team who will evaluate Butuan City Police Office together with its five police stations and one mobile unit has already started evaluating BCPO.

Also, Hernandez is expected to roam around the Butuan City starting August 30 and onwards to carry out evaluation of the performance of the police offices in the lower units. He has just finished evaluating BCPO headquarter offices and personnel the whole day of August 29.

The police station level will also undergo series of inspection and evaluation to show the readiness of the individual members and their respective offices.

These include rank inspection, office inspection, camp defense plan, fire drill, earthquake drill, hostage-taking negotiation, civil disturbance management, immediate action drill, conduct of checkpoint, and others. ( BCPO/PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Tuesday, August 30, 2011

Caraga consistently tops disposition of cases thru SENA

by Arnheim Ravelo

BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 30 (PIA) -- The figures in the national report on Single Entry Approach (SENA) showed that Caraga Region is number 1 in the overall performance posting a disposition rate of 100 percent and a settlement rate of 82 percent.

The Single Entry Approach Desk Officers (SEADOs) said this during the recently concluded 3-day SENA Follow-Through Training in Cagayan de Oro City.

Prior to the training proper, the Bureau of Labor Relations presented the performance of all regional offices and attached agencies. The result highlighting Caraga Region as number 1 both in the disposition and settlement rates made the Caraga contingents very proud.

The National Disposition Rate is 92 percent while DOLE-Caraga Disposition Rate is 100 percent. Thus, the National Settlement Rate is only 36 percent while the DOLE-Caraga Settlement Rate is 82 percent, which makes Caraga the number 1.

What made the accomplishment worth recognizing was the fact that there were no other regional offices that got almost the same or nearer disposition rate. Caraga SEADOs were accorded booming applause from the Mindanao SEADOs and SENA administrators and facilitators.

Special recognition was given to Ms. May Velonta, SEADO of the Agusan del Norte Field Office for having contributed 75% of the successful settlements in the region.

Director John Cañete congratulated Caraga but emphasized that this first semester accomplishment means a greater responsibility for the region since it should strive not to post lower disposition and settlement rate in the next months to come.

The region was encouraged to double its efforts to increase the present rates. (DOLE-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Surigaonon News: Organic Fertilizer Distribution nan syudad sa Surigao nagmalampuson

ni Annette Villaces

SURIGAO CITY, August 30 (PIA) -- Niadtong miaging adlaw sa may alas 2:00 nan hapon ang pagpan apud-apud sa gitawag nga Organic Fertilizer didto na sa Composting Facility and Vermiculture Center sa Canlanipa Homes, Barangay Canlanipa Surigao City.

Diin nahimong gipasidunggang bisita mao si Surigao City Mayor Ernesto T. Matugas, Dr. Bernardo Mora ang Executive Consultant sa Agriculture, lakip usab sa mingtambong ang mga opisyales ug residente sa lima ka Brgy. nan Aurora , Canlanipa, Manjagao, Punta Bilar, ug Balibayon.

Ang host sa maong programa mao ang opisina nan City Agriculture sa pagpanguyo ni Mr. Isaiias M. Elumba, ang City Agriculturist uban sa iyang mga staff.

Kini nga organic fertilizer gitawag ug Nutrients Intensifying Technological Organic Yield (NITOY) nga gihimo pinaagi na sa natural nga proseso gamit ang mga basura nga malata ug tae sa wate nga maoy kusog nga makapatambok sa yuta.

Kini nga programa gimugna aron sa pagtabang sa mga mag-uuma nga maka-angkon ug fertilizer sa ilang mga pananum dili lamang organic o natural kini libre usab nga ihatag kanila isip tabang nan syudad aron sila mahatagan ug dugang panginabuhian para sa pamilya nila.

Samtang si Mayor Matugas mingpahimangno usab sa mga nakadawat sa maong organic fertilizer nga kinahanglan may resulta gayud nga makita ang syudad sa tabang nga gitunol ngadto kanila tungod kay dili man kung syudad ang maka benipisyo niini kon dili ang mga mag-uuma ra mismo. (Surigao City PIO/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Cebuano News: 1st semester sa BIR-Caraga collection, nisaka og 5%

BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 30 (PIA) -- Gipasigarbo sa Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Caraga nga nisaka ang collection sa unang semester ning tuiga.

Segun ni Atty. Norberto Vitug, Regional Director sa BIR-Caraga, nakakolekta sila sa P1.27 bilyones pesos ning tuiga kansa mas taas kumpara sa P1.207 bilyones pesos sa nakalabay'ng tuig sa samang semester.

Dugang ni Atty. Vitug, nisaka sa 5 porsyento ang ilang koleksyon kun P61 milyones pesos.

Alayon niini, padayon ang ilang kampanya sa ingon makuha ang ilang target collection ning tuiga.

Nanawagan usab ang opisyal sa tanang konsumante nga mangayo og resibo sa mga negosyante sanglit mao kini ang ilang basehan sa pagkolekta sa buwis.

Ang makolektang buhis mabalik ra usab kini sa katawhan pinaagi sa mga ipatumang proyekto sa kagamhanan. (BR/PIA-Caraga)

Cebuano News: Wanted nga Korean national, nadakpan sa Butuan City

BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 30 (PIA) -- Na-turn over na sa Police Anti-Crime Emergency Response kon PACER-Visayas ang usa ka wanted nga Korean national human malampusong nasikop sa mga membro sa Butuan City Police Station 1 og human ang usa ka adlaw nga surveillance og on-site investigation kagahapon sa lugar nga iyang gipuy-an.

Ang suspek nga si Won Kyon Kim nga naila sa alyas nga “Harry Kim” dinhi sa Pilipinas, nag-atubang og kasong kidnap-for-ransom sa Visayas Region ug nagtago dinhi sa Butuan.
Sigon ni Station Commander P/Chief Insp. Reynante Sibayton, nadakpan siya pasado alas-dies kagahapon (Aug. 29) sa buntag sa iyang gipuy-an sa Rosewood Subdivision sa Brgy. Villakananga ning siyudad human gipindot sa ilang buhatan. (BR/PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Monday, August 29, 2011

City Peace and Order Council intensifies existing laws in Butuan

by Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 29 (PIA) -- Member-agencies from the government and private sectors convened recently for the regular City Peace and Order Council (CPOC) Meeting held at the City Mayor’s Conference Room 2, this city.

On behalf of City Mayor Ferdinand M. Amante, Jr, City Councilor Ryan Culima presided the meeting and accepted the accomplishments reports of the member-agencies which contributed to peace and order in the city.

PSupt Rolando P Cuya, Jr. of the Butuan City Police Office (BCPO) bared that their office continues to intensify its campaign against illegal drugs, illegal possession of firearms, illegal logging, illegal gambling, and other campaign against crime.

Cuya also revealed that they have conducted the 10-kilometer Run, Tree Planting Activity, Coastal Clean-up in Brgy. Masao, and Medical and Dental Mission. It was also learned that the PNP’s ‘Discipline Zone’ will be fully implemented on September 1, 2011.

Also, Culima stressed that the city government with the PNP will be strictly implementing the said ‘Discipline Zone’ on Sept. 1 while violators of the existing local ordinances in the city will be issued the ‘No Tolerance Ticket’ for them to pay the corresponding penalties of the violation.

“The public should be vigilant and responsible because when they will be caught violating these city ordinances, he or she shall face the consequences, even if the violator is an official or a high-ranked personality,” Culima said.

Meanwhile, Agent Myrian Balbada of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Caraga bared that until now, Shabu is the main drug of choice by the users and Marijuana second.

Agent Balbada further said that from July 1-31, 2011, PDEA has conducted 12 operations and arrested 18 persons while from Aug. 1-25, they conducted 15 operations and arrested 33 persons.

“From January to July 2011, there were 139 total of Drug Cases filed in Court with 206 total of the accused persons,” cited Balbada.

The council will convene again next month to assess and evaluate the extent of implementation of the local ordinances by the authorities and the obedience of the general public. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

PhilHealth-Caraga meets local tri-media in Butuan

by Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 29 (PIA) -- The Philippine Health Insurance (PhilHealth) Inc. headed by Regional Vice President Johnny Y. Sychua with other PhilHealth officials recently conducted a media briefing on PhilHealth, held recently at the PhilHealth-Caraga Regional Conference Room, this city.

Medical Specialist IV Dr. Grace S. Tanangkingsing of PhilHealth clarified that a patient does not need to be confined in a hospital for three (3) days for him/her to avail the healthcare services of PhilHealth.

“Only with basic 24 hours admission, a patient can already avail the benefits,” said Tanangkingsing.

Responding to a question on whether there will be an increase in premium rate, Sychua said, “Increasing the premium rate is not bad especially (considering that) for 11 years, PhilHealth has not increased the premium rate…Probably, there will be an increase but I can not tell you when,” stressed Sychua.

Sychua also encouraged the general public to immediately report to their office if they encounter a doctor who will require them to be confined in the hospital for three days so they can avail the healthcare services of PhilHealth because it has no truth. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

140 new Barangay Employment Service Offices established

By: Lilian Solis

BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 29 (PIA) - After the successful institutionalization of 62 Barangay Employment Service Offices (BESOs) in Surigao del Norte, an additional 140 new BESOs have been established in the Province of Agusan del Norte and in the cities of Butuan and Cabadbaran.

In an orientation on the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Programs and Projects intended for the barangays held recently at Almont Hotel’s Inland Resort, this city, 140 Barangay Captains finally signed commitment with the DOLE to establish an employment office in their barangays.

DOLE Asst. Regional Director Teresita Bonghanoy who signed the commitment in behalf of Regional Director Ofelia Domingo expressed her gratefulness for the wilful decision of the barangay officials to fully support the programs of DOLE particularly employment facilitation and the community based employment program.

The barangay captains brought some of their officials to the orientation making the total number of participants to 173. These officials are from different barangays in Butuan City, Cabadbaran City and municipalities of the Province of Agusan del Norte.

The orientation was purposely conducted to inform the barangays on their important role in the implementation of employment facilitation and livelihood programs by creating a BESO in their own locality which ultimately will help address the unemployment problems.

Marcos M. Quico, Provincial PESO of Surigao del Sur was one of the resource speakers during the above mentioned orientation. He clearly discussed the PESO Act of 1999 and the Circular No. 94-69 by the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) wherein all LGUs are mandated to establish operate and maintain Public Employment Service Office to ensure the prompt, timely and adequate delivery of employment facilitation services of the government to its constituents. Also part of his discussion was the livelihood program of DOLE that includes liquidation fund releases.

Meanwhile, Ms. Alale Frias, PESO Manager of Trento Agusan del Sur also served as resource speaker on Career and Employment Coaching and PESO best practices. She emphasized the important role of BESOs in giving employment coaching services to its constituents.

Topics on Labor Market Information and Skills Registry System as well as tips and guide on how to address illegal recruitment were also discussed by Ms. Lilian Solis of DOLE-ADN and Director Marieta Bellotindos of POEA. (DOLE-13/PIA-Caraga)

BLE conducts enhanced SRS technical workshop for Caraga

by Domz Nazario

BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 29 (PIA) - The Bureau of Local Employment (BLE) conducted a technical workshop on the enhanced version of the Skills Registry System (SRS) on August 25, 2011. The workshop was participated in by the focal persons from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Caraga field offices.

BLE is rolling out the upgraded version of the system to all the regions in preparation for the second-wave phase of the SRS project. The workshop is also intended to gather feedback from the users on how to further improve the system.

Mr. Apolo Montes of BLE presented the upgraded and third version of the offline system which now features the following modules and upgrades: No duplication of records; Report Generation for both Applicants and Establishment records per barangay; Print Option for both Applicants and Establishments per barangay; Save option and Export to Text File option (Export to Microsoft Excel will soon follow); The system now allows entry text entry for skills that are not in the default skills database; The system now allows entry text entry for schools/universities that are not in the default schools database; and Data entry is easier with auto display of choices.

Ms. Joy Bastareche, one of the participants suggested that a choice for underemployment option should be included since only employed and unemployed options are available for employment status of applicant. It was also suggested that an option for searching for applicants by skill should be added to the feature of the search module since this is a very common and mostly used criteria when searching for applicants. Mr. Montes said the module for that feature is being developed by the programmers of BLE and a patch for the system will be made available as soon as the module is completed. (DOLE-13/PIA-Caraga)

Cebuano News: RMN-dxBC, PRC, PIA ug sponsors nagkahiusa alang sa Bloodletting activity ug Medical, Dental Mission

ni Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 29 (PIA) -- Nagpahigayon ug bloodletting activity ang RMN-dxBC inubanan sa Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Agusan del Norte-Butuan City Chapter, Philippine Information Agency (PIA) ug uban ang nagkalain-laing sponsors kagahapong adlawa (Aug. 28) sa Brgy. Obrero Covered Court, ning siyudad.

Matud pa ni RMN-dxBC Manager Ramil Bangues, ang gipahigayong bloodletting activity alayon sa ilang ika-59th anniversary ug usa usab ka paagi sa paghatag og bili sa founder sa maong estasyon nga si Don Henry R. Canoy nga diin prayoridad niini ang paghatag ug serbisyo sa katawhan.

Mahinumdumang natukod ang pinaka-unang estayon sa RMN dinhi sa Mindanao niadtong August 28, 1952 sa Cagayan de Oro.

Dugang pa ni Bangues nga inubanan sa bloodletting activity mao usab ang pagpahigayon o paghatag sa free Medical and Dental services, free massage, free optical check-up, free haircut, free livelihood seminar ug mass feeding alang sa mga residente sa Brgy. Obrero.

Adunay kapin sa 200 nga mga residente uban ang senior citizens nga mi-avail sa mga serbisyo ug ubay-ubay nga mga volunteers ang mi-donar ug dugo sa Red Cross.

Sa laing bahin, gibutyag usab ni RMN-dxBC News Director Sasie Abastas-Babar nga ang mga tigpaminaw sa ilang estasyon mao ang mga beneficiaries sa maong livelihood seminar diin gitudlu-an sila sa mga nagkalain-laing stratehiya kung unsaon nga makabaton ug makasugod og maayong negosyo.

Daku usab ang pasalamat ni Bangues ug Babar kauban sa ilang mga staff ngadto sa Phil. Red Cross, PIA, 402nd Brigade Phil. Army ug sa local nga panggamhanan ning siyudad sa Butuan ug probinsya sa Agusan del Norte ilabi na usab kay Vice-Mayor Atty. Lawrence Fortun, uban ang mga pribadong sector nga mi-sponsor sa nasangpit nga mga aktibidades. (PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Sunday, August 28, 2011

DOLE assures intervention for repatriated OFWs

BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 28 (PIA) -- “We would like to inform the public especially the Overseas Filipino workers families that the Department of Labor and Employment is always looking into the welfare of the repatriated OFWs from Libya, Syria and from other countries in the middle east,” Regional Director Ofelia Domingo said in her short message during the selection of the Region’s Best PESOs on August 22, 2011, in the presence of representatives from academe and media.

Dir. Domingo urged the public to help disseminate the programs of DOLE to the affected OFWs particularly the technical and financial assistance to start livelihood project or to acquire skills to manage small businesses.

The DOLE’s programs enrolled under the Community Based Employment Program fit the needs of the affected OFWs, where their dependents could be prioritized for employment under the Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES) or they, themselves and their family members could avail of the technical assistance in forms of training, referral and placement and consultancy services which will be provided by OWWA, TESDA, POEA, RTWPB, NLRC, NCMB and PESO and financial and livelihood assistance in a form of starter kits to be provided by DOLE.

RD Domingo added that these are not the only programs the affected OFWs DOLE can offer. They have just to visit or call any of the DOLE attached agencies and field offices to seek for the assistance that they need and they will be immediately entertained.

The general public can also visit our website: www.caraga.dole.gov.ph or use our hotline: (085) 3455212. (DOLE-13/PIA-Caraga)

SUMAPI in Surigao City pays 13 workers 1.3M

by Glo Varquez

BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 28 (PIA) -- The Single Entry Approach (SENA) or the 30-day mandatory conciliation-mediation approach in the disposition of cases proved to be a blessing not only to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) but also to the workers as it hastened settlement of claims and complaints filed by workers in any DOLE office.

It has become true in Surigao City where one company, the Surigao Marine Products Incorporated (SUMAPI) paid a total of P1,347,022.74 for 13 workers in just one (1) hearing of the case.

This settlement has been the highest in the history of case disposition thru SENA in the province of Surigao del Norte, involving only one company.

From February to August 2011, Surigao del Norte posted settlement amount of P2,321,632.30 with the following details: February - 96,260.49 benefiting one (1) worker; March - 786,787.61 benefiting six (6) workers; July - 1,347,022.74 benefiting 13 workers; and August - 91,561.32 benefiting three (3) workers.

DOLE-Caraga Regional Director Ofelia Domingo continues to encourage the SENA Desk Officers in every field office and attach agency to always uphold and support the President Aquino’s goal to “reform labor arbitration and adjudication systems by streamlining procedures, removing red tape, and at the same time, restore integrity and fairness in the system”.

RD Domingo is very proud of the first semester accomplishments of Caraga making the region the topnotcher in SENA implementation and is hopeful of a sustained effort in the next semester. (DOLE-13/PIA-Caraga)

Caraga’s pick for the Nat’l Best PESO Award

by Mary Lyn Saludo and Domz Nazario

BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 28 (PIA) -- Six (6) Public Employment Service Office (PESO) managers from Caraga region were nominated for the the National Best PESO Award. Deliberation will be done by the Bureau of Local Employment. Awarding will be held during the 11th National PESO Congress set on October 5-7, 2011.

The regional selection was done by the Evaluation Team headed by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Caraga Regional Director Ofelia Domingo with staff from Technical Support Services Division (TSSD), Field Office Heads, Austin Bade of OWWA, Mariell Eunice Conde of Father Saturnino Urios University and Cecil Ybanez, columnist of the Mindanao News Courier, as members who sat down on August 22, 2011 to work on the challenging task of determining the most qualified nominees for the National Best PESO award.

Nominees were evaluated according to Impact of Performance/Achievement (80%) which cover Core Services, Referral and Placement, Number of Labor Market Information (LMI) reports submitted, Number of Career Guidance conducted and beneficiaries, and DOLE Programs implemented; Recipient of Awards from prestigious institutions (10%), and Leadership in any prestigious organization with contribution to employment (10%)

During the initial deliberation, the body agreed to select two (2) best contenders for the following categories: Municipal PESO (1st– 4th class); Provincial PESO (1st & 2nd Class); Highly Urbanized City PESO; Component City PESO.

After a thorough deliberation, the following nominees emerged as winners in their respective category: Mr. Rolando Uyan (LGU –Surigao City) – Component City; Ms. Divina P. Lagumbay (PLGU – Agusan Sur) – Provincial 1st Class; Mr. Emilio Pantejo (PLGU – Surigao Norte) – Provincial 2nd Class; Ms. Alale Frias (LGU – Trento, Agusan Sur) – Municipal 1st Class; Ms. Rhoniel Serenado (LGU – Sta. Josefa, Agusan Sur) – Municipal 3rd Class; Ms. Aniceta M. Selda (LGU – Cagwait, Surigao Sur) – Municipality 4th Class.

The evaluation results with the comprehensive “Bid Book” and other pertinent documents/attachments of all the regional winners will be immediately sent to The Bureau of Local Employment for the national deliberation. (DOLE-13/PIA-Caraga)

Cebuano News: Mga district hospitals sa Agusan del Norte, gipalambo

ni Roselyn Gangca Exaure

BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 28 (PIA) -- Gisugdan na sa pagdevelop ang mga District Hospitals ning lalawigan, kini ang gibutyag ni Agusan del Norte Gov. Erlpe John M. Amante, kon diin usa kini sa iyang mga priority programs.
Alayon niini gikatakdang butangan ug lima ka mga private rooms ang Cabadbaran District Hospital sa Cabadbaran City, aron dili na kinahanglan nga moanhi pa sa dakbayan sa Butuan ang mga pasyente nga maadmit nga nanginahanglan ug mga pribadong lawak.

Gidugang pa ni Gov. Amante nga plano usab nga butangan ug mga doctor”s offices ang maong balay tambalanan aron i-patronize na kini sa mga pribadong doktor ug mas molambo pa unya ang serbisyo niini. (VC1) Sumala pa usab ni Gov. Amante nga iyang gigahinan ug dakung pondo ang pagdevelop sa Cabadbaran District Hospital ug kon unsa man gani ang mamahimong output niini, mao usab kini ang himoon sa mga district hospitals ning lalawigan.

Gibutyag pa usab ni Gov. Amante nga ang mga private rooms sa Cabadbaran District Hospital mamahimong susama na unya sa mga private hospitals ning syudad sa Butuan apan mas barato matud pa kini kon itandi ngadto na sa mga pribadong balay tambalanan. (RGE, Agusan del Norte-PIO/PIA-Caraga)

Cebuano News: Co-Management Project sa probinsya laumang makapausab sa economic profile sa Agusan del Norte

ni Roselyn Gangca Exaure

BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 28 (PIA) -- Daku ang panglantaw ni Agusan del Norte Gov. Erlpe John M. Amante nga makahatag og dakung kausaban sa economic profile ning lalawigan ang katumanan sa Co-management Project sa LASBUENASCAR (Las Nieves, Buenavista, Nasipit, ug Carmen) Area nga naglangkob sa 56,000 ka ektarya nga yuta.

Gipasabot pa ni Gov. Amante nga kon ma-utilize lang sa sakto ang maong luna, makahatag gayud kini ug dakung kausaban, kon diin nagrepresenta kini sa 20% nga total land area sa tibook lalawigan sa Agusan del Norte.

Gidugang pa ni Gov. Amante nga ang maong yuta dili kini produktibo sulod na sa dugay nga panahon ug karon matransform na kini ngadto na sa usa ka productive land pinaagi sa co-management project. (RGE, Agusan del Norte-PIO/PIA-Caraga)