(PAGASA 24-HOUR PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST as of Friday, 30 May 2025) Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) affecting Mindanao. Easterlies affecting the rest of the country. 𝗙𝗢𝗥𝗘𝗖𝗔𝗦𝗧 𝗪𝗘𝗔𝗧𝗛𝗘𝗥 𝗖𝗢𝗡𝗗𝗜𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡: Butuan City, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Norte and Surigao del Sur will experience cloudy skies with scattered rains and thunderstorms due to ITCZ. Possible flash floods or landslides due to moderate to at times heavy rains. 𝗙𝗢𝗥𝗘𝗖𝗔𝗦𝗧 𝗪𝗜𝗡𝗗 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗖𝗢𝗔𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗟 𝗪𝗔𝗧𝗘𝗥 𝗖𝗢𝗡𝗗𝗜𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡: Light to moderate winds coming from East to Northeast will prevail with slight to slight to moderate seas (0.6 to 1.5 meters).


PIA News Service - Saturday, November 19, 2011

DTI & LGU-Butuan conduct E-Bamboo Training

by Cristina Dedel

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 19 (PIA)
-- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Agusan del Norte, in coordination with the Rural Micro Enterprise Promotion Program (RUMEPP), Cottage Industry Technology Center (CITC) and the city government of Butuan, conducted training on engineered bamboo entitled “Bamboo Primary Processing & Lamination” from November 7-11 at the Slaughter House Compound and Ronwood Construction Co., this city.

According to DTI-Agusan del Norte Officer-in-Charge Gay Tidalgo, the five-day training aimed to introduce and transfer the technology of engineered bamboo to the Caraga region’s existing and potential furniture makers.

“It is also expected that this activity would encourage tree farmers and other landed individuals to opt for bamboo plantation,” Tidalgo added.

Meanwhile, Elvin T. Dimasuay of the CITC actted as the trainer/resource person of said skill’s training.

Beneficiaries of the training are the members of the United Furniture Makers Association (UFMA), Caraga Chamber of Wood Industries Association (CCWIA), tree farmers and other furniture stakeholders of the region. (DTI-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

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Government ready to implement P8.5b roadmap and investment plan for ARMM

DAVAO CITY, Nov. 19 (PIA)
-- The government will implement its P8.5 billion roadmap and investment plan for the five provinces under the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) pending appeal against a Supreme Court decision upholding the constitutionality of a law resetting the polls in the region and allowing the President to appoint an officer-in-charge governor thereat, Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse M. Robredo recently said.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) chief said the P8.5 billion disbursement acceleration fund is on top of the P11.8 billion regular ARMM budget for CY 2011 and which will be implemented by at least 10 national government agencies under an ARMM Transition Team to be headed by the DILG.

“The very main reason why we are here today is to let the public know of the Aquino government’s sincerity in its promise of allocating multi-billion-peso funds for ARMM for its social economic development, governance reforms and for improving peace and security in the region,” Robredo said.

He said the ARMM multi-agency transition team intends to fast track the Aquino government’s mission and vision for ARMM despite a motion for reconsideration by some groups to the October 18, 2011 Supreme Court decision which upheld the constitutionality of Republic Act 10153 postponing the ARMM elections and authorizing President Aquino to appoint OICs in the region.

“We have already prepared the roadmap and investment plan for the ARMM. This means naka-kasa na yung plano at pondo para sa mga bagong proyekto sa ARMM kahit di pa nade-desisyunan with finality ng Supreme Court yung constitutionality ng Republic Act 10153,” Robredo said.

In today’s event held at the Pinnacle Hotel in Davao City, the DILG has invited the five ARMM governors and congressmen, the various non-governmental organizations, civilian volunteer organizations, Christian and Muslim religious leaders, and all concerned stakeholders to discuss the ARMM transition plan, including their respective roles in the implementation of the proposed new social and economic development projects in the region.

Initially, the Department of Budget and Management has approved P5.8 billion - out of the P8.5 billion disbursement allocation fund – which is already on the pipeline, ready for use in the implementation by at least 10 national government agencies for various development projects in the ARMM.

Based on records, the DBM has approved and allocated P756 million for the Department of Health; P2,037,824,00 billion for the Department of Social Welfare and Development; P750 million for the DILG; P24,650,000 for the Department of Science and Technology; P28 million for the Department of Trade and Industry; P510 million for the Department of Agriculture; P49,586,000 for the Department of Environment and Natural Resources; P1,397,005,000 billion for the Department of Public Works and Highways; P80 million for the Department of Transportation and Communications; and P200 million for the Department of Energy.

During the conference, Robredo spoke about the ARMM roadmap for governance; towards and enduring peace and inclusive development while Secretary Luwalhati Antonino, chief of the Mindanao Development Authority, spoke on the subject: Support to ARMM Reform Initiatives: An affirmative agenda for Mindanao peace and development.

Secretary Teresita “Ging” Deles of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process delivered a “solidarity message” for all ARMM stakeholders while DILG Assistant Secretary Nariman Ambolodto discussed the proposed investment plan in the ARMM.

The various NGOs, CVOs, Muslim and Christian religious leaders, on the other hand, held discussions on their strategy of engagement, including their role as “watchdogs” in the implementation of various projects in the ARMM. (DILG Public Affairs Office/PIA-Caraga)

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PNP chief approves additional quota for CY 2011 PO1 Recruitment Program

by PSUPT Martin M Gamba

CAMP RAFAEL C RODRIGUEZ, LIBERTAD, BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 19 (PIA)
-- An additional quota of 2,261 for Police Officer 1 has been approved by the PNP Chief for recruitment for the calendar year 2011.

With this, 400 is allocated for the Special Action Force, 931 for NCRPO, 465 for PRO 7 and PRO 10.

Prospective applicants from PRO 9, 10, 11, 12 and 13 needs to apply personally at PRO 10 Headquarters, Camp Alagar, Cagayan de Oro City.

According to the PNP/NAPOLCOM, the general qualifications are: 1) A citizen of the Philippines; 2) A person of good moral character; 3) Baccalaureate Degree holder from a recognized learning institution; 4) Must possess any of the following eligibility: NAPOLCOM PNP Entrance Examination, R.A No. 6506 (License Criminologist), R.A No. 1080 (Bar and Board Examinations of Baccalaureate Degree), P.D No. 907 (granting Civil Service Eligibility to College Honor Graduates), Civil Service Professional Examination; 5) Must not have been dishonorably discharged from the military employment or dismissed for cause from any civilian position in the government; 6) Must not have been convicted by final judgment of an offense or crime involving moral turpitude; 7) At least 1.62 meter in height for male and 1.57 meter for female; 8) Weight not more or less than five kilograms (5 kg) from the standard weight corresponding to his/her age, height and sex; and 9) Must not be less than 21 nor more than 30 years of age.

Meanwhile, all other photocopied documents must be authenticated by the issuing office. Initial requirement are the following: 1) Duly accomplished Personal Data Sheet (CSC Form 212); 2) Birth certificate authenticated by the National Statistics Office (NSO); 3) Report of rating of eligibility authenticated by issuing authority; and 4) Transcript of Scholastic Records and Diploma duly authenticated by the School Registrar and CAV from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). (PNP-13/PIA-Caraga)

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DTI-RUMEPP facilitates product shelf-life enhancement training

by Cristina Dedel

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 19 (PIA)
-- Thirty-seven (37) micro entrepreneurs (MEs) from Butuan City and Agusan del Norte engaged in processed food production attended a training on Product Shelf-life Enhancement (Food Preservation) facillitated by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Agusan del Norte Provincial Office thru its Rural Micro Enterprise Promotion Programme (RuMEPP).

The training was held recently at the Food Technology Center, Xavier University College of Agriculture, Manresa, Cagayan de Oro City.

The training was conducted by the Xavier Science Foundation, Inc., being the Business Development Service Provider awarded by DTI to implement this capability enhancement project.

Also, the two -day training aimed to enhance the capabilities of the participating MEs of improving the visual impact and shelf-life of their products in order to be competitive in the market and increase their sales as well.

The training module included the discussion of topics on food spoilage, food preservation, product development, product packaging, hands-on preparation and processing of food products, and the actual exposure/visit at Tropic Foods, a banana chips and cashew nuts products processor and Vjandep, a bake shop famous for its “pastel” products. (DTI-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

PIA News Service - Friday, November 18, 2011

PDEA-Caraga culminates Drug Abuse Prevention & Control Week today

by Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 18 (PIA)
–- The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Caraga Regional Office spearheaded culmination of this year’s Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Week with an awarding ceremony to government agencies and private stakeholders who are actively campaigning against use of illegal drugs in the region.

Governor Johnny Pimentel of Surigao del Sur graced the culmination program held today at the PDEA-Caraga Regional Office as guest speaker.

"Illegal Drugs has been a problem in the 80 provinces of this country. It does not only affect rich people but also the poor, the young and elders. That is why there is really a need now that the LGUs should support and take part in solving this problem," he said.


Pimentel also encouraged other local government units in the region to strengthen its Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council (PADAC) and replicate his “JYES KontraDroga” which was recently launched in Tandag City.

The “JYES KontraDroga” aims to implement its 10 (JYES) point agenda against drug abuse. They are as follows: (1) To establish a Covenant with all sectors; (2) To strengthen Anti-Drug Abuse Councils; (3) To intensify Information Education Campaign on “KontraDroga”; (4) To adapt a Moral Recovery Program; (5) To institutionalize Sports Development Program for the youth; (6) to establish a Rehabilitation Program for drug dependents; (7) to provide Skills Development and Livelihood Programs; (8) to provide regular Support to the Law Enforcement Units on anti-illegal drugs operations and PADAC activities; (9) to advocate a Healthy Lifestyle; and (10) to lead a Drug-Free Surigao del Sur.

Aside from the delivery of the governor's message, burning of drug and non-drug evidence on decided cases, and signing of documents and certification of burning were also conducted along.

Meanwhile, PDEA-Caraga Officer-In-Charge Dir. Joel Plaza thanked all the partners from the government and private sector for continuously supporting them. He also asked for the active participation of the LGUs in its campaign.

This year's celebration is anchored on the theme "Global Action for Healthy Communities without Drugs". (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

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Lanuza Surfing Festival 2011 set on November 21-26

by Nida Grace B. Tranquilan

SURIGAO DEL SUR, Nov. 18 (PIA)
–- The Local Government Unit of Lanuza, headed by Mayor Salvacion Azarcon, is now on its final preparation for their upcoming 9th Lanuza Surfing Festival 2011.

Anchored from its theme: “God’s Gift of Nature Tourists Spring of Pleasure and Farmers/Fishers’ Source of Treasure”, the six-day celebration is set on Monday, November 21 up to November 26.

This year’s celebration of the Surfing Festival will be highlighted with the 9th National Surfing Open (Wahini’s Division, Men’s Division and Junior Division) and 7th Longboard Invitational competition to be held at the island of Doot Poktoy in Lanuza.


Azarcon revealed that an entry fee of P200.00 per surfer is required. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)

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150K awaits 3rd Agri-Aqua Tourism Trade Fair winners

by Nida Grace B. Tranquilan

SURIGAO DEL SUR, Nov. 18 (PIA)
-- A total of P150,00 cash prizes await the 3rd Agri-Aqua Tourism Trade Fair winners, in time for the celebration of the 9th Lanuza Surfing Festival 2011.

The competition will be joined by the 13 barangays of Lanuza. Local products as souvenir items will also be displayed in their respective booths during the weeklong celebration.

Accordingly, this year’s competition mechanics include the following criteria: Backyard Gardening in every household (40%); Implementation of Solid Waste Management (20%); Booth Dressing and Display (20%) and; Sales of Goods during the weeklong Surfing Festival Celebration (20%).

The contest is an annual activity of the local government unit in support of the implementation of Republic Act 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)

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Students participate in symposium on TB and HIV

by Jovelyn C. Mejorada and Maria Rebecca C. Ayaton

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 18 (PIA)
-– In line with the celebration of the Leprosy Prevention Month, the Department of Health-Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) Caraga recently conducted the Symposium on tuberculosis (TB) and Human Immunodefiency Virus at Luciana Convention Center, this city.

The said activity was attended by 250 students from secondary public and private schools such as the Agusan National High School (ANHS), Butuan City School of Arts and Trade (BCSAT), Libertad National High School (LNHS), Timber City Academy (TCA) and Father Saturnino Urios University (FSUU).

Because of the dramatic increase of TB and HIV cases in the community, the DOH-CHD carry out their task in suppressing the said diseases through educating the students.

The conduct of the symposium was aimed at making the students conscious of the importance of their role and responsibility to the community in combatting and preventing TB and HIV since the many people of the community are already affected to such diseases. (PIA-Caraga)

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LGU-Butuan, DTI-AgNor to hold Christmas bazaar

by Cristina Dedel

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 18 (PIA)
-- As part of the city’s month-long celebration for Christmas, the local government is set to hold a Christmas Bazaar on November 22 to December 22, 2011 at the City Hall Complex.

Led by Mayor Ferdinand Amante Jr, in cooperation with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Butuan City/Agusan del Norte, the bazaar will be joined by micro entrepreneurs and farmers from Butuan City.

Wide-array of products from novelty items, to processed foods and farm products are going to be available at low prices.

The Christmas Bazaar is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. (DTI-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

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Cebuano news: SEC nagpahigayon og seminar-workshop mahitungod sa campus journalism

SURIGAO CITY, Nob. 18 (PIA)
–- Sa pagtinguha nga madebelop ang kahanas sa pagsuwat sa ilang mga estudyante, ang Surigao Education Center (SEC), ang nag-inusarang eskuylahan sa syudad sa Surigao nga sertipikado sa International Organization for Standardization (ISO) kasamtangang mipahigayon karon sa duha ka adlaw nga seminar-workshop on campus journalism nga gisugdan kagahapon og mahuman karong adlawa Nobyembre 18.

Sa iyang mensahe, si Prof. Joewaren Sulima, ang training officer sa SEC miingon nga ang maong kalihokan nagtinguha nga ang mga editotial staff, school paper advisers ug teachers sa elementarya ug kolehiya nga departamento mamahimong sarang ug responsableng manunuwat-gikan sa pagkuha og mga balita, pagsuwat hangtod sa pagpagawas sa eskuylahan nga basahon (school paper) sa saktong oras.

Si Prof. Sulima usab miingon ang mga magtutudlo ug school paper advisers makahibalo sa mga bag-ong pamaagi ug mga isyu mahitungod sa campus journalism aron mapatas-an nila ang kalidad sa integridad ug responsibilidad pagsuwat og mga balita, mga opinion ug mga kalihokan.

Sa dugang pamahayag, si Sulima miingon nga ang mga estudyante makakat-on og makasabot sa ilang tagsa-tagsa ka mga tahas ug responsibilidad sa campus journalism isip kasaligan nga media sa eskuylahan.

Ang imbitadong mga mamumulong gikan sa Provincial Information Center Managers sa Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga Region.

Ang PIA Surigao del Norte Information Center Manager Fryan E. Abkilan motuki sa News Writing samtang si David M. Suyao, ang Information Center Manager sa Agusan del Sur Provincial Information Center maoy motuki sa Editorial Writing, Feature Writing ug Photojournalism.

Aron pagkumpleto sa journalism nga kalihokan, ang mga partisipante pagabansayon sa computer based Layouting gamit ang Adobe InDesign CS3 software.


Uban niining maong kalihokan, si Sulima naglaom nga pagkahuman sa maong pagbansay, ang mga editorial staff school papers advisers makabuhat paghimo og kalidad nga basahon sa ilang eskuylahan isip sumusunod sa pagsuwat og balance nga mga balita, isyu, opinion ug mga kalihokan sa responsableng campus journalism. (PIA-Surigao del Norte)

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Cebuano news: Pangulong Aquino mimugna og komitiba alang sa National Observances

ni Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Nob. 18 (PIA)
–- Si Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III mimugna og steering committee alang sa National Observances aron maoy magplano, mag-organisa ug mopahigayon sa pagselebrar sa mga napiling makasaysayanong mga panghitabo.

Ang Pangulo mipagawas sa Administrative Order (AO) No. 23 niadtong Nobyembre 10, 2011, nga nagmando sa komitiba nga pagadumalahon ang selebrasyon sa nasodnong bayani sama sa Araw ng Kagitingan, Independence Day, National heroes Day, Bonifacio Day, Rizal Day ug uban pang makasaysayanong mga kalihokan.

Ang Republic Act (R.A) No. 10086 nagmando sa National Historical commission of the Philippines (NHCP) nga edeterminar tanang mga panghitabo may kalabot na sa kasaysayan sa Pilipinas lakip usab pagdebelop ug pag-implementar og mga materyales aron nga mapa-ambit ang maayong kasaysayan sa Pilipinas.

"Every year the NHCP initiates, through separate presidential issuances, the organization and implementation by different inter-agency committees of national observances to celebrate important events and honor key historic figures," si Pagulong Aquino miingon mahitungod sa maong AO.

Sa pagpagawas sa maong AO No. 23, ang gobyerno aduna nay pirmanenteng komitiba nga maoy mohimo sa mga gikinahanglang preparasyon ug implementasyon sa mga programa alang sa selebrasyon sa mga makasaysayanong kalihokan.

Si Pangulong Aquino mitudlo sa NHCP isip maoy chairperson ug maoy mangulo sa komitiba. Ang maong komitiba naglangkob sa mga opisyales, nga adunay ranggo nga Assistant Secretary, gikan sa Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Education (DepEd) ug ang Department of Tourism (DOT).

Ang komitiba kinahanglan mohimo, mo-organisa ug mopahigayon sa mga tinuig nga mga selebrasyon sa makasaysayanong mga kalihokan, mo-awhag sa mga local nga panggobyerno, ug mga pribadong sector alang sa epektibo nga pagpahigayon sa makasaysayanong mga programa.

Kini usab magmonitor ug mohatag og report ngadto sa Pangulo matag tulo kabulan kalabot na sa mga programa sa komitiba ug mohimo sa uban pang mga lihok nga gikinahanglan aron masunod ang mga probisyon sa maong Administrative Order.

Ang Pangulo mimando sa uban pang mga ahensya sa gobyerno aron pagkooperar ug pagsuporta sa mga aktibedades sa komitiba. (PIA-Surigao del Norte)

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Cebuano news: Pinaka-unang liquid nitrogen plant sa nasud, gibuksan sa Agusan del Sur

BUTUAN CITY, Nob. 18 (PIA)
-- Pormal nang gibuksan bag-ohay pa lamang sa lalawigan sa Agusan del Sur, ang pinaka-unang liquid nitrogen plant dili lang sa Caraga kondili sa tibuok Pilipinas.

Sigon ni provincial veterinarian Dr. Juris Elibaso, ang maong planta gamiton alang sa pagpreserbar sa semen sa mga binuhing kahayupan sama sa kanding, kabaw, baka ug uban pa nga gamiton alang sa artificial insemination.

Pinaagi sa maong planta, maseguro ang pag-produce og dakong bulto sa liquid nitrogen nga segurado matud pang maghatag og maayong liwat sa gustong paliwatang kahayupan.

Gawas niana, makahatag pa usab kini og dugang income sa probinsyal nga panggamhanan. (BR/PIA-Caraga)

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Cebuano news: ANECO, rehistrado na sa CDA

BUTUAN CITY, Nob. 18 (PIA) --
Gikumpirma ni Regional Director Manuela Pelaez sa Cooperative Development Authority kon CDA-Caraga nga rehistrado na sa ilang ahensya ang Agusan del Norte Electric Cooperative kon ANECO.

Kini human giparehistro sa mga members-consumers sa kooperatiba pinaagi sa pagsunod sa saktong proseso subay sa tinguhang mapalambo pa ang operasyon sa ANECO human ang gihimong referendum niadtong bulan sa Agusto ning tuiga.

Sigon sa opisyal, migawas sa guidelines nga 20 porsiento sa mga member-consumers ang mibotar nga iparehistro sa CDA ang ANECO dungan sa pagklaro nga dili mamugos ang ilang ahensya sa rehistrasyon sa mga kooperatibaa og ang rehistrasyon gibase lang sa mga gisubmiteng rekisitos sa maong mga membro.

Napresentar matud pa ang certificate of registration niadtong petsa 11 ning bulana kon 11-11-11 atol sa gipahigayong Cooperative Peace Forum og kini wala magpasabot nga ang ANECO dili na magpadayon sa ilang operasyon.

Giklaro pa sa opisyal nga karong ilalom na sa ilang ahensya ang ANECO, ang incumbent board of directors sa maong kooperatiba makapadayon gihapon sa ilang pagserbisyo ngadto sa ilang mga membrong konsumidor uban sa pagsinabtanay. (BR/PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Thursday, November 17, 2011

Feature: 'Butuan by the River', a place where Butuanons get together for fun and entertainment

by Jennifer P. Gaitano

The city government of Butuan led by Mayor Ferdinand M. Amante Jr. is putting up a venue where Butuanons will truly enjoy the provincial ambience while having fun with the things that will relief them from stress.

This was also an answer to the city government’s problem on the cluttered sidewalk vendors. But this problem has long been forgotten ever since the Butuan by the River has been put in place. It was indeed a solution at the same time.

Butuan by the River is a venue where Butuanons enjoy the trade fair; ukay-ukay; film showing; videoke; and other entertainment.

Creation of Butuan by the River

The conception of Butuan by the River came about when the City Economic Enterprises Department (CEED) was in a dilemma of how to organize and where to relocate the cluttered sidewalk vendors around the city (Ukayan from the Market Sidewalk, Otis Sidewalk, Barbequehan from Montilla Boulevard).

With this, CEED believed that the ultimate answer to this problem is to relocate the sidewalk vendors to Freedom Park area. Since the area is idle, they thought it was a suitable and safe place for them to be relocated.

Alongside is the goal to relive the trading industry in this area and to showcase the splendor of the Mighty Agusan River, as well as provide Butuanons a place where their families enjoy the bond together. Then on, hand in hand with the effort of Mayor Amante together with the head of CEED Ma. Ruth N. Jugao and staff, City Engineers Office Head and personnel, the construction of the pathways and the lounging area was established.

They also conceptualized the “Freedom Park Night Market/Ukayan sa Dakbayan”, area covered from the Post Office towards the Coast Guard area that also covers barangays Leon Kilat and Humabon.

The former Freedom Park is also the activity area (now known as The Butuan by the River) the assigned area for Masseurs (Massage), Cosmetologist (Manicure and Pedicure), Hair Cut, Plant Vendors, Food Stalls and a Scheduled “Live Band” Performances every Friday Night.

Butuan by the River was officially opened to the Public on December 1, 2010, in time of the opening of the Christmas festivities of the ‘Light Up Butuan’ activity.

Butuan By the River today


At present, Butuan by the River is the home for different age brackets from youngsters and to those who are young at hearts.

During daytime Butuan by the River is a place where family, barkadahan (Clicks) and children can gather together, lounge around and enjoy the scenic view of Agusan River.


For those who loved the nature (experience the cool breeze of the River and its Tranquility) suitable for Picnics and even for those who enjoy the fishing activity.

This place also has the children’s playground where children can play around safely. Butuan by the River is a WIFI Hotspot fit for those who are Internet Savvy.

At night, Butuan by the River is place fit for those people who loves to Chill-out. Enjoy the crowd of Party-lovers, drinks and food and Live Band Performances at a very affordable rate.

And for those who love “Ukay-Ukays” then the outside area of ‘By the River’ along G. Flores Avenue is the Night Market open from Friday Night ‘til Sunday Night.

Meanwhile, Police Chief Supt Reynaldo S. Rafal, Regional Director of Police Regional Office 13, said police security in the area is round-the-clock for the safety of tourists, both foreign and domestic as well as Agusanons and Butuanons.

Implementation of the ‘Clean Ground, Zero Waste’ Program

With the full implementation of the ‘Clean Ground, Zero Waste’ Program of the city government this month, the Butuan by the River and Butuan City in general is cleaner and reflects better atmosphere while Butuanons are also becoming more disciplined and productive by constant proper waste segregation.

From the segregated wastes, Butuanons also learned to convert it into money buy selling the recyclable materials to the shops, as well as converting wastes into organic fertilizers which has started to uplift the morale and the life of Butuanons.

These small and great things which Butuanons now enjoy truly changed their lifestyle into a more progressive city.

It can be recalled that the city government has launched said program last September 11, 2011 and had its full-blown implementation on November 11, 2011.

With these developments, the city government is inviting tourists to visit Butuan by the River, not only to enjoy the historic scenic spots but also to enjoy the hospitability, courteousness, and generosity of Butuanons. (PIA-Caraga)

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GADCC-Caraga bares activities for the 18-Day campaign to End Violence Against Women

by Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 17 (PIA)
–- In line with this year’s 18-Day campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW) and children, the Caraga Regional Development Council – Gender and Development Coordinating Committee (RDC-GADCC) prepared activities from November 25 to December 12, 2011.

On Nov. 22, the Caraga Men Opposed to VAW Everywhere (MOVE) with the Commission on Population (PopCom) will be spearheading the Forum on “Male Involvement in Responsible Parenting” at the Goat2Geder Hotel and Restaurant, wherein every government agency will be sending their male representative to attend the forum.

GADCC members are also invited to the 18-Day Campaign Press Conference with chairperson and Commission on Human Rights (CHR) Caraga Regional Director Atty. Marylin Pintor with other concerned officials to be held on Nov. 23, 1 p.m. at the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Caraga Regional Office.

On Nov. 25, the 18-Day campaign will officially kick-off through a “Walk for A Cause” from the city’s Rizal Park going to the Agusan del Norte Covered Court, wherein the opening program and ‘Hataw’ exercise will follow.

It was also learned that from Nov. 25-Dec. 12, the GADCC members and Speakers’ Bureau will be conducting GAD Orientation Seminars and Fora.

On Nov. 29, the Gesu Eucharistico Children’s Incorporated will be visiting Manapa, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte to check the status of the children’s abused. They will be accompanied by the concerned government agencies.

Also, GADCC will be holding the Forum on “Sexual Exploitation and Trafficking in Persons” with speaker – Ms. Jean Enriquez on Dec. 2, 1 p.m. at the Luciana Convention Center.

Meanwhile, on Dec. 12, the following activities will be conducted: 1) Forum on United Nations Security Council Resolutions (UNSCRs) 1325 and 1820; 2) Launching of the “VAWC-Free LGU Program; and 3) 4th Quarter GADCC Full Committee Meeting cum Christmas Party. All these activities will be held in Butuan City.

RDC-GADCC is inviting the general public to participate in the lined-up activities and continue to support the committee in their fight against violence to women and children.

This year’s celebration is anchored on the theme: “UNITE: Stop VAW, Now!” (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

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Campaign against HIV, AIDS strengthened

by Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 17 (PIA)
–- To minimize the number of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) - affected youths in the country, the Caraga Youth AIDS Council (CYAC) with the Caraga Youth Leaders' Network Inc. (CYLN) has been working to continuously inform the youth on the said diseases.

According to CYAC Chairperson Mary Joy Castorico, HIV continues to threaten humanity, despite a global mechanism fighting against it as incorporated in the Millennium Development Goals of the United Nations.

“The call for a widespread education seems to be the most effective tool in combating the spread of the virus among us. Thus, the Philippine government has installed a national foundation of HIV education campaign called Republic Act 8504 otherwise known as the “Philippine AIDS Prevention and Control Act of 1998,” said Castorico.

In line with this, the CYAC and CYLN encourages the youth to participate in the "Life Skills Training-Workshop on HIV and AIDS in the Challenges of the New Era," set on November 25-26, 2011 at the Prince Hotel, this city.

Participants will have to pay a P2,500 registration fee, which will cover meals (lunch on Nov. 25 up to afternoon snack on Nov. 26), hotel boarding, kit, manuals, training certificate and other incidental expenses.

With this, the CYAC is calling on the youths be vigilant in whatever activities they do as well as participate in activities that will increase their knowledge and prevent them from HIV/AIDS. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

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PhilHealth-sponsored Mindanao Run for Hope launched today

by Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 17 (PIA)
-– The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) here launched Thursday the PHILHEALTH RUN: The Mindanao Run for Hope 2012, the first simultaneous run in Mindanao.

The activity started with a motorcade around the city thoroughfares and the program proper followed at the PhilHealth Caraga Regional Office.

According to PhilHealth Caraga Regional Vice Pres. Johnny Y. Sychua, the run is slated on February 5, 2012, which shall be held simultaneously in the cities of Butuan, Cagayan de Oro, Davao, Koronadal, Marawi and Zamboanga; targeting a minimum of 17,000 runners across Mindanao.


“For Butuan City, we are aiming at least 2,500 runners who shall assemble outside the Father Saturnino Urios University (FSUU) Gymnasium,” said Sychua.

PhilHealth Run hopes to provide financial assistance to a chosen beneficiary with the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) Children’s Cancer Center and Blood Diseases Unit (Kids of Hope), the only facility in Visayas and Mindanao that can deliver multidisciplinary care for children with cancer.

Moreover, the event will similarly provide financial assistance to Por Cristo Foundation Incorporated and Lingap Center of Butuan City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) a facility for the abandoned elderly and abandoned children, respectively.


For more details on the said event, Sychua encourages the public to call their office at telephone numbers: (085) 225-7017 or 341-3359. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

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Gov. Matugas to request for increased military visibility in Surigao del Norte

by Ian G. Miculob, NEDA-Caraga

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 17 (PIA)
-- Governor Sol F. Matugas of Surigao del Norte reiterated the need for increased visibility of military personnel in some parts in Surigao del Norte, including Bad-as and Claver, following the attack and burning incident perpetrated by the Communist Party of the Philippines/New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) at Taganito Mining Corporation in Claver, Surigao del Norte early this October.

Talking with the media together with Cong. Philip A. Pichay, Gov. Johnny T. Pimentel and Director Carmencita S. Cochingco of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) during the “Meet the Press” organized by the Caraga Regional Tri-Media Practitioners Association, Inc. (CATRIPA), Governor Matugas said that she will discuss with the CPP-CPA issues related to mining and the programs they want that are not yet implemented.

Governor Matugas is the present chairperson of the Regional Development Council (RDC), the highest policy-making body in the region. She was in Tandag City to preside over the October 18, 2011 69th RDC Full Council Meeting which preceded the media blitz at Villa Maria Luisa Hotel.

“Please help us convince them that what we are doing is for the people,” Surigao del Sur Johnny T. Pimentel said, asking the media’s help to appeal to the CPP-NPA. Surigao del Sur also hosts several mining companies which are concentrated in the CANCARMADCARLAN area near Surigao del Norte.

Governor Pimentel added that the people of Surigao del Sur can not remain fishers and farmers forever as there is already another opportunity for them. The mining industry alone has offered thousands of jobs to the locals in the area.


Congressman Pichay, on the other hand, highlighted his support to an amendment in a law specifically on mining firms being registered under the Board of Investments since presently the government, including the local government units, is only getting less taxes from mining.

When asked if the media can sit in the RDC as member so information can reach the masses and for the media to play its role in peace and order, Director Cochingco explained that membership in the RDC is governed by an Executive Order. “The request, however, can be discussed in the Development Committee of the RDC which can recommend non-voting status for the media,” she added. (NEDA-13/PIA-Caraga)

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Caraga RDC to prioritize region’s poorest barangays

by Ian G. Miculob

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 17 (PIA)
-- The Caraga Regional Development Council (RDC) will prioritize the poorest barangays in terms of resource allocation by the government agencies, local government units and non-government organizations in an effort to make a positive difference to the poverty situation in the Caraga Region.

A resolution creating a special body to oversee planning and synchronization of interventions in the poorest barangays in the region through convergence of efforts and resources was presented to the Caraga RDC during its 69th RDC Full Council Meeting on October 18, 2011 at the Villa Maria Luisa Hotel, Tandag City in Surigao del Sur.

Surigao del Sur Governor Johnny T. Pimental hosted the meeting.

The RDC favorably endorsed the following: (1) Re-endorsement of Port Zone Delineation Application of the Ports in Caraga Region; (2) House Bill No. 5143 “An Act Increasing the Excise tax on Minerals, Mineral Products and Quarry Resources, Amending for the Purpose Certain Sections of the National Internal Revenue Code of 1997, As Amended”; (3) House Bill No. 5058 “An Act Amending RA 7916 or the Special Economic Zone Act of 1995 Thereby Excluding Mining Operations from Activities Eligible for PEZA Registration and Incentives”; (4) House Bill No. 4808 “Promoting the Development of Mineral Processing and in the Process Banning the Export of Iron, Nickel, Chromite, Manganese and Other Strategic Metallic Ores, and for other Purposes”; (5) Request for Sustained Security in Investment Areas in the Region; (6) RDC-DAC Resolution No. 6, Series of 2011 “Endorsing the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency as Non-Voting Member of the RDC”; (7) Request to the Office of the President Not to Re-impose the Clearance Requirement for the Transfer of Motor Vehicles from One Island to Another through Ferry or Similar Transshipment Services; (8) Draft Administrative Order Authorizing the Grant of Family Visit Privilege to Third Level Officials and Other Officers of Equivalent Rank But are Not Presidential Appointees of Government Agencies; and, (9) Caraga Regional Investment Development Program 2011-2016.
Once confirmed by the RDC during its special meeting this month, it will set the Special Committee for Poorest Barangays (SCPB), to be chaired by the Department of Social Welfare and Development, into action.

The Department of Health, Department of Education, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, Department of Trade and Industry, Commission on Population, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Agriculture, Department of Interior and Local Government, Commission on Higher Education, Armed Force of the Philippines, Congressional District Representatives, National Commission on Indigenous Peoples and the Department of Agrarian Reform will become members of the SCPB while the National Economic and Development Authority shall act as the secretariat.

A total of 220 poorest barangays was identified by the provincial local government units. Although the RDC has agreed on prioritization strategy, it has yet to decide among three options, to wit: (1) all 220 barangays are top priority, (2) top 20 per cent (44 barangays) poorest barangays are prioritized on the first year and the following poorer barangays (44 barangays) are added thereafter, or (3) the RDC Full Council decides on what proportion of the total 220 barangays are prioritized throughout the implementation period.

The convergence initiative is the brainchild of RDC Chairperson and Surigao del Norte Governor Sol F. Matugas who wants the RDC to create an impact on the poverty situation in the region before her term ends in 2013.

Asian Development Bank consultant and one-time lead economist of the World Bank in Washington, DC, Dr. Vicente B. Paqueo, who presented the topic “Towards Rapid, Inclusive and Sustainable Development” during the meeting, stressed the need to mobilize, empower and engage the public, NGOs, and other civil society organizations in the planning, implementation and oversight of development efforts.

Recent data show that the Caraga Region recorded the highest poverty incidence among families among the 17 regions in the country in 2009. (NEDA-13/PIA-Caraga)

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Cebuano News: SB Hernan Vasquez nagpahimangno sa katawhan sa Brgy. Sangay

ni Roselyn G. Exaure

AGUSAN DEL NORTE, Nov. 17 (PIA)
-- Mipaabot sa iyang pahimangno si Buenavista Sanggunian Bayan Member Hernan Vasquez ngadto na sa tanang katawhan sa Barangay Sangay sakop sa lungsod sa Buenavista, nga ilang ampingan ang ilang bag-ong naangkon nga proyekto nga mao ang sugang dagitabnon, ubos sa programa nga gipatuman ni pangulong Benigno C. Aquino lll.

Sumala paman sa opisyal nga dakung kabahin sa kinabuhi sa tawo ang elektrisidad, hinungdan nga angayan lamang nga ila kini nga ampingan ug dili pasipad-an sama sa pagpangawat sa mga wire sa kuryente nga maoy hinungdan nga maguba ang linya niini ug makaapekto na unya sa serbisyo sa kuryente sa maong lugar.

Gidugang pa sa opisyal nga usa man kini ka kaayuhan sa barangay kon diin makapauswag usab kini sa panginabuhian sa katawhan, hinungdan nga angayan lamang nga ila kini nga ampingan. (VC/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

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Cebuano News: Cong. Matba pamasalamaton sa Sitio Energization Program ni Pangulong Aquino

ni Roselyn G. Exaure

AGUSAN DEL NORTE, Nob. 17 (PIA)
-- Daku ang pagpasalamat ni Agusan del Norte 2nd District Congresswoman Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba, sa gipatuman karon nga Sitio Energization Program ni pangulong Benigno S. Aquino lll.

Sumala pa ni Cong. Matba nga kaniadto lisod kaayo ang pagpatuman sa maong proyekto gumikan sa kadaku sa gasto niini nga manginahanglan pa ug counter-part gikan na sa Local Government Unit, apan sa pagkakaron mas dali na lamang ang pagpatuman sa maong proyekto human kini gihatagan ug dakung pagtagad sa pangulong Aquino.

Subay niini nanghinaut na lamang ang opisyal nga makapataod na ug linya sa kuryente ang tanang mga residente nga nakabenepisyo sa maong programa. (VC/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

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Cebuano News: Banggiitang atleta sa Butuan nakigsangka sa Cluster 2 Regional Meet sa Barobo

ni Jovelyn C. Mejorada

BUTUAN CITY, Nob. 17 (PIA) --
Nakigsangka ang mga banggiitang atleta niining dakbayan sa gipahigayong Cluster-2 Regional Athletic Meet didto sa Barobo, Surigao del Sur diin gisalmutan sa mga delegado gikan sa Bislig City, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Sur, ug Butuan City nga gitambungan usab ni halangdong Konsehal Erwin L. Dano isip hepe sa komitiba sa Education and Social Services.

Ang mga pampaugnat sa kusog gilangkuban sama ning musunod: Archery, Arnis, Badminton, Boxing, Chess, Gymnastics, Sipa/Sepak Takraw, Table Tennis, Taekwondo, ug Lawn Tennis.

132 ka atleta sa dakbayan sa Butuan ang nakigsangka sa maong kalihokan diin 98 niini ang kwalipikado nga mao’y modula unya sa ipahigayong Regional Athletic Meet sa Patin-ay, Agusan del Sur karong umaabot Pebrero 5-9, 2012 diin hugot nga suportado sa atong lokal nga panggamhanan niining syudad sa Butuan. (LGU-Butuan/PIO/PIA-Caraga)

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Cebuano News: Symposium on TB, HIV, atol sa Leprosy Prevention Month gitambungan sa mga kaestudyantehan sa Butuan

ni Jovelyn C. Mejorada

BUTUAN CITY, Nob. 17 (PIA)
-- Atol sa pag-obserbar sa Leprosy Prevention Month ning bulan sa Nobyembre gipahigayon usab ang Symposium on TB and HIV nga gipasi-ugdahan sa Department of Health-Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) Caraga sa pakig-alayon sa City Health Office (CHO) niining siyudad sa Butuan ug gitambungan sa 250 ka mga magtutungha gikan sa sekondaryang pampubliko ug pribadong tulunghaan sama sa Agusan National High School (ANHS), Butuan City School of Arts and Trade (BCSAT), Libertad National High School (LNHS), Timber City Academy (TCA) ug Father Saturnino Urios University (FSUU) sa Luciana Convention Center dili palang dugay.

Katuyuan sa maong symposium nga mahatagan og igong importansya ang mga magtutungha kabahin sa ilang katungdanan sa komunidad nga ilang gipoy-an ingun nga apektado ang kadaghanan kanila sa gika-intapang sakit.

Gipaabot usab sa mga mamumulong ang kabahin sa ilang tahas tungod sa ilang lantip ug maabtik nga panghuna-huna aron makunhuran ang pagkaylap sa nahisgutang sakit. (LGU-Butuan/PIO/PIA-Caraga)

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Cebuano News: Pag turn-over sa usa ka computer set sa Brgy. Mahay, gikalipay sa tanan

ni Jovelyn C. Mejorada

BUTUAN CITY, Nob. 17 (PIA)
-- Gikalipay sa mga opisyalis ug mga lumulupyo sa barangay Mahay ang pagdawat sa usa ka computer set dihang gitunol kini gikan sa lokal nga panggamhanan ni halangdong Mayor Ferdinand M. Amante, Jr. pinaagi mismo ni Mr. Ruel Jamili, Executive Assistant-IV ngadto kang Brgy. Kapitan Jose Dacoseo sa Brgy. Mahay niadtong Nobyembre 14, 2011.

Dungan niini nagpahigayon usab og Tree Planting agi’g pagsanong sa adbokasiya ni Mayor Jun Amante ang Grow a Million Tree ug ang pagpahigayon sa Medical Mission sa pagpanguna sa Moral Recovery Program (MRP) sa nahisgutang barangay diin ubay-ubay ang nakabenipisyo niini ilabina na ang mga kabataan ug Senior Citizens.

Mapasalamaton ang mga lumulupyo sa nahisgutang barangay sa igong suporta nga gikan sa lokal nga panggamhanan ilabina ang pagpakonkreto sa kalsada sa mismong barangay. (LGU-Butuan/PIO/PIA-Caraga)

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Cebuano News: Medical Mission sa Brgy. NongNong gidugok sa kabagang panon sa katawhan

ni Jovelyn C. Mejorada

BUTUAN CITY, Nob. 17 (PIA)
-- Atol sa pagsaulog sa ika 22nd nga Adlaw Hong NongNong gipahigayon ang Medical Mission sa pagpanguna ni halangdong Konsehal Erwin L. Dano isip Officer-in-Charge sa atong halangdong Mayor Ferdinand M. Amante, Jr. nga tua karon sa Japan aron makapangalap og daghang investors alang sa dugang kalambu-an sa dakbayan sa Butuan ug mubobo og dugang trabaho sa mga kaigsoonan nga nanginahanglan.

Ubay-ubay ang nakabenipisyo sa dalang serbisyong medical sama sa libreng check-up, pang-apod-apod sa mga tambal, ug libreng ibot sa daot nga ngipon gipasi-ugdahan sa City Health Office.

Sa susamang serbisyo, naghatod usab ang Office of the Senior Citizens kon OSCA ngadto sa mga hingtungdang Senior Citizens sa nahisgutang barangay, mitambong usab ang buhatan sa City Veterinarian nga naghatag og anti-rabies vaccine sa mga binuhing iro ug ingon man usab mipaabot ang buhatan sa City Agriculture aron sa paghatod og libreng binhi sa gulay ug uban pa alang sa mga lumulupyo.

Sa mensahe ni Hon. Claudia B. Bersosa Punong Barangay sa Brgy. Nongnong mapasalamaton kini sa gihatod nga serbisyong medical sa lokal nga panggamhanan ngadto sa ilang barangay. (LGU-Butuan/PIO/PIA-Caraga)

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Cebuano News: Pormal nga pagtapos sa 2011 Moral Recovery Program Congress, gipahigayon

ni Ritchelle F. Encabo

BUTUAN CITY, Nob. 17 (PIA)
-- Pormal nang natapos bag-ohay pa lamang ang 2011 Moral Recovery Program Congress sa Balanghai Hotel and Convention Center ning dakbayan sa Butuan.

Sa maong kongreso adunay pipila ka mga mamumulong ang mi-tambong sama ni Dr. Agustin B. Vencer, Jr., ang BOD Chairman sa Alliance Graduate School; Bro. Job Sar Diasanta, MRP-Chairman; Hon. Jesse Robredo, Secretary sa Department of the Interior and Local Government; Mr. Donald Seronay, Chief sa Local Government Monitoring and Evaluation; ug si Atty. Pelagio S. Apostol, Deputy Ombudsman for Visayas.


Sa pakipaghinabi kay JSI Thomas Augustine H. Catarata, ang Bureau of Jail Management and Penology RO-VI Regional Chaplain, isip usa ka chaplain sa maong buhatan, parte na ang paghatag og giya ngadto sa mga binilanggo hilabina ang ispiritwal nga aspeto sa ilang kinabuhi nga bisan pa man sa ilang sitwasyon aduna gihapon paglaum nagpaabot kanila, ug mapasalamaton siya ug dako nga kining maong nahisgutang kongres nahitabo tungod kay dako kini og ikatabang sa panggamhanan ma-local man o national, aron mamahimong malig-onon ug mahadlokon sa Ginoo ang mga kawani niini ingon man ang mga kliyente.

Daku ang pasalamat ni Mayor Ferdinand Amante, Jr. sa mga partisipante niining panagtigum sa pagpaningkamot ni Pastor Charlie Prior nahimu gayod nga nagmalampuson ang maong kalihukan.

Sunod nga ipahigayon ang 2012 Moral Recovery Program Congress sa syudad sa Ilo-ilo. (LGU-Butuan City/PIO/PIA-Caraga)

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Cebuano News: Mga hisgutanan sa 2011 Moral Recovery Congress, gibutyag

ni Ritchelle F. Encabo

BUTUAN CITY, Nob. 17 (PIA)
-- Atol sa gipahigayon nga 2011 Moral Recovery Program Congress, gihisgutan ang musunod: Moral, Spiritual Upliftment Transformative Convergence, The Seal of Good Housekeeping, Intercessors for the Phil. National Transformation, Ethical Standards of Government Officials Employees and the Prohibited Acts, Commitment for Change and Development and Education Values: Blueprint for Change.

Sumala sa gisangyaw ni Bishop Daniel Balais basi sa Ecclesiastes 3:1 nga naganayon “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the Heaven” kon adunay panahon sa tanang butang ug panahon alang sa tagsa-tagsa ka tuyo ilalom sa langit, nga aduna usab panahon para sa kabag-uhan. Ug ang kabag-uhan pwedeng mahitabo bisan kanus-a. Usbon na gayud ang mga hiwing palakad sa gobyerno ug ang hugtanong pagwagtang sa hisgutanang korupsyon, mga anumalusong transaksyon, ug ipadayon ang maayong pagtratar sa isig ka tawo ug ang pagtamud sa maayong pamatasan.

Nagmala-umon ang mga opisyales sa Butuan nga pina-agi niiining panagtigum makab-ot na gayod ang kabag-ohan nga gipaninguha sa Moral Recovery Program. (LGU-Butuan City/PIO/PIA-Caraga)

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Cebuano News: Lakbay-aral sa Dumingag, Zamboanga Del Sur mahitungod sa Organic Farming gipahigayon

ni Ritchelle F. Encabo

BUTUAN CITY, Nob. 17 (PIA)
-- Gipahigayon sa City Agriculturist Office ang Lakbay Aral- Sustainable Organic Farming didto sa Dumingag, Zamboanga Del Sur, niadtong Nobyembre 7-11, 2011, diin gipartisipahan kini sa mga Agricultural Technologists ug mga Farmer’s Association Leaders.

Ang munisipyo sa Dumingag, Zamboanga del Sur gi–ila isip usa ka Organic Agriculture Capital sa Mindanao. Ug tungod niini gihimo kining basihan ug sukaranan sa pagplano hangtud sa pag- implementar sa Organic Farming nganhi sa atong dakbayan.

Ang napatigbabaw sa maong Organic Farming mao ang ilang rice duck ug rice fish farming nga pipila na ka tuig nga gihanas sa maong nasangpit nga munisipyo.

Dako ang paglaom sa atong Halandong Mayor Jun Amante ug ni Engr. Alberto Buca, hepe sa City Agriculture nga pinaagi niini nga lakbay-aral mamahimong malampuson ug mamalahutayon unya nga pag-implementar sa Organic Farming dinhi sa dakbayan sa Butuan. (LGU-Butuan City/PIO/PIA-Caraga)

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Cebuano news: Pangulong Aquino mibiyahe didto sa Bali, Indonesia alang sa 19th ASEAN Summit

ni Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Nob. 17 (PIA)
– Si Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III mibiyahe ganina sa buntag aron motambong sa 19th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit didto sa Bali, Indonesia sugod Nobyembre 17 hangtod 19.

Ang chartered jet sa Pangulo migikan sa 250th Presidential Airlift wing didto sa Villamor Airbase, Paranaque City alas 8:00 sa buntag,

Sa iyang pre-departure speech, gipamahayag sa Pangulo ang importansya sa regional bloc, nga gimugna niadtong 1967, nga nagtinguha sa “creation of a cohesive, peaceful, stable and resilient region”.

“Lilinangin pa po natin sa pulong na ito ang mayaman nang ugnayan ng mga bansa sa rehiyon; at sama-samang tutugunan ang mga problemang kinakaharap natin sa kasalukuyan,” ang Pangulo miingon.

Kabahin sa mga isyu nga pagahisgutan atol sa Summit, ang Pangulo miingon, naglakip sa “migrant workers, trafficking in persons, maritime defense, and peace and security.”
Siya midugang nga ang Summit mohatag usab og kahigayunan aron mapalig-on dugang ang paghisgot tali sa mga partner nga nasod “China, Japan, Korea, India, Australia, ug America.”

“Susulitin natin ang mga oportunidad na ito upang plantsahin ang anumang gusot sa ating mga bansa, at upang patatagin pa ang ating samahan,” ang Pangulo miingon.


“Sa pakikipagpulong natin sa kanila, paiigtingin po natin ang pagtutulungan natin sa larangan ng maritime security, disaster management, pagsugpo ng mga krimen at terorismo, pangangalaga sa kalikasan at pakikipagkalakal,” siya midugang. (PIA-Surigao del Norte)

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Cebuano news: CFO-community education program malamposon nga gipahigayon

SURIGAO CITY, Nob. 17 (PIA)
-- Ang Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) malamposon nga mipahigayon sa ilang community education program on migration nga gitawag og “ Puluong-Pulong” niadtong miaging adlaw didto sa city auditorium ning syudad.

Ang maong kalihokan gitambongan sa mga Sangguniang Kabataan, opisyales sa Barangay, opisyales sa local civil registrar, Marriage counselors, Police Officer, Public Employment Service Officers, empleyado sa mga munisipyo, local government ug non- government organization representatives, ug potensyal migrants.

Ang maong kalihokan maoy tipik sa community education program sa CFO nga nagtinguha pag-asister niadtong mga adunay plano nga manimuyo sa laing nasod, lakip usab ang paglambigit sa komunidad kalabot na sa migration.

Kini usab nagtinguha aron mapaabot ug makahibalo ang publiko kalabot na sa nagkalain-laing mga isy sa migration, inter-marriages ug existing government policies ug mga programa directed against illegal recruitment ug trafficking. (PIA-Surigao del Norte)


PIA News Service - Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Nat’l Greening Program Summit set in Butuan

by Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 16 (PIA)
-- A one-day National Greening Program (NGP) Summit will be held on November 23, 2011 at the Almont Hotel's Inland Resort in this city.

The event is being organized by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture (DA) and Philippine Information Agency (PIA.

According to DENR-Caraga Regional Executive Director Leonardo Sibbaluca, the said NGP summit aims to identify advocates and build partnerships leading to a regionwide commitment and participation of various stakeholders in tree planting and long-term plantation stewards.

“Along with poverty reduction, resource conservation and protection, productivity enhancement, climate change mitigation and adaptation, the NGP is significantly given priority pursuant to Executive Order No. 26 of President Benigno S. Aquino III,” said Sibbaluca.

Sibbaluca also called on the local officials and employees of government to participate in all the activities related to this program to strengthen the preservation and proper use of the country’s environmental and natural resources.

For inquiries and clarification of this activity, the DENR can be reached at telephone numbers: (085) 342-7856; 341-3250; and cellphone number 0910-340-5832. Look for Ms. Jholyvil Cocon. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

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GADCC-Caraga spearheads 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women

by Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 16 (PIA)
-- The Regional Development Council - Gender and Development Coordinating Committee Caraga will spearhead the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women with the theme “UNITE: Stop VAW, Now!” on November 25 to December 12, 2011.

GADCC chairperson and Commission on Human Rights (CHR) Caraga Regional Director Atty. Marylin Pintor said that the 2008 National Demographic and Health Survey conducted among women aged 15-49, revealed that one in five women has experienced physical violence since age 15; and one in ten experience sexual violence.


Among women who have experienced physical or sexual violence, 26.9 percent fought back verbally, 21.2% fought back physically, and 17.5 percent sought help to try to stop the violence while of those who sought help to stop the violence, 45.1 percent went to their own family, 28.5 percent from friends and neighbors and 14.5 percent from in-laws.

“Against this backdrop, the Caraga RDC-Caraga with the Philippine Commission on Women and the Inter-Agency Council on Violence Against Women and their Children, agreed that the 2011 campaign to end VAW shall call on women to claim and defend their rights. It will focus on information dissemination about the anti-VAW laws, as well as the various services of government agencies and non-government organizations to address the needs of VAW survivors. It will build on the past initiatives, as well highlight aspects of VAW that need particular emphasis, e.g. the issue of VAW among deaf women and electronic VAW,” said Pintor.

The 2011 campaign shall also be a venue for a constructive dialogue among key government agencies and service providers on VAW like crisis centers, social workers, healthcare providers, police and alternative law groups, to discuss various aspects VAW; including gender-based violence issues raised to the UN CEDAW through the communications procedure of the CEDAW Optional Protocol.

Meanwhile, weeklong activities are also being readied by the committee for all the women and the general public to participate, as well as exercise their rights against violence. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

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EMB, DENR spearhead Nat’l Environmental Awareness celeb in Butuan

by Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 16 (PIA)
-- In line with the National Environmental Awareness Month celebration, the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) and Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Caraga will spearhead river clean-up and tree planting activities on November 18, 2011, 6:00a.m. at the Marcos Bridge, Barangay Libertad, this city.

According to EMB-Caraga OIC-Regional Director Ester Olavides, the activity is pursuant to Republic Act No. 9512 otherwise known as the "National Environmental Awareness and Education Act of 2008," an act to promote environmental awareness through environmental education.

Government agencies, non-government organizations, academe, and partner stakeholders will be participating in this activity.

Dir. Olavides called on participants to bring their own cleaning and planting materials during the activity.

The EMB-Caraga office can be reached at telephone numbers (085) 341-3826; 342-5332. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)


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Philippine Trade Unions Walk the “Green” Talk

by Fryan Abkilan

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Nov. 16 (PIA)
-- The Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) and Workers Development Foundation Inc. (WDFI) with support from the Japanese unions, together with 25 young trade union leaders from 17 local affiliated unions in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, joined the country’ countdown to Rio+20 with a National Workshop on Green Jobs and Decent Work, held here recently.

“Our engagement in green programs started with great optimism,” said Bro. Ernesto Herrera, TUCP General Secretary, recalling that in 2007 TUCP affiliates and members decided to carry out non-traditional (trade unions’) ambitious sustainable development actions and activities.

“We started with ambitious goals with a serious commitment for action. Looking back from where and how our engagements began, how much we’ve learned, and what we have accomplished to date, that green journey needs more action from trade unions,” pointed out Bro. Herrera.

Together with representatives from the Climate Change Commission (CCC), regional offices (Region 10) of the Department of Labour and the Regional Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB), the largest Japanese national center, the Japanese Trade Union Confederation (JTUC-RENGO), and the Japan International Labour Foundation (JILAF), the program looked at government’s current programs and initiatives on green jobs and appreciated actual, on-the-ground experiences, activities and green and greening programs of unions.

“We are happy to see the extent of engagement, the variety of activities and of how far Philippine unions have gone in green jobs and decent work,” said Bro. Yoshiharu Sonezaki, Assistant Director, Social Policy Division, Department of Economics and Social Policy, JTUC-RENGO.

Unions as major actors of sustainability

The participants put forward an urgent call for up-scaling current greening efforts, particularly providing more inclusive and sustainable avenues for unions’ participation in discussions, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of green jobs programs, projects and activities.


“Unions refuse to remain bystanders and will fully engage in this time of great environmental challenge. We will continue to participate, collaborate, contribute and make people, businesses and communities accountable for their (environmental) actions,” noted the participants.

Recognizing the importance of a multi-sectoral approach in addressing local climate change concerns, the participants called upon the Climate Change Commission (CCC) to engage workers and their unions in the implementation of the National Climate Change Action Plan.

As initial commitments to the campaign, the participants committed to partner with the Department of Labour and Employment (DOLE) and its regional boards (RTWPBs) in holding more enterprise-level green jobs advocacy activities, documenting unions’ green and greening practices and inclusions of green provisions in collective bargaining agreements.

Participants were from major target sectors such as services, telecommunication, transportation, manufacturing, mining, agriculture, academe, electronics, public sector and local media. (TUCP/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

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Feature: Philippine Red Cross of Agusan del Norte-Butuan City Chapter, a ceaseless service provider

by Maria Rebecca C. Ayaton

Inspired by its fundamental principles, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) of Agusan del Norte-Butuan City Chapter continues to reach out to the nation, stretching a helping hand that has a touch of love and commitment to do their remarkable service—saving lives.

Like all other chapters of the Philippine Red Cross, the Agusan del Norte-Butuan City Chapter is also doing its best in providing humanitarian services to the Agusanons.


The Philippine Red Cross is founded on seven fundamental principles: humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity and universality.

Blood Services

All year round, the local chapter staff collects blood thru bloodletting activities. There are times that the local chapter independently conduct a bloodletting activity or may conduct it by partnering with other agency. Many agencies have partnered with PRC because of its contagious desire in helping people.

Teodoro Cairo, Administrator of PRC Agusan del Norte-Butuan City Chapter, has urged Butuanons to donate blood to the needy--an act not only beneficial to oneself but to other people as well.

As of October 2011, the Butuan City Chapter has collected a total of 3,488 units of blood acquired from walk-in donors, patient-directed donors, replacement donors, and from mass bloodletting activities. It was on the month of March when the local chapter has collected the highest number of blood units.

Disaster Management Services

The local chapter also renders disaster management services (DMS). The DMS includes earthquake and fire drills, trainings on basic disaster management and eventually produced graduates of the said training.

Moreover, the local chapter, in partnership with the local government of Butuan, conducted a Bomb Simulation Drill last July of 2011 at Butuan City Hall. This was in line with the celebration of Disaster Consciousness Month. The conduct of the said drill was aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and preparedness of the constituents in responding to such kind of disaster.

On the first quarter of 2011 catastrophes took place in some barangays of the city and provinces in Agusan del Norte. The DMS handed relief goods to the affected families of Barangay Maug, Ignacio, Pangabugan, Bingkilan in Butuan City, and to the affected families from Doña Rosario, Tubay, Agusan del Norte. Other relief operations were also conducted in the month of March 2011.

Safety Services

The Safety Services arm of the PRC is aimed at educating the people on how to prevent accidents.

In the local chapter, the Safety Services committee has conducted lectures and trainings on Basic First Aid Training, Community First Aid Training, Basic Water Safety Training, First Aid and Basic Life Support for Adult Lay and Rescuers and Health Care Providers, First Aid Lecture Demonstration, Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Training, and Tailored First Aid Training.

These lectures and trainings were conducted in the elementary schools, high schools, health centers, government agencies and private agencies all throughout the province especially in the populated academe such as the national high schools like Agusan National High School in Butuan City, Agay National High School RCY Council, Remedios T. Romualdez, Agusan del Norte and among others.

The local chapter will re-do these activities over and over again for they will never get tired in keeping the people away from disasters and as well as preparing them in times of crises.

In addition, the local chapter had also organized First Aid Stations and Beach Patrol during the special events in the province that needs their service such as the 9th Baoto Festival 30km paddling marathon in Jabonga, Tanduay First Five Tour concert, 10th Chapterwide Youth Camp, and in 35th Milo Marathon 2011 last October.

Community Health and Nursing Services

In line with the the World Water Day Celebration last March the Community Health and Nursing Services Committee conducted hygiene promotion, proper hand washing and mass feeding activities at Sangay High School, Buenavista, and Colorado Elementary School, Jabonga, in this province to 2100 students.

Red Cross Youth

The Red Cross Youth (RCY) Council of the local chapter assisted in distributing relief goods to the different barangays of Butuan City and in other municipalities of Agusan del Norte during the time when the province was flooded last February and March 2011.


From October 6 to 9, 2011 the RCY Committee of the local chapter hosted the 10th Chapterwide Red Cross Youth Camp at Trinos Beach Resort, La Frateridad, Tubay Agusan del Norte participated by 1,139 Red Cross Youth members and 209 advisers from 108 school councils of Agusan del Norte and Butuan City.

Red Cross Youth members serve as the role models for the youth especially the children. For the past months, they are continually inculcating humanitarian values and character building to the youth through their efforts in assisting in relief operations, and through conducting lectures on in Leadership Formation Course, Drug Abuse Preventive Education, Pledge 25 Donor Orientation and Youth Volunteer Orientation Course in the principal schools in the province. (PIA-Caraga)

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Tagalog News: Information officers makikilahok sa MindaComNet Congress

ni Danilo S. Makiling

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 16 (PIA)
– Gaganapin ang 2011 Mindanao Communication Network (MindaComNet) Congress sa Nobyembre 28-30 sa Family Country Hotel, General Santos City.

Ayon kay Regional Director Abner M. Caga ng Philippine Information Agency, ito ay pagkakataon upang malaman ng mga information officers ang pinakabagong "global trend" sa larangan ng komunikasyon. Ito aniya ay makakatulong upang isulong ang adbokasiya ng pamahalaan.

Sa mga nais makilahok, maaring kontakin si Sempa Coronado ng PIA Central Mindanao sa telepono (083) 228-9739 o sa cellphone numbers 09194775200 at 09152888955.

Ang registration fee ay P3,600.00 na para sa miscellaneous expenses katulad ng kits, plaques, tokens para sa resource speakers, transportasyon at komunikasyon, at iba pa. (PIA–Caraga)

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Tagalog News: Pilipinas, nakatakdang magpresenta sa ASEAN Summit ng balangkas na nakabatay sa tuntunin tungkol sa pakikipagtungo sa pagtatalo sa West Philippine Sea

ni Maria Rebecca C. Ayaton

BUTUAN CITY, Nob. 16 (PIA)
-- Batay sa adbokasiya ni Pangulong Benigno Aquino III sa pagtataguyod ng “Zone of Peace, Freedom, Friendship and Cooperation (ZoPFF/C)” tungkol sa pagtatalo sa mga lugar ng West Philippine Sea (WPS), bibigyang diin ng gobyerno ng Pilipinas ang napaka-importanteng tungkulin ng mga miyembro ng Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) sa pagtukoy sa mga lugar nito na may mga pagtatalo para makapagtatag ng Joint Cooperation Area na inaasam naman ng administrasyong Aquino.

Sa pahayag ng kalihim ng Foreign Affairs na si Albert Del Rosario na inihatid naman ni Foreign Affairs Undersecretary for Policy na si Erlinda Basilio sa kasagsagan ng ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting na naganap kapaon sa Kintamani Room 6 ng Bali Nusa Dua Convention Center, Bali Indonesia, inulit ng pamahalaan ang paninindigan nito na “rule-based approach is the only legitimate way in addressing disputes in the West Philippine Sea” na dati ring nabanggit sa ASEAN Miniters’ Meeting sa noong Hunyo, 2011, Bali, Indonesia.

Nakasaad rin sa mensahe ang paniniwala ng bansa na ang ZoPFF/C ay isang maaksyunang balangkas na maglilinaw sa paghahati ng mga pinagtataluhang lugar at di pinagtataluhang katubigan ng West Philippine Sea at, sa proseso ay masolusyunan ang problema sa “nine-dash line”.

Ang “nine-dash line” ay isang mapa na nagpapakita ng linyang hugis “U” na nakapalibot sa halos kabuuan ng South China Sea na siyang ginagamit ng Tsina na dahilan na pag-aari nila ang nasabing lugar. Ang mapa ay labis na tinututulan ng ibang bansa kasama na ang Pilipinas at ito rin ay pinunahan ng pandaigdigang komunidad.

Ang proseso sa paghahahati ay magpapagana sa magagawang kooperasyon sa pagitan ng ASEAN at ng Tsina lalong lalo na ang mga kapampangang estado sa South China Sea.


Ipinaliwanag rin sa pahayag ni Del Rosario na ang ZoPFF/C ay naaalinsunod sa balangkas ng mga alituntunin sa pangangasiwa sa mga pagtatalo sa West Philippine Sea. Ito rin ay alinsunod sa nakabatay sa deklarasyon ng ASEAN-China sa “Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea”.

Nakasaad sa pahayag ni Del Rosario na: “We continue to pursue this framework and the embodied principles at every opportunity, as well as, to use appropriate avenues to exhaust all available means to settle the disputes within Asean. We strongly believe that an approach consistent with international law, specifically the United Nations Convention on the Laws of the Sea (UNCLOS).Thus, the Philippines will consider a parallel track of pursuing third party adjudication, arbitration or conciliation as may be appropriate in the context of the dispute settlement mechanism of UNCLOS”.


Sa pagdating ng Pangulo sa Bali kahapon, inaasahan na babanggitin ng Pangulo ang isyu ng ZoPFF/C bilang parte sa kanyang mga adbokasiya na sa diskusyon sa 19th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits 2011 na pormal na magbubukas bukas, Nobyembre 17, 2011.

Ang ZoPFF/C ay isang maagap na kontribusyon ng Pilipinas para sa ikabubuti ng lahat na bansa na may interes sa West Philippine Sea.

Idiniin ni Del Rosario na ang ASEAN ay hindi dapat mapag-aalinlangan at maging desidio sa mithiin at hangad nitong global na pamumuno.

Bukod sa mga miyembro ng ASEAN, inaasahan rin na dumalo ang mga matataas na pinuno ng ibang bansa na kasama bilang partner sa magaganap na dayalogo na pinangungunahan ng Pangulo ng Estados Unidos na si Barack Obama, Chinese Primier Wen Jiabao, Prime Minister ng Australia na si Julia Gillard, Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda, United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon at iba marami pang iba. (PIA-Caraga)

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Cebuano News: Aquino miaprobar sa P1.1-billion rehabilitasyon sa NAIA Terminal I

ni Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Nob. 16 (PIA)
-- Si Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III miaprobar na sa planong rehabilitasyon sa Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1 (NAIA 1), nga mopailawom sa structural ug aesthetical nga mga kabag-ohan, si Transportation and Communication Secretary Mar Roxas mianunsyo kagahapon Martes.

Si Roxas miingon atol sa media briefing didto sa Malacañang nga ang gobyerno sa kasamtangan migahin og P1.1 bilyones ka pesos alang sa pagtrabaho sa structural retrofitting, electro-mechanical engineering, ug interior design sa mga erya nga nagkinahanglan og rehabilitasyon.

Tipik sa pasiunang mga gasto naglakip sa P500 milyones alang sa aesthetics ug interior design, replacing floorings, ceilings ug walls ug partition. Ang DOTC usab mopuli ug modugang pa og 50 porsyento nga mga immigration counters, siya miingon.

Ang DOTC migahin og P300 milyones alang sa rapid exit taxi way aron maalibyohan ang paghuot sa runway ug makunhoran ang pagkadilatar sa pasahero, si Roxas miingon. Ug usab laing P20 milyones ang gigahin alang sa repair ug rehabilitasyon sa 72 ka mga kasilyas didto sa airport, sa iyang pagdugang.

Si Roxas usab miingon nga P340 milyones ang gigahin alang sa structural works aron pag-improb sa structural integrity sa maong pasilidad.

Ang DOTC mipabilin gihapon sa serbisyo sa Leandro Locsin and Associates, ang orihinal nga architectural ug engineering firm nga nagdisenyo sa Terminal 1, matud ni Roxas. Ang Locsin and Associates dunay as-built blueprint ug disenyo alang sa terminal mao nga mas mapadali ang rehabilitasyon sa maong terminal.

Sa samang bahin, si Roxas miingon ang gobyerno nakigtambayayong na sa mga eksperto nga mitukod sa Changi Airport aron mohatag sa ilang tabang kabahin na sa functional designs ug systems improvement sa Termianl 1.

Ang mga eksperto, nga moabot sa Pilipinas katapusan karong bulana, miuyon nga sila mahimong parte sa pagahimoong rehabilitasyon, si Roxas miingon. Ang maong mga eksperto mosusi ug moanalisar sa lugar lakip usab ang agay-agay sa pasahero ug ang gobyerno gitakdang makadawat sa resulta niini karong umaabot nga bulan sa Enero, siya midugang.

Ang NAIA Terminal 1 usa ka 30-anyos na nga airport, kini nakabaton sa dakong rehabilitasyon niadto pang 1996 diin ang mga world leaders miabot sa Pilipinas alang sa 1996 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooeperation (APEC) Summit. Ang maong terminal nga giablihan niadtong 1981, adunay orihinal nga passenger capacity nga 4.5 milyon ka mga pasehero matag tuig. Kini miabot na sa tukmang kapasidad niini niadtong 1991, si Roxas miingon.

Sa kasamtangan, kini modawat na sa 7.3 milyon ka mga pasahero matag tuig, ug sulod sa 20 ka tuig kini nagadawat sa dugang 56 milyon ka mga pasahero sobra sa gikatakda niini, sa dugang pamahayag ni Roxas.

Si Roxas miingon ang plano nga rehabilitasyon sa NAIA Terminal 1 wala gihimo tungod sa bag-ohay nga asister niini isip usa sa pinakadaot nga airport sa kalibutan. Siya miingon nga responsibilidad niini nga e-improb ang airport tungod sa prinsipyo nga “customers are always right.”

Si Roxas usab miklaro nga ang long-term plan nga pagbalhin sa NAIA didto sa Clarkfield sa Pampanga kini mag-agad lamang kung mahuman na ang NorthRail Project nga mobiyehe sa mga pasahero didto sa Clark gikan sa Manila.

Ang P1.1 bilyon nga alokasyon magagikan sa realigned budget sa DOTC ug Manila International Airport. Ang maong rehabilitasyon gikatakdang mahuman sulod sa 18 ka bulan. (PIA-Surigao del Norte)

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Cebuano News: Moralidad sa kapulisan nagpabilin taliwala pa man sa pagpinusilay sa 2 ka pulis sa Surigao del Sur

BUTUAN CITY, Nob. 16 (PIA)
-- Nagpabilin matud pa ang moralidad sa kapulisan sa Bayabas Municipal Police Station, Bayabas Surigao del Sur taliwala pa man sa natigayong pagpanusilay sa duha ka pulis niini.

Kini ang giklaro ni P/Chief Supt. Isagani Haneb, assistant regional director for operation sa Police Regional Office 13.

Sumala sa nasangpit nga opisyal, isolated case ang natigayong insidente nila P/Insp. Edgardo Dico, hepe sa maong police station og ni PO3 Lord Anthony Lerin.

Wala pagsinabtanay og dugayng panagbangi matud pa ang posibleng hinungdan sa panghitabo nga nidangat sa ilang kamatayon.

Alayon niini, mas gipalawman pa sa kapulisan ang pagpanubay sa maong hitabo hilabi na nga dili malikayan ang kakulian sa matag police station tungod usab sa kahago sa mga trabaho sa kapulisan nga posibleng modangat sa panaglalis.

Una ng gipaneguro sa naasuyng opisyal nga personal siyang modalikyat sa Bayabas Municipal Police Station aron masuta ang ugat-hinungdan sa pagpinusilay sa duha ka pulis.

Kahinumdumang dead-on-arrival ang hepe nga si Dico gahapon sa dihang gidala sa ospital samtang namatay usab si PO3 Lerin tungod sa naangkong samad-pinusilan niini sa abaga ug paa. (BR/PIA-Caraga)

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Cebuano News: PDEA-Caraga personnel, gipailawom sa random drug testing

BUTUAN CITY, Nob. 16 (PIA)
-- Gipailawom karon sa random drug testing ang tanang personahe sa Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency kon PDEA-Caraga.

Sigon ni PDEA-Caraga Regional Director Joel Plaza, tinuig kini nilang ginapahigayon sa ilang empleyado aron masigurong sa ilang buhatan mismo mapamatud-an ang ilang hugot nga pagkampanya batuk sa paggamit sa gidiling druga.

Dugang pa sa opisyal, mga representante sa PDEA-Region XI ang nagpahigayon sa nasangpit nga drug testing kondiin gikalipay sa ilang ahensya ang negatibong resulta sa tanang empleyado niini nga nagpasabot nga wala sila nagagamit sa gidiling druga.

Tungod niini, gi-congratulate ni Director Plaza ang iyang mga personahe og gilaumang magapadayon pa ang pagpakusog nila sa kampanya batuk sa illegal drugs ning rehiyon. (BR/PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Tuesday, November 15, 2011

Agusan del Norte has sufficient supply of relief goods

by Maria Rebecca C. Ayaton

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 15 (PIA)
-- Agusan del Norte province has sufficient supply of relief goods for distribution in times of calamity.

This was the statement made by Agusan del Norte Provincial Welfare and Development Officer Gloria Pabillore.

She said that Republic Act No. 10121 otherwise known as the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010 provides that appropriate funds should be allocated to buy relief goods in times emergency.

The official also said that the agency had given initial support like providing rice to the evacuees from the municipality of Kitcharao, which experienced flooding in the first quarter. (PIA-Caraga)

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PSWD continues to implement its various programs

by Maria Rebecca C. Ayaton

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 15 (PIA)
-- The Provincial Social Welfare and Development (PSWD) Office in Agusan del Norte is continuing its efforts in implementing various programs.

PSWD Officer Gloria L. Pabellore revealed that one of their priority programs today is the launching of medical outreach into the far flung barangays of the province.

This initiative aims to promote a healthy life by giving free health services to the poor people.

The official added that the Agusan del Norte PSWD is also constantly giving financial assistance to the poverty-stricken residents of Agusan del Norte through the implementation of Integrated Social Development Assistance Program (ISDAP).

However, the official said that it is inevitable that some people who are not residents of Agusan del Norte will ask for assistance. But the Agusan del Norte PSWD cannot refer such cases to the DSWD Regional Office. (MRA with reports from RGE/PIA-Caraga)

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NEDA and Surigao del Norte LGU to hold area plan validation workshop

SURIGAO CITY, Nov. 15 (PIA)
-- The provincial government of Surigao del Norte and National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Caraga Regional Office are set to hold an Area Plan 2011-2016 validation workshop for Siargao and Bucas Grande Islands on Nov. 17, this city.

Provincial Planning and Development Coordinator Arturo Cruje said the activity aims to solicit comments and suggestions from the Siargao Island local chief executives and planners to finalize the draft Area Plan.

“Their inputs to details or specifics on the targets, programs, projects and activities of the said plan are very important and crucial,” he said.

Cruje said they have invited the municipal mayors and Municipal Planning and Development Coordinators of Siargao Island to attend the said activity which will promptly start at 9:00a.m. at Guyam Function Room, Gateway Hotel.

He further revealed that the Siargao and Bucas Grande Islands Area Planning is a special project of NEDA through Director General Cayetano W. Paderanga and provincial government through Governor Sol Matugas. (PPDO/FEA/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

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DAR turns over water system to Tubod

by Joie L. Ceballos

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 15 (PIA)
-- The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) turned over Tuesday a potable water supply system to Brgy. San Isidro in Tubod, Surigao del Norte.

Costing P3.34 million, the project which includes installation of 34 units of communal faucets will provide clean drinking water to about 248 households of Tubod Agrarian Reform Community (ARC).

The project is under the Agrarian Reform Infrastructure Support Project-Phase III (ARISP-III) of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in partnership with the Local Government Unit of Tubod, Surigao Norte.

DAR Regional Director Faisar Mambuay expressed his gratitude to all partners --- Hon. Congressman Guillermo Romarate Jr., Hon. Gov. Sol Matugas, Hon. Mayor Cristina Arcillas for the support in realizing this project for the agrarian reform beneficiaries. (DAR-13/PIA-Caraga)

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Tagalog News: Phil. Red Cross mangunguna sa gaganaping “Million Volunteer Run”

ni Danilo S. Makiling


BUTUAN CITY, Nob. 15 (PIA) -- Idadaos ng Philippine Red Cross (PRC) sa Disyembre 4, 2011 ang “Million Volunteer Run.” Ito ay gaganapin sa lahat ng siyudad at munisipalidad sa bansa.

Ang nasabing aktibidad tugon sa deklarasyon ng United Nation sa taong 2011 bilang pandaigdigang taon ng boluntarismo at ang selebrasyon ng internasyonal na araw ng mga boluntaryo kada 5th ng Disyembre.

“Ito ay ang pagtukoy sa kultura ng bolunterismo sa ating bansa – ang isang kultura na isasalba sa ating bansa at mga tao sa mga kalamidad,” ayon kay PRC chairman Richard J. Gordon.

Ang registration fee ay P500 para sa mga propesyonal at P350 para sa mga magaaral.

Ang perang malilikom ay gagamitin upang pondohan ang mga programa ng pagsasanay sa 143 na mga boluntaryo. Ang bawat kalahok ay bibigyan ng Milyon Volunteer Run t-shirt, 143 ID sa Disaster Preparation Guide, isang whistle, race number, at Red Cross Membership at Accident Insurance Benefits or coverage.

Sinabi ng PRC chairman na dahil sa ang Pilipinas ay binibisita ng natural na sakuna sa buong taon, ang mga tao ay dapat na mabigyan na sapat na lakas kaagapay ng mga sundalo handa sa mga kasanayan sa pagsagip ng buhay at pagtulong sa mga tao. Para sa kadahilanang ito, ang mga kalahok ng Run ay bibigyan ng training matapos ang aktibidad.

Dagdag pa ni Gordon, ang pinakamabuting preparasyon sa mga disasters ay ang pagbibigay kaalaman sa mga tao sa risk reduction management.

Ang Red Cross 143 volunteers ay punong programa na nag-recruit at nag-train ng 44 katao sa bawat barangay .

Samantala, si Teodoro Cairo, chapter administrator ng PRC Agusan del Norte-Butuan City chapter ay tumatawag sa lahat ng butuanons na lumahok sa aktibidad at gumawa ng kasaysayan. Para sa karangdagang detalye sa gaganaping Million Volunteer Run, bisitahin lamang ang PRC website: www.redcross.org.ph o ang Red Cross Chapter sa Capitol Site, o di kaya ay tumawag sa telephone numbers 342-8521 or 815-9977. (PIA-Caraga)

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Cebuano News: GSIS ug Pag-IBIG mipirma og kasabotan alang sa mga empeyado sa gobyerno ug mga pensioners

ni Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Nob. 15 (PIA)
-- Ang opisyales sa Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) ug ang Home Development Mutual Fund (MDMF), o gitawag nga PAG-IBIG Fund, mipirma kagahapon Lunes og usa ka credit facility agreement nga diin ang GSIS mohatag og P5 billion sa PAG-IBIG aron e-finance ang housing loans sa mga miyembro ug pensioners niini.

Ang maong kalihokan gipangulohan nila GSIS President ug General Manager Robert Vergara ug HDMF Chief Executive Officer Darlene Berberabe, diin kini subay sa desisyon sa GSIS niadtong Abril nga dili nalang niini ipadayon ang direct house lending program tungod sa kulang kaalam niini.

Si Vergara miingon ang desisyon nagtumong sa pag-usa sa ilang “efforts in the implementation of the government housing program and to avoid duplication with the KSA’s (key shelter agencies) functions.”

“More importantly, this agreement proves that the pension fund continues to be a vehicle for realizing the homeownership dream of our stakeholders in our role as a partner of Pag-IBIG,” siya namahayag.

Ang pagpirma sa Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) gisaksihan nila Vice President ug kasamtangang Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC) Chairman Jejomar Binay, GSIS Executive Vice President for Finance Sector Benedicto Jose Arcinas, ug HDMF Deputy Chief Executive Officer for Support Services Cluster Emma Linda B. Faria.

Ang GSIS sukad pa niadtong 1950’s nagatanyag na og housing loan sa mga miyembro niini, apan ang kasamtangan Board nagdesisyon nga tangtangon kini gikan sa pension fund operations sa gobyerno tungod sa kakulang sa kahanas paghimo niini.

Sa miaging tuig, ang GSIS nakapahulam lamang og P600 million sa housing loans sa mokabat 500 ka mga miyembro niini kumpara sa mokabat P5.5 billion nga napahulam sa PAG-IBIG fund sa mokabat 11,000 ka mga empleyado sa gobyerno.

Si Vergara usab mibutyag nga katunga sa ilang housing loan portfolio, nga mokabat 16,000 ka mga housing units, ang mamoro na o nakanselar.

“It has been a difficult decision for us to stop direct home lending for our members but we are, above all, obligated to them to ensure that their contributions are managed prudently for their greater benefit,” siya miingon.

Ang hepe sa GSIS midugang nga sila mihangyo na sa PAG-IBIG sa pagbutang og special lane alang sa mga miyembro sa GSIS ug mga pensioner aron pagproseso sa ilang housing loans. (PIA-Surigao del Norte)

PIA News Service - Monday, November 14, 2011

PIA-Caraga chief urges gov’t info officers to join MindaComNet Congress

by Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 14 (PIA)
-- Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Northeastern Mindanao Information Cluster Head and concurrent Regional Director of PIA-Caraga Region Abner M. Caga is inviting all government information officers to participate in the 2011 Mindanao Communicators Network (MindaComNet) Congress on November 28-30 at the Family Country Hotel, General Santos City.

During Monday’s regular staff meeting with PIA-Caraga personnel, Dir. Caga emphasized the importance for information officers in the government agencies to participate in the three-day congress.

Caga said the activity will not only serve as a venue to boost the camaraderie among government information officers of Mindanao but most especially to enrich the knowledge of government communicators of the latest global trends, as well as the topics and issues to help them create the right communication advocacies in implementing government programs in the ground.

The head of the Northeastern Mindanao information cluster also pointed out that with the latest happenings putting the whole island of Mindanao in negative perspective, it is but necessary that as government communicators, “we need to counter those negative information which is broadcasted and printed in private media stations and outfits…This is our role as government information officers,” Caga stressed.

Meanwhile, those who are interested to participate may contact Sempa Coronado of PIA Central Mindanao through (083) 228-9739 or at cellphone numbers 09194775200 and 09152888955.

A registration fee of P3,600 will cover miscellaneous expenses such as kits, plaques, tokens for the resource speakers, mobilization and communication expenses, office supplies, among others. (PIA-Caraga)

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Skills training-workshop on HIV, AIDS set in Butuan

by Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 14 (PIA)
-- A Life Skills Training-Workshop on HIV and Aids in the Challenges of the New Era will be held on November 25-26, 2011 at the Prince Hotel, this city.

This will be sponsored by the Caraga Youth Leaders' Network Inc. (CYLN), Office of the Vice President for External Affairs of the United Nations Youth Association of the Philippines (UNYAP), and Institute for Youth Development Affairs of the Philippines in partnership with AIDS Society of the Philippines, Department of Health, and Commission on Higher Education.

The objectives of the training are: 1) To equip young leaders, educators, and advocates on the necessary skills to acquire in HIV & AIDS education; 2) To input new data on AIDS victims and on the progress of AIDS vaccine; and 3) To produce more advocates to fight the spread of HIV among the public particularly the youths.

Mr. Rex F. Ybanez , CEO of CYLN and Vice President for External Affairs emhasized that the local government units and the academe must take a serious step to fight the spread of the HIV. All regions of the country are reporting AIDS patient, which Caraga is not included.

"HIV/AIDS is a serious issue. The public must have appropriate education with regards to HIV and its particulars. The youth must be given focus by the Local Government Units for they are the most vulnerable or most at risk to the HIV," Ybañez stressed.

The participants of said training are the Sanguniang Kabataan, Supreme Student Government (SSG) officers, educators, nurses, and others.

CYLN, Inc. is the sole, largest and leading regional non-government organization (NGO) which focuses to the advancement of Caraganon youth development affairs in Caraga Region, Northern Mindanao, Philippines.

For more details, Ybañez encourages interested parties to call their office at the 4th Floor, Commission on Population (PopCom) Caraga Regional Office, Balebria Building, Pili Drive Street, this city at telephone number (085) 346-9842.

Others may also visit the CYLN blogspot at www.caragayouthleadersnetworkinc.blogspot.com or e-mail them at cyln_caraga@yahoo.com.ph. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

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SEC to conduct seminar-workshop on campus journalism

by Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 14 (PIA)
– In an effort to develop the writing skills of its campus journalists, Surigao Education Center (SEC), the only school in Surigao City certified by the International Organization for Standardization, (ISO) will conduct a two-day seminar-workshop on campus journalism on November 17-18 in Surigao City.

In a statement, Prof. Joewaren Sulima, SEC training officer said the activity aims to make the editorial staff, school paper advisers and teachers from grade school to college departments become competent and responsible campus journalists--from news data gathering, writing, to releasing of school paper on time.

Prof. Sulima also said the teachers and school paper advisers shall be able to know the current trends and issues in campus journalism in order for them to uphold the value of integrity and responsibility in writing news, opinions and events.

Further, Sulima said pupils and students would be able to fully understand their role and responsibility in campus journalism as a reliable media in school.

The school’s training officer also said students and teachers would be able to enhance and refresh their writing ability through the workshop, as well as to improve the quality of the campus paper based on the new trends and update of journalism.

Invited speakers are Provincial Information Center Managers of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) in Caraga Region.

PIA Surigao del Norte Information Center Manager Fryan E. Abkilan will discuss on News Writing while David M. Suyao, Information Center Manager of Agusan del Sur Provincial Information Center will discuss on Editorial Writing, Feature Writing and Photojournalism.

To complete the journalism activities, the participants will be trained on a computer based Layouting using Adobe InDesign CS3 software. Afterwhich, the finished product will be uploaded in a web hosting for the electronic type of document. This is one of the latest innovations in as far as quad media is concerned, producing electronic newspapers, magazines, newsletters, campus papers, and the like.

With these developments, Sulima hoped that after the training, editorial staff school paper advisers will be able to produce quality school paper as they adhere in writing balanced news, issues, opinions and events in responsible campus journalism. (PIA-Caraga)

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Whirlwind hits Brgy. Victoria in Tago, Surigao del Sur

by Nida Grace B. Tranquilan

SURIGAO DEL SUR, Nov. 14 (PIA)
-- A whirlwind, locally known as “ipo-ipo” hit Barangay Victoria in Tago, this province at around 8:45 am on Sunday, the local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (DRRMC) reported.

According to Norberto Lorente, Provincial DRRMC staff who conducted an ocular inspection after the incident, one waiting shed and an unfinished house made of light materials was reported totally damaged, while part of the roof of some houses were flown away due to strong wind.

According to Lorente, no injured was recorded during the phenomenon. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)



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Gordon ignites Filipinos’ sense of volunteerism

by Maria Rebecca C. Ayaton

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 14 (PIA)
-- The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) has set December 4, 2011 for the conduct of “Million Volunteer Run,” which will be held simultaneously in all key cities and municipalities in the country.

The activity is in line with the United Nations' declaration of 2011 as the International Year of Volunteers and the annual celebration of International Day of Volunteers every 5th of December.

PRC Chairman Richard J. Gordon, who conceptualized the event, is also advocating the sense of volunteerism in the heart of every Filipino.

Gordon said the volunteer run will be seen as the unity of the nation’s volunteers by running together for the sake of humanity.

"It will be the defining moment for a culture of volunteerism in our country--a culture that will save our country and our people from the horrors of disasters,” Gordon said.

The registration fee is P500 for professionals and P350 for students. Proceeds of the Run will be used to fund the training program of the 143 volunteers. Each participant will be given Million Volunteer Run t-shirt, 143 ID with Disaster Preparedness Guide, a whistle, race number, and Red Cross Membership with Accident Insurance Benefits or coverage.

On the other hand, participants of the Million Run will also be registered as Red Cross 143 volunteers. They will be trained later on disaster management.

Meanwhile, the PRC chairman said that since the Philippines is visited with natural catastrophes all year-round, the people must be empowered with humanitarian soldiers equipped with life-saving skills to help others. For this reason, the participants of the Run will be given trainings after the event.

Gordon added that the best way to prepare for disasters is to train and immerse the people on risk reduction management.

The Red Cross 143 volunteers is a flagship volunteer program that recruits and trains 44 volunteers in every barangay on disaster management including disaster risk reduction and disaster response.

In a related development, Teodoro Cairo, Chapter Administrator of PRC Agusan del Norte-Butuan City Chapter is calling all the Butuanons to participate in the said event and make a history.



For further details of the Run, visit PRC website: www.redcross.org.ph or visit the Red Cross Chapter at Capitol Site, Butuan City with telephone numbers 342-8521 or 815-9977. (PIA-Caraga)

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PDEA files cases against 21 illegal drug pushers in Agusan del Sur

by David M. Suyao

AGUSAN DEL SUR, Nov. 14 (PIA)
-- The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) has filed cases of illegal drug-related crimes against 21 individuals from Agusan del Sur ending their third quarter operations here.

The arrested suspects whose cases are now filed in court came from the municipalities of Bayugan- 4; Bunawan-1; La Paz-3; Prosperidad-1; San Francisco-6, Sibagat-2; Talacogon- 1; Trento-2 and; Veruela-1.

Among the illegal drugs found in their possession were Methamphetamine hydrochloride or “Shabu” and marijuana, according to reports by PDEA.

“These offenders were arrested thru our buy-bust operations, inflagrante de licto, search warrant and during the conduct of checkpoints. But in our assessment, the situation is just moderate if we compare it in seriously affected areas where there is existence of drug laboratories, warehouse, den drive, resort, marijuana plantation or similar establishment," PDEA OIC-Regional Director Joel Plaza said.

"As per our surveillance also, the sources of drugs transported here came from Manila, Cebu, Marawi, Ozamis, Iligan, Cotabato and Davao, and the landing points of these ilegal drugs are in Manila, Cebu, Davao, Marawi, Ozamis and Cotabato,” he added.

According to Dir. Plaza, in just a matter of one month, they had two significant accomplishment recorded. On June 8, together with the joint elements of Regional Special Operations Task Group, 13th Regional Public Safety Management Battalion, La Paz Municipal Police Station, they uprooted Marijuana Plants at Sitio Umayam, Brgy Kasapa II, La Paz, Agusan del Sur approximately 532 fully grown marijuana plants and 1000 seedlings with a value of Php156,400.

“Again, on July 8, another 5,188 fully grown Marijuana plants were uprooted and immediately burned at the plantation site by joint elements of PDEA RO 13, RPSB 13, RSOTG 13, 26th IB PA, and 402nd Brigade PA at Sitio Mactan, Brgy. Kasapa I, Agusan del Sur with an estimated value of PhP 1,074,200.00,” Dir. Plaza said.

Presently, according to Dir. Plaza, his office is focusing on watch listed/target listed personalities, activation or reactivation of Anti-Drug Abuse Councils in the barangay, city, municipal and provincial levels in support of overall government efforts to address illegal drugs and intensifying info drive campaign/drug abuse prevention symposia by tapping other sectors of the society which would serve as one of our catalysts and partners in making Caraga a drug free region. (PIA-Agusan del Sur)

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DAR Surigao Norte to turn-over potable water supply system in Tubod

by Edilberto Odvina

SURIGAO DEL NORTE, Nov. 14 (PIA)
-- The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) - Surigao del Norte together with Agrarian Reform Infrastructure Support Project (ARISP) is set to turn-over a Potable Water Supply System Level II on Tuesday, November 15 at San Isidro Barangay Hall, Tubod, this province.

DAR Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer PARO-II Teresita E. Depeñoso said the project costs around P3,345,004, “with the funding source from DAR-ARISP III costing around Php 1,674,764 and LGU of Tubod for Php 1,670,240 as equity.”

Depeñoso also said the Potable Water Supply System will be implemented by LGU Tubod and it is located in Barangay San Isidro, Tubod town.

“Soon to cater 220 households and being contracted with BILCO Construction in the amount of Php. 2,222,697.57 which scope of work was the construction of Intake Box and Ground Reservoir; Installation of Transmission and Distribution pipes and 34 units of communal faucets,” she added.

The ceremonial turn-over will start with the blessing of the completed PWS project and unveiling of project billboard and to follow the cutting of ribbon by Gov. Sol F. Matugas; 2nd district Rep. Congressman Guillermo A. Romarate Jr.; Tubod Mayor Cristina Hemady R. Arcillas; DAR Caraga Director Faisar A. Mambuay, CESO IV; National Project Manager - ARISP III Director Ma. Celerina G. Afable; ARISP III Technical Coordinator Engr. Mel Lamboon, and Team Leader Project Consultant Mr. Yukihiro Kawahara.

The second part is the ceremonial program proper in which the introduction of guest and participants will be conducted by MARO Venancia S. Signar of DARMO-Tubod; Presentation of project profile by Municipal Engineer Jocelyn Macarayo and follows the project Turn-over Key of Responsibility and Signing Certificate of Turn-Over and Acceptance with the Contractor, DAR, MLGU in the person of Mayor Arcillas and Barangay Captain Carmelito R. Arado of BLGU.

Inspirational Messages will also be given by Gov. Matugas; Cong. Romarate; Dir. Mambuay; Dir. Afable and Mr. Kahawar then lunch will follow after the program. (DAR-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

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TUCP trains new breed of young CBA negotiators

MANILA, Nov. 14 (PIA)
-- With scores of anti-union actions happening all over the world, particularly assaults on security of tenure and collective bargaining, the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) and Workers Development Foundation Inc, (WDFI), with assistance from the international labour movement, the International Trade Union Confederation-Asia Pacific (ITUC-AP), takes on the challenge of preparing young trade union leaders for their important roles in the labour movement.

“It’s very reassuring to see many young trade leaders get excited and ready over learning new things, building their negotiation and bargaining skills, taking on higher roles in their unions and the labour movement in general,” noted Bro. Ernesto Herrera, TUCP General Secretary.

TUCP and its affiliates get a boost of youthful energy as 25 promising young trade union leaders, industrial relations officers and collective bargaining negotiators from the academe, electronics, agriculture, services, public sector, transportation, and partner local media in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, get updated on collective bargaining developments, and trained on strategies and techniques in collective bargaining and negotiation.

“With many developments in industrial relations, challenges on union organizing and collective bargaining/negotiation, this training could not have come at a more perfect time!,” said Bro. Herrera.

The program, developed in partnership with the ITUC-AP, introduced the participants to the collective bargaining process, preparing for negotiations, collective bargaining methods and approaches, and understanding strategies, tactics and counter demands.



“This training taught us many things from the basics of industrial relations, bargaining realities, use and analyses of statistics and many more,” said Ferdinand Sornes, union vice president of an electronics company in Region IV.

“This will surely help my union improve, enrich and strengthen our bargaining position in years to come,” Sornes added.

Various hands-on exercises provided the participants with an opportunity to get familiar with and further build their working knowledge and skills in analysing company’s financial information; computing for wage increases and shares in gains in productivity; developing, costing and presenting bargaining proposals.

“Just as the actual negotiation is important, the focus on total preparation for negotiating has never been more important,” said Nicandro Borja, ALU-TUCP regional vice president, reminding the participants that the bargaining process, its outcomes and successes would primarily depend on how well the union prepared.

“It is important that unions know where to get financial documents and analyse them properly.” We were able to include in our CBA a provision regarding union’s right/access to information (such as financial statements), shared Vanessa Acenas, a local union auditor of a water district company in Mindanao.

In the mock negotiation, the participants practiced newly-acquired negotiation styles and techniques, effective communication skills and proper use of data and information in justifying their CBA proposals, under the guidance of veteran trade union leaders and negotiators.

Experts and resource persons from the Department of Labour and Employment (DOLE) and Bureau of Labour and Employment Statistics (BLES) provided information on trends and developments in collective bargaining negotiation and up-to-date analyses of (2009) negotiated CBAs. (TUCP/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

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Cebuano News: Aquino miingon kumpanya sa Estados Unidos mosugod pagdebelop sa natural gas sa aminahang bahin sa Pilipinas sunod tuig

ni Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Nob. 14 (PIA)
-- Si Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III mianunsyo niadtong Biyernes nga usa ka kumpanya sa Estados Unidos ang magsugod sa pag debelop og natural gas didto sa aminahang bahin sa Pilipinas sunod tuig.

Si Pangulong Aquino mihimo niining maong anunsyo atol sa diskusyon sa panel sa commodity security for economic growth didto sa Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) CEO summit nga gipahigayon didto sa Sheraton Waikiki Hotel sa Honolulu, Hawaii.

“In terms of energy, we are second to America in exploiting geothermal resources. We have managed to have several other countries sharing the expertise that we do already have,” ang Pangulo miingon sa iyang tubag sa dihang siya gipangutana atol sa maong diskusyon.

“There is a new field that is going to start next year by an American company in the northern portion of the Philippines. There’s substantial gas deposits that we believe are already on the proven scale that will dwarf the existing Malampaya oil fields,” siya midugang.

Ang Pangulo miingon nga pipila niini ka mga kayutaan ang parte pa sa giawayan nga mga erya ug nga ang Pilipinas sa pagkakaron mihimo na sa pagtino kon kini nahisubay ba sa United Nations Convention on Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Si Pangulong Aquino usab midayag sa iyang pagsalig nga ang tanang signatory-countries mosanong sa gitakda sa UNCLOS, nga ang usa ka nasod adunay exclusive economic zone nga 200 miles gikan sa continental shelf niini.
“We are hoping that all the signatories of the United Nations Convention will adhere to the stipulations of the convention and among them are the 200-mile exclusive economic zone,” siya miingon.

Ang Pangulo usab miingon nga aduna usab “various mechanisms” aron mahusay ang isyu sa giawayan nga mga erya “once and for all” ug aron maangkon ang resources nga makabenipisyo dili lamang sa Pilipinas apan lakip usab ang silingang mga nasod. (PIA-Surigao del Norte)