(PAGASA 24-HOUR PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST as of Wednesday, 27 March 2024) Easterlies affecting the eastern section of the country. Butuan City, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Norte and Surigao del Sur will experience Partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms due to Easterlies / Localized Thunderstorms. Possible flash floods or landslides during severe thunderstorms.


PIA News Service - Sunday, January 6, 2013


DSWD finishes 2012 with 99% Kalahi-CIDSS fund utilization

By Kent John O. Bolisay

BUTUAN CITY, Jan. 6 (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Caraga closed the year 2012 with a near-perfect fund utilization for its anti-poverty project called Kalahi-CIDSS.

This was learned during the project’s year-end assessment and evaluation meeting last December.

A total of P135,771,894.53 was utilized by beneficiary communities from the P136,979,959.78 that was released and downloaded directly to community accounts.

“We were projecting a hundred percent fund disbursement at the start of 2012 but with the variety of sub-projects the communities are implementing, there are those that need facilitating payment of contract works,” Mita G. Lim said, DSWD Caraga assistant regional director for operation and project manager.

With this accomplishment, the regional project management office of Kalahi-CIDSS is shifting to full gear as barangays are getting ready for the completion of their respective sub-projects or infrastructures for proper turn over in the first quarter of 2013.

The year 2012 saw three “phases” of Kalahi-CIDSS implemented in 139 barangays in 16 municipalities in the region.

Lim added that 139 sub-projects or infrastructures are almost ready to be inaugurated and be accessed by both volunteers and community residents once the remaining funds are fully utilized and closing of community accounts are facilitated. (NCLM/DSWD-13/PIA-Caraga)


Tagalog news: 24 dating rebelde sa Agusan del Sur tumanggap ng tulong pangkabuhayan

Ni Melody de Vera

PATIN-AY, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur, Jan. 6 -- Dalampu’t apat na dating rebelde (RR) ang tumanggap ng tulong pangkabuhayan na nagkahalaga ng P50,000 bawat isa mula sa Social Integration Program (SIP) ng pamahalaan na sakop ng Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) na isinagawa sa session hall ng Sangguniang Panlalawigan sa kapitolyo.

Ang naturang pag aabot ng tulong ay isinagawa ni Bise Gob. Santiago Cane Jr. na siyang kumatawan kay Gob. Adolph Edward Plaza at ito ay sinaksihan nina Brig. Gen. Nestor Añonuevo, hepe ng 4th Infantry Division, Col. Romeo Ramon, 401st Brigade Deputy Commander, Lt. Col. Jose Leonard Gille, 26th Battalion Commander, S/Supt. Glenn dela Torre, PNP Provincial Director, DILG Provincial Director Arleen Ann Sanchez at ng hepe ng Provincial Correctional Services Management Office na si Josefina Bajade.

Sa pakikipanayam kay Bajade na dating hepe na Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWD), sinabi nito na ang tulong pangkabuhayan ay binibigay sa mga rebeldeng isinuko ang mga armas at bumalik sa pamahalaan noong 2010 at 2011. Ang mga ito ay nakatanggap din noon ng tig P20,000 noong sila ay sumuko bilang panandaliang tulong.

Bilang pagiging isa sa mga pangunahing programa ng pamahalaan para makamit ang tunay na kapayapaan, ang pamahalaang panlalawigan, sa pamamagitan ng PSWDO na noon ay pinamamahalaan ni Bajade, ay nagbigay ng pagkain, tirahan, edukasyon at teknikal na pagsasanay bilang pangunahing tulong sa mga dating rebelde.

Sa mga ibinigay na tulong pangkabuhayan at tulong ng pamahalaang panlalawigan, umaasa si Cane gagamitin ito ng mga dating rebelde sa kanilang pagbabagong buhay at magiging produktibong mamamayan. Iminungkahi rin ni Cane na sila ay magtanim ng mga piling pananim tulad ng prutas, gulay, at kahoy na siyang iminumungkahi rin ng pamahalaang panlalawigan at suportahan ang upland Sustainable Agro-forestry Development Program o USAD.

“Bawat mamamayang Pilipino ay mayroong obligasyon para makamit natin ang tunay na kapayapaan sa ating bansa. Kaya hindi natin dapat hintayin kung ano ang magagawa ng pamahalaan sa atin. Bagkos, ang dapat nating isaisip ay mayroon tayong responsibilidad para makamit natin ang kapayapaan at masaganang pamumuhay na siya nating pinakapangarap,” sabi ni Cane.

Ang mga tumanggap ng tulong pangkabuhayan ay ang mga sumusunod: Jacquilyn Fernando ng Sta. Teresa, Loreto; Marjun Campos ng Tandang Sora, Esperanza; Roel Librero ng Afga, Sibagat; Danilo Gomez ng Coalicion, San Luis; Arin Matebulig ng San Pedro, San Luis; Gomez Cogit, Lito Cogit, Ansogal Guinumbay, Domingo Domelin, Richard Handayan, Juanito Malumogdong Jr., Edwin Leganio, Mampahina Lucdayan, Mayadi Madanay, Sammy Mansal-agan, Kaking Sadangga at Birmo Tambagan, lahat ay galling sa Binicalan, San Luis; Danilo Balamban at Rodel Gonzales ng Kasapa 2, La Paz; at Lagno Mandanay ng Angeles, La Paz, Agusan del Sur habang sina Jerome Salonga, Richard Gonzales, Jimmy Butron and Joseph Butron ay galing Los Angeles, Butuan City.

Bilang pagkilala sa kabutihang pinakita sa kanila, ang mga dating rebelde ay nagpasalamat sa ibinigay na pagkakataon ng pamahalaan sa kanila at sa kanilang pagtalikod sa karahasan at pakikibaka. (DMS/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

PIA News Service - Friday, January 4, 2013


PAO lawyers receive raise in monthly honorarium

By Junesther Jean S. Iway and Eldie N. David

BUTUAN CITY, Jan. 4 (PIA) – Lawyers from the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) got a post-Christmas treat as the Sangguniang Panlungsod has approved the increase in their monthly honorarium from the City government of Butuan.

The monthly honorarium of PAO lawyers was increased from P2,500 to P4,000.

Fortun, who is also a lawyer, said the increase in honorarium was justified as PAO lawyers absorb much of the cases of people who cannot afford to hire a private-practicing lawyer. The pay increase is a gesture of gratitude on the part of the of the city government for PAO lawyers. (Vice Mayor’s Office/LGU-Butuan/PIA-Caraga)


Top 10 2012 news highlights featured in Pagtuki

CEBU, Jan. 4 (PIA) - The December 30 episode of “Pagtuki,” the official radio program of Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI), wraps up the top ten news makers of 2012―from big political names, current events to weather forecast, among others.

The suspension of Cebu Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia tops the list. Garcia asked the Court of Appeals to stop the suspension order against her that stemmed from an administrative case in 2010.

Garcia said that police could only stop her if they will physically drag her out from her office. The Cebu police, however, said they would not physically remove Garcia from her office unless ordered.

Garcia still continues to “hole up” in her office from December until now.

Second is the canonization of Pedro Calungsod. Filipinos followed the journey to sainthood of Blessed Pedro Calungsod, who officially became a saint last Oct. 20 in a ceremony officiated by Pope Benedict XVI in Vatican, Rome. Saint Pedro Calungsod is a Visayan teenage Catholic missionary who died a martyr in Guam.

Third, super typhoon Pablo caused havoc in areas in Mindanao. Based on the records of National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), typhoon Pablo has destroyed P36.95 billion worth of infrastructure, agricultural products and private properties. The death toll from the typhoon stayed at 1, 067 while 834 persons are still missing.

Thousands of people remain homeless after Pablo brought flash floods that wiped out the affected areas.

In Cebu City, classes and work were suspended on Dec. 4 and 5 in all school levels and government offices. The mayor also held a meeting with the Disaster Risk Reduction Management (DRRM) Council.

The earthquake and the false tsunami alert in Cebu last February 2 ranks fourth. People ran to the streets, cars were abandoned, and traffic was jammed after reports of rising seawater in the coastal areas of Cebu City.

The panic was due to a tsunami scare brought about by the 6.9-magnitude earthquake that hit Cebu and Negros islands.

The passage of the Reproductive Health Bill places fifth. The House of Representatives approved the bill last December, which had been certified as “urgent” by President Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino Jr.

The church continues its futile campaign against the move since it has now been made in a law.

On sixth spot is the death of then Department of Local and Interior Government Secretary Jesse Robredo. His lifeless body was recovered at the crash site off the coast of Masbate City last Aug. 18.

Pilot Captain Jessup Bahinting and co-pilot, Nepalese flight student Kshitiz Chand, were also confirmed dead. From August 21 until his interment, all government buildings and installations around the country lowered the national flag to half-staff in compliance with the President’s proclamation declaring the national days of mourning for Robredo.

Seventh on the list is the implementation of the controversial Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 even after its provisions were questioned before the Supreme Court last October. But the High Tribunal issued a temporary restraining order (TRO), which lasts for 120 days, thus oral arguments on the case will be held on Jan. 15.

On May 29, 2012, Corona was found guilty of Article II of the Articles of Impeachment filed against him pertaining to his failure to disclose to the public his statement of assets, liabilities and net worth.

Corona was appointed Chief Justice on May 12, 2010. He was the most senior Supreme Court justice among the four nominees from the Judicial and Bar Council.

Second to the last is the feeding of whale sharks in Oslob. The practice was questioned after Dr. Lemnuel Aragones, a marine mammal expert, said that feeding whale sharks is an “irresponsible use of natural resources, which could easily be mismanaged and abused.”

Oslob officials still continue to raise awareness and education about marine life among its locals.

Completing the list is the formation of Mega Cebu. Cebu’s private sector is determined to lead in pushing for the realization of the Mega Cebu project, a move to create a 30-year master plan that will put Cebu at par with key metropolitan destinations in the world.

The Metro Cebu Development Coordinating Board (MCDCB) is the proponent of the Mega Cebu master plan led by the Cebu Provincial Government, RAFI, and six large private sector groups like Cebu Business Club (CBC), Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) and Mandaue Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI), among others.

"Pagtuki” is aired over dyLA every Saturday at 10-11 a.m. The program, which is one of the Knowledge Sharing & Advocacy capabilities of RAFI, tackles timely and relevant issues affecting the Cebuano community.

For more information about RAFI’s radio program, please contact Fatrick Tabada at 418-7234 loc. 542, or visit www.rafi.org.ph or www.facebook.com/rafi.org.ph. (RAFI/PIA-Caraga)


Youth org, LGU facilitate gift-giving activity for IPs

BUTUAN CITY, Agusan del Norte, Jan 4 – The Propelling Our Inherited Nation Through our Youth Incorporated (Pointy Inc), a newly organized youth leader’s organization in Northern Mindanao, has partnered with the local government of Kitcharao, ADN and the 402nd Infantry Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, for its gift-giving activity at Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte dubbed as “Bagong Taon, Bagong Pag-Asa Para Sa Atong Mga Igsoong IP” held recently.

More than 500 Indigenous People (IP) from barangays Canaway, Hinimbangan, Bangayan, and Mahayahay, all of Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte and Brgy Ombong, Alegria, Surigao del Norte, benefited from the said gift-giving activity.

Last December 26, 2012, POINTY Inc also conducted a simultaneous gift-giving activity in Regions 10 and 13. The activity was covered by both local and national media outlets and was able to reach out to different organizations that later offered to give support for the advocacy. Upon receipt of these supports, POINTY Inc. in Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte scheduled the second round of the gift-giving activity for the IPs.

Hon Jenry Montante, Municipal Mayor of Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte extended his deepest gratitude to the people behind the successful gift-giving activity to the IPs in his municipality and even approved the budget for the expansion of the youth leaders organization within his municipality so that they will be able to carry on the peace advocacy that the government is promoting.

The Pointy Inc. is set to expand its organization this year and for the following years to come through series of municipal youth leadership seminars that will be conducted by the LGUs, LGAs, PNP, and the AFP in Northern Mindanao. (4CMOBn, 4ID, PA)


Assembly gathers businesswomen

CEBU CITY, Jan. 4 (PIA) - "Starting small is not a hindrance to improve the business if you are prepared to accept help from others."

This was the statement made by Virgilia A. Bonghanoy, Most Outstanding Client of the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. Micro-finance (RAFI Micro-finance) Client Awards 2012, said in her inspirational speech during the 9th General Assembly held recently at the Mandaue City Cultural and Sports Complex, this city.

Bonghanoy said that her family’s prayers is the most important thing that helped her through in growing her business. She thanked RAFI Micro-finance for the financial opportunities and support for her to expand her business. She received Php 25,000 and a plaque.

The event, with the theme “RAFI Micro-finance: Kaabag sa Responsableng Patigayon alang sa Kalamboan”, gathered more than 2,000 women micro-entrepreneurs from various RAFI Micro-finance branches of Cebu.

During the assembly, client nanays were recognized for the Most Outstanding Chairwoman, Most Outstanding Group Secretary, Best Group, and Best Center Meeting Place awards. The winners of the first two awards mentioned were Espelita Sordilla and Rosario Bacaling, respectively. Solid Rock won the last two awards.

There were also special awards given such as Most Conscientious Saver, Most Improved Client, Most Improved Chairwoman, Most Improved Center Meeting Place, and an award to the client who has been dedicating herself in preserving a tradition. The winners, respectively, were Emma Atis, Guillerma Geronimo, Ma. Theresa Egos, Solid Rock, and Josefina Magallones.

Donato Busa, general manager of Busa Printers; Melanie Ng, vice president of Ng Khai Development Corp.; and Glenn Anthony Soco, president of GA Satellite Ventures, imparted business experiences and insights to the participants.

“If you dream, dream big and work on it,” Soco urged.

 There was also a trade fair in front of the gymnasium, where various products―from local delicacies, seafood, to garments―from all over Cebu Province were displayed.

A medical mission, in collaboration with the Eduardo Aboitiz Cancer Center (EJACC), was held in the afternoon, benefitting around 600 people. Medical services included free adult consultations and cervical screening. Vitamins and sample medications were also given.

The Mantawi Integrated Dance Company and Cebu Gays Diva, performed dance numbers and comical skits.

Micro-finance is a program under the Micro-finance & Entrepreneurship focus area of RAFI, providing financial resources and know-how to women micro-entrepreneurs to nurture financial independence and entrepreneurship. Other focus areas of RAFI are Integrated Development, Culture & Heritage, Leadership & Citizenship, and Education.

For more information on RAFI Micro-finance, please contact 418-7234 loc. 707 and look for Val Gatchalian, or visit www.rafi.org.ph or www.facebook.com/rafi.org.ph. (RAFI/PIA-Caraga)


Feasibility Study on Solar Energy System for Butuan to be undertaken

By Junesther Jean S. Iway

BUTUAN CITY, Jan. 4 (PIA) – The Belgian firm Enfinity, a developer of renewable energy, through its local firm Enfinity Philippines Renewable Resources Inc. (EPRRI) will enter into a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the Butuan City Government for the creation of a feasibility study in putting up of a solar energy system project in this city.

The Sangguniang Panlungsod has seen the need to commit to such noteworthy project to bring about effective solutions to different issues of pollution particularly in Butuan City as well as ensure reliable supply of electricity at affordable rates basically to promote holistic development with the passage of a resolution of the said purpose.

As stated in the resolution, it is in pursuance of Republic Act 9513, a declared policy of the government to develop and utilize renewable energy sources and promote its efficient and cost-effective commercial applications by providing fiscal and non-fiscal incentives. This is where solar energy system comes.

Vice Mayor Law Fortun said the use of solar energy is timely as it is one of the best options available.

An energy coming from nature is one of the cleanest, harmless and cheapest ways to have a cleaner and safer environment. Knowing its financial benefits and constructive and helpful impact on every individual and on the environment as a whole, it is safe to say that having a solar energy system means having a more productive and stronger economy, Fortun said. (Vice Mayor’s Office/LGU-Butuan/PIA-Caraga)


Tagalog news: 7 bayan ng Agusan del Sur nagkaroon na ng maiinom na tubig

Ni David M. Suyao

AGUSAN DEL SUR, Enero 4 (PIA) -- Labing siyam na barangay mula sa pitong bayan ng Agusan del Sur ay nagkaroon na ng malinis na maiinom na tubig matapos ang simpleng seremonya ng pagsasalin ng mga pasilidad sa mga punong barangay noong Disyembre 14, 2012.

Ayon kay Kag. Allan Santiago, miyembro ng Sangguninag Panlalawigan at siya ring nanguna sa proyekto na kung tawagin ay “Tubig Imnonon Natong Agusanon” (TINA), ang naturang proyekto na isang bio-sand water filter facility, ay siyang pinakamagaling na paraan upang matugunan ang kawalan ng mapagkukunan ng malinis na maiinom na tubig ng mga residente sa malalayong lugar sa Agusan del Sur kaya't sa mga sapang marurumi at dumadaloy kung saan-saan na nagdudulot ng sakit sila kumukuha ng tubig.

Sinabi ni Engr. Pamela Yucosing, ang provincial engineer ng lalawigan, bago ipatupad ang naturang proyekto, ang kanilang tanggapan ay nagsagawa ng pagsasanay sa mga benepisyaryo ng kanikanilang responsibilidad upang mapanatiling malinis at nasa mabuting kalagayan ang proyekto.

“Bago maisakatuparan ang naturang proyekto, ang mga residente sa mga napiling lugar na ito ay kumukuha lamang ng tubig na kanilang iniinom at pangangailangan sa hindi ligtas na pinanggalingan tulad ng sapa at balon na kanilang hinukay malapit sa kanikanilang mga bahay, habang ang iba ay naglalakad ng kung ilang kilometro para makakuha ng ligtas na tubig na mainom,” Sabi ni Yucosing.

Bawat bio-sand water filter ay nagkahalaga ng P140,000. Sa taong 2012, ang pamahalaang panlalawigan ay naglaan ng P2.9 milyon para sa naturang proyekto.

Ang mga mapalad na barangay na nagkaroon ng patubig ay ang barangay Mapaga, Lan Caridad, Napo, New Maug at Purok 5 ng Patin-ay na sakop ng bayan ng Prosperidad para sa Distrito 1. Para naman sa Distrito 2, Barangay 1, Borbon, Rizal at Tagapua ng San Francisco; Tagbayagan, Maligaya, San Roque at Manat sa Trento; Mambalili at Poblacion sa Bunawan; Aurora at Tapas ng Sta. Josefa; Panagangan at Sagunto ng La Paz at Buena Gracia ng Talacogon.

Malaki ang pasasalamat ng mga residente na nabigyan ng patubig dahil ito ay sagot sa kanilang panalangin na magkaroon ng malinis na tubig na mainom. Bilang ganti, sila ay nangakong aalagaan mabuti ang naturang proyekto upang ito ay maging panghabang buhay.

Ayon kay Yucosing, ipinag-utos ni Gob. Adolph Edward Plaza na sa taong ito ng 2013, ang ilalaan na pondo ay aabot sa P3.5 milyones na kukunin sa 20 porsyentong Provincial Development Fund. (RER/DMS/PIA-Agusan del Sur)


Cebuano news: Palasyo mitimbaya sa “re-extension sa ceasefire sa mga kumunistang insurhente

Ni Nida Grace B. Tranquilan

MANILA, Enero 4 (PIA) -- Gitimbaya sa Malakanyang ang re-extension sa ceasefire sa kumunistang rebelde hangtod sa Enero 15 ning tuiga ginotahan nga kini makabenpisyo sa mga manggugubat sa kabukiran.

“Ang Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) ang mideklarar sa re-extension sa ceasefire ngadto sa Enero 15, 2013. Ang gobyerno mitimbaya sa maong kabag-ohan nga kinasingkasing gikan sa bag-ohay pang posisyon niini. Kini makahatag sa among mga kasundalohan ug mga membro sa mga CPP-NPA-NDF nga dugang oras kaubann ang ilahang mga minahal sa kinabuhi, nga mamahimong makuli atol sa oras nga dunay kasamok,” (“The Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) has declared a re-extension of the ceasefire to January 15, 2013. The government welcomes this change of heart from their earlier position. This gives our soldiers and members of the CPP-NPA-NDF more time with their loved ones, which becomes difficult in times of conflict,”) si Presidential Edwin Lacierda miingon atol sa iyahang pamahayag sa adlaw’ng Huwebes.

“Bisan pa sa unilateral nga pamahayag ngadto sa suhi, ang gobyerno hingpit nga misaad sa pagtahod sa maong ceasefire – tataw nga indikasyon sa amoang sensiro ug determinasyon nga mapadayon ang pagpalig-on sa kalinaw.”

Ang mga representante sa gobyernno ug sa CPP-NPA-NDF nagtagbo didto sa Hague, Netherlands sa miageng bulan ug miuyon sa “holiday ceasefire” nga ipatuman gikan Disyembre 20,2012 hangtod sa Enero 15, 2013.

Si Lacierdda usab miingon, nga ang administrasyon sa Aquino milantaw padulong ngadto sa mabungahon nga dayalogo uban ang CPP-NPA-NDF, uban ang panlantaw sa pag amuma sa tinood ug malahutayong kalinaw sa nasud.

Ang rebeldeng grupo gipamub-an ang deklaradong ceasefire diha sa gobyerno karon nga semana. Imbes Enero 15, ang maong ceasefire gipatuman nga natapos sa adlaw’ng Miyerkules.

Ang CPP-NPA-NDF miingon nga gipamub-an ang durasyon sa ceasefire tungod kay si President Benigno Aquino napakyas sa pag- isyu ug matugbanong deklarasyon paila sa nahisgutang ceasefire nga motapos sa Enero 15. (EOT/NGBT/PIA-Surigao del Sur)


Cebuano News: Siyudad sa Surigao gibuksan ang One-Stop Shop sa pagpang-isyu og permits

Ni Fryan E. Abkilan

SURIGAO CITY, Jan 4 (PIA) -- Gibuksan na gyud niadtong miaging adlaw ang One-Stop Shop sa pagpang-isyu sa mga business permits ug lisensya nga gipasiugdahan sa dakbayan sa Surigao didto sa City Gym, ning syudad.

Si City Mayor Ernesto Matugas kauban ang ubang opisyales sa syudad ug mga myembro sa Surigao Chamber of Commerce and Industry kun SSCI maoy nangulo sa pagbukas sa maong programa.

Sumala pa sa nangulo sa SCCI nga si Willy Gan nga ang one-stop shop abri sa Lunes hangtud sa Sabado sa alas-8 sa buntag hangtud sa alas-10 sa gabie. Kini nga aktibidad mulungtad hangtud sa Enero 20, ning tuiga.

Siya midugang nga ang ilang organisasyon muhatag ug pipila ka mga houseware items sa kung kinsa kadtong unang-napulo nga mga aplikante mi-apply atol sa pagahimuong raffle draw karong adlawa, Enero 4.

Samtang, ang buhatan sa Business Permits and Licensing Office miahwag sa mga negosyante sa pagparenew na gyud dayon aron dili na sila malangan pa.

Ang pagbaton ug usa ka one-stop shop usa kini ka padayong suporta sa dakbayan sa Surigao sa paghatag ug paspas ug episyente nga serbisyo sa mga negosyante sa ilang pag-apply ug pagrenew sa ilang business permits sa usa lamang ka lugar. (FEA/SDR/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

PIA News Service - Thursday, January 3, 2013


Surigao City opens One-Stop Shop processing of permits

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Jan. 3 (PIA) -- The Surigao City government's One-Stop Shop issuance of business permits and licenses officially opened yesterday, January 2 at the City Gymnasium, this city.

The formal opening was led by City Mayor Ernesto Matugas along with other local officials and members of the Surigao Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI).

SCCI president Willy Gan said the one-stop shop will open from Monday to Saturday, 8 am to 10 pm and will run until midnight of January 20, 2013.

He further said that SCCI will be giving away housewares items for the first 10 applicants during the raffle draw on Friday, January 4, 2013.

Meanwhile, the Surigao City Business Permits and Licensing Office encouraged business owners to come and apply or renew their licenses now to avoid inconvenience and prevent them from paying the penalty.

The setting up of a one-stop shop is a continuing commitment of the city government to provide convenience to business owners for application and renewal of their business permits wherein national agencies like Department of Trade and Industry, Social Security System, Bureau of Internal Revenue, Department of Labor and Employment, Home Mutual Development Fund and Philhealth gathered in one place for an efficient and effective processing of business permits and licenses.

The requirements for the renewal of business permits are the following: previous year business permit with O.R. Barangay Clearance (2 copies), CEDULA, SSS Clearance (2 copies), Fire Safety Seminar Certificate of Attendance (Photocopy), TIN, SEC Registration for Corporation, Business Name Registration with DTI, Contractor’s License issued by the Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board (PCAB) in case of General Specialty & Engineering Contractor, Cooperative Development Authority Registration for Cooperative and 2 pieces 2x2 ID picture. (FEA/SDR/PIA-Surigao del Norte)


DOH-Caraga reports 25 firecracker-related cases in New Year revelry

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, Jan. 3 (PIA) – The Department of Health (DOH)-Center for Health Development (CHD)-Caraga today reported 25 firecracker-related cases in the region during New Year's eve celebrations.

The health department in the region said these cases were reported by the different sentinel hospitals in Caraga.
Of these cases, 14 are active which means that the victims are the ones who lighted the firecrackers.

Also, the region’s health department has recorded (nine) passive cases (either onlookers or bystanders) and two victims of stray bullets.

The DOH said majority of the injuries are burn/blasting and lacerations. However, there is one eye injury case needing further referral, and one victim of stray bullet referred to higher facility. Most of the cases or 21 out of 25 were treated at the ER/OPD in hospitals and Rural Health Units.

The ages of victims ranged from two to 63. Majority, 23 out of 25, of the cases were males. The types of firecrackers used were Piccolo (20), bawang (one), flying tiger dragon (one), stray bullet (two) and unidentified (one), the DOH said.

Agusan del Sur was recorded to have the highest number of cases with nine, followed by Surigao City (eight), Surigao del Norte (four), Butuan City (two), Surigao del Sur and Tandag City with one each.

According to DOH-CHD Caraga Regional Information Officer Sunshine Alipayo, the number of firecracker-related cases increased this year as compared to 23 cases last year, or an increase of eight percent.

Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police (PNP) here reported that the New Year was celebrated peacefully in all provinces in the region. (RER/PIA-Caraga)


Operasyon Ayos Atip successful in Lingig town

By Nida Grace B. Tranquilan

SURIGAO DEL SUR, Jan. 3 (PIA) -- Following the typhoon Pablo which devastated Lingig town of this province earlier last month, A number of families in Sitio Hanipaan, Poblacion and Sitio Sayon, Brgy Mahayahay, victims of typhoon Pablo, benefited from “Operasyon Ayos Atip," a collaborative effort of the Philippine Army under Col Romeo Gan of the 401st Brigade with the 75IB, 29IB & 36IB; Tesda; and the provincial government office led by Governor Johnny Pimentel.

The activity, conducted on December 27-30, has reportedly repaired at least 22 houses, 75IB CMO Officer Jolito Borces said.

Tesda Director Rey Cueva said that some of the victims had requested “nipa (palm)” roofs as replacement, after their roof was destroyed by the typhoon.

Meanwhile, Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Officer Mayosito Dano said, out of 124 households living in Sitio Hanipaan, part of Barangay Poblacion, 29 houses were reported to have been totally damaged and the rest were partially damaged. 

In a related development, services of Smart Communications was just restored on January 1 in Lingig town while Globe was reportedly restored earlier while power lines was not restored yet in most southern part barangays except Poblacion and some nearby barangays, Dano added. (NGBT/PIA-Surigao del Sur)


Contact Center ng Bayan just a text away

BUTUAN CITY, Jan. 3 (PIA) -- With its continuing effort to improve public service delivery, citizens may now access the CCB via SMS by sending a text message to 090-888-16565.

The government's central helpline, which is dubbed as Contact Center ng Bayan (CCB) is accessible nationwide by dialing 1-6565 using PLDT, Smart, and Digital landlines, Mondays to Fridays, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Each call to 1-6565 is charged P5 plus VAT.

Civil Service Commission (CSC) Chairman Francisco T. Duque III said that in opening this additional channel or means for reaching CCB, it will make it easier and more convenient for the public to complain about inefficiency, discourtesy, and fixing in government services. Accessibility of CCB via SMS started last December 3, 2012.

For CCB's initial implementation, six agencies - CSC, National Computer Center, Bureau of Internal Revenue, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, Department of Health, and Department of Trade and Industry - have electronically interconnected their call centers to the CCB.

Citizens may call the CCB for instances of red tape and poor quality service in government agencies, such as fixing or collusion with fixers, disruption of service during lunch break, no Citizen's Charter posted within the agency premises, and imposition of additional fees or requirements not stated in the Citizen's Charter.

The CCB is anchored on the Anti-Red Tape Act (ARTA) of 2007, a law which aims to improve public service delivery. (RER/CSC-13/PIA-Caraga)


Tagalog news: Pandaigdigang organisasyon tutulong sa mga biktima ng bagyong Pablo sa Agusan del Sur

Ni David M. Suyao

AGUSAN DEL SUR, Enero 2 (PIA) -- Isang pandaigdigang pribadong organisasyon o NGO ang nangakong magbibigay ng tulong sa dalawang bayan na sobrang nasalanta ng bagyong Pablo sa lalawigan ng Agusan del Sur.

Ayon sa tanggapan ng Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC), ang Save the Children Foundation ay magbibigay ng malinis na patubig sa mga barangay ng Awao, Sayon at Angas sa bayan ng Sta. Josefa at sa barangay Sinobong, Candiis at Del Monte sa bayan ng Veruela bilang tugon sa pangangailangan ng malinis ng tubig ng mga residente roon.

Sa kasalukuyan, ang pamahalaang panlalawigan, sa pamamagitan ng mga bumbero ng Bureau of Fire Protection ang siyang naghahatid ng malinis na tubig para mainom ng mga residente sa naturang mga barangay.

Ang dalawang bayan na ito, kasama na ang mga bayan ng Trento at Bunawan ay ang mga bayan na sobrang nasalanta ng bagyong Pablo na nag-iwan ng labis-labis na pagkasira ng mga ari-arian, agrikultura at imprastraktura kaya't labis na naapektuhan ang mga residente.

Bilang tugon sa kabutihan ng nasabing NGO, pinag utos ni Bog. Adolph Edward Plaza ang pagbuo ng isang technical working group na binubuo ng mga tauhan galling sa Provincial Engineering Office, Provincial Health Office, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office, Agusan del Sur Enonomic Research and Business Assistance Center at ng Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office na siyang magbibigay ng tulong na kailangan ng nasabing NGO sa panahon ng paggawa ng patubig.

Ayon sa pinakahuling pagsisiyasat ng PDRRMC, may humigit kumulang sa 13,000 katao mula sa Sta. Josefa at mahigit 16,000 din katao mula sa Veruela ang hanggang ngayon ay nakatira pa rin sa mga pansamantalang tirahan na mga tents matapos na lubusang sirain ng bagyo ang kanilang mga bahay.

Sa kasalukuyan, abala pa rin ang mga boluntaryo na nasa Oplan Pablo Operation Center sa pag impake ng mga pagkain at iba pang mga pangangailangan ng mga biktima ng bagyo sa mga apektadong lugar. (RER/DMS/PIA-Caraga)


Cebuano news: Gobyernong Aquino pabilin nga maningkamot aron marekober ang ill-gotten wealth sa mga marcoses ug mga cronies

Ni Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Enero 3 (PIA) -- Ang administrasyong Aquino magpabilin nga maningkamot aron marekober ang mga kinawat nga mga bahandi sa pamilya ug mga cronies ni kanhi Pangulong Ferdinand Marcos ug ipadayon ang mga kasong pagpangawkaw ug korupsyon kon ugaling ang Kongreso modesider nga wagtangon na ang Presidential Commission on Good Government (PCGG) matud ni Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda kagahapon.

Matud pa ni Lacierda nga itunol sa PCG ang pending nga mga kaso ngadto sa Department of Justice (DOJ) kon ugaling wagtangon ang maong commission ug kini wala magpasabot nga ang mga kasong pagpangawkaw ug korupsyon batok kanila mahanaw na.

Gibutyag usab ni Lacierda nga niadtong ulahing bahin sa bulan sa Disyembre tuig 2010 gisugyot ni PCGG Chair Andres Bautista ngadto sa Malacañang nga wagtangon na ang PCGG ug himoon na lamang kining usa ka Institusyon alang sa Good Governance apan kini wala pay diskusyon ug wala pay pinal nga desisyon ang Pangulo mahitungod niini.

Kung mahinundoman ang PCGG gimugna ni Pangulong Corazon C. Aquino niadtong 1986 aron marekober ang mga kinawat nga bahandi atol sa rehimeng Marcos. (RER/SDR/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

PIA News Service - Wednesday, January 2, 2013


PAEF now accepting applications for 2014-2015 Fulbright scholarship grants

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, Jan. 2 (PIA) – The Philippine-American Educational Foundation (PAEF) is now accepting applications for Fulbright scholarship grants for school year 2014-2015.

This was learned from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED)-Caraga Regional Office through its website at www.chedcaraga.com.

In a letter addressed to CHED-Caraga Regional Director Dr. Isabela Mahler, PAEF Executive Director Esmeralda Cunanan said the granting of scholarship will be conducted through competition where applicants are evaluated or assessed according to their undergraduate records, professional work experiences and other qualifications.

The scholarship is for graduate degree and non-degree study grants in the United States such as master’s, Ph.D., and doctoral dissertation. Application for these grants will be received by PAEF until March 25, 2013.

Applications are accepted from faculty and staff of Philippine universities and professionals from the private and government sectors.

Cunanan said the Fulbright scholarship grants have been awarded to around 2,000 Filipinos since 1948. It enables deserving Filipinos to pursue their fields of study in the United States and develop leaders who will contribute to the promotion of international peace and understanding. “Today, Fulbright scholars occupy prominent positions in the government and the private sector,” Cunanan added.

Grants under the Philippine Student Program are for a maximum of one academic year for non-degree, one to two years for master’s, and two years for doctoral degree studies. The grant provides for round-trip international travel, monthly maintenance allowance, tuition and fees, book/supply allowance, as well as health and accident insurance.

Qualified applicants must be of Filipino citizenship and proficient in English. Must be a college degree holder with major in field of specialization and has excellent undergraduate record.

While no medical certification is required at application time, applicants must be in good health to pursue graduate work in the United States. However, finalists will be required to pass a medical examination.

Also, applicants must have at least two years of professional work experience (after college) in their field of specialization. For degree programs, applicants must not be older than 40 years of age at the time of application. This age requirement is waived for non-degree study.

Cunanan said that upon completion of the study, applicants must immediately return to the Philippines.

In addition to the eligibility requirements cited, applicants for doctoral enrichment must be enrolled in a relevant doctoral study program in a Philippine university and must have completed at least two-thirds of the academic course requirements of the Ph.D. program.

For the applicants in the doctoral dissertation research, he/she must be enrolled in a doctoral program and must have a dissertation topic approved at least by his/her adviser, and must show proof that materials required to pursue research are not available in the Philippines but are available in the United States.

To qualify, applicants must also submit the required documents such as: 1) Official or certified true copy of Transcript of Records from all colleges/universities attended, 2) Certified true copy of diploma, 3) Four letters of reference, 4) Completed seven-page application form, and 5) NBI clearance acquired for the last six months.

Standardized test scores (TOEFL, GRE) are not required at the time of application, and documents submitted will not be returned to the applicants.

Moreover, Cunanan said additional competition materials may be obtained directly from the PAEF office and can be downloaded from its website at www.fulbright.org.ph. (RER/PIA-Caraga)


Application for CSC Career Service examinations is now open

BUTUAN CITY, Jan. 2 (PIA) -- The filing of applications for the April 14 CSC Career Service Professional and Sub-Professional written examinations is now open.

Applications are now accepted nationwide in all Civil Service Commission (CSC) regional and field offices until February 28 with examination fee of P500 for both levels of written exam. However, the CSC reminds all concerned that the application period may be closed any time before said date once these offices have reached its quota.The CSC also said that applicants should come in proper attire when filing their application and, thus, should avoid wearing sleeveless shirt/blouse, short pants, and/or slippers.

The CSC said the Civil Service Examinations (CSE) are generally ability tests designed to measure verbal, analytical, numerical, and clerical skills, that passing the CSE entitles one to either a Professional or Sub-Professional eligibility which, along with education, experience and training requirements, is needed for permanent appointment to corresponding positions in the government career service.

The CSE is open to Filipino citizens, regardless of educational attainment, who are at least 18-years-old at the time of filing the application, and who have not taken the same level of examination in less than three months.

Application requirements are: 1. Properly accomplished Form (CS Form No. 100, Revised 2012) which is available at any CSC Regional/Field Office, or may be downloaded from CSC website www.csc.gov.ph; 2. Four pieces of recently taken ID pictures (not more than three months ago) with the following specifications: Passport-sized (4.5 cm x 3.5cm); colored with white background in standard close-up shot (from shoulder level up and with head and face occupying at least 80 percent of the picture and with name tag positioned approximately 1 inch or 2.54 cm below the chin); in bare face (without eye glasses, or any accessory that may cover facial features); showing left and right ears; in full-face view directly facing the camera with neural facial expression and both eyes open; and with handwritten (not computer-generated) name tag showing the applicant's signature over printed full name (first name, middle initial, last name, and extension name, if any); 3. Original and photocopy of any the following valid ID cards containing the applicant's name, clear picture, date of birth and signature, and the issuing agency authorized officer's name and signature: Driver's License, SSS ID, GSIS ID, PhilHeath ID, current company/office ID, current School ID, Postal ID, BIR ID, Barangay ID, Voter's ID, valid passport, or Police Clearance; 4. Original and photocopy of NSO-issued Birth Certificate, or Birth Certificate authenticated/issued by the Local Civil Registrar for applicants without data on their date of birth i their valid ID.

The CSC emphasized further that it neither holds any review class nor publishes and distributes any review material or the CSE. It does not accredit and has never accredited any review center offering and holding review classes to prospective Career Service examinees.

For more information, verification and updates, applicants may follow our CSC website at www.csc.gov.ph or they may call on CSC Para sa Taumbayan hotline at (02) 951-2575, (02) 951-2576 and (02) 932-0111. (RER/CSC-13/PIA-Caraga)


Cebuano news: Malacañang nasubo sa pagpanaw ni Fr. James B. Reuter, S.J.

Ni Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Enero 2 (PIA) -- Ang Malacañang miduyog sa kasub-anan sa pagpanaw ni Fr. James B. Reuter, S.J., human nag-antus sa balatian niadtong Lunes, Disyembre 31, 2012 sa edad nga 96.

Sa pamahayag ni Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda iyang gitumbok ang unang pag-abot ni Fr. Reuter dinhi sa Pilipinas isip usa ka batan-on nga pareng Jesuit human sa World War II ug sa tibook niyang bokasyon isip pare dinhi sa nasod nahimong higala, tagamatuto, tagakompisal, tigtambag sa henerasyong Filipino.

Dugang pa ni Lacierda nga legasiya usab ni Fr. Reuter sa mga Filipino ang nabatog nga Family Rosary Crusade o ang pormasyon sa JESCOM dinhi sa Pilipinas.

Sumala ni kanhi Ateneo de Manila president Fr. Bienvenido Nebres, S.J., ang haya sa patayng lawas ni Fr. Reuter kasamtangang anaa karon sa Simbahan sa Gesu sa Ateneo de Manila University campus sa Quezon City. Ang plano sa lubong pagahimoon human sa bakasyon. (PIA-Surigao del Norte)