(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.


Wednesday, August 6, 2014

Skills dev’t program launched in Surigao del Sur

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 6 (PIA) - A skills development program was recently launched in the province of Surigao del Sur through the Reaching Communities for Skills Development and Productivity Program (RCP).

This development came after the local officials headed by Mayor Roxanne C. Pimentel of Tandag City has observed that high poverty incidence, unemployment rate, large number of school dropouts, pace and order and others are considered among the problems that pervade socio-economic growth of the city.

The political leaders in the province are convinced that in order to combat or fight these problems, there is a need to provide the Surigaonons with livelihood and employment opportunities.

During the launching of the program, Mayor Pimentel said the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) has been a regular partner with the city government of Tandag in the development of the area.

“Basta yaon permi gapaluyo sa ato si TESDA regional director Jun Sunico ug provincial director Rey Cueva, molambo gayud kita (As long as regional director Jun Sunico and provincial director Rey Cueva is always here to support us, we will have progress)," Mayor Pimentel said.

Pimentel added with unemployment remains to be one of the problems that the city is facing, there is a need for the local officials to find ways so that by giving them the opportunity to be employed, they will also be given dignity… As the saying goes, “To give dignity to our fellowmen, give them jobs,” Pimentel said.

The chief executive of the city likewise stressed that the skills development program is one of the priority programs of her administration as she believes that through this, the community to be empowered and likewise find stable and better job opportunities.

Pimentel further said during the previous year of her administration, she has continuously supported trainings in Computer Hardware Servicing, Electrical Installation and Maintenance, and Consumer Electronic Servicing.

“Aside from these, we have provided community-based trainings like massage therapy, food and beverage services, table skirting, facial and foot care and housekeeping,” Pimentel said.

Mayor Pimentel is likewise hoping that through the RCP program, they would be able to chart the destiny of the youth especially those who cannot afford to continue college education because human capital development has always been viewed as the most important component in any nation striving for economic growth.

The official likewise pointed out that these efforts would not be made possible without the support of TESDA. “That is why we continued to include P1 million support to TESDA-LGU projects especially now that the RCP program has been established,” Pimentel said.

The RCP is designed to address the technical vocational education and training needs of the various sectors of the city in partnership with the national government agencies, barangays, people’s organizations, provincial government and industry.

At the end of every training period, the target beneficiaries would have been trained and certified that would prepare them for gainful employment and nhance their productivity.

Specifically, the program is aimed at conducting city-wide skills training, livelihood and capability building programs across a wider sector of beneficiaries. Likewise, it aimed to initiate the possible organization of a group of beneficiaries and establish a viable livelihood projects through the provision of starter kits and micro credit assistance.

The project involves three components: skills training, livelihood training program, and programs of other agencies/offices.

Skills training component covers the conduct of various skills training program in the barangays, including the provision of Assessment and Certification Services and Jobs Facilitation Assistance.

The livelihood training program includes short term training programs designed to encourage self-employment. Part of this component is the provision of starter kits to the graduates. (TESDA-13/PIA-Caraga)


PRO 13 hires 325 additional non-uniformed personnel anew

By Greg Tataro, Jr.

TANDAG CITY Aug. 6 (PIA) – Police Regional Office 13 (PRO 13) in Caraga headed by regional director P/Chief Supt. Dominador Eslava Aquino, Jr. is hiring anew additional non-uniformed personnel (NUP) intended to be utilized as crime registrar in police stations.

According to SPO1 Ranilo Malong, Public Information Officer (PIO) of Surigao del Sur Police Provincial Office (SDSPPO) under officer-in-charge (OIC) provincial director P/SSupt. Narciso Verdadero, 325 slots of the 7,439 vacant positions nationwide are up for grabs in Caraga.

He said that the PRO 13 has already started accepting applicants, adding that the deadline for the submission of application is set Wednesday, August 6.

Malong stressed that interested applicants are required to submit the following requirements: Letter of Application; Duly Accomplished Personal Data Sheet (CSC Form 212-Revissed 2005); Transcript of Records and Diploma; Certificate of Eligibility; Certificate of Training; Certificate of Employment, if any; an original together with an authenticated copy each of NBI Clearance; NSO Birth Certificate; and, NSO Marriage Certificate, if applicable, respectively.

“Interested applicants may call at 815-3325 and 815-1668/342-4570 or visit PIO PRO 13 and look for Mr. Gil Licayan (09217452960-Smart/09155250447-Globe) of the Regional Personnel and Human Resource Development Division (R1) for more details,” he added. (NGBT/Radyo ng Bayan/PIA-Surigao del Sur)


Surigao del Norte mining companies support establishment of prov’l training center

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 6 (PIA) - Following the recent inauguration of the provincial community training center in Bad-as, Placer, Surigao del Norte, Gov. Sol F. Matugas said the establishment of the training center was made possible through the public-private partnership program of the provincial government.

The official said mining companies operating in the province have initially contributed some P15,4000,000 for the establishment of the building structures, as well as the facilities that are now placed in the training center.

The training center was established by virtue of Executive Order No. 1, proposing the operation on a co-management scheme between the provincial government of Surigao del Norte and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)-Surigao City through forging a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA).

The Chamber of Mines of Caraga in cooperation with the Philippine Society of Mining Engineers (PSEM) – Surigao Chapter will rehabilitate the existing buildings in the area as a Practical/Workshop Area and likewise, construct new building for the Basic and Common Competencies including the first year operation.

The Provincial Government Office of Surigao del Norte initially transfers some qualification-offerings of the Provincial Manpower Training Center-Surigao del Norte including the trainers and likewise, allocate funds for the payment of the light and water bills, maintenance of the building and medical-dental services of the trainees until the PCTC can establish a self-sustaining scheme, with the assistance of TESDA.

The training center shall initially run by the Provincial Governor’s Office of Surigao del Norte through its Provincial Employment and Manpower Office (PEMO) and TESDA-Surigao del Norte through its Provincial Manpower Training Center in a complementation system until the PCTC can establish its own Governing Board and personnel complement.

The PCTC is generally aimed at serving the youths, unemployed and underemployed of the province and nearby provinces. It offers skills trainings on Shielded Metal Arc Welding NC II on as the Distinctive Area of Competence (DAC) and its support qualifications namely: Automotive Servicing NC II, Electrical Installation and Maintenance NC II, Consumer Electronics Servicing NC II, Driving, Garments NC II, and other mining-related qualifications.

The training center is proposed to be accredited as an Assessment Center in the aforementioned qualifications. The PCTC plays a major role in improving the way of life of the Surigaonons. It will pave the way for progress and development of the entire province of Surigao del Norte.

Meanwhile, Gov. Matugas added, the contributions of Silangan Mindanao Mining Corporation, Taganito Mining Corporation, Hinatuan Mining Corporation, and Platinum Gold Metals Corporation have paved the way for the Surigaonons especially the youths to fulfill their dreams and aspirations in lives.

The official therefore, is thankful that indeed, the public-private partnership that is initiated by the provincial government has gained an important milestone into the lives of the Surigaonon populace. (TESDA-13/PIA-Caraga)


1st Lawig Men’s Open Volley tourney underway

BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 6 (PIA) - The first ever Lawig Men’s Open Volleyball tournament went underway last August 2, 2014 at Brgy. Baan Riverside basketball court and participated by teams coming from this city and neighboring municipalities in Agusan del Norte.

The annual tournament, which is supported by Agusan del Norte first district representative Lawrence “Law” Fortun, is planned to be held in other different venues with the aim of discovering new talents in the sport and promote competitiveness among the youth participants.

For this year’s initial staging, teams from Butuan City, Cabadbaran City and the municipalities of Tubay and Nasipit registered for the tournament. Teams such as the Placeros Team, composed of players from Barangays Obrero and Bading; Sta. Ana – Tubay and De Amigos make up the power house teams in this tournament which is also supported by the Philippine Volleyball Federation.

According to Fortun, supporting this kind of event for the youth is aligned with his campaign platform of youth empowerment through sports development. “It has always been my advocacy to empower the youth through sports development and this is one of them,” Fortun said.

“Through this kind of activity we will be able to hone the skills of our local volleyball players and help them be involved in sports activities and develop their whole being while veering them away from vices,” Fortun added. (LAWig/PIA-Agusan del Norte)


Tagalog News: Palasyo pinagtanggol ang programang Conditional Cash Transfer (4Ps)

Ni David M. Suyao

AGUSAN DEL SUR, Agosto 6 (PIA) - Marami ang nakinabang mula sa programang Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) nang ito ay pinalawak para masaklaw ang higit 4.1 milyong pamilya sa taong ito mula sa 1 milyon noong 2010, sabi ng isang opisyal ng Palasyo.

“Sa sunud-sunod na pag-aaral ng World Bank, AusAID at iba pang internasyonal na ahensya, napatunayan din na napabuti ang kalidad ng pamumuhay ng mga kabahayan o mga pamilyang benepisyaryo ng Conditional Cash Transfer program,” sabi ni Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. sa mga mamamahayag sa isang panayam sa Malakanyang noong Martes.

Nagkokomentaryo si Secretary Coloma sa mga tawag na itigil na ang programang CCT na ginawa noong Kontra-SONA na binigkas ni minority leader Cong. Ronaldo Zamora.

Idiniin ni Zamora na ang programa ay nabigong iangat ang mga benepisaryo mula sa kahirapan.

“Mula noon hanggang 2012, naibaba lamang mula 32 percent hanggang 27.9 percent. Ibig sabihin, sa loob ng 21 taon, ang ibinaba ng kahirapan ay 5 percent. Pero doon sa isang taon, mula 2012 hanggang 2013, ang naitalang pagbaba ay 3 porsyento na kaagad. Kayo na ang magpasya kung aling programa ang naging mas epektibo,” sabi niya.

Natandaan niya na ang puntirya ng gobyerno ay ibaba sa 32 porsyento ang kahirapan noong 1991 hanggang 16.1 porsyento sa taong 2015.

“May 19 na taon na ang layunin na ‘yon mula 1991. At ipinunto ko nga, 5 porsyento lang ang ibinaba niyan sa loob ng 21 taon. Pero doon sa ating nabanggit, naibaba ‘yan ng 3 porsyento sa loob ng isang taon,” paliwanang ni  Coloma.

“Kinikilala naman natin na malaki-laki na rin ‘yung nabawas kung tutuusin sa maikling panahon ng aming panunungkulan,” dagdag niya.

Inulit ni Secretary Coloma na minomonitor ng Department of Social Welfare and Development ang mga benepisaryo ng CCT.

Kaya nga ito tinawag na conditional cash transfer. Ibinibigay lang ‘yung benepisyo kung tiyak na ginagampanan nila ang kanilang responsibilidad bilang benepisyaryo,” sabi niya.

Sabi niya na balak ng pamahalaan na palawaking pa ang programa para umabot sa 5 milyon ang tatanggap sa taong 2015.

“Nananalig kami na sa pagtutuos ng mga datos at aktuwal na naging resulta ng conditional cash transfer ay patuloy na bibigyan ito ng suporta ng ating Kongreso sa pagpasa ng pambansang budget para sa taong ito,” sabi ni Coloma. (DMS/PIA-Agusan del Sur)


Tagalog News: Gobyerno gumagawa ng hakbang para mapabuti ang sektor ng agrikultura

Ni David M. Suyao

AGUSAN DEL SUR, Agosto 6 (PIA) - Gumagawa na ng hakbang ang gobyerno sa pagsisikap na mapabuti ang katayuan ng mga mamamayan sa sektor ng agrikultura, sabi ni Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. ng magkaroon ng panayam sa media noong Martes sa Palasyo.

"Ang isinasagawang istratehiya ng pamahalaan ay mayroong spatial or area focus. Tinutukoy kung nasaan ang pinakamaraming mga mahihirap," sabi ni Secretary Coloma.

"At batid naman natin na ang mga magsasaka ay kabilang doon sa hanay ng mahihirap, kung saang mga probinsya sila naroroon."


Sabi niya na inases na ng gobyerno ang 44 na mga lalawigan base sa mataas na lawak na karukhaan, bilang ng mga mahihirap at ang kanilang pagkakataong malapit sa natural na sakuna  na naging ambag sa kanilang karukhaan.

Ito ay magiging tulong din sa mga magsasaka na tumaas ang kanilang ani at mabigyan sila ng pagkakataong magtanim ng mga pananim na may mataas na ani para tumaas din ang kanilang kita, sabi niya.

"Kaya ito ay bahagi ng istratehiya para sa agricultural sector, na hindi ganoon kataas ang naging paglago noong mga nakaraang taon," dagdag pa niya.

Komento niya sa mga batikos na ang sektor ng agrikultura ay dati ng kulang ang suporta mula sa pamahalaan sa matagal ng panahon. Sinabi ni Coloma na ang datos mula sa National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) ay maaring mag-analisa kung ang kita ng mga magsasaka ay tumaas. (DMS/PIA-Agusan del Sur)


Cebuano News: Buhatan sa mayor mipagawas og Memorandum kalabot na sa R.A 9485 o Anti Red-Tape Act of 2007

SURIGAO CITY, Agosto 6 (PIA) – Ang buhatan sa mayor ning syudad bag-ohay pa lamang mipagawas og memorandum ngadto sa tanang empleyado sa gobyerno kalabot na sa R.A. No. 9485 o Anti Red-Tape Act of 2007.

Ang  maong memorandum nga gipagawas pinaagi kang Mayor Ernesto Matugas ngadto sa tanang empleyado sa gobyerno ning syudad kalabot na sa hugtanong pag- implementar sa R.A. No. 9485 kun Anti Red-Tape Act of 2007 partikular na sa section 11, sub. sec. (b) Grave Offense (Fixing or collusion with Fixers.

Subay sa maong memorandum nga ang makalapas sa maong balaodnon pwede matangtang ug ma-diskwalipikar sa trabaho.

Samtang  ubos usab section 12 of sa maong balaodnon adunay dugang nga penalty o silot nga pagkapreso  sa dili mulapas sa 6 ka tuig o multa na dili muobos sa P20,000 mil ka pesos ug dili mulapas sa P200,00 mil ka pesos.

Ang maong balaod nagpahinumdum usab sa tanan nga ubos sa Rule V, Section 1 of the Implementing Rules and Regulations of R.A. 9485 nga ang nangulo sa matag buhatan o ahensya sa gobyerno maoy responsable sa maong implementasyon ug ang tanang transaksyon ug proseso gikonsiderar nga adunay permiso gikan sa hepe sa maong buhatan o ahensya sa gobyerno.


Ang makalapas nga bisan kinsa nga empleyado sa usa ka buhatan, ang mapahamtangan sa maong silot basi sa nasampit nga balaod. (SDR/MICO-Surigao City/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Tuesday, August 5, 2014

LGU reps ink manifesto for climate change adaptation mechanisms, access to PSF

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 5 (PIA) – The representatives from the nine local government units (LGUs) in Caraga region have recently signed a manifesto that would put forward their ongoing initiatives to establish appropriate mechanisms to adapt to the looming impacts of climate change.

These LGUs are Hinatuan, Lanuza and Marihatag, all in Surigao del Sur; Jabonga, Kitcharao, and Las Nieves, all in Agusan del Norte; Prosperidad and Bayugan City in Agusan del Sur and Del Carmen, Surigao del Norte.

As contained in the manifesto, the parties will take pride and actions in pursuing comprehensive climate and multi-hzard assessments significantly involving vulnerable communities under the project, “Building Resilient and Adaptive Communities and Institutions,” an Australian Aid support of the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade implemented by Oxfam and partner non-government organizations.

“The project has helped them develop a comprehensive concept on adaptation wherein priority adaptation and risk reduction actions are integrated and funded under their local disaster risk reduction management plans despite limited resources,” said Dante Dalabajan, Mindanao Coordinator of Oxfam Philippines.

The partakers, however, have recognized that their existing initiatives are not sufficient to attend the wide range of adaptation projects that would benefit more vulnerable communities. But they identified that these communities have the capacity to adapt and would be able to experience economic growth amidst limited resources to fund such adaptation projects.

They were putting high hopes on the Peoples Survival Fund (PSF) as a finance mechanism that would help LGUs address the challenges of increasing capacities of vulnerable communities.

Thus, the signifying parties expressed their interest and readiness to submit proposals to access the PSF as it should be made available and accessible while mechanisms should also be in place by now to ensure that the funds go directly and transparently to adaptation and risk reduction projects based on the comprehensive assessment of climate change and disaster risks in highly vulnerable communities.

“As cited in the manifesto, it also calls on international donor agencies to integrate climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction in their development investments,” added Dalabajan. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)


DA-MRDP turns over P6M worth of livelihood subprojects to Las Nieves

By MJ Gumapac

BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 5 (PIA) - The Department of Agriculture - Mindanao Rural Development Program – Adaptable Program Loan Phase 2 (DA MRDP-APL2) recently turned over seven sub-projects under the Community Fund for Agricultural Development (CFAD) to the seven People’s Organization (PO) in Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte with a total funding cost of P6 Million.
           
“It is fast, it has changed,” said Alma Agad, chairperson of San Isidro Farmers Association as she expressed her deep gratitude in her acceptance speech to the Local Government of Las Nieves and the DA MRDP.

“The face of our farming has changed, unlike before it was disorganized and scattered, but now it is fast,” Agad remarked.

The sub-projects consist of Rubber-based Plantations for Marcos Calo Farmers Association and Casiklan Wheels Farmers Association; Construction of Multi-purpose Drying Pavement with Mini-Warehouse for Pinana-an Farmers Association; Construction of Spillway and Acquisition of Farm equipment to Support Rice Production for Katipunan Farmers Association; Construction of Two Small Reservoirs and Two Submersible Pumps to Support Rice Production for the Poblacion Farmers Association; Establishment of Mini-Feed Mill for E.G. Montilla Farmers Association and Cluster Corn Mechanization and Support Enhancment San Isidro Farmers Association.
          
The LGU of Las Nieves even added P1M to the overall budget apart from their 20% counterpart to further expand the project and reach more beneficiaries. The said sub-projects are now being used in the seven barangays, especially in Barangay Pinanaan with their solar dryer and warehouse and also in Barangay San Isidro with their tractor and other production support enhancement machineries.
          
“Now that it has finally arrived, we should all take care of it for it is ours,” said Las Nieves Vice Mayor Manuel N. Biong who led the turn over ceremony together with its Sangguniang Bayan members.
          
The province of Agusan del Norte represented by OIC Provincial Agriculturist Alvin Aclan also witnessed the said ceremony as part of the workforce who facilitated the implementation of the project in support to the municipalities under MRDP2. (DA-13/PIA-Caraga)


News Feature: Livestock creates business opportunities

By Vanessa P. Sanchez

Simple interest becomes a thriving business enterprise.

A growing number of women in Surigao City are now engaged in meat processing, contributing to the rise of this industry in the city.

City Veterinarian Dr. Allan F. Quines revealed that in 2010, several vendors selling various processed meat products sprouted in the local market. Resolved to help improve the quality of their products, the Local Government Unit of Surigao City through the City Veterinary Office coordinated with the Department of Agriculture -13 and proposed for training on meat processing.

AgriPinoy Livestock Program with its Animal Product and By-product Utilization (APBPU) Component has given them the opportunity to capacitate their women.  APBU, is a post-harvest component of the DA-Livestock Program which aims to support the livestock and poultry production and growth of meat and by-product industry.  It has two components, the Waste Management Program and Meat Development under which meat processing falls.

It was in November 2010 when the first Meat Processing Training was conducted by DA-RFO 13 in coordination with Surigao City Veterinary Office. The training equipped the participants with knowledge on meat hygiene and sanitation, cutting and proper handling.

After that training, the 17 participants organized themselves to form the Association of Meat Processors of Surigao City (AMPS). They then started their own livelihood. To assist them, the LGU of Surigao City facilitated the establishment of a meat processing laboratory.  With that initiative, the Department of Agriculture through the Livestock Development Council (LDC) provided the equipments which included meat slicer, meat grinder, silent cutter, tie linker, smoke house, cooking vat, vacuum sealer and stuffer. The LGU also granted AMPS a start-up capital of P100,000.

Because of the growing interest meat processing, DA has provided in addition a refer van or cold storage unit amounting to P1.5Million in support to the slaughter house and meat processing lab in Surigao City.

Over the years, the association has expanded its membership and has continued to produce processed meat products to cater the growing number of buyers. Among AMPS’ market is the Surigao City Trade School where they deliver 30 kilos of embutido, and 5 kilos of longganisa, hotdog and chorizo twice a month.

Recently, they were able to make a deal with the Taganito Mining Company to deliver weekly 20 kilos each kind of their meat product to the company canteen.  In addition, the women also took opportunities to sell during special events in the city such as City Charter’s Day where they were able to gain P10,000 daily sales.

Some members of the association also do their own processing at home like Ruena De Paz who sells her products weekly at her husband’s office.  She would process 5 kilos of embutido which makes 40 rolls at P65 per roll and earns for her P2,600 a week.

“Dako gajud nga tabang sa among pamilya ang akong pagpamaligya ug embutido kay madugangan man akong kita (It has greatly helped my family because by selling embutido my income increased)," Ruena said. 

Dr. Maridel Zerda of the City Veterinary Office said that to date, there are about 200 swine raisers including backyard raisers, in Surigao City and meat processing is a viable way to augment their income particularly the smallholders/ backyard raisers. (DA-13/PIA-Caraga)


New TESDA deals focus on medical transcriptionists, bartenders

By Lisa Rivera

BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 5 (PIA) - Looking to further strengthen and expand its partnership with the private sector, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) has inked agreements with two organizations to enhance the skills of potential workers.

The Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Healthcare Information Management Outsourcing Association of the Philippines (HIMOAP) will involve P16.275 million worth of scholarship vouchers that will train 1,550 individuals.

This will be sourced from TESDA's Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP).

The MOA with Ginebra San Miguel (GSM) Inc., on the other hand, will provide training and livelihood opportunities to 180 beneficiaries in selected areas through the TESDA Specialista Technopreneurship Program (TSTP).  The project is in celebration of Ginebra San Miguel’s 180 years.

"TESDA's continued partnership with the private sector is a display of palpable sense of optimism in the country's technical vocational education and training," TESDA Director General Joel Villanueva said.

"Here's an assurance that investments in the Filipino skills will always yield quality workforce needed by the industries," Villanueva added.

The 180 beneficiaries under the agreement with GSM will undergo entrepreneurial and bartending training course.  TESDA will conduct the training, while the beverage firm will provide the fund, for training and livelihood opportunity through the provision of a mobile bar, including needed materials such as one set of uniform for each trainee, mobile bar tools, and a set of starter products.

With HIMOAP, TESDA will tap its partner technical vocational institutions to provide Medical Transcription Finishing Course NC II to the 1,550 beneficiaries.  The training duration will be 160 hours.

According to the agreement, the partners committed an employment rate of at least 80 percent within six months from the scholar's graduation. HIMOAP also pledged to formulate a fund replenishment scheme to extend the mileage of the scholarship program.

A contribution to a Talent Development Fund will be made by a HIMOAP-member company every time it absorbs or hires successful graduates. The Talent Development Fund will be developed, managed, and utilized solely by HIMOAP to sustain training of their needed workforce.

Signing the agreement were Villanueva for TESDA, Josefina Lauchangco for HIMOAP, and Bernard Marquez for Ginebra San Miguel.  (TESDA/PIA-Caraga)


News Feature: DILG prepares 1.2B 2016 GPB Run

By Bryan F. Edulzura

Banking on lessons learned during the Bottom Up Budgeting (now Grassroots Participatory Budgeting or GPB) 2013 and 2104 run, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region 13 commenced preparation for the approximately P1.2 Billion 2016 GPB Run with the Provincial Focal Persons and Community Mobilizers Meeting last July 30, 2014 at the Local Governance Regional Resource Center (LGRRC) in DILG 13 Regional Office, this city.

The planning process for identification, endorsement and approval of 2016 projects will begin this August and the priority list is expected to be submitted on the first quarter of 2015 for the inclusion in the 2016 General Appropriation Act (GAA).

Though the DILG, National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC), Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) are still enhancing the Joint Memorandum Circular 5 for the 2016 GPB run, the Regional Poverty Reduction Action Team (RPRAT) of Caraga Region is taking a step ahead in beefing up the mechanisms to smoothen the GPB program implementation.

Taking into previous experiences, the RPRAT through the DILG is expected to receive about a thousand (1,000) anti-poverty projects covering all 6 cities and 67 municipalities in the region. In 2015, the budget for Caraga region is pegged at P1.2 billion with an average of P15 million per local government unit (LGU).

Gaining Grounds and Inclusive People Participation

According to RPRAT chair and DILG Caraga regional director, Lilibeth A. Famacion, GPB is slowly gaining ground as it becomes more popular among civil society and local governments.  Field reports are showing that more civil society organizations especially on the basic sectors are taking active role in project identification.

“With the latest development, going along with GPB’s popularity is imperative. People participation is the lifeblood of GPB, hence; as early as now we took initiatives in preparing the ground for a more meaningful and genuine people participation. Aside from engaging community mobilizers, we also install coordination mechanisms with the department’s field workers and that of other participating agencies to streamline communications at various levels,” said Famacion.

“Cascading right information to the grassroots community ensures support and sustainability of the program,” said Urban Poor representative Johnny Serrano.

Malicious Issues against GPB

The GPB Process is not void of malicious gossip and wrong information circulated in communities.  Among the issues hurled against GPB is that it is the pork barrel of Mar Roxas and funds for these projects are funded under Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP).  “The rumor is ridiculous and is entirely not true,” Famacion points out.

"We know that the project identification is lodged under civil society rganizations (CSOs) and LGUs. DILG is only one, among the GPB participating agencies which include DOH, DSWD, DTI, DA, DAR, DOLE, DOT, NEA, TESDA, DepED, and DENR. We also know that GPB funds are operationalized through the General Appropriation Act.  As civil servants it is our duty to correct misconception and it is our moral obligation to tell the truth, nothing but the truth," she said.

Famacion also recognized that the program implementation in the previous years are not perfect.  "We are confronted with problems that somehow slowed down implementation.  Problems on project identification, change of project, LCEs influencing project to be implemented are few of the challenges we tackled. But we are installing mechanism to minimize if not eradicate these problems,” she said.

"The bottleneck of this program is on the ability of the stakeholder to identify projects that really address poverty situation in the countryside.  Notable in the previous years’ proposal is the lack of projects for the fisherfolk and their families," Famacion added.

The Local Poverty Reduction Action Team (LPRAT) whose members include 50% from the CSOs and 50% from the LGU, are the one to endorse the projects for funding.  The challenge is the ability of the CSO to articulate the projects they really need and generate support from the LGU.

Surigao del Sur Persons With Disability (PWD) federation president William Aguilar vowed that they will push for more projects that will benefit the fishermen and PWD sectors.

More than just Anti-Poverty Projects

GPB is actually more than just an anti-poverty initiative but it is also a good governance program as well. It encourages transparency and people participation in the local planning process. “We recognized that the poor knows better what projects to implement to free them from the claws of poverty and that corruption is curbed when people are involved in government finances,” said GPB regional focal personJocelyn Jayoma.  

“We need to inculcate that good governance means more access to incentives to fund development projects,” she added.

Bracing for more

“We expect that more stakeholders are interested to look into the GPB process considering that PDAF and DAP projects are under fire.  We welcome those interested parties – supporter and critics alike to really look into the program. With this, we give more meaning to people participation in local governance,” Famacion concluded. (DILG-13/PIA-Caraga)


Newly-established prov’l training center in Surigao del Norte, inaugurated

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 5 (PIA) - The provincial government of Surigao del Norte and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) have recently inaugurated the newly-constructed provincial community training center located at Bad-as, Placer town.

In her speech, Surigao del Norte governor Sol F. Matugas emphasized that this undertaking is another milestone under the livelihood component of the HEALS Development Agenda. HEALS is the province’s flagship program which means Health, Education and Environment, Agriculture and Aquaculture, Livelihood, Tourism, Social Welfare, and Spiritual Renewal.

“Our province-wide vision takes us towards a God-centered, empowered, and globally-competitive and prosperous Surigaonons. Keeping this in the heart of all our undertakings in serving our people, we have not gone away with our accountability for those who are in the deepest need of an avenue wherein they can achieve self-enhancement opportunities,” Gov. Matugas said.

The province’s chief executive also stressed that to be able to fully accomplish something as great as the establishment of the provincial community training center is very fulfilling, knowing that everything will be for the good of the sector we deem important in our journey towards “Ang Bag-ong Surigao.”

The official further said the youth sector specifically the out-of-school youths and the province’s constituents who are in extreme need for skills enhancements will be helped with the operation of the training center. “In here, will our beneficiaries be given the chance for better job opportunities fitting the skills they will be learning in the acilities,” Matugas said.

Matugas likewise pointed out that the Surigaonons are grateful indeed, that though the Private-Public Partnership (PPP) with the mining companies, the province has already reached this far in giving light to the dreams of their constituents.

“In behalf of the constituents in Surigao del Norte, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the mining industries who have been very much active in partnering with us, supporting our big leaps in bringing forth our plans, programs and projects that promotes the welfare of our province,” Gov. Matugas said.

With the strong partnership that the provincial government has created with the private sector, Gov. Matugas said Surigaonons have become all the more assured to be able to bring greater dreams into reality, and the inclusive growth the people wanted to achieve will finally be on hand.

The lady governor likewise vowed to have more projects that will pave better roads for the brighter future of the people in the province. “Thank you everyone, and rest assured that this structure will certainly still be followed by more projects that would help us pave better roads for the brighter future of our populace,” Matugas said.

The two-day affair was graced by TESDA Deputy Director-General for Field Operations Atty. Teodoro C. Pascua and Cong. Mel Sarmiento, Vice Chairman of the Commission on Appointments, who ceremonially cut the chain, signifying the opening of the training center’s operation. (TESDA-13/PIA-Caraga)


Tagalog News: Gobyerno determinado sa paglikas ng mga Pilipino mula sa Libya, sabi ng isang opisyal ng Palasyo

Ni David M. Suyao

AGUSAN DEL SUR, Agosto 5 (PIA) - Sinabi ng Palasyo noong Lunes na determinado ang gobyerno na dalhin pauwi ang mga Pilipinong manggagawa (OFW) na nanganganib ang buhay sa Libya.

“Para doon sa mga nakakita ang kanilang sarili na talagang nasa panganib na kalagayan, gusto talaga ng pamahalaan na makauwi sila ng ligtas,” sabi ni Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda sa mga reporter noong siya ay nakipanayam sa Malakanyang.

Ayon sa Department of Foreign Affairs, (DFA) humigit-kumulang mga 831 na Pilipino ang nakabalik mula sa Libya hanggang Agosto 3, 2014.

Subalit napansin din ni Seretary Lacierda na marami ang dahilan kung bakit ang ibang Pilipino sa Libya ay ayaw umuwi.

“Halimbawa, marami sa kanila ang nakapga-asawa ng taga Libya mismo. Kaya mahirap biyakin ang pamilya ‘pag ganoon ang situation,” paliwanag niya.

Para doon na takot na makakaharap ang kawalan ng trabaho sa kanilang pagbalik, sinabi ni Lacierda na ang Department of Labor and Employment ay maaring tumulong sa kanila na makahanap ng trabaho dito sa bansa o kaya sa labas ng bansa.

"Nangyari na sa atin ito. Kung inyong matandaan, sa ating alitan laban sa Taiwan, tinitingnan na natin ang ibang bansa na gustong kumuha ng ating mga OFW. Halimbawa, sa Batangas, may kompanya doon na tinatawag na AG&P na siyang kumuha ng maraming OFW para sa kanilang kalakal,” sabi niya.

Sabi niya, ang pamahalaan ay sinusubukang makontak ang mga OFW sa pamamagitan ng pakipag-ugnayan sa mga komunidad ng Pilipino sa Libya, pati na sa kanilang mga kamag-anak dito sa Pilipinas. (DMS/PIA-Agusan del Sur)


Cebuano News: District Convention sa Free and Accepted Masons of the Phils nagmalamposon

Ni Mary Jul E. Escalante

SURIGAO CITY, Agosto 5 (PIA) – Malamposon nga gipahigayon ang usa ka district convention nga gipasiugdahan sa Masonic District RXIII-A bag-ohay pa lamang didto sa Philippine Gateway Hotel, ning syudad.

Ang usa ka adlaw nga kalihukan nagdala sa tema nga, “Serbisyong  Makatotohanan Para sa Kapatiran at Mamamayan.”

Sa iyang mensahe isip pinasidunggang mamumulong si Surigao del Norte Gov. Sol F. Matugas miingon nga  mao kini ang unang higayon nga siya nakatambong sa maong kalihukan sa Free and Accepted Masons of the Philippines diin siya nakadayeg sa ilang guiding principles nga mao ang brotherly love, relief ug truth.

Nagpasalamat usab ang gobernador kang Cesario Espejon ang nangulo sa Mt. Diwata lodge No. 236 sa Surigao sa opurtunidad nga siya nakatambong sa maong kalihukan diin iya usab gipaabot ang mga plano, programa ug proyekto sa panggamhanan sa probinsya ubos sa iyang HEALS plus agenda.


Ubay ubay nga mga mason ang nakadayeg sa programang HEALS plus sa gobernador diin ilang nakita ang tinud-anay nga pagserbisyo ug ang kinatibuk-ang pag uswag sa katawhan ug sa lalawigan sa Surigao del Norte.

Mitambong sa maong okasyon ang mga miyembro ug delegado sa Free and Accepted Masons of the Phils. nga naglangkob sa Agusan ug Surigao. (SDR/PIO-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Monday, August 4, 2014

Habitat Butuan builds disaster-resilient houses in Hinatuan villages

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 4 (PIA) – The Butuan Habitat for Humanity Incorporated (BHFHI) started the construction of disaster-resilient houses worth P91,000.00 per building in the barangays of Loyola and Talisay in the municipality of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur.

According to Engr. Heddy Sumalpong, Butuan Habitat vice president and chairperson on construction committee, and the one handling the special projects of Habitat, a total target of 280 houses will soon be completed in the aforementioned barangays.

“Butuan Habitat has started the construction of 280 posts/walls in the said barangays where the houses will be built. We have partnered with San Miguel Corporation who never hesitated to provide us the funding for the 170 houses. And in close coordination also with the municipal government of Hinatuan through Mayor Candelario Viola Jr., the 280 houses will soon be completed. Later on, the 280 houses will be turned-over to the beneficiaries,” bared Sumalpong.

Said official also revealed that the beneficiaries of said houses are Typhoon Sendong victims. “There are still many of them who needs shelter after being hit by Sendong in 2011, that’s why we started looking for donors in 2012 and we are so fortunate to have San Miguel Corporation for this humanitarian effort. Their contribution to this project really means a lot. Mayor Viola also expressed his commitment to help us finish the project since it will be built in the barangays of his municipality,” she articulated.

Sumalpong also emphasized that these houses are disaster-resilient in such a way that the houses are structurally made that lessens wind pressure during typhoons and decreases the risk of structural destruction over time.

“Butuan Habitat does not only provide decent but also disaster-resilient houses to protect the family-beneficiaries,” she added.

Habitat will also intensify disaster preparedness in this community thru conducting trainings in coordination with the local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council and government agencies concerned.

The BHFHI is a non-government organization working on a mission to provide decent and durable shelters and has built more than a thousand houses in Caraga region and is currently helping the disaster-affected families by helping them establish a new home to live in. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)


RDC-Caraga opens photo, jingle-making competition

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, August 4 (PIA) – The Regional Development Council (RDC) - Caraga in partnership with the GIZ-German Agency for International Cooperation is now accepting entries for the photography and jingle-making competitions bearing the theme, “Be the Agent of Change,” as one of the many strategies of communicating the Revised Regional Development Plan (RDP) 2013-2016.

The photo competition is open to all hobbyists, novices and professionals. Winning prize category will be P2,000 for the third prize, P3,000-second prize, and P4,000-first prize and the most liked photo.

On the other hand, amateur and professional songwriters, whether group or individual, are also encouraged to join the jingle-making challenge with P15,000 at stake for the first prize winner, P10,000 and P5,000 also for the first prize winners, respectively.

The contest secretariat will accept song entries of not more than 60 seconds in length. Original photos and song competition must be submitted at the Natonal Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) – Caraga regional office located at Nimfa Tiu Bldg., J. Rosales Avenue, this City.

Submission of entries is from August 5 to 31, 2014.

For more details and mechanics of the competition, you may visit caraga.neda.gov.ph/caraga or call at telephone numbers 085-341-4195 or 342-5774-local 18 or 19. (VLG/PIA- Caraga)


2,983 dengue cases recorded in Caraga region

By Nora L. Molde

BUTUAN CITY, AUG. 4 (PIA) – The Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (RESU) of the Department of Health (DOH) Caraga region has recorded a total of 2,983 dengue cases in the region.

The RESU 30th Morbidity Week report covering July 20 to 26 states that the dengue cases reported were admitted to different disease reporting units region wide from January 1 to July 26, 2014.

The report has recorded and noted a seven percent higher compared to same time period of last year with 2,016 cases.

Also, RESU reported a clustering of cases at Barangays of Poblacion, Tabon and Mangagoy in Bislig City; Barangay Bunyasan in  Malimono and Barangays Ipil and Magsaysay in Placer, Surigao del Norte; and Barangay Cagniog in Surigao City. The clustering cases are defined as having more than two or more cases in a particular area of the date and time.

The following is the distribution of suspect Dengue cases by province and city arranged from highest to lowest number of cases: Agusan del Sur – 729; Butuan City – 725; Surigao del Sur – 330; Surigao del Norte – 249; Agusan del Norte – 213; Bayugan City – 182; Surigao City – 179; Bislig City 155; Cabadbaran City – 106; Tandag City – 100; and Dinagat Islands with 15 cases.

RESU also recorded ages of cases ranged from less than one month old to 90 years old. The distribution of cases is greater among Males which is 51% than Females that is 49%. The report also shows a 41% of the cases belonged to zero to 10 years age group.

From January 1 to July 26, 2014, a total of 17 deaths were also reported from the different Disease Reporting Units region wide with a case fatality rate (CFR) of .56%.

Deaths came from: Barangay Ambago, Amparo, Ampayon, Baan Riverside, Silongan and Pangabugan, Butuan City – 7; Barangay Poblacion 3 in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte - 2; Barangay Poblacion in Bislig City – 1; Barangay Poblacion (Bahbah), Prosperidad and Barangay Libuac in Rosario, Agusan del Sur – 2; Barangay Cabinet and Barangay 4 and Puting Bato in Cabadbaran City with 3; and Barangay Gamut, Barobo and Barangay Palo Alto in Lingig, Surigao del Sur with 2 deaths. (NCLM/PIA-Caraga)


DILG conducts gab on women’s Magna Carta in Dinagat Islands

By Ma.Jane Mayola

SAN JOSE, Dinagat Islands, Aug. 4 (PIA) - The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) in partnership with the Gender and Development Coordinating Council (GADCC) of Dinagat Islands conducted a two-day orientation-workshop on the Localization of the Magna Carta of Women from July 31 to August 1, 2014 held at the SP Session Hall, San Jose, this province.

The activity aims to strengthen the local implementation of gender sensitivity; gender equality and other gender-related issues including the harmonized Gender and Development (GAD) guidelines for project development, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation.

During the said activity, DILG Dinagat Islands provincial director Domingo Bulabog emphasized that the event was made for the enlightenment of everybody about women's rights and privileges, and promotion of gender equality since equal treatment to men and women is one of the keys towards community development.

The orientation-workshop was participated by the provincial department heads, employees, municipal planning and development officers, municipal planning and development coordinators from the different municipalities of the province. (SDR/PIO Dinagat Islands/PIA-Dinagat Islands)


Mindanao tree planting program attempts world record

BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 4 (PIA) - Mindanawons will try to break the Guinness world record for most trees planted simultaneously at multiple locations on September 26, 2014 – a world record-breaking attempt that will mobilize 185,440 people who will give a shot at planting 4,636,000 trees at various sites covering a total area of 9,200 hectares within the island-region.

Co-organized by the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), in partnership with the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Interior and Local Government,  the world record attempt is designed to entice massive participation by various stakeholders and sectors in efforts to hit the Mindanao target for the National Greening Program (NGP).

Dubbed as “TreeVolution: Greening MindaNOW,” the Guinness world record attempt will combine the efforts of DENR’s NGP and MinDA’s MindaNOW! Nurturing Our Waters Program, which aim to plant trees in 690,815 hectares and reach at least 30 percent forest cover as envisioned in the Mindanao 2020 Peace and Development Framework Plan or Mindanao 2020.

The current world record for the most number of trees planted simultaneously at multiple locations was achieved in India on August 15, 2011, which hit the record of planting of 1,945,535 trees. The world record was carried out by 340,200 participants across 408 locations.

“We encourage every Mindanawon to participate in this endeavor, which will not only elevate the island-region as a Guinness world record holder, but more importantly will also provide the constituents the opportunity to be part of the larger efforts to reforest Mindanao,” said MinDA Chair Luwalhati Antonino.

She added that should Mindanao be successful in this attempt, this would become the country’s second Guinness world record in the tree-planting category.

The country’s first Guinness world record for most trees planted simultaneously (single site) was achieved in Camarines Sur on February 23, 2011. In breaking the world record, 6,893 participants actively took part in the activity and planted 64,096 trees in a 32-hectare area.

“This looks like an insurmountable task, but with a well-planned and synchronized mobilization, coordination, and information campaign, there is no doubt that Mindanawons can carry out this challenge,” added Antonino.

Part of the guidelines in breaking the Guinness world record requires the simultaneous planting of trees in exactly one hour.  A pre-registration must be conducted to ensure the correct number of participants, while an official head count of the number of trees planted must also be documented in writing.

Digging machinery cannot be used during the planting, and actual digging of plots must take place at the time of planting, not prior to the attempt.

“One of the main goals of this Guinness attempt is to showcase collaborative efforts in Mindanao, particularly on the island-region’s greening efforts,” said Joselin Marcus Fragada, DENR XI regional director.

The activity is also part of the long-term campaign by DENR and MinDA’s MindaNOW! Program to instill among Mindanawons the consciousness towards ecological integrity as climate change adaptation.

He added that in order to break the record, DENR, MinDA, and its partner agencies will mobilize all of their employees, as well as the people’s organizations, academe, national government agencies, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Philippine National Police, business sector, and religious groups to participate in the attempt.

“We are practically encouraging almost every Mindanawon to be part of this endeavor, which we hope would solicit a greater public participation and appreciation on the government’s efforts in growing back some of the forests of Mindanao,” said Fragada.

Part of the guidelines however requires that participants to the attempt must be at least 17 years of age. Interested parties may coordinate with their local DENR offices or their local government units. (MinDA/PIA-Caraga)


SurSur DepEd chief pays tribute to Army 36IB on founding anniversary

By Greg Tataro Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Aug. 4 (PIA) – Surigao del Sur Department of Education (DepEd) chief Teofila Cabatuan lauded the 36th Infantry (Valor) Battalion under Lt. Col. Anastacio Suaybaguio, Jr. during its 40th Founding Anniversary celebration on August 1.

With the theme: “36IB: Ika Upat ka Dekada nga Pagserbisyo sa Katawhan ug Pagbantay sa Yutang Gisaad (36IB: Four Decades of Providing Service to the People and Security to the Land of Promise),” Cabatuan, who is also Tandag City schools division superintendent in concurrent capacity, said that the Valorians have truly lived up to what they are.

The DepEd chief, who was one among those requested to deliver a message during the culmination program, stressed that the “36IB has always been a partner in providing services to the school children.”

Pointing out to the many school activities that the DepEd here had undertaken especially each time during the conduct of Brigada Eskwela, she said that “Brigada Eskwela will never be the same without the Valorians.”

 “Each year before the opening of classes, these men in uniform can always be seen in schools under the heat of the sun. . .”

Citing the TESDA-made armchairs hauled from Agusan to any point of destination in the province including Tandag City, Cabatuan took pride in saying that “Without your efforts, your initiatives, we could have brought these chairs. . . at so much cost, at so much time, so maraming salamat (thank you so much), Valorians!”

Likewise, at one instance during the conduct of the Caraga Regional Athletic Meet (CRAM) hosted by the province in March this year, she recalled seeing Lt. Col. Suaybaguio manned the checkpoint “hands on” at the Surigao del Sur Sports Center.

 “Kung may police visibility, mayroon ding army visibility (If there is police visibility, there is also army visibility),” she remarked.

Cabatuan said in closing, “To all the wonderful deeds you’ve done to the school children of Surigao del Sur and Tandag City, of course, I cannot thank you enough.  But on behalf of the teachers, pupils, students, parents, let me extend my heartfelt appreciation to you guys. Your support will go a long way for the future of the schoolchildren.  My salute to the 36IB!  Congratulations on your 40th Anniversary!” (NGBT/Radyo ng Bayan/PIA-Surigao del Sur)


OWWA Caraga opens search for MOFYA 2014

By Jean Mary G. Ronquillo

BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 4 (PIA) - The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Regional Welfare Office Caraga is now accepting nominees for this year’s search for Model OFW Year Award (MOFYA) from the following sectors: Non-Government Organizations (NGOs), Peoples’ Organizations (POs), Religious Groups, Community based Socio-Civic Organizations and Local Government Units (LGUs).

The MOFYA search is an award-giving program held annually. It is designed to give recognition to outstanding OFW families in recognition to the valuable efforts in the face of overseas migration.

The MOFYA focuses on OFWs and their families who have maintained strong family relations, properly managed the financial benefits from the OFWs’ overseas employment, have educational achievements and exemplary performance in their respective professions, and at the same time have a positive impact in the community where they reside.

To be eligible for nomination, the family must be headed by an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW), land-based or sea-based, formerly or presently working abroad with a formal or informal contract of employment or work permit, and must have a proof of OWWA membership.

Initial screening of the MOFYA nominees will be conducted on August 15, 2014. Regional winners of MOFYA for both sea-based and land-based category will receive a cash prize and will be the region’s entry to the national level.

For more information about the program, kindly visit the OWWA Caraga office at Nimfa Tiu Bldg. II, J.P. Rosales Avenue, Butuan City or contact us at (085) 342-6178/2255989. (OWWA-13/PIA-Caraga)


Tagalog News: Palasyo inulit-ulit ang panawagan sa mga Pilipinong nasa Libya na ilikas ang kanilang sarili

Ni David M. Suyao

AGUSAN DEL SUR, Agosto 4 (PIA) - Inulit ng Malakanyang noong Linggo ang kanilang panawagan sa mga Pilipino na nasa Libya na ilikas ang kanilang sarili habang patuloy ang hidwaan doon.

“Tinatawagan po muli ang ating mga kababayang nasa Libya at pati na rin ang kanilang mga kamag-anak dito na pagtulungan po natin ang paghikayat sa kanila na lumikas na sa lalong madaling panahon para sa kanilang kaligtasan,” sabi ni Presidential Communication Operations Office Secretary Hermio Coloma, Jr., saisang panayam sa media sa pamamagitan ng dzRB Radyo ng Bayan.

Sabi niya na si Charges d’ affaires Adelio Angelito Cruz, pinuno ng Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Rapid Response Team ay nasa Tripoli, Libya pa rin para maseguro na lahat ng mga Pilipino sa Libya ay makakauwi.

Linumpirma ng DFA noong nakaraang Linggo na isang Pilipinong nagtatrabaho sa konstruksiyon ay pinugutan ng ulo sa Benghazi habang isang Pilipinang nurse ay pinalaya ng hidi kilalang mga armado sa Tripoli matapos siyang bihagin at gahasain.

Hinihikayat din ni Coloma ang mga kamag-anak ng mga Pilipino na nagtatrabaho para makipag-ugnayan sa DFA dito sa Manila.

“Maaari din pong tumawag ang mga pamilya ng ating mga mamamayang Pilipino sa DFA 24-hour hotline at ito po ay ang mga sumusunod: 552-7105 at 834-4685 para i-rehistro ang kanilang mga kamag-anak sa Libya para sila ay mailikas at madala sa ligtas na lugar,” sabi ni Coloma.

“Maaaring kumontak ang mga Pilipino sa ating embahada sa Tripoli sa pamamagitan ng mga teleponong ito—ang prefix po ay 00218—at ang mga numero ay ang mga sumusunod: 918-244-208 / 914-370-399 / 945-348-481; at ang mga email address naman po ay tripoli.pe@gmail.com at tripoli.pe@dfa.gov.ph,” dagdag pa niya. (DMS/PIA-Agusan del Sur)


Tagalog News: Pagsisikap ng pamahalaan sa paglaban sa mga pagpatay sa media nanatiling walang humpay

Ni David M. Suyao

AGUSAN DEL SUR, Agosto 4 (PIA) - Nilalatag na ng pamahalaan ang mga reporma para itaguyod ang proteksyon sa mga mamamahayag, sabi ng isang opisyal ng Palasyo noong Sabado.

“Pagtunton at pagkumpiska sa loose firearms, pagpapahusay sa kapabilidad ng mga alagad ng batas, pagpapatatag sa sistema ng katarungan, pagsuporta sa pagpapalaganap ng media ethics and standards—‘yan ang mga haligi ng programa ng pamahalaan upang mapigil ang karahasan laban sa mga mamamahayag,” sabi ni Presidential Communication Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr., sa isang panayam sa media sa pamamagitan ng dzRB Radyo ng Bayan.

Ang pinakahuling mamamahayag na pinatay ay si Nilo Baculo Sr., 67, isang brodkaster mula sa Capalan Mindoro. Siya ay isang mamamahayag sa programa sa radyo na pinamagatan ng “Isumbong Mo kay Ka Nilo" sa isang local na estasyon ng radyo dwIM.

Ayon sa ulat, si Bagulo ay pang-29 na mamamahayag na pinatay mula 2010.

Tiniyak ni Coloma sa publiko na ang pamahalaan ay gumagawa ng mga hakbang para ipagtanggol ang mga mamamahayag sa pakipag koordinasyon sa National Press Club at iba pang may mga kaugnayang ahensya.

“Patuloy na nakikipag-ugnayan at nakikipagtulungan ang pamahalaan sa National Press Club at iba pang samahang nakatuon sa pangangalaga ng karapatan ng mga mamamahayag upang labanan at wakasan ang karahasang humantong sa pagpaslang at pagsugat sa mga kasapi ng kanilang hanay,” sabi ni Coloma. (DMS/PIA-Agusan del Sur)


Cebuano News: Surigao City DRRMC mipahigayon og Search and Rescue Operation, Hostage Assault Scenario

SURIGAO CITY, Agosto 4 (PIA) – Malamposong gipahigayon ang usa ka Search and Rescue Operation ug Hostage Assault Scenario bag-ohay pa lamang didto sa City Boulevard ning dakbayan.

Ang mga miyembro sa City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council sa pagpangulo ni City Mayor Ernesto Matugas sa pakigtambayayong sa Philippine Maritime Police, Philippine Coast Guard, Emergency Response Service, Philippine Red Cross, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine National Police ug lakip usab ang usab ang mga estudyante sa maritime gikan sa Surigao Education Center, ug mga personahe sa Office of the Civil Defense nga gipangulohan ni Direktor Liza Mazo.

Ang maong aktibidad gihimo agig pagsunod sa kasaulogan sa National Disaster Consciousness Month sulod sa bulan sa Hulyo, pinaagi sa CDRRMC ug gisaksihan sa mga Surigaonon. (SDR/MICO-Surigao City/PIA-Surigao del Norte)


Cebuano News: Laing 642 nakadawat ug Philhealth card sa Buenavista

Ni Roselyn G. Exaure and Rolando B. Lopez

BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 4 (PIA) - Mokabat sa napulo ka mga barangays o 642 ka mga indibidwal sa lungsod sa Buenavista ang laing nakadawat sa libreng Philhealth Identification Cards gikan sa panggamhanang probinsyal sa Agusan del Norte.

Niadtong adlaw sa Biyernes, Agosto 1, gibisitahan sa mga empleyado sa Provincial Social Welfare Population and Nutrition Services Office (PSWPNSO) sa pagpanguna sa ilang hepe nga si Daisybiel O. Demavivas ug mga representante sa Philhealth Caraga ang Barangay Hall sa Barangay 2 kon diin gidawat sa mga benepisyaryo ang ilang mga ID's.

Sa nasayran, ang Barangay 1 sa pagpanguna ni Kapitan Eduardo C. Gabales aduna kini 63 ka mga benepisyaryo, sa Barangay 2 sa pagpanguna ni Kapitan Rianne Catabas adunay 56 ka mga benepisyaryo, sa Barangay 3 sa pagpanguna ni Kapitan Caridad L. Alaba adunay 123 ka mga benepisyaryo, sa Barangay 4 sa pagpanguna ni Mr. Eddie Jamero adunay 41 ka mga benepisyaryo, sa Barangay 5 sa pagpanguna ni Kapitan Paul G. Racho adunay 55 ka mga benepisyaryo.

Gibisita usab sa grupo ang Barangay 8 covered court aron ipadayon ang pagpang-apod-apod sa laing lima ka mga Barangays, kon diin sa Barangay 6 sa pagpanguna ni Mr. Gil S. Gonzaga adunay 52 ka mga benepisyaryo, sa Barangay 7 sa pagpanguna ni Kapitan Panfilo M. Lamostre adunay 70 ka mga benepisyaryo, sa Barangay 8 sa pagpanguna ni Kapitan Hernando L. Vasques adunay 43 ka mga benepisyaryo, sa Barangay 9 sa pagpanguna ni Jose V. Bernardino adunay 62 ka mga benepisyaryo ug sa Barangay 10 sa pagpanguna ni Mrs. Prisilina P. Amoroso nga adunay 77 ka mga benepisyaryo.

Niadtong Hulyo 23, adunay 322 ka mga benepisyaryo usab ang nakadawat ug Philhealth card, 484 niadtong Hulyo 24 ug laing 172 niadtong Hulyo  31.  Mikabat na sa 1,620 ka mga benepisyaryo ang nakadawat ug Philhealth card sa lungsod sa Buenavista pinaagi sa PSWPNSO ug sa pagpangulo ug pagpaningkamot ni gobernador Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba. (NCLM/LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)