Monday, June 1, 2015

OWWA to celebrate 20th Migrant Workers Day

By Susil D. Ragas and Jean Mary Ronquillo

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, June 1 (PIA) - The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) will be celebrating the 20th Migrant Workers Day dubbed “Araw ng Pasasalamat” on June 7, 2015 to show the government’s resolve of honoring and recognizing the valuable contributions of OFWs to the country.

This year’s celebration is anchored on the theme, “Kasanayan at Husay sa Paggawa, Proteksyon ng Migranteng Manggagawa.” In Caraga region, the event will be held at Surigao del Norte Provincial Gymnasium from 8:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. The one day celebration will include fun-filled activities such as parlor games, raffle draws and dance competition.

OWWA-13 regional director Samuel Madrid enjoins all Caraganon Overseas Filipino Workers (vacationing and returnees) including their families, especially those from Surigao del Norte area, to participate in this celebration dedicated for them.

To register, please visit the nearest Public Employment Service Office (PESO) or contact the OWWA Regional Welfare Office-13 with telephone numbers (085) 342-6178/815-1894. (SDR/OWWA-Caraga/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Global Surigaonons conduct tree planting for Lake Mainit shores reforestration

By Zimmbodilion Peter Mosende

MAINIT, Surigao del Norte, June 1 (PIA) — Migrants and residents of Mainit, Surigao del Norte led by the online facebook group, Mainitnon Gihapon, in collaboration with the local government of Barangay Quezon, joined hands recently in planting more than 600 bangkal trees along the Bitan-ag area of Lake Mainit shore.

Members of Mainitnon Gihapon or MG are local and migrants Mainitnons from all over the world. Many have come home as far as Canada, North America, Europe, Middle East, North Africa, and Australia to join this year’s 2nd global reunion which included a support to the tree planting cause.

Several members of MG, even prior to its existence as a facebook group (founded Dec 2011) (http://pidjanga.blogspot.com/2011/12/mainitnon-gihapon-mg-facebook-group.html), have been strong supporters of the re-greening and reforestation efforts for the lake. This included support to the first ever tree planting efforts of the online group Mainit Dot Org (MDO) in 2006 with 300 bangkal trees planted, followed by Tambayayong Mainit, Inc. (TMI) in 2009 and 2012 (600 bangkal and susot trees), all on the eastern side of the lake shore called Panayakpan.

Incumbent barangay captain and a tree enthusiast Gaudencio Mondano, who has extensive experience on reforestation in Papua New Guinea, pushed the lake shore reforestation as one of the barangay’s top priority development agenda. The barangay named this as the Panayakpan Ecopark project.

With a convincing proposal, and armed with evidence from the previous tree planting experiments that both bangkal and susot trees are guob-resitant which means they can survive in long term flooding, the Philippine Red Cross granted a P300,000 seed fund for the establishment of a barangay nursery and planting of additional trees. By end of 2014, the barangay has planted almost a thousand trees spanning around two kilometers of lake shore from Barangay Quezon to the neighboring Barangay Mabini.

The MG-led tree planting this year covers the western portion of the lake going to Barangay San Isidro. A total of 625 bangkal trees were planted spanning around 1.5 kilometers of lakeshore.

“With its capacity to hold water of up to 40 liters a day, a throng of fully grown bangkal trees has a potential to help mitigate the effects of the dreaded annual lake flooding,” said Mondano.

“I am so happy to be back home after several years of living abroad. I am so excited to be of help,” shared Crispo Salino, an MG member based in Canada who also joined the activity.

“This has always been among my advocacies. My dream is to see one day that the 62-kilometer shoreline of Lake Mainit will be fully reforested so that our children, grandchildren and their grandchildren would enjoy the beauty of the ecopark. It is my prayer that with the joint efforts of Mainitnons and Surigaonons, we will be able to see again the beautiful lakeshore forest which existed in this very lake a century ago,” expressed Manila-based MG member and Pidjanga blogger (www.pidjanga.blogspot.com) Zimmbodilion Peter Mosende who was also among the force behind the successful tree planting projects of MDO and TMI since 2006.

Members of Mainitnon Gihapon have suggested that this project be sustained in the coming years with the hope that fellow Mainitnons will realize the importance of trees in the lake’s ecosystem, and the neighboring lakeshore towns will replicate barangay Quezon's success. (MG member/PIA-Caraga)

Gov’t conducted Bayanihan through Peace Caravan in Agusan del Sur

By Maj Christian C Uy

CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City, June 1 (PIA) – The local government unit (LGU) of Agusan del Sur province led by its governor, Hon. Adolph Edward G. Plaza, together with the national and local agencies, Philippine National Police (PNP), and 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, conducted the 2-day Peace Caravan dubbed as “Nagkakaisang bayan para sa kapayapaan. The Government works for you” in far-flung communities of Loreto town on May 28-29, 2015.

On board five Huey Helicopters of Philippine Air Force, trucks and light vehicles, said government officials went to Brgys. Kauswagan and Manawe of Loreto, Agusan del Sur, and provided programs and services for the people.

Loreto town has been one of the hotbed areas as far as insurgency is concerned in Caraga. Since the deployment of the Community Organizing for Peace and Development (COPD) in year 2013, a Bayanihan activity that is being facilitated by the Philippine Army, LGUs and government line agencies in support to peace and development initiatives, the delivery of programs and services gradually changed the perception of the people to include the New People’s Army (NPA) and their mass supporters into believing that it is only through these developments we can solve the problems and alleviate their plights.

Municipal Mayor Dario Otaza of said town welcomed everyone and expressed his utmost gratitude to all the stakeholders during the 2-day program.

Present also during the activity were Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process (OPAPP) Secretary Teresita Deles; Usec Gettie Sandoval of OPAPP; Usec Emmanuel Bautista, executive director of the Cabinet Cluster on Security, Justice and Peace; Usec Ronaldo Geron, deputy executive secretary for Finance and Administration Chris Morales of the Department of Agriculture (DA); Director Leocadio Trovela of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG); LtGen Aurelio  Baladad, commander of Eastern Mindanao Command, Major General Oscar Lactao, commander of the 4th Infantry Division and other representatives of regional and provincial directors.

Government services include medical mission by the Provincial Health Office; project turn-over of Timbangan ng Bayan by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI); hand-over of land titles by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) and Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR); skills training and scholarships for Provincial Community Training Center by TESDA-13; distribution of seedlings and livestocks by the Provincial Agriculture Office; implementation of OPAPP’s big ticket project which is the farm-to-market road connecting Talacogon, La Paz, Loreto, Veruela, Bunawan, all of Agusan del Sur; and Kasalan ng Bayan conducted by the Municipality of Loreto local government.

“Just like what I’ve said before, through the Internal Peace and Security Operation (IPSO) or the Bayanihan activities, all stakeholders have worked together to achieve a common goal that is to bring hope for the people and create a peaceful community that is ready for further development. The role of the Philippine Army is to ensure that all of these government projects and services will be safely delivered in your communities,” MGen Lactao said.

After the giving of programs and services to the people, the national and local dignitaries proceeded with the ceremonial hand-over of support to 154 former rebels (FR) who finally decided to go back to mainstream society. These FRs have received support based from the Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP) from the LGU of Agusan del Sur.

Further, a total of 152 high-powered and low-powered firearms were surrendered by the FRs. Only those who have firearms are entitled to receive cash assistance from the Guns for Peace Program of the Armed Forces of the Philippines but the amount will depend on the result of the joint validation and authentication committee (JVAC) as remuneration to the guns surrendered. Moreover, Mayor Otaza also provided cash assistance to the FRs.

“We congratulate our brothers and sisters who have returned to their normal life. Thank you for finally leaving the non-sense armed struggle and believing that the only solution to the problem is to take part on the peace initiatives in your communities. Rest assured that these continuing programs will reach not only to this area but in all corners of the archipelago. Walang iwanan (no one will be left behind),” said Usec Bautista during his speech. (INF, PA/PIA-Caraga)

DOST’s complementary food helps dip malnutrition in Agusan del Norte town, study says

BUTUAN CITY, June 1 (PIA) - The complementary food feeding program of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in Jabonga, a third class municipality in Agusandel Norte, helped decrease malnutrition incidence from a high of 74 percent to 34 percent, according to a study.

The study, tied up with a 120-day complementary food feeding program, was conducted by DOST’s  Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI).

Findings showed that the significant increase in body weights of children is attributed to the 120-day complementary food feeding program implemented by DOST, through its attached agency FNRI.  The latter developed several variants of said complementary food.

This feeding program is a continuous undertaking in partnership with the Municipality of Jabonga and its Municipal Department of Social Welfare and Development office.

“As part of DOST’s commitment to help curb malnutrition in the country, we have developed the complementary food  technology  through the FNRI several years ago with extensive research using readily available raw materials like rice and monggo,” said DOST Secretary Mario G. Montejo.

The DOST-FNRI developed and rolled out three kinds of complementary foods, namely the Rice-Mongo Curls, the Rice-Mongo Baby Food Blend (Instant) and the Rice-Monggo with Sesame.

Complementary food samples were formally presented during the Science Nation Tour (SNT) in CARAGA recently.  Sec. Montejo handed over a basketful of complementary foods to Jabonga Mayor Jasmin F. Monton, who welcomed the DOST intervention as a very effective innovation that addressed the municipality’s malnutrition problem.

“Nagpapasalamat kami ng lubusan sa DOST para sa programang complementary food feeding program dahil ito ay nakabawas sa malnutrisyon ng mga bata sa Jabongana may edad mula anim na buwan hanggang tatlong taon sa loob ng 120 araw (We thank the DOST for the complementary food feeding program because it reduced malnutrition of the children in Jabonga with ages from six months to three years old in a span of 120 days),” said Mayor Jabonga.

The Rice-Mongo Curls, a blend of rice flour and mongo, is crispy  with an appealing cereal taste enhanced by artificial flavours. This product contains 130 kcal of energy and 4 grams protein per 30 grams. This is enough to meet the 12 percent of recommended energy and 14.3 percent of recommended protein intake of children with age of one to three years.

As a nutritious snack, it contains 15 milligram of calcium, one milligram of iron and 21 grams of carbohydrates.

The Rice-Mongo Baby Food Blend (plain variety), meanwhile, is an instant food preparation rich in protein and energy, processed using the extrusion cooking method. It contains 120 kcal and 4 grams protein per 30 grams. This formulation is enough to meet 17 percent of recommended energy and nutrient intake (RENI) for children aged six to 12 months and 29 percent of recommended protein intake for children of the same age.

The Rice-Monggo Baby Food Blend contains 140 calories (19 percent RENI) and four grams of protein (19.4 percent RENI) for children aged six to 12 months.

The first batch of the Jabonga project had two sets of participants who started in April and October 2014. Set A had 73 while Set B had 15 participating children. After 30 days of implementation, 33 of the 73 children achieved the normal weight status for Set A and eight of 15 children achieved normal weight status for Set B. Then after the 120-day period ended, 69 out of 73 was declared with normal weight for Set A and all 15 declared with normal weight for Set B.

This complementary food feeding program of the DOST-FNRI is now being replicated in other towns and municipalities in the province as well as in the nearby province of Surigao del Norte, and other regions in the country with significant malnutrition problem.

The unique and effective health food products of DOST-FNRI will also be featured in the upcoming National Science and Technology Week 2015 from July 24-28, 2015 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. All kids and adults, science aficionados, techies, and fun loving people from all walks of life are invited to see the DOST exhibits of various technologies and innovations for FREE. For more details please log on to nstw.dost.gov.ph or can also visit the DOST website, www.science.ph.  (S&T Media Service/PIA-Caraga)

Caraga farmer associations receive P2.93M worth of farm machineries

By Rhea C. Abao

BUTUAN CITY, June 1 (PIA) - “To lower the cost of production and to increase farmers income are priority concerns of the Department of Agriculture (DA) through the Agri-Pinoy Rice Program”, said DA-13 Regional Director Edna M. Mabeza, as she personally  turned-over the agricultural farm equipment worth of P2.93 million.

The turn-over ceremony was spearheaded by the Regional Agriculture Engineering Division (RAED) and witnessed by Chief of the Integrated Laboratories Division John E. Gamboa, Sr.  and Chief of  Field Operations Division. Rebecca R. Atega .

DA continues to uplift the lives of Caraga farmers through the support of farm mechanization. There were 20 farmer- associations and irrigator associations who received a full grant of pump and engine set. Ten units were given to the associations from Agusan del Sur, five units for Butuan City, one unit for Agusan del Norte, three units for Surigao del Sur and one unit for the Province of Dinagat Islands.

Five farmer associations and irrigator associatons  from the five provinces also received rice threshers. This is under to the 85:15 counter parting scheme wherein 85 percent will be shouldered by the department and the remaining 15 percent will be the counterpart of the recepient. The distribution of the farm machineries was based on the proposals submitted by the associations.

“Claver, Gigaquit, Bacuag (CLAGIBA) Irrigators Association received four units of rice threshers. A total of 1,011 members will benefit the said equipment. Aside from the machineries and equipment we received DA also partnered it with technical assistance as they deliver the services and programs of the government. With this, we are very grateful from the full-packed assistance we have received,” said Pablo Escaro, president of CLAGIBA Irrigators Association.

Under its Farm Mechanization Program, DA is continously extending pre and post harvest equipment and facilities to qualified farmer associations, irrigator associations, cooperatives, local government units and accredited farm service providers. (DA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

DepEd-SurSur expects 130,000 students for 2015 classes opening

By Greg Tataro Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, June 1 (PIA) – Three schools divisions of the Department of Education (DepEd) in Surigao del Sur are ready to greet over 130,000 elementary pupils and high school students province-wide for the opening of classes today.

Everything has already been set, according to the respective schools division officers concerned.

Assistant schools division superintendent Lorenzo Macasocol of DepEd-Surigao del Sur division said that they have started the Oplan Balik Eskwela in which public assistance stations were put up that would remain operational until June 6, 2015 following the successful conduct of the Brigada Eskwela.

Macasocol added that as the biggest division, some 100,000 elementary pupils and high school students are expected to come to school during the opening day while division planning officer III Bevelyn Garrido cited they have a project enrollment of 82,504 and 29,536 for elementary and secondary schools, respectively.

However, early registration data shows a significant number of students have yet to enroll as there are only 74,063 for elementary and 29,085 enrollees for secondary posted.

On the part of the Tandag City division, schools division superintendent (SDS) Gregoria Su also said that they have a projected enrollment of 10,206 and 4,511 for the 26 elementary and five secondary schools, respectively.

Bislig City division headed by SDS Josita Carmen said that public schools under her are also ready for the incoming school year.

The Bislig City division down south of the province has a much bigger student population compared to Tandag City.

Meanwhile, Macasocol and Su told media that classrooms are no longer a problem in their area due to construction of additional school buildings.

However, Macasocol said in particular that some newly constructed classrooms are yet to be turned-over due to back jobs upon learning some minor defects after inspection.

“No collection policy” is strictly enforced here, DepEd officials further emphasized. (NGBT/Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Sunday, May 31, 2015

PPMC monitors Level II Water System Project

By Aimee B. Sienes

BUTUAN CITY, May 31 (PIA) - The Provincial Project Monitoring Committee (PPMC) of Agusan del Norte, headed by Atty. Ramie Felmon Duropan, conducted an onsite project monitoring of the Barangay Hydraulic Water Ram Pump Water System Project at Barangay Lawan-lawan, municipality of Las Nieves, this province on May 26, 2015.

This project calls for the construction/installation of Ram Pump water system classified as a Level II Facility. Hydraulic Ram Pumps are motorless or fuelless water pumping devices that are powered by falling water. The pump works by using the energy of substantial amount of water falling to a small height to lift a small amount of water to a much greater height.

In this way, water from a spring in a valley can be pumped to a village or irrigation scheme on the hillside. The source of water comes from the spring near Ojot River. The water is conveyed by using pipelines. The sizes of the pipelines depend on the capacity of the water. The water system is accessible through public faucets or tapstands. This project is implemented in Barangay Lawan-lawan in Las Nieves and Barangay Simbalan in Buenavista, covering Sitios Lekda, Banagbanag and Antonio.

The Level II Water System Project was made possible through the efforts of Gov. Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba, Barangay Captain More H. Migduyan of Barangay Lawan-lawan and Eddie “Datu Bawang” S. Ampiyawan, president of Higaonon Water System Association. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Saturday, May 30, 2015

AgNor celebrates Flag Day

By Aimee B. Sienes

BUTUAN CITY, May 30 (PIA) - The provincial government of Agusan del Norte held a program on Thursday, May 28, 2015 at the Provincial Capitol grounds in commemoration of the Philippine Flag dubbed as the “Flag Days” from May 28-June 12, 2015.

The program started with a short tableau presenting the history of the Philippine flag rendered by the Nasipit National Vocational School, Nasipit, this province.

It can be recalled that on May 28, 1898 the Philippine flag was first raised in Imus, Cavite by General Emilio Aguinaldo, the first President of the Philippines under the so-called revolutionary government. The raising of the flag was a symbol of our victory over Spain.

As pledge of allegiance to the flag, the provincial officials and employees recited the 'Panunumpa sa Watawat.'

Through Republic Act 8491 or the “Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines," it is mandated to celebrate annually the Philippine flag on Flag Days including the singing of the Philippine National Anthem, the correct raising of the flag on the pole and the correct way of displaying the flag in public places in respect to the Philippine flag. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Cebuano News: MOA alang sa Provincial Veterinary Quarantine station gitakdang pirmahan na

Ni Mary Cheryl S. Monoy

BUTUAN CITY, May 30 (PIA) - Gitakdang mapirmahan gilayon ni Gobernador Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante – Matba ang Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) tali sa mga manununod sa kabilin (heirs) ni Dr. Hortensio Rojales sa Carmen mahitungod sa pagrenta og luna alang sa himuo’ng Provincial Veterinary Quarantine Station aron maprotektahan ang publiko, livestock ug poultry industries sa probinsya batok sa mga sakit nga dala sa mga langyaw’ng mananap.

Matod pa sa nasangpit nga MOA, pagarentahan sa probinsya ang luna nga 290 sq.m. nga gipanagiyahan sa mga Rojales sa kantidad nga P2,500.00 kada bulan hangtud sa 10 ka tuig ug pwede kini mabag-o (renew) sigon sa kasabutan sa matag partido.

Ang maong kasabutan gi-aprubahan pinaagi sa Sanggunian Resolution No. 119 – 2015 nga gipangamahan ni PBM Antidio B. Amora isip tsirman sa Committee of Agriculture ug sigon usab kini sa probisyon nga anaa sa Section 465 sa Local Government Code of 1991. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Note)

Friday, May 29, 2015

2015 NATCAC launched in Caraga

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, May 29 (PIA) – Caraganons as well as people from the neighboring provinces of the region can now avail free assessment and certification thru the 2015 National TVET Competency and Accreditation Certification (NATCAC) program which was launched recently at the Activity Center of Robinsons Place-Butuan.

Dr. Florencio F. Sunico Jr., TESDA Caraga regional director underscored the benefits that people can get from the program. He said since this is offered free of charge, interested individuals need not to worry about the assessment fee. “All they have to do is to see to it that they will successfully pass the assessment,” Sunico said.

The program, which aimed to promote assessment and certification program at the company/enterprise level, is offered for free at the regional and provincial levels funded by the Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP).

It also expands clients’ access to assessment and certification program as well as to enhance the competitiveness, employability and productivity of workers, and upgrade the qualification of existing works, trainers and assessors to a higher level of qualification.

Workers, industry practitioners, professional, career shifters who want to undergo competency assessment, trainers of private and public Technical Vocational Institutions (TVIs), DepEd Grades 9 and 10 Technology and Livelihood Education (TLE) teachers, Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) drivers, returning Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs)/Filipino Expatriates with relevant experience who want to undergo competency assessment and industry practitioners who are prospective competency assessors.

Interested applicants must submit a duly accomplished form, self-assessment guide, three 2 x 2 passport size pictures in white background with name written at the back. Said requirements must be submitted to the identified accredited assessment centers or the nearest TESDA Provincial Offices.

The schedule and venue for the national assessment per qualification will be determined by the regional and provincial offices. For the first batch will be held this month; second batch is on August, and the last batch is on November.

For the detailed schedule, please call TESDA Provincial Offices in Caraga Region. TESDA-Agusan del Norte can be contacted thru (085) 342-0085; TESDA-Agusan del Sur (085) 343-7278; TESDA-Surigao del Norte (086) 826-2591; TESDA-Surigao del Sur (086) 211-3957; and TESDA-Dinagat Islands at 0919350-6106. (TESDA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

PopCom capacitates OSY to resolve own concerns

BUTUAN CITY, May 29 (PIA) - The Commission on Population (PopCom) - Caraga in partnership with Mindanao Health conducted a three-day Adolescent Youth Peer Facilitators’ Training held recently, at this city.

Out-of-school-youth (OSY) coming from cities of Butuan and Cabadbaran were trained on how to properly and effectively facilitate their peers, and OSY in the city participated in an interactive discussion on youth issues and concerns through a forum known as 'Usapang Barkadahan,' which was facilitated by the trained youth themselves.

Said training capacitated the young peer facilitators; developed their skills and capabilities in managing and influencing peers to adopt positive behaviour on responsible practice of sexuality and sexual health. Through this training, the adolescents were also empowered and enhanced their critical thinking and actualized their full potential.  

PopCom Caraga regional director Alexander A. Makinano said that the Filipino youth of today are confronted with numerous threats and complex problems, which serve as barriers in their journey towards responsible adulthood and productive individuals. “This activity is very significant because it helped strengthen their practical life skills such as effective decision-making, making responsible choices, and life goal planning,” added Makinano.

The PopCom official also disclosed that there will be a 'Usapang Barkadahan' roll-out at selected barangays in the city to capacitate other youth to surface and resolve issues and concerns affecting them. (PopCom-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

NIA reveals status of irrigation development in SurSur

By Greg Tataro Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, May 29 (PIA) – The Provincial Irrigation Management Office (PIMO) of the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) in Surigao del Sur has revealed the status of irrigation development province-wide as of May 15, 2015.

Engr. Salome Layasan, PIMO division manager, indicated that figures have remained on the rise in the status report for CY-2012, QRF, CY-2013, and CY-2014 irrigation projects costing up to a total of P1,227,037,362,52.

These are broken down as follows: For CY-2014—P184,854,000;  CY-2013—P337,640,000,  and;  CY-2012—P704,543,362.52.  Correspondingly, physical and financial accomplishments have been posted at 66.39 percent and 53.13 percent; 91.25 percent and 65.16 percent, and; 77.43 percent and 67.44 percent, respectively.

Also, Quick Response Fund (QRF) due to Typhoon Pablo damages, which carries a total cost of P53,651,000.00, physical and financial accomplishments have been reported at 100 percent and 78.62 percent, respectively.

Other CY-2012 irrigation projects such as Project Needing Clearance and Variance Projects, physical and financial accomplishments were placed at 100 percent and 97.93 percent as well as 48.53 percent and 38.45 percent, respectively.

The costs of Project Needing Clearance and Variance Projects amounted to P23,038,000 and P41,911,132.81, respectively, or a total of P64,949,132.81.

PIMO is servicing some 15,957 out of 26,778 hectares of the potential irrigable area over Surigao del Sur or equivalent to 59.589 percent, Layasan stated in her latest report. (NGBT/Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Thursday, May 28, 2015

DOST chief encourages Caraganons to embrace S&T culture

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, May 28 (PIA) – With the goal of the Department of Science and Technology’s (DOST) to hit the road for nation’s progress, DOST Secretary Mario Montejo encouraged the people of Caraga region to set inclination towards science and technology (S&T) and take a leap in introducing novel transformation and discoveries during his visit here on Wednesday for a 3-day roadshow dubbed as "Science Nation: Agham Ramdam."

“The greatest challenge of science and technology is to come up with innovative initiatives to increase productivity of the country. That is why our tour is focused on three key words: engage, inspire and convert. Doing these things, we would be able to come up with effective strategies to increase productivity," articulated Sec. Montejo in a press conference facilitated by Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga.

He cited that in terms of technological development, Caraga region is really doing well to be at par with other international innovations. “With its rich biodiversity, unlimited resources can be utilized for a more useful product of research and discovery. It is then our responsibility to protect and harness our natural resources," Sec. Montejo said.

When queried about how far the department has gone into disaster preparedness, he revealed that they are developing a strategy to simplify the daily weather bulletin. “We are very optimistic that by 2016, all the municipalities will have its scholars to learn how to localize the weather forecasts," Sec. Montejo said.

Meanwhile, Asst. Secretary for Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction Raymund Liboro presented the Reference for Emergency and Disaster (RED) book published and exclusively distributed by DOST-Science and Technology Information Institute (STII). As a product of ‘Iba na ang Panahon: Science for Safer Communities’ campaign, the book serves as a comprehensive reference for Disaster Preparedness and Guide for Disaster Mitigation.

"The book also contains the media’s role in disaster information, warning and communication protocols, among others. It serves as a helpful guide for our media practitioners on what questions to ask and what information to disseminate at times when weather disturbances arise in specific area," Asec. Liboro said.

In addition, Sec. Montejo said that DOST is continuously doing innovations for inclusive growth. "We believe that science and technology department has created an impact considering that based on records S&T have helped improved the poverty index of the poorest of the poor in three years," the secretary emphasized.

This was strongly supported by the statement of Caraga Regional Development Council chair and Surigao del Norte Gov. Sol Matugas, who also sat as member of the press conference panelist, recounting with pride and high regards the many contributions of her fellow public servants for having effectively delivered their thrusts and have improved the eco-tourism projects, infrastructure, as well as the mining industry which addressed the employment concern of the region.

“So in general, by making eco-tourism as a major industry of the region. It calls for more people to come in Caraga and as a result it has helped boost its income. It is our way also of addressing unemployment by providing more jobs, making people busy doing business while self-employment is also very visible. The region is indeed fast developing," expressed Gov. Matugas.

Aside from the press conference, the participants also witnessed the presentation of Early Warning Devices and Site Installations; Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) Signing with Governors and City Mayors; Presentation and launching of Eastern Mindanao Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research Alliance for Development (EMIEERALD); and Presentation and Commitment Signing of Caraga Food Safety Team.

Following the whole day events was the recognition of the science ambassadors and Philippine Science High School-Caraga Region Campus scholars during an evening fellowship with dances and serenade.

The Science Nation Tour aims to create meaningful outcomes by catering to people everything that science and technology can offer. Sec. Montejo is set for project visits in the provinces of Agusan del Norte and Surigao del Norte that will run from May 27-29, 2015. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

DOST’s STARBOOKS reaches Caraga

BUTUAN CITY, May 28 (PIA) - The latest innovation in learning tools developed and introduced by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) through its information arm, the Science and Technology Information Institute (STII), has now reached the shores of the Caraga Region.

STARBOOKS, short for Science and Technology Academic and Research-Based Openly Operated Kiosk Station if often referred to as the “library in a box” because it is actually a stand-alone kiosk that can be placed in one corner of the school and students can easily access a wealth of information about science and technology particularly research works of our Filipino scientist and engineers.

STARBOOKS is DOST’s response to a call to make science and technology available to more students in the regions as it aims to make academic stars out of our students in the provinces. This unique e-learning tool combines traditional and digital modes of education that allows research activities to be done with just a click of the mouse.

“We at DOST want to encourage our students to take up courses in science and technology because we believe that to achieve inclusive growth we need to strengthen and beef up the pool of scientists, engineers, programmers that we have today,” said DOST Secretary Mario G. Montejo.

“That is why we developed STARBOOKS to make S&T information more accessible to students in the regions,” he added.

STARBOOKS was launched at Robinson's Place Butuan on Wednesday, May 27 in conjunction with DOST’s nationwide campaign called Science Nation Tour from May 27 to 29 in the city. It is an initiative of the department aimed at bringing down to the provinces notable inventions and innovations of DOST in education, agriculture, manufacturing, information technology, nanotechnology, healthcare, e-governance and disaster preparedness and mitigation.

During the event, a memorandum of understanding was executed by the DOST led by Secretary Montejo and other DOST officials namely, Assistant Secretary Raymund E. Liboro and DOST Caraga regional director Dominga D. Mallonga.

Other events to be featured in the Science Nation Tour in Caraga include the inauguration of the complementary food project of the Gigaquit Women’s Center in Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte; ground breaking ceremony and field testing of the Integrated Au-Cu Mineral Processing Pilot Plant in Barangay Del Pilar in Agusan del Norte; the Science and Technology Forum presenting LiDAR Flood Modeling, e-Health TABLET, Early Warning Devices, Caraga Food Safety Team, and launch of Eastern Mindanao Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technologies Research Alliance for Development (EMIEERALD). (FEA/S&T Media Service/PIA-Caraga)

Coordination meeting set for Tandag City Nutrition Committee members

By Greg Tataro Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, May 28 (PIA) – Mayor Roxanne Pimentel has called on members of the City Nutrition Committee (CNC) for a coordination meeting at 8:00 a.m. on May 29, 2015 at Season’s Park Apartelle here.

In her invitation letter dated May 19, 2015, through City Administrator Alexander Pimentel, the city chief executive and CNC chair cited, among others, several agenda for discussion, to wit: Review the Plan and Accomplishment for Nutrition Program Implementation in CY 2014-2015; Arrival of Regional Evaluation Team (RET) for Nutrition Program on June 8, 2015 to conduct Monitoring and Evaluation of Local Level Program Implementation (MELLPI) and Barangay Nutrition Scholars Project, and; Plan for this year’s 41st Nutrition Month Celebration with the theme: “Timbang Iwasto sa Tamang Nutrisyon at Ehersisyo!”

In closing, Mayor Pimentel shared the importance of working together with “zeal and commitment,” saying that such is “a key factor to building a productive and vibrant economy now and for generations to come within our locality.” (NGBT/Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

LGU-SurSur aims for success in environmental sanitation via solid waste management program

By Greg Tataro Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, May 28 (PIA) – In order to keep up with proper environmental sanitation, the Environment and Natural Resources Office (ENRO) in Surigao del Sur has continued to monitor implementation of solid waste management (SWM) program province-wide.

Edgar Valentin, ENRO chief here, said recently that the SWM plans of all local government units (LGUs) indicating their respective status have been submitted to the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB).

He also mentioned several LGUs here whose plans were endorsed to National Solid Waste Management Commission (NSWMC) for thorough examination and approval.

Meanwhile, Valentin took pride in citing Hinatuan and Carrascal towns as awardees “for having best practices in ecological solid waste management.”

Likewise, the ENRO chief was glad to note that NSWMC has provided funding assistance of P250,000 to Carrascal town “for the establishment of materials recovery facilities (MRFs).”

A year ago, the ENRO facilitated the holding of Provincial Solid Waste Management Board (PSWMB) meeting attended by mayors and other concerned officials at the conference room of the Provincial Governor’s Office (PGO) presided over by Governor Johnny Pimentel as chair.

Roles and functions of the board as stipulated in Republic Act 9003 were discussed, Valentin bared.

During that meeting, a representative from EMB gave updates on the compliance rate of LGUs in the province, it was learned. (NGBT/Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Cebuano News: HEALS Plus victory forum gipahigayon sa Bacuag

Ni Mary Jul E. Escalante

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Mayo 28 (PIA) – Gipahigayon bag-ohay pa lamang ang HEALS (Health, Education and Environment, Agri and Aquaculture, Livelihood and Tourism, and Spiritual renewal) Plus Victory Forum nga gitawag usab nga “Kapitolyo sa Barangay” didto sa lungsod sa Bacuag, ning lalawigan.

Tumong ug tuyo sa maong aktibidadis mao ang pagdala sa serbisyo sa kapitolyo ngadto na sa mga kabarangayan (bringing the government closer to the people).

Sa buntag sa maong adlaw gipahigayon ang panambay sa barangay diin moabot sa 200 ka mga pasyente ang nakatagamtam sa libreng konsulta sa panglawas, 22 ka pasyente sa tuli, 100 sa dental services ug 15 ang nakapahimulos papsmear.

Pagkahapon gipahigayon ang diyalogo ni Governor Sol Matugas uban sa mga opisyales sa barangay sa siyam ka mga barangay sa maong lungsod sa pagpangulo ni Mayor Sheila Mae Cebedo uban usab sa mga school administrators.

Atol sa maong diyalogo gipresentar sa TEAM Capitol ang mga serbisyo nga nabubo sa probinsya ngadto sa maong lungsod ubos sa HEALS plus agenda sa gobernador labi na sa natad sa maayong panglawas, edukasyon, agrikultura, livelihood, social services ug sa mga proyekto sa imprastruktura.

Nagpasalamat ang mga kapitanes sa maong lungsod ngadto sa gobernador diin kinsa gihatagan sila ug panahon nga mabati ang ilang mga yangungo ug mahatagan og solusyon ang ilang mga mulo. (SDR/PIC-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Wednesday, May 27, 2015

Science Nation Tour connects, interact with people, says DOST Caraga chief

By Nora L. Molde

BUTUAN CITY, May 27 (PIA) – “Science Nation Tour connects and interacts with various stakeholders in the academe, the government, the media and industry,” says Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Caraga regional director Dominga Mallonga during the Science and Technology Forum held Wednesday here.

Director Mallonga also acknowledged all participating agencies, students, partners, heads of agencies and state universities and the contribution of the members of the Regional Development Council (RDC) during Wednesday’s kick off ceremony.

“The Science and Technology (S & T) Forum is part of the larger activity of DOST which is the Science Nation Tour dubbed as Agham na Ramdam - Science which is felt by a larger mass of people in Caraga region,” said director Mallonga.

Director Mallonga said that the tour is not just a mere caravan of DOST services but a roadshow where we inform, disseminate, communicate and share with the public about research initiatives.

New technologies, programs and projects with Science, Technology and Innovation content will be shared so that more students, the youth, the micro and medium enterprises, local government units, civil society organizations, communities and the general public will come to appreciate and be inspired by what they hear, see and experience, bared director Mallonga.

“Through the Science Nation Tour we connect and interact with the people and will also create substantive partnerships that could provide opportunities towards joint undertakings and scientific and technological collaborations that can harness the power of science for the benefit of our regions and the country as a whole," said Mallonga.

She added that the Science Nation Tour is a process of providing an avenue for inspiration, technology demonstration for engagement and results for conversion.

The roadshow provides Information, Education and Communication (IEC) which inspire, engage and convert people to adopt Science, Technology and Innovation as a way of life.

The S & T respond to the needs of society and both are game changers. Significant reductions in poverty and improvements in the quality of life are made possible through advances in scientific and technological knowledge and applications, Mallonga said.

During the S & T Forum, research and development initiatives of state universities/colleges and various teams are being discussed.

Also, director Mallonga acknowledged the very important role of the media in helping DOST bring the good news to the people. (NCLM/PIA Caraga)

Caraga stakeholders participate in DOST’s S&T roadshow, forum

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, May 27 (PIA) – Heads/regional directors of government agencies, representatives from public and private sector, students and media actively participated during the kick-off program of the roadshow dubbed as “Science Nation: Agham na Ramdam” by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Caraga held on Wednesday at Samping Avenue, this city.

At around 6:35 a.m. on the same day, DOST Secretary Mario Montejo, the event's guest speaker, together with undersecretary for regional operations Carol Yorope, Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction assistant secretary Raymond Liboro, and representatives from Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI) and Ateneo de Manila University arrived at the Bancasi National Airport. The group was welcomed and received by DOST-Caraga regional director Dominga Mallonga.

During the program proper, Surigao del Norte Governor and Regional Development Council (RDC) chairperson Sol Matugas delivered her welcome remarks to all the participating agencies and partners.

“We are very optimistic that your presence in this science forum will strengthen our ties as partners and will enhance our learnings, programs and services in the field of science and technology. Thank you very much for your participation and we look forward to our future endeavors,” expressed Matugas.

Matugas recognized the valuable efforts of DOST thru regional director Dominga Mallonga. "I congratulate regional director Dominga Mallonga for being so active in the promotion of science and technology in the region," she expressed.

Also, on behalf of Butuan City mayor Ferdinand Amante Jr, Engr. Pierre Anthony Joven read his message. He stressed that technology has made various developments for the city.  

"Today is the best time to express our gratitude to everything good that is happening to us in our city through the DOST. As this forum includes the researches outcomes and other topics, the people of Butuan will be more aware of the effort of the government in its innovations for the benefit of the city and the region in general... We are also glad that the Philippine Science High School is accommodated at the Caraga State University Campus. I am confident that students will do their best just to be enrolled at Pisay to learn and develop their skills in science and technology... May this activity today lead us to another significant innovations and developments," he relayed.

Director Mallonga also acknowledged all the participating agencies, heads of government offices, students and partners and their contribution to the different projects of the government in the field of science and technology.

"Today's activity is not just a forum but a roadshow to really create meaningful outcomes/results by catering to people everything that we have in science and technology," she said. Dir. Mallonga also recognized the vital role of the media in bringing the good news to the community.

Meanwhile, Sec. Montejo encouraged more Filipinos to become technology self-reliant, being able to identify what type of technology to use in a project, suitable to social and economic conditions of the geographic area in which it is to be applied. It should be appropriate and environmentally sound.

"We, in the Science and Technology department is continuously doing innovations for inclusive growth. We build-up our 'know-how' and capabilities to come up with innovative solutions to directly address the concerns, problems of the people in the community," bared Montejo.

Montejo further reiterated that the government is strongly supporting Climate Change Adaptation efforts. “We seek to improve the level of our preparedness for us to be more prepared in the future... As we prepare ourselves for the future, technology will also help us. Through it, our planning, decision making will be more definite because we have basis," he disclosed.

Aside from the press conference, the participants also witnessed the presentation of Early Warning Devices and Site Installations; Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) Signing with Governors and City Mayors; Presentation and launching of Eastern Mindanao Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research Alliance for Development (EMIEERALD); and Presentation and Commitment Signing of Caraga Food Safety Team.

Sec. Montejo also led the presentation, launching and MOA Signing of Science and Technology Academic and Research-Based Openly Operated Kiosk Station, also known as Starbooks at Robinsons Place’ Atrium. The secretary with other officials also visited the Tindahang Pinoy at the Robinsons Mall; Caraga State University (CSU); and CSU-Phil LIDAR and Responsible Mining Laboratory.

The DOST and RDC Caraga have prepared various lined-up activities for the second and third day of the roadshow. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

DOST opens 3rd leg of ‘Science Nation Tour’ in Caraga Region

BUTUAN CITY, May 27 (PIA) - With the aim to make science “felt” by the average Filipino, the Department of Science and Technology’s (DOST's) nationwide roadshow dubbed “Science Nation: Agham na Ramdam” made its next stop in Caraga Region, which started on Wednesday, May 27 and will run until Friday, May 29, 2015.

DOST Caraga hosted the third regional leg of the Science Nation Tour to promote the agency’s programs, projects and services.

DOST Sec. Mario Montejo arrived in the city Wednesday morning as keynote speaker of the Science and Technology (S&T) Forum attended by some 300 participants from the partner stakeholders of the region, members of the Caraga Regional Development Council, local officials, representatives from other line agencies, students and local media.

"Today is the best time to express our gratitude to everything good that is happening to us in our city through the DOST. As this forum includes the researches’ outcomes and other topics, the people of Butuan will be more aware of the effort of the government in its innovations for the benefit of the city and the region in general,” relayed Engr. Pierre Anthony Joven as he read the message of Butuan City mayor Ferdinand Amante Jr. during the opening of the S&T Forum.

DOST Sec. Mario Montejo, in his keynote speech, said that the Science and Technology department is continuously doing innovations for inclusive growth. “We build-up our 'know-how' and capabilities to come up with innovative solutions to directly address the concerns, problems of the people in the community," he said.

"As we prepare ourselves for the future, technology will also help us. Through it, our planning, decision making will be more definite because we have basis," Montejo added.

Other highlights during the S&T Forum were the presentation of Early Warning Devices and Site Installations; Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) Signing with Governors and City Mayors; Presentation and launching of Eastern Mindanao Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research Alliance for Development (EMIEERALD); Presentation and Commitment Signing of Caraga Food Safety Team, and press conference.

Right after the forum, Sec. Montejo led the launching and signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) of STARBOOKS or the S&T Academic and Research-Based Openly-Operated Kiosk Stations at the atrium of Robinson’s Place Butuan. This new academic resource for students and researchers is equipped with key access portals in strategic areas in the Philippines.

Users can have access to the latest data and information contained at DOST (SciNeT), Philippine eLib project sources, freely-available online resources, and subscribed databases.

Montejo likewise visited ‘Ang Tindahang Pinoy’ store located at the second level of Robinson’s Place. The store showcases local products under the One Town, One Product (OTOP) project.

He also visited the Phil-LiDAR 1 and 2 projects located at the Caraga State University campus in Brgy. Ampayon, this city. Phil-LiDAR 1 also called “Flood Hazard Mapping of the Philippines Using liDAR: Caraga Region” is one of several projects under the “Phil-LiDAR-1 Hazard Mapping of the Philippines using LiDAR” program funded by the Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development – Department of Science and Technology (PCIEERD-DOST).

Phil-LiDAR 1′s purpose is for the state universities and colleges to undertake researches on the utilization of LiDAR technology to generate flood hazard maps of their assigned project areas. CSU's Phil-LiDAR 1 in particular will generate flood hazard maps of the river basins and watershed of Caraga Region. While, Phil-LiDAR 2 aims to produce detailed maps using LiDAR for various applications: production of high value crops; irrigation assessment; aquaculture production; forest protection; and discovery of renewable energy sources.

After his brief visit at CSU's Phil-LIDAR, Montejo was then toured at CSU’s responsible mining laboratory.

During the evening, DOST Caraga spearheaded a night of music and dance with DOST Scholars (Phil. Science High School Students, Parents and Science Education Institute scholars) and awarding of science ambassadors.

On the second day of the tour, the launching of the Smarter Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) in Jabonga in the province of Agusan del Norte will be conducted followed by the inauguration and blessing of the Complementary Food Manufacturing Plant in Gigaguit, Surigao del Norte.

A stakeholders' night will also be held on Thursday and the Launching of the Better Mines Project of the Field Testing of the Gold and Copper Processing Plant without the use of cyanide and mercury in Del Pilar, Cabadbaran City and a visit at the new Philippine Science High School site in Brgy. Ampayon, this city on Friday, May 29. (FEA/JPG/NCLM/VLG/PIA-Caraga)

DTI Surigao Norte, GIZ conduct technology business matching cum financial forum

By Rodrigo R. Matabaran

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, May 27 (PIA) – A total of 45 participants mostly from the tourism related enterprise (TREs) attended the Green Technology Business Matching cum Financing Forum held on May 20, 2015 at the Parkway Hotel this city.

The activity was conducted by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in partnership with GIZ (Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit), a German international cooperation agency.

The activity aims to encourage the TREs to adopt climate smart and environment-friendly measures and practices in their operation as well as facilitate their access to possible sources of green technology services and financing mechanism. With the presence of technology providers and financial institution representatives, the activity allowed the TREs to access the green technology service providers and suppliers.

Among the resource persons are Engr. Elmer Tecson of Surigao City Environment and Natural Resources Office who spoke on Solid Waste Management and Engr. Jerry Halibas of Carage State University and Jerome Mill of Solaric Philippines discussed about Renewable Energy

Another set of technical resource persons that also discussed Solid and Waste Water management are Dr. Elesio Ruiz and Beverly Santos of Richfund International, Co. The green financing concerns were tackled by Jesily A. Rejuso of the Development Back of the Philippines, Joel L. Butaya of the Land Bank of the Philippines and Maricel Emboy-Cosme of Butuan Prime Loans.

The presentations were followed by open forum and business matching where participants explored on various possible green business opportunities.

DTI provincial director Celestino L. Negapatan, im his welcome address, encouraged the participants to find ways to enhance their business operation by adapting measures to be environment friendly and climate change resilient. (SDR/DTI-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

PopCom to award cities, towns of UNFPA

BUTUAN CITY, May 27 (PIA) - Three cities and municipalities shall be named in the Top 3 ranking, at the regional level – and these local government units (LGUs) will be nominated to the national level for their outstanding accomplishment in the field of health and population.

The Rafael M. Salas Population and Development Award (RMSPDA) is designed to perpetuate the legacy of Rafael M. Salas, the first Filipino Executive Director, by honouring LGUs, local chief executives and institutions or individuals for their outstanding contributions in the field of health and population. It aims to showcase outstanding health and population oriented cities and municipalities; recognize excellence and innovation in health and population programs of cities and municipalities; and encourage cities and municipalities to heighten implementation of population development responsive programs.

Commission on Population (PopCom) Caraga regional director Alexander A. Makinano revealed that this year, the award will be conferred on city and municipality that have been involved in the field of population and development. He further emphasized that the criteria of this prestigious award are Governance on Health and Health Financing; Access to Programs, Services and Facilities; Performance Monitoring; and Population and Development Elements.

PopCom together with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Education (DepEd), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and PhilHealth will also have to validate the LGUs’ scorecards maintained by DILG. The awarding ceremonies are scheduled to be held in August of this year.

To recall, PopCom officially launched the 2014 Rafael M. Salas Population and Development Award (RMSPDA) on February 18, 2015. PopCom, as the leading strategic partner, policy and program advocates for the Philippine Population Management Program, established the RMSPDA in 1989. (PopCom-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

SurSur PNP set for 'Balik-Eskwela'

By Greg Tataro Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, May 27 (PIA) – The Philippine National Police (PNP) in Surigao del Sur is all set for the 2015 opening of classes, according to P/SSupt. Narciso Verdadero, acting provincial director.

“A memorandum dated May 23, 2015 has already been sent out to all lower units for specific instructions and guidance,” he said.

Verdadero pointed out the police force is tasked not only to maintain peace and order but also to keep the whole citizenry safe and sound, particularly all school children year in and year out.

His instructions, among others, include maintaining a close working relationship with the Department of Education (DepEd) and other national and local government agencies concerned, deploying of personnel to carry out patrol, and keeping “communication lines” open for any complaint or report.

Last week, the provincial chief said law enforcers have actively joined and participated in the conduct of “Brigada Eskwela” province-wide. (NGBT/Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

News Feature: Butuan employers highlight convenience of using EPRS

BUTUAN CITY, May 27 (PIA) - One of the greatest innovations of the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) is the development of the Electronic Premium Reporting System (EPRS), a revolutionary database system that changed the reporting system of
 the employed sector to a more reliable, customer-friendly system that brings ease to employers as well as to their PhilHealth Employers Engagement Representatives (PEERs).

“In comparison with other agencies that required 
us to submit monthly reporting of premiums, PhilHealth has the most convenient, fastest and easiest remittance system,” shares PEER Jearamie T. Buque, a Compensation and Benefits Specialist of EQUI-PARCO Construction Company based in Ambago, this city. The company is one of the most valued clients of PhilHealth Regional Office Caraga.

“Considering that we have 897 employees, posting of payments through EPRS has never been a problem. EPRS made updating easy especially those employees who are already separated or have no earnings. With just a few clicks, total remittance is already adjusted and payment is much easier!” she said with a smile.

“What I like the most 
is the convenience and its 24/7 availability. No matter where I am, as long as there is an internet connection, 
I can access the system. Very advantageous to our office since we are very busy and sometimes there is a need to do reports outside our office. We can do our report without having to download the system to all our computers so we can access the system anywhere,” she added.

Ryan Jae G. Yap, Operations Manager of Manila Auto Care based in this city, states that “I have no problem with the connections. It is fast and reliable. EPRS is convenient in updating (the list of) employees such as adding new employees, or taking away employees’ names from the system. There is no need to go to the office and installation of the system is one-time. In fact, upon realizing the convenience of the EPRS, we immediately registered our other businesses as well.”

"So far, so good! It is fast and automatic. It is hassle-free; EPRS has a 'no earnings' feature, which is quite convenient for us. I am contented with the program and have not encountered any problem yet,” said Alicia B. Pen, Payroll/Payable Staff of Saint Joseph Institute of Technology. (PhilHealth-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

SPES benefits 400 in BIslig City

BISLIG CITY, Surigao del Sur, May 27 (PIA) – The city government here in partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has accommodated at least 400 students for the implementation of the Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES) this summer of 2015.

This year’s batch of SPES beneficiaries have completed their month-long stints with private and government entities.

According to Bislig City Information Office, the culmination ceremony was held recently at the City Covered Court, Poblacion attended by city mayor Librado Navarro together with city administrator Charlito Lerog and other city officials.

It was learned that the check amounted to 60 percent of the wages from the DOLE has already been turned-over to the city government. The other 40 percent will be provided by the city government, which will be sent directly to the school where they will be enrolled in the coming school opening in order to assure that their financial obligation with regards to their education will be augmented.

The implementation of the said program hopes to lower the rate of out-of-school youth, and improved the literacy rate of the city. (NGBT/with reports from the CDIO- Bislig City Info Office/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

BUB scholars in Agusan Norte finish training

By Catalina O. Tacubao

BUTUAN CITY, May 27 (PIA) – A total of 122 scholars under the Bottoms Up Budgeting (BUB) in Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte have finished skills training.

The beneficiaries finished Shielded Metal Arc Welding NC-II and Driving NC II from Candelaria Institute of Technology (ICT) in Cabadbaran, Agusan del Norte.

Also, some trainees have finished Prepare Hot Meals leading to Cookery NCII from the Provincial Training Center (PTC) also in Cabadbaran City and were conferred graduate by OIC-Provincial Director of TESDA Agusan del Norte Emma R. de Villa.

In her speech, Dir. De Villa emphasized the relevance of the project as it provides free technical-vocational (tech-voc) education to poor but deserving students. Dir. De Villa added this is in response to the Education for All program of the Aquino Administration.

De Villa further pointed out that with the trainings the scholars have finished under the scholarship program, they will find better job opportunity both here and abroad.

The graduation ceremony was held at the municipal gym which was graced by Kitcharao Vice Mayor Jenry E. Montante and other Sangguniang Bayan Members.

According to Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) website, the Bottom-up Budgeting (BUB) aims to ensure that funding requirements for the development needs of municipalities and cities are included in agency budget proposals. It promotes inclusive participation in community development by empowering civil society organizations (CSOs) to be engaged in the budgeting process.

This policy note presents the results of a process assessment of the BUB in Quezon Province. It was part of a bigger study, commissioned by the Department of Budget and Management to the PIDS that covered 12 municipalities and cities in four provinces representing Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. (TESDA-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)