Wednesday, November 18, 2015

AFP, PNP both on red alert in SurSur

By Greg Tataro Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Nov. 18 (PIA) – Both the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Surigao del Sur have been in red alert primarily because of the APEC being held in the country.

Col. Isidro Purisima, 402nd Infantry Brigade commander, added however that the Paris bombing recently was also one of the immediate reasons that triggered them to take action.

At this time that December 26 Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) anniversary is drawing near aside from other considerable situation, such measures had to be imposed in order to thwart the “tactical offensives” of the New Peoples’ Army (NPA), he stressed.

Purisima likewise said they continue to maintain security operations as well as monitoring in spite of the prevailing relatively good peace and order condition.

On the part of the PNP, the new provincial chief, P/SSupt. Romualdo Bayting confirmed that the entire police force in the province had been enforcing parallel action with the AFP, citing heightened alert.

In fact, immediately upon his assumption on Monday, he managed to iterate the order to his subordinate, referring to the memo received coming from the higher-ups.

Bayting, who replaced former provincial director P/SSupt. Narciso Verdadero, also indicated that they would remain to do so until necessary. (NGBT/Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

All set for 54th Araw ng Bayabas celebration

By Greg Tataro Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Nov. 18 (PIA) – The tiniest town among its equals in the province of Surigao del Sur, 30 kilometers south this city, with Mayor Maria Clarita Garcia-Limbaro at the helm, is all set to showcase what it has to offer on the occasion of 54th Araw ng Bayabas on November 19-20, 2015.

The two-day affair is going to be fun-filled with the 11th Gakit Festival as the main event.  “Gakit” is the local term for raft common among fisher folk as the place, whose administration has been all-effort in trying to turn their homeland into becoming the leading aquaculture producer, is a coastal town of seven barangays with a population of only close to 8,000.

Based on the uniquely crafted, nature-inspired program of invitation, on November 19, an opening parade will signal the start of the event at 7:30 a.m. to be followed by a program at Bayabas Bay Park at 9:30 a.m.  In the afternoon, lots of “Larong Pinoy” will be played at the same site.

The activities during the first day will run until the wee hours of the evening featuring the Sadsadan Dance Contest and Hari ug Reyna nan Sadsadan.  “Sadsadan” is a form of street dancing among Bayabasnon.

For the anniversary proper, a Thanksgiving Mass at the San Ignacio de Loyola Parish will start the day right at 7:00 a.m.  Thereafter, the main attraction will be the “Costume Parade” that is going to stop by at three specific venues—Bayabas Central Elementary School (BCES) grounds, Poblacion area, and finally, for the contest judging, at the Bayabas Gym.

However, the highlight of the entire event with the theme “One Bayabas, Flourishing Bayabas,” is the State of the Town Address (SOTA) by Mayor Limbaro right after the Legislative Accomplishment Report of Vice-Mayor Apolonio Lozada at the Bayabas gym at 5:00 p.m.

It will culminate with “Tigum Bayabasnon” to be marked by Harana contest.

High ranking provincial officials and political leaders are expected to grace this momentous occasion. (NGBT/Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Cebuano News: Stakeholders meeting ug Integrated Security Planning gipahigayon sa Siargao Island

Ni Mary Jul Escalante

SIARGAO ISLAND, Surigao del Norte, Nob. 18 (PIA) – Malamposong gipahigayon ang usa ka stakeholders meeting ug integrated security planning nga kagahapon nga adlaw Nobyembre 17, 2015 didto sa Kapitolyo Nan Siargao, ning probinsya.

Tumong ug tuyo sa maong tigom mao ang pagplano mahitungod na sa pagpanalipod sa isla sa Siargao nga maoy usa sa mga tourist destinations sa nasod ug maprotektahan usab ang mga langyaw ug mga lokal nga mga bisitang turista ug pagsiguro nga luwas sa mga kakuyaw ang mga bisita nga mahidangat sa maong isla.

Atol sa maong tigom mihatag og overview sa maong kalihukan si Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Provincial Director John Reyl Mosquito.

Samtang sila Colonel Roel Acidre ang hepe sa Provincial Police Office maoy nihatag og updates sa Siargao Peace and Order Situation ug si Lieutenant Colonel Arlino Sindayduego iyang gipasabot ang  Comprehensive Security Plan.

Ubay ubay ang mga nahisgutan sa maong tigom, kalabot na ang mga concerns sa mga tag iya sa resorts, mga estratehiya aron sa pagpalig-on sa seguridad sa maong isla ug ang pagbutang og baraks sa Phil. Army sa maong isla.

Sa maong tigom nagkahiusa ang nagkadaiyang ahensya sa pagkooperar nga magmalamposon ang maong plano alang na sa pag uswag sa ekonomiya sa maong isla pinaagi sa turismo nga dili mahadlok ang mga turistang langyaw o lokal nga mobisita sa maong isla.

Pagkahapon sa susamang adlaw gipahigayon ang blessing u groundbreaking sa bag-ong Siargao Convention Center sa may Cabuntog sa lungsod sa General Luna.

Ang maong tigom gitambungan ni Gobernador Sol F. Matugas, Cong. Francisco T. Matugas, Vice Governor Arturo Carlos Egay, Jr, PNP Regional Director PCSupt. Vert Chavez, PNP Provincial Dir. PSSupt. Roel Acidre, Lt. Col. Arlino Sindayduego sa Phil. Army, Col. Henry Dar sa Task Force Diamond, Commander Geofrey Gervo sa Phil. Coast Guard, PSSupt. Allen Ocden sa Maritime Police, Siargao Island mayors, representante sa DepEd, Philippine Ports Authority, Land Transportation Office, mga resort owners sa Siargao ug uban pang mga stakeholders. (SDR/PIC-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Cebuano News: Probinsya sa Agusan del Norte gipasidunggan

BUTUAN CITY, Nob. 18 (PIA) - Ang probinsya sa Agusan del Norte pinaagi sa Provincial Agriculturist Office (PAO), nakadawat ug pasidungog isip ikaduha sa lima ka nag-unang outstanding provinces sa “3rd National Corn Quality Achiever’s Award” nga gipahigayon niadtong Oktubre 20-24, 2015 sa Angeles City, Clark Pampanga.

Tungod niini nga pasidungog nakabaton ang probinsya ug award nga proyekto sa kantidad ug 3M pesos ug plake.

Nakuha usab sa atong Provincial Agriculturist nga si Oscar Tuyor ang pasidungog isip usa sa lima ka outstanding Provincial Corn Coordinator. Mapasalamaton siya nga midawat sa 30 mil pesos ug plake isip ganti niini.

Nakab-ot sa atong probinsya kini nga pasidungog tungod niini nga mga sukaran; (1) production support services, nga naglangkob sa programa sa pagbinayloay ug binhi sa mais sa mga mag uuma, soil sampling/mapping ug ang pagsuporta sa programa sa organik longabono. (2) pre/post-harvest facility support, dinhi makita ang mga programa/suporta sa probinsya sa hisgutanang pasilidad sa umahan sama sa traktora, galingan sa mais ug uban pa (grant o counterparting). (3) extension training and research components, nanglangkob kini sa mga pagtuon o training (long/short) sa mga lideres nga mag-uuma ug sa mga Agricutural Extension Workers, ginahimo nga mga demonstrasyon sa teknolohiya sa nagkalain-laing klase sa mais ug rekomendadong abono niini, mga programa sa radio/school on the air ug ang presensya sa mga lideres sa mag-uuma ug sa mga Agricultural Extension Workers sa National Corn Congress.

Ikaduha na kining dawat sa atong probinsya niini nga pasidungog. (RBR, LGU Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Cebuano News: Convergence meeting gipahigayon sa Kapitolyo Nan Siargao

Ni Mary Jul Escalante

SIARGAO ISLAND, Surigao del Norte, Nob. 18 (PIA) – Convergence meeting gipahigayon niadtong Lunes, Nobyembre 16, 2015 didto sa Kapitolyo Nan Siargao ning probinsya.

Ang maong panagtigom gitambungan ni Gobernador Sol F. Matugas, Cong. Francisco Matugas, mga mayores sa isla, mga empleyado sa kapitolyo nan siargao, mga hepe ug representante sa nagkadaiyang ahensya sa gobyerno ug ang team capitol.

Ubay ubay ang mga nahisgutan sa maong tigom kalabot na ang mga aktibidadis mga kalambuan ug proyekto sa maong isla.

Atol sa maong okasyon, gipahigayon ang formal installation ni Mr. Ernilou Mantong nga maoy bag-ong administrador sa Kapitolyo nan Siargao.

Sa samang higayon gihimo usab ang pag tunol sa tseke kantidad P54,000 pesos alang sa proyekto nga pumpboat ug makina sa unom ka mga benepisyaryo sa lungsod sa Socorro ug usa sa barangay Dagohoy, Dapa.

Laing P400,000 ka pesos usab ang ang gitunol sa gobernador ngadto sa brgy. Libertad sa lungsod sa General Luna alang sa ilang proyekto nga covered court. (SDR/PIC-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Tuesday, November 17, 2015

SurSur gets new PNP chief

By Greg Tataro Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Nov. 17 (PIA) – The province of Surigao del Sur has a new chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

P/SSupt. Romualdo Bayting formally assumed post effective November 16, 2015 replacing former P/SSupt. Narciso Verdadero who served here for about a year and seven months.

Bayting has already paid courtesy call on Governor Johnny Pimentel at the latter’s office.

Prior to that, however, Pimentel had already told capitol employees about the relief of Verdadero during the Monday flag ceremony program.  Be that as it may, he seemed to be in disbelief that the Cortes town ambush incident was the main reason for sacking Verdadero. During that ambuscade carried out by New People’s Army (NPA) on September 18, SP04 Jesus Labastilla was killed and PO2 Joy Turaja got injured.

Meanwhile, the governor said with this turn of events, Bayting would naturally replace Verdadero as head of joint Task Force Bangkaw with the army.  The joint task force was purposely created to hunt down Loloy Tejero, Bobby Tejero, and Garito Layno—all primary suspects for the September 1 brutal killings of lumad leaders Emerito Samarca, Dionel Campos and Bello Sinzo.

Until now, the three assailants had remained at large despite the respective arrest warrants issued by Lianga Regional Trial Court (RTC) a couple of weeks after the tragic event. 

Moreover, the new provincial PNP chief was also advised by Governor Pimentel to see Col. Isidro Purisima, commander of 402nd Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army (PA), to get the latest information and updates on the continuing manhunt operation.

PSSupt. Bayting have yet to meet his army counterpart.

Also, on Monday morning, the governor had a closed door meeting with Maj. Gen. Oscar Lactao, army 4th Infantry Division (4ID) commander.

Asked what transpired during the meeting, Governor Pimentel said it had been the same, referring to the primary suspects in spite of the P200,000 bounty on each head. (NGBT/Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

DA Caraga achieves 100% conversion of lands into organic farming area

By Noel B. Najarro

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 17 (PIA) - The Department of Agriculture (DA) Caraga presented over a hundred percent accomplishment on the conversion of agricultural areas here into organic farming against the target in 2014.

Citing figures from the Bureau of Agricultural Statistics (BAS) as its source, DA Caraga data released recently said that it has targeted for the year 2013 a total of 1,206 hectares, as part of the five percent organic agriculture area conversion for the whole region: Agusan del Norte (349); Agusan del Sur (345); Surigao del Norte (343); Surigao del Sur (87) and Dinagat Island Province (52).

For 2014, DA Caraga targeted 2,168 hectares of agricultural areas into organic farming: Agusan del Norte (320); Agusan del Sur (219); Surigao del Norte (673); Surigao del Sur (989.50) and Dinagat Island Province (147). The agriculture department here however said that as the year ended, the physical area devoted to organic agriculture or the agricultural area conversion reached 2,348.50 hectares or a 108 percent accomplishment for the area of conversion versus the target.

For 2015, the regional agriculture department here had targeted 2,961 hectares for organic farming conversion; 4,930 for the year 2016 and 14,905 for 2017 or a total of 26, 170.35.

Caraga Region based on the DA’s roadmap organic agriculture area for conversion and citing the figures of the area farms by geolocation, year and landuse (2002) has an agricultural area of 523, 407 hectares, five percent of which is targeted by DA Caraga or a total of 26,170 hectares for organic agriculture by the year 2017.

The DA regional field office here also reported an increase on the number of farmers who accordingly are actively engaged into organic agriculture. Citing figures from the year 2012 which recorded 998 farmers, the department had recorded 2,908 farmers as of the year 2014 or 1,995 farmers more into organic agriculture farming or an increase of 191 percent. (PNA/PIA-Caraga)

PRO 13 strengthens force, intensifies training of personnel

By Noel B. Najarro

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 17 (PIA) - The Police Regional Office here strengthens its force and intensifies training of its personnel.

Regional Police chief spokesperson PSupt. Martin M. Gamba said that among the offshoots of the recent visit of the chief PNP here resulted to the addition of strength to the regional police force and more trainings to its personnel.

Aside from the 947 recruits allotted for the region this year, additional 1,000 recruitment for new police personnel is in the offing for the next year, Gamba said.

He also said that part of the strengthening of the regional police force is to upgrade the police public safety companies. A regional, provincial or city police public safety company at present has two platoons. A plan is also now on the offing to make the public safety companies be composed of four platoons.

Regarding the trainings of the personnel, the police community affairs development (PCAD) is on-going since last week, a post-blast investigation course assisted by the personnel of the US Embassy (who are experts of the subject matter taught) which ended last week, information operation course (also ended last week) and the patrol officers basic course, which emphasizes that police work is more on doing patrol on their respective beats, according to Gamba.

All trainings, the police spokesperson said, aim for the effectiveness and efficiency of the personnel in the delivery of their services to the community.

Furthermore, on the aspect of upgrading the police firearms, the PNP is in the process of acquiring 30,000 assault rifles and Caraga region is priority for its future distribution, Gamba said. (PNA/PIA-Caraga)

Monday, November 16, 2015

DOH-Caraga strengthens campaign to eliminate filariasis, malaria

By Daisy Jane M. Apit

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 16 (PIA) – The Department of Health (DOH) - Caraga has strengthened its campaign to eliminate mosquito transmitted-diseases by declaring the month of November as filariasis and malaria consciousness month.

It was declared through the Executive Order No. 369 and Presidential Proclamation No. 1168, respectively.

November shall also be the month for the annual mass treatment against filariasis.

“The annual mass treatment is an approach which involves the entire community in killing microscopic worms and controlling mosquitoes,” DOH-Caraga assistant regional director Cesar Cassion said.

In the region, three provinces have already been declared filaria-free: Dinagat Islands, Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur. Whereas, only Surigao del Norte and Dinagat Islands were declared as malaria-free provinces.

“This is actually the global campaign to eliminate the said diseases. Prioritizing the vulnerable population, we will never stop our efforts to combat the diseases until the entire region is declared free of such,” Cassion said.

Filariasis is an infection caused by microscopic, thread-like worms called filarial worms and is transmitted to people through the bite of an infected mosquito which develops into adult worms. It causes great damage and overwhelming swelling known as lymphoedema. The best way to prevent lymphatic filariasis is to avoid mosquito bites.  While, Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by plasmodium parasites that are transmitted to people through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. And to prevent and reduce Malaria transmission, vector control is the main tactic.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends protection for all people through the use of mosquito nets or insecticide-treated mosquito nets and indoor residual spraying.

To date, DOH Caraga is on the verge of preventing and controlling the mosquito-transmitted diseases until its region wide elimination. (DJA/PIA-Caraga)

Tandag City to hold 3rd Children’s Congress

By Greg Tataro Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Nov. 16 (PIA) – The city government here, in collaboration with the Local Council for the Protection of Children (LCPC), is set to hold the 3rd Children’s Congress to highlight the 23rd National Children’s Month celebration at Tandag City Gymnasium on November 20, 2015.

Tessie Buniel, city social welfare and development officer, had already sent out all programs of invitation.

With the theme “Kumunidad at Pamahalaan Magkaisa, Pang-aabuso sa Bata Wakasan na!,” the CSWDO chief bared the lined-up activities for the month-long affair.

Meanwhile, she expressed optimism that “this congress will surely redound to the benefits of the children of Tandag City.”

The city government had been celebrating the Children’s Month year in and year out based on R.A. 10661 otherwise known as National Children’s Month Act.  However, this year’s event would be purposely held in order “to highlight children’s rights and responsibilities to the society,” Buniel pointed out in her letter to Atty. Janissa Delicona, city legal officer, this local government unit (LGU), one of the activity’s speakers.

“This program/activity is only limited to grade V-VI 4P’s pupils in the elementary schools within the City of Tandag including the student leaders of different educational institutions,” she clarified.

Carrying out this event was likewise aimed “to encourage stakeholders promote and advocate children’s participation in decision making process at all levels (family, community, etc.),” Buniel added. (NGBT/Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Surigao Norte town receives P1M for Pasalubong Center

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Nov. 16 (PIA) – The local government unit (LGU) of Claver of this province recently received P1 million check from the Department of Trade and Industry  (DTI) for the implementation of their Pasalubong Center project under the Bottom Up Budgeting (BUB) Program.

The Pasalubong Center is expected to benefit the local producers that will be displaying and selling their local products.

The local government is helping the micro-entreprises and farmers cooperatives in various productive endeavors producing handicrafts, processed food and souvenirs items hence they proposed the aforesaid project.

Claver mayor Eddie P. Gokiangkee was grateful to DTI Surigao del Norte headed by provincial director Celestino L. Negapatan for the support in facilitating the release of the said project fund that will be used to support local micro-entrepreneurs in the said municipality.

DTI supported Claver LGU initiatives under the BUB program considering the town’s flourishing local businesses and increasing visitors’ arrival.

The check was handed to mayor Gokiangkee by Rodrigo R. Matabaran, Supervising Trade and Industry Development Specialist during the simple turn over ceremony held recently at Claver Municipal Hall.

Witnessing the released were Trade and Industry Development Specialist - DTI BUB technical staff Ninebeth Romo, Municipal Planning and Development Coordinator Eva B. Casido, and Claver BUB Coordinator Jason D. Buhion. (SDR/DTI-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

SurSur town up for 13th Surfing Festival

By Greg Tataro Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Nov. 16 (PIA) – Lanuza town, 43 kilometers north, this city, is already set for the holding of 13th Surfing Festival at Doot-Poktoy Surfing Paradise on November 23-28, 2015.

Based on the official program of invitation, the activity will be held simultaneous with the 7th Agri-Aqua Trade Fair plus a lot more of side occasions like the inter-school beach dancing contest, fun run, coastal clean-up, old-fashioned volleyball, indigenous vegetable cooking contest, boat racing, "photo ko, like mo contest," search for Ms. Surfin’ Lanuza, and more.

However, the main event for the six-day affair will always be the open surfing competition for men and wahine on short- and longboards alike.

Surfing participants are expected to arrive at least two days ahead of the opening day due to the registration schedule as well as briefing.

The said town does not only take pride of  other famous eco-tourism destination and attraction such as Mangrove Forest, Campamento Caves, Magkawas Falls, Herrera Ancestral House, Lanuza Agsam Craft, Sanctuary Café, Sanctuary Guardhouse, and Rafflesia but it is also proud of its amiable folk.

The Provincial Tourism Office here headed by Caridad Rosina Ronquillo had already been tapped for the usual support.

Michelle Pareja, assistant provincial tourism chief, said that the host locality was asking for P500,000  financial assistance from the provincial government.

However, Governor Johnny Pimentel has yet to give his word on the matter, according to Marjorie Pagaran, secretary to the governor. (NGBT/Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Friday, November 13, 2015

Team CSU brings home the 9th inter agency, LGU statistics quiz championship

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 13 (PIA) - Team Caraga State University (CSU) with Angela Fel Padecio, Gilbert Alerta and Breix Michael Agua at the helm, triumphed over 15 other teams from different agencies in the 9th Inter Agency / LGU statistics Quiz which was held at the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Multipurpose Hall, Libertad, this city last October 30, 2015.

The said competition was part of the series of activities of the 26th National Statistics Month (NSM) celebration that showcases the prowess of the government employees in the field of statistics and general knowledge.

Team CSU earned a total score of 36 points to secure the top rank in the quiz. The team was awarded with a cash prize and certificates. Runner-ups were teams from DILG Region 13, composed of Don Manuelo Patrimonio, Jeffrey Dorola and Luth Edmund Apresto and team from LGU-Province of Agusan del Norte composed of Bernardita Tener, Tijani Auxtero and Armi Escatron for the 1st and 2nd runners-up, respectively.

This activity is one of the highlights during the closing ceremonies of the 26th NSM and was spearheaded by the Regional Statistics Committee of Caraga thru the National Economic and Development Authority, Philippine Statistical Association Regional Statistical Services Office No. 13, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas - Butuan Branch and Department of Health - Caraga Region. (PSA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

AgNor solon co-authors house bill to lower income tax

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 13 (PIA) - Rep. Lawrence Lemuel ‘Law’ H. Fortun of the first district of Agusan del Norte has co-authored a house bill to lower income tax burdened by Filipinos.

The bill takes cognizance of the long overdue reforms of the National Internal Revenue Code (NIRC) adopted in 1997, or 18 years passed. As income of salaried individuals is increased to keep it at par with the rising inflation, “they are pushed into higher income brackets, and, thus, are compelled to pay more taxes that they should,” the explanatory note of the bill reads.

The said legislative measure to cut income tax stemmed from House Bill 4829 authored in the lower house by Rep. Miro Quimbo and was co-authored by Reps. Fortun, Villar, Abayon, Del Rosario (A.G.), Zamora (M.), Javier, Belmonte (J.), Chipeco, Primicias- Agabas, and Lanete.

The tax reform, the first in two decades, would provide more disposable income for wage earners and corporations but reduce the government’s revenue collections, it was learned.

The bill pending in both chambers of Congress proposes to raise the tax exemption ceiling to P150,000 a year and lower the income tax rate currently pegged at 32 percent.

It would also raise from P500,000 to P10 million the trigger for the higher income tax rate and reduce the corporate tax rate from 32 percent to 25 percent.

As the Congress reopens, Fortun expressed his high hopes for the timely passage of the bill before the end of Pres. Aquino’s administration. (Lawig Katawhan/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

DENR-13 funds 15 LGUs taking part in the NGP

By Herzon F. Gallego

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 13 (PIA) - About 15 barangays in Caraga Region are participating in the National Greening Program of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) through the Bottoms-Up Budgeting (BUB) with a total funding of P25.2 million.

However, the DENR-13 top management has expressed dismay over the slow utilization of the funds that were allocated to the different Local Government Units (LGUs) for the seedling production and areas developed considering that an average of 39 percent of the total funds was only utilized. A total of P9.882, 268 of the total fund allocation have been so far disbursed by the DENR as of September 30, 2015.

Nevertheless, DENR Caraga regional director Nonito M. Tamayo has issued instructions to all PENR Officers of Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Sur, Agusan del Norte and Dinagat Islands to provide technical assistance to slow performing LGU particularly in Bunawan and San Francisco, Agusan del Sur where activities appeared to have been stalled. “The NGP component in the BUB is expected to provide job opportunities to the people who are actively involved in the seedling productions,” Tamayo said.

“Barangay officials who enrolled their participation in the NGP should take advantage of the job opportunities to bring additional income to the poor families in their respective barangay,” Tamayo said.

Based on the report of the DENR Conservation and Development Division office, only the province of Dinagat Islands has utilized about 68 percent of the P3 million funds allotted to the local government for the production of 136,500 seedlings which were planted in the different planting site covering a total of 273 hectares.

He said while other Peoples Organizations in the region are in full swing in the production and planting of seedlings, the 15 LGUs involved in the BUB should as possible double their efforts to catch up with the program. (DENR-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Thursday, November 12, 2015

Some 250 IOs join the 13th MindaComNet Congress in Cagayan de Oro City

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Nov. 12 (PIA) - Some 250 information officers from the government offices  and government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs)  in the five regions in Mindanao island participated in the 13th Mindanao Communicators Network (MindaComNet) Congress from November 11-13, 2015 with the theme "Investment Opportunities in Mindanao Towards ASEAN Integration," held at Pryce Plaza Hotel, this city. ‪

The 13th MindaComNet is hosted by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) region 10 and graced by the regional directors from the different regions in Mindanao.

This year's Day-1 of the 13th MindaComNet Congress started Wednesday afternoon with the entrance of colors led by the ROTC cadets from Capitol University followed with doxology and singing of national anthem. PIA region 10 regional director Thelma Oliver gave the significance of the yearly conduct of said congress and relayed the flow of the 3-day activity.

Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Sonny Coloma, through an audio-visual presentation delivered his message to all the participants and urged all the government information officers to level up and give its best talent so people will continue to be informed and participate in the government's efforts especially in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) integration. ‪

"Let us continue working together in the spirit of bayanihan and let us persevere in building peace in Mindanao. Building peace is the best foundation in encouraging more investments and opportunities for the people in the different regions in Mindanao," cited Sec. Coloma.

Also, PIA region 11 regional director Efren Elbanbuena expressed his warm thanks to all the information officers of the government and GOCCs from the different regions in Mindanao. "We will definitely learn more from this three-day congress and let us all continue to be more innovative in our field of work. There is more that we can still do that will reflect better impact to the lives of the people that we serve in the community. Let us also continue to disseminate relevant information especially when we go back to our respective regions," he remarked.

Meanwhile, as one of the honored guest speakers, Major General Oscar Lactao, commander of 4th Infantry Division of Philippine Army discussed the Internal Security and Peace Plan - the "Bayanihan". "We are here to apprise you on the role of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in serving a stable business environment contributory to generating investment opportunities and economic development," he underscored.

Lactao also elaborated that the Oplan Bayanihan uses a whole-nation and people-centered approaches during today's opening program of the MindaComNet Congress held in Cagayan de Oro City. "We can't achieve national security without human security. And freedom from fear, wants and needs are also the major factors to achieve peace and security. The AFP hope to impart our perspective on the role of government communicators particularly on dealing with information-based security threats which undermines government initiatives and programs," he added.

The said official further said that the "government communicators play a significant role to undertake joint efforts in dealing with information-based threats, convey the truth by massively projecting the good news, expose the contradictions and lies of anarchist, and intensify fusion of government organizations."

Meanwhile, Dr. Jeff Ponce of Oro Photographic Society tackled the Mobile and Available Light Photography. Among the relevant points in his discussion include the technical and compositional objectives of photography, and proper handling of camera.

The MindaComNet is an organization of government public information and relations officers of national government agencies, government-owned and controled corporation (GOCCs), government financial institutions, state universities and colleges (SUCs) and the local government units (LGUs) in Mindanao. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

DPWH 13 hails best display of statistical practices

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 12 (PIA) - The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Caraga bagged the first ever Best Display of Statistical Practices which was conceptualized by the Philippine Statistics Authority - Regional Statistical Services Office No. 13 (PSA –RSSO 13).

Runners – up were Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas – Butuan Branch and Department of Trade and Industry – Caraga, in 1st and 2nd, respectively. Winners received cash prices and certificate of recognition.

The contest affirmed the partnership among the data providers, producers and users in the enhancement of the statistical products and services. There were 16 participating agencies in this year’s contest. It was aimed to promote the effective delivery of government statistical services and ensure the relevance of outputs in other statistical undertakings in the region. The activity was one of the highlights of the 26th National Statistics Month Celebration.

The judges were: Himaya Veronica D. Juni, Station Manager of DXBN 792 Radyo ng Bayan, Presa P. Villarina, Statistician 1 and Bernadeth I. Bonachita, Accountant II of PSA - RSSO 13. The Criteria for Judging were as follows: Content (50%), Visual Appeal (30%) and Mechanics (20%). (PSA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Tagalog News: Lanao del Norte gob binigyang-halaga ang papel ng mga IOs sa pagpapaunlad ng turismo at pamuhunan sa Mindanao    

Ni Jennifer P. Gaitano

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Nob. 12 (PIA) - Binigyang-diin ni Governor Mohamad Khalid Dimaporo ang malaking papel ng mga government information officers sa pagpapalaganap ng mga mabubuti at makabuluhang balita lalung-lao na sa isla ng Mindanao nang sa ganun ay maka-enganyo pa ng maraming turista at investors na bumisita sa ibat-ibang rehiyon sa Mindanao.

Pinahalagahan din ni Gov. Dimaporo ang aktibong partisipasyon ng mga information officers sa kasalukuyang ginaganap na ikalabin-tatlong taong Congress ng Mindanao Communicators Network (MindaComNet) sa Pryce Plaza Hotel, Cagayan de Oro City na nagsimula noong Miyerkules, Nobyembre 12 at magtatapos sa Nobyembre 13, 2015.

Anya, ang Philippine Information Agency (PIA) ay isa sa mga nauunang ahensya ng pamahalaan kasama ang mga information officers ng ibat-ibang ahensya na may kakayahan na mabago ang imahe ng Mindanao sa pamamagitan ng pagpresenta at pagbigay-pokus sa mga magagandang balita na makapagbibigay-linaw rin sa publiko na hindi naman lahat ng rehiyon o lugar sa Mindanao ay may nagaganap na kaguluhan o kriminalidad.

Lahat naman anya ng pulo sa Pilipinas mula Luzon, Visayas at Mindanao ay may nababalitang gulo at hindi raw nakakabuti sa ekonomiya ng isang bansa ang pagpukos ng mga nakakasamang balita sa pahayagan.

Kailangan anya para sa mga businessmen at investors ang tiwala at patuloy na koordinasyon sa mga local government units kung saan nila gustong mag-invest ng negosyo upang maseguro ang kanilang kaligtasan at kalakalan na makapagbibigay rin ng oportunidad sa mga tao sa lugar.

Dagdag pa niya, hindi dapat paniwalaan lahat ng mga masasamang balita sa mindanao na syang nakikita ng mga tao sa telebisyon, nababasa sa mga pribadong pahayagan at napapakinggan sa radyo.

Katulad anya sa Lanao del Norte na kahit sa pagkakataong may nababalitang kidnapping ay hindi naman daw ito malala’ kung ikokompara sa mga naitalang kidnapping sa Manila base sa crime statistics.

Pinuri rin ni Gov. Dimaporo ang lahat ng mga information officers sa gobyerno sa patuloy nitong pagbibigay-halaga sa mabubuting mensahi katulad ng mga national activities sa rehiyon na makakatulong sa imahe ng Mindanao.

Patungkol naman sa Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) integration 2015, ipinahayag ni Gov. Dimaporo ang kanyang optimismo na mapapalawak pa ng Pilipinas ang kalakalan at industriya lalung-lalo na sa Mindanao. (JPG/PIA-Caraga) 

Wednesday, November 11, 2015

AgNor receives Corn Achiever Award 2015

By Aimee B. Sienes-Sajor

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 11 (PIA) - The provincial government of Agusan del Norte recently received an award from the Department of Agriculture (DA) as one of the Corn Achiever Awardees in the entire country.

The Corn Quality Achievement Award is an annual national search by the Department of Agriculture that started in the year 2013. This is the second time the province of Agusan del Norte received such award.

Agusan del Norte was one of the five provinces awarded that carried with it P3 million worth of projects from DA to be downloaded to the province.


Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba said in her message during the convocation held on Monday, November 9, 2015 at the Capitol lobby, that this is an honor for the province of Agusan del Norte to be recognized in the national level as having the best performance in corn production, and also encouraged the employees to eat organic corn for a healthy lifestyle.

She also hoped that next year the province will again covet such an award to be considered in the Hall of Fame.


DA Caraga acting regional director Edna M. Mabeza also attended the presentation of award and gave a short message encouraging the provincial government to maintain the good performance as Corn Quality Achievement Awardee.


On the other hand, Oscar S. Tuyor, Agriculturist II of the Provincial Agriculturist Office and Provincial Corn Coordinator of the DA corn project, was hailed as an Outstanding Provincial Corn Coordinator in the national level. (LGU Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

35 Tagana-an OFWs undergo financial literacy, simple bookkeeping training

By Jean Pearl I. Millones

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 11 (PIA) - “Earning money as an OFW is never an easy task, but seeing the fruits of your labor after years of sacrifice will make it all worth it. And it all comes from being able to manage our hard-earned finances very well,” bared former OFW and Tagana-an municipal mayor Cesar Diaz.

In the aspiration to aid the OFW families to become self-sustaining and to provide reintegration services by safeguarding their earnings and introducing ways for it to grow, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) together with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) carried out a one-day Financial Literacy and Simple Bookkeeping seminar to the 35 OFWs and beneficiaries of Tagana-an, Surigao del Norte last November 6, 2015.

DTI Senior Trade and Industry Development Specialist Evelyn Arlan tackled the status of life in the community and the poverty threshold showing that majority of Filipinos are living below the line. She further shared the simple ways and lifestyles that could help in cutting down household expenses, thus maximizing the family’s income.

In her discussion on Financial Literacy, Arlan emphasized the value of budgeting and leveling of the family’s needs and wants. The concept of saving and securing investments were likewise highlighted. The participants were given several exercises on budgeting and recording to facilitate substantial learning.

The agency’s programs and services were also discussed by OFW Bepu Brylle R. Bangcoyo. He also facilitated the election of the organization’s new set of officers.

Tagana-an PESO manager Janecito Jalbo extended his gratitude to the agency. He also expressed his hopes to continue partnering with the agency to provide more organizational development activities for the empowerment of Tagana-an OFWs. (OWWA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

DTI releases new SRPs

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Nov. 11 (PIA) – The Consumer Protection and Advocacy Bureau (CPAB) under the Consumer Protection Group of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has released new suggested retail prices (SRP) of basic necessities and prime commodities as of November 2, 2015, the new release succeeded the September 1, 2015 SRP.

Almost all SRPs of basic and prime commodities remain the same except for the Budget Bar (Blue, White with Tawas, Kalamansi, Speckled Blue) Laundry Soap that had lowered its suggested retail price by P.90 from P17.25 in the September 1, 2015 SRP to P16.35.

Major retail establishments in the city were provided of the latest SRP for their information. The SRP will also be posted at the business establishments premises for the reading of the buying public.

For consumers who are interested to know more about SRP and other related concerns are encouraged to visit and contact the DTI office located at the 2nd Floor, Simtoco Building, Burgos Street, this city or contact telephone number (086) 826-6129. (SDR/DTI-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Tuesday, November 10, 2015

DAR–AgSur conducts APCP periodic consultation, coordination meeting

By Jonalyn Camacho

AGUSAN DEL SUR, Nov. 10 (PIA) - The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) of this province has recently conducted the Agrarian Production Credit Program (APCP) Periodic Consultation and Coordination Meeting held at ASSAMCO Training Center, Brgy. 5, San Francisco, here involving key officers of Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Organizations (ARBOs) along with their Municipal Agrarian Reform Program Officers (MAROs) and Development Facilitators (DFs).

The activity is aimed to facilitate ARBOs problems, issues, needs and concerns relative to the availment of this crop production loan (APCP) to Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP).

LBP account officer Lucille L. Fernandez gave a comprehensive report on the status of folders being submitted and updates on releases, dues and credit line expiration. Ratz Alenton, manager of Kennemer Foods International, Inc. (KFI), a partner for cacao production in the province also attended the event and reported the filed validation they performed as technical provider of the ARBOs.

Agusan del Sur got the biggest share in the program amounting to 60 percent of the target of the program in the whole CARAGA. The program involved 30 ARBOs and has served 1,144 borrowers (households/ARBs) repeatedly and satisfactorily experienced re-availment of the loan.

The approved credit line as of October this year was gauged close to P40-M mostly on rice production while cacao production proposed amount is P58-M to be approved, which will benefit 965 ARBs.

Also, Ronie C. Gayol, the APCP provincial coordinator announced that on November 12-13, 2015, the ARBOs will be holding the Cacao Exposure trip to Maragusan, Compostella Valley (COMVAL) province to KFI in Calinan, Davao del Sur that will be of great help to the farmers. (JPG/DAR-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

OWWA Caraga slates 2015 OFW Family Day

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 10 (PIA) - The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Regional Welfare Office Caraga is set to celebrate the one-day OFW Family Day on December 12, 2015.

OWWA Caraga regional director Samuel S. Madrid extends his invitation to Caraganon OFWs and families to share in this merriment and fun-filled occasion that gives tribute to the OFW Families after their endurance to a life of separation.

The yearly celebration intends to promote the importance of spending quality time and togetherness amongst OFW families through enthusiastic participation in various activities.

This year, the agency decided to bring the activity closer and easily accessible to the OFWs outside Butuan City and offer more convenience to the members from distant municipalities and provinces.

More than 1,500 OFWs, active and inactive, beneficiaries and OFW families are expected to gather from all over the region to join in the celebration at the Surigao Provincial Gymnasium, Surigao City.

Interested members may avail of the pre-registration at their local PESO Offices or visit the regional office at Nimfa Tiu Bldg. 2, JP Rosales Ave., Butuan City or call us at tel. nos. (085) 342-6178 and (085) 815-1894. (OWWA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

DAR turns over P49.6M infra projects in Surigao Sur

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 10 (PIA) - The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) recently turned over P49.6-million worth of infrastructure projects in Barobo, Surigao del Sur to improve the quality of lives of farmers and residents in the municipality.

DAR Caraga regional director Julita Ragandang said the multi-million project, funded under the DAR-Agrarian Reform Infrastructure Project Phase III (ARISP-III), includes a seven-kilometer NRJ Dughan-Javier farm-to-market road improvement and construction of a 36.8 meter flatslab bridge.

 “The projects are expected to benefit 834 agrarian reform beneficiaries and thousand other residents of Barangays Dughan, San Jose and Javier, all of Barobo, Surigao Sur,” Ragandang said.

She thanked the local government units, both provincial and municipal, for their support especially in generating the local government’s counterpart. “Indeed, the counterpart of the local government is essential in realizing these big projects,” she said.

The turn-over ceremony was attended by Surigao Sur Governor Johnny Pimentel, DAR Regional Director Julita Ragandang, Barobo Mayor Felixberto Urbiztondo, ARISP Assistant- National Project Manager Henry Zapata,  National Project Engineer Mel Lamboon, Assistant Regional Director Daylinda Narisma and Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer Benjamin Mataksil.

Governor Pimentel lauded the DAR for its efforts and concern to the residents of the municipality and advised project beneficiaries to take good care of the project.

“Farmers and the local government play very important role in the post-construction phase and that is to use the infrastructure projects with care and contribute to its maintenance,” Pimentel said.

For Dughan Barangay Captain Alex Maceda, the project is a dream come true. “Thank you so much to all the government agencies who are supporting us, most especially to DAR,” he said. (DAR-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

SEC warns public against investing in direct marketing firm

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Nov. 10 (PIA) – The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has warned the public against investing in Direct Marketing Group International Corporation also known as DMG International.

In its latest advisory, the SEC said DMG International entices people to invest at least P1,000 pesos with a promise of a P200 or 20 percent return on the 11th day. In addition, for every P1,000 pesos invested, three kilograms of rice would be given to investors every 10 days.

On an option-only basis, the investors may engage in direct selling of consumer products but this option is discouraged in favor of the first option.

The entity operates in Caloocan City and also claims to be operating in Kalinga, Marilao and other parts of the country.

According to the SEC, the company operates a typical Ponzi scheme it has no viable business operation and the earlier investors, who were promised high returns are paid form funds collected from new investors.

“As such the investment cannot be registered by the SEC,” the SEC said.

The SEC noted that none of the DMG’s officers, uplines recruiters, sellers, or agents has been issued an license to act as certified solicitor, investment adviser, broker and dealer in securities as required by law.

“The public is hereby advised to stop investing in the said entity and to exercise caution in dealing with its officers and promoters,” the SEC said.

The SEC has noticed a rise in the number of investment scams in the country. To address the problem, the corporate regulator is being extra vigilant against fraudulent firms by looking into incorporators previously involved in investment frauds.

Among these companies include Klikmart Shopping Club Copr. or Klikmart Rewards, Grand Time Automobile, Mutual Universe Corporation, and Wealth Builder Advertising.

In a separate advisory, the SEC said Klikmart is operating as a marketing plan which promises investors a 33 percent interest after a minimum period of 21 days to a maximum period of one month. The Grandtime meanwhile, is also operating as a marketing plan with members paying an initial entry fee of P1,500 pesos.

Similarly, Mutual Universe Corporation has no secondary license to solicit investment from the public. Under its scheme, investors shall infuse an initial capital of P7,499 with a guaranteed income of P40,000 to P120,000. (SDR/DTI-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

38 potential ARBs take oath for Farmers’ undertaking

By Kristine H. Pedralvez

AGUSAN DEL SUR, Nov. 10 (PIA) - Thirty-eight identified potential and qualified Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) had recently took oath before Judge Lou A. Nueva, acting MCTC judge for Application to Purchase and Farmer’s Undertaking (APFU) held at the Municipal Circuit Trial Court (MCTC), Esperanza town, this province.

The seven landholdings that is covered by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) with a total of 58.6202 hectares were applied by the identified ARBs. Prior to the oath taking instructions and reminders were given by Joven R. Pizarro, OIC-MARPO of Esperanza to instill the importance, necessity and significance of the said event to the potential ARBs.

In accordance with Republic Act (R.A.) No. 6657, the identified and qualified ARBs of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) will apply as ARB over the land and where identified and screened by the DAR. They will then be obligated to pay amortization and real property tax. Likewise, they shall acknowledge that a mortgage of the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) shall secure their obligation after LBP acquire the subject farm lots.

Also, the identified ARBs must work on the land to make it productive and should be aware that any negligence and misuse of the land or any support services that will be given, shall disqualify them as beneficiaries of the CARP. Finally, they will be obligated to comply with the agrarian laws, rules and regulations.

The said event ended with a message from Judge Nueva saying that since they have been given these opportunities, they should reciprocate by cultivating and taking responsibility of their lands. (JPG/DAR-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)