Thursday, November 26, 2015

Butuan Diocese, CCPD to hold Climate Solidarity Prayer March

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 26 (PIA) – As part of the activities for the yearly celebration of the Mindanao Week of Peace, the Diocese of Butuan through the Commission on Services, in cooperation with the Caraga Conference for Peace and Development (CCPD) together with the Muslim Communities, Indigenous Peoples and different stakeholders in the region will hold the ‘Climate Solidarity Prayer March’ on November 29, 2015, 5:00 a.m. at the city’s Guingona Park.

“I am calling everyone to participate and support in solidarity with Pope Francis’ Campaign – LAUDATO Si, which means care for our home place, Mother Earth,” expressed Butuan Bishop and CCPD Convenor Most Rev. Juan de Dios Pueblos.

Bishop Pueblos revealed that on November 29, 2015, hours before the meeting of world leaders in Paris for the Conference of Parties (COP) 21 Climate Summit, over a million people will also gather in over 2,000 cities around the world for a historic Global Climate March.

“The Global Catholic Climate Movement (GCCM) has enjoined every Catholic and non-Catholic to participate in this event. We fervently pray that this climate scenario will not worsen and encourage the renewal of our relationship with God’s creation, for current and future generations,” discoursed Bishop Pueblos. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Dinagat Island holds 3rd PPOC meeting

SAN JOSE, Dinagat Islands, Nov. 26 (PIA) – The provincial government of Dinagat Islands recently conducted its 3rd Quaterly Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) Meeting held at 4G Building, this province.

The members who attended the said meeting were able to discuss several issues concerning the formulation of the Peace and Order and Public Safety Plan (POPS Plan), presentation of the Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Campaign Action Plan, presentation of the proposed 2016 budget for peace and order, and several significant accomplishments to ensure public safety, promote peace and order and maintain the province’s status quo as “Insurgency-Free Province” were also reported.

During the meeting, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Caraga regional director Julius R. Navales said that he will assist the provincial government in its effort to achieve a “Drug-Free Workplace” by conducting a random drug testing to all capitol employees.

Along with the activity is the awarding of plaque of recognition to outgoing members of the council who relentlessly exerted their efforts to accomplish their respective mandates.

Among the awardees are former Fire Marshal F/Insp. Ellafil A. Libarnes, BJMP Jail Warden JO3 Antonio P. Basa and PSSupt. Crispulo P. Casilana. (SDR/Provincial Government of Dinagat Islands/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Surigao Norte joins 18-day campaign to end VAW

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Nov. 26 (PIA) – Women organizations and other multi-sectoral groups of the province join in the national observance of the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW), that started yesterday (Nov. 25) themed, “End VAW Now” It’s Our Duty: Gains and Ways Forward” in coordination with the provincial government of Surigao del Norte through the Provincial Center for Women’s Training and Development in coordination with the Provincial Gender and Development Coordinating Council (PGADCC).

The celebration kicked off Wednesday morning with a thanksgiving mass held at the provincial capitol chapel followed by a motorcade around the city, and a short program and Zumba dance at the provincial grandstand.

Governor Sol F. Matugas, in her inspirational message, said that violence against women has no place in a civilized society, "it is a sin against humanity and so we must all stand up everyday to protect the life and rights of women, and believe that women can do so much to improve the province and the country."

Other lined-up activities for the 18-day observance includee women’s right and livelihood skills training, radio guesting, school symposium (high school and college level), VAW forum, lecture on STI/HIV AIDS (for World AIDS Day celebration), and team building for GADCC members. (SDR/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Wednesday, November 25, 2015

RDC-GADCC Caraga spearheads 18-Day Campaign to End VAW, highlights men in high-heeled shoes

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 25 (PIA) – In line with this year’s kick-off celebration of the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW), the Regional Development Council – Gender and Development Coordinating Committee (RDC-GADCC) Caraga conducted the Fun-Walk activity with employees from the government and partner stakeholders and highlighted the men wearing high-heeled shoes from the Guingona Park going to provincial capitol’s covered court, this city.

Sangguniang Panglungsod (SP) board member Elizabeth Calo of Agusan del Norte congratulated and warmly welcomed all the government agencies and other stakeholders who participated and attended the said kick-off program. She also encouraged the government workers to continuously advocate against VAW and extend help (in their own little ways) to those women whom they know are undergoing struggles in life.  

On behalf of RDC-GADCC chairperson Atty. Marylin Pintor, Commission on Human Rights (CHR) Caraga regional director, co-chair Edna Hontiveros of Forward Filipina Inc., shared the overview/rationale of this year's celebration of the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW).

"I salute all the participating men of today's kick-off ceremony thru a fun-walk activity who walked wearing high-heeled shoes from the city's Guingona Park going here at the capitol. One of the objectives of the 18-Day Campaign to end VAW is to raise awareness among all stakeholders that VAW is a public issue of national interest," she added.

Hontiveros further revealed that these men who wore high-heeled shoes during the fun-walk have shown support to all the women of all walks of life. “It is by walking in a woman’s shoes that one can tell how it is like to be a woman,” she said.

Also, representing Department of Health (DOH) Caraga regional director Jose Llacuna, assistant regional director Ernesto Pareja stressed that one way to help in reduction if not elimination of the violence against women is to avoid in engaging in any form of violence. “Men should be protectors of women but everyone must help in making this world a better place, free from any fear and any form of violence,” he remarked.

The participating men from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Caraga won and received a cash prize from RDC-GADCC for being the most number of men wearing high-heeled shoes.

Meanwhile, all the participants also enjoyed the last part of the program which was the Zumba activity.‪

This year's 18-Day Campaign to End VAW is anchored on the theme: "End VAW Now! It's Our Duty!: Gains and Ways Forward," from Wednesday, November 25, 2015 to Saturday, December 12, 2015.

It is an annual event that supports the Philippine Government’s goal to protect the human rights of women and its commitment to address all forms of VAW. The following issuances provide the national legal mandates for the annual campaign: Proclamation 1172 s. 2006 – Declaring 25 November to 12 December as the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW); and Republic Act 10398 (2013) – Declaring November 25 of Every Year as National Consciousness Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Children.

The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence is an international campaign originating from the first Women's Global Leadership Institute sponsored by the Center for Women's Global Leadership (CWGL) at Rutgers University in 1991. Participants chose the dates, November 25, International Day Against Violence Against Women, and December 10, International Human Rights Day, in order to symbolically link violence against women and human rights and to emphasize that such violence is a human rights violation. In the Philippines, the government has expanded it in 2006 by virtue of Presidential Proclamation 1172 to include up to December 12, which marks the adoption of the United Nation Convention Against Transnational Crime, thus making it an 18-Day Campaign. (JPG/DJMA/PIA-Caraga)

75 displaced Caraganon OFWs undergo financial literacy, entrepreneurship dev training

By Jean Pearl I. Millones

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 25 (PIA) - A total of 75 displaced member-Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) availed of the Entrepreneurship Development Training (EDT) and Financial Literacy (FinLit) for Balik Pinas!, Balik Hanapbuhay! Program of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Caraga on November 16 and 23, at the OWWA Training Hall here.

Two batches of Balik Pinas!, Balik Hanapbuhay! Program applicants were provided with the basic concepts of efficient budgeting, financial management and saving approaches. They were likewise introduced to the Potential Entrepreneurial Competency Test (PECT).

Jean Mary G. Ronquillo, OWWO II, facilitated the activity and cited that the PECT contains self-rating questionnaires which involves ten characteristics that are most likely possessed by an entrepreneur.

The said training is extended by OWWA as part of its reintegration services to encourage its member-OFWs, especially those who were faced with adversities during their stint overseas, to venture into livelihood and entrepreneurship for them eventually become self-sustaining individuals.

Moreover, OWWA Caraga Programs and Services DIvision officer-in-charge Ma. Irene C. Cambaling assisted the OFWs in identifying their prospect business venture which adheres to priority projects including, but not limited to, health and wellness, house repairs, food processing, handicraft, goods under the One Town, One Product (OTOP) scheme and agriculture-related projects.

Cambaling also emphasized the need to select livelihood opportunities that will generate a sustainable source of income.

The EDT is the primary requirement in availing the Balik Pinas!, Balik Hanapbuhay program of OWWA which grants a non-cash livelihood assistance of P10,000.00-worth starter kits and other incidental services that will aid the beneficiary towards self or wage employment.

Michael S. Pates, an engineer from Ghana, Africa, extended his gratitude to OWWA for the assistance that he greatly needs especially after his contract’s pre-termination. “I am very thankful, that after I have lost a job, I am still provided with programs to help me generate income for my family,” bared Pates.

The Balik Pinas! Balik Hanapbuhay! Program is available for OWWA members whose contracts were pre-terminated and were displaced by hostilities, wars/political conflict in the host country, victims of illegal recruitment or human trafficking who have returned to the Philippines for not more than one year. (OWWA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

P7.3M road rehab in Cabadbaran City OK’d

By Aimee B. Sienes

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 25 (PIA) - The rehabilitation and improvement of the Comagascas-Del Pilar-Pirada Provincial Road in the city of Cabadbaran, Agusan del Norte has already a funding in the amount of P7,349,456.00.

This was declared by the provincial government of Agusan del Norte through the Provincial Engineer’s Office that it is one of the priority projects under the Social Local Road Fund-Motor Vehicle User’s Charge (SLRF-MVUC), calendar year 2015 budget of the DPWH.

Pursuant to Republic Act 8794 or the Motor Vehicle User’s Charge (MVUC) Law, it mandates to provide for and ensure the adequate maintenance of national and provincial roads through sufficient funding for the purpose. The law also mandates that “all monies collected under this Act shall be earmarked solely and used exclusively a) for road maintenance and improvement of road drainage; b) for the installation of adequate and efficient traffic lights and road safety devices and c) for air pollution control.”

To fast track the release of the funds to the province, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Agusan del Norte recently authorized Provincial Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba to sign the Tripartite Memorandum of Agreement with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) for the implementation of the said project.

The DPWH and DILG are signatories to the MOA considering that the DPWH is tasked to handle the Special Road Support Fund, Special Local Roads Fund and Special Road Safety Fund, which shall be apportioned to provincial and city governments in accordance with the vehicle population and size of the road network under their respective jurisdictions and shall be used exclusively for maintenance of local roads, traffic management and road safety devices. And the DILG is an agency mandated to exercise general supervision over the local government units (LGUs) and is tasked to strengthen the capability of the LGUs in the delivery of services including the maintenance and construction of local roads.

Sanggunian Resolution No. 318-2015 authorizing Gov. Amante-Matba to sign the said MOA was pushed for approval by the SP through the Committee on Public Works and Provincial Properties chaired by Provincial Board Member Danny M. Moran. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Tuesday, November 24, 2015

Feature: Building partnership in Del Carmen

By Danny Escabarte

The three-hour boat ride from Surigao City to Dapa, Siargao Island is challenging. Still drizzling when the boat left the city, sleep had to be shortened to be able to catch up with the boat that will be leaving for the island at daybreak. This trip will bring us to the town of Del Carmen, where a two-classroom school building will be constructed for the high school students of Surigao State College of Technology (SSCT).

Waves at Siargao Strait inspired passengers to take a nap as the boat cruises towards the island. Shoreline villages ringed with mangroves and coconut trees catches the sight of curious onlookers, while other passengers sought better positions to take a rest.

It’s almost noon time when the boat docked at Dapa wharf. Passengers were in a hurry to disembark as it was already lunchtime. The group proceeded to SSCT Campus to have one final look at the site where the groundbreaking for the new school building would take place.

The municipality of Del Carmen will again take center stage as another education-focused project will be constructed for secondary students of SSCT. In 2013, digital literacy for children and youth had been enhanced with PLDT’s donation of personal computers to the Computer Training Education Center (CTEC) in Del Carmen.  The project is in transition to become the Tech4Ed Prorgram- which uses information technology (IT) to combat poverty in Siargao.

The Philippine Long Distance Telephone (PLDT) also participated in the Siargao It Up program of the Metro Pacific Investment Corporation (MPIC). The undertaking included underwater clean up, formation of the Junior Environmental Scouts and Run for the Mangrove Event.

PLDT InfoTeach Outreach Program participated by the nine municipalities of Siargao Islands has trained 300 high school students and teachers in Del Carmen. The training focused on teachers’ appreciation of technology to improve teaching skills. The program with support from PLDT was spearheaded by the municipality of Del Carmen led by Mayor Alfredo M. Coro II.

Private and public partnership in bringing social development is possible in Siargao. This was shown by the people of the island, as they eagerly joined with others in the community during the groundbreaking for the two-classroom school building in Del Carmen. (PBSP/PIA-Caraga)

SurSur health office airs concern over high number of dog bite cases

By Greg Tataro Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Nov. 24 (PIA) – The Provincial Health Office (PHO) here has raised concern over the alarming number of cases of animal bites especially dogs.

Dr. Eric Montesclaros, PHO chief, reported last week before capitol employees that dog bites had been posted at 732 province-wide with Tandag City topping the list at 163, also being tailed by Bislig at 147.

However, he said that 93.44 percent of the victims or 684 had been given full course of tissue culture vaccine (TCV).

No case of rabies was mentioned despite the high incidence of such animal bites.

On the other hand, Dr. Montesclaros indicated that concerned authorities had to step up campaign efforts to teach pet lovers on how to be responsible pet owners.

Meanwhile, Dr. Gervacio Yparraguirre, provincial veterinary officer, said campaign on responsible pet ownership in cooperation with their counterparts at the municipal and city levels had always been all year round.

The provincial vet chief likewise pointed out that anti-rabies vaccination had been continuously implemented province-wide.

On the part of Tandag City, Dr. Zeny Gambe, city vet officer, confirmed the high incidence of dog bites, explaining that one factor could have also been the accessibility of this area to the animal bite center.  Thus, she stressed that data had to be clarified.

Nonetheless, Gambe agreed that campaign on responsible pet ownership should be intensified.

The city vet chief also bared that the local government unit (LGU) under Mayor Roxanne Pimentel had always been active in carrying out a regular anti-rabies vaccination especially during times of “barangay civic action program.” (NGBT/Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

News Feature: Aggie chief turns over P216 Million agri support to Caraga

By Emmylou Presilda

Walk the talk.

Fulfilling its commitment to the agriculture sector, Secretary Proceso J. Alcala of the Department of Agriculture (DA) once again turned over various agri support to Caraga Region amounting P216 Million as he graced the farmers forum and techno clinic attended by more than a thousand participants held in one of the University Gyms in Butuan City on Monday, November 23.

These include the P208 Million worth of Farm to Market Road Subprojects under the Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP).  The five FMRs with Notice to Proceed from the project is aimed at providing infrastructure support to the development of agri enterprise such as Abaca for Santiago and Kitcharao in Agusan del Norte and Rubber Production and Marketing in Agusan del Sur.

“The DA is committed to provide resilient and quality roads for our farmers by providing concreted FMR that can withstand any weather conditions ensuring the flow of goods from farm to the market,”  Secretary Alcala said.

Alcala added that FMR concreting only started during the Aquino administration who’s clear instruction is to take care of the needs of the farmers.  With that, Alcala pushed for the implementation of the said guideline to ensure sustainability of such project helping the farmers gain the optimum benefit of DA’s infra interventions.

Aside from the support from DA-PRDP, Alcala also turned over farm equipments amounting to P7.8 Million such as Rice Reaper, Corn Picker, and Hand Tractor to various farmers’ associations and cooperatives.  Said equipment are in support to the mechanization program of the department. 

In addition, DA Caraga regional director Edna Mabeza also prepared agricultural goodies for farmers to take home after the one-day event where six carabaos with implements, bags of registered rice seeds and open-pollinated variety (OPV) corn seeds are raffled off while every farmer received assorted vegetable seeds for their household gulayan project.  (DA-13/PIA-Caraga)

Monday, November 23, 2015

Butuan preschoolers enjoy books and toys at city library

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 23 (PIA) – In time with the National Children’s Month celebration, the preschoolers together with their parents/guardians and teachers gathered and visited on Friday the city library here and enjoyed reading books and playing toys.

For the said celebration, the City Social Welfare and Development (CSWD) spearheaded several activities like day camp, literary and musical contest and outdoor events that promote and develop children’s social, emotional, language, physical, and cognitive aspects.

According to Fe Labitad, day care worker of GAD Resource and Learning Day Care Center here, the preschoolers’ visit at the city library featured exploration, exposure, experience and discovery as a way of learning, enabling them to develop confidence, creativity, literacy, art and critical thinking.

“We are very happy to bring our children here at the library so they can read a lot of books, see pictures and play with the available toys. Their genuine smiles and laughter during the puppet show were priceless,” expressed Labitad.

City librarian Luz Dumanon welcomed all the preschoolers, parents and teachers and toured them inside the library. She also let the children witness the dance presentation of a mascot named “Book-Book.”

“Our city library has a room for you children where you can read, see pictures and videos of stories and play with toys as well. Do come here more often and you are always welcome,” remarked Dumanon.

Also, Maria Ruth Jugao, officer-in-charge of the Butuan CSWD encouraged the preschoolers from the different Day Care Centers to give more time for reading aside from playing. She further emphasized that children must be patient in doing school researches and to use books instead of relying in technology.

“Every time you (children) are inside the library, you should respect others who are reading silently and never make noise. The technology may be advanced but we should all remember that books are still more useful and it give us the value of patience in looking/finding for the answers to our school researches,” stressed Jugao.

Meanwhile, representing regional director Abner Caga of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga, deputy regional director Fryan Abkilan bared that the aim of the National Children’s Month is to recognize Filipino children as the most valuable assets of the nation and their vital role in nation-building.

“In every society, there is much emphasis placed on the care and proper welfare of children. This is because children are obviously the hope of the future. Without them, the future of any society or nation would be questionable. After all, who would take over the reins of leadership if not the very same children that we have today? They are the ones that will continue our traditions or start new ones. Hopefully, they will find solutions to problems that we have been unable to master… There is so much that reading children’s stories aloud to our kids can do for them. Let’s start reading together today!” expressed Abkilan. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Burgos police station joins Drug Prevention and Control week celebration

SIARGAO ISLAND, Surigao del Norte, Nov. 23 (PIA) – The Municipal Police Station (MPS) of Burgos, this province joins the Drug Prevention and Control Week celebration from November 15-21, 2015.

This year’s celebration is anchored on the theme, “Let’s develop Our Lives, Our Commitment, Our Identities without drugs.”

As part of the week-long celebration, the MPS of Burgos in coordination with the Burgos Central Elementary School conducted an Anti-Illegal Drugs Symposium to the pupils of the said school.

Burgos MPS officer in-charge Police Insp.  Jerome M. Villegas, who is the resource speaker of the activity, emphasized the negative effects of illegal drugs and encouraged the pupils to avoid involving in drug abuse and its related activities. (SDR/Burgos-MPS/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

DOST Caraga conducts orientation on Halal Food guidelines

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 23 (PIA) - In response to the needs of local food processors/producers and food establishments on Halal awareness as well as its guidelines based on international standards, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Caraga is continually conducting various related activities which will enable processors to appreciate and at all times consider Halal guidelines in its operations.

Through the efforts of the Provincial Science and Technology Center - Agusan del Norte, an Orientation on the General Guidelines on Halal Food Using the Standards and Metrology Institute for Islamic Countries (SMIIC) is scheduled on November 23. This will be held at the function hall of DOST Caraga, CSU Campus, Ampayon, Butuan City.

The event aims to provide an avenue for the local food processors to be able to understand and adapt the internationally accepted standards in the preparation of halal foods.

The activity will be attended by local food processors, regional line agencies, and, and private food establishments in the region. (DOST-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Cebuano News: Corn Quality Achiever’s Award nakuha sa Agusan del Norte

Ni Ricellen Retiquez

BUTUANCITY, Nob. 23 (PIA) - Ang probinsya sa Agusan del Norte pinaagi sa Provincial Agriculturist Office (PAO), nakadawat og 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 og award nga proyekto kantidad og 3M pesos ug plake.

Nakuha usab ni Oscar Tuyor, Provincial Agriculturist II ang pasidungog isip usa sa lima ka outstanding Provincial Corn Coordinator. Mapasalamaton siyang 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 organikong abono. (2) pre/post-harvest facility support, dinhi makita ang mga programa/suporta sa probinsya sa hisgotanang 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 lider nga mag-uuma ug sa mga Agricultural 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 lider sa mag-uuma ug sa mga Agricultural Extension Workers sa National Corn Congress.

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

Friday, November 20, 2014

PSA 13 announces GRDP orientation for Caraga stakeholders

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 20 (PIA) - The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Regional Statistical Service Office No. 13 will conduct an orientation about the Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) for Caraga stakeholders on November 27, 2015 at Patria's Inn and Restobar, Montilla Boulevard, this city.

The activity aims to increase the awareness of the stakeholders regarding the importance of GRDP; encourage support in the submission of data as inputs in the formulation of annual regional development plans; and in preparation of annual socio-economic development reports.

The orientation, which is free of charge, will also highlight the identification of sectors/industries in terms of investment promotion and support services, as well as the tools/mechanisms used in the monitoring of the performance of the regional economy. (PSA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

New school building soon to rise in Siargao Island

By Danny Escabarte

DEL CARMEN, Surigao del Norte, Nov. 20 (PIA) - Students and residents of Del Carmen in Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte cannot hide their joy and excitement during the groundbreaking event held November 05, 2015 at the campus of Surigao State College of Technology (SSCT) here.

A one-storey two-classroom school building will soon rise in this part of the island.  The Philippine Long Distance Telephone (PLDT) company has bankrolled the construction of the new school building that will house high school students who shared classroom space among college students of the school.

The classroom construction project will be implemented by the Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP) in partnership with the administration of SSCT and the Parents Teachers Employees Association or PTEA.

In her speech before parents, teachers and students of SSCT, Evelyn M. Del Rosario- PLDT Head /Consultant for Community Relations emphasized the value of education in shaping the future of children in this island. “It is heartwarming to know that you are taking active involvement and participation in this undertaking. Your presence show how much value you put to education for the children in this part of the archipelago. Your presence already defines your commitment in addressing education issues and concerns that your province faces,” Del Rosario stressed.

“PLDT who is a member company of PBSP is a strong corporate partner supporting government’s efforts to respond to classroom needs across the country.  The implementation of K to 12 with its worthy intention of preparing our children and youth to be better and productive citizens of this country, has led to the realization of the different stakeholders of the enormous needs particularly in terms infrastructure,” she added.

Included in the construction package were 90 student chairs, two teacher’s tables, two teacher’s chairs and two blackboards. Present to grace the event were Del Carmen mayor Alfredo M. Corro II, PBSP Mindanao regional manager Garibaldi Alvin Enriquez, SSCT campus director Dr. Carlos Donoso and Randy Petallo- PTEA president.

Students and stakeholders were on hand to witness the groundbreaking event, made memorable with the blessing given by Rev. Fr. Manuel Quiban, DCS, parish priest of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Del Carmen, Siargao Island. (PBSP/PIA-Caraga)

DTI AgSur monitors sale of Christmas lights

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur, Nov. 20 (PIA) – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Agusan del Sur Provincial Office has monitored 10 business establishments selling Christmas lights in San Francisco town, this province.

During the monitoring, it was noted that the Christmas lights offered for sale by these establishments bear the Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) stickers with the corresponding ICC certificates.

The monitoring was done to ensure that uncertified Christmas lights will not proliferate in the market. Staff from the Municipal Market and License office representing the Local Price Coordinating Council of San Francisco joined the DTI monitoring team.

Before the distribution to retail outlets, Christmas lights shall first passed the mandatory safety tests conducted by the Bureau of Philippine Standards, once successfully complied with standard requirements, a corresponding ICC certificate and ICC sticker will be issued.

In San Francisco, the brands that are commonly sold in the market are North Star, Yuletide Fantasy and Mabuhay. These are also found in the list of the issued valid import Commodity Clearance Certificates.

For this year, Christmas lights/lighting chains valid for selling are only those with ICC Certificates issued from January 2013 up to the present.

DTI Agusan del Sur will continue its monitoring on Christmas lights in Bayugan City, Esperanza, Trento, Sta. Josefa, Bunawan, Rosario, Talacogon and San Francisco in November to December this year.

The monitoring activities aim to protect consumers from hazards due to use of substandard products which may cause damage loss of property or life. (DTI-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Cebuano News: Konsultasyon sa barangay ug panambay gipahigayon sa Gigaquit

Ni Mary Jul Escalante

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Nob. 20 (PIA) – Malampuson nga gipahigayon ang barangay konsultasyon didto sa barangay Mahanub ug ang Panambay sa Barangay didto sa sitio Palilihan kagahapon, Nobyembre 19, 2015 didto sa mga nasangpit nga lugar sakop sa munisipyo sa Gigaquit ning lalawigan.

Ang maong kalihukan gipangulohan mismo ni Gobernador Sol F. Matugas mibisita sa Brgy. uban nila Cong. Francisco T. Matugas, Vice Governor Arturo Carlos Egay, Jr, Board Member Mamerto Galanida, ug sa Team Capitol.

Sa iyang mensahe nagpasalamat og dako ang Kapitan sa brgy. Mahanub nga si Abundio Amarille sa panahon nga gigahin sa gobernador ug ilabina ang proyekto nga road concreting sa maong barangay kantidad 10 milyones ka pesos.

Atol sa maong kalihukan ubay-ubay ang mga hangyo ang giaprobahan sa gobernador sama sa pagsemento sa pathway sa Mahanub Elem. School, pagtukod ug Mahanub Women Center, pag-ayo sa Day Care Center, mga kahimanan sa Health Center ug uban pa.

Mipdayag usab sa ilang dakong kalipay ang mga senior citizen ug mga kababainhan sa maong barangay sa pagbisita sa gobernador ug gihatagan sila og sayo nga pinaskuhan kantidad P10,000 pesos.

Sa susamang adlaw mitungas ang gobernador sa halayong bukid sa Mahanub nga mao ang Sitio Palilihan aron gayod makita ug masinati personal ang mga residenteng mamanwa nga nanimuyo sa maong bukid dala sa gobernador ang serbisyo sa panambay para sa mga mamanwa ug ang pag apod apod og mga foodpacks.

Gipaabot sa maong mga residente ang ilang mga yangungo sama sa maayong puy-anan, tribal hall, health center ug uban pa nga mga panginahanlanon sa ilang komunidad. (SDR/PIC-SdN/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Thursday, November 19, 2015

PIA Caraga supports storytelling to children in celebration of the 2015 National Children’s Month

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 19 (PIA) – In line with this year’s National Children’s Month celebration, the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga supports various activities in the Day Care centers which include telling of stories (storytelling) to children.

According to PIA Caraga regional director Abner Caga, children love to hear stories and are fast-learners. Building strong adult-child relationships in order to nurture attachment is a primary goal for infant-toddler caregivers.

“One of the best ways that we can increase attachment as well as language and literacy learning is by reading books aloud to young children and telling them stories. By doing that, our children are able to enhance their reading, writing, speaking and listening skills,” emphasized Caga.

Caga also expressed his warm thanks to day care worker Fe Labitad of GAD Learning and Resource Day Care Center for inviting him as one of the honored guest speakers and inspire the children during the preschoolers’ library time on November 20, 2015 at the City Library here.

Said activity will feature exploration, exposure, experience and discovery as a way of learning, enabling them to develop confidence, creativity, literacy, art and critical thinking.

Meanwhile, Labitad bared that the City Social Welfare and Development (CSWD) is spearheading the conduct of various creative activities like day camp, literary musical contest and outdoor activities that promote and develop children’s social, emotional, language, physical and cognitive. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

NRCO-DOLE Caraga distributes cookery starter kits to beneficiaries

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 19 (PIA) – The National Reintegration Center for OFWs (NRCO) with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Caraga recently distributed cookery starter kits to some 12 distressed women Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) for the fourth quarter of 2015 held at the DOLE Caraga multi-purpose hall, this city.

Nancy Jacinto, labor and employment officer of NRCO Caraga bared that the cookery starter kits is a way of livelihood assistance to the 12 beneficiaries under the ‘Balik Pinay, Balik Hanapbuhay’ Program of the agency.

“The cookery starter kits are worth P10,000.00 for each beneficiary which include their training on how to cook eight different recipes – from baked food, cakes, and frosting, among others. The said starter kits comprised the following: one kilo salt; one pack of dry yeast; one single burner stove with regulator and hose; one gasolito; one sack of all-purpose flour; one electric hand mixer; one baking tin; one kilo white sugar; and one-half kilo of lard or shortening,” disclosed Jacinto.

Feluzviminda Tersona, one of the beneficiaries from this city remarked that the NRCO-DOLE has helped her cope with life together with her family after her contract in Oman, Middle East was preterminated due to reported conflict in the area.

“The cookery skills training which we recently participated is of great help to us. It is an adding knowledge that also gave us hope that we can still start our livelihood here and move on. I will do everything for my family and with this starter kits that the NRCO-DOLE has granted me will help me from making the cooking/baking easier,” expressed Tersona.

The Balik Pinay! Balik Hanapbuhay! Program was duly created in 2011 to enable women OFW returnees to start and to operate livelihood undertaking for self-employment. The Program consists of a livelihood skills training and the distribution of the starter kits. In 2013, through the Administrative Order 333, the Program was expanded to include women OFWs in the Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos Resource Centers (MWOFRC) in POLOs. In four years, the Program has reached more than 4,000 beneficiaries who have established their own business or used the gained skills for employment.

The eligible beneficiaries of the Program are returning women OFWs while priority is given to women OFWs who are displaced by the hostilities and conflicts in their host country, or victims of illegal recruitment and trafficking and other distressed and displaced women household service workers. (JPG/PIA-Caraga) 

Lanao del Norte guv encourages IOs to help promote tourism, investments in Mindanao

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 19 (PIA) – “Focus on the good news. In Lanao del Norte, our information officers are very strong in promoting national activities… If people are not afraid of going in Lanao del Norte, then they shouldn’t be scared because they will miss economic opportunities wherein it’s a first come first serve.. and it is only for those who are not scared to come and invest.”

This was the statement stressed by Lanao del Norte Governor Mohamad Khalid Dimaporo during the recently concluded 13th Mindanao Communicators Network (MindaComNet) Congress held in Cagayan de Oro City.

“The 13th MindaComNet Congress is a very well attended event. I believe your active participation will help different government agencies come up with innovations and strategies that will promote Mindanao and be known that it is worth-investing,” Dimaporo remarked.

The said official also acknowledged the efforts of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) as being one of the forefront agencies in changing the image of Mindanao.

Dimaporo further emphasized that businessmen always have that worries of taking risks as well as their security. “It’s only a perception and it’s one of our duty to change that perception or mindset. Don’t believe the negative news that you’ve been seeing in the television or newspaper, or heard over the radio. Based on statistics, there are actually higher number of crimes reported in Manila or in other parts of the country than in Mindanao,” he said.

“It’s a matter of getting the attention of our investors and showing them that there is nothing to be scared of because there are lots of beautiful things to be seen and appreciated in our place here in Mindanao,” added Dimaporo.

The good governor also reiterated that there is more to come for Mindanao and its people.

“Come and take a chance in Mindanao. Look at the proper investment opportunities,” underscored Dimaporo. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Dengue cases in Caraga region down by 48%

By Daisy Jane M. Apit

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 19 (PIA) - Dengue cases in Caraga region dropped by 48% from January 1 to October 24 this year with 3,540 cases and 25 deaths recorded compared with last year’s same time period with 6,827 cases and 44 deaths, the Department of Health (DOH) - Caraga reported.

Most of the cases were recorded in Surigao del Sur at 704, followed by Butuan City with 676 cases, Agusan del Sur with 645 cases, Surigao City with 341 cases, Agusan del Norte with 307 cases, Bayugan City with 262 cases, Surigao del Norte with 246 cases, Bislig City with 110 cases, Cabadbaran City with 105 cases. Then, Tandag City with 73 and Dinagat Islands’ 71 cases.

Of these cases, 54% were males and 38% belonged to 0 to 10 years age group according to records from the Regional Epidemiology Surveillance Unit (RESU) of the DOH 13.

DOH-Caraga headed by Dr. Jose Llacuna emphasized that the best way to eradicate this problem is by searching and destroying mosquito breeding places and be updated to the dengue status of each barangay in the locality. (DJA/PIA-Caraga)

Bislig City hosts global event for men

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 19 (PIA) - Caraga Region will spearhead the nation in celebrating International Men’s (IMD) day today.

Bislig City is the host for the said momentous event that is created to highlight the importance of men's contributions not only in the household but in the community where they live and their critical roles and responsibilities to attain better health nutrition for mothers, newborn and children.

Commission on Population (POPCOM) Caraga regional director Alexander A. Makinano pointed-out that the event shall highlight not only the various roles, contributions and achievements of men and husbands in the family and in the community but also equal partners of women.

"This will definitely educate husbands on gender relations, and promote gender equality which I hoped that through this event, the increasing issue on Violence Against Women and Children will be totally reduced," Makinano added.

He disclosed that LGU Bislig will be conducting various activities by merging the central theme of the IMD celebration with that of the advocacy of POPCOM as concretized in the Kalalakihang Tumutugon sa Responsibilidad at Obligasyon sa Kalusugan ng Ina at Pamilya (KATROPA) Modules.

To recall, Caraga Regional Development Council approved the call of the Regional Population Executive Board (RPEB) for the declaration of November 19, 2014 and every year thereafter as International Men's Day with the passage of RDC ExeCom Resolution No.6, series of 2014.

The date for the celebration is the same date celebrated by many other countries which for a moment pause to give way and honor for the men to celebrate and highlight their contributions towards the attainment among others, of a healthy lifestyle and involvement in responsible parenting. (POPCOM-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Surigao Norte town conducts responsible parenting convergence

By John Glenn Platil

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Nov. 19 (PIA) – The local government unit of Mainit, this province conducted on Wednesday, November 18, 2015 a one-day convergence on responsible parenting cum mass mobilization for responsible parenthood and family health.

The one-day activity aims to raise awareness on responsible parenting, reproductive health law and maternal health.

Included in the discussion were the Reproductive Health (RH) Law, safe sex methods for every consenting adult to avoid the prevalence of AIDS, abortion, and other communicable diseases, innovative ways and best practices like the use of condom, family planning, sex education, child care, and maternal health.

The activity was led by mayor Ramon Mondano, vice mayor Crisanta Mondano and participated by barangay health workers, municipal and barangay officials and residents of the said municipality. (SDR/PGO-SdN/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

NCAC conducts Consumer Awareness Seminar in AgSur

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur, Nov. 19 (PIA) - "Practice 3Rs (Reduce, Reuse and Recycle) of Ecological Solid Waste Management for this is one of the ways the people should do to mitigate the ill-effects of climate change."

This was the pledged of the consumers who participated in the Consumer Education Seminar organized by the National Consumer Affairs Council on October 23, 2015 in San Francisco, Agusan del Sur in celebration of the Consumer Welfare Month.

Velma M. Lim of the National Consumer Affairs Council (NCAC) emphasized that everyone has the right to a healthy environment, thus everyone should also commit to care for the natural resources. In her discussion on Climate Change Adaptation, she urged the participants to affix their signatures on the Pledge of Commitment wall and work on it.

She mentioned that everyone can make a difference. "Practice saving the electricity, plant trees, maximize the use of public transport system, recycle as it helps save natural resources, generate as little as trash as possible because trash in landfill sites emit large quantities of methane, and if burned, carbon dioxide is released, reduce on the use of non-renewable sources of energy and increase the use of renewable energy sources such as solar, hydro, and wind energy, consume lest share more and live simply," she said.

Representatives from the local government units in the province, barangay officials, media groups, consumer organizations members 4P's beneficiaries, senior citizens, representatives from the national government agencies and the academe attended the activity.

NCAC is the lead sponsor of the Consumer Welfare Month Celebration this year with the theme: "Consumer Protection in the ASEAN Economic Community."

The seminar was one of the activities conducted in celebration of the Consumer Welfare Month. Other activities like Consumer Quiz Bowl, Symposium to Secondary School, Question and Answer at the Flag Raising Ceremony in the Provincial Government and KBP Hour, Briefing on Price Act were also conducted to increase awareness on consumerism. (DTI-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Cebuano News: Konsultasyon sa barangay ug panambay gipahigayon sa Gigaquit

Ni Mary Jul Escalante

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Nob. 20 (PIA) – Malampuson nga gipahigayon ang barangay konsultasyon didto sa barangay Mahanub ug ang Panambay sa Barangay didto sa sitio Palilihan kagahapon, Nobyembre 19, 2015 didto sa mga nasangpit nga lugar sakop sa munisipyo sa Gigaquit ning lalawigan.

Ang maong kalihukan gipangulohan mismo ni Gobernador Sol F. Matugas mibisita sa Brgy. uban nila Cong. Francisco T. Matugas, Vice Governor Arturo Carlos Egay, Jr, Board Member Mamerto Galanida, ug sa Team Capitol.

Sa iyang mensahe nagpasalamat og dako ang Kapitan sa brgy. Mahanub nga si Abundio Amarille sa panahon nga gigahin sa gobernador ug ilabina ang proyekto nga road concreting sa maong barangay kantidad 10 milyones ka pesos.

Atol sa maong kalihukan ubay-ubay ang mga hangyo ang giaprobahan sa gobernador sama sa pagsemento sa pathway sa Mahanub Elem. School, pagtukod ug Mahanub Women Center, pag-ayo sa Day Care Center, mga kahimanan sa Health Center ug uban pa.

Mipdayag usab sa ilang dakong kalipay ang mga senior citizen ug mga kababainhan sa maong barangay sa pagbisita sa gobernador ug gihatagan sila og sayo nga pinaskuhan kantidad P10,000 pesos.

Sa susamang adlaw mitungas ang gobernador sa halayong bukid sa Mahanub nga mao ang Sitio Palilihan aron gayod makita ug masinati personal ang mga residenteng mamanwa nga nanimuyo sa maong bukid dala sa gobernador ang serbisyo sa panambay para sa mga mamanwa ug ang pag apod apod og mga foodpacks.

Gipaabot sa maong mga residente ang ilang mga yangungo sama sa maayong puy-anan, tribal hall, health center ug uban pa nga mga panginahanlanon sa ilang komunidad. (SDR/PIC-SdN/PIA-Surigao del Norte)