(PAGASA 24-HOUR PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST as of Wednesday, 09 October 2024) At 3:00 AM today, a Low Pressure Area (LPA) was estimated based on all available data at 165 km West Northwest of Coron, Palawan (12.3N, 118.7E) It is embedded along the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) affecting Southern Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. 𝗙𝗒π—₯π—˜π—–π—”π—¦π—§ π—ͺπ—˜π—”π—§π—›π—˜π—₯ π—–π—’π—‘π——π—œπ—§π—œπ—’π—‘: Butuan City, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Norte and Surigao del Sur will experience partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms due to ITCZ. Possible flash floods or landslides during severe thunderstorms. 𝗙𝗒π—₯π—˜π—–π—”π—¦π—§ π—ͺπ—œπ—‘π—— 𝗔𝗑𝗗 π—–π—’π—”π—¦π—§π—”π—Ÿ π—ͺπ—”π—§π—˜π—₯ π—–π—’π—‘π——π—œπ—§π—œπ—’π—‘: Light to moderate winds coming from Southwest to West will prevail with slight to moderate seas (0.6 to 2.5 meters).


Monday, February 15, 2016


PSA-AgNor to launch CRVS in Butuan

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 15 (PIA) – The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Agusan del Norte will be launching the Civil Registration and Vital Statistics Decade (CRVS) on February 19, 2016 at their provincial office here.

According to Reynelo Magno, PSA Agusan del Norte provincial statistics officer, as the agency mandated by Republic Act No. 10625 to carry out, enforce and administer vicil registration functions in the country, shall lead all relevant activities that seek to uphold the continuous and compulsory recording of births, death, marriages and other acts and events concerning the status of persons; enhance awareness on the importance of civil registry documents; and produce accurate, complete and updated vital statistics.

“President Benigno S. Aquino III recently signed Proclamation No. 1106 which declared the years 2016-2024 as Civil Registration and Vital Statistics Decade (CRVS). Said procalamtion is a concrete manifestation of the Philippine government’s support to the outcome of the Ministerial Conference on CRVS in Asia and the Pacific held in November 2014 in Bangkok, Thailand,” bared Magno.

It was also learned that the Philippines also agreed to adopt the Ministerial Declaration to “Get Everyone in the Picture” in Asia and the Pacific. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)


Diocese of Butuan, partners unite for tree planting activity in AgSur

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 15 (PIA) – As part of the preparation for the Golden Jubilee celebration, the Diocese of Butuan together with partners from government agencies and non-government organizations spearheaded on Saturday the tree planting activity at Barangay Calaitan in Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur.

According to Rev. Fr. Stephen Brongcano, the tree planting activity which is part of the Golden Jubilee celebration is intended to contribute to environmental welfare and at the same time concretize Jesus Christ's teachings as embodied in Pope Francis’ Laudato Si.

Brongcano added that the activity is also a quick response to the call to take good care of the environment and initiate different activities that will benefit the majority.

Said event started with a liturgy of the word and blessing of seedlings led by Butuan Bishop Rev. Fr. Juan de Dios Pueblos. He also briefed the participants on the significance of the celebration and the tree planting as the highlight.

Diocese of Butuan vice chancellor Fr. Michael Abellanosa, also added that other than the tree planting, medical and dental missions, fun run and panaw-duaw (visit to all parishes) are some of the major events of the Golden Jubilee celebration of the Diocese.

Anchored on this year's Golden Jubilee theme, "Bugkoson ang mga Matoohong Katawhan Isip Masalmotong Simbahan," Abellanosa emphasized that the tree planting is also aimed to call on people to participate in the greening programs and contribute to making a better and conducive place to live and a wholistic well-being. "This undertaking is just one of the many approaches in translating the gospel to be more realistic and meaningful," he said.

“Be reminded that God created everything and as humans we are entrusted to render time and efforts to care/nurture the environment. I am encouraging everyone that as stewards of these gifts of nature, we may rediscover the joy of God's love especially in this extraordinary Holy Year of Mercy,” remarked Abellanosa.

Also, barangay captain Raquel Macfe of Brgy. Calaitan, Bayugan City expressed her sincere gratitude for the presence of individuals who actively participated in the tree planting activity. "In behalf of the community members of this barangay, I would like to thank you all and the organizers for choosing our locality to be the recipient of this undertaking. We will ensure the proper growth of these mahogany seedlings to achieve the purpose for a greener environment," she said.

Meanwhile, Alejandra Boiser, Community Environment and Natural Resources Officer (CENRO)-Bayugan City said that they have prepared around 500 mahogany seedlings intended for the tree planting activity in the said barangay. "Two of the many ways to mitigate the negative effects of climate change are through protection and rehabilitation. This tree planting is very timely because it is in this area that new roads will be opened and that landslides of mountainous areas may be avoided," she added. (VLG/DJA/JPG/PIA-Caraga)


75IB chief mourns fallen soldier

By Nida Grace B. Tranquilan

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Feb. 15 (PIA) –Commanding officer Lt. Col. Haron Akaz of 75th Infantry Battalion, 402nd Brigade, Phil. Army based in Bislig City expressed his grief over the untimely and unxpected passing of one his soldiers who was killed in an encounter with New People’s Army (NPA) rebels around 11:30 p.m., Feb. 12 in Brgy. Sta. Fe, Tagbina, Surigao del Sur. An NPA rebel was also killed during the incident, it was learned.

”We are saddened that one of our brothers paid the ultimate sacrifice for protecting the locals of Tagbina town. Likewise, we are also saddened that another NPA was killed because of their futile struggle and wrong idealism,” said Akaz.

Pursuit operations have continued against the 10 fully armed NPA guerillas who fled after a five-minute firefight at the compound of Sumitomo Fruits Corp. (SUMIFRO) Farm in brgy. Sta. Fe. The government troops recovered one improvised explosive device (IED) with blasting cap and detonating chord and one caliber .45 pistol from the NPA. Extortion letters and some subversive documents were also discovered from the killed rebel.

The latest encounter between the government troops and NPA bandits in the said town was the result of the reports from the concerned civilians who reported to the 75th IB that the NPAs threatened to burn the equipment of SUMIFRO if they do not give extortion money to them.

“We condemn the NPA for their extortion activities. They should put an end to these kind terrorist activities especially that their victims are innocent hardworking farmers and lumads," he said.

“It is very evident that this terrorist group (NPA) does not abide by the Comprehensive Agreement in Respect to Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHIHL) for their continuous manufacture and use of IEDs," Akaz added.

Meanwhile, earlier on the same day another report received that the newly deployed troops under the 16th IB led by Lt. Col. Andres Ferrer while conducting security patrol at the vicinity of Mabahin-Matho Complex of Cortes town this province reportedly encountered an undetermined number of fully armed men. The said incident resulted to the recovery of an IED with one blasting cap while it is believed that several NPAs were wounded and killed after the government troops discovered several blood stains from the NPAs’ position. (NGBT/PIA-Surigao del Sur)


Feature: Discover the versatility of potatoes

By Divorah V. Aguila

Potatoes are one of the most popular vegetables abundant throughout the year.  They are nutritious, easy to prepare, and very versatile.

A potato has approximately the same energy value as bread, but it is a far better balanced food than bread.  Potatoes are rich in complex carbohydrates which supply energy.  One serving of boiled potato, about 100 grams (g) edible portion, has about 62 calories, 1.7 g protein, 34 milligrams (mg) calcium, 44 mg phosphorus and 24 mg vitamin C.  Since potatoes are starchy foods, they put less work on the kidneys. That same potato has about 5 grams of fiber, which is important for a healthy digestive tract.

Potatoes contain more potassium than any other fresh vegetable, even more than bananas. One potato (100 g) has almost 900 mg of potassium, which is about 20% of what we need every day. Potassium is important for body growth and cell maintenance.  It is also an electrolyte that helps balance the fluids in the body, which is important for normal blood pressure.

Potatoes also contain substantial amounts of vitamins C and B6, which are vital for blood clotting, wound healing, strong immune system, normal nervous system function and for converting food to energy.

When selecting………..

When selecting potatoes, make sure they are smooth, shallow-­eyed, and reasonably unblemished.  Avoid the extra large potato, as it may have a hollow or pithy center. Potatoes with a slightly green color are sunburned and may have developed a bitter taste.  When choosing potatoes, be sure they are firm and smooth.  Softness, a green tinge, or wrinkly skin may indicate a potato that is past its prime.

When storing ……….

Store potatoes in a cool and dry place.  Sunlight causes the skin to turn green.  If this occurs, the skin must be peeled off before consuming because of its bitter taste.  Most of the nutrients are contained right below the skin, so avoid peeling when possible.

When preparing …………

Before cooking potatoes, they should be thoroughly washed with clean tap water and scrubbed lightly.  Any sprouts or eyes growing from the potato should be cut. The skin can be removed or left on depending on use.

When cooking ……….

Potatoes are easy to cook.  Common methods include boiling, baking, microwaving, frying and grilling.  Potatoes can also be mashed with a little non-fat milk, or used in a potato salad.

Consuming baked and grilled potatoes with the skin left on provides the most nutrients.

Potatoes have a bland flavor, so they can be used frequently in meals. It is best to cook potatoes on a low heat, if possible.  If they are not baked, they should be cooked in a vapor-sealed vessel to retain their goodness.

To bake, drop them first in very hot water to heat them, and then rub them with oil to keep their skins from getting too hard during baking and to make them more digestible.

Before serving baked potatoes, they may be cut in half, scooped out, and mashed with butter or a little grated cheese, and then garnished with parsley or chives.  You may also take plain, baked potatoes by splitting them open, and serve with a Roquefort, cream, and chive dressing.

While a plain potato with the skin intact is very good for you, potatoes can have an evil side. French fries and potato chips are full of fat, salt and calories and a baked potato can go from good to bad when you add bacon, cheese and a big glop of sour cream. Keep your baked potato healthy by topping it with some lycopene-rich salsa, or use a dab of low-fat sour cream.

Here are some more healthy potato tips:

·       Include potatoes in your variety of daily colorful fruits and vegetables.

·       Start a vegetable garden and plant potatoes - they are easy to grow.

·       Wash and poke holes in a raw potato and microwave for about four minutes for a fast, tasty low-calorie snack.

·       Add cut-up boiled potatoes to stews and vegetable soups.

·       Wrap baking potatoes in foil and put them on the grill and add to a summer meal.

·       Boil and mash potatoes for an all-time favorite dish.

·       Slice potatoes into strips, season, and bake in the oven for healthy, homemade French fries.

For more information on food and nutrition, contact:  Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department of Science and Technology, General Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City; Telephone/ Fax Nos: 837-2934 or 837-3164; Direct Line:839-1839; DOST Trunk Line: 837-2071-82 local 2296 or 2284; e-mail: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph or at mar_v_c@yahoo.com; FNRI-DOST website: http://www.fnri.dost.gov.ph.  Like our Facebook page at facebook.com/FNRI.DOST or follow our Twitter account at twitter.com/FNRI_DOST. (FNRI-DOST S&T Media Service/PIA-Caraga)


Feature: Facts about whole grain

By Imelda A. Agdeppa

Do you ever wonder why most health-conscious people choose whole grain foods? Here are some facts about whole grains.

Whole grains are cereals, which retain the bran, the hard, outer layer of the grain. It also contains the germ, the smallest part of the grain as well as the endosperm, the main part of the grain. Common whole grain products include oatmeal, popcorn, brown rice, whole-wheat flour and whole wheat bread.

Typical whole grain cereal foods are low in saturated fats but are sources of polyunsaturated fats, including omega 3 linolenic acid, which is believed to be good for the heart.  Whole grains are also excellent sources of fiber, which provides important health benefits, from preventing gastrointestinal disorders to promoting normal bowel. These products also promote satiety, help control serum cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Whole grains have both soluble and insoluble fibers. But not all whole grains are good sources of fiber. Whole wheat contains the highest amount of fiber among the whole grains. Brown rice contains the least amount of fiber. The common vitamins present in the whole grains are the B-complex vitamins, including folate, which is essential in the formation of all body cells.

Whole grains are also good sources of many minerals, including iron, magnesium, copper, phosphorus and zinc, which are essential to our health. They also have antioxidants, including vitamin E and selenium, as well as phytochemicals including flavonoids and phytic acid which can prevent coronary heart disease, digestive system disease, diabetes, obesity and many different types of cancer.

A study conducted by United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Human Nutrition Research Center reported that those who consumed at least three 1-ounce-equivalent servings of whole grain foods per day were less likely to have the “metabolic syndrome”. This is a condition marked by a combination of abdominal obesity, high triglycerides, low High Density Lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, high blood pressure, and poor blood sugar control—all of which increase the risk for diabetes and heart disease.

How would you know if a whole grain product is really “whole”? The only way is to check the label or the ingredient list. If it doesn’t say “whole grain” or “whole wheat”, it’s not the real thing. Don't be misled by the package’s picture, or descriptive names because they do not necessarily mean whole grain goodness. Take time to read product labels and ingredients before purchasing.

Based on the Nutritional Guidelines for Filipinos, an individual person can increase fiber intake by eating a variety of high fiber foods such as fruits, vegetables, dried beans and peas, whole grain bread, oatmeal and other whole grain cereals and pasta.

Be one of those health-conscious people who choose whole grain products. Make whole grain part of your daily meal. It is good for your health!

For more information on food and nutrition, contact:  Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Director, Food and Nutrition Research Institute, Department of Science and Technology, General Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City; Tel/Fax Num:  8372934 and 8373164; email: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph, mar_v_c@yahoo.com; FNRI-DOST website: http://www.fnri.dost.gov.ph.; FNRI Facebook page: facebook.com/FNRI-DOST; FNRI Twitter account: twitter.com/FNRI-DOST. (FNRI-DOST S&T Media Service/PIA-Caraga)


Farmer leaders to receive financial support

BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 15 (PIA) - A new ordinance was passed and approved recently by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Agusan del Norte providing financial assistance to the members of the Provincial Agricultural and Fishery Council (PAFC) and Integrated Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Council (IFARMC).

Under Provincial Ordinance No. 406-2016 authored by Provincial Board Member Antidio B. Amora, entitled: “An Ordinance Providing Financial Support to the Farmer Leaders on Agriculture Rural Based Organization Under the People Empowerment and Agri-Entrepreneural Skills and Livelihood Enhancement Program of the Province of Agusan del Norte,” PAFC and IFARMC members who shall be present during regular quarterly meeting of farmer leaders will receive an honorarium of P500.00 each.

This was based under Section 36 of Republic Act 7160 or the Local Government Code of 1991, which states that, a local government unit may, through its local chief executive and with the concurrence of the sanggunian concerned, provide assistance, financial or otherwise, to such people’s and non-government organizations for economic, social oriented, environmental or cultural projects to be implemented within its jurisdiction.

Hence, Gov. Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba was positive about the program for the farmers to encourage people participation and empowerment in agriculture and fishery development, and endeavors to emphasize social justice, equity, productivity and sustainability in the use of the agriculture and fishery resources.

The general functions of PAFC and IFARMC are to identify and assess the diverse needs and resources of the province and participate in policy assessment and formulation in consultation with the provincial government and non-government organizations in agriculture and fishery development.

The province will appropriate funds every year for the said quarterly honorarium under Support to Rural Based Organizations. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)


OWWA organizes OFW org in AgNor town

BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 15 (PIA) - The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) in partnership with the local government unit of Buenavista, Agusan del Norte held a one day community organizing to the 30 Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and dependents on February 10, 2015.

The participants were provided with Financial Literacy Training and Values Reorientation Seminar, which is anchored on the aspiration of the agency to prepare the OFWs and their beneficiaries in becoming self-sustaining individuals especially upon return of the OFWs in the country.

“Understanding the value of money, knowing how we could make the most out of it and being taught on how to make it grow is very helpful for us OFW families, we know that working abroad wouldn’t last forever,” shared Rebecca M. NaΓ―ve during the discussion in financial literacy.

They were also given workshops on revisiting their values through interacting with their co-participants.

Meanwhile, a campaign on the programs and services of the agency was also delivered. Enthusiastic with the many benefits that the agency offers, the participants inquired more about the services they may avail of especially the scholarships and training benefits. They were likewise enjoined to help in disseminating the agency’s services to their neighbors who were not able to attend in the campaign.

Family Welfare Officer Lorie Ann G. Hilongos then facilitated the community organizing and election of officers of the Buenavista OFWs Organization.

Moreover, Auralyn Sanchez, the elected president of the organization, afterwards held a meeting with the officers to discuss the IT Training they wish to be provided with by the month of March.

The agency will be assisting the organization for their registration with the Department of Labor and Employment. The group will also be given Techno-Transfer Skills Training and Entrepreneurship Development Training apart from their scheduled Information Technology. (JPIM, OWWA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)


Surigao Norte town supports DOLE’s programs, services

By Olga Virginia A. Demata and Abigail Grace S Pantejo

MAINIT, Surigao del Norte, Feb. 15 (PIA) – The local government unit (LGU) of Mainit, Surigao del Norte being an active partner, pledged their support in implementing the Department of Labor and Employment’s (DOLE's) various programs and activities.

The LGU allocates a total amount of P100,000 yearly under the Gender and Development (GAD) fund of the municipality for semi- institutionalization of its Provincial Employment Service Office (PESO).

“This fund will be appropriated yearly by this local unit in order to sustain the implementation of DOLE programs and activities,” Sangguniang Bayan member Lynda B. Mozar said.

The LGU wants to develop their PESO by conducting more activities with regard to providing employment services to job seekers, both for local and overseas employment, recruitment assistance to employers and conduct of pre-employment counseling and orientation to prospective local and overseas workers.

Recently, the Sangguniang Bayan of Mainit was present, along with municipal vice mayor Crisanta O. Mondano in confirming the resolution here at the SB Session Hall Legislative Building. (DOLE/PIA-Surigao del Norte)


TESDA helps rebuild houses through carpentry training in SurSur

By Greg Tataro Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Feb. 15 (PIA) – In a joint undertaking with concerned government agencies and instrumentalities, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) provincial office here has continued to make a dent by carrying out its mandate.

Recently, the said agency headed by provincial director Rey Cueva had added another feather in its cap by holding a five-day “Training Cum Production in Carpentry NC II” for 28 participants whose houses were said to be “washed out” by Typhoon Agaton, the first storm to hit the province in 2014, it was learned.

The activity was held in Barangay Bolhoon, San Miguel, 31 kilometers south, this city.

According to Cueva, the training aims “To develop skilled carpenters through Community-based Training” and “To rebuild 28 houses washed out by Typhoon Agaton through training cum production process.”

The Provincial Governor’s Office (PGO), LGU San Miguel, Philippine Army, Barangay LGU-Bolhoon, Surigao del Sur State University (SDSSU), and their office were cited as “sources of funds” by the TESDA provincial chief.

Busy a couple of weeks earlier a series of commitment, the TESDA here had also been host to the 2016 Planning and Budgeting Exercises for TESDA Caraga Execom Members at La Entrada, San Agustin town on January 14-15. (NGBT/Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)


Cebuano News: Pista sa Kapitolyo mabulokong gisaulog

Ni Mary Jul E. Escalante

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Peb. 15 (PIA) - Nahimong mabulukon ug bibo ang pagsaulog sa kapistahan sa patron Our Lady of Lourdes o Pista nan Kapitolyo niadtong Pebrero 11, 2016 ning dakbayan.

Ang maong selebrasyon gisugdan pinaagi sa usa ka prosisyon sa sayo nga kabuntagon sulod sa capitol compound ug misunod nga gipahigayon ang usa ka Misa Pasalamat didto sa Capitol Chapel.

Human sa misa pasalamat, gisaluhan sa mga empleyado sa kapitolyo ug mga opisyales ning probinsya ang libreng pamahaw ug painit isip usa ka pamilya didto sa capitol grounds. Pagkahapon sa samang adlaw, napuno sa kabibo ug katawa ang Provincial Convention Center sa mga padula ug pabibo nga gisalmutan sa mga empleyado ug mga opisyales.

Dako ang kalipay ni Gobernador Sol Matugas sa malampuson ug hapsay nga kasaulogan sa maong kapistahan ning tuiga ug mapasalamaton usab siya kang patron Our Lady of Lourdes sa tanang grasya nga gibubo niini sa probinsya. (PGO-PIC/PIA-Surigao del Norte)