PRRD allocates P2-B for rehab of quake-affected
Surigao
By Venus L. Garcia
SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Feb. 13 (PIA) –
Speaking before a crowd of devastated but hopeful earthquake victims during his
personal visit in this city on Sunday, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte (PRRD)
disclosed that the national government has favorably allocated around P2
billion for the rehabilitation of Surigao del Norte province, which was hit by
the 6.7-magnitude earthquake on Friday evening, Feb. 10.
It may be recalled that the members of the
Sangguniang Panlungsod has declared the city under a state of calamity on
Saturday after a power blackout, water scarcity, and major damages in buildings
and lifelines were noted.
Included in the immediate rescue and clearing
operation is the collapsed Anao-aon bridge in the municipality of San
Francisco, under the provincial road of Surigao del Norte which is totally
closed to traffic. Hence, new construction of 165.0 linear meter bridge is
recommended with an estimated amount of P115M.
Based on the assessment of the Department of Public
Works and Highways, the cost of damage of the Surigao State College of
Technology has reached to P150M; provincial capitol buildings and other
infrastructures - P63M; ports (Lipata Ferry Terminal and Surigao port)
facilities damage- P161.5M; national roads damage -P208.2M. These total to
P582.7M.
Accordingly, the immediate needs are the full
restoration of critical infrastructure and lifelines, construction materials
for damaged housing and relocation, emergency work for displaced workers,
financial help to severely injured.
Meanwhile, the President conveyed his words of
encouragement to the Surigaonons. PRRD said that he only intended to deliver
what is beneficial and best for his countrymen. “The different national line
agencies are our allies in pushing for good reforms in governance,” he said. He
also assured that he would not allow any corrupt practices in doing public
service.
PRRD said how sorry he was for the unfavorable experiences
they have undergone as a result of the strong tremor of the quake. However, he
is thankful that nothing more fatal has happened as compared to the typhoon
Yolanda incident.
“Life has always its ups and downs. There is always
a time for joy and at times mourning,” PRRD said. He also expressed his
sincerest condolences to the bereaved families of those who died when the
calamity has stricken.
Per record from the Surigao del Norte provincial
disaster risk reduction and management council (PDRRM), there are 157 families
affected in the municipality of Sison, six in Malimono, 36 in Mainit, 31 in San
Francisco which totals to 230 families.
Meanwhile, the victims eagerly and patiently queued
to avail their share of relief goods to help alleviate their daily needs.
Around 3,500 relief packs containing six kilos rice, six liters of water,
coffee and assorted canned goods were distributed by the Department of Social
Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga.
PRRD arrived at the city gymnasium at 1:17 p.m. He
was accompanied by PCOO secretary Martin Andanar and welcomed by Surigao del
Norte governor Sol Matugas, Surigao City mayor Ernesto Matugas, Surigao del
Norte representatives Francisco Jose Matugas and Robert Ace Barbers and other
local officials. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)
Army intensifies security for 20th CRAM in Tandag
City
By Nida Grace P. Barcena
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Feb. 13 (PIA) – In
line with the 20th Caraga Regional Athletic Meet (CRAM) here, the 36th Infantry
Batallion (36IB), Philippine Army has intensified its security operations in
the city.
In a press statement, 36IB commanding officer Lt.
Colonel Randolph Rojas said he is committed to support in terms of security
concerns and other tasks for the duration of the CRAM 2017.
“We are utilizing all our available resources from
personnel, mobility, and other assets just to ensure the safety of the
athletes, coaches, trainers, spectators and the general public, as well,” said
Lt. Col. Rojas.
Some K-9 units with the capability to detect bombs
and other IEDs, casualty medical evacuation team (CMET) including the field
ambulance units were also deployed.
According to 36IB Civil Military Operations officer
Captain Al Anthony Pueblas, being one of the members of the Technical Working
Committee on Securit, their troops are mobilized based on the approved security
plan in close coordination with the Philippine National Police (PNP), the chair
of the committee.
Part of the plan according to Pueblas is the
conduct of the joint AFP-PNP checkpoints in the identified entry and exit
points in the city. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)
20th CRAM kicks off in Tandag City
By Nida Grace P. Barcena
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Feb. 13 (PIA) – The
20th Caraga Regional Athletic Meet (CRAM) formally opened on Sunday here
participated by more than 5,000 participants coming from the five provinces of
Caraga Region.
The activity started at 2:30 p.m. with a grand
parade, followed by the ceremonial cutting of ribbon at the entrance of Surigao
del Sur Sports Complex, and formal opening program.
As one of the highlights of the activity, Rio
Olympic 2016 silver medalist and currently Airwoman First Class of Philippine
Air Force Hidilyn Diaz led the lighting of the friendship urn and athletes'
oath of amateurism.
A total of 12 DepEd Divisions are competing from
the different sports including special games.
The provincial government of Surigao del Sur headed
by Governor Vicente Pimentel Jr, as the host province, allotted a total of P7
Million worth of financial support to the event.
Surigao del Sur has successfully hosted the CRAM
for two consecutive years (2014 and 2015) under the leadership of former
governor now 1st district representative Johnny Pimentel. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)
Feature: 4CMOBn change of command: a challenge,
gratitude in uniformed service
By Venus L. Garcia
BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 13 (PIA) – In a recent Turn-Over
of Command Ceremony held at the Kalayaan Hall, Camp Bancasi in this city,
Lieutenant Colonel Manuel Valdez IV became the 4th Civil-Military Operations
(Kasaligan) Battallion’s (4CMOBn’s) newest commanding officer.
Valdez replaces outgoing battalion commander Lieutenant
Colonel Rey Pasco who assumed command last March 14, 2015 until February 10,
2017.
Upon relinquishing his post, Lt. Col. Pasco
highlighted in his privileged speech the indigenous peoples (IP)-centric
approach on solving the challenges of peace and development particularly in
Caraga region where he piloted the capacitation of the IP youth.
“For the first time, the youth from the different
Certificate of Ancestral Domain Titles (CADTs) in Caraga gathered and actively
participated in a summit which equipped them to become better leaders and
effective communicators. The activity was successfully conducted in
collaboration with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga under the
leadership of Dir. Abner Caga wherein the 1st Regional IP Leadership and
Communicators Summit held on December 18-21, 2015 at Tiberias Retreat House,
Carmen, Agusan del Norte. Consequently, the group was formally registered at
the Security of Exchange Commission (SEC) as Caraga Mindanao Cultural
Development Incorporated,” recalled Pasco.
He added that the unit is also instrumental in the
creation of Indigenous People Crises Committee (IPCC), together with Office of
the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP). This group is composed
of IP leaders from different CADT areas in Caraga and was organized last
November 14, 2015 to provide a venue for ICC/IP leaders to meet, discuss and
agree amongst themselves the different issues and concerns currently being
confronted by the ICCs.
Meanwhile, in his assumption speech, Lt. Col.
Valdez recounted his significant experiences in the military service. He said
that he has learned the value of constant learning as a means for personal and
professional growth.
"I am more inclined in doing my best and to
continue what my predecessor have started and accomplished especially that he
has able to make a difference during his term in this battalion," Valdez
said.
As the presiding general officer during the change
of command, MGen Benjamin Madrigal, Jr., 4th Infantry Division commander,
Philippine Army expressed his gratitude to the local media partners and PIA
Caraga for the favorable information and communication support which is
essential and instrumental in keeping the people abreast about what the Phil.
Army is doing for them. He said that it is important to let the public know the
army's programs and projects.
Madrigal urged the partner-stakeholders to continue
supporting the 4CMOBn in advancing the peace, security and development in the
region. Likewise, Madrigal recognized and reiterated its strong partnership
with the PIA Caraga wherein several undertakings were carried out successfully.
“The best quality of a Civil-Military Operations
Officer should have good background of intelligence since it deals with
different government and non-government sectors and it disseminates relevant
information to the community,” said MGen Madrigal.
He also stressed that one of the many roles of the
Civil Military Operations is to strengthen stakeholder engagements and deliver
information effectively and to the communities. “I have placed my trust and
confidence in the leadership of these two officers. So, I am challenging them
to bear the mantle of perpetuating the rules and mandates of an excellent
serviceman,” emphasized MGen Madrigal.
Media partners, some heads of government agencies
and private stakeholders witnessed the Change of Command Ceremony.
Service with gratitude
Leading the 4th Civil-Military Operations Battalion
for 21 months and ten days was a mix of colorful and challenging experiences
that taught Lt. Col. Pasco to learn to regulate his life by wisely making
decisions and determine actions in perfect calibration.
“Setting a certain standard and boundary enables me
to perform my duty without grumble,” said Pasco.
He mentioned that what he really wanted was for the
Kasaligan Troopers to relearn the good old ways of doing things and unlearn the
bad habits. “We started with the basics to be able to address the necessities
of our soldiers. We have done many improvements in our facilities, apart from
the good transformation within ourselves. And I could not even expressed in
words how thankful I am for the wonderful camaraderie we have shown to one
another,” sincerely expressed Pasco.
“By improving our administrative processes and
support system of companies, we made them feel that we care for them. Taking
the responsibility of looking after their welfare has also motivated and
inspired them to perform their duties and responsibilities to the best of their
abilities – and that is empowerment,” underscored Pasco.
Pasco remarked in all sincerity that there are
things that should be credited to those who rightfully deserve. “I cannot do
all these without the support of my co-soldiers. Above all, I thank the Gaotu
for His saving graces and blessings in all my battles and undertakings,”
modestly enunciated Pasco.
He said that the challenge of leading the Kasaligan
Troopers is tremendous toward greater integrity, service and openness. “But as
I look at my successor, Lt. Col Valdez, I am very positive and confident that
this organization under his leadership will accomplish everything that has been
envisioned, and may even surpass what we have achieved,” underlined Pasco.
“To all my friends, I thank you for your support,
for your indulgence. I thank you for your comradeship, and above all I thank
you for your continued dedication,” concluded Pasco. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)
Caraga cops celebrate 26th PNP Foundation Day; 7
Awarded
BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 13 (PIA) - Caraga Police
celebrated the 26th PNP Foundation Day here on Monday morning highlighted by
giving of recognition and awards to seven deserving police officers.
Agusan del Norte Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M.
Amante-Matba graced the occasion and spearheaded the giving of awards together
with Police Regional Office 13 director PCSupt. Rolando Felix.
"Medalya ng Kagalingan" or PNP Merit
Medal was given to Chief Inspector Dick Cale, Senior Inspector Darwin Abainza,
Senior Inspector Erwin Cordano, SPO4 Grestito Vallespin, SPO2 Marlowe Sison,
PO3 Teodoro Paredes, and PO2 Kishmita Jean Bajan for their successful
anti-illegal drug operations.
“Let us always make right choices and deliver
better services to community,” Matba said.
She also stressed out the need to reform especially
those personnel involved in illegal activities.
A wreath-laying ceremony in honor of the PNP
members killed during police operations at the Police Regional Office 13
Memorial and a Eucharistic mass were also part of the celebration.
The PNP was created under Republic Act 6975 that
abolished the Philippine Constabulary and the Integrated National Police
(PC/INP) and activated a police force on January 29, 1991.
(PNP-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)
On Valentine’s Day: PopCom warns teens against
untimely pregnancy, HIV
By May Ann O. Escobal
BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 13 (PIA) – The Commission on
Population (PopCom) is once again reminding young people, not only those in a
romantic relationship, to be more cautious and responsible on their choices
especially as they celebrate Valentine’s Day, amidst the rising incidence of
teenage pregnancies and HIV.
“Young people should be sexually responsible at all
times. They should learn to have self-respect and self-worth; they don’t need
to change their values to conform to others. They have to learn to ‘Say No’ for
real love does not need sex; it can wait. And adolescent should also make wise
decisions for a brighter tomorrow,” PopCom Caraga regional director Alexander
A. Makinano highlighted.
PopCom observed that youth seek their peers and the
mass media, not their elders, on matters pertaining to relationships.
While PopCom and its partners continue its campaign
on sexual awareness and safe sexual behaviour, sexual experimentations and
premarital sex increases.
Studies pointed-out that premarital sex is highly
unprotected, exposing young people to the risk of getting Sexually Transmitted
Infection (STI) or worst Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). Mostly of the HIV
victims are young people.
Amidst the increasing incidence of teenage
pregnancy and other youth-related issues in the region, PopCom together with
its local program partners, is constantly intensifying its implementation of
AHD program interventions to prevent such sexual and non-sexual risky behaviors
of the young individuals.
Championing young people, safeguarding their health
and well-being, enabling and empowering them to make positive life choices and
actualize their full potential are the long term priorities of PopCom through
its Adolescent Health and Development (AHD) Program. The program aims to
provide the adolescents and youth with appropriate information, life skills,
and services to enable them to cope with their sexual and full development into
adulthood. Activities under this program include the U4U Teen Trail Initiative,
Sexually Healthy and Personally Effective (SHAPE) Training, and the newly
implemented initiative - Information and Service Delivery Network (ISDN) for
Adolescent Health and Development (AHD).
The PopCom official also reminded everyone that
this is not only a concern of one agency but it is everybody’s. Makinano
further said that unified efforts of the different sectors in the community
most especially the parents are very important in molding these youth into
better citizens. (PopCom-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)
President Duterte gives posthumous award to slain
soldier
By 1Lt Karl Jan Devaras
BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 13 (PIA) - Immediately after his
visit from Surigao City on Sunday for the relief goods distribution and to give
a message of encouragement to the victims of the recent 6.7 magnitude
earthquake that hit the city, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte flew all the way to
Beata Virgine Del Santo Rosario Chapel, Division Advance Command Post (DACP),
Bancasi in this city to personally give a posthumous Military Merit Medal for
gallantry in action and condole with the family of late Sgt. Marloun Balais.
It can be recalled that on February 11, some 15
armed New People’s Army (NPA) belonging to Sanga sa Platun Pampropaganda (SPP)
16-A, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMC) attacked a community in
Sitio Sarog, Barangay San Isidro, Santiago town, Agusan del Norte which cause
the instantaneous death of Sgt Balais, two civilians and seriously wounding
three other civilians.
In his statement, Lt. Col Glenn Joy Aynera, the
commanding officer of 29th Infantry (MATATAG) Battalion based in Agusan del Norte
condemned the NPA attack, which took the lives of two innocent civilians and
wounding three others.
Lt. Col. Aynera also said that they were deeply
saddened for the lost of their comrade. However, it will not stop them from
doing their mandate which is to ensure the safety and security of the people of
Agusan del Norte. (4CMO Battalion, Phil. Army/PIA-Caraga)
Tagalog News: Apektadong residente ng 6.7 magnitude
na lindol tumanggap ng relief assistance
Ni Jennifer P. Gaitano
SURIGAO CITY, Peb. 13 (PIA) - Tumanggap ng relief
goods ang mga residente sa Surigao City nitong linggo ng hapon galing sa
Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). Sa pagdating ni Pangulong
Rodrigo Duterte sa gymnasium dito sa lungsod agad na sinimulan ang pamimigay ng
mga relief goods sa mga nakaantabay na mga residente na galing sa barangay
Luna, Taft, San Juan, Canlanipa, Washington, at iba pang apektadong barangay.
Matatandaan na nitong byernes ay niyanig ng 6.7
magnitude na lindol ang probinsya ng Surigao del Norte at nakaranas ng
sunud-sunod na aftershocks. May mga residenteng lumikas at piniling manatili sa
mas mataas na lugar, dahil na rin sa kanilang takot sa sinasabing Tsunami.
Nasa 3,900 relief packs ang naipamigay ng DSWD sa
pangunguna ni Secretary Judy Taguiwalo kasama si Pangulong Duterte at iba ang
opisyal.
Anim na kilong bigas, walong canned goods at kape
ang laman ng isang relief pack. Namigay rin ng mahigit 2,000 na 6-liters na
tubig para sa mga residente.
Pinahayag din ni DSWD Secretary Taguiwalo na hindi
lang beneficiaries ng 4Ps (Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program) ang binigyan ng
relief packs, kundi lahat ng apektadong pamilya sa nasabing syudad. Prayoridad
na binigyan ang mga pregnant women, persons with disabilities, at senior
citizens.
Napag-alaman rin na maliban sa naipamigay na 3,900
na relief goods ay magbibigay pa ng augmentation ang DSWD sa mga residente.
Samantala, kansleado na rin ang klase sa lahat ng
lebel sa publiko at pribadong eskwelahan. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)
Tagalog News: Supply ng tubig sa pangunahing mga
lugar sa lungsod ng Surigao, 100% nang naibalik
Ni Venus L. Garcia
LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Peb. 13 (PIA) - Matapos
makaranas ng problema sa tubig ang mga residente sa lungsod ng Surigao nitong
mga nakaaraang araw ay naibalik na ang buong porsyentong normal na supply ng
tubig sa mga pangunahing lugar o households kaninang alas tres ng hapon,
maliban sa lugar ng Mabua, Ipil, Lipata elevated areas, Punta Bilar at
Panubigon na apektado sa pagkakasira ng Anao-aon bridge.
Ito ay matapos ma-erepair ng Surigao Metropolitan
Water District ang eight, 10 at 14 inches diameter pipelines. Mangilan-ngilang
lugar na lamang na bumubuo sa sampung porsyento ang nakararanas ng low pressure
dahil mainam pa rin na dahan-dahanin ang pagdagdag pressure sa nasabing linya.
Kung matatandaan, matapos ang pagyanig ng nasabing
6.7-magnitude na lindol ay hirap nang makahanap ng mapagkukunan ng tubig ang
bawat barangay sa Surigao.
Maliban sa ipinamahaging bottled drinking water ng
Rotary Club at iba pang NGOs ay nakarating na rin ang C130 sa Bancasi Airport
ng Butuan City na may dalang 137 boxes ng assorted medicines, 500 hygiene kits,
75 tents, 500 jerry cans, at dalawang drums ng chlorine. Ito ay kabilang sa
pinangakong tulong ng pamahalaan sa pamamagitan ng NDRRMC, DSWD, DOH at
Philippine Red Cross.
Samantala, base sa report ng national
electrification administration ay 95 porsyento ng Surigao del Norte Electric
Cooperative franchise areas, kabilang ang primary lines, ay nagkaroon na ng
power supply nitong linggo. Kasalukuyan pa ring tinutugunan ng electric
cooperative ang naiwang limang porsyento.
Hanggang ngayon ay patuloy pa ring nakararanas ng
aftershocks ang lugar ng Surigao. Inaasahan ng mas nakararami ang makatanggap
ng food items gawa ng pagsasara ng mall at iba pang supermarkets. Kalakip din
sa kanilang hangad ang ayudang pinansyal para sa pagpapagawa ng kanilang
nasirang tahanan. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)
