Tuesday, January 24, 2017

P15M abaca fiber warehouse underway

By Aimee B. Sienes

BUTUAN CITY, Jan. 24 (PIA) - A P15 million abaca fiber warehouse with drying area will soon rise in the municipality of Santiago, Agusan del Norte.

The provincial government of Agusan del Norte in partnership with the Department of Agriculture (DA)–Caraga Regional Office is building this project with the aim of boosting the abaca fiber production in the province and meet the increasing market demand in the region.

A ground-breaking ceremony was recently conducted with the presence of Provincial Board Member Dick Victor B. Carmona, Provincial Engineer Renato Corvera, Provincial Planning and Development Officer Rofel T. Cabaltera and Provincial Technical Working Group, and other officials of the DA Regional Office. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Agusan del Norte receives P10M medical health assistance from DOH

By Aimee B. Sienes

BUTUAN CITY, Jan. 24 (PIA) - The provincial government of Agusan del Norte recently inked an agreement with the Department of Health (DOH), Regional Office XIII for the availment of the medical health assistance in the amount of P10,000,000.

The Sangguniang Panlalawigan authorized Provincial Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba, through Sanggunian Resolution No.011-2017, authored by Provincial Board Member Elizabeth Marie R. Calo, to sign the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) by and between the province and the DOH for the said medical health assistance that will cater to the indigent and poor patients seeking medical and health care services in the provincial, district and municipal hospitals managed by the provincial government.

This program is advantageous to the health and welfare of the underprivileged patients of the province.

The said MOA is an essential document for an effective and efficient system of implementation inclusive of a systematic reimbursement process for LGU managed-hospitals. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

DepEd Surigao Norte triumphs in global tilt

By Gersim L. Luminatac

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Jan. 24 (PIA) - Seven science investigatory projects (SIP) from DepEd Division of Surigao del Norte were merited Gold Award as proclaimed during the 2016 ICAN (International Invention, Innovation Competition in Canada) held recently at North York Memorial Community Hall, Toronto, Canada.

The lemoneric ointment from Claver National High School in Claver town adjudged as Best Invention and was awarded with a trophy and a diploma of excellence from Romanian Inventors Association.

The said event was organized by the Toronto International Society of Innovation and Advanced Skills (TISIAS) and supported by the International Federation of Inventors’ Association (IFIA) and World Invention Intellectual Property Associations (WIIPA).

The project proponents received gold medallions and award certificates.

The journey of Surigaonon Inventors in ICAN 2016 was indeed a great success in showing their winning inventions, innovative products as well as scientific research projects in the global arena. (DepEd-Surigao del Norte/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

DOE strengthens sector-wide disaster response system

BUTUAN CITY, Jan. 24 (PIA) - To manifest that the various components of the country's energy sector are all up to speed, the Department of Energy (DOE) continued its series of Disaster Response Protocol Workshops held yesterday at the Fiesta Hall of the National Power Corporation (NPC) headquarters in Quezon City.

Energy Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi asserted that “all industry participants must be attuned to the existing nationwide disaster response system of the energy sector.”

During the series of workshops and international dialogues about energy resiliency, Sec. Cusi emphasizedthat “the energy sector has long been implementing protocols to address and respond to calamities and disasters that take their toll on vital energy infrastructures.”

"The DOE continues to update its system of protocols, advance notifications and quick-response strategies to fit the country’s current requirements," Sec. Cusi asserted.

At the Protocol Workshop, DOE Undersecretary Felix William B. Fuentebella highlighted that “the primary objective is for the energy sector to periodically review the implemented and established system of rules to effect the correct and appropriate conduct and procedures to be followed by the industry stakeholders.”

During the workshop, the DOE, NPC, National Electrification Administration (NEA), the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), Aboitiz Power Corporation, and Manila Electric Company (MERALCO) presented their respective standard operational procedures (SOPs) for disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM).

The presentations of the agencies specifically outlined the strategies and methods they are observing during and after calamities including the recommendations on how to improve the efficiency of all distribution utilities.

Among those who also attended and participated in the workshop were DOE Usec. Raul B. Aguilos, Usec. Petronilo L. Ilagan, Engr. Arwin L. Ardon aside from energy family officials and representatives from the DOE, NPC, NEA, NGCP, Aboitiz Power and MERALCO.

Sec. Cusi has consistently emphasized that the DOE will and is proactively advocating energy resiliency in the face of the frequent and disastrous occurrences of natural and human-induced calamities in the country.

The Secretary has been reiterating the need for the sector to be vigilant in upgrading its best practices in DRRM, so as to make them more responsive and adaptable to the highly evolving realities on the ground.

“The DOE has been regularly convening the industry partners to mainstream climate change adaptation in connection with DRRM strategies in the sector. This is to reduce the vulnerability of vital energy systems to the destructive effects of calamities.”

The Secretary revealed his plan to include climate change resilience in the agenda of the Asian Cooperation Dialogue, which will be sponsored by the Philippines in August of this year.

"The DOE will make sure that the Philippines is prepared to showcase its own workable and effective energy model before the Asian community," Sec. Cusi concluded. (DOE/PIA-Caraga)

Search for Pantawid Pamilya 'Modelong Ama' officially opens

By Ryan Malbas Tapayan

BUTUAN CITY, Jan. 24 (PIA) - The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga through the Regional Program Management Office (RPMO) of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program officially started the provincial field validation of the nominees for the Regional Search for Modelong Ama 2017.

Official contenders for the regional search are from the following cities and municipalities: Mangagoy, Surigao del Sur; Placer, Surigao del Norte; Remedios T. Romualdez, Agusan del Norte; Sta. Josefa, Agusan del Sur; and Libjo, Dinagat Islands.

The said search aims to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment pursuant to Republic Act 9710 or the Magna Carta of Women, as it adheres to promoting women’s rights and eliminating gender discrimination in its systems, structures, policies, programs, and processes. It also observes to the DSWD Gender and Development (GAD) mainstreaming framework as embodied in Administrative Order No. 5 series of 2012, which supports the enhancement of internal processes, systems and strategies for GAD mainstreaming, and of mechanism for gender responsive programs and services.

While the program is considered as having a “woman’s face”, with 89 percent of its cash grantees constituting women, it also recognizes that there is a growing need to partner with men to achieve transformed gender relations among Pantawid Pamilya households.

DSWD Caraga OIC Regional Director Mita Chuchi Gupana-Lim said that Pantawid Pamilya should serve as an avenue to achieving gender equality.

“The program believes that men should be made partners in pushing for and achieving women’s empowerment and gender equality by concretely contributing to advocacies against gender-based discrimination and gender-based violence within families and communities,” Lim said.

The search for Modelong Ama of Pantawid Pamilya is one way to rally support from amongst men to champion GAD and women empowerment. (Social Marketing Unit/DSWD Field Office Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Tagalog News: Baha sa Caraga region nagsimula ng humupa, mga nasalanta nasa evacuation centers pa

Ni Jennifer P. Gaitano

LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Enero 24 (PIA) - Tumigil na ang ulan sa ibat-ibang probinsya ng Caraga region at nagsimula na ring humupa ang baha, subalit mga apektadong pamilya at indibidwal ay nasa mga evacuation centers pa sa kasalukuyan.

Matatandaan na noong Huwebes ay nasa red alert status ang Caraga region nang umabot na sa 3.14 meters ang lebel ng tubig sa Agusan River at agad na nagdeklara ng forced evacuation ang Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) sa mga lugar na apektado ng baha upang masigurong ligtas ang mga residente sa ibat-ibang barangay.

Ayon kay RDRRMC chairperson at Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Caraga regional director Rosauro Arnel Gonzales Jr., nagsimula na rin ang relief operations na pinangungunahan ng Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) kasama ang Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP), at ibat-ibang ahensya ng gobyerno para sa mga pamilya at indibidwal sa mga barangay.

Sa Agusan del Sur, umabot sa mahigit 13,000 ang apektadong indibidwal kung saan pinakamarami ang munisipyo ng Loreto, sinundan ng Veruela, Esperanza, La Paz, San Luis, Bunawan, Trento, San Francisco, Talacogon at Sibagat. Ang mga nasabing bayan ay nagsimula na ring makatanggap ng relief operations ng gobyerno.

Inalis na ang suspensyon ng mga klase sa Cabadbaran City at Las Nieves ng Agusan del Norte, pati na rin sa Surigao City at buong probinsya ng Surigao del Norte, Loreto at Cagdianao ng Dinagat Islands, at iba pang lugar sa rehiyon. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Friday, January 20, 2017

Army rescues flood-affected residents in Caraga

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Jan. 20 (PIA) – As the tail end of a cold front brought floodings in several municipalities in Caraga region and caused displacement of local residents, the Fourth Infantry Division (4ID) of Philippine Army along with its infantry battalions in the provinces has taken the action and rescued the communities from risks and harm.

Major General Benjamin Madrigal Jr., commanding general of the 4ID, Philippine Army, has assured the general public that the army will protect the lives of the people and ensure their safety at all times, especially during calamity/emergency.

“The Philippine Army is committed to serve and protect the people of the land. In times of calamity/disaster, we will never hesitate to extend help and assistance to the communities. We take pro-active measures to safeguard the lives of the people and keep them safe,” stressed Madrigal.

MGen. Madrigal also underlined that despite heavy rains and floods, the different battalions in the provinces have actively responded to the flood-affected communities and saved lives of hundreds of individuals.

It can be recalled that on Thursday, the personnel of Charlie company 23rd Infantry Battalion led by commanding officer 2Lt Roel Maglalang, together with Esperanza, Agusan del Sur vice mayor Eric Rey Siohan, Municipal Local Government Operations Officer (MLGOO) Eugene Seraspe, Search and Rescue Agusan del Sur (SARAS) personnel Jefrey Austriro and municipal administrator Michelle Templado conducted disaster visitation at Barangay Hawilian and assisted the flood-affected families and ensured their safety.

On the same date, the group also led the conduct of evacuation of the flood-affected populace of barangay Batohon, Esperanza, Agusan del Sur as the floodwaters continue to rise and may risk the lives of the residents.

On Jan. 19, 2017, the same team also helped motorists in their transportation thru pump boats as the Agusan River overflowed at Batohon-Hawilian, Esperanza, Agusan del Sur road going to Las Nieves of Agusan del Norte, which was not then passable by light vehicles.

Also, in response to the alarming rise of water level in La Paz and Loreto, Agusan del Sur due to continuous rains, the 401st Brigade under the command of Col. Cristobal Zaragoza has deployed a team with response vehicle at the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC); emplaced an officer from 26IB to municipal DRRMCs; deployed a platoon in Loreto area for ready response operations; deployed another officer that leads section of 26 Infantry Brigade with vehicle in La Paz area for disaster response operation.

Meanwhile, the Civil Military Operations (CMO) Battallion deployed one team with officer and vehicle at RDRRMC for coordination and monitoring.

The 30IB commanding officer Lt. Col. Rico Amaro also attended the Pre-Disaster Risk Assessment (PDRA) meeting with other members of the PDRRMC/CDRRMC of Surigao City; conducted visitation and monitoring of the weather condition at PDRRMC Office in Surigao del Norte. One squad led by 1Lt Ken Enciso has assisted the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO), as well as the MDRRMO of Surigao del Norte in the repacking of relief goods.

With all these, the good commander also recognized the active collaboration of the different government agencies and concerned citizens to address the calamity that affects the communities in Caraga region. He also reiterated that the Philippine Army would continue to give its best as they do their duties and responsibilities for the Filipino people. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Heavy rain prompts Surigao Norte, Dinagat Islands to suspend classes

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Jan. 20 (PIA) – Heavy rain on Wednesday prompted the provinces of Surigao del Norte and Dinagat Islands to suspend classes in all levels until Thursday, Jan. 19.

The suspension of classes was declared by the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council of Surigao City after an alert level 2 was raised by PAGASA Surigao for continuous rainfall and some low lying areas downtown are already flooded. Several domestic flights were also cancelled, it was learned.

As per information from Gilbert Gonzales of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) Surigao del Norte, there are no casualties and major damages have been reported so far in the province.

In Dinagat Islands, heavy rainfall also forced the suspension of classes on Thursday, Jan. 19 in the municipalities of Loreto, Basilisa, San Jose, Dinagat and Cagdianao.

According to Dinagat Islands PDRRMO officer Rosario "Inday" Roxas-Alon, the province only experienced intermittent heavy rainfall. "The suspension of classes is just a preemptive measure considering the terrain of the province which is prone to landslide," said Alon.

Alon said the suspension of classes is already lifted today.

Meanwhile, the Surigao del Norte PDRRMO, Dinagat Islands PDRRMO and Surigao City DRRMO are now conducting post-assessment/evaluation to the affected areas. (PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Corporate rice farming to address needed rice supply

By Rhea  C. Abao

BUTUAN CITY, Jan. 20 (PIA) - The Department of Agriculture's (DA's) commitment to ensuring available and affordable food for all, and help the farmers attain a decent income is intensified through various interventions and programs implemented on the ground.

The creation of the Corporate Rice Farming Program (CRFP) aims to provide a mechanism to support the implementation of special programs such as the rice subsidy scheme of Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) particularly the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps.)

In Caraga Region, DA has forged a partnership with the Farm Service Providers (FSP) in the region such as the Sto. Niño Multi-Purpose Cooperative (SNMPC) from Butuan City and Agusanon Para sa Bag-ong Pilipino Inc. (AGUS PINOY) Cooperative from San Francisco, Agusan del Sur to address the needed requirement of the program.

"In the region, SNMPC and AGUS PINOY committed to providing rice supply to selected 4Ps program areas in the second semester of 2017 for Butuan City and the Province of Agusan del Sur as pilot areas for CRFP," said Rebecca R. Atega, Chief of the DA Caraga - Field Operations Division.

SNMPC will serve 2,095 4Ps household beneficiaries in Butuan City while AGUS PINOY committed to served 15,219 beneficiaries for the Province of Agusan del Sur. Each household will receive 18 kgs of rice good for six months. With that, a total of 17,314 beneficiaries will be catered by CRFP.

"We did not hesitate to help the government's initiative to provide available and affordable food for all because this is also our time to pay back from the assistance we have also received from the government. It is our honor to be a partner for this good endeavor," explained Marilyn Aranas, Chairperson of SNMPC.

With this partnership, DA will provide each FSP the appropriate farm inputs, technologies, and services to increase their farm productivity and ensure an adequate supply of rice for the targeted number of beneficiaries. The Land Bank of the Philippines will also establish a lending window for the FSP as they participate in the program.

"CRFP could provide additional income to local farm service providers and farmers. This promotes local food autonomy. In the light of the lifting of quantitative restrictions on rice by June 30, 2017, this program is a timely intervention to provide marketing assistance to the rice farmers," said Director Leo P. Cañeda, a member of the Secretary's Technical Advisory Group (STAG).

With President Duterte's directive to the DSWD to provide rice subsidy to the 4Ps beneficiaries, the DA aims to contribute to its successful implementation by ensuring continuous rice supply through CRFP. (DA-Caraga Information Section/PIA-Caraga)

DTI commits to support DAR's farmer biz school project

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Jan. 20 (PIA) – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) committed to support the Department of Agrarian Reform in its implementation of the project dubbed “Capacity Building of Small Farmers in Entrepreneurial Development of Market Access” through the establishments of Farmer Business School (FBS) by providing technical assistance through trainings and coaching on value addition of their products for global competitiveness as well as entrepreneurial development schemes.

FBS aims to help the Agrarian Reform Beneficiary Organization (ARBO) build knowledge and skills to make their farms more profitable and help farmers learn how to make their farming enterprises and overall farm operations profitable and able to respond to market demands.

A signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the said commitment was done during the Farmer Business School On-site Launching recently at Barangay Union, Dapa in Siargao Island.

Implementing partners who signed the said MOA include Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) - Caraga, Provincial Government of Surigao del Norte and the Municipal Local Government of Dapa town.

Twenty five sessions of FBS will be implemented within four months at the PUSO NG DAPA Agrarian Reform Community particularly at Union Agri-Aqua Cooperative (UNAACO), one of the assisted ARBOs of DAR-SDN. (DAR-SDN/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Tagalog News: Ilang bayan at lungsod sa rehiyon ng Caraga lubog sa tubig-baha

Ni Venus L. Garcia

LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Enero 20 (PIA) - Dahil sa malakas at patuloy na buhos ng ulan na dulot ng Tail-end of Cold Front dito sa rehiyon ng Caraga, umabot na sa 1,829 na pamilya o 8,211 indibidwal ang apektado at ito ay inaasahang tataas pa kung hindi huhupa ang pag ulan. Nasa 1,815 na pamilya o 7,909 na indibidwal naman ang lumikas sa mga evacuation centers upang pansamantalang manatili, ayun sa tala ng Caraga Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (RDRRMC).

Sinuspindi na rin ang mga klase sa lahat ng antas ng paaralan sa Agusan del Sur, Agusan del Norte at Butuan City.

Tatlumpu’t lima namang pamilya o isang daan at siyam na indibidwal ang nagsilikas sa bayan ng RTR, Agusan del Norte gawa ng pagtaas ng water level.

Sa isang subdibisyon sa lungsod ng Surigao at ilang pangunahing daan sa siyudad ng Butuan naman ay lubog na sa tubig-baha at hirap nang madaanan.

Aabot naman sa humigit kumulang 50 na mga barangay ang nakararanas ng mga pagbaha dulot ng pag-apaw ng Agusan river at tributaries nito. Naka red alert na rin ang lokal na pamahalaan dito.

Sa Agusan del Sur, matindi namang tinamaan ng baha ang mga bayan ng La Paz, Bunawan, Talacogon, Loreto, San Luis at Veruela kung saan half-submerged o halos hanggang bubong na ang tubig-baha sa ilang kabahayan.

Samantala, naitala rin ang isang nawawalang 22 years old na lalaki sa Agusan del Sur na naitangay umano sa malakas na agos ng tubig-baha.

Isang clearing operation naman sa nagyaring landslide ang isinagawa sa Lingig, Surigao del Sur.

Ayon kay Lolita Vinalay, chief meteorological officer ng Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) Butuan, inaasahang bubuti na ang panahon ngayong weekend. (VLG/PIA-Caraga) 

Thursday, January 19, 2017

Butuanons honor significant hoisting of PH flag in Mindanao

By Venus L. Garcia

BUTUAN CITY, Jan. 19 (PIA) – With pride and admiration to the noble contributions of the Filipino revolutionaries who raised the Philippine flag for the first time in Mindanao, the Butuanons paid tribute by celebrating the 118th Anniversary of the Formal and Official Hoisting of Philippine Flag in Mindanao held early morning on Tuesday at the Guingona Park in this city.

The Butuan City government through mayor Ronnie Vicente Lagnada spearheaded the event and was gladly joined by government employees, Philippine National Police and Philippine Army personnel, students, local media practitioners, private individuals and Butuanons in honor of the sacrifices of the heroes for the hard-earned freedom and in showing allegiance to the Philippine flag that symbolizes patriotism and love of country of the Filipino people.

In his welcome remarks, Butuan City vice mayor Jose Aquino II underlined the Filipinos' gains of living in freedom. “We should be proud of our forefathers for their valor of emancipating Filipinos from foreign rule, by guarding our institutional rights from perils, and that we should feel proud of being a Butuanon and a Filipino."

He encouraged all Butuanons to be more responsible in all their endeavors, and continue to be patriotic everyday of their lives.

As enunciated also by historian and Butuan City Heritage Society president Greg Hontiveros, it exemplified the beginning of accession of the first Philippine Republic. "It is appropriate to commend ourselves to that virtue of Filipinos of fighting for freedom with sweat and remarkable effort," he added.

Hontiveros recalled how Filipinos in the past struggled in quest for independence and in claiming what the people in the country deserve. He also stressed that people of today should be able to embrace the good qualities of the Filipinos and be a good example to others.

Relentlessly marching in cadence and aligned in their platoon formation, the uniformed men positioned and gave a snappy salute upon hoisting of the giant flag as the nation’s emblem for freedom and victory against the Spaniards.

Meanwhile, Mayor Lagnada expressed that it is unsound for Filipinos to stand suffering. “This is the time for us to act as one nation to realize the collective aspirations for our motherland. That all may continue to give value to the Philippine Flag as a symbol solidarity and sovereignty,” he said.

Lagnada further emphasized by urging everyone to show the same sentiments with those who stood up for asserting our rights and who spilled blood in the name of freedom. “Let’s not wait for decades to achieve what we are supposed to enjoy as an independent nation. Work with a heart and focus on the primary needs of our ‘kababayans’. Hinangon ta duon (Let’s do it today)," he underlined.

Despite the rain during that day, the Special Program of the Arts of Agusan National High School performed the reenactment play of the historic account of the first hoisting of the Philippine flag in Mindanao.

Deserved to be treated with solemnity and dignity, the releasing of doves and community singing led by government officials culminated the program. (VLG/PIA-Caraga)

Nonstop rain triggers floods in Agusan del Sur

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Jan. 19 (PIA) – Due to continuous heavy rainfall experienced in the province of Agusan del Sur, several barangays in the different municipalities of the province were heavily flooded and most roads were rendered impassable.

At 8:30 a.m., the Esperanza bridge in Esperanza town, Agusan del Sur was impassable since it was flooded at 300 meter length, 1 meter depth. The public was then advised not to take Butuan-Tungao-Esperanza route. Also impassable is the Zilovia Section, San Luis, Agusan del Sur.

Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (MDRRMC) officer Marcos Gonzales of Loreto, Agusan del Sur, reported at around 8:00 a.m. that 10 barangays were already flooded due to continuous moderate to heavy rains. He also said that their disaster operation center was activated and rescue operation in the affected barangays was conducted by the authorities.

According to MDRRM Officer Cydric Cumba of La Paz, Agusan del Sur, 11 barangays in the said municipality are already flooded and floodwaters continue to rise due to moderate-heavy rainfall, these are the barangays of Sagunto, Panagangan Villa Paz, Sabang Adgawan, Osmena, Halapitan, San Patricio and Langasian. He also added that the Talacogon-La Paz national highway was impassable.

The PNP personnel of Sibagat Municipal Police Station also conducted patrolling and monitoring at the riverside in Brgy. San Vicente, Sibagat, Agusan del Sur and roads of Sibagat area. Yellow level flood alert status was also raised with 4.9 meter as of 9:30 a.m. At the same time, the PNP personnel of La Paz Municipal Police Station also conducted a rescue operation in the different flooded barangays in La Paz, Agusan del Sur.

As per information from SB member Ricky Angwas of Loreto, Agusan del Sur, the municipality is already under a state of calamity due to continuous moderate to heavy rainfall that caused floodings in the different barangays.

As of 1:00 p.m., flooded sections in Agusan del Sur are the following:  1) Lucena section along Babah-Talacogon Road (within an on-going project of the DEO), still passable to light vehicles but floodwaters still rising; 2) Zillovia section along San Luis-Talacogon Road, impassable to all types of vehicles; 3) Esperanza bridge, impassable to all types of vehicles. Maintenance personnel are on-site to assist the commuters.

Also, based on the situation report No. 2 released by Caraga RDRRMC, several barangays in the municipalities of La Paz, Bunawan, Talacogon, Loreto, San Luis, and Veruela in Agusan del Sur were already flooded. Of the 39 total of barangays affected, 23 were heavily flooded.

Meanwhile, around 4:00 p.m. today, acting governor Samuel Tortor in Agusan del Sur has declared  the suspension of classes in all levels effective Friday, Jan. 20, 2017 due to continuous moderate to heavy rainfall that caused floodings in different municipalities in the province.

The local residents are encouraged to report any information of floodings/landslides in their area at the PDRRMO Hotline numbers: 09217103463 (smart); 09175789585 / 09778242705. (JPG/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Hundreds of Agusanons displaced by floods

By Nora C. Lanuza

BUTUAN CITY, Jan. 19 (PIA) – Hundreds of families from the different municipalities of Agusan del Norte were evacuated Thursday morning due to the sudden rise of water level caused by incessant rainfall since Tuesday brought about by the Tail-end of a Cold Front.

As per record from the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC), a total of 112 families from Cabadbaran City were already evacuated at the city gymnasium.

The City DRRMO of Cabadbaran also conducted an evacuation to the affected areas in barangays 2, 3, 6, 9, Kauswagan and Comagascas due to the rise of the Cabadbaran River. As of 7:23 A.M Thursday, the water level of the river has already reached a warning limit of 4.106 meters high.

Due to severe flooding in the low lying barangays of the Cabadbaran City, mayor Katrina Marie Mortola has ordered the suspension of classes in all levels in the city.

Residents living along the rivers in Brgy. Concepcion, Cabadbaran City were advised to evacuate to the barangay hall or Concepcion Elementary School. They were also advised to refrain from crossing the river due to the strong current. For mobility, residents may use the Dona Telesfora route.

A pre-emptive evacuation was also conducted by the Municipal DRRM at Purok Punta Garcia and Poblacion 1 in the municipality of Tubay due to the sudden rise of water level in the area. The water level of the Kalinawan River in the municipality has already reached to 4.5 meters. Continuous monitoring of the water level is ongoing by the MDRRMO personnel.

In the municipality of RTR, 35 families or 109 individuals were also evacuated at the municipal gym due to the rise of water level in the area.

Early this morning, PDRRMC chairperson Gov. Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba has advised all local DRRMCs to conduct pre-emptive evacuation in high risk communities.

Meanwhile, Butuan City mayor Ronnie Vicente Lagnada has also released an order for the suspension of classes from pre-school, elementary and high school in the city on Thursday until further noticed. As of 12:00 P.M., the Agusan River water level was observed at 2.51 meters. (NCLM/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

CSC urges government agencies to support full implementation of graphic health warning in cigarette packs

By Regal C. Oribia

BUTUAN CITY, Jan. 19 (PIA) – The Civil Service Commission (CSC) released recently a memorandum circular (MC) urging its regional offices and field offices and national line agencies to support the full implementation of the Graphic Health Warnings (GHW) Law.

Under the law, all cigarette packs in the country must bear graphical warnings about the dangers of tabacco smoke, as prescribed.

The CSC's MC No. 27, s. 2016 urges the entire civil service to be one in celebrating the event by posting the GHW tarpaulin (“Full Blast Na! Bawal na ang text lang. Dapat Graphic Health Warnings!”) in their respective office premises, including regional and field offices.

The template for this 3.5ft x 5ft tarpaulin can be found in the following Internet links: http://csc.gov.ph(Official website of the CSC), http://doh.gov.ph (Official website of DOH), https://www.facebook.com/smokefree.civilservice (facebook page of the CSC-Project Management Unit).

“In coordination with the Department of Health (DOH), the Civil Service Commission (CSC) enjoins all government agencies in supporting the full implementation of Republic Act No. 10643 or The Graphic Warning Law," said CSC Caraga regional director Resurreccion P. Pueyo.

The implementation of the law started on March 6, 2016, and all tabacco smoke products shall carry graphic health warnings by November 4, 2016. Non-compliant packages found in the market for sale or distribution shall be subject to removal and/or confiscation. (PIA-Caraga)

Agusan del Norte barangays receive rescue vehicles

By Aimee B. Sienes

BUTUAN CITY, Jan. 19 (PIA) - The provincial government of Agusan del Norte through the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council turned over six rescue vehicles to six barangays of the province during the convocation on Jan. 16 at the Capitol grounds.

Provincial Vice Governor Ramon AG. Bungabong, together with Provincial Board Members Elizabeth Marie R. Calo, Dick Victor B. Carmona and Virgilio R. Escasinas, Jr. turned over the rescue vehicles to Barangay Captain Lucita G. Estrada of Barangay E. Morgado, Barangay Captain Carlito M. Balinos, Jr. of Barangay Tagbuyacan, Barangay Captain Benjamin D. Lim of Barangay La Paz, all of the municipality of Santiago, Barangay Captain Alberto R. Japitana of Barangay Poblacion and barangay officials of Barangay Lawan-Lawan, municipality of Las Nieves, and barangay officials of Barangay La Fraternidad, municipality of Tubay.

Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba was authorized by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan through Sanggunian Resolution No. 013-2017, authored by Provincial Board Member Aquino W. Gambe, to sign for and in behalf of the province the Memoranda of Agreements by and among the province and the said barangay governments for the acquisition, receipt and utilization of the rescue vehicles.

The provincial government is committed to assist its component local government units in the delivery of basic services to its constituents. It ensured that incidents within the locality are properly addressed especially during times of calamities and emergencies. (LGU Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte) 

Wednesday, January 18, 2017

DOTr Caraga chief assures release of pending drivers’ license plastic cards

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Jan. 18 (PIA) – “We assure the general public that starting next week, our office will be starting the lamination and release of the pending drivers’ license plastic cards in the region."

This was the statement of Department of Transportation (DOTr) Caraga regional director Datu Alexander Mama-o during a press conference held recently at their regional office here.

Along with his senior personnel, Dir. Mama-o also bared significant accomplishments of their agency, as well as their new directives and plan of action for this year on law enforcement and other franchising-related matters.

It was learned that the pending plastic card drivers' license from August 2015 to January 13, 2017 has reached to a total of 81,901 for the Caraga region. Breakdown are as follows: Butuan City (36,642); Surigao City (26,087); Bislig City (6,200); Cabadbaran City (1,040); Tandag City (11,932).

On the issue of backlogs on the release of plastic drivers license, Dir. Mama-o stressed that they are working on the provision of the number of IDs as they were also assured by their central office on the supply of the plastic IDs.

“We were assured by our central office that they will help us in the supply of plastic cards and other needed logistics to complete the release of the pending drivers’ license. Hopefully, we can finish the release of said pending licenses within this year,” Dir. Mama-o underlined.

It was also learned that some 3,000 plates (private for hire, motor vehicles, utility vehicles) are also pending for release, while there is yet a supply of stickers for this year 2017.

“For the pending vehicle plates, we can assure the public that we will release it within the first quarter of this year,” reiterated Mama-o. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

DOTr Caraga intensifies campaign against ‘fixers’

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Jan. 18 (PIA) – With its newly installed regional director, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) Caraga has intensified its campaign against ‘fixers’ inside their agency.

Maria Kristina Cassion, division manager of Planning and Technical Services Division of DOTr Caraga bared that their office is serious in implementing its campaign against fixers, who do illegal transactions with the clientele that also bring bad name to the agency.

“We are putting substance in our mandate and we will not tolerate personnel committing violations and doing illegal transactions,” highlighted Cassion.

Cassion also stressed that their office will be putting up additional closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras within the vicinity of their regional office to monitor closely the transactions of their personnel while at work. Cassion said this is also one way of implementing their anti-fixing mitigation measures.

The DOTr is the primary policy, planning, programming, coordinating, implementing and administrative entity of the executive branch of the government on the promotion, development and regulation of a dependable and coordinated network of transportation system, as well as in the fast, safe, efficient and reliable transportation service. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Cabadbaran City to hold jobs fair

By Nora C. Lanuza

CABADBARAN CITY, Agusan del Norte, Jan. 18 (PIA) – As part of this year’s Dagkot Festival celebration, the city government here in coordination with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) is now ready for the conduct of the Jobs Fair.

The activity, which is scheduled on January 29 from 8:00 A.M. up to 5:00 P.M., will be held at the Social Hall, People’s Government Center, this city.

According to city mayor Katrina Marie O. Mortola, one of the focuses of her administration is to provide employment to Cabadbaranons because she feels how hard and difficult it is for a member of a family without any earnings or job.

Mayor Mortola further said that the Jobs Fair is not only open for Cabadbaranons but also to other Agusanons, and even interested individuals from the different provinces of Caraga region. Available jobs during the fair include those from local employers and abroad.

“This is a rare activity (Jobs Fair) that is intended to all of you,” Mortola said.

For interested individuals, bring with you your Resumé, ID Picture (2x2, 1x1), and credentials (TOR, etc.).

For additional information, visit the City Planning and Development Office, City Hall building, Cabadbaran City or call 0998 5796805.

The Dagkot Festival is scheduled from January 27 to February 2. It is a religious festival in honor of Nuestra Señora Candelaria (Patron of Cabadbaran). The festival is held in the city every 2nd of February. Dagkot is derived from the local word that means "lighting a candle." (NCLM with a report from LGU-Cabadbaran City/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Olympic silver medalist to light CRAM's friendship urn in Tandag City

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Jan. 18 (PIA) – Olympic silver medalist Hidilyn Diaz will light the friendship urn during the opening ceremony of the 20th Caraga Regional Athletic Meet (CRAM) on February 12 to be held here.

This was confirmed by Gemma Espadero, Education Program Supervisor (EPS) of Tandag City Division, during the second coordination meeting on Monday at the Provincial Capitol Conference Room, this city.

The urn signifies that values of friendship and true sportsmanship shall rule the games. Said activity will run until Feb. 17, 2017, it was learned.

Meanwhile, Provincial Administrator Efren Rivas, bared that the provincial government of Surigao del Sur thru Governor Vicente Pimentel Jr. gave an additional P2 million financial support from an initial of P5 million assistance.

Both Provincial Administrator Rivas and Provincial Treasurer Officer Crispa Geli who were present during the conference confirmed that the budget allocation has already been certified. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)

MGB-13 steps up IEC campaign on geohazard maps

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Jan. 18 (PIA) - The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) Regional Office 13 continued its Information, Education and Communication (IEC) campaign of the 1:10,000 scale geohazard maps and the presentation of the highlights of the Results of the 1:10K Geohazard Mapping and Assessment in the provinces of Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Norte.

The main purpose of the IEC was to provide the Barangay local government units (LGUs) with 1:10,000 scale geohazard maps and present the highlights of the results of the 1:10K Geohazard Mapping and Assessment. Considering the increasing occurrence of natural disasters, the said IEC fostered and intensified collaborative efforts among the national and local governments and communities to ensure that utmost consciousness, preparedness and response to disasters are achieved.

A total of 215 barangays, six municipalities and two cities were covered by the IEC Campaign.

Municipal and city mayors, provincial and city disaster risk reduction management officers, key officers, members of the municipal and city disaster risk reduction management councils and barangay captains or representatives of the above-mentioned areas were among the participants during the IEC.

During the campaign Romeo M. Dalodado, Geosciences Division chief of MGB-13 informed the participants that MGB will not only distribute the 1:10,000 scale geohazard maps to LGUs but the office will also conduct lectures and map reading exercises.

He explained the importance of geohazard maps especially on the part of Bottom Up Budgeting for LGUs considering that the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) required LGUs to secure a Geohazard Certification for any proposed government projects from MGB prior to the release of its funds/budget.

He added that a geohazard map could be used as a tool for selecting areas to be developed as relocation/evacuation site and could be used in integrating disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation initiatives in development/land use plan of barangays, municipalities and cities.

The highlights of the results of the 1:10,000 scale Landslide and Flood Assessment of the municipalities/cities during the IEC Campaign were presented by the following geologists: Liza T. Pacete – Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte and Del Carmen, Siargao Islands, Surigao del Norte; Ralph Angelo E. Plaza – Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte and Dapa and General Luna, Siargao Islands, Surigao del Norte; Melvin A. Mantilla and Kate A. Boquilon – Socorro, Surigao del Norte; Elaine L. Galido – Bayugan City, Agusan del Norte and San Francisco, Agusan del Sur and Rubenar L. Cagubcob – Bayugan City, Agusan del Norte and Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur.

Recommendations suitable for areas assessed were discussed and provided by MGB-13 in the Landslide and Flood Threat Advisories of each barangays.

On the same note, the MGB-13 personnel distributed the IEC materials regarding landslide, flood, storm surge and other geologic hazards. Apart from intensifying public awareness of natural hazards, the said materials will also aid in the effective and efficient management of disasters and reduction of casualties and damages to lives and properties. (MGB-13/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Army 402nd Brigade chief, subordinates pay New Year’s call on SurSur guv

By Greg Tataro Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Jan. 18 (PIA) – Col. Franco Nemesio  “Jojo” Gacal, 402nd Infantry Brigade Commander of the Philippine Army (PA), with head camp in Surigao del Sur has led the New Year’s call on Governor Vicente “BB” Pimentel, Jr. at the Provincial Governor’s Office (PGO) here at 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday.

The brigade commander was the first to enter the Office of the Governor, had a brief exchange of pleasantries for over a minute or two and then, with the permission from Gov. Pimentel, himself, Gacal called in his party of sub-commanders from deputies, battalions and companies down the line.

Standing by the main door, after having an initial chat with Gacal, Gov. Pimentel welcomed one-by-one the army officers who came in for the occasion.  Then, after taking their respective seats, the cordial ceremony began.

Col. Gacal, apart from having along with him his deputy commanders and some subordinate officers, had also in tow his two battalion commanders and 14 other company commanders.

During the course of the “meet and greet,” Gov. Pimentel told the officers of the brigade headed by Col. Gacal about the six-hectare lot that would house the brigade headquarters.  It was learned that the area was located somewhere in Barangay San Jose, this city.  In return, the brigade chief expressed his thanks.

Since April 2015, the brigade headquarters of the army here has been occupying the same area with the Police Provincial Office (PPO).

Aside from serious and casual talks over insurgency and other matters, Gov. Pimentel also assured the army of his administration’s support.

Meanwhile, towards the end of the New Year’s Call, the presence of Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) Camp in Barangay San Jose, here, was likewise mentioned.  Apparently, it did not sit well with the Governor due to absence of permission.  In response, he advised that signage of its presence had to be taken down.  In addition, the governor was told about the alleged conduct of MNLF’s continued recruitment.

The 402nd Infantry Brigade has the two Surigao provinces as well as the Province of Dinagat Islands as area of responsibility (AOR). (Radyo ng Bayan-Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Tagalog News: Mga naantalang mahigit 80,000 drivers’ license plastic cards sa Caraga region ilalabas na sa susunod na linggo ayon sa DOTr Caraga

Ni Jennifer P. Gaitano

LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Enero 18 (PIA) - Siniguro sa publiko ni Department of Transportation (DOTr) Caraga regional director Datu Alexander Mama-o na sisimulan na sa susunod na linggo ang issuance o lamination ng mga naantalang drivers license plastic cards mula pa noong August 2015 hanggang January 13, 2017.

Ayon kay director Mama-o naipaabot na niya ito sa kanilang central office at buo umano ang suporta nito at sinigurado ring aabot ang supply ng plastic cards sa bilang ng naantalang drivers license sa Caraga region na umabot sa 81,901.

Nabanggit rin ni director Mama-o na may 3,000 plaka ng mga pribadong sasakyan at utility vehicles ang kinakailangan rin masimulan na sa pag-release sa loob ng first quarter nitong taong kasalukuyan. Samantala, wala pa umanong supply ng stickers sa mga sasakyan na nakalaan para sa taong ito.

Dagdag pa ni director Mama-o na mayroong mahigit sa 3,000 unclaimed drivers license na hanggang sa ngayon ay nasa posesyon pa ng kanilang ahensya at ang mga ito umano ay nakompiska dahil sa mga violations ng mga drivers.

Paalala naman ni director Mama-o sa publiko na magreport sa kanilang opisina kung sila’y may alam na empleyado na gumagawa ng ilegal na transaksyon o mga fixers at ito’y aaksyunan nila kaagad.

Magdadagdag rin umano sila ng mga CCTV cameras sa loob at labas ng kanilang opisina upang mas mamonitor ang mga trabaho o transaksyon ng mga cleyente at manggagawa. Isa umano ito sa mga paraan ng kanilang pagtupad sa anti-fixing mitigation measures. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)