Thursday, September 6, 2018

Agrarian beneficiaries’ coffee product gets FDA license

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TAGBINA, Surigao del Sur, Sept. 6 (PIA) – The coffee product of Mabuhay Kahayagan Coffee Growers Cooperative (MKCGC) "Café de Tagbina" recently got its License to Operate (LTO) from the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) through the assistance of Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) under the Village Level Processing Center Enhancement Program (VLPCEP).

According to DAR-Surigao del Sur Provincial Agrarian Reform Office Information Officer Myra Yu, the coop is a group of 155 agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) who are producers of robusta variety of coffee, located in Barangay Kahayagan, Tagbina, Surigao del Sur.

 It existed for more than eight years now and a recipient of various DAR projects, such as tractor, power sprayer and flatbed dryer under Agrarian Reform Community Connectivity & Economic Support Service (ARCCESS) program.

Specifically, MKCGC was a recipient of 2015 Village Level Processing Center Enhancement Program (VLPCEP). In 2016, MKCGC was also a recipient of Up-Valuing of Agrarian Reform Beneficiary (ARB) products, Yu said.

"The DAR personnel on the other hand assisted them in the processing and approval of their License to Operate from the FDA of their coffee product," Yu added.

Just last year, MKCGC was identified as one of the direct beneficiaries of the DAR Project ConVERGE that will cater coffee production and various infrastructure projects like farm-to-market road and potable water system.

MKCGC Chairperson Leonardo P. Evangelista acknowledged the efforts and assistance they received from DAR.

“Dako among pasalamat sa mga ahensya nga nagtabang aron molambo ang among kooperatiba ilabi na sa DAR sa pagtabang aron maangkon namo ang among License to Operate gikan sa FDA (We are thankful to the agencies who are helping our cooperative specially to DAR for assisting us in acquiring the LTO from FDA)," said Evangelsita.

Acting PARPO Victor L. Canda, on the other hand, congratulated the officers and members for the achievements they achieved.

“Congratulations to MKCGC for the success of your endeavor. Our office is looking forward that with the license from FDA, the coop can produce more ground coffee, expand its market and earn more income for the benefit of the members,” Canda said in his message during the coops assessment held recently. (PARO-Tandag/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

LGRRC-Caraga hosts OJT's oral presentation

By Emmylou P. Burias

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 6 - The Local Governance Regional Resource Center (LGRRC) XIII recently served as an avenue for the sharing of learnings of the five beneficiaries of the 2018 Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Caraga On-the-Job-Trainees (OJT) Program here.

Three graduating Civil Engineering students from Surigao State College of Technology (SSCT) and one senior Political Science student from St. Paul University Systems (SPUS), all in Surigao City, presented their actual work accomplishments, school subjects applied in work setting, and learnings/reflections on the significance of local governance and public service from their two-month training with the Department.

The panel, composed of DILG Caraga assistant regional director Donald A. Seronay, Local Government Capability Development Division (LGCDD) chief Annabel Yangson, and Regional Project Development Management Unit (RPDMU) team leader Engr. Jojo A. Serenado listened intently as the four OJTs took turns presenting and later interpolated with the students.

SSCT student Ian Rey D. Arreza, who was assigned at the DILG Agusan del Sur Province, said his internship opened his eyes to the difficulties and challenges of engineering field work as he assisted in project inspection and monitoring activities. 

For her part, Cazyljean P. Casiño, also of SSCT and assigned at the DILG Province of Dinagat Islands, shared her realization on the vital role of strict monitoring on project implementation for sustainability and impact to the communities. 

All four OJTs expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to perform tasks and duties relevant to their respective courses, where, each of them was very grateful for the honorarium they received in the amount of Php10,000 per month.

Seronay responded that the DILG Caraga OJT Program under the locally-funded projects (LFPs), which is now on its second year of implementation, aims to enrich the internship of students by exposure to actual field work and introduction to local governance.

He added that with the reciprocal benefits to the partner Local Research Institutes (LRIs) and the Department, DILG Caraga will endeavor to continue implementation of the program which is open to financially challenged but deserving students. (LGOO V, DILG-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Tagalog News: Lungsod ng Tandag handa na sa pagdiriwang ng 409th anibersaryo at 396th na kapistahan nito

Ni Nida Grace P. Barcena

LUNGSOD NG TANDAG, Surigao del Sur, Setyembre 6 (PIA) – Nakahanda na ang lungsod ng Tandag sa pamumuno ni Mayor Alexander T. Pimentel sa pagdiriwang ng ika-409 anibersaryo at ika-396 na kapistahan nito na may tema  “Hiniusang Pangandoy, Hiniusang Lihok Tandag nga Malambuon, Ugma’ng Masanagon!”

Base sa ipinadalang imbitasyon sa Philippine Information Agency, Surigao del Sur Information Center na nakabase sa Tandag, ang pagdiriwang ay bubuksan sa Setyembre 7 at magtatapos sa Setyembre 10, ang araw ng Kapistahan ng Patron ni San Nicolas de Tolentino.

Napag alaman na kaparte ng apat na araw na pagdiriwang ang 6th Sangkaan Festival, kung saan ito ang mag bibigay kulay sa selebrasyon sa araw ng bespiras nito.

Sa unang araw ng selebrasyon, my paradang masasaksihan na magsisimula ng alas siyete ng umaga sa City Park. Ito ay susundan agad ng “PAINSAYAW” (Paindigay sa Sayaw) –“Latino Dance Contest” na gaganapin sa Tandag City Mega Gymnasium. Sa hapon naman masasaksihan ng publiko ang mga Larong Pinoy, samantalang pagsapit ng gabi meron kompetisyon sa Kantahan at Birahe Cha-cha Dance na pagsasalihan ng 21 ka-barangay na sakop ng lungsod.

Sa pangalawang araw ng selebrasyon, masasaksihan ang “2nd ATP Triathlon” na magsisimula ala-siyete ng umaga. Susundan naman ito ng “Kasalan sa Parokya” kinahapunan na idadaos sa Bagong Katedral ng San Nicolas de Tolentino sa Baranggay ng Rosario. Sa gabi naman gaganapin ang Koronasyon ng Ginang Parokya 2018 sa Tandag Mega Gymnasium.

Sa araw ng Besperas, Setyembre 9, sisimulan ang Sangkaan Festival sa pamamagitan ng Street Showdown bandang ala siyete ng umaga, at sa hapon naman ang Theatrical Showdown at Sangkaan Festival Queen 2018.

Batay sa programang ibinahagi, ang pangunahing pandangal na dadalo ay ang representatnte ng unang distrito sa lungsod ng Davao na si Cong. Karlo Alexei Nograles na nakatakdang magbibigay ng kanyang mensahe sa gabi ng Bespiras.

Kasabay nito na masasaksihan ang mga inimbitahang mga selebrite na mgabibigay aliw sa mga manonood gaya nila ni Vina Morales, Billy Crawford, Inday Garutay, Anton Diva, Sheree Bautista, at ang Cueshe Band.

Sa araw ng kapistahan nito, magkakaroon ng misa sa may alas nuybe ng umaga na gaganapin sa bagong Katedral ng San Nicolas de Tolentino. Sa gabi naman magbibigay aliw sa publiko ang Rave Band at ang QCS Band na galling pa ng Cebu, at magtatapos ang selebrasyon sa pamamagitan ng pagpapailaw ng Fireworks sa gaganapin sa Vicente L. Pimentel Sr. Boulevard, sa syudad ng Tandag. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Wednesday, September 5, 2018

Caraga RDC to conduct 'Federalism in Focus' forum

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 5 (PIA) – To address the need to increase awareness of the regional stakeholders on the proposed constitutional change and its implications in the region, on peace in Mindanao and the country’s pursuit to sustainable development, the Caraga Regional Development Council (RDC) has organized a forum dubbed “Federalism in Focus” on September 17, 2018 in one of the local convention centers here.

According to RDC chair and Surigao del Norte Governor Sol Matugas, the forum aims to provide an avenue to disseminate information and engage the regional stakeholders on constructive dialogue on Federalism.

“We have invited former Chief Justice Reynato Puno, head of the Consultative Committee on Charter Change and Dr. Rosario Manasan of the Philippine Institute for Development Studies as our guest speakers,” bared Gov. Matugas.

The lady governor added that the proposed constitutional change, particularly the shift from a unitary to federal form of government, has far reaching implications, which merits discussions to ensure that the Filipino people are well-informed on the proposed changes, as well as its impacts.

Right after the said forum, the 95th RDC Meeting will also follow. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Agusan Norte ARB orgs join Sandugo Trade Expo

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 5 -- Seven agrarian reform beneficiaries’ organizations (ARBOs) joined the recent 2018 Sandugo Trade Expo in Bohol.

They were able to sell all their products and got to meet potential new buyers.

The groups from Culit Multipurpose Coop (CMPC) with their organic beverage, Simbalan Rubber Farmers Ass. Inc. (SRFI) with their Buenas Coffee, Duque Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Coop (DARBC) with their 4-in-1 turmeric, Sto. Niño MPC (SNMPC) with their naturally grown colored rice, Crops Production Services & Marketing Association, Inc. (CROPMAS) with squash strips and canton, Rural Improvement Club of Tagbuyacan (RIC Tagbuyacan) with squash and ube powder, and Libas Farmers Multipurpose Cooperative (LFMPC) with virgin coconut oil participated in the Expo..

The Agusan del Norte ARBOs were able to link with institutional buyers such as the Island City Mall, owned by Alturas Group of Companies, which became interested with all their products.

Other interests came from Pilayre General Merchandise of Cebu for SNMPC’s naturally grown colored rice,  Beey Di Igorot Fitzgerald & Criselda’s Sweet Food Express of Bohol for DARBC’s 4-in-1 Turmeric powder, and SRFI’s robusta ground coffee.

Yadee Native Delicacies of Tacloban City and Dairy Box Ice Cream producer of Bohol became interested with RIC Tagbuyacan's squash, ube, and corn powder.

The five-day Sandugo Trade Expo was held at The Block, Island City Mall, Tagbilaran City, Bohol.

The event has been known to be a reliable sourcing destination in the Visayas as it features a wide selection of quality and innovative locally-made artisanal products that incorporates indigenous materials and designs, plus processed food products carefully selected from various provinces and neighboring regions.

The Department of Trade and Industry Agusan del Norte (DTI AdN) Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) support services unit has been assisting the ARBOs' participation to this expo for the past several years.

DTI AdN CARP Trade and Industry Development Specialist Valentina Orbeta travelled with the ARBO representatives and facilitated their selling and negotiation activities. (DTI-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

DILG-Caraga conducts consultative meeting with local resource institutes

By Ednon John E. Aparicio

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 5 - The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Caraga conducted here on August 28, 2018 a consultative meeting with selected local resource institutes (LRI) in Caraga for the crafting of Capacity Development (CapDev) Intervention for the local government units (LGUs) in the region.

The CapDev Intervention being developed is the response of DILG Caraga to the pressing competency gaps and needs that majority of the LGUs in the region are facing in the planning and implementation of local development projects.

“One of the reasons behind the problems encountered by LGUs in the implementation of local development projects is the lack of technical knowledge of some LGU personnel. This pitfall stems from the fact that most LGUs have poor planning skills that need to be addressed immediately as possible,” said Engr. Jojo A. Serenado of the DILG Caraga Regional Project and Development Unit (RPDMU).

For her part, Dr. Elvira V. Chua of PNU Mindanao said, “we are very willing to be part in the module development of this CapDev that is responsive to the needs of the LGUs. Not just the development but also its delivery and implementation.”

Based on the consultative meeting, the training implementation of Enhancing Local Government Unit Capacity on Planning and Implementation of Local Development Projects will commence on the last week of September 2018.

It will be implemented by two local research institutes project managers who will implement the capacity development program in two clusters of LGUs.

Cluster 1 composed of the municipalities in the provinces of Dinagat Islands and Surigao del Norte will be handled by the Siargao Islands Institute of Technology (SIIT), while Cluster 2 composed of the municipalities of the provinces of Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur will be handled by the Saint Paul University Surigao (SPUS). (Community Development Officer, DILG-Caraga/VLG/PIA-Caraga)

Search is on for 2018 Model OFW Family in Caraga Region

BUTUAN CITY, Sept. 5 - The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) – Regional Welfare Office in Caraga has formally opened the search for this year’s Model OFW Family of the Year Award for Caraga Region.

Regional director Maria Ireen Cambaling of OWWA Caraga said the Model OFW Family of the Year Award – Parangal sa Matatag na Pamilyang OFW or MOFYA, is an annual search of giving due recognition to the outstanding accomplishments of the Overseas Filipino Workers and their families and upholding their best practices in handling family challenges.

“Two outstanding OFW families from Caraga region will be chosen, one from the Land-Based sector and one from the Sea-Based sector, and will represent OWWA Caraga in this year’s National MOFYA search,” she said.

Cambaling also clarified that previous regional MOFYA nominees can be nominated for the second time only after two years; must not be related up to the third degree of consanguinity and affinity to officials and employees of OWWA, Department of Labor and Employment and its attached agencies, and social partners of MOFYA; and must not be a holder of an elective/appointive position in national/local office at the time of nomination.

It was also learned that OFW Family Circles (OFCs), Registered Non-government Organizations (NGOs), People’s Organizations (POs), Religious Organizations and Community-based socio-civic organizations/associations may nominate their Model OFW Family who met the basic qualification requirements, as follows: the OFW is the head of the nuclear family, could be the father or mother, including widow/widower; he/she may be presently employed overseas or former OFW;  he/she is/was an OWWA member; he/she has at least four (4) years of work experience as an OFW; that he/she has returned to the country for good no longer than 10 years at the time of nomination; and with no derogatory record.

Accordingly, nominations from overseas may be accepted provided the family of the nominee is in the Philippines and the OFW family is known as a solid and stable family in the community, financially stable and actively involved in community projects.

The criteria for selection includes the  wholesomeness of OFW Family with 50% points, success in Education or Profession of OFW and/or Family member/s  with 20% points, success in Managing Family Finances  with 10% points, and civic/Community Involvement of OFW and Family  with 20% points.

The deadline for submission of nomination will be on September 15, 2018.

For more information, the OWWA-Caraga office is situated at Nimfa Tiu Bldg. II, J.P. Rosales Avenue, Butuan City or contact their office at (085) 815-1894/09399259895 (smart)/09173150590 (globe). (AJMH/OWWA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Friday, August 31, 2018

PIA, NCCA to highlight cultural performances of Caraga ethnic groups

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 31 (PIA) – To give value the different ethnic groups in Mindanao, especially in Caraga region, the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) and the National Commission on Culture and the Arts (NCCA) in partneship with the city government of Butuan will take center stage the cultural songs and dances of the region's ethnic groups during the Kalinaw Kultura micro launch on August 31, 2018 at the Robinsons Place, this city.

PIA Caraga regional director Abner Caga said Kalinaw Kultura aims to raise public awareness about the rich, diverse, dynamic and colorful Mindanao cultural heritage.

“In Caraga, we are home to several minority groups, rich in culture and traditions. We have here the Manobo, Mandaya, Higaonon, Banwaon, Talaandig, and Mamanwa as the existing tribal groups in the region,” he said.

“Through this momentous event, we hope to develop deep appreciation of Mindanao culture through observation, instruction, and experience of local creative content and talents, as well as promote and encourage preservation of Mindanao’s crafts and creative arts,” Caga added.

Caga also said that PIA Director-General Harold Clavite with invited guests from NCCA will deliver their messages during the event. Agusan del Norte Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell Amante-Matba and Butuan City Mayor Ronnie Vicente Lagnada will also share their messages.

Prior to the formal opening program, a press conference is also set at the same venue.

It can be recalled that the Kalinaw Kultura was first launched on July 26, 2018 at the Robinsons Place Activity Center in Iligan City.

Right after Iligan City and Butuan City, it will also be launched in other key cities such as Davao, Koronadal, and Zamboanga.

Other partner stakeholders of this event include the Department of Education (DepEd) Caraga regional office, DepEd Agusan del Norte and DepEd Surigao del Norte Divisions; Provincial Government of Agusan del Norte; Provincial Government of Agusan del Sur thru its Provincial Tourism Office; Local Government Unit of Carmen, Surigao del Sur; Local Government Unit of Jabonga, Agusan del Norte; Butuan City Tourism Office; National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP); Department of Trade and Industry (DTI); 402nd Brigade – Philippine Army; Robinsons Place Butuan; and Globe My Business.

The Kalinaw Kultura is anchored on the theme “A Culture of Peace, Peace Thru Culture.” (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Thursday, August 30, 2018

Surigao City to commemorate 48th Charter Day anniv

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Aug. 30 (PIA) -- The city government here will commemorate its 48th Charter Day Anniversary on Friday, August 31, in front of the city hall.

This year's celebration, with the theme, "An Surigaonon kuman: Madasigon, Malamboon, Mapasigarbohon,” (Surigaonon today: lively, thriving, proud), will kick-off with a "Diana" at 4:00 a.m, followed by a Thanksgiving Mass at 6:00 a.m. to be held at the City Cathedral. 

The formal opening program will commence at 8:00 a.m. with the singing of the national anthem to be led by the city chorale ensemble, followed by the raising of the Philippine Flag to be led by Surigao City Mayor Ernesto T. Matugas, Governor Sol F. Matugas, Vice Mayor Alfonso S. Casurra, Vice Gov. Arturo Carlos Egay, Jr, all City Councilors and Provincial Board Members.

Department of the Interior and Local Government Undersecretary for Barangay Affairs Martin B. Diño will be the guest of honor during the formal opening program.

One of the highlights in the celebration will be the grand float parade to be participated in by national line agencies, non-government organizations, and the private sector. 

Surigao was converted to a chartered city on August 31, 1970, through Republic Act No. 6134, with Pedro Espina as its first city mayor. (SDR/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

DICT launches Tech4ED center in San Jose town

SAN JOSE, Dinagat Islands, Aug. 30 (PIA) -- The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), in partnership with the Dinagat Islands Computer and Technology Office (DICTO) and Don Jose Ecleo Memorial Foundation College of Science and Technology (DJEMFCST), recently launched the Tech4ED- Rural Impact Sourcing (RIS) Center and RIS Technical Training (RISTT) and RISTT Virtual Assistance Course held at the Provincial Guest Center, Brgy. Cuarinta, San Jose town.

The newly launched facilities and training courses were aimed to promote grassroots development and opportunities for inclusive growth and poverty reduction and to provide access points for individual communities to bridge the digital and education advantage.

DICT Assistant Secretary Alan A. Silor, in his message, said the Tech4ED will give communities access to information, communication, technology, government services, non-formal education, skills training, telehealth, job markets and business portals.

“DICT Rural Impact Sourcing Program is intended to create meaningful ICT- enabled jobs in socio-economically disadvantaged areas in the country. It specifically focuses on areas where there is high population but low employment due to lack of investors,” said Asec. Silor.

The launching was attended by Board Member Joslyn I. Ecleo, Board Member Nilo P. Demerey, DICT Acting Asst. Regional Director for Caraga and Region 10 Engr. Flordelis P. Cabaluna, DICT Surigao del Norte Officer-in-Charge Engr. Ricardo T. Bacolod, Jr., DICT Agusan del Norte and Agusan del Sur acting field team leader Engr. Lawrence P. Salang, RISTT trainer Mr. Ruben Licera, Jr, DJEMFCST Dean Dr. Pacita Orbeta, provincial employees and representatives from national line agencies. (PIO-Dinagat Islands/PIA-Dinagat Islands)

Regional agriculture achievers lauded for outstanding performance

By Vanessa P. Sanchez

BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 30 -- The Department of Agriculture (DA) – Caraga recently awarded this year’s Regional Agriculture Achievers in order to recognize their outstanding performance and contribution to the agriculture sector and to motivate other stakeholders to also do well.

The awarding ceremony was held during the conduct of the 4th Regional Organic Conference on August 16 here.

For the Regional Organic Agriculture (OA) Achievers, the Province of Dinagat Islands (PDI) was awarded as Outstanding Province while Rico Galinato of PDI was awarded as Outstanding Provincial OA Focal Person.

The Municipality of Basilisa was recognized as Outstanding Municipal Local Government Unit while Emeliza R. Ebueza of Basilisa of PDI, Emma P. Lacse of Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte (SDN), and Patricinio G. Moran, Jr. of Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur (ADS) were recognized as Outstanding Municipal OA Focal Person.

On the other hand, Helen I. Dumalagan of Trento, Agusan Del Sur was awarded as Outstanding Agricultural Extension Worker while Engr. Woodrow C. Escobal, Jr. of Surigao City was recognized as Outstanding OA Small Farmer and the Agricultural Machineries Incorporated that Grows Organic (AMIGO) was awarded the Outstanding OA Small Farmer for the Group Category.

The Outstanding OA Farming Family Award was given to Mr. and Mrs. Bertuldo Mejeno’ family of Basilisa, PDI.

The 2018 Rice Achievers’ Awardees include the Municipality of Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte (ADN) as Outstanding Municipal Local Government Unit (MLGU) and Dr. Raul M. Del Agua as Outstanding Municipal Agriculturist.

The Agricultural Extension Workers Awardees include Jocelyn T. Paloma of Kitcharao, (ADN), Basilisa C. Huera of Buenavista, (ADN), Aimee C. Campanilla of Trento, Agusan del Sur; Engr. Myla M. Blanco of Cantilan, Surigao del Sur (SDS); and Agnes C. Alcazar, Thelma A. Burgos, Nestor J. Fuentes, Yazmin A. Aparicio , Merilyn M. Laurenciana, Joan B. Dela Torre, and Segundina O. Ayag, all of Butuan City.

Also awarded were Outstanding Local Farmer Technicians Merly A. Perez of Loreto, ADS and Noel A. Loquinte of San Francisco, Agusan del Sur.

Meanwhile, this year’s roster of Regional Gawad Saka Awardees include Reymund C. Ballena of Surigao City as Outstanding Young Farmer, Outstanding Integrated Rice Farmer Raul P. Basmayor of Mainit, SDN, Outstanding Small Animal Raiser Marvin P. Jinayon of Trento, ADS, Outstanding Corn Farmer Renato M. Frias of Trento, ADS, Outstanding Agri-Entrepreneur Irenea R. Hitgano of JANICAHH Food Products from Trento, Agusan del Sur, and Outstanding Coconut Farmer Narciso Moresca of Barobo, Surigao del Sur.

Another awardee was Lilibeth S. Arce of Surigao City who was recognized as this year’s Outstanding Rural Woman.

The individual awardees received plaques/certificates of recognition as well as cash prizes while the LGU awardees received plaques of recognition and agricultural projects. 

DA-Caraga Field Operations Chief Rebecca R. Atega lauded the awardees for bringing honor to the region and for setting a good example to other stakeholders.

“Your exemplary performance has contributed a lot to all that the agriculture industry in the region has accomplished. May you continue to serve our country well,” she said. (DA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Cebuano News: Dungguan Tourism Hub giablihan sa Nasipit

Ni Aimee Sienes

NASIPIT, Agusan  del Norte, Agosto 30 -- Giablihan na ang Dungguan Tourism and Local Products Hub didto sa Passenger Terminal Building (PTB) sa puerto sa Nasipit sa Barangay Talisay, lungsod sa Nasipit ning lalawigan bag-uhay pa lamang diin gipahigayon usa ka grand launching ug pagpirma sa Memorandum of Agreement kun MOA.

Ang collaborators ug nipirma sa MOA alang sa maong proyekto mao ang Philippine Ports Authority(PPA) - Caraga, Local Government Unit (LGU) sa Nasipit, Department of Trade and Industry - Agusan del Norte (DTI-AdN) pinaagi sa Negosyo Center (NC) Nasipit, Department of Tourism (DOT) - Caraga ug ang local producers group, ang Nasipit Integrated Cooperation of Entrepreneurs (NICE).

Makita sa Dungguan Tourism and Local Products Hub ang a) Tourist Information Corner and Action Desk, b) Tourist/ Executive Lounge, c) Public Suggestion Box, ug d) Nice-operated Pasalubong Corner.

Kaniadto, ang PTB usa lamang ka holding area alang sa mga pasahero nga naghulat nga musakay sa barko diin wala kini maski unsa nga pasilidad alang sa impormasyon sa turismo o mga direksyon asa makapalit sa mga lokal nga produkto o pasalubong nga mada nila sa ilang pamilya ug mga higala. 

Gitubag sa Dungguan Tourism and Local Products Hub ang maong kakulangon.

Tumong usab sa maong proyekto nga mahatag ang panginahanglanon sa mga pasahero ug mga turista nga ma-promote ang local tourist destinations ug mga lokal nga produkto dili lamang sa lalawigan sa Agusan del Norte Apan sa tibuok rehiyon sa Caraga. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Wednesday, August 29, 2018

PCW signs partnership agreement with RDC-RGADC Caraga

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 29 (PIA) – The Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) signed a partnership agreement with the Regional Gender and Development Committee on Thursday at the Oazis Hotel, this city in time with the 7th General Assembly of the Regional Development Council –RGADC Caraga.

“This agreement signing is a renewal of our partnership with RGADC Caraga and we will continue to share resources and expertise in sustaining gender mainstreaming in Caraga region,” said Cecile Gutierrez, PCW deputy executive director for management services.

The PCW thru Gutierrez and Nharleen Santos-Millar, chief GAD specialist, together with RGADC Caraga chairperson and Commission on Human Rights (CHR) regional director lawyer Jerefe Tubigon-Bacang and vice-chair Concepcion Asis signed the Partnership Agreement witnessed by the GAD focal persons from government agencies and private sector.

Gutierrez reiterated that the PCW as the national machinery for gender equality and women’s empowerment is mandated to capacitate all national government agencies and local government units to effectively implement Republic Act 9710 or the Magna Carta of Women (MCW) and further their efforts towards gender equality and women’s empowerment. 

Based on the agreement, among the roles and functions of RGADC include the following: orchestrate mainstreaming of GAD in various development initiatives of the region; sustain its capacity development programs to strengthen its capability towards providing GAD-related technical assistance (TA) to local government units, state universities and colleges and regional line agencies in the region with guidance and support from PCW and the PCW certified National GAD Resource Pool; and utilize/mobilize available expertise, facilities and other resources that can support GAD programs and projects, as well as the implementation of the MCW and other GAD-related policies.

For PCW, they shall assist RGADC Caraga in organizing and providing GAD-related technical assistance in the region and in developing GAD training designs and modules to be used during provision of GAD-related TAs within the region and support the RGADC Caraga by linking it to the appropriate institutons/organizations to access additional resources/programs or projects on GAD in the region, among others.

Also, Bacang expressed her thanks for the unending support of the PCW and their efforts in capacitating the RGADC members.

“We will always look forward on the success of the different activities that we will be conducting together with PCW,” she said.

Along with the partnership agreement signing was the ceremonial certification of the eight identified Technical Advisers on GAD (TAGs) in Caraga from government agencies.

The PCW also hurled the challenge to the eight identified TAGs to continue their advocacy efforts and be able to equip others by the knowledge they would share with the different sectors.

Meanwhile, Nharleen Santos-Millar, chief GAD specialist of the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) cited that the 2nd RGADC Summit (nationwide) is scheduled on Sept. 25-26, 2018 in Manila.

She also encouraged GAD focal persons in Caraga to attend said activity. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

PCW joins RGADC Caraga in 7th General Assembly

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 29 (PIA) – The Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) has joined the members of the Regional Development Council – Regional Gender and Development Committee (RGADC) Caraga in their 7th General Assembly held on Thursday at the Oazis Hotel, this city.

Cecile Gutierrez, deputy executive director for management services of PCW and Nharleen Santos-Millar, chief GAD specialist of PCW participated in the general assembly and shared their updates on GAD-related activities nationwide.

In her message, Gutierrez highlighted the active and continued participation of RGADC members on GAD-related advocacy and activities in the region.

She also emphasized that the RGADC in Caraga has great potentials in promoting gender mainstreaming of programs, linkages, and partnership as it has great number of GAD advocates from various sectors. 

“The PCW will continue to assist you in your regional activities on GAD. We look forward for a more productive GAD focal persons in Caraga and intensify our campaign towards gender mainstreaming,” said Gutierrez.

Gutierrez further bared that under the work plan with the RDC-RGADC Caraga, the following activities will be conducted namely Regional GAD Budget Fora, Strategic Planning, Training of Technical Advisers on GAD/ Deepening session on GAD analysis tools for TAG members, 2nd Caraga GAD focal point system assembly, and conferring of GADtimpala Awards.

Also, lawyer Jerefe Tubigon-Bacang, regional director of the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) and chairperson of RGADC-Caraga, cited the accomplishments of the committee in partnership with PCW for the previous year, which include the conduct of leveling session on basic GAD concepts; GAD planning and budgeting, and conduct of training for technical advisers on GAD (TAGs), wherein eight members/GAD focal persons from the region were identified and certified during the 7th general assembly.

“We are very happy and blessed that the PCW has always been there to assist us in our regional activities and we expect that with our strengthened partnership, we will have more activities together and be able to equip more GAD focal persons in our region,” said Bacang.

In line with the National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security (NAPWPS) localization process in Caraga region by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP), lawyer Bacang also announced that some members of the committee will be joining with OPAPP in the conduct of provincial consultations in the following schedules: Aug. 23-24, 2018 - Surigao del Sur (alternate date: Aug. 28-29); Aug. 30-31 - Agusan del Sur; Sept. 3-4 - Province of Dinagat Islands; Sept. 6-7 - Surigao del Norte; and Sept. 26-27 Agusan del Norte and Butuan City (alternate date: Sept. 24-25, 2018). (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Dureza urges Surigao del Norte rebels to return to civilian life

GIGAQUIT, Surigao del Norte, Aug. 29 - Presidential Peace Adviser Jesus G. Dureza urged local rebels here to stop fighting so that development can continue in the area.

“Ang gusto ng ating Presidente Rodrigo Roa Duterte, kung pwede ‘di na tayo mag-away. ‘Di na tayo magpatayan. Magkaisa na tayo (What President Rodrigo Roa Duterte wants is for us to stop fighting. Let’s stop killing each other. Let’s be united instead),” Dureza said in his message at the inauguration of the LASICAM Bridge in Barangay Sico-Sico on Aug. 28, 2018.

“Magbalik na kayo nang bukal sa inyong puso. Malaki ang suporta sa inyo ng Presidente (Come back to the folds of the law wholeheartedly. The President is giving you a lot of support),” he added.

The bridge passes through the three barangays of Lahi, Sico-Sico, and Camam-onan in the Municipality of Gigaquit — known stronghold corridors of local insurgents in Surigao del Norte for decades.

The project will benefit more than 3,000 residents by giving them access to socio-economic services carried out by the national and local government.

The bridge will also give local farmers and residents better access to market sites.

Dureza said the bridge is part of government’s emphasis on working on peace and development simultaneously.

“You cannot sustain peace if you do not improve the lives of people. Conversely, you cannot also sustain development without peace. Dapat iyan, hand-in-hand,” he said.

For her part, Surigao del Norte Governor Sol Matugas extended her gratitude to the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) for funding the project through the 2015 PAyapa at MAsaganang  PamayaNAn (PAMANA) Program – calling the completed project “Bridge of Hope” (Tulay nan Paglaum).

“Itong tulay ang magsisilbing daan para sa mga bisita. Maraming mga proyekto ang darating upang ang mga nakatira dito ay maging mapayapa at masagana (This bridge will serve as the way for visitors. Many projects will be brought here so that residents can live in peace and prosperity),” Matugas said.

Speaking on behalf of the Mamanwa Tribe within the community, Datu Emilliano Jede recalled how their people endured walking for one whole day just to reach the town proper.

“Dati, pag papunta kaming bayan, magkalakad kami nang isang araw. Ngayon, dahil may kalsada na, sandali lang makakarating na kami sa bayan (We used to spend a whole day walking to the town. With this road, we can reach it in a short time),” Jede said.

All in all, a total of Php210 million was allocated for the implementation of the project. OPAPP tapped the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) as implementing partner.

The inauguration, which coincided with the launch of Caraga Peace and Development Zones that includes Surigao del Norte and Surigao del Sur, attracted nearly 300 attendees, including locals from Barangay Sico-sico and representatives from OPAPP, DILG, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), and the local government units. (OPAPP/PIA-Caraga)