Friday, October 23, 2020

Army uncovers CNT hideout in AgNor town

By 1Lt. Roel T. Maglalang

BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte, Oct. 23 --  The troopers of 23rd Infantry “Masigasig” Battalion (23IB) discovered another hideout of the CPP-NPA Terrorist (CNT) in the forested area of Sitio Fatima, Barangay Ibuan, Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte on October 17, 2020, at around 4:00 p.m.

While the troops were conducting security operations, they discovered an abandoned CNT hideout which has an estimated land area of two hundred square meters (200m) that can accommodate more or less 20 persons and believed to be abandoned for about a month ago prior to discovery.

The government troops also seized in said abandoned hideout 20 rolls of Blasting Cap Leg Wire; one D-Size Battery (Eveready); and one small Plastic Box.

 Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, the Acting Commanding Officer of 23IB, expressed his gladness on the continuous recovery of CNT hideouts stating that they will be having a hard time to adjust in their present situation.

“As we can see, these CNTs have been leaving their hideouts and they cannot settle in a stable place because surely, the troops will always locate them wherever they hide. I don’t know how deep the CNT propagandas have rooted in the soul of the NPAs why they still choose to suffer living in the mountains. I cannot imagine why they choose to live in those temporary-built hideouts which cannot even protect them nor provide convenience to their daily living, where in fact, they can go back to their respective homes and live a peaceful life with their families,” Paulo said.

He also called on the people of Barangay Ibuan, be vigilant on the activities of the CNTs whom he described as traitors for their continued disrespect of human rights.

“These CNT members are killers as they always have that intention to kill, not only the government forces but also the innocent civilians, especially the Indigenous Peoples (IPs),” Paulo said.

He emphasized that the recovered blasting caps, leg wires and other war parapernalias are proofs of CNTs continued production and use of the banned Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) which brings great threat not only to the government forces but also to the innocent civilians. 

“We encourage everyone to stop supporting their group whenever they will go back to the said hideout. Report it immediately to us in order to prevent them from conducting atrocities in your peaceful community. Let us help one another to end this insurgency that affects the lives of most Filipinos,” Paulo said. (CMO Officer, 23IB, PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)

Army, PNP intercept explosives, food supplies in SurSur town

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Oct. 23 (PIA) -- Local authorities have intercepted a green Fuso canter truck (Plate No. RFT 250) carrying explosives, and groceries and food supplies believed to be headed for the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) camp recently in the province.

According to the report from the 36th Infantry Battalion (36IB), around 1:45pm, Oct. 14, the 36IB troopers and the Provincial Mobile Force Company (PMFP) at a checkpoint along the National Highway of Brgy. Zone 3, Lanuza flagged down a cargo truck loaded with various items.

Prior to the incident, the 36IB troopers had coordinated with the Municipal Police Station of Lanuza for they were tipped about the transport of the goods by civilian informants. After more than an hour, the team successfully intercepted the cargo truck.

The arrested suspects were identified as Marcelo Ramos Omos, driver; Ramil Pan Berezo, mason/carpenter; Marlon Febra Cervantes, laborer; Joey Mercansel Silagan, carpenter; Brian Balatero Paglinawan, laborer. They were brought to the Lanuza Municipal Police Station (MPS) for investigation.

The authorities seized the following items: two improvised bombs; one Bagong Hukbong Bayan flag; 20 pairs of black rubber boots; three sacks of rice; one sack of flour; one half (½) sack of salt; 20 packs “Odong”; 30 Bioderm bath soaps; one box mega sardines; 20 pairs of black socks; nine packs sanitary napkin; six pieces of men’s underwear; 20 kilos brown sugar; Five bags of Super Lamig Menthol Candy; 10 bags of Nescafe stick; Four bags Nescafe 3n1; two gallons cooking oil; one-gallon soy sauce; Five empty plastic containers; and six cellophane sacks.

According to 36IB commander Lt. Col. Jezreel Diagmel, they have already closely monitored the companies or business firms/contractors, politicians, and other supporters from the different sectors based on the profile they have on the record.

Lt. Col. Diagmel added that the relentless conduct of checkpoints of the PNP and AFP and other stakeholders has paid off in stopping the flow of supplies towards the NPA terrorists.

"This resource control operation will continue in order to put a stop to this scheme of the armed group targeting particularly the contractors, politicians, business firms, and individuals," he said.

"We urged them to stop supporting the armed struggle instead, support our government. We will institute security measures together with the PNP to safeguard the flagship projects in our area of operations," Lt. Col. Diagmel added. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Thursday, October 22, 2020

Olympic-size swimming pool opens in Surigao del Norte

By Venus L. Garcia

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Oct. 22 (PIA) -- The province of Surigao del Norte takes pride of its newly inaugurated Olympic-size swimming pool inside the provincial sports complex.

The opening of the 50-meter swimming pool strengthens the initiative of the provincial government in promoting optimal health and wellness of the locals through sports amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The simple celebration started with a motorcade along the major thoroughfares heading towards the provincial sports complex. Surigao del Norte Gov. Francisco Matugas led the inauguration together with other local officials of the province and local government unit of Surigao City.

According to Edwin Ausa, the provincial wellness, sports and youth development officer, the opening of the swimming pool will entice more individuals especially the youth to engage in sports activities and is also an ideal venue for recreation of Surigaonons.

He said that using sports as a vehicle to attract young people could help in keeping them away from bad vices.

“Basically, this swimming pool will cater all those who are here in the mainland. I’m sure in the future we can have superstars in terms of swimming,” he said.

In the meantime, temporary closure of the sports complex is imposed as a mitigating measure due to the pandemic. (VLG/SDR/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

PH manufacturers ensure quality infra materials

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 22 (PIA) -- As a way to express their full support of the government’s prioritization of local products and construction materials for infrastructure and public works projects, as provided for in the recently signed Bayanihan to Recover as One Act or Bayanihan 2, the Pioneer Float Glass Manufacturing Incorporated (PFGMI), together with Puyat Steel Corporation (PSC) and Sonic Steel Industries Incorporated (SSII), have joined the Cement Manufacturers’ Association of the Philippines (CeMAP) and Philippine Iron and Steel Institute (PISI) in ensuring quality and adequate supply of locally-made construction materials.

Since the onset of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) crisis, CeMAP and PISI, whose members include PSC and SSII, and PFGMI have stood in solidarity with government leaders and key industry stakeholders in striking a delicate balance between navigating the health crisis and keeping the economy afloat.

Through this partnering effort and unwavering commitment, many Filipino jobs were preserved and this placed the country on the road to economic recovery.

With the use of local building materials, such as cement, steel, and glass for the ongoing Build Build Build (BBB) program, these industries can fully help support the nation’s economic recovery by continuing to generate employment, contributing to the national income through taxes, and ensuring that the multiplier effect of supporting local businesses is fully taken advantage of.

“The Philippine building materials industries, especially the cement industry, is confident and ready to ensure that our Philippine infrastructure projects will have adequate materials supply from companies that are proud to be manufacturing locally,” said CeMAP Executive Director Cirilo Pestaño.

“Likewise, the steel industry is ready to assure that our local projects will receive the best quality of building materials, including Philippine steel, available for the government’s ongoing and upcoming projects. As an industry, we are ready to do our part and play a key role in the swift economic recovery of the nation,” PISI President Ronald C. Magsajo also added.

PSC Executive Vice President Eugenio R. Puyat II also emphasized that PSC fully supports the government’s prioritization of Philippine manufactured products and construction materials for infrastructure and public works projects.

"Philippine funded projects, as well as all other projects, must give preference to Philippine manufactured products as long as it meets quality standards required,” he underscored.

Meanwhile, PFGMI President and CEO Paul Vincent Go highlighted that “in solidarity with the cement and steel industry, PFGMI as the leading domestic manufacturer of float glass in the Philippines, guarantees the availability of glass products of the highest quality to its key customers, which includes the downstream wholesale glass supply market, to support domestic demand for institutional, industrial, and residential glass products.” (JPG/PIA-Caraga) 

CeMAP promotes high-quality local cement products

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 22 (PIA) - With its commitment to serve and ensure quality to the Filipino cement consumers, the Cement Manufacturers Association of the Philippines (CeMAP) eyes counter-checking cement products to ensure that these are truly manufactured locally.

In CeMAP’s press statement, the company cited that there have been reports of malicious and inappropriately labelled cement products circulating in the different parts of the country. This was brought to the attention of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) the cement bags of Union V Super Strength 40 manufactured by Philcement Corporation.

Based on the CeMAP’s report to DTI dated January 28, 2020, the said cement bags produced by Philcement Corporation were labelled “Product of the Philippines”. CeMAP elaborated that it is publicly known that Philicement Corporation is one of the companies engaged in cement importation.

“Further, the PS License Number was not printed on the bags and that the Batch Identification Number and Manufacturing Date were not understandable to consumers, both of which are required by the Philippine National Standards (PNS),” said Cirilo Pestaño, CeMAP executive director.

Pestaño emphasized that CeMAP simply wants to know if all of Philcement’s products are indeed manufactured in the Philippines as indicated on their cement bags. Philcement is yet to respond to the query. Meanwhile, concerned government offices are urged to conduct a thorough investigation on the matter.

“We strongly advocate for the provision of accurate information to the public to facilitate sound choice and the proper exercise of consumer rights. To enable faster economic recovery, the government is promoting use of locally manufactured products to preserve jobs and make the most of the multiplier effect and contribution of domestic manufacturing activities to the Philippine economy. It is therefore imperative that products sold in the market, like cement, are appropriately labelled and represented as such,” added Pestaño.

CeMAP further pointed out that this concern is in line with their commitment to work with all stakeholders in promoting consumer welfare and protection as part of their advocacy and for the safety and overall benefit of Filipino cement consumers.

The Cement Manufacturers' Association of the Philippines (CeMAP) was established in 1973 with the aim of pooling the cement industry's resources to ensure the industry's growth and share in the development of the Philippine economy.

The association's main responsibilities include consistently monitoring the quality of cement produced by local manufacturers, promoting strict compliance with recognized quality standards, and advocation in adherence to environmental standards in the production of cement. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

FRs complete TESDA training on land prep

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 22 – A total of 24 former rebels (FRs) in Agusan del Norte have completed the skills training given by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

TESDA-Agusan del Norte Provincial Director Rey M. Cueva said the FRs underwent 9-day training on Land Preparation leading to Organic Agriculture Production.  “Participants are 24 FRs and are under the custody of the 23rd Infantry Battalion, 29th Infantry Battalion and the Philippine National Police,” he said.

The official added like the 16 personnel of the Agusan del Norte Provincial Hospital who underwent training on Prepare and Produce Bakery Products and the 11 personnel who finished skills training in Prepare Dining Area for Service, after the Land Preparation, training on Organic Agriculture Production will follow.

Later on, the official pointed out that the provincial government, in partnership with TESDA-Agusan del Norte has already laid down its plan to create a mini-organic farm right at the training site located at the back of the provincial hospital to ensure self-sufficient in providing food to the patients and the personnel as well.

Dir. Cueva further said this is still part of the 109th anniversary celebration of the Agusan del Norte Provincial Hospital through the Office of Congresswoman Ma. Angelica Rosedell Amante-Matba of the 2nd District, as well as the Provincial Government through Governor Dale B. Corvera.

It was also made possible through the Agusan del Norte Provincial Hospital through Provincial Health Officer I – Dr. Odelio Y. Ferrer, Agusan del Norte Provincial Administrator Gerry Joey P. Laurito, and TESDA-Agusan del Norte Provincial Office.

Under the land preparation, the scope of the training focused on clearing, plowing, harrowing and farrowing of the land, it was learned.

Land preparation is a farm activity typically involves plowing, harrowing, and leveling the field to make it suitable for crop establishment. (TESDA Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)

Agusan Norte guv to fund .5M PRLEC enterprise dev’t projects

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 22 – Agusan del Norte Governor Dale B. Corvera said the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) will fund the enterprise development projects of the Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) which totaled half-a-million pesos.

In a meeting held Tuesday at the Provincial Covered Court with Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)-Agusan del Norte Provincial Director Rey M. Cueva and Provincial Administrator Joey Gerry Laurito, Gov. Corvera assured that he will support the PRLEC enterprise development projects and will give funds for its establishment.

Gov. Corvera added this will be made possible through the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) who is also very supportive of peace and development causes.

Dir. Cueva said among the projects to be established is the habal-habal spare parts store and vulcanizing shop in Sitio Zapanta Valley, Bangayan, Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte amounting to P100,000.00.

Also, a bakery and refreshment will soon be established in the area with an estimated amount of P75,000.00, as well as barbershop and salon that will cost P40,000.00, while a Gulayan/Bagsakan Center that will process fruits and vegetable products amounting to P35,000.00 will also form part of the lined-up projects.

Meanwhile, in San Antonio, Remedios T. Romualdez (RTR) town, a restaurant/kiosk will be established soon. The project will cost P100,000.00. Another project is the beads-making and souvenir items which costs P50,000.00.

In a related development, a bakery and refreshment amounting to P50,000.00 will be put up in Brgy. Simbalan, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte. Likewise, beads-making and souvenir items which costs P50,000.00 will also be put up in the area.

This undertaking shows that the official has fully supported the PRLEC and TESDA in its quest to achieve a long-lasting peace and development in the province of Agusan del Norte. (TESDA Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)

NPA terrorists arrested in Surigao del Norte

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Oct. 22 -- Two active members of the communist terrorist group (CTG) fell into the hands of the authorities following their arrest in Purok 1, Barangay Marayag, Mainit, Surigao del Norte on October 3.

Based on the report, the arrested communist New People’s Army (NPA) terrorists were identified as Regil D. Dano also known as Pluto,  37 years old, an active member of SYP21C, Guerilla Front 21 and his brother Erwin “Benz” D. Dano, 23 years old, an active member of SDG21, Guerilla Front 21.

Regil, listed as top three most wanted in Police Regional Office 13, was apprehended by virtue of warrant of arrest for the crime of murder issued by Judge Marigel S. Dagani-Hugo of Branch 3, Butuan City Regional Trial Court dated July 22, 2020 while Erwin Dano was arrested for violation of Republic Act 9516 or Illegal Possession of Explosive. Both personalities are residents of Sitio Dugyaman, Brgy Anticala, Butuan City.

Lt. Col. Isagani Criste, Battalion Commander of 29th Infantry (Matatag) Battalion, said that the operation was conducted by combined elements of 29IB and Philippine National Police in response to the information received about the presence of the wanted persons in the said barangay. 

Meanwhile, Col. George Banzon, Commander of 901st Infantry (Fight’Em) Brigade, commended the soldiers and police for the successful joint operation made possible by the cooperation of the concerned individuals who provided the reliable information.

“It is a clear manifestation that the people of Caraga are tired already of NPA terrorists’ wrongdoings specifically their involvement in the unlawful activities such as extortion, arson, murder, kidnapping and other related crimes as well as victimizing innocent civilians by luring them to join senseless armed struggle,” he said.

Col. Banzon further said that joint operations with other law enforcement agencies will be intensified against the communist terrorist group to further speed up the imminent defeat of the insurgents so that peace and security will be ensured.

“We in the security sector are merging our efforts to materialize our mandates in this whole-of-the-nation approach to eradicate CTGs. In line with this, we are urging the public to continue your support so that we can sustain what we have started here in Caraga," he said. (901st Infantry Brigade, Phil. Army/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Mga ahensya ng gobyerno, nagkaisa laban sa smuggling

By Caroline Ann D. Rodero

LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Oktubre 22 -- Pormal na lumagda sa ginanap na virtual Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing noong Martes, Oktubre 20, 2020 ang 31 na mga ahensya ng gobyerno para sa implementasyon ng Inter-Agency Coordinated Border Management Committee (ICBMC).

Pinangunahan ni Bureau of Customs Commissioner Rey Leonardo B. Guerero ang paglagda sa kasunduan.

Kabilang sa mga ahensya ng Department of Agriculture na nakiisa sa nabanggit na MOU signing ang mga sumusunod: Bureau of Animal Industry, Bureau of Plant Industry, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, National Food Authority, National Meat Inspection Service, Sugar Regulatory Administration at National Tobacco Administration.

Layunin ng ICBMC na sa pamamagitan ng bukas na ugnayan sa pagitan ng iba’t-ibang ahensya ng gobyerno ay masawata ang smuggling sa Pilipinas. Pinagkaisahan ng mga bumubuo ng OCBMC na gumawa ng operational protocol para sa implementasyon ng enhance border security. Maliban dito, mapagtitibay nito ang kooperasyon at koordinasyon ng mga ahensya ng gobyerno na may mga mahahalagang tungkuling ginagampanan upang masiguro ang border protection.

Ang nasabing programa ay magbibigay daan din upang  maiiwasan ang pagpasok ng mga sakit na maaaring makaapekto sa sektor ng agrikultura. (DA-BAI/PIA-Caraga)

Wednesday, October 21, 2020

Caraga IPs benefit from government’s road construction

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 21 (PIA) -- Since the start of construction of the Cabadbaran-Puting Bato-Lanuza road in year 2015, the Mamanwa tribe has also vacated their former places and started living on a nipa hut along the highways.

These are the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) from the mountainous areas in the provinces of Agusan del Norte and Surigao del Sur, wherein insurgency was the main problem.

With this project, the ancestral domains of the IPs are now accessible, and it gives hope to the IP communities, as well as to the next generations that their culture and tradition be known to other people.

According to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), many of the IP communities have already benefited from the government’s road construction effort.

“I’m happy that our government was able to provide our IPs the much-needed road construction from the metropolis connecting different places going to the mountainous areas. They felt that the government has never forgotten them,” said Engr. Pol Delos Santos, regional director of DPWH-Caraga.

The IPs, he added, were thankful as they could now bring and deliver their products to the market conveniently. “They are happy because they are now able to sell their products on a higher price and transportation is no longer a difficulty for them,” he bared.

The construction of the flood control projects is also underway.

The construction of the river bank protection in Agusan River, Maningalao section in the municipality of Las Nieves is also expected to be completed by next month.

Meanwhile, the dike in Bangonay River in the municipality of Jabonga with 962 meters is now at 77.23 percent complete and full completion is expected by February of next year. This particular project will protect the residents and their farm against possible floodings.

Along with this is the construction of the seven isolation facilities in various LGUs of the region. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Cebu City SK gives aid for distance learning implementation

By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 21 (PIA) -- Youth leaders in Cebu City are now launching initiatives to better implement distance learning in the city and assist learners in adapting to the new modes of learning, especially those who have little to no means to access it.

During her guesting in the Bisaya Gyud program with Communications chief Secretary Martin Andanar on Saturday, Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Federation president Jessica Resch said that the city's SK Federation was able to provide free uniform and school supplies upon the opening of the new school year through the P1 million financial assistance from the city government.

An e-learning hub called “Thinking Space” was established equipped with computer sets with internet connection and printers. Students enrolled in the online learning and modular system may avail of the services offered by the hub. The said project is in line with the youth group’s Assist sa Balik Eskwela (ABE) initiative.

Aside from the mentioned COVID-19 initiatives, other projects for other pressing concerns such as employment and substance abuse prevention will also be launched.

“We also wanted to give equitable access to quality education and also create projects to tackle disaster risk reduction and resilience. Amid this pandemic, we also want to address the provision of youth employment and livelihood and even health and anti-drug abuse. Other initiatives for COVID-19 response will also be launched,” added the youth leader.

At the conclusion of the program, Councilor Resch urged her fellow youth and youth leaders to remain steadfast amid the pandemic and “take the lead” in adapting to the new normal.

“While this pandemic is a phenomenon that is completely foreign to us, let us not falter and instead make the effort to take the lead as we embrace the new normal,” she said.

The SK leader also emphasized that the youth’s engagement should not just be within the period of the pandemic.

“Even after this pandemic, we should continue to support meaningful youth engagement and participation in enabling sustainable development and contribute to nation building. In fact, the pandemic should only serve as a catalyst for us to unleash our full potential as youth leaders in this proud country,” she affirmed.

Bisaya Gyud is a weekly public service and entertainment program hosted by the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar aired on select radio stations across the country and streamed live on its official Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/bisayagyudph, every Saturday.

The program was initially launched to provide assistance to underprivileged Bisaya and Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). At the height of the pandemic, the program also devoted its episodes to addressing various issues of the Bisayas concerning the pandemic.

The program also explores Bisaya music and artists, and features Bisaya success stories. (DMNR/PIA-Caraga)

Aspiring inventors in Caraga join local online makers’ competition

By Doreen Marielle N. Rosales

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 21 (PIA) -- Aspiring inventors in Caraga region take part in an online makers’ challenge launched by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Caraga.

Dubbed as “Outsmarting COVID-19: Online Makers’ Challenge,” the contest served as an avenue for those who hold an interest in innovating to exhibit their brilliance by creating inventions that can help address the pressing issues faced during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Inventions of all sorts were submitted, with entries ranging from alcohol made from local plants to the automated queuing machine to monitor the required capacity establishments are made to follow to operate.

The latter was a brainchild of Mar Louise Pazo, a Carmen town native and college freshmen who bagged the first place in the Student Category. According to him, establishments in their area remain crowded despite the imposed minimum health protocol. Even with police officers and barangay officials monitoring the area, residents fail to observe physical distancing.

“Then an idea hit me – what if I made a machine that can enable people to observe physical distancing? The machine I invented was just very simple. I didn’t expect to win because I wasn’t even sure if it was appealing enough. Winning the contest was surreal to me,” the young inventor said.

His winning invention, an automated customer queuing counter, helps establishments observe the required limited capacity to operate by detecting the number of customers who go in and out of the establishment using ultrasonic sensors attached in both the entry and exit points. A green bulb signals the customers to come in while a red light flickers to notify customers that the establishment is full, activating an alarm to indicate that the required capacity has been reached.

Meanwhile, for the computer engineer Gideon Buniel, his aspiration to be of service to the community through his inventions motivated him to partake in the contest. Gaining prestige was the least of his concerns.

“As an engineer, I feel the need to take part in bettering the community. When I make projects, I do not think of the monetary gain but rather focus on the positive impact it can have on the people around me. This became even more relevant now that we are all dealing with this health crisis. I want to be of help especially to those who were greatly affected by the pandemic, particularly those who do not have the resources to access these technological advancements,” the engineer elaborated.

His entries include the i-Throw: An Internet of Things (IoT) Touchless Garbage Robot, a trash bin attached with sensors that flips the bin open upon detecting motion. It also comes with three light-emitting diode (LED) indicators to detect the amount of trash in the bin and a buzzer to signal that the bin is full. A web server will be used to monitor the trash bin’s activity.

Another invention called the Project 1M: A Do-It-Yourself Physical Distancing Accurate Rechargeable Face Shield, is a face shield that helps its user observe the 1-meter physical distancing protocol. An ultrasonic sensor detects the distance between its user and persons of close proximity. Its green LED will light up when the required physical distance has been complied while a red LED with a buzzer will be activated when the said distance is violated.  The said inventions landed him in the second and third places in the Open Category.

Overcoming obstacles was one of the highlights of Zebina Genoring and Shena Tanasas’ experience upon joining the contest. Addressing the scarcity of disinfectant and sanitizing products in their hometown in Lanuza, Surigao del Sur was what pushed them to make the Nipahol Antiseptic/Disinfectant.

The college freshmen participants reiterated that looking for laboratory equipment to extract the nipa, a plant abundant in their area used to make the alcohol, was their biggest challenge.  This almost discouraged them to continue their participation in the contest.  But with the help of the municipal government, the Rural Health Unit (RHU), and the Sitio Ipil Winemakers Association (SIWA), the nipa-derived alcohol was successfully manufactured, landing the second place in the Student Category.

The experiences of both participants during the contest only made them realize how truly challenging it can be for anyone who aspires to become inventors. And for Zebina, it is important to remember one’s goal behind making their inventions despite the hurdles.

“Just strive harder and do not let your determination be swayed by the obstacles and challenges that may come your way. Whatever happens, maintain optimism and pursue your passion in inventing,” the student inventor added.

When asked about the future of their inventions, all participants expressed that they are open to opportunities for possible collaborations and even have their creations funded and have it available for public consumption.

A P30,000 cash prize was given to first place winners, P20,000 for second placers, and P10,000 for third placers. (DMNR/PIA-Caraga)  

Secretary Dar: Meat safety is a shared responsibility

By Roberta L. Riguer

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 21 -- Department of Agriculture Secretary William Dar, in a speech delivered yesterday, Oct. 20, during the opening ceremony of Meat Safety Consciousness Week at the National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS) Salvador H. Escudero Hall, expressed his appreciation to the employees of NMIS for their impressive performance in ensuring meat safety.

“Food Safety, particularly, meat safety is a shared responsibility,” Secretary Dar said.

He also emphasized that the NMIS is the first responder whenever meat safety is compromised. “It is during these times that the NMIS must take the opportunity to empower the local government units’ capabilities to ensure the safety of meat in their localities,” he added.

He encouraged the NMIS to strengthen its partnership with stakeholders. “I acknowledge that you do not have the numbers to fully complement the immensity of your responsibility in ensuring safe meat that is why you have to build a strong partnership with your stakeholders,“ he furthered.

Secretary Dar also encouraged the NMIS employees that they must put the interest of the public and the country above all else in the performance of their duty.  He also reminded them not to besmirch the integrity of NMIS when they deliver their mandated services to the public.

Secretary Dar also commended the NMIS in instituting measures to make sure that meat will reach the market, whether they are sold in physical markets or online, in good condition.

“In this trying time, no matter what difficulty we are in, whether in a pandemic or not, we proceed head-on. We must not be distracted by the difficulties. As part of the government, we are mandated to fulfill our duties and functions as the gatekeeper of safe meat.  After all, we have sworn to protect the public against direct and indirect hazards brought by unsafe meat," Secretary Dar emphasized. (DA-NMIS/PIA-Caraga)

Tuesday, October 20, 2020

AgSur town implements strict health protocols due to high local transmission cases in nearby LGUs

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Oct. 20 (PIA) -- With the increasing number of local transmission cases in its nearby municipalities, the local government unit of Rosario in the province of Agusan del Sur has geared up the implementation of strict health protocols at the checkpoint.

Even for those who will just pass through the boundary going to other municipalities are still required to undergo the health monitoring procedure at the quarantine control points.

They will be asked to present their identification card and health declaration or medical certificate as proofs that they are not person under monitoring (PUM) or person under investigation (PUI). Checking of body temperature is also done.

For those with incomplete documents, they are automatically denied entry in the municipality of Rosario in view of the marching orders at the control checkpoint.

Dr. Rebecca Aquino, municipal health officer of Rosario, clarified that in this way, the LGU could properly manage the crisis situation and easily tract those who are possible carriers of the virus.

“This health declaration form is for easier conduct of contact tracing. Should there  be people who have gone to a place with confirmed positive cases, it would be easier for our municipal health office to conduct the contact tracing and let the identified individuals undergo the quarantine or we could easily follow them up,” added Dr. Aquino.

As of October 18, no COVID-19 active case was recorded while 12 have already recovered in Rosario.

Apart from the Philippine National Police (PNP), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) personnel are also involved in the daily operation at the checkpoint.

“Our function at the checkpoint is to assist the PNP, BFP in the conduct of thermal scanning and assist the travelers as they fill-out the health declaration form. We also monitor those who travel outside the municipality from the different barangays as each barangay has data on the number of residents traveling in a day,” bared Lolito Idpalina, MDRRMO-Rosario.

With this, the local government unit is continuously reminding the public to wear their face mask and face shield and observe social distancing to avert the spread of COVID-19. (JPG/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

AgSur LGUs, Army recommend 11 villages as insurgency-free

By 1Lt. Percival Carido

TALACOGON, Agusan del Sur, Oct. 20 -- A total of 11 barangays from the municipalities of Esperanza and San Luis of this province have been recommended by the Army's 26th Infantry Battalion (26IB), Philippine Army and the local government units, free from the Communist New People's Army Terrorist (CNT) affectation during the conduct of Community Support Program (CSP) Area Clearing Evaluation (ACE) on October 16, 2020.

After a thorough analysis and spontaneous contribution of ideas from the local chief executive, punong barangays, Philippine National Police, 26IB, and other concerned agencies, Association of Caraga Executives (ACE) Chairperson Col. Cerilo O. Balaoro Jr., deputy brigade commander of 402nd Infantry Brigade, said these barangays passed the parameters set by Joint Letter Directive (JLD) Number 3, revised version,  series of 2020, to be declared as insurgency-free.

Based on CSP teams, these former CNT influenced barangays are Sinakungan, Salug, Nato, Balobo, Guibonon, Oro, Segunda, Maliwanag, Remedios and Kinamaybay of municipality of Esperanza; and Barangay Coalicion of San Luis.

The 11 barangays that passed the evaluation will now undergo validation to be conducted by the Area Clearing Validation Board (ACVB), to finalize if the said barangays have sustained the parameters set as totally free from CNT affectation prior endorsement to National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF- ELCAC), to be set as priority barangays for development in 2021 and on succeeding years.

"This clearing evaluation from CNT affectation is very important because this will pave the way for the entry of development and economic opportunities in every barangay which means even the delivery of basic services by the local government will not be hampered, which is the main struggle if there is a presence of CNTs," Col. Balaoro said, as he explained the reasons on clearing the barangays.

As per JLD No. 3, a barangay will only be declared as insurgency-free when the parameters are met such as the dismantling of CPP-NPA politico-military structure; the denial of CPP-NPA access to the area, resources, and manpower; and the establishment of a functioning barangay information network and integrated community public safety system, among others.

Relatively, Mayor Leonida P. Manpatilan of Esperanza commended the firm affirmation and perspective of the punong barangays in fighting insurgents in their area. "As your local chief executive at the same time your mother here in Esperanza, it hurts me seeing my constituents struggling from fear and discomfort because of the NPA's presence in your area. Hopefully, you and your people will sustain and continue to refute these lawless elements in order for the local and national government to freely pursue and pour all the necessary infrastructures and economic programs, projects in your areas without being hampered by the NPAs," she said.

"We have to unite and work hand in hand in order to defeat these NPAs. As per mandate to us by EO70 to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, inter-agency efforts are deemed necessary to address the issues and concerns being used as deceptive propaganda by the NPAs," added Manpatilan. (CMO, 26IB/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Bayan ng Agusan Sur, mas hinigpitan ang pagpapatupad ng health protocol dahil sa tumataas na local transmission cases 

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Oktubre 20 (PIA) -- Mas hinigpitan pa ngayon ng lokal na pamahalaan ng Rosario sa Agusan del Sur ang pagpapatupad ng checkpoint at health protocol lalo na sa mga pumapasok dito mula sa mga katabing bayan.

Kahit ang mga dumadaan lang dito patungo sa ibang lugar ay maiging isinasailalim sa pagsusuri.

Hinahanapan sila identification card at health declaration o medical certificate na nagpapatunay na hindi sila person under monitoring (PUM) o person under investigation (PUI). Kailangan ding malaman ang kanilang temperatura.

Kapag walang maipakitang dokumento ay hindi ito pinahihintulutang makapasok sa bayan ng Rosario.

Ayon kay Dr. Rebecca Aquino, municipal health officer, kinakailangan itong gawin upang pasigurong maprotektahan ang mga residente laban sa pagkalat ng COVID-19 at upang maging madali ang pagsagawa ng contact tracing.

“Itong health declaration form, para ito sa mas madaling pagsagawa ng contact tracing. Kung sakaling nakapunta ka sa san frans at nagkataon na sa araw ding iyon ay may nag-positive at isasagawa ng probinsya ang contact tracing ay mas magiging madali rin sa ating municipal health office ang pagsagawa ng contact tracing kung sino man ‘yung mga matukoy na indibidwal sa lugar natin para agad silang ma-quarantine o ma-follow up natin sila,” ani ni Dr. Aquino.

Nitong Oktubre 18, walang bagong kaso na naitala sa bayan ng Rosario at labing-dalawa na ang nakarekober.

Bukod sa mga kawani ng Philippine National Police (PNP), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), at Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), aktibo ring nakaantabay ang Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) sa checkpoint.

“Ang function natin ay ang pag-assist sa PNP, sa Bureau of Fire sa pagsagawa ng thermal scanning at sa pag-assist sa mga travelers sa kanilang pag-fill out sa health declaration form. Minomonitor din natin kung ilan ang bumiyahe sa mga barangay dahil ang bawat barangay ay may data na rin kung ilan lang ang kanilang mga residente na may pahintulot na bumiyahe sa ibang lugar tulad ng San Francisco. Sa gabi naman, isinasagawa natin ang disinfection sa checkpoint,” pahayag ni Lolito Idpalina, MDRRMO-Rosario.

Patuloy ding pinaaalalahanan ang publiko sa pagsuot ng face mask at face shield at pagsunod sa social distancing upang hindi mahawaan ng COVID-19. (JPG/PIA-Agusan del Sur)