(PAGASA 24-HOUR PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST as of Sunday, 01 December 2024) Northeast Monsoon affecting Eastern section of Northern Luzon. Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) affecting Mindanao. 𝗙𝗒π—₯π—˜π—–π—”π—¦π—§ π—ͺπ—˜π—”π—§π—›π—˜π—₯ π—–π—’π—‘π——π—œπ—§π—œπ—’π—‘: Butuan City, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Norte and Surigao del Sur will experience cloudy skies with scattered rainshowers and thunderstorms due to Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ). Possible flash floods or landslides due to moderate to at times heavy rains. 𝗙𝗒π—₯π—˜π—–π—”π—¦π—§ π—ͺπ—œπ—‘π—— 𝗔𝗑𝗗 π—–π—’π—”π—¦π—§π—”π—Ÿ π—ͺπ—”π—§π—˜π—₯ π—–π—’π—‘π——π—œπ—§π—œπ—’π—‘: Light to moderate winds coming from Northeast will prevail with slight to moderate seas / (0.6 to 2.5 meters).


Tuesday, April 27, 2021

DOH reminds Caraganons to constantly practice health protocols vs. COVID-19

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Apr. 27 (PIA) -- With the increasing number of COVID-19 cases in the different areas of Caraga region, the Department of Health (DOH) Caraga urged locals to constantly practice the minimum health standards/ health protocols as these contribute a lot to minimizing the number of cases as a way to prevent the transmission of the deadly virus.

During the 5th Regional COVID-19 Vaccination Operations Center (RVOC) Meeting with members from various government agencies, the DOH thru regional director Cesar Cassion, asked the assistance of the members in intensifying its advocacy efforts against COVID-19 and for the target priority sectors/groups to actively avail of the vaccine for their protection.

“Let us all work together, maximize our efforts in reaching out to the general public and let them be fully aware on the infection control protocols and make these a routine during this time of health crisis,” cited Cassion.

Cassion also elaborated that wearing of face mask should be practiced not only when in public places but even when inside the house or any establishments. Along with this is the wearing of face shield, regular hand washing, and social distancing.

Based on the DOH data as of April 27, 2021, there are a total of 9,787 confirmed COVID-19 cases. Of this figure, 959 are active cases; 8,477 recoveries; and 351 deaths. Breakdown of cases as follows: Agusan del Norte – 933; Agusan del Sur – 1,806; Surigao del Norte – 719; Surigao del Sur – 858; Dinagat Islands – 228; Bayugan City – 205; Bislig City – 439; Butuan City – 3,362; Cabadbaran City – 275; Surigao City – 531; and Tandag City – 431.

Meanwhile, apart from the advocacy on the health protocols, the health department also urged the local government units through its Rural Health Units to fast-track the conduct of vaccination to eligible priority groups and monitor the number of referrals and deferrals to assess the consumption situation in every province.

As of this writing, the DOH further revealed that there are 53,362 masterlisted and eligible for Priority A1 population. 47,414 were allocated for Sinovac and AstraZeneca vaccines for the first dose, of which only 39,641 or 83.61 percent of eligibles had been vaccinated. There are still 7,773 remaining vaccine doses to be consumed.

Dir. Cassion emphasized that once the vaccination for the remaining population to be vaccinated from A1 Priority groups will be accomplished before the end of April, the vaccination for the masterlisted eligible senior citizens will commence.

“We hoped to fast track the conduct vaccination to really cover the target priority groups and achieve it within the given timeline. We acknowledge the efforts of the LGUs, together with the barangay health workers, BHERTs, as well as to the volunteer-medical health workers in fulfilling the targets for the vaccination,” Cassion bared. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Army, religious sector conduct info drive for AgNor youth 

By Cpt. Roel T. Maglalang

BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte, Apr. 27 -- The 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion (23IB) and the Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) Church worked together for the conduct of Situational Awareness Knowledge Management (SAKM) for the SDA youth from April 18 to 24, 2021 at the SDA Church in Jamboree Site, Barangay Alubihid, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte located near the headquarters of the unit.

Around 130 youth members of SDA joined the said six-day “All-in-One FCamp 2021” initiated by the Masigasig Battalion ang the SDA Church.

The 23IB troopers, during the activity, facilitated a lecture and open forum activity that enlightened the SDA youth members on the recruitment strategies and deception tactics of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), its armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA), and its political arm, the National Democratic Front (NDF). The participants also watched a film that depicts real experiences of youth and other sectors victimized by the CPP-NPA-NDF. The intervention of the 23IB during the youth activity was led by Capt. Roel T. Maglalang, the civil-military operation (CMO) officer of the unit.

A former rebel, Kuya Amats, also enlightened the youth on his experiences and hardships while inside the rebel movement. Hel also encouraged the participants to strive hard in their studies for their future. He asked them to be vigilant, especially in schools, from the recruitment of the CPP-NPA-NDF.

Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, the Commanding Officer of 23IB, expressed gladness that another batch of youth was educated regarding the true agenda of the CPP-NPA-NDF.  

“The Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) have been recruiting members and they are targeting the innocent youths, regardless if they are students or out-of-school youth. We want to stop the recruitment as long as possible so that there will be no more lives that will be wasted. May there be no more youths who will be fooled again by the CNTs especially the youths that have been faithfully serving God with their clear purpose. We are so glad that we’re given a chance to share our mission with the religious group so that they can also help us spread and prevent the rampant CNT recruitment,” Paulo said. (CMO Officer, 23IB PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)

PHilMech airs Radyo Eskwela: Angat ani sa tamang makinarya

Micky Teresa V. Cabuloy

BUTUAN CITY, Apr. 27 -- “Mekanisasyon ang solusyon, upang ang ani ay maparami. Buksan ang isipan, taniman ng karunungan, umani ng kagalingan. Tara, pasok na sa Radyo Eskwela: Angat Ani sa Tamang Makinarya!”

This phrase sums up the goal of the Radyo Eskwela: Angat Ani sa Tamang Makinarya of the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PHilMech) that goes live every Wednesday and Saturday 5:30 to 6:00 AM in all Radio Mindanao Network (RMN) stations nationwide from March 13 to June 2021.

Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the Radyo Eskwela reaches out to Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) Mechanization Program beneficiaries, particularly the members of rice farmer’s cooperatives and associations (FCAs), to disseminate information on the benefits and advantages of rice mechanization technologies.

During its March 17 launching, Sen. Cynthia A. Villar, chair on Committee and Agriculture and Food, said, “Ang Radyo Eskwela ay napakahalagang pamamaraan ng malawakang information dissemination sa ating magsasaka, lalo na ngayong hinaharap pa rin natin ang global pandemic na COVID-19 kung saan hindi tayo makapagsagawa ng ating usual; face to face training.”

Senator Villar was also grateful and acknowledged the efforts of PHilMech and other agricultural agencies to reach and provide the needs of farmers, amidst the pandemic.

Department of Agriculture Secretary William D. Dar also expressed, “Layunin ng RCEF na iangat ang kabuhayan ng ating mga magsasaka at matulungan ang lahat na mapaunlad ang kanilang ani sa pamamagitan ng mga makabagong teknolohiya. Bagama’t nasa gitna tayo ng pandemya, ang mga ahensiya ng kagawaran, katulad ng PHilMech ay patuloy na gumagawa ng paraan upang matulangan ang ating mga magsasaka na patuloy na maging globally competitive tayo sa larangan ng rice production at postproduction.”

For PHilMech, its Director IV Dr. Baldwin G. Jallorina gave an optimistic message and encouraged everyone to continually gain knowledge through different communication platforms. Meanwhile, acting chief of PHilMech’s Applied Communication Division (ACD) Dr. Milagros B. Gonzalez, shared what is PHilMech as an agency, and emphasized the role of Radyo Eskwela for the RCEF Mechanization program.

The Radyo Eskwela simultaneously airs in Tagalog, Hiligaynon, Cebuano, Waray, Chavacano, Bicolano, and Iloco, and can be accessed in Radyo Eskwela’s Facebook Page (https://www.facebook.com/RadyoEskwelaPH/) and RMN’s YouTube Channel (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0x58b8W1OdhFcr3RJmJbmg). (DAPHilMech/PIA-Caraga)

Former CTG sympathizers in AgSur receive various assistance

By Major Francisco Garello, Jr.

BUTUAN CITY, Apr. 27 -- The first batch of former members from the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) front organization -- the Nagkahiusang Mag-uuma sa Agusan del Sur (NAMASUR), received various assistance from the government agencies concerned during a meeting held on April 18, 2021 at the San Toribio Gymnasium in Barangay San Toribio, Esperanza, Agusan del Sur.

The 402nd Infantry "Stingers" Brigade (402nd), Philippine Army through its operationally controlled unit, the 42nd CMO Company, facilitated the said event and ensured the safety and security of all the attendees.

A total of eight out of the 15 farmer-organizations comprising the Esperanza United Farmers Federation Association (EUFFA), the former NAMASUR after it was redirected, actively joined in the meeting and benefited from the assistance and commitment from the Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) of Caraga region.

These eight barangays are as follows: Brgy. Anolingan – five sacks feeds from DA; Brgy. San Toribio - three piglets and four sacks of feeds from DA; Cebulan – 2,000 fingerlings and eight packs growing seeds from BFAR; Brgy. Crossing Luna – three sacks of feeds from DA; Duangan – two sacks of rice from DA; Brgy. Guadalupe – three sacks of rice from DA; Dacutan – three sacks of rice from DA; and Brgy. Labao – two trays of eggs for ‘Balot’ from DAR.

In attendance during the said activity were TESDA Caraga Regional Director Tarhata Mapandi; DA Caraga Regional Technical Director Rebecca Atega; BFAR Caraga Asst. Regional Director Edgardo Balambao together with their representatives from their local offices in the province and municipal levels.

Also present in the said activity were regional director Manuel Orduna of the National Intelligence and Coordinating Agency (NICA). He led the information awareness drive about the CTG deceptive recruitment and the needed actions to counter the deceptive recruitment. “We are here committed in providing information and awareness to the conflict affected communities,” he said.

Brigadier General Maurito Licudine, 402nd Brigade Commander, underscored that the commitment and support that the team had displayed will be instrumental in paving the way of other communities still considered as conflict affected areas to emulate the said federation and fully support the government.

“We assure our partner agencies and other stakeholders of the 402nd Brigade’s unwavering support and commitment to facilitate and bring the government closer to the people. While we push forth and sustain our focused military operation against the armed component of the CTG to force them to abandon the armed struggle and surrender, we exhort every peace partner agencies/stakeholders to sustain the efforts of the whole of nation approach in addressing the issues brought about by insurgency in order to attain a peaceful and conflict resilient communities,” Licudine said. (CMO, 402nd Brigade/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

DAR turns over P23.9M infra project in Surigao Norte town

By Daryll M. Tumbaga

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, Apr. 27 -- The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) through its Project ConVERGE recently conducted a symbolic turned over of the farm-to-market project in Barangay Mabini, Placer town.

The said project ConVERGE (Convergence on Value Chain Enhancement for Rural Growth and Empowerment) is a farm-to-market road project worth P23.9 million that has a span of 2.1 kilometers. It will benefit 344 direct beneficiaries and 2,902 indirect beneficiaries.

With the construction of the said project, it is expected to boost the Coconet and Biofertilizer Enterprises projects of the municipalities of Claver, Gigaquit, Bacuag and Placer agrarian reform cluster.

“It was only a dream and now a reality. The people of Mabini are very grateful to DAR and the Local Government Unit of Placer for making this dream come true,” said Ruel S. Moneda, the Barangay Captain of Mabini, Placer town. 

The said project was funded under the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), with counterparts from the local government unit of Placer and the national government.

DAR Surigao del Norte Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer Maria Elezabetn L. De Guzman said the concreting of farm-to-market road is a sub-project support to the main project which is the coconet and bio-fertilizer enterprise.

On the other hand, Mayor Jovie Marie C. Villazon of Placer could not contain her excitement after the turnover. “For almost two years, after the challenges that have been encountered along its implementation at last the project is now being turned over," she said.

Mayor Villazon thanked the DAR for its continuing effort in providing services to its beneficiaries especially to the people of Placer and also expressed her undying support to the future endeavors of DAR in partnership with the local government unit of Placer.

The construction of the said farm-to-market road has taken a backseat due to the global health emergency crisis brought about by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic coupled with some issues on road right of way.

Meanwhile, DAR Caraga Regional Director Leomides R. Villareal underscored that the project is a manifestation that the government wants the people to feel that its government is working for their welfare.

Further, he challenged the people of Mabini to take care of this project.

On his part, Project ConVERGE National Project Director Faisar Mambuay emphasized that the said project will minimize the travelling expenses of the farmers and speeds up the hauling process of their products.

“With Project ConVERGE, government agencies have pooled their resources together to teach the farmers the value chain approach and make them entrepreneurs through their agrarian organizations,” said Dir. Mambuay.

He added that the project will not stop in capacitating the farmers, but until such time that they have forged marketing agreements for their products and established their credibility in accessing production loans not just from government banks but from private financing institutions as well. (DAR-SDN/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

NCIP-Caraga conducts community visit, outreach program

AGUSAN DEL SUR, April 27 - A month after the last visit, the personnel from the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP)–Caraga led by Atty. Leslie Mae Plaza, acting chief of Technical Management and Services Division (TMSD), returned to Mahagsay, San Luis of this province on April 8, 2021 for another Community Visitation and Outreach Program, and to join the Banwaon tribe in time of their Dumalongdong celebration.

Dumalongdong is the most significant gathering of the Banwaon, wherein elders and leaders of the community are all gathered in this event. Katangkawan Wilfred Napongahan led the said activity. There were several intentions for the sacred event these include the anointment of future leaders of the community, the supplication from Magbabaya for the cleansing of the community and healing of the sick, and the acceptance and reconciliation of returning brethren. For each intention, offerings to Magbabaya were extended.

The event was also a form of thanksgiving for the approval of the Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title (CADT) 250 of the Banwaon Indigenous Cultural Communities/ Indigenous Peoples (ICCs/IPs) on December 3, 2020. An album containing photos during the social preparation and survey was given to them to forever commemorate this achievement.

Meanwhile, the NCIP-Caraga and the local health unit led the distribution of over-the-counter medicines and vitamin supplements. Packs of Oral Rehydration Solution (ORESOL) were distributed especially that several residents experienced diarrhea. Food packs composed of three-kilo rice, coffee, milk, canned goods, and noodles were also handed to some 90 patients suspected of cholera. In addition, used toys and candies became the source of joy for Banwaon children.

The three volumes of Epanaw Coffee Table Books were also turned over to the Banwaon ICCs/IPs. (NCIP-Caraga/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Caraga stakeholders join virtual Pre-SONA Forum on Economic and Development Clusters

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Apr. 27 (PIA) -- Various stakeholders in Caraga region had joined in the pre-State of the Nation Address (SONA) Forum of the Economic Development and Infrastructure Clusters hosted by the Department of Finance (DoF) via an online platform with cabinet secretaries from the different government agencies concerned as the resource speakers who presented the updates and developments since they assumed the post in 2016.

Secretary Carlos Dominguez of the Department of Finance (DoF) bared that the Duterte administration cleaned up the domestic cigarette business.

“It caught a domestic manufacturer for tax evasion in 2017, resulting in the largest tax settlement in Philippine history amounting to P30-billion. After shutting down the cigarette company, collection on cigarette excise taxes increased by an average of P2.5-billion per month,” cited Dominguez.

He added that under President Duterte's watch, the infrastructure spending dramatically rose to an average of five percent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), more than double the investments of the past four administrations. "The Duterte administration also aggressively pushed for the full digitalization of the Bureau of Internal Revenue and Bureau of Customs," he said.

The official further elaborated that despite of the global health crisis, the administration moved quickly to protect the lives of Filipinos. "The game-changing reforms we had institutionalized over the last five years cemented our overall microeconomic stability and allowed us to respond decisively to this health crisis," he said.

“As of December 31, 2020, the Duterte administration allocated some P2.76-trillion (USD 55.69 Billion) or 15.4 percent of GDP in the fulfillment of the Four-Pillar Socioeconomic Strategy Against COVID-19, namely: Pillar 1 – Emergency support for vulnerable groups; Pillar 2 – Marshalling resources to fight COVID-19; Pillar 3 – Monetary actions to keep the economy afloat; and Pillar 4 – An economic recovery program to create jobs and sustain growth,” Dominguez disclosed.

On food security, Secretary William Dar of the Department of Agriculture (DA) underscored that second to public health concerns, the food security of the people during this pandemic has been a paramount goal of the government. “COVID-19 has magnified the weaknesses of the agricultural sector and compelled us to confront the challenges in the sector. The food security imperative revolves around increasing our farm productivity to guarantee adequate food supply. However, the availability of food at affordable prices to our consumers, particularly the poor, completes the equation,” he said.

Meanwhile, Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles, Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security (CORDS) for Caraga region, emphasized that the Duterte administration acknowledges the important role that the general public and different citizen groups play in policy-making.

“Sulong Pilipinas is one of the initiatives of the government to increase stakeholders’ participation and provides a venue to discuss issues and concerns that are important to the people. The needs, interests, and views of the people are foremost consideration in every policy decision of the President and the Cabinet,” bared Nograles.

During the whole day session, Acting Secretary Karl Kendrick Chua of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) shared the updates on the Zero-to-Ten Point Socioeconomic Agenda and Priorities for 2021-2022; Governor Benjamin Diokno of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas discussed the Monetary, External, and Financial Sector Development; Secretary Wendel Avisado of the Department of Budget and Management on the Fiscal Performance, Strategy, Reforms and Outlook; Secretary Mark Villar of the Department of Public Works and Highways on the updates of the Build, Build, Build Infrastructure Program; Secretary Vivencio Dizon on updates of the New Clark City; Secretary Arthur Tagude of the Department of Transportation on updates of the Transportation sector; Secretary Gregorio Honasan of the Department of Information and Communications Technology on the development in Information and Communications Technology; Secretary Ramon Lopez of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) on the updates of Digitalization Efforts; and Secretary Carlito Galvez, chief implementer of the Philippines’ Declared National Policy Against COVID-19. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Caraga hosts first leg of Regional Pre-SONA Series

By Estella Marie M. Vallespin

BUTUAN CITY, April 27 (PIA) -- Local government officials, civil society organizations, and members of the media convened to witness the first leg of “Kasama sa Pamana: Regional Pre-SONA Series” on Thursday, April 15, in the Agusan del Norte Capitol Covered Court, Butuan City.

The roadshow aimed to inform the public of the major accomplishments of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s Administration from 2016 as well as the plans for the remainder of his term. Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles, who also serves as Caraga’s Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security, graced the event along with Agusan del Norte Governor Dale Corvera and Butuan City Mayor Ronnie Vicente Lagnada.

In his message, CabSec Nograles shared that the Pre-SONA (State of the Nation Address) activity serves as a comprehensive prequel for the President’s sixth and final SONA on July 26, 2021. 

The keystone accomplishments of the present administration in the areas of economic and development; infrastructure; human development and poverty reduction; participatory governance; security, justice and peace; and climate change adaptation, mitigation and disaster risk reduction were presented in the form of an audio-visual presentation.

The most notable accomplishments of the government in Caraga region were also highlighted which includes the Masao Port improvement project, land tenure security program, agrarian justice delivery program, agrarian reform beneficiaries’ development and sustainability program, and the implementation of the COVID-19 adjustment measures program.

Dr. Dioharra Appari of DOH Caraga presented the COVID-19 situation in the region where the number of COVID-19 cases is rising. However, contact tracing has also been intensified in several areas and traces as far as second-generation of close contacts. 

DILG Caraga Regional Director Lilibeth A. Famacion served as the moderator for the presentation of accomplishments and question-and-answer portion. As the Technical Working Group Chairperson and Head Secretariat of the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC), Director Famacion thanked the national government for the unwavering support and guidance in all of the efforts of the regional government which made Caraga rise from its humble roots.

Secretary Martin Andanar of the Presidential Communications Operations Office closed the event with a virtual message by guaranteeing the public that the President is always working for what is best for the country.

The next leg of Kasama sa Pamana will take place in Legazpi, Albay on April 22, 2021. (DILG-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Higaonons’ yes pushes green coffee bean facility construction

By Zenny G. Awing

The smell of fresh coffee beans is in the air in Caraga as the construction of the Green Coffee Bean Processing Facility in Casiklan, Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte is bound to start. All thanks to the approval of the Higaonon tribe during the Free and Prior Informed Consent (FCIP) meeting facilitated by the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) on April 21.

Represented by three Indigenous Peoples, namely: Melinda P. Masiste, Beniales B. Dominador, and Antonio T. Manlipayan Jr., the signed MOA signified a green light to issue the Certificate of Precondition, a document certifying the building of a facility to be issued by the Provincial Government Unit. This will be given to the Casiklan Wheels Farmers Association Inc. (CAWFAI), the intended beneficiary of the project funded by the Department of Agriculture-Philippine Rural Development Project. 

“The DA and the government are here to build a coffee processing plant that will soon be turned over to CAWFAI. Let’s set our mind that this will benefit not only the CAWFAI but also the IPs here in Casiklan,” assured Atty. Siegfried A. Auza, NCIP Provincial Legal Officer.

Since a portion of the ancestral domain will be used for the infrastructure, a documented consent is needed from the affected party through a signed MOA. 

“The process that we are doing is part of the agreement. This will allow or nullify the construction of the facility based on your decision,” emphasized Andrew M. Salas, NCIP Bueneascar, Acting Community Development Officer. 

The IPs agreed to the provisions stating the acceptance and approval of building a processing center worth P19 million. This will further boost the barangay’s coffee enterprise and increase farmers’ income. Moreover, the MOA stipulates that three signatories will represent the Higaonons in Casiklan, making them responsible for the agreement.

However, it was made clear that the rights given to the signatories are limited only to the present agreement. Another FPIC meeting will commence before the operation kicks off to tackle the terms and conditions of the enterprise and royalty of the Higaonon. The signed MOA will be forwarded to the province then to the region for the issuance of the Pre-Condition Certificate.

Enterprise component head Lynn A. PareΓ±as witnessed the signing of MOA together with NCIP's Provincial Legal Officer, Atty. Siegfried A. Auza.

Higaonon voices heard

Furthermore, the FCIP served as an avenue to hear the voices of the IPs and clarify their concerns. 

Tribal leader Datu Beniales B. Duminda encouraged his constituents to unify their answer and say yes to the building facility. He believes the project will benefit all the residents of Casiklan including the IPs since the majority are coffee farmers.

"This will surely pour overflowing opportunities to the tribe and will inspire those who quitted coffee farming to get back to business,” Datu Duminda exulted.

According to the 10-year coffee farmer, the 100x100m production area sums to P3000 input only. This earns them P7000 per harvest, which lasts for six months. With the processing center, Datu Duminda believes both coffee production and income will increase.  
Additionally, some IPs expressed their gratitude for including them in the whole process.

“We are pleased that they made sure to consult us for the construction of this project. We feel that our tribe has been significant to its realization,” Bae Thelma C. Makaundag expressed.

DA’s continuing support to CAWFAI

In 2020 CAWFAI received a Multi-Purpose Drying Pavement, Multi-Commodity Solar Tunnel Dryer, coffee roaster, grinder, sprayer, hand tractor, grass cutter, and pole pruner from the DA High-Value Commercial Crops Program. This encouraged residents in Casiklan to venture into coffee farming and join the association making it grow from 15 members to 293. With the continued support of the government, CAWFAI is seen to help empower the livelihood in the area. (DA-PRPD13/PIA Agusan del Norte)

DSWD Caraga ensures well-being of workers with stress management workshop

BUTUAN CITY, Apr. 27 - The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga promotes the well-being of its workers by ensuring to provide necessary interventions to ensure the physical and mental health of its workers. With this, the DSWD Field Office Caraga conducted recently the two-day stress reduction workshop cum team-building for its Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) staff.

During the Training Needs Assessment last March 2015, the need to manage and handle stress was verbalized by the 4Ps workers. Thus, the workshop seeks to manage stress at work effectively, improve productivity in their assigned areas, and develop a harmonious interpersonal relationship with co-workers and partners.

“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for this rare opportunity of going back to ourselves, unmasking our feelings and vulnerabilities, and becoming a better version of who we are in the workplace, with our families, and as a person. We cannot say thank you enough, only God can,” Ruth Tambura, provincial link officer of Agusan del Norte, cited in her Facebook post.

Facilitated by the Learning and Development Section (LDS), the workshop helps workers re-discover their own personal difficulties, reflect upon stress management and relaxation strategies, and become more effective in handling everyday pressures in a sustainable way.

“This is a reality that one has to overcome in order to maintain the equilibrium required to achieve an optimum level of functioning in the Agency,” Anafe Lecciones, 4Ps regional training specialist and LDS head, said.

The workshops were per Provincial Operations Office (POO) cluster. The topics include discussed during the sessions include (a) Stress and Reduction Techniques, (b) Personal Role in Stress Creation and Reduction (c) Personal Action Plan with Stress, and (d) Teambuilding Concepts.

“While our staff cares to serve, they too deserve to be given timely and appropriate interventions. More so the people in the field who are weakened by the demands of their work, and the emotional instability caused by living away from their family,” Lecciones added.

Moreover, this time of pandemic has affected people from different walks of life. Some developed anxiety and some succumbed to depression. Frontline workers from DSWD are not exempted from this phenomenon especially with the recently concluded Social Amelioration Program (SAP) validations and payouts.

“We highly appreciate your efforts to equip us to become more stress-resistant and empowered not just in work but in our personal dealings as well,” Cherry Gabotero, provincial link of Dinagat Islands, said. (Social Marketing Section/DSWD Field Office Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Road rehab in SurSur's conflict-affected area nears completion

By 1st Lt. Krisjuper Andreo Punsalan

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Apr. 27 -- The Surigao del Sur Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (LTF-ELCAC) has set another developmental footprint as it revealed an ongoing farm-to-market road rehabilitation from Sitio Simowao (Kilometer 9) to Sitio Han-ayan (Kilometer 16) in barangay Diatagon, Lianga, Surigao del Sur in an ocular inspection on Monday. The project is part of the implementation of the National Task Force ELCAC’s Barangay Development Program (BDP).

These sitios were formerly the haven of the Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs). Barangay Diatagon of Lianga was then a home for the Communist NPA Terrorist (CNT) alleged front schools, Tribal Filipino Program of Surigao del Sur (TRIFPSS), and Alternative Learning Center for Agriculture and Livelihood Development (ALCADEV) which were exposed by former rebels and ordered to stop its operations by the Lianga Indigenous People (IP) Council by virtue of resolutions and ordinances adopted by the Local Government Unit and backed by the Caraga Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict.

Currently, Surigao del Sur Governor and Regional Peace and Order Council Chairman, Alexander T. Pimentel, has supported the rehabilitation of the farm-to-market road by providing fuel and equipment as the 544th Engineer Battalion and the 3rd Special Forces “Arrowhead” Battalion provided the manpower and security to finish the development projects.

The road rehabilitation was instrumental as it opened the gateway for government services. The NTF-ELCAC’s orchestration of government efforts to address the root causes of NPA terrorism has resulted in the establishment of DepEd-accredited IP Schools of Living Tradition (DepEd-SLTs), the provision of livelihood settlement grants, the delivery of various social and basic services to the IP communities was realized and sustained.

The IP communities in Surigao del Sur, Lianga tribal chieftain Datu Constancio Duhac, and IP Mandatory Representative (IPMR), Alexander S. Bucales along with San Miguel IPMR, Rico Maca said that NTF-ELCAC’s thrust has freed them from the bonds of CPP-NPA exploitation and opened the gateway for IP communities towards sustainable development.

“Ang mga senador na gustong tanggalan ng budget ang NTF-ELCAC at BDP ay hindi nakakaintindi sa kalagayan at kahirapan ng tribo hindi lamang sa Surigao del Sur kundi sa buong Pilipinas. Pag tinanggalan mo ng budget ang NTF-ELCAC BDP, hindi matutuloy ang mga project na para sa aming mga conflict-affected barangays at dadami nanaman ang rebelde dahil sa kahirapan,” Datu Rico Maca said.

“Ang NTF-ELCAC ang aming pag-asa sa pag-unlad ng aming tribo. Kapag nagawa na ang mga kalsada mas mabilis nanaming maibababa ang mga produkto naming at mawawala na ng tuluyan ang mga NPA dahil wala na silang mapagtataguan,” Datu Constancio Duhac added.

Meanwhile, the provincial government of Surigao del Sur will implement the BDP and the municipalities have already prepared the documentary requirements to push through with the identified projects that would address the roots of conflict in the province. (CMO-3rd SFBn/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

Rubber produksyon sa Butuan, nagpadayon taliwala sa nasinating pandemya

DAKBAYAN SA BUTUAN, Abril 27 -- Taliwala sa nasinating pandemya wala naapektuhan ang pagtaas sa produksyon sa rubber industry sa syudad sa Butuan. Hinuon mas nitaas pa kini tungod doble ang paningkamot sa katawhan nga makatigum og cup lumps aron mukita og dako alang sa pagkaon sa pamilya.

Sulod sa tulo ka bulan nakatapok og cup lumps ang Farmers Producers Cooperative. Sumala ni Nilo Calipayan, Farmers Producers Cooperative Manager, daghang mag-uuma ang apektado sa nasinating pandemya. Midangop sa kooperatiba ang mga mag uuma nga nagpatabang ug nihangyo nga ang kooperatiba na ang magtigum sa ilang produce ug ang kooperatiba na ang magbaligya.

Gawas sa pagpadako sa produksyon sa rubber gipadako sab sa kooperatiba ang produksyon sa kape ug uban pa. Kaniadto gikan pagtanum sa rubber makaharvest na human sa pito ka tuig apan karon tungod sa bag-ong teknolohiya gamit ang cloning pwede na makaharvest human sa upat ka tuig hinungdan nag mass produksyon ang kooperatiba og clones nga rubber seedlings.

Gipakita ni Calipayan nga mahimong lifetime ang rubber kung skilled ang tapper niini kada duha ka adlaw mubalik ang tapper aron mag tapping panahon sa harvest. Kaduha sa usa ka bulan ang himoong pagharvest og cup lump. Human sa pagharvest ibutang una kini sa bodega aron paghulat nga kuhaon sa mga buyers.

Kompleto ang pasilidad sa KFPC dunay Nursery seed bed, Seedling Production Facility Building ug Consolidation Rubber Cup Lump Warehouse. Ang mga myembro sa Highly Urbanized City Agri-Fishery Council HUCAFC uban sa mga personahe sa City Agriculturist Office nagpadayon sa pagpahigayon og monitoring sa mga ekipo sa kooperatiba isip pagsusi sa stado niini sa ingon masayran kong functional pa kini. Gilantaw sab sa HUCAFC ang epekto sa panginabuhian sa katawhan gikan sa mga proyektong hugtanung giimplementar sa city government sa Butuan.

Sa mga interesado nga mutanum og rubber tree pwedeng mupalit og budded seedlings sa kooperatiba sa presyong 35 pesos kada usa ug dunay kapilian nga naka clone na mga seedlings.

Nakita sa mga kadagkuan sa DA-Caraga nga dili masayang ang gihatag nga suporta sa goberno ngadto sa kooperatiba tungod gihatagan kini og importansya sa usa ka organisadong kooperatiba. Usa sab kini sa paagi nga mamahimung service provider sa mga rubber growers sa dakbayan sa Butuan ug sa mga silingang barangay ug munisipyo.

Nahimong posible ang proyekto sa pagtambayayong sa World Bank, Department of Agriculture-Philippine Rural Development Project ug LGU-Butuan. Mas mapasayon na usab ang pagbyahe sa mga abot sa kooperatiba paingon sa merkado tungod nagpadayon ang konstruksyon sa Farm to Market road.

Ang kooperatiba dunay halos 50 ka trabahante nga maoy nagmintinar sa mga tanum ug dunay 460 nga myembro. (Butuan City PIO/PIA Agusan del Norte)

Veterinary Health Certificate, kinahanglanon una pa ihawon ang binuhing baboy

DAKBAYAN SA BUTUAN, Abril 27 -- Hugtanong gipatuman sa National Meat Inspection Service kun NMIS Caraga ug City Veterinary Office ang NMIS Memorandum Order No. 08-2019-463 o ang “NO VETERINARY HEALTH CERTIFICATE, NO SLAUGHTER POLICY.”

Usa kini ka supplemental instruction nga himuon sa mga buhatan sa pagpatuman sa pagdumala, pag contain ug pagkontrola sa pagkaylap sa gikatahapang Swine Disease.

Hugtanong ipatuman ang pagkuha ug pagpakita sa Veterinary Health Certificate kun VHC tungod nagkaduol ang mga lugar nga nasudlan na sa African Swine Fever kon ASF.

Una pa makakuha og VHC, siguruhon una ang pagkuha og Barangay Certification aron mahibal-an kung asa gikan ang baboy nga ihawon. Dal-on dayon ang Barangay Certication ug ang baboy sa City Veterinary Office o sa City Slaughter House.

Abli ang buhatan sa City Veterinary Office alang sa pagtan-aw sa ihawon nga baboy lunes hantud byernes, alas 8:00 sa buntag hantud alas 5:00 sa hapon. Sa adlawng Sabado, Domingo ug Holiday mamahimong dalhon ang baboy sa City Slaughterhouse alas 4:00 sa hapon hantud alas 6:00 sa gabie sa may Barangay Obrero ning syudad.

Gipahimangnoan ang tanan nga libre ang VHC ug aduna lamang kini same day validity  nga gikan sa government veterinarian. Ang schedule usab sa Ante-Mortem Inspection mahitabo alas 4:00 sa hapon hantud sa alas 6:00 sa hapon lamang.

Importante ang Ante-Mortem Inspection sa mga hayop aron makita kong aduna bay bluish purple areas ug hemorrhages sa dunggan; tiyan ug tiil, pagpula sa panit sa dughan, tiyan, ikog ug paa; pagsuka; kalibanga nga  usahay adunay dugo, eye discharges, grabe nga pagdugo sa ilong, rectum, ug nervous signs. (Butuan City PIO/PIA-Agusan del Norte)