Friday, January 8, 2021

DA-Caraga distributes cash, food aid to marginal farmers

By Aurelius P. Arais

BUTUAN CITY, Jan. 8 -- No one will be left behind.

A word of commitment of the Department of Agriculture in its quest to support the farmers in this time of the pandemic. 

According to Melody Guimary, in an interview over BahandisaKaumahan, a DA-Caraga radio program, as of January 4, 2021, around P3.1 million worth of vouchers have been distributed to qualified farmers in Caraga Region for the Cash and Food Subsidy for Marginal Farmers and Fishers (CFSMFF) Program.

“We already had distributed subsidy vouchers to a total of 639 farmers in Caraga Region out of 911 recipients endorsed to the central office,” she said.

Another batch is expected to receive the vouchers as soon as they will receive approval from the central office.

The voucher indicating a QR code has an amount of P5,000.00 each divided into P3,000.00 for cash and P2,000.00 for food subsidy.

“Each recipient will present their voucher to the private paying outlet specifically MLhuiller identified by the Development Bank of the Philippines as a program partner. The same voucher will be presented also for the food subsidy from the supplier identified by the Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD) of DA-Caraga,” Guimary explained. 

The food subsidy includes rice, dressed chicken, and table egg. 

She said that the program aims to help the corn farmers who are tilling of not more than 1-hectare farm and a residence from 4th to 6th municipalities or cities and registered in the Registry System for Basic Sector in Agriculture (RSBSA).

She clarified that the respective local government unit will be the one to submit the list of qualified farmers and the regional office will endorse the same to the central office for review and approval.

“The recipients will undergo a series of reviews to ensure that they haven’t received any government cash subsidy from other government agencies to prevent duplication,” Guimary explained.

The budget of the program had been included in the Bayanihan Act II to help marginal farmers to recover from the crisis brought about by the pandemic and calamities that hit the country.

“Under the program, Caraga Region has an indicative target of 2,395 recipients or an allocation of P11.9 million," Guimary added.  

Aside from marginal corn farmers, other recipients for CFSMFF are coconut farmers, fishers, and sugarcane planters, and Indigenous People (IPs).

Caraga Region has around 23 classified as 4th to 6th class municipalities and cities. (DA-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Mga residente sa bayan ng San Francisco, AgSur tumanggap ng regalo sa bagong taon

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Enero 8 (PIA) - Nagsanib pwersa ang mga kawani mula sa Philippine National Police (PNP), Ladies Club Caraga, Agusan Media Club, at lokal na pamahalaan sa bayan ng San Francisco sa Agusan del Sur para sa isang gift-giving at tulungan ang mga padyak drivers at residente ng iba’t-ibang barangay na naapektuhan ng bagyong na nagdulot ng pagbaha sa lugar.

Bawat pamilya sa Purok 1-A, Barangay 1 sa nasabing bayan ay tumanggap ng food at relief packs mula sa nasabing grupo.

“Magpasalamat tayo na mga taga Purok 1-A dahil isa tayo sa mga napili na mabigyan ng pamaskong handog. Maraming salamat sa lahat ng sponsor,” ani ni John Ananoria, punong barangay.

Binigyang-diin ni Richard Grande, president ng Agusan Media Club ang kahalagahan ng pagkakaisa at pagtutulungan ng mga Caraganons. “I-extend po natin ang diwa ng pagbibigayan, huwag nating isipin kung gaano karami o kalaki ang ating ibinigay kung hindi ang diwa sa ating pagiging mapagbigay sa kapwa,” banggit niya.

Nakibahagi rin ang Aliwan Fiesta Digital Queen 2020 na si Jannarie Zarzoso sa nasabing gift-giving at pinuri nito ang pagkakaisa ng bawat sektor na tumulong sa mga nangangailangan.

Samantala, tumanggap din ng relief goods ang may 25 padyak drivers sa barangay 2 ng San Francisco.

Ayon kay PNP-Agusan del Sur Provincial Director, Police Colonel Ringo Zarzoso, patuloy nila itong gagawin sa iba’t-ibang barangay upang marami ring matulungan lalo na sa mga sektor na lubhang naapektuhan ngayong pandemya. Nanawagan din sya sa lahat na sundin ang health protocols upang masugpo ang pagtaas ng kaso ng coronavirus disease (COVID-19) sa rehiyon. (JPG/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Youths pursue agri-related courses under ATI’s 'EAsY Agri Program'

By Kelly Alyza Evign Corcuera

BUTUAN CITY, Jan. 8 -- In support to the Department of Agriculture’s (DA's) advocacy to entice the Filipino youth in leaning towards agriculture, 223 scholars from all over the country were recruited and accepted under the Agricultural Training Institute’s (ATI) newest scholarship program - the Educational Assistance for the Youth: Degree Courses in Agriculture, and Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering or the EAsY Agri Program.

This program is dedicated to children of small-scale farmers and fisherfolk to encourage them in pursuing a professional career in agriculture and fisheries or to venture in agri-entrepreneurship.

The EAsY Agri Program will run from 2020 to 2025 to cover the four-year program for the Bachelor of Science (BS) in Agriculture and related courses and five-year program for the BS Agriculture and Biosystems Engineering (BS ABE).

To date, a total of 160 scholars have been accepted where 119 will take up BS in Agriculture; 13 for BS AgriBusiness; 11 for Bachelor in Agricultural Technology; 9 for BS Fisheries; four for BS Agro-Forestry; two for BS Forestry; and two for Bachelor of Technology and Livelihood Education in Agri-Fishery Arts.

Meanwhile, 63 grantees are to pursue BS ABE. They are currently enrolled in different state universities and colleges where a Memorandum of Agreement has been forged through the ATI Regional Training Centers (ATI-RTCs).

To date, the ATI has partnered with 58 state universities and colleges (SUCs) nationwide to ensure the delivery of quality education to all youth scholars.

With the current pandemic situation, the education system is greatly affected causing the late opening of academic year, the earliest of which was August 10, 2020 and the last was last October 16, 2020. From the traditional face-to-face mode of learning, partner SUCs are on online, applying blended learning courses.

Some setbacks that scholars are experiencing are the unstable internet connection as most of them live in remote areas with very weak signal to participate in their online classes, or no available laptops or tablets.

Despite the limitations, the scholars are committed to do their best as they are closely monitored and guided by the scholarship point persons of the ATI-RTCs.

By the end of the program, the Institute is expecting to produce 223 youth scholar-graduates. (DA-ATI/PIA-Caraga)

Army facilitates christening of 32 FRs, dependents in Agusan del Norte

By 1Lt. Roel T. Maglalang

BUTUAN CITY, Jan. 8 -- The 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion (23IB), Philippine Army in partnership with the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) of Agusan del Norte recently facilitated the baptism of 32 former rebels (FRs) and their children during a Thanksgiving Mass conducted in the unit’s headquarters at Jamboree Site, Purok 6, Barangay Alubihid, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.

The baptism was officiated by Rev. Fr. Jhonny Villanueva, the assistant parish priest of Saint James the Great Parish in Buenavista.

Among the FRs who received the sacrament of baptism was Alias Osang, 39, a mother of seven children. She was thankful to the 23rd IB and the PSWDO of Agusan del Norte for facilitating the baptismal rite, saying that it was a way of renewing her commitment to become a productive member of their community and continue to serve the government.

One of the godparents of the newly-baptized FRs and their children is 2nd District Representative of Agusan del Norte Ma. Angelica Rosedell Amante-Matba,  represented by Nita Racho who stood as witness to the baptism rite.

Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, Commanding Officer, 23IB, congratulated everyone for doing their best to start their new lives.

“As we always hear that men cannot stand by bread alone, we also need to feed ourselves with the words of God and follow his commandments. We are all sinners but we are saved by the grace of God," Paulo said in a message during the baptismal rite.

"I am so proud to see not only the kids but also these adults or parents who’ve been helping themselves to build an intimate relationship with God. May you seek wisdom every day in order for you to follow the right path in all your undertakings,” he added. (CMO Officer, 23IB PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)

4 NPAs, 1 MB surrender to Army in Agusan del Norte a day after CPP anniv

By 1Lt. Roel T. Maglalang

BUTUAN CITY, Jan. 8 – Four regular combatants of the Communist New People’s Army Terrorist (CNT) and one Milisya ng Bayan (MB) member in Agusan del Norte have decided to abandon the cause and ideology of the communist movement and surrendered to the troopers of the 23rd Infantry “Masigasig” Battalion (23IB) in Jamboree Site, Purok 6, Barangay Alubihid, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.

The surrender came one day after the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) celebrated its 52nd anniversary last Saturday, December 26, 2020.

The four NPA members were identified as Alias Else, 18, who brought one caliber .30 M1 Carbine with one magazine and three live ammunition; Alias Dodong, 30, who also handed over one caliber .45 pistol, Cal .45 Pistol with two live ammunition, one caliber .357 revolver and two caliber .38 revolvers; Alias Rebo, 30; and Alias Indai/Bea, 23.

The MB member was identified as Alias Jimmy/Omar, 55, a resident of Barangay Durian, Las Nieves town who also surrendered one shotgun (ARMSCOR) with four live ammunition.

Alias Else, Dodong and Rebo were active members of Sub Regional Sentro de Grabidad (SRSDG) SAGAY, Sub Regional Command 3 (SRC3), of the North Central Regional Committee, while Alias Indai/Bea served as the Finance Officer of SRC 3, NCMRC. In his testimony, former MB member Jimmy/Omar admitted that he was already tired of serving the CPP-NPA but he cannot leave the group due to fear for his life and the safety of his family.

Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, the Acting Commander of 23IB welcomed the five surrenderers and urged the remnants of the CNTs in the area to go back to the folds of the law and live peacefully with their families.

“I am glad that the members of the CNTs have recognized the sincerity of the government in helping the FRs and they have seen the deceptive tactics of the CNTs,” Paulo said.

The 23rd IB commander added: “Inside the 52 years of CNT existence, they were claiming that they were the protectors of the poor but as we can see, they only manipulated and exploited the vulnerabilities of the people to elevate their status in life. Instead of providing the basic necessities of the people, they only extort and harassed them so that they will follow the orders given to them.”

He further asked the remaining CNTs to start their new lives this 2021 by laying down their arms and return to their families.

“Leave your chaotic life behind and live peacefully with your family. Set your goals in life in order to live prosperously in the upcoming years. Let us help one another to stop the CNTs from conducting rampant exploitation with their rotten ideology that kills the future of our nation,” Paulo said. (CMO Officer, 23IB PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)

 Two NPA terrorists killed in AgNor clash

By Cpt. Joash U. Pramis

PLACER, Surigao del Norte, Jan. 8 -- The remains of the New People's Army (NPA) terrorists who were killed in the recent encounter between the 29th Infantry Battalion (29IB), PhilippineArmy and communist NPA terrorists (CNTs) in Jabonga town were positively identified and claimed by their respective families on Wednesday, December 30.

The dead bodies were identified  by their kins as Marife Mercansel Montero @Owen, 23, single, and  a resident of Purok Pangasian, Unaban, Tago, Surigao del Sur while the other male cadaver was identified as Regie Mae Ochavillo @Thunder, 20, single and a resident of Purok 8, Del Pilar, Cabadbaran City.

In the investigation conducted, it was found out that Marife was recruited to join the CNTs sometime in 2018. She was a second-year college student taking up Political Science at St. Theresa College in Tandag City. According to Annabelle, an older sister of Marife, all they know was her sister is doing well in her studies but unknowingly she got involved in the underground movement with the CNTs. 

On the other hand, Regie’s body was claimed by his grandfather. Accordingly, he stayed with his grandparents prior to his involvement with the armed movement sometime in October 2019. In his stint with the armed group, he was identified as a regular member of SYP16A of Guerilla Front 16 operating in the towns of Kitcharao-Jabonga-Santiago-Tubay.

In his statement, Lolo Nerio Ochavillo, expressed his heartfelt thanks to the soldiers who assisted them in claiming the remains of his grandson. 

Meanwhile, Col. George L Banzon, Commander of 901st Infantry (Fight ‘Em) Brigade, strongly condemned the CNTs for their longstanding deceptions and exploitations on the students and youth to advance their hidden agenda. He added that the CNTs are using lies and propaganda to entice the youth to join their violent movement.

“We strongly denounced the CNTs for the unfortunate demise of two young individuals. Just like the other members of NPA who went astray with the communist terrorist group, they were victims who fell in the CNT’s modus. Their recruiters brain-washed and radicalized them using propaganda on societal issues with the intent of agitating their youthful minds, arousing their emotions and building hatred in their hearts. These youngsters took arms and went against the government because of CNT’s exploitations," he said.

Along this line, he also reminded the public to be mindful of their children who are vulnerable and target of CNT’s recruitment. He further explained that the CNTs are aiming at the youth because they need to fill the dwindling numbers of their cadres and members in order to sustain their armed struggle.

The 29th Infantry (Matatag) Batallion in coordination with the local government unit of Jabonga facilitated the turnover of the remains of the dead NPA members to their respective families so that they will be accorded with a decent burial. (CMO Officer, 901 Infantry Brigade/PIA Agusan del Norte)

Soldiers score anew in Agusan del Norte

By Cpt. Joash U. Pramis

PLACER, Surigao del Nort, Jan. 8 -- The 29th Infantry (Matatag) Battalion (29IB), Philippine Army scored anew after a firefight ensued between soldiers and communist NPA terrorists (CNTs) in Sitio Tinago, Barangay Baleguian, Jabonga, Agusan del Norte recently.

According to a report of 29IB under Lt. Col. Aristotle Antonio, the unit launched an operation in response to the information provided by displeased civilians regarding the presence of more or less 15 armed CNTs who were seen staging a celebration of the Communist Party of the Philippines founding anniversary a day before the said clash transpired. The said group was believed to be under Marvin Bugas @ Eman of SYP16A, Guerilla Front 16.

The said encounter lasted for almost an hour and resulted in the death of two NPA members (1 male and 1 female) and seizure of two AK47 rifles, assorted magazines with live ammunition, one cellphone, personal belongings and subversive documents with high intelligence value.

In his statement, Mayor Napoleon M. Montero of Jabonga said the local government unit fully understands that the incident was a result of a legitimate military operation conducted by the government forces in their area. He further cited that Barangay Baleguian was among the identified conflict-affected areas in the province and one of the recipients of the Retooled Community Support Program with the objective of ending the local communist armed conflict.

He also added that the local government will do its part to support the Philippine Army and all the involved government agencies and instrumentalities in ending the insurgency problem to finally bring peace and development in their area.

Meanwhile, Col. George L. Banzon, Commander of 901st Infantry (Fight’Em) Brigade, said that the encounter was a product of the continuing efforts and proactive measures being implemented by the unit to deny the communist terrorists from conducting atrocities while the communities are in observance of yuletide season.

“We intensified our monitoring and operations during these holidays to ensure that these communist terrorists will not have the opportunity to unleash violence to highlight CPP’s anniversary which they usually practice in the past years,” the commander said.

He further said that the intensified operation will continue particularly in the areas where the armed CNTs are frequently sighted in order to keep them away from their traditional guerilla bases and be isolated from their former masses. He further said that with the convergence of different sectors and cooperation being extended by the civilians, the CNTs are now losing ground and running out of space.

“The recent encounter may serve as stern warning for the remaining members of the CNTs that there’s no more safe place for them. The people nowadays are aware of their deceitful tactics and they are already cooperative in our peace efforts. The CNTs' remaining option is to surrender and abandoned the armed struggle,” he added.

On the other hand, Col. Banzon expressed condolences to the families of the CNT casualties citing that they were just victims of CNT’s deceptions and lies. (CMO Officer, 901 Infantry Brigade/PIA Agusan del Norte)

Thursday, January 7, 2021

PH imposes travel restrictions to six additional countries with new COVID-19 variant

Effective tomorrow, January 8 until January 15, 2021, travelers from Portugal, India, Finland, Norway, Jordan, and Brazil or those with travel history to these countries 14 days prior to their arrival, will be subject to travel restrictions and/or quarantine and testing protocols upon arrival in the Philippines, in light of the new COVID-19 variant.

“Ang mga banyagang pasahero na manggagaling sa anim na bansang ito, or nagpunta sa mga nasabing bansa ng labing-apat na araw bago dumating sa Pilipinas, ay pinagbabawalang makapasok sa Pilipinas,” said Presidential Spokesperson Secretary Harry Roque Jr in a press briefing in Malacañang on January 7, 2021.

The Palace official said that Filipinos are exempt from the travel restriction as they will be allowed entry to the country even if they came from or have been to the said countries within 14 days before their arrival. However, returning Filipinos will have to comply with the 14-day absolute facility-based quarantine, even with a negative RT-PCR test result.

With the expected surge in COVID-19 cases because of the Christmas and New Year celebrations, and with the possible entry of the new variant, the Palace spokesman said that it was necessary to impose such restriction. “Yung temporary travel ban ay hindi naman po masyadong matagal po, January 15, at ito po ay para mabigyan naman pagkakataon makapaghanda tayo kung magkaroon nga ng surge ng kaso,” said Secretary Roque.

“Pero ang mabuting balita naman at salamat sa Panginoon, so far, hindi pa naman natin nakikita yung surge na galing po ng Pasko at Bagong Taon. Pero pinaghahandaan po natin yan. Kaya nga nagkaroon tayo ng temporary travel ban hanggang January 15,” Sec. Roque said.

Roque added that foreign passengers who will arrive before January 8, 12:01 AM, Manila time, from the said countries or who have travelled to the same countries within 14 days, will be allowed entry but will have to undergo an absolute facility-based 14-day quarantine period, even with a negative RT-PCR test result.

The Palace official further said that foreign and Filipino passengers who merely transited from the said countries will be allowed entry as long they do not leave the airport during layover or were not cleared for entry in the layover country. These transiting passengers will be allowed to do home quarantine if they obtain a negative RT-PCR test result.

“Pero kung ang transiting foreign passengers na ito ay umalis ng airport or pinayagan makapasok sa mga bansang kasali sa travel restrictions ay hindi sila maaring makapasok sa Pilipinas,” Roque clarified.

But for transiting Filipino passengers, even if they leave the airport or were cleared for entry in any of the countries in the list of countries with travel restrictions, they will still be allowed to enter the country but will be required to undergo an absolute facility-based 14-day quarantine period even with a negative RT-PCR test result.

Meanwhile, Sec. Roque said that the Office of the President also provided a ruling with regard to unaccompanied minor Filipino citizens from countries with travel restrictions. These unaccompanied minors will not be allowed entry to the country until January 15, 2021. Unaccompanied Filipino minors will only be allowed entry if they are included in the government’s repatriation program, after which they will be endorsed to an Overseas Workers Welfare Administration house parent, in coordination with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), to ensure their safety and their adherence to quarantine protocols.

If the unaccompanied minor is not included in the repatriation program of the government, and arrived before January 8, they will be turned over to a DSWD officer who can ensure their safety and their observance of quarantine protocols.

Accordingly, the Inter-Agency Task Force for Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) issued exemptions to the travel restrictions and quarantine and testing protocols for arriving passengers from countries where the Philippines’ travel ban applies. Local/accredited foreign diplomats and international organizations like the World Health Organization and United Nations will be exempt from the quarantine protocols but they will need to take an RT-PCR test upon arrival in the airport, execute an undertaking, and observe 14-day quarantine. Foreign dignitaries are also exempt but would also need to observe testing and quarantine protocols.

Those who travel for medical and emergency cases, including their medical escorts, are likewise exempt from the said travel restrictions, while those with highly exceptional and/or medical reasons as evaluated by the Department of Health, will be exempt from the quarantine protocol. The IATF also ruled that individuals who have been vaccinated in other countries will still have to undergo mandatory testing and quarantine protocols upon arrival in the country. ### OPS-PCOO

Thursday, January 7, 2021

Continuous debacles plague NPA terrorists in Caraga

By 1Lt. Krisjuper Andreo Punsalan

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur, Jan. 7 – Another Communist New People's Army Terrorist (CNT) died recently and five high-powered firearms were seized in an hour-long encounter between the 3rd Special Forces “Arrowhead” Battalion (3SFBn) troops under the 4th Infantry Division and more or less 30 CNTs under the Sub-Regional Sentro De Grabidad (SRSDG) Southland, Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee led by Rizaldy Sumonod alias “Mansoy” in Sitio Paradise, Barangay Magsaysay, Agusan del Sur.

These five firearms recovered consisted of three M16 5.56 caliber rifles, one AK-47 rifle.

Other war materials recovered were: one IHL-banned anti-personnel land mine, nine rounds 40mm M203 grenade launcher ammos, 50 rounds 7.62mm M60 ammos, two sets of commercial radios, 15 backpacks and personal belongings, medical supplies and equipment, three keypad cellular phones, one touch screen android phone, and 20 meters electrical wire.

The discovered CNT hideout is about 200 square meters (10mx20m) which can accommodate more or less 30 CNTs and had 15 makeshift tents and kitchen paraphernalia.

With the recent efforts of the National Task Force in Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) in exposing the deceptive scheme and the grand conspiracy of the Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA-National Democratic Front (NDF) within various sectors of society, people in CARAGA, particularly the Indigenous Peoples (IPs), vowed to track down Communist NPA Terrorists and their front group leaders such as the Malahutayong Pakigbisog Alang sa Sumusunod (MAPASU) to put an end to their countless atrocities and crimes against the people.

It can be recalled that CNT Jevilyn Cullamat, daughter of Bayan Muna Representative Eufemia Campos Cullamat, and top CNT leader and spokesperson of the NDF Mindanao and Komisyun Mindanao (KOMMID) Alvin Loque, suffered the same tragic fate last November 28 and December 10 sequentially in Surigao del Sur as a result of the vigilance and information gathering of the IP communities.

CNT personalities and their front groups were already declared persona-non-grata in the whole Province of Surigao del Sur and in the municipality of Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur where the recent clash between government forces and CNTs ensued.

“The succeeding debacles of the NPA Terrorists in Caraga only show that people had enough of them. They no longer have a safe haven in the IP communities because for sure they will be reported and tracked down,” said Lt. Col. Joey Baybayan, 3SFBn Commanding Officer.

“We are saddened with the fact that another victim of the CPP-NPA-NDF died in vain. We do not want this that is why we need to support the NTF-ELCAC to put an end to the CNTs’ useless struggle by peacefully addressing the root causes of NPA terrorism-that of peace and development program implementation for the conflict-affected and geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas where CNTs recruit and conduct Ideological, Political and Organizing works (IPOW),” said BGen. Allan Hambala, 401st Infantry Brigade Commander.

“We call on the remaining CNTs to bring their firearms and go down to surrender and return to the folds of law. The door towards a peaceful life is always open for those who wish to peacefully surrender. Having that said, we will remain focused and enthusiastic on our mission to end local communist armed conflict in the soonest time possible in the Caraga region,” underscored MGen. Andres C. Centino, Commander of 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army. (CMO, 3SFBn/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Kalahi-CIDSS Caraga hits 100% of NCDDP community projects for 2020

BUTUAN CITY, Jan. 7 - The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga has once again proven that it is one of the top-performing field offices of the agency in the entire country as it posted a 100 percent completion rate for its Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan - Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS) Program, completing all the 202 target subprojects (SPs) under the National Community-Driven Development Program (NCDDP).

Kalahi-CIDSS is one of the poverty alleviation programs of the government being implemented by DSWD.

Due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, Kalahi-CIDSS have adopted the Disaster Response Operation Procedure (DROP), allowing the program to shift from developmental activities into a disaster-response modality to immediately address health issues.

The NCDDP subprojects are implemented in the local government units (LGUs) of Tagana-an, Placer, Malimono, and San Francisco in Surigao del Norte province; Dinagat, San Jose, and Basilisa in Dinagat Island province; and in Madrid, Bayabas, and Barobo in Surigao del Sur province.

The 202 completed SPs under NCDDP are as follows:

- Construction/Installation of quarantine/isolation facility - 69 SPs

- Cash for Work – 65 SPs
- Procurement of Disaster Response/Rescue Equipment – 34 SPs
- Procurement of communication device – 7 SPs
- Communal handwash facility – 7 SPs
- Sanitary toilet - 5 SPs
- Refurbishment/conversion of Community Center / Multi-Purpose Building into isolation facility – 5 SPs
- Refurbishment of school building – 3 SPs
- Refurbishment of day care center – 3 SPs
- Refurbishment of barangay hall – 2 SPs
- Installation of water system – 1 SP
- Capability Building / Training / Feasibility Study – 1 SP

Kalahi-CIDSS Regional Program Coordinator Bennette Dave Calo is thankful to all partner LGUs and to the Regional Program Management Office and field staff for the said success.

"To all our partner LGUs and stakeholders, thank you for your unwavering support and desire in the implementation of Kalahi-CIDSS NCDDP despite the challenges and struggles brought by the pandemic," Calo said.

“To all RPMO and field staff who accept and dares to believe in struggles, thank you for stepping up in overcoming these challenges. Congratulations on the brilliant success. Indeed, there is no shortcut to success,” Calo added.

Meanwhile, eight out of 10 target subprojects for 2020 under the PAyapa at MAsaganang PamayaNAn Indigenous Peoples Community-Driven Development (PAMANA IP CDD) are still ongoing.

The RPMO and Area Coordinating Teams are working overtime to finish these projects as soon as possible for the beneficiary communities. (DSWD-13/PIA-Caraga)

Army gives gifts to conflict-affected areas in Agusan Norte

By Cpt. Joash U. Pramis

KITCHARAO, Agusan del Norte, Jan. 7 – The Philippine Army through the 29th Infantry “Matatag Fighters” Battalion (29IB) in partnership with the local government unit of Jabonga conducted a Christmas drop program in Sitio Apa-apa, Barangay Bangonay, Jabonga, Agusan del Norte.

The said activity is a credit initiative of 4th Infantry "Diamond" Division (4iD) Commander, MGen. Andres C. Centino for the people of conflict-affected areas to feel that the government cares for them.

The activity was an integration of various sectors of the government which includes the Philippine Army through the efforts of 901st Brigade, 29IB and 30IB, the local government unit of Jabonga led by Mayor Napoleon Montero.

Food packs, toys, and clothes were distributed to more than 200 residents of Sitio Inayaw and Sitio Apa-apa, Jabonga, Agusan del Norte.

Marwin Serrano, punong barangay of Sitio Apa-apa, thanked the army for the gifts they have received. “Akong dakong pasalamat kay ania ang mga kasundaluhan niduyog ug nanghatag ug regalo diri sa amua, nga ilaha ming gitagaan ug saktong pagtagad labi natong mga lumad. Daghan kaayong salamat (I am very grateful that the troops are here to join and give gifts here in front of us, who have given us the proper attention especially our natives. Thank you very much),” he said.

For his part, Mayor Napoleon Montero was very happy to see his constituents attending the activity of the Philippine Army. "We are lucky that in most barangays, Barangay Bangonay has been chosen to receive Christmas gifts so I hope we will not support another group- the NPA because the Philippine Army is here to help," he said.

"On behalf of LGU Jabonga, we are very thankful to the Philippine Army that they chose Brgy. Bangonay to this program," added Mayor Montero.

According to Col. George Banzon, 901 Brigade Commander, the said activity is their continuous plan to manifest and make the people feel the spirit of Christmas. "This is not just about the efforts of our soldiers alone, we, the soldiers are just instruments of the government to deliver all of these," Col. Banzon said.

"Along with the hope of Mayor Montero, I am appealing to you if you know someone, friends, and classmates in school who are deceived by the NPAs to go with them and join them in moving into the mountains for their armed struggle, please let us save them. Let us neglect our friends who are deceived by twisted words, by twisted promises,” he added.

Col. Banzon emphasized that the residents can ask for help and in return, the troops are ever willing to help those whoever will seek help. (CMO Officer, 901 Infantry Brigade/PIA Agusan del Norte)

Wednesday, January 6, 2021

PH gov't officials explain vaccination program for all Filipinos

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Jan. 6 – During the first vaccine cluster briefing hosted by the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) and Philippine Information Agency (PIA), government officials assured Filipinos on the implementation of the vaccination program this year.

Invited guest speakers are National Task Force (NTF) Chief Implementer and Vaccine Czar Sec. Carlito Galvez Jr.; NTF Deputy Chief Implementer Sec. Vince Dizon; Philippine Information Agency Director-General Usec. Ramon Cualoping III; Food and Drug Administration Director-General Usec. Eric Domingo; Department of Science and Technology Executive Director Jaime Montoya; and World Health Organization Representative Dr. Socorro Escalante.

Usec. Cualoping highlighted that it has always been the vision of President Rodrigo Duterte since 2016 to provide a comfortable life for all the Filipino people. "And now in the midst of the pandemic, it is our goal to have a safe and effective vaccine available for all Filipinos," he said.

“Bida Solusyon is the government's strong and cohesive information campaign against the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. It aims to encourage Filipinos to take an active role in the fight against the common enemy. With Bida Solusyon plus the availability of the vaccines, we hope to bring the lives of Filipinos back to normal," added Cualoping.

Secretary Galvez also stressed that no one will be left behind, all Filipinos will be vaccinated. The government is negotiating with the different companies/suppliers to ensure the supply of the vaccine.

“Health care workers, indigent senior citizens, poor communities, uniformed personnel, teachers and school workers, government workers, essential workers, vulnerable and co-morbid groups, Overseas Filipino Workers, other remaining workforce, and students are among the priority sectors to be vaccinated,” Galvez bared.

Galvez further said that the expanded vaccine access is in partnership with the private sector and the local government units (LGUs). "The vaccine program is not the sole responsibility of the government. This is the reason why the whole-of-government and the whole-of-nation approach shall be adopted, maximizing manpower, expertise, and processes to ensure integrated implementation of the COVID-19 immunization program," he said.

Dr. Jaime Montoya of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-Philippine Council for Health Research and Development emphasized that the task group on Scientific Evaluation and Selection reviews the results of clinical trials, existing evidence, and international recommendations to ensure that the best vaccine will be chosen that is safe and effective for the Filipinos.

"Complying to scientific standards ensures that a COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective for humans. It also guarantees that the trials conducted followed the highest ethical requirements/standards. All vaccine candidates are required to undergo clinical trials, or experiments involving humans, to test its safety and efficacy," he said.

Meanwhile, according to Secretary Vince Dizon, NTF Deputy Chief Implementer, the target number of Filipinos to be vaccinated this year is at 50 to 70 million Filipinos. "We believe that with the support of the Filipino people, we could achieve this goal. We thank the LGUs, mayors, governors, and other officials, as well as the private sector who have been with us since the onset of the pandemic," said Sec. Dizon. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

56 former rebels receive E-CLIP benefits in AgSur

By 2Lt. Cecille Tappa

TALACOGON, Agusan del Sur, Jan. 6 – Fifty-six (56) former rebels (FRs) from the province of Agusan del Sur received benefits during the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) Awarding held recently at the Naliyagan Ground, Patin-ay, Prosperidad, this province.

The province awarded livelihood assistance amounting to P50,000.00, immediate assistance of P15,000.00 and firearms remuneration to the 31 FRs of 3rd Special Forces Battalion, 26 FRs of 26 Infantry (Ever Onward) Battalion, three FRs of Philippine National Police and one FR of 401st Infantry (Unity) Brigade.

“Dako kaayo among pasalamat kay tinood gayud ang gisaad kanamu nga kami pagatabangan sa gobyerno alang sa among pagsugod sa bag-ong kinabuhi nga gawasnon kauban ang among pamilya, kining maong kantidad daku na kini ug ikatabang aron kami maka tukod sa among panginabuhian diri patag uban ang among pamilya, ug ako naga agni sa among kanhi kaubanan nga anaa pa sa kabukiran nga musurender na aron makabaton usan kamu ug kalinaw sa pag puyo uban ang inyong mga mahal sa kinabuhi (We are very thankful that the government has been true to its promise to us, as we will start a new life with our family in the mainstream society. This financial assistance is of great help for our family, and I’m encouraging those who are still in the movement to surrender and live a peaceful dwelling)," said alias ‘Jorja’, a former rebel.

E-CLIP is a government program intended for the re-integration of all members of the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People's Army - National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) who will support the peace negotiation program of the government and ultimately lay down their arms to the fold of law. It was made possible through the generous support of Agusan del Sur Gov. Santiago B. Cane Jr. in collaboration with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Provincial Social Welfare and Development (PSWD), Department of Health (DOH), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

"The pandemic has brought huge changes in our lives, it affects every Filipino, but the provincial government will not cease to look for innovation and initiatives to implement the government programs to all our constituents especially to our brothers and sisters who have decided to choose the right path in the mainstream society,” underscored Cane. 

Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Reynald Romel A Goce, Commanding Officer of 26IB cheered all the FRs upon receiving the E-CLIP benefits. "Congratulations to all of you who have just received the livelihood and immediate assistance from the government. I hope that you will be wise in spending all of your money, start a business and earn a living. The government is always ready to help you, but first, you must help yourselves,” he said.

"Our door remains open in accepting those who want to live a peaceful life. We are offering you a way out to surrender but if you continue to resist, I will assure you that the government will stop you until no one is left in the armed struggle,” Goce ended. (Acting CMO, 26IB/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Army distributes gift packages to far-flung villagers in AgSur town

TALACOGON, Agusan del Sur, Jan. 6 - The residents of Sitio Kamalangan, Barangay Binicalan, San Luis of this province have recently received gift packages from the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division (4ID), Philippine Army.

The 4ID under the command of Major General Andres C. Centino initiated the said activity as a way of sharing blessings to the underprivileged, those who lack access to better opportunities, far-flung and isolated communities in its area of operation.

A total of 503 residents received the gift packages which consisted of foods, clothes, slippers, shoes, blankets, sleeping mats, mosquito nets, toys, and school supplies. The distribution was facilitated by the 26th Infantry (Ever Onward) Battalion.

Sitio Kamalangan of Brgy. Binicalan was chosen as the beneficiary since it is considered as one of the remote communities in the province.

Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Reynald Romel A. Goce expressed his gratitude to 4ID for choosing Sitio Kamalangan as the beneficiary in its area of operations. "Thank you to 4ID team for bringing cheers to the residents in this far-flung barangay," he said.

"The leadership of 4ID continues to intensify linkages with the different stakeholders in order to reach out to all remotely isolated areas in our Area of Operations. Our main goal for conducting this kind of activity is to bring the spirit of Christmas to the locals amidst COVID-19," said Maj. Gen. Centino.

"It is our genuine desire to give hope and joy to the less fortunate people this holiday season. We will not stop here, there's more we can offer to the people with the support of our active partner agencies, I guarantee that the government services will reach even into the most isolated areas,” he added. (2Lt. Cecille Tappa, acting CMO, 26IB/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Konstruksyon sa bagong tulay sa Agusan del Norte sinimulan na

By Nora C. Lanuza

LUNGSOD NG BUTUAN, Enero 6 (PIA) – Sinimulan na ang konstruksyon ng higit kalahating kilometrong tulay na inaasahang makakatulong sa paglago ng ekonomiya sa probinsya ng Agusan del Norte at karatig lugar nito.

Ang nasabing tulay ay pinaglaanan ng pamahalaan ng isa’t kalahating bilyong pisong pondo.

Laking pasasalamat ni Mayor Avelina Rosales ng Las Nieves kay Presidente Rodrigo Duterte sa tulong ni Congresswoman Maria Angelica Rosedell Amante-Matba dahil sa pag-apruba ng konstrukyon nito. Ayon pa ni Rosales, matagal na itong hinihintay ng mga mamamayan sa lugar, simula pa noong taong 2015.

Ang konstruksyon ay magsisimula sa Barangay Malicato at sinuguro ni Gobernador Dale Corvera na sa loob ng tatlo hanggang limang taong konstruksyon ng tulay, tuloy-tuloy ang budget nito.

Siniguro din ni Cong. Matba na sa gagawing konstruksyon sa tulay, magkakaroon ng trabaho ang mga mamamayan sa nasabing lugar.

Sa ginawang ground breaking ceremony, ipinaalam din ni Project Engr. Jerome Meso na magsisimula na ang konstruksyon nito.

Ang Las Nieves ay may 20 barangays at isang second class municipality na may 28,414 populasyon base sa 2015 census. (NCLM/PIA Agusan del Norte)

Mayo gideklarang bulan sa pamilya sa LGU Carmen

By Ramil L. Pasco

DAKBAYAN SA BUTUAN, Enero 6 -- Mamahimo nang ‘Family Month’ ang bulan sa Mayo sa lungsod sa Carmen ning lalawigan kada tuig human gi-aprobahan ug gidiklarang balido sa Sangguniang Panlalawigan sa Agusan del Norte atol sa ika 70 nga sesyon regular kaniadtong Desyembre 21, 2020 ang Municipal Ordinance No. 62-2020 nga nagdeklara niini.

Nakita sa Committee on Municipal Affairs diin tsirman si Board Member Meriam G. Pagaran nga ang nahisgutang lakang nahiuyon sa Article II, Section 12 of the 1987 Constitution, nga naghatag estado nga giila ang kabalaan sa kinabuhi sa pamilya nga mapanalipdan ug palig-onon aron sa ingon nga kini ang prayoridad nga pagdumala sa kaugalingon diha sa katilingban ug kabahin na sa atong kultora.

Subay usab kini sa Proclamation No. 847, nga giisyu ni kanhing pangulo Benigno C. Aquino III, nga gideklara nga ang ika-upat nga domingo sa Septyembre isip adlaw sa pasalamat sa pamilya.

Ang maong lakang gipalabang pinaagi sa Sanggunian Resolution No. 602-2020 sa pagpanginahan ni Board Member Pagaran, tsirman sa Committee on Municipal Affairs, inubanan nila Board Member Benjamin D. Lim Jr. ug Board Member Francisco Y. Chan, Jr., isip mga co-authors. (LGU Agusan del Norte/PIA Agusan del Norte)