Friday, May 13, 2022

COMELEC Caraga readies for Barangay Election in December 2022

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY -- After a peaceful conduct of the May 9, 2022 national and local elections, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Caraga is now preparing for the upcoming Barangay Election in December. 

The COMELEC called on the electorates to help and contribute to the upcoming event, just as they supported the recently concluded elections in the region. 

“Voter’s registration will resume in July 2022, and we have noted all the issues and concerns that were raised during the May 9, 2022 national and local elections that could help improve our strategies in making our upcoming election successful,” said Atty. Geraldine Samson, assistant regional election director of COMELEC Caraga.

Samson thanked all the sectors in the region for actively participating in the national and local elections and for making it peaceful. 

“I’d like to give credit to all the Caraganons who are peace-loving people in helping us make the elections peaceful and orderly. Thank you also to all the law enforcement agencies for providing the best security for our teachers who served during the national and local elections in the different polling centers, as well as to the women and men of COMELEC Caraga for all your hard work and sacrifices,” she said.

When asked how many defective vote-counting machines (VCMs) that were reported during the conduct of the May 9, 2022 national and local elections,  Samson revealed that there were a total of 27 defective VCMs and two defective SD cards reported from various polling centers/precincts in the region, but it was immediately fixed as there are designated technical hubs available in every province, and there are readily available contingency machines.

Samson

“We have 13 contingency VCMs for Agusan del Norte; 11 for Surigao del Norte; and 17 for Surigao del Sur,” she added.

In precincts that encountered defective vote-counting machines (VCMs), voters were asked to choose from two options (per COMELEC guidelines) -– to wait until the machine is fixed and so they could personally feed their ballot to the VCM, or to sign a waiver and allow the BEI to feed it on the machine, should they want to leave the polling center after they cast their votes. 

“Should they choose option 2 which is to sign a waiver, there’s nothing to be worried about because there are also watchers inside the precinct who could see if the ballots are already fed to the machine and their votes will be counted,” she said. 

She further assured that the COMELEC has noted all the issues and concerns raised during the May 2022 elections, and stressed that the COMELEC along with other law enforcement agencies will improve its strategies to better serve the Caraganon electorates for the upcoming barangay election. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

 

Friday, May 13, 2022

DPWH improves access road to white sand beaches in SurSur town, more visitors expected to come this summer

SURIGAO DEL SUR -- Summer is more fun for beach lovers now that the access road to one of the white sand beaches in Lianga, Surigao del Sur is being improved by the Department of Public Works and Highways Regional Office XIII. 

Residents and visitors praised the DPWH for the ongoing construction of roads and bridge in NRJ – Sitio Cansoan – Ganayon leading to White Sand Beach in Lianga Town because going to the beach will soon be easier and faster.

The project is programmed in 2021-2022 budget allocation with a total of Php 182,190,000.00. According to Regional Director Pol M. Delos Santos, the first  budget amounting of Php 126,598,336.60 was released under Regular Infra FY 2021. The project is now  progressing, with scheduled  accomplishment of 51.44% as of April 30, 2022. 

Meanwhile, the contract for the continuation of the project under FY 2022 is also underway.

“We are fast-tracking this so that people can enjoy their summer now that restrictions to COVID-19 are loosened”, Regional Director Pol M. Delos Santos explained. 

“Beachgoers will no longer walk the 1-kilometer small pathway because vehicles will soon have  access towards the beach resort areas”, he added.

The project involves road upgrading (unpaved to paved) of 1.10 kilometers of road with the construction of 60.00 l.m. bridge and provision of drainage and slope protection. 

Surigao del Sur is known to have beautiful beaches and tourist spots.  Once the project is complete, it will attract and open many opportunities, such as increasing tourist arrivals, boosting tourism in the municipality, and, eventually, providing employment and income to its people.

It is a welcomed addition to the infrastructure development in the Municipality of Lianga since the Local Government of Surigao del Sur envisions the province to become the Tourism Hub in Caraga due to its numerous tourist destinations, and the Regional Development Council (RDC) is keener in making the vision a reality because it is integral to the long-term developmental goal of the region. (DPWH-Caraga/PIA Surigao del Sur)

Thursday, May 12, 2022

DepEd-13 commenced 2022 NLA

BUTUAN CITY -- With the celebration of the National Literacy Week and International Literacy Day, the Department of Education (DepEd)-Caraga through the Literacy Coordination Council (LCC) commenced the preparatory measures for the 2022 National Literacy Awards (NLA).

The National Literacy Awards (NLA)is a biennial activity that recognizes the exemplary literacy practices of various outstanding individuals, institutions, Local Government Units (LGUs), and Non-government organizations (NGOs) that contributed to eradicating illiteracy in their communities. This is also to encourage the development of creative, innovative, and indigenous literacy programs.

The Literacy Coordination Council has set the following categories:

• Outstanding Literacy Program;
• Outstanding Local Government Unit (LGU);
• Highly Urbanized City;
• Component City/Independent Component City;
• First to Third Class Municipality, and;
• Fourth to Sixth Class Municipality.

The Local Government Units (LGU) and Non-government Organizations (NGOs) that have sustained their exemplary performances for three years after winning shall be awarded a Special Award of Excellence in Literacy. 

The First-place winners for having maintained their rank for three years, consecutive or non-consecutive,  will be eligible for the Hall of Fame Awards.

Meanwhile, the Literacy Coordination Council (LCC) may recommend any outstanding literacy program implemented by NLA awardees to the UNESCO International Literacy Prize based on which category it will fit. 

The 2022 National Literacy Awards (NLA) will be held in September 2022. (MCeledeña/DepEd-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Thursday, May 12, 2022

Seminar-workshop gihimo pagpalambo sa performance sa mga emplyado sa probinsyal nga panggamhanan sa Agusan del Norte

DAKBAYAN SA BUTUAN -- Gisugdan karon, Mayo 12, ang duha ka adlaw nga Seminar-Workshop sa Strategic Performance Management System (SPMS) sa matag empleyado sa probinsya sa Agusan del Norte. 

Unang gihatagan og pagbansay ang mga Chief of hospitals ug mga representante sa provincial hospital, district ug municipal hospitals sa probinsya sa kalihukan nga gihimo sa Provincial Training Center, Provincial Capitol, Butuan City. 

Ang SPMS magsilbing pamaagi pagsukod sa kalidad, efficiency ug timeliness lakip na ang competencies sa matag empleyado base sa performance niini pagseguro nga mahimo niya ang mandato ug mga tahas sa iyang trabaho.

Ubos sa SPMS tutokan usab ang Office Performance & Commitment Review (OPCR) ug Individual Performance Commitment and Review (IPCR) sa matag usa, apil na ang Financial Plan, Research and Development Plan, Procurement Plan, Human Resource Plan ug Recruitment selection.

Sumala ni Dir. Christopher C. Mabale sa Civil Service Commission (CSC) Caraga nga kinahanglan masabtan unsa ang vision sa probinsya isip direksyon sa panerbisyo sa matag empleydao.

Dugang ni Mabale nga ang vision sa probinsya sa Agusan del Norte kinahanglang ma-translate into programs aron makalatag ug mga programa alang sa mga Agusanons nga maoy basehan sa performance sa matag empleyado.

Ang SPMS usa pod sa requirements sa CSC nga gitawag nga Performance Management: A Component of PRIME-HRM.

Himoon ang sunod nga SPMS sa uban pang mga departamento ug opisina sa probinsya sa Hunyo ning tuiga.

Ang probinsya sa Agusan del Norte naglantaw ubos sa kasamtangang adninistrason ni Gob. Dale B. Corvera nga mahimong “Agricultural Processing Center sa Caraga Region pag abot sa tuig 2027,” direksyon sa pagpalambo nga maoy mahimong panukaran sa tahas sa matag empleyado. 

Kini usab ang panglantaw sa gisundan ni Gob. Corvera nga administrasyon ni Kanhi Gob. Angel Amante-Matba, ang kongresista sa Segundo distrito karon ug mobalik isip gobernador karong Hunyo. 

Si Gob. Corvera magsilbi sugod sa Hunyo isip kongresista apan base sa iyang mga pamahayag padayong suportahan niya ang katumanan sa maong panglataw diha sa mga palisiya nga iyang pandayon ug mga programa nga himoon sa distrito ug nakita niya nga dakung tabang ang SPMS sa pagseguro nga matutokan sa mga empleyado ang ang pagkab-ot ning maong panglanw.

Ang Performance Management Team (PMT) sa probinsya sa Agusan del Norte nag compose sa mga buhatan sa Provincial Planning and Development Office [PPDO], Provincial Human Resource and Management Office (PHRMO), Provincial Governor’s Office (PGO), PECAN, Provincial Accounting Office [PASSO], Provincial Treasurer’s Office (PTO) ug Provincial Budget Office (PBO).

Personal usab nga mitambong si Provincial Board Member Board Member Virgilio Escasiñas, Jr., Dr. Tomas O. Tener, Jr. sa PPDO, Jo-anne E. Cenas sa PHRMO. (Agusan Up/PIA Agusan del Norte)

 

Thursday, May 12, 2022

DTI-13 to hold Balanghai Edition trade fair

BUTUAN CITY -- In time with the Balangay Festival 2022 Celebration, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Caraga is set to hold a trade fair dubbed as "Buy Caraga By Caraga: 2022 Balanghai Edition" the first local exhibit for the year 2022.

This edition of the Buy Caraga By Caraga highlights the fashion parade, where the exhibitors showcase and model their food and non-food products on May 15, 2022 at 2:00 pm at the SM City Butuan.

A total of 153 exhibitors will be participating in the said trade fair coming from the different provinces of Caraga Region.

The activity is conducted to provide the local entrepreneurs a venue where they can feature their products and help increase the awareness of the Caraganons on their locally produced products.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Caraga invites everyone to visit and support the 7-day regional trade fair on May 15-21, 2022 at 10:00am to 9:00pm at the SM City Butuan. DTI-Caraga also encourages everyone to observe the standard health protocols during the said activity. (MCeledeña/DTI-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

Thursday, May 12, 2022

Balangay Festival 2022, pormal nang gi-ablihan

DAKBAYAN SA BUTUAN -- Pormal nang gi-ablihan ang Balangay Festival 2022 human sa duha ka tuig nga pakig bisog sa COVID-19. 

Gipakita sa programa ang paghulagway sa kasaysayan sa Butuan pinaagi sa sayaw. Lakip na ang nahitabo nga COVID-19 rason nganong duha ka tuig wala nasaulog ang kapiyestahan.

Liboan sa mga Butuanon ang mitambong sa kasaulogan.

Sa mensahe ni Mayor Ronnie Vicente Lagnada mapasalamaton siya tungod nasaulog na balik ang Balangay Festival sa mga Butuan. Nagpasalamat sab siya nga misalig ang katawhan sa mga programa ug misunod sa protocol para mabalik ang kalingawan bisan paman sa new normal.

Para mahimong opisyal ang pag sugod sa selebrasyon, nag taas og wine glass ang mga City Officials sa syudad ug ang mga Head of Offices. Anaa sab fire works display nga mas nag pa nindot sa selebrasyon.

Ang Balangay Festival molungtad hangtud Mayo 19, 2022. Gi-awhag ang tanan sa pag suporta sa tanan kalingawan sa syudad. (Butuan City PIO/PIA Agusan del Norte) 

Thursday, May 12, 2022

Newly elected officials, asked to prioritize public welfare

DAVAO CITY— President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has called on the new set of elected officials to earnestly serve the Filipino people and prioritize public welfare above everything.

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte talks to the people after holding a meeting with key government officials at the Arcadia Active Lifestyle Center in Matina, Davao City on May 11, 2022. JOEY DALUMPINES/ PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

In his Talk to the People aired Thursday morning, President Duterte congratulated in advance those who will be victorious in the 2022 elections and also thanked the losing candidates.

“I am hopeful that you will serve the Filipino people with all your heart and ability, and prioritize the welfare of the general public above everything,” the President said.

And to the losing candidates, he thanked them for their participation in the electoral process, hoping that although they weren’t lucky, they will continue “to serve our people in your capacity as leaders in your respective sectors and communities”.

Congratulating the Filipino people, he said: “You made the elections successful because you have made your will known by performing your sacred right and duty to vote.”

President Duterte likewise lauded the efforts of the Commission on Elections (Comelec), soldiers, policemen, poll workers, and volunteers in ensuring the peaceful conduct of the elections.

At the same time, he encouraged the Filipino public to continue supporting the Comelec and its civil society partners so that the poll body could do its work correctly and proclaim the winners.

The President expressed hope that the Comelec would find time to investigate the reported election glitches to ensure the sanctity of the ballot.

The chief executive also called on Filipinos to unite as he concludes his term.

“By noon of June 30, I invite the public to join me in running behind our new elected leaders so we can continue the difficult but rewarding task of building a stronger and more progressive nation,” he said. PND

Thursday, May 12, 2022

President Duterte thanks scientists, medical frontliners for aiding gov’t in COVID-19 fight

DAVAO CITY—President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Thursday, May 12, thanked the medical and scientific community, as well as frontliners for remarkably fighting COVID-19 alongside his administration.

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte presides over a meeting with key government officials prior to his "Talk to the People" at the Arcadia Active Lifestyle Center in Matina, Davao City on May 11, 2022. JOEY DALUMPINES/ PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

“The Philippines was able to manage the deadly coronavirus disease largely due to the combined efforts of the country’s doctors, scientists, and other frontliners,” President Duterte said in his weekly Talk to the People program.

“I likewise thank the Filipino people for continuing to cooperate with the health authorities and for following health protocols. Pasalamat sa lahat, lahat na who participated in the fight against COVID,” he added.

Despite the low coronavirus infection rate in the country, President Duterte cautioned the public not be complacent and continue observing the government’s minimum public health standards such as frequent handwashing, social distancing, and mask wearing.

“We still have to follow the minimum requirements to avoid recontamination kung natamaan ka na because there is --- it can infect you again and again,” he pointed out.

“Pero ‘yung requirement ng gobyerno sa mask sa tao nakatulong talaga ‘yan because it can really prevent itong ano, ‘yung surge. Nakatulong talaga itong masks basta you wear it properly,” he said.

The country has less than 4,000 active COVID-19 cases, the President reported.

Meanwhile, Health Undersecretary Dr. Abdullah Dumama, who was also present in the meeting, said the Department of Health (DOH) is doing strict surveillance to monitor any possible entry of emerging coronavirus disease variants in the country and prevent a surge.

According to Dumama, the entire health department is prepared to address any uptick in cases of emerging COVID-19 variants.

He also appealed to Filipinos to get vaccinated and boosted to enhance the population’s immunity to the respiratory disease.

The DOH has recorded 109 new COVID-19 cases on May 11, bringing the country’s total number of infections to 3,687,428 with 3,623,661 recoveries, 60,439 deaths, and 3,328 active cases. PND

Thursday, May 12, 2022

Caraga police ready for Post-Election

BUTUAN CITY --  The Regional Director of Police Regional Office 13, Police Brigadier General Romeo M. Caramat, Jr., assured the public that the police are ready to respond to any possible eventualities after the conduct of the 2022 National and Local Elections in Caraga region. 

"Personnel deployed to secure polling precincts were recalled and have returned to respective police units and are now performing police operations," the region's top cop said. 

He added that part of the early preparations for the election is the setting of Contingency Plans for the Post-Election Period, where protests or any unrest are possible. 

"We successfully kept the elections peaceful; I am positive that this peace will continue even after the election with our stringent security measures," RD CARAMAT JR stressed out. 

Meanwhile, he reminded the public that the democracy we enjoy has an associated responsibility to adhere to the law, and anyone who commits illegal activities will be put behind bars. (PMaj Dorothy M. Tumulak, PIO, PNP13/PIA Caraga)

 

Thursday, May 12, 2022

Gun-for-hire member, suspect for murder collared by Surigao Norte police

BUTUAN CITY -- A member of gun-for-hire operating in the province of Surigao del Norte and one of the suspects in a fatal shooting incident in Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte that killed two persons on July 15, 2008, was arrested during a law enforcement operation at Purok 3, Brgy. Ipil, Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte on Wednesday, May 11.

Police Brigadier General Romeo M. Caramat, Jr., Police Regional Office (PRO) 13 director, identified the arrested person as Antonio E. Andrade, 60 years old, a resident of P-3, Brgy. Tapian, Mainit, Surigao del Norte.

The operation stemmed from the  warrant of arrest issued by RTC Branch 30, Surigao City, dated January 17, 2011, for murder under Criminal Case No. 8967, with no bail bond recommended.

Andrade is Gigaquit police's most wanted person.  

“Continuous intelligence monitoring and public cooperation significantly contributed to the successful arrest of the suspect. This success proves that the public plays a vital role in combating crime and achieving peace and order in the community,” said PBGen. Caramat, Jr. (PMaj. Dorothy M. Tumulak, Police Regional Office-13/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

Thursday, May 12, 2022

Local officials asked not to get involved in illegal drugs

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has made an appeal to the newly elected local officials not to violate people’s trust by staying away from the illegal drug trade.

“I hope that huwag lang sanang magsali uli itong mga — hindi naman ako nagwa-warning kasi paalis na ako,” President Duterte said during his Talk to the People program aired on Thursday.

“Ang pakiusap ko lang, iyong mga mayors to be true to — the governors and all of the officials especially those elected by the people — do not violate the trust that the people has reposed on us kasi lalo na ‘yung sa droga.”

Tackling the proliferation of illicit narcotics is an uphill battle for the government considering the huge amount of money involved, he said, stressing it can’t be addressed by simple police or military operation.

“Mahirap. Noon nga sabi ko milyon-milyon; ngayon, bilyon-bilyon na. Ang market nito is... Kaya ito talaga, it has to be a war. Hindi ito sabihin mo special operation ng pulis o military,” he pointed out, noting the drug trade is a sinister and virulent activity that affects a nation’s life.

The President said he would insist on a continuance of the drug war, and vowed to remain active fighting illegal drugs even if he becomes a private citizen after his term.

Pointing to the next administration, he said, “I hope that I said the next administration would be maybe a stronger pressure sa ginawa ko, mas mabuti. Pabalik-balik ‘yung droga eh. Hindi talaga maano.”

Interior Secretary Eduardo Año said in his report to the President that although it’s election season, authorities have conducted 566 anti-drug operations. Three hundred ninety seven of those operations are buy-bust operations.

The police buy-bust resulted in the arrest of 795 persons, with 14 individuals surrendering. One person died during the anti-drug operations, according to Secretary Año.

In total, authorities netted P76.8 million worth of shabu and marijuana.  PND

Thursday, May 12, 2022

PNP AgSur chief highlights peaceful conduct of NLE 2022 

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur – The Agusan del Sur Police Provincial Office (ADSPPO) headed by Police Colonel Jovito C Canlapan, Acting Provincial Director, announced a Safe, Fair, Orderly, Credible and Peaceful conduct of recently concluded National and Local Elections 2022 in the province of Agusan del Sur.

ADSPPO activated the Provincial Election Monitoring Action Center (PEMAC) in collaboration with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and other agencies, for the sharing, validation, and counter validation of information relative to the elections. 

 

Data from PEMAC revealed that there is no reported untoward incident in the province during Election Day.

 

Some 1,136 PNP personnel were deployed to the different barangays of Agusan del Sur four days before the election day to provide security and ensure the safety in the polling centers. 

 

"I would like to congratulate the men and women of ADSPPO for a peaceful and successful conduct of election in our beloved province. My sincere gratitude to all of you for securing your designated area and ensuring the safety of everybody. Good job everyone!," PCol Canlapan said.

 

"To the populace of Agusan del Sur, thank you so much for cooperating with us. Dealing with thousands of people is never easy, but you made it manageable for us. You only proved that AgSurnons are well disciplined people” he added.

 

This is in line with the Community perspective of the PNP P.A.T.R.O.L. Plan 2030, the Transformation Program of the Organization. (PNP-Agusan del Sur/ PIA-Agusan del Sur) 

Thursday, May 12, 2022

KALAHI-CIDSS isolation facility to benefit the  2,310 individuals in La Paz village

BUTUAN CITY -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) handed recently an isolation facility to Barangay Villa Paz in La Paz town, Agusan del Sur province, that will benefit 529 households or 2,310 individuals.

The isolation facility, which is a subproject of DSWD's Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS), is a collapsible tent with 12 rooms that will be used to quarantine suspected coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) residents.

 

Each room is complete with folding bed, sleeping kit, chair, table, and electric fan. The facility has two restrooms and a hand wash area.

 

The subproject started on February 17, 2022 and was completed on March 17, 2022. It amounted to Php758, 353.

 

"Dili ta magdahum nga naay mabutang diha sa isolation facility. However, andam na ta kung mosaka na pud ang cases sa COVID. Gihagit ko kamo pag atiman sa maong proyekto (We are not expecting that there will be people who will be placed in the isolation facility. However, we are now ready just in case COVID-19 cases will rise again)," DSWD Caraga Assistant Regional Director for Operations Jean Paul S. Parajes said during the turnover ceremony.

 

"Base sa atong record, dili lang kining isolation facility, aduna nay two classrooms, solar dryer, and solar lights nga na-implemtar diri sa Barangay Villa Paz pinaagi sa KALAHI-CIDSS nga programa (Based on our records, apart from the isolation facility, we also have 2 classrooms, solar dryer, and solar lights for Barangay Villa Paz thru the implementation of KALAHI-CIDSS program)," Parajes said.

Villa Paz residents were grateful for the project and the chance to be part of DSWD KALAHI-CIDSS.

 

"Nalipay kaayo ko nga nagboluntaryo sa KALAHI. Nalipay kaayo ko nga kami apil sa pagplano sa buluhaton, pag assist sa pagimplemntar, sa pagedukar sa community, ug pag himamat uban sa akong mga kauban nga volunteers sa DSWD KALAHI (I’m very glad to have volunteered in KALAHI. I’m even happier to be part of the planning on the things to be done, to assist in the implementation, in educating the community, and to have met my co-volunteers in DSWD KALAHI)," said Janeth Emong, chairperson of the  Barangay Development Council Technical Worker Group.

 

"Gitugot nako akong kaugalingon nga mag boluntaryo kay tungod gusto sab ako maktabang arun sa paglambo sa among barangay hilabi kay tungod naa ang krisis sa COVID-19 (I have allowed myself to volunteer because I want to help my barangay especially during this time of COVID-19 pandemic)," Emong said.

 

On the other hand, Datu Andipayon Pendon Jr., who is the Indigenous People Mandatory Representative of CADT 117, said he is thankful to all the workers of DSWD who made all the community projects in La Paz possible.

 

KALAHI-CIDSS is one of the poverty alleviation programs of the government being implemented by DSWD. (DSWD-Caraga/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

 

Thursday, May 12, 2022

Criminal charges filed vs. 12 arrested in Surigao Norte town for illegal possession of firearms

BUTUAN CITY -- Criminal charges were already filed against 12 arrested men in Malimono, Surigao del Norte for illegal possession of firearms, Police Regional Office (PRO) 13 Regional Director PBGen. Romeo M. Caramat, Jr., said Wednesday, May 11.

The suspects were arrested in a separate operation by the combined elements of Malimono Municipal Police Station, Regional Mobile Force Battalion 13, and the Philippine Army on May 8, at Brgy. Binucaran, after responding to a report that said armed men were in their village. Other suspects however were flagged during a checkpoint operation on May 9, at Brgy. Pili.

In a statement, PBGen. Caramat, Jr. revealed that violation of the Republic Act No. 10591 (Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulations Act) and COMELEC Resolution No. 10728 (Comelec Gun ban) were filed by Malimono police against Bryan Canibel Sala of P-5, Brgy. Binocaran, Malimono, Surigao del Norte; Kieth Acelo Non of Brgy. Alfonso, Tagaytay, Cavite; Michael Angelo Talosig Andres of 250 Brgy. 3, Aluminus Laguna; Falcon Eral Sinaca of Brgy. San Isidro, Malimono, Surigao del Norte; Lino Sales Obre of Brgy. Muzon, San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan; Ernesto Adloan Balopeños of Brgy. Poblacion, Brooks Point, Palawan; Julius Dalman Cabonce of Purok Sta Cruz, Brgy. Duhinob, Dipolog City; Ricky Zabalero Banlas of Brgy. Magtangale, Balingoan, Misamis Oriental; Adulla Malic Sahalain of Lustre-Sta Catalina, Zamboanga City; Edgar Alba Diaz of San Vicente 1, Bislig City; Avenir Adelantar Lim of Lower Calarian, Zamboanga City; and Junypeth Baroca Sumili of Purok Caimito, Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay after they found a M4 Caliber 5.56MM Commando Enhance rifle, M4 Carbine rifle, M4 rifle with defaced serial number, Caliber .45 pistol model 1911 with defaced serial number, STI Caliber .45 pistol, Para Ordnance Caliber .45 pistol, Smith and Wesson Caliber 9mm pistol, Colt Caliber 45 Pistol, Caliber 45 Pistol with defaced Make and Serial Number, magazines and various ammunition in their control.

The cases were filed through an inquest proceeding on May 10, and were docketed under NPS Docket No. XIII-06-INQ-22E-053 and NPS Docket No. XIII-06-INQ-22E-052.

“The Caraga police relentlessly intensified operations against loose firearms and tightened the implementation of the COMELEC gun ban to prevent its utilization of illegal activities and disrupt the peaceful conduct of the national and local elections. If any similar case arises, the public is encouraged to report and coordinate with the nearest police station,” PBGen. Caramat said in a statement. (Police Regional Office-13/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

 

Wednesday, May 11, 2022

SurSur records 87.7%  Actual Voters of the 2022 NLEs, the highest turnout since 2016

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – This year’s national and local elections have recorded the highest turnout compared to the past two elections in 2016 and 2019 respectively.

The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Provincial Election Officer,  Atty April Joy Balano revealed that the 2022 National and Local Elections got the highest number of “Actual Voters” at 87.7%, the highest so far in Surigao del Sur.

Based on record, in 2016 there were  367,528 registered voters, 84.46% officially voted. While in 2019,  79.89%  casted their votes from the 413,593 registered voters. 


Currently, the province has a total of 440,070 registered voters, of which 260,806 are from the 1st district, composed of 13 municipalities, and one city, and 188,254 from the 2nd district, composed of four (4) municipalities and one city.

Meanwhile, the Provincial Board of Canvassers already proclaimed the new and re-elected officials in Surigao del Sur late afternoon of May 10, 2022, a day after the 2022 NLE. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)

 

Wednesday, May 11, 2022

DILG lauds Caraga stakeholders for making NLE 2022 peaceful, orderly

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

 

BUTUAN CITY – The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Caraga headed by regional director Lilibeth Famacion, lauded the different stakeholders for their contribution in making the national and local elections clean, orderly, and peaceful.

“Based on our assessment, the May 9, 2022 national and local elections was generally peaceful, orderly, as we haven’t observed or received report of any huge incident that took place during the conduct of the elections. We congratulate all the winning candidates and we look forward to your service to the Caraganons,” expressed Famacion. 

 

Dir. Famacion emphasized that the Department has always been part of the preparation for the national and local elections, including Barangay and SK elections, and constantly coordinates with the PNP and other concerned agencies for any election-related incidents. 

 

“During the May 9, 2022 national and local elections, we made sure that all the polling centers and precincts were strictly executing the health protocols and observed by all the electorates. Per instruction, those voter's with    temperature of 37.5 and above and/or with  COVID-19 symptoms were advised to proceed to the Isolation Room prepared by the school” she recalled.

 

The field offices of DILG have been providing the regional office with sufficient reports and updates during the national and local elections. “We do monitor any failure of election, including the concern on long queues, and defective vote-counting machines, among others. These will also form part of the evaluation that the DILG will make. And for now, we are still gathering data on the results of the May 9, 2022 national and local elections,” she added.

 

Famacion challenged all the newly-elected officials in the different cities, municipalities and provinces in Caraga region to ensure sustainability and stability in the daily operations of the local government units. “Rise up to the challenges of time. We have high hopes that you will continue to rehabilitate the economy considering that the region was rocked by the recent typhoon and still facing COVID-19 pandemic. People expect a lot from the services and programs that you could provide them,” she said. 

 

“Every after election, the DILG Caraga will conduct a series of training sessions for our newly-elected officials to capacitate them and make them more well-versed on transparency and good governance. The DILG is always ready to provide technical assistance and support. We hope that you all will unite for the benefit of the Caraganons, and always bear in mind that people’s agenda should always be put first,” she stressed. (JPG/PIA-Caraga) 

 

 

Tuesday, May 10, 2022

PNP-AgSur declares zero election-related incidents in the province

AGUSAN DEL SUR – The Agusan del Sur Police Provincial Office (ADSPPO), declared zero election-related incidents throughout the province from the start of the preparation and up to the end of the 2022 National and Local Elections. 

Police Colonel Jovito C Canlapan, Agusan del Sur Police Provincial Officer Director, emphasized that the utilization and the maximum deployment of police in each polling station in the province resulted to a peaceful and harmonious 2022 National and Local Elections in the area. 

 

Agusan del Sur Provincial Election Monitoring Action Center (PEMAC) reported that some vote-counting machines (VCMs) were faulty but were given swift  resolution by the responsible committees, and some municipalities experienced power interruptions.

 

PCol Canlapan, also recognized the efforts of the counterpart agencies as they helped the PNP in maintaining the peace, security and the sacrifices of the people of Agusan del Sur as they waited patiently  to cast their votes. 

 

"I commend every police officer in Agusan del Sur for realizing the province's peaceful and orderly 2022 National and Local Elections. Likewise, my grateful appreciation to the peace-loving AgSurnons for supporting our security forces in attaining a safe and secure election," Canlapan said. (PNP-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

 

Tuesday, May 10, 2022

Peaceful and orderly Election Day in Surigao Norte: PNP

BUTUAN CITY -- Following the successful arrests of 12 suspects on COMELEC Gun Ban and violation on Republic Act No. 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, prior the actual casting of votes, Election Day in the province of Surigao del Norte turned out to be generally peaceful and orderly.

The Office of the Provincial Operations Division recorded zero criminal activities in the entire province yesterday, citing that only minor incidents like Vote-Counting Machine (VCM) malfunction, other VCM technical problems, and long queue of voters in the polling precincts but these were immediately addressed.

PCOL Renato C. Mercado, provincial director of Surigao del Norte Police Provincial Office, emphasized that the neutralization of possible threats in the province have contributed to the overall success of the election.

“The people in Surigao del Norte province were able to exercise their right to vote due to our relentless and persistent efforts to provide a safe and secure environment. The 2022 National and Local Elections are over but rest assured that your police remain committed to serving and protecting the country and people,” said Director Mercado.

Mercado added that all documents and statements against the arrested suspects have been prepared and cases will be filed at the Prosecutor’s Office today. (Police Regional Office-13/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

 

Tuesday, May 10, 2022

The NTF-ELCAC Strongly Condemns the Agitation and False Propaganda Dissemination by the Disgruntled and Unruly Mob in Front of the COMELEC Office

Earlier today, a mob wearing black shirts, disturbed the peace in front of the COMELEC Office, shouting invectives and hurling insults at the COMELEC Officials.

Our policemen kept them at bay.

Clearly, the mob are supporters of a presidential candidate and several senatorial candidates allied with the said presidential aspirant who lost ng bonggang bongga during the May 9, 2022 elections.

This is an act of desperation on the part of the mob.

This is not an act of decent, rational, and well-meaning individuals.

It is our duty to inform this unruly mob to stay within the bounds of the law.

Any attempt or overt act on your part leading to the disruption of the peace and order and causing harm to the public will be dealt with accordingly by our law enforcement agencies.

Do not make this ruckus and meltdown of emotions due to your massive defeat in the elections become a threat to national security.

Do not force the government to use the full force of the law against you.

Do not also allow yourselves to be used and exploited by anti-government elements to advance their selfish agenda.

The people have spoken.

Respect that voice.

Otherwise, you will lose whatever is left of your self-respect and dignity by crying over something that has been decided already by the masses.

Cope with your defeat.

Respect the will of the Filipino people.

If you cannot bear to accept the election results and be part of nation building.

Do not be a part of the problem.

This is a time for unity and solidarity.

Go home. Pray. Plant trees. Wash the Dishes. Spend time with your Mom and Dad.

Do not waste your time and your future in the company of a bunch of misguided and disgruntled mob who cannot be decent and gracious enough to accept the will of the Filipino people.

Prosecutor 2 Flosemer Chris Gonzales

Acting Spokesperson for Legal Affairs, NTF-ELCAC