PIA News Service - Tuesday, February 7, 2012

CDA-Caraga urged coop owners to register

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 7 (PIA) -- Despite reports of closure of some cooperatives, Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) urged those who are planning to establish cooperatives to have it registered.

CDA-Caraga Regional Director Manuela Pelaez recently said closure of some cooperatives is due to mismanagement.

However, Pelaez said coop owners should register to CDA so that they can be assisted on how to improve the transactions undertaken by the cooperative.

“Bisan og aduna’y mga cooperatives nga na-dissolve niadtong miaging tuig tungod sa sayop nga pag-manage, mas maayo guihapon nga magpa-rehistro ang mga nanag-iya’g cooperative sa buhatan sa CDA aron mahatagan sila og giya ug estratehiya kung unsaon pag-palambo og pag-sustiner sa maong kooperatiba,” Pelaez said.

(Although there are cooperatives that were dissolved or closed last year because of mismanagement, it is still advised that owners of cooperatives must register in CDA so that they will be given guides and strategies how to develop and sustain their cooperative.)

Pelaez said if coop owners are registered, CDA will teach them strategies on how to run and sustain the cooperative.

The official added, to date, some 80 cooperatives in the region have already registered in CDA this year. (PIA-Caraga)

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BJMP to strengthen management strategy

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 7 (PIA) -- The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), Caraga is strengthening management strategy to improve their services.

BJMP-Caraga Assistant Regional Director Dario Campos said through this, they can find ways to increase its budget particularly in the improvement of facilities in the jails here in the region.

Specifically, ARD Campos said basic necessities of inmates such as foods and medicines are among that are given priority in allocating budget.

The official further said aside from improving their services to the inmates, they must also strengthen their manpower complement, through skills enhancement trainings and seminars.

Campos further admitted that in terms of security inside the jails, there is still a need for improvement. “With this, our personnel must undergo series of trainings for this matter,” Campos said. (PIA-Caraga)

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POPCOM urges youth to make responsible decisions

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 7 (PIA) -- Officials of Caraga Region’s Commission on Population (POPCOM) recently urged teenagers to decide responsibly on the matter of going into serious relationships.

Through their advocacy program dubbed “Pag-aaral ay para sa hinaharap, huwag ipagpalit sa sandaling sarap,” POPCOM-Caraga Information Officer Angie Antonio said.

Antonio said this program was conceptualized after it was observed that more families are experiencing poverty because of the untimely marriage brought about by early teenage pregnancy.

The official added that at present, going into serious relationships is not that easy if both or even one of the party is not yet ready to take any responsibilities.

Because of this, Antonio said some will resort to abortion that will put the health of the mother at risk.

She added building a family must be properly planned first, so that it will result to successful marriage. In this way, it is also assured that the health of all members of the family is properly taken cared of. (PIA-Caraga)

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TESDA to conduct massive trainings of tech-voc courses in Caraga schools

BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 7 (PIA) -- Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Caraga Region is set to conduct massive trainings of technical-vocational courses in public and private schools in Caraga Region this year.

TESDA-Caraga Regional Director Edwin Gatinao recently said in a radio interview that they are focusing on giving trainings to personnel and faculty members in schools in the region as this can be of help to students who are enrolled in tech-voc courses.

The region’s TESDA chief also said that aside from the massive training, they are strictly regulating and supervising the schools to pass in the competency level accreditation for which all TESDA-accredited schools are required to undergo.

Gatinao added through this, they are helping the schools to uplift quality education especially in TESDA-accredited technical vocational courses and students will pass in any competency examinations set by TESDA national office. (PIA-Caraga)

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FEATURE: Regional Police 13 fetes “21st PNP Foundation Day”

By Noel B. Najarro

BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 7 (PIA) -- The early morning rain and the threatening thick dark clouds did not dampen down the festive ambiance as the Police Regional Office 13 feted its “21st PNP Foundation Day” at Camp Rafael C. Rodriguez, Brgy. Libertad, this city.

The activities started with a Mass at 6:30 a.m. with PCInsp (Fr.) Marlou N. Labares the PRO 13 regional Chaplain as the celebrant. It was followed with foyer honors an hour later.

A wreath-laying rite at the monument of Col. Rafael C. Rodriguez and a 21-gun salute followed, led by Butuan City Mayor Ferdinand M. Amante, Jr. as the guest of honor and speaker of the occasion, assisted by PRO 13 Regional Director CSupt. Reynaldo S. Rafal. Attending the activity were the regional and provincial police dignitaries and personnel.

The peak of the celebration was held synchronously with the camp’s traditional Monday flag-raising ceremony highlighted by the recognition and pinning of medals to this year’s celebration awardees. Recipients of this year’s award were the150-strong composite disaster, rescue, retrieval and rehabilitation contingent of the “Task Force Tabang Iligan” which was sent by the police regional office here to the cities of Cagayan de Oro and Iligan City to assist the residents during the heights of fury and flash floods brought about by Typhoon Sendong on December 2011.

The awardees pursuant to General Orders No. 2, dated January 4, 2012 and No. 33 dated January 19, 2012 were pinned the “Medalya Ng Ugnayang Pampulisiya” and “Medalya Ng Pagtulong Sa Nasasalanta” which was awarded to the entire task force and to PSSupt. Eugenio B. Paguirigan, who led the contingent.

The awards, Rafal said, are in line with the CPNP’s policy and ten-point program, part of which is to award the deserving and to duly sanction the non-performers.

In his message, Mayor Amante congratulated the regional PNP and commended them for their accomplishments and for keeping the city as well as the region peaceful and orderly. He reminded the police force be true always to their vision statement.

He pointed out though that act of protecting life and property against bad elements is an obligation which must be shared by every citizen. He said that the LGU cannot do it by itself. The citizenry and the police must also do their share.

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2011 Surigao Sur TSP accomplishment report for release

By Greg Tataro, Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, 7 Feb. (PIA) -- The official release of 2011 accomplishment report of the Tanggapan ng Sangguniang Panlalawigan (TSP) of Surigao del Sur will depend on the schedule of the State of the Province Address (SOPA) of Governor Johnny Pimentel.

According to Reynilda Cosare, Provincial Secretary to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, the entire accomplishment report of the legislative body headed by Vice-Governor Manuel Alameda, Sr. is now ready.

In fact, during the TSP hosting of flag ceremony program recently, Cosare has already made a capsulized report of it.

Cosare bared, their office got an “above average” adjectival rating.

However, Governor Johnny Pimentel is toying with the idea of resetting the schedule of SOPA in time for the start of the fiscal year instead of the calendar year as normally practiced here. (Radyo Ng Bayan-Tandag/PIA Surigao del Sur)

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Surigao Sur gets Agri-Pinoy Award; P4M reward

By Greg Tataro, Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, 7 Feb. (PIA) -- Surigao del Sur is one of the top 10 provinces in the country that will receive P4,000,000 reward being an Agri-Pinoy Awardee on Friday, February 10, at Philippine International Convention Center (PICC).

According to Governor Johnny Pimentel, this was due to the “good performance” through the implementation of programs and projects that contributed to the increase in rice production in the province.

Pimentel told Capitol employees during the flag ceremony program on Monday, 40 provinces were nominated for the Agri-Pinoy Award but only 10 among the 16 finalists have made it — one of which is Surigao del Sur.

He stressed, he is set to leave along with Provincial Agriculturist Marcos Quico for said occasion of which Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala will give the award.

He clarified the financial reward will be allocated for projects that will enhance rice productivity such as dryer, multi-purpose pavement, sprayers, and the like.

Department of Agriculture (DA) Caraga Regional Director Edna Mabesa already congratulated the province for yet another feat. (Radyo Ng Bayan-Tandag/PIA Surigao del Sur)

PIA News Service - Monday, February 6, 2012

PESO-Butuan conducts 2-day jobs fair

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 6 (PIA) -- The Public Employment Service Office (PESO) of this city recently conducted two-day jobs fair in support to the jobs generation program of the national government.

Dubbed “Oportunidad Pantrabaho sa Butuan,” (Employment Opportunity for Butuan) the program is aimed to assist Butuanons in their quest to get employed in local and foreign companies.

In a radio interview, PESO-Butuan Manager Ronnie Azura said this move of the city government is in response to the increasing number of unemployment in the city especially that this coming March, another batch of college students are expected to graduate, “thus, adding to the unemployment rate of the country,” he added.

Azura further said the activity was a rare opportunity for big companies and agencies as they came here to recruit employees.

With this, Azura urged Butuanons to keep in touch with their office as more jobs fair activities are set to be conducted this year, in line with the jobs generation program of the local government here. (PIA-Caraga)

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Feature: More than 3,000 athletes to compete for 15th Caraga Reg'l. Athletic Meet

By David M. Suyao

AGUSAN DEL SUR, Feb. 6 (PIA) -- More than 3,000 athletes in colourful uniforms gathered yesterday at the D.O. Plaza Sports Complex for the opening of the 15th Caraga Regional Athletic Meet (CRAM) that will last for four days.

In spite of heavy rains the whole day, the weather condition did not reduce the eagerness of the delegation who proudly lined up in front of the main grand stand, bringing along their respective colourful banners and waving to the spectators that witnessed the opening of the biggest sports event in the entire Caraga Region.

“I am very proud and elated seeing all the delegation very eager to compete and display their skills in any sport events that they will compete. Looking at your faces even with the challenge of the rain, I can see that you display the greatness of sportsmanship, strong and determined to compete. Because of that, I can say that you are all winners by participating alone in this biggest sports event in the entire region. With this, I welcome you all in the province of Agusan del Sur and I pray, this event will end up successfully and with dignity,” Gov. Adolph Edward Plaza said when he delivered his welcome greetings.

Keynote speaker Atty. Roni Esguerra from the office of the Assistant Secretary of the Department of Education said, sports is the best way the schools can see development in a child. In sports, Esguerra said, a child can develop his mental, physical and emotional values that a person need in order to become a productive citizen of the country. And athletes are trained to have these values in order to win the game, and the challenge of life.

“In this event, the regional athletic meet, you were chosen as among the best from your respective municipalities and provinces, in order to compete here. As I see your faces, you are willing to give your best and to sacrifice and to bring honor to your respective places. The best players out of this event will represent your region to the National Athletic Meet in Lingayen and I know, you will bring back the colors of success,” Esguerra said.

As symbol that Agusan del Sur will be the official host for this year’s CRAM, Surigao del Norte provincial administrator representing Gov. Sol Matugas turned over the athletic banner to Gov. Plaza amidst the singing of the Caraga March by the Bayugan National Comprehensive High School, followed by the hoisting of the 2012 Caraga Regional Athletic Meet Banner. The hoisting of the delegation banners followed, then the entrance of the friendship torch and lighting of the urn by the star athletes of every delegation.

Ronn Sheina Asio, a medallist of the 2011 Palarong Pambansa from Agusan del Sur led the athletes’ oath of mateurism, while Bernard Abellana led the technical officials’ pledge.

While light rains showers on the athletes, DepEd Caraga Regional Office Officer-in-Charge Dr. Benigno formally declared the 15th CRAM open.

Making the opening ceremony merrier, students from the Agusan del Sur, clad in their colourful dresses and hats and other paraphernalia march to the ground for a mass demonstration. Then an exhibition of the drum and bugle from Bayugan National Comprehensive High School followed, while hats were thrown up in the skies by the athletes expressing their joy.

Their day to show and gauge their skills and ability began.

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3,063 delegates join in 15th Caraga Regional Athletic Meet

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO DEL NORTE, Feb. 6 (PIA) -- Around 3,063 delegates coming from nine divisions of Caraga Region participated in the 15th Caraga Regional Athletic Meet 2012 which opened yesterday, February 5, 2012 at the Patin-ay Grandstand, Agusan del Sur.

Surigao del Norte has 249 delegates, Surigao City - 238, Siargao - 183, Dinagat - 84, Bislig City - 250, Agusan del Norte - 391, Butuan City - 535, Surigao del Sur - 376, Agusan del Sur - 407, and officiating officials - 350.

There are 17 games for elementary level and eighteen games for high school level including arnis, basketball, volleyball, track and field, swimming, badminton, among others.

This year’s 15th Caraga Regional Meet is anchored on the theme, “Athletes in the new millennium; Building borderless partnership through sports.”

The region's sporting event will run until February 9, 2012. (PIA-Surigao del Norte)

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Development of 8-layer waterfalls in Butuan City barangay eyed

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 6 (PIA) -- The city tourism is eyeing to develop the eight-layer waterfalls in Barangay Pianing to be one of the prospect tourist attractions of this city.

In an interview with a local radio station here, Joy Rojo, city tourism council officer-in-charge said the crystal water of the waterfalls invite visitors to experience the coolness and beauty of nature.

Rojo added those who were able to visit and see for themselves the nature’s gift have appreciated its scenic beauty.

To date, the official said they are coordinating with officials of the said barangay to request the city government and give them the authority to develop this one-of-a-kind gift of nature and be one of the potential tourist destinations here.

“We have already coordinated with the barangay officials and inform them that they give authority to the city government to develop the area,” Rojo said in Cebuano dialect.

The official further said one way of developing the area into a tourist destination is to create Public-Private Partnership, which is also pushed by the present administration as one of its flagship program.

“We must have a public-private partnership so that the development of the said area will be made fast… through this, we are also supporting this program of the Aquino administration,” Rojo said.

With this, the city tourism council is hoping that the tourism industry of this city will slowly develop to uplift its economic condition. (PIA-Caraga)

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PAEF announces Fulbright scholarship grants for Graduate student program

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 6 (PIA) -- The Philippine-American Educational Foundation (PAEF) is calling all interested Filipino faculty members and professionals to apply for the scholarship of the 2013-2014 Fulbright graduate degree and non-degree study grants in the United States.

According to Commission on Higher Education (CHED)-Caraga website at www.chedcaraga.com, the program enables qualified Filipinos to pursue their graduate studies in their fields of interest in the United States and develop leaders who can contribute to promoting better understanding between the Philippines and the U.S.

Applications are accepted from faculty and staff of Philippine Universities and professionals from the private and government sectors.

Grants under the Philippine Student Program are for a maximum of one academic year for non-academic degree, one to two years for master’s and two years for doctoral degree studies.

The grant provides for round-trip international travel, monthly maintenance allowance, tuition and fees, book/supply allowance, as well as health and accident insurance.

Among the fields of study includes the Study of the United States. This focuses on the study of American culture, life, and society through such fields as government, education, arts and humanities, law, economics, literature, history, the multi-disciplinary field of American Studies or any other humanities social science field with significant study of the U.S. subject matter.

For the field of global issue, study include environment, human rights, civic education, governance and public administration, peace studies/conflict transformation, international relations and transnational issues, international economics, international business, international law, and information and communications technology (ICT).

Meanwhile for open grants, these are fields of study not covered by the first two fields categories with the exception of engineering, medicine, nursing, and other health-related disciplines, and applied sciences and mathematics.

Applicants must be Philippine citizenship and proficient in English. They must also have College degree with major in field of specialization for which they obtained excellent undergraduate record.

Also, applicants must have at least two years of professional work experience (after college) in their field of specialization.

Further, applicants for the degree programs must be not older than 40 years of age at the time of application. However, this age requirement is waived for non-degree study.

Furthermore, applicants must be in good health to pursue graduate work in the US, and more importantly, applicants must return to the Philippines immediately upon completion of study.

Non-degree applicants must meet the added requirements: a) Applicants for doctoral enrichment must be enrolled in a relevant study program in a Philippine university; b) Applicants for doctoral dissertation must show proof that materials required to pursue research are not available in the Philippines but are available in the United States.

Individuals holding dual citizenship, are permanent residents and/or are presently studying in the US are not eligible.

Needed requirements are as follows: 1) Official or certified transcript of records from all colleges/universities attended; 2) Certified true copy of diploma (not original); 3) Four letters of reference (forms are included with the application kit); 4) Completed seven (7)-page application form; and 5) NBI Clearance acquired in the past six (6) months.

Application period is from December 12, 2011 to March 23, 2012. Printed copy of completed applications must be received at the PAEF office on or before March 23, 2012. Grantees are expected to begin their studies in the U.S. in late August or early September of 2013.

For details, just log-on to http://www.fulbright.org.ph/ for which application forms can also be downloaded in the said website. (PIA-Caraga)

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PAGCOR, DepEd to strengthen sports dev’t in elementary division

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 6 (PIA) -- The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) and the Department of Education (DepEd) have expressed support to strengthen sports development in the elementary division.

PAGCOR chair Cristino Naguiat announced in his speech Friday during the ceremonial turnover of school armchairs here that they have been coordinating with DepEd to develop new generation of athletes that will bring honor to the country in the future.

According to Naguiat, plans have been ironed out between PAGCOR and DepEd through Sec. Armin Luistro on the activities to be conducted. He added this was already discussed with the Philippine Football Federation and they have agreed to conduct football festivals to ages 8 to 12 nationwide.

He said PAGCOR will take care of all the expenses that will be participated by elementary pupils in all the regions nationwide.

He added that PAGCOR’s priority project is focused on education and sports development of schoolchildren, which is also supported by President Benigno Aquino III as he believed that the future of the country is with the youths.

Further, Naguiat said this project is called “Batang Azkals” in honor of the Philippines’ national football team “Azkals”, who has been making name recently in the world football league.

With this he said PAGCOR, DepEd and other concerned agencies is strongly supporting this project of the national government to prepare the youth for the country’s future in world sports. (PIA-Caraga)

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2013 Budget Process Starts in February

By Ian G. Miculob

BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 6 (PIA) -- Agency regional offices (AROs), state colleges and universities (SUCs) and special development authorities will prepare anew their respective annual budget for FY 2013 after the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) released the National Budget Memorandum (NBM) 112 on December 29, 2011.

Under NBM 112, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) – Caraga as the secretariat of the Regional Development Council (RDC) will formulate the guidelines in budget preparation in consultation with the DBM regional office.

The budget allocated for strategic programs and projects of the AROs and SUCs in the region in 2013 must respond to and support the following: President Aquino’s five areas of priorities of the “Social Contract with the Filipino People,” Caraga Regional Development Plan 2011-2016, Millennium Development Goals, and other development frameworks.

Adopting the bottom-up budgeting approach, the AROs and SUCs are required to consult the civil society organizations and the poorest municipalities of the region in the preparation of the agency budget. The Human Development and Poverty Reduction Cluster led by the Department of Social Welfare and Development identified the 44 poorest municipalities in the region.

For the 2013 budget preparation, the agency can utilize its lump sum fund, augmenting the budget for every program or project. The agency sets the budget ceiling in every program and project and may utilize the lump sum fund to maximize the scarce resources while providing more to the needy beneficiaries in the countryside.

The RDC, which serves as the venue for budget consultation, is slated to review and deliberate the agency budgets in March during its Full Council Meeting prior to endorsement to the agency’s respective central offices. Sectoral meetings are scheduled to conduct the initial budget review on the following dates: February 21 (Social Development Committee Meeting), February 22 (Economic Development Committee Meeting), and February 24 (Development Administration Committee and Infrastructure Development Committee Meeting).

Last year, the RDC endorsed the P21.8 billion 2012 budget of 20 AROs and four SUCs for the different programs and projects in Caraga Region. The Aquino administration, on the other hand, through Congress, approved a 37.9 percent increase which amounted to PhP30.2 billion budget for Caraga in 2012. (NEDA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Sunday, February 5, 2012

Caraga DRRMC issues general flood advisory today

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 5 (PIA) -- With continuous rains pouring in all provinces of Caraga Region since Saturday, Feb. 4, the Regional Disaster and Risk Reduction Management Council (RDRRMC) issued flood advisory this afternoon.

In the last 24 hours, rainfall until 8am today in Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur measured 60.5 mm while rainfall in Butuan City measured 0.1mm while Surigao del Norte posted 8.44 mm of rainfall.

Moderate to occasionally heavy rains for the next 24 hours is expected.

The region’s disaster risk reduction council said waterways still likely to be affected like rivers and streams, as well as its tributaries in Surigao del Sur, Surigao del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Agusan del Norte and Dinagat Islands.

With this latest development, people living near the mountain slopes and those in low-lying areas of the above-mentioned river systems and the local DRRMCs concerned are advised to be alert for possible flashfloods and landslides, as RDRRMC emphasized that the government is on proactive action which is evacuation rather than rescue.

As of 10:30 am today, Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reported that a tail end of a cold front will bring mostly cloudy skies with scattered rain showers and thunderstorms in Visayas and Mindanao. It will be cloudy with widespread rains in Leyte, Bohol, Siquijor, Surigao provinces, Agusan provinces, Misamis Oriental and Bukidnon that may trigger flashfloods and landslides.

In a related development, the City DRRMC here reported that despite of the continuous rains, water level at Agusan River remains normal at 1.6 meters. For emergencies, the public is advised to call (085) 345-5940 or through mobile phone at 09298466767 or 09174109609. (PIA-Caraga)

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DepEd chief urges school officials to take care of donated armchairs

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 5 (PIA) -- Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Armin Luistro recently urged school officials and school children to take care of the donated armchairs under the PNoy Bayanihan Project.

Luistro said the production of these armchairs is a product of collaboration of government agencies, originally conceptualized by President Benigno S. Aquino III.

Because of this, Luistro said school officials should value these donations because DepEd is very fortunate to be beneficiaries of the project. He said of all the government agencies, they are the most who benefitted from this project.

“Pangalagaan natin ang biyaya ng Diyos na pinagpaguran ng tao para makarating sa inyo (We should take care God’s blessings which is considered fruit of labor of other people that is given to you),” Luistro said.

The DepEd chief also emphasized the PNoy Bayanihan project is not only of the Executive Branch. He said local government units also played important role in the realization of this project.

“Ang proyektong ito ay hindi lamang proyekto ng executive branch. Kasama po namin talaga dito ang ating local government units. Kaya po masayang-masaya kaming pumunta rito para makasama at maka-ugnayan ang mga lokal na opisyal dito. (This project is not only made by the executive branch. We are also supported by our local government units. That is why we are so happy to be here and discuss this matter with the local officials in the region),” Luistro said.

Further, the education secretary stressed that there is a need for the convergence of government agencies. He also underscored the important role of the legislative department in crafting laws that will benefit the majority.

He explained the joint efforts of the legislative and the executive departments will lead to the realization of projects, towards development of the country.

Meanwhile, Luistro thanked the legislative and executive departments for coming up with this project that will help in the transformation of development in the education sector. (PIA-Caraga)

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DepEd-Caraga chief thankful to stakeholders of PNoy Bayanihan project

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 5 (PIA) – Department of Education (DepEd)-Caraga Regional Director Dr. Gloria Benigno on Friday thanked all stakeholders of the PNoy Bayanihan project.

In her parting statement during the ceremonial turnover of armchairs to schools in Caraga Region, Benigno said the collaborative efforts of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) is well appreciated especially for the part of DepEd.
Benigno added the project was also realized through the coordination of the local government units of Caraga Region. With this, she also expressed her gratitude to the local chief executives.

Although the armchairs came from illegally cut logs, DepEd, she is hoping that there will be no more such illegal activities to be conducted in the region as this will destroy the environment.

Benigno also accepted the request of DepEd Sec. Armin Luistro when the latter urged school officials to take care of the donated armchairs.

The DepEd chief of the region likewise vowed to value the donations, which the region has received in an effort to help provide quality education to school children through improved school infrastructures.

President Benigno S. Aquino III conceptualized the PNoy Bayanihan project through the implementing agencies composed of the DENR, PAGCOR, TESDA and the DepEd being the program beneficiary. (PIA-Caraga)

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PAGCOR chief vows to support PNoy Bayanihan project

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 5 (PIA) -- Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) Chairman Cristino Naguiat, Jr. recently said the country’s amusement and gaming company would continue to support the PNoy Bayanihan project, as it aimed to promote human development.

During Friday’s ceremonial turnover of 6,096 armchairs to some schools here and in the provinces of Agusan del Norte and Agusan del Sur, Chairman Naguiat said the PNoy Bayanihan project would only be realized if government and the people will go hand in hand.

Underscoring the importance of unity, Naguiat said with the name of the project itself, “Bayanihan” means helping each other towards a common goal.

Naguiat added a project in the country would never be realized without the support of all stakeholders and the people who will also benefit the end output.

With this, Naguiat urged the people to go hand in hand with the government in an effort to uphold transparency and good governance. He said if there’s transparency and good governance, this country will surely move forward.

Chairman Naguiat also said PAGCOR has initially allocated some P100 million for the PNoy Bayanihan project, for the conversion of illegal logs to armchairs.

The official added this is just one of the PAGCOR’s projects for education and more projects will still be realized. He added they were able to allocate, together with the Department of Education (DepEd), a budget amounting to some P1 billion for the construction of school buildings.

With this, Naguiat said the Aquino government was able to allocate these huge budgets in a right way. “Wala pong corruption kaya nakakapagbuo tayo ng proyekto na ganito kalaki (No corruption in all these transactions that is why we were able to come-up with such big projects),” Naguiat said.

Naguiat added that never in the history of PAGCOR that they were able to do such big project like the P100-billion school building projects.

Chairman Naguiat, together with DepEd Secretary Armin Luistro, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority Sec. Emmanuel Joel Villanueva, and Department of Environment and Natural Resources Assistant Sec. Michelle Angelica Go graced the activity held at the covered court of Butuan Central Elementary School. (PIA-Caraga)

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DILG urges AgNor province to pass anti-piracy measures

AGUSAN DEL NORTE, Feb. 5 (PIA) – All component municipalities and cities in the province are enjoined to pass an ordinance curtailing the sale, transfer, distribution, manufacture and/or production of pirated or fake goods, articles and services per Memorandum Circular No. 2011-89 issued last June 21, 2011 from the Office of the Secretary, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Quezon City.

DILG has issued the same circular way back in 2003 urging LGUs to enforce intellectual rights in support to the PNP, NBI and the Video Regulatory Board but there were only 12 LGUs as of 2008 who passed an ordinance on it.

The new circular seeks to reiterate to all local legislative bodies in the country to adopt an ordinance to curtail, if not eradicate, these fake goods and services to protect the intellectual rights of scientists, inventors and other gifted citizens.

Through Sanggunian Resolution No. 317-2011 authored by BM James T. Reserva, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Agusan del Norte approved the said resolution. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

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115 TESDA trainees in Agusan del Sur to receive Certificate of Competency

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, Agusan del Norte, Feb. 5 (PIA) -- The 115 trainees who made the armchairs that were distributed to schools in Caraga Region on Friday under the PNoy Bayanihan Project will each receive certificate of competency.

Secretary Emmanuel Joel Villanueva of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) announced on Friday during the ceremonial turnover of some 6,096 armchairs to ten schools in Caraga Region held at the covered court of Butuan Central Elementary School (BCES) here.

Villanueva said he was given the opportunity to meet the 115 trainees when he visited the manufacturing site at the Agusan del Sur School of Arts and Trades (ASSAT) on Thursday.

The official further announced that said trainees would receive certificate of competency on furniture-making and operating furniture machines.

Villanueva also said the trainees will also receive livelihood component courtesy of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) and training fee will be given to them.

“Sa halip na nakatambay lang sila, nakapag-aaral na sila, kumikita pa po sila. (Instead of being bystanders, they will learn and earn at the same time),” Villanueva said.

Furthermore, Villanueva said the end product of the project is the comfort given to the school children as they continue to learn and be the future leaders of the country.

Villanueva also acknowledged those in attendance, saying their presence means that they have strongly supported the thrusts, programs and projects of the national government. (PIA-Caraga)

PIA News Service - Saturday, February 4, 2012

Agusan del Norte PDRRMC enhances its 5-year plan to ensure 0-casualty during calamities

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 4 (PIA) -- Stakeholders of the Agusan del Norte Provincial Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) chaired by Governor Erlpe John M. Amante convened Friday to enhance further its 5-year DRRM Plan from 2012 to 2017.

On behalf of Gov. Amante, Provincial Administrator Ms. Percianita Racho presided the meeting and solicited further suggestions from the members to come up with a unified and organized DRRM plan for the province.

Provincial Planning and Development Officer Erma R. Suyo bared that PDRRMC’s goal for this plan is to institutionalize and implement measures and mechanisms to effectively reduce the risks and impacts of disasters and climate change for sustainable growth, poverty reduction and environmental balance.

“We visualize our province to be a disaster prepared and responsive with communities that are resilient to climate change,” Suyo expressed.

Suyo further said that the PDRRMC has established DRM teams at all levels – the barangay, city/municipal LGus. These teams are continuously being trained on planning, program implementation, monitoring, early warning and alert systems.

Also, Provincial Administrator Racho also stressed that simulation drills and exercises for safe evacuation due to fire, flooding, typhoon, earthquake and storm surge should be conducted periodically by the Agusan del Norte Emergency Response Team. Technical assistance from the Office of Civil Defense, PAGASA, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), Department of Health (DOH) and other entities implementing disaster risk reduction initiatives shall be sought.

It was also learned that monitoring and evaluation will start once the implementation of the DRRMP is in full swing. Monitoring and evaluation will be instrumental in identifying problems, impacts and benefits, as well as in ensuring the effectivity and sustainability of the plan.

With this 5-year plan, PDRRMC hoped to achieve its goals and reduce risks in times of disasters. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

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TESDA chief optimistic Caraga Region first to address “zero backlog” in armchair production

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 4 (PIA) -- Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Director-General Emmanuel Joel Villanueva on Friday said he is optimistic that Caraga Region will be the first region to address zero backlog in armchairs production under the PNoy Bayanihan Project.

Speaking before the officials and members of the Caraga Region’s Department of Education, TESDA, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), including some of the local officials of Butuan City, Agusan del Norte and Agusan del Sur during the school armchair turn-over ceremony at the covered court of Butuan Central Elementary School (BCES) here, Sec. Villanueva emphasized that with the reports he received from authorities, Caraga Region will be the first region to address the backlog by April or May this year.

“We will be able to address the problem of backlogs of Caraga Region by April or May but I am glad to announce to all Caraganons that based on the report from concerned agencies here, I am sure that Caraga Region will be the first region to address the backlogs of armchair production,” Villanueva said.

The TESDA chief stressed through this project, schoolchildren will be given the opportunity to experience convenience while they are studying. In this way, he said this can really contribute to the learning development of the pupils.

In a separate interview, Villanueva said the project will last for a year, depending on the supply of wood to be provided by DENR for Caraga Region.

Villanueva said the PNoy Bayanihan Project does not only promote anti-corruption as highlighted in the Philippine Development Plan of the Aquino Administration. He said this is also one of the strategies of the national government towards strengthening human development.

He said providing schools with necessary infrastructures means preparing for the future as these schoolchildren will be the future leaders of the country. (PIA-Caraga)

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10 schools in Caraga region receive armchairs through PNoy Bayanihan project

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 4 (PIA) -- A total of 10 schools in Caraga Region have received armchairs through the PNoy Bayanihan project.

Dept. of Education (DepEd) Sec. Armin Luistro, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Director-General Emmanuel Joel Villanueva, Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) Chairman Cristino Naguiat Jr., and Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Asec. Michelle Go personally presented the 6,096 armchairs to DepEd-Caraga Regional Director Dr. Gloria
Benigno in a ceremony held Friday at the Butuan Central Elementary School (BCES) covered court.

Witnessed by local officials of the province of Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, and Butuan City, Agusan National High School (ANHS) received 2,000 armchairs that were personally handed-over to school officials at the ANHS covered court, which is a walking distance from BCES.

According to Braulio Dela Peña, Jr. of TESDA-Caraga, other school-beneficiaries of the program include the BCES with 1,900 armchairs; Butuan City School of Arts and Trades (BCSAT) with 800 chairs; Libertad National High School – 186; La Trinidad Elem. School – 450; Villa Kanangga Elem. School – 260; San Vicente Elem. School – 350; Kinamlutan Elem. School – 50 and; Ong Yiu Central Elem. School – 100.

Also, Agusan del Sur National High School received some 300 armchairs, and the province’s First District Congresswoman Tina Plaza was present during the turn-over ceremony.

In her short message, she acknowledged President Benigno S. Aquino II for coming up with this noble project that will benefit the schoolchildren. She also thanked the country’s chief executive for choosing Caraga Region as one of the beneficiaries of the PNoy Bayanihan project.

Further, Agusan del Norte First District Congressman Jose Aquino II is grateful to the Aquino administration for the project, making his constituents the major beneficiaries. Out of 10schools in Caraga, eight are from this city, one from Agusan del Norte, and another one for Agusan del Sur.

Meanwhile, PAGCOR Chairman Cristino Naguiat, Jr. vowed to support projects of the Aquino administration which aimed to promote human development. Among those are the education infrastructures and sports development of the youths. (PIA-Caraga)

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Caraga Region officials grateful to PNoy Bayanihan Project

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 4 (PIA) -- Following the ceremonial turnover of school armchairs Friday morning at the covered court of Butuan Central Elementary School (BCES) here, local officials of the provinces of Agusan del Norte and Sur, as well from this city are thankful to the Aquino administration for coming up with the “PNoy Bayanihan Project."

In their short messages during the ceremony proper, Agusan del Norte Governor Erlpe John Amante, Agusan del Sur First District Congresswoman Tina Plaza, and Butuan City-Las Nieves Congressman Jose Aquino III are one in expressing thanks and gratitude to the national government for the realization of the project.
According to Plaza, she is thankful for the opportunity given to the schoolchildren in Caraga Region. She added schoolchildren must be properly nurtured so that they can get quality education.

“...And one way of doing this is to make sure that they will be comfortable as they listen to their teachers,” Plaza said.

Plaza further said the armchairs are gifts from the country’s chief executive and that she urged the school recipients through the respective school administrations to take care of these gifts because these are fruits of labor from the national government.

Also, Aquino said he is happy to know that government agencies have joined hands in providing help to schools in Caraga Region.

The good congressman also said BCES is close to his heart because his mother and three brothers have graduated in this school. He also said the area where BCES was established is donated by his father, the late Gov. Jose Aquino of the then province of Agusan. “Whoever will be in the government position, my heart will still be with Butuan Central as the memories of my family will always linger in this school,” Aquino said.

Meanwhile, Agusan del Norte Gov. Erlpe John Amante said this is the first time in his three-term as provincial governor of the province that dignitaries have visited the city of Butuan.

He added this shows how serious the present administration in implementing the thrusts and programs for the benefit of the Filipino populace.

The official also stressed he is thankful that a very unfortunate activity resulted into something good and will be perpetually used by schoolchildren in schools in Caraga Region.

However, Gov. Amante said he is not hoping that more chairs will be donated “because if this will be the case, this means more illegal logging activities are expected to happen”.

According to TESDA-Caraga, 6,096 chairs are distributed to eight schools in Butuan City, one school in Agusan del Norte, and another school in Agusan del Sur.

The armchairs is under the PNoy Bayanihan Project, funded by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), and was made possible through the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Dept. of Education (DepEd).

The turnover ceremony on Friday was graced by DepEd Sec. Armin Luistro, TESDA Director-General Emmanuel Joel Villanueva, PAGCOR Chairman Cristino Naguiat, Jr. and DENR Asec. Michelle Angelica Go who is also a Butuanon. (PIA-Caraga)

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PNoy Bayanihan, not only an anti-corruption campaign of the present admin, also a campaign for education – TESDA chief

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 4 (PIA) -- Emmanuel Joel Villanueva of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) on Friday pointed out that the PNoy Bayanihan project is not only anti-corruption campaign of the Aquino administration but also a campaign for education.

According to Villanueva, the project was conceptualized after Sec. Ramon Paje of the Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) presented a report during a cabinet meeting in Malacañan Palace on the seized illegal logs in the country.

He said Paje reported that the biggest volume of illegally-cut logs came from Caraga Region. Because of this incident, President Benigno S. Aquino III called on the DENR, TESDA, Dept. of Education (DepEd), and the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) to do something about it.

Villanueva said it was the President’s idea to make the illegally-cut logs useful by converting it to armchairs. With this, the President directed them, especially DepEd to identify areas where school armchairs are needed.

The TESDA chief said it is good to note that the illegally-cut logs are already transformed into lumbers and now into armchairs which will be used by schoolchildren.

To date, Sec. Villanueva said 6,096 armchairs will be distributed to some schools in Caraga Region. He added the DepEd has identified these school-beneficiaries for the initial distribution.

Villanueva further said other schools in the region will benefit on the next set of armchairs for which he is optimistic, it will be distributed within this year.

Believing that the region will be the first in the country to address armchair backlogs, he said Caraga Region will be given priority in armchairs distribution.

Villanueva was here in the city to grace the turnover of school armchairs to DepEd-Caraga regional director Dr. Gloria Benigno for use in schools in the city, Agusan del Norte, and Agusan del Sur. (PIA-Caraga)

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Agusan del Norte New Capitol Building good to go

AGUSAN DEL NORTE, Feb. 4 (PIA) -- After the Provincial Government of Agusan del Norte attain the reclassification of their land conducted by the Dept. of Agriculture (DA) in Brgy. Sanghan, Cabadbaran City where the new Capitol building will be constructed, the land conversion by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) will soon follow.

DAR promised that they will fast track the land conversion of the said land from an agricultural to an industrial land in month’s time for the construction to start. March is set to be the target month for the construction of the said building.

According to Gov. Amante, the budget for the construction is ready. It will feature a modern design with lots of new things to look forward to.

The Governor added that there will be an employees village at the back of the new building intended for the provincial employees.

For the old capitol building located in Capitol Compound, Butuan City, there are options on what to make out of it. It could be turned into a school, heritage hotel or a government office.

But according to Gov. Amante, the Guingona’s, who donated the lot to the province, expressed their desire and prefer to see the old capitol building be turned into a good decent school instead of the other options to maintain its perpetual relevance and contribute to the improvement of education in the whole region. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

PIA News Dispatch - Friday, February 3, 2012

Meat inspection agency monitors Caraga entry and exit points

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 3 (PIA) -- To prevent possible entry of “double dead” meats, officials and personnel of the National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS) is closely monitoring all entrance and exit points in Caraga Region.

NMIS-Caraga Regional Director Desiderio Julaton directed all NMIS personnel to strengthen their monitoring so that such illegal transporting of “double dead” meats will not happen in the province.

Julaton said the situation is not alarming in Caraga considering that the region does not have big piggeries that may be a source of these “double dead” meats that might be sold in markets.

Through the monitoring, Julaton said, health of the consumers will be protected.

NMIS also reminded the public to be cautious in buying meat in the market as incidence of selling “double-dead” meats are already noted in some parts of Luzon.

NMIS Executive Director Atty. Jane Bacayo said it is safer to buy meat products and other processed foods in malls and groceries as they have passed the quality control requirements of NMIS.

However, report said that the NMIS chief reiterated that if buying in public markets cannot be avoided, Bacayo suggested it is necessary to ask dealers first for the NMIS certificates on their meat products.

This move of the NMIS is part of the good governance as promoted by the Aquino Administration that is highlighted in the Philippine Development Plan for 2011-2016. (PIA-Caraga)

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DepEd-Butuan determined to defend Caraga Regional Athletic Meet championship title

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 3 (PIA) -- Officials and coaches of the Department of Education (DepEd) – Butuan City Division is determined to defend the championship title they won last year in the Caraga Regional Athletic Meet, as the region’s annual athletic event will take place on Feb. 5 to 9 at Patin-ay Grandstand in Agusan del Sur.

In an interview with a local radio station here, DepEd Butuan Division Assistant Athletic Manager Renato Latorre said athletes of this city are in good shape and has prepared for this event, showing their determination to grab the championship title for the second time around.

Latorre said among the sports contested during the five-day athletic meet include basketball, volleyball, track and field, swimming, among others.

The official added they are 80 percent confident that the city’s athletic delegation can defend the championship title.

Latorre further acknowledged the city government headed by Mayor Ferdinand Amante, Jr. for giving support to the entire delegation. He said the city government spent for the expenses of the athletes’ uniforms, medicines and food through the local school board fund.

“With this, the city government has allocated enough budgets for the city’s delegation as it vied for another championship crown this year and Mayor Amante is hoping that the city’s athletes will again show their supremacy and bring home the beacon for the city,” Latorre said.

Meanwhile, archrival Agusan del Norte Athletic Delegation is also determined to grab the championship title from the defending champion Butuan City, as the team’s athletes have already undergone rigid trainings early last month.

It can be noted that the Agusan del Norte Athletic Delegation has been dominating the overall championship titles since the start of the Caraga Regional Athletic Meet way back in 1997, two years after Republic Act 7901 was approved by former President Fidel V. Ramos, creating the Caraga Administrative Region on Feb. 23, 1995.

Because of this, more fun, excitement and action is expected to take place in this year’s major sporting event in the region to be held in the region’s land of golden opportunities, Agusan del Sur.

This year’s 15th Caraga Regional Meet is anchored on the theme, “Athletes in the new millennium; Building borderless partnership through sports.” (PIA-Caraga)

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SSS-Butuan to implement another loan condonation program to members

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 3 (PIA) -- The Social Security System (SSS) here is set to implement another loan condonation program to all its members who have current loans and yet, were not able to pay their obligations.

In an interview with SSS-Butuan Assistant Manager Ricky Habal, the program is intended for members who have delinquent payments of their loans.

The official added the program allows members to pay their obligations for the period of six months, to start on Apr. 2 until Sept. 2012.

According to Habal, the program is offered to give chance to SSS members who have delinquent short-term member loans. These may be either the salary, calamity, emergency, educational, study-now-pay-later plan, vocational and technical student, Y2K, stock investment and privatization fund (SI/PF) or the Members’ Assistance for the Development of Entrepreneurship (MADE).

A 100 percent of penalty condoned will be granted to members whose employers deducted loan amortizations but did not remit to SSS. This is also open to beneficiaries of deceased member-borrowers with unpaid loans who will file for death claim within the availment period. However, said members must have paid at least three monthly contributions within six months prior to the month of filing the application. This can be availed from Apr. 2, 2012 to March 31, 2013.

Meanwhile, a 90 percent of penalty condoned will be granted to members who have paid at least three monthly loan amortizations, provided, if members will give full payment and 80 percent for those who will only pay installment, and is open from Apr. 2, to Sept. 30, 2012.

Further, members who will file for retirement or total disability claim within the availment period shall be granted 50 percent of penalty condoned, and availment period is also from Apr. 2 to Sept. 30, 2012.

To avail of the program, SSS said the borrower shall accomplish and submit the application form to the nearest SSS Branch.

Upon approval of the application, the borrower shall pay either to SSS Branch with Tellering facilities or SSS accredited bank and submit proof/s of payment SSS Form ML-1 or SS Form ML-1 with Special Bank Receipt (SBR), together with the application to the nearest SSS Branch.

With these developments, the SSS official urged SSS members to avail of the condonation program so that other members can also use the money when they will apply for any loans. He added that with such availment, loan records of the member-borrowers will be updated.

For details and additional information, visit the SSS website at www.sss.gov.ph where application forms can also be downloaded. (PIA-Caraga)

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DSWD urges LGUs to create PWD offices

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 3 (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-Caraga urged all local chief executives in the region to establish a Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO) in their respective Local Government Units (LGUs).

According to Golda Pocon of the Technical Services Division, only few LGUs in the region have adhered to the provisions set in Magna Carta for persons with disabilities (PWDs).

The official said the social welfare department has been conducting dialogues with the local chief executives regarding the provisions but unfortunately, only few have followed.

Pocon also said the LGUs should designate their respective focal persons who will lead in the implementation of programs and projects set for PWDs.

She added these focal persons will carry out activities intended for PWDs, and in this way, it is assured that these plans will be implemented and supported by the LGUs.

As per Memorandum Circular No. 2010-103 of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), all provincial governors, city and municipal mayors, and DILG Directors are directed to establish PDAO in every province, city and municipality pursuant to Republic Act No. 10070, an act establishing an institutional mechanism to ensure the implementation of programs and services for PWDs in every province, city and municipality, amending Section 40 of RA 7277, otherwise known as the “Magna Carta for Disabled Persons.”

Also, said memorandum stated that a PWD Affairs Officer or focal person shall be designated by the local chief executive, with the qualifications such as a Filipino citizen and resident of the city or municipality for at least one year, a registered voter of the concerned city or municipality, someone able to read and write and must be a bonafide member of a duly accredited PWD organization with a track record of at least three years.

The head of PDAO or focal person shall have a term of office of three years and shall be reappointed for another term based on the Sanggunian selection process. In case of death, the remaining term shall be served by the new appointee who has undergone the selection process.

The DILG memorandum circular also emphasized that the PDAO or focal person shall be lodged under the office of the local chief executive (LCE) and as such, they shall exercise supervision over the PDAO operations and activities. (PIA-Caraga)

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Agusan del Sur tops rice production in 2011

By Nora L. Molde

BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 3 (PIA) -- The Bureau of Agricultural Statistics (BAS) Caraga region has identified Agusan del Sur as top rice-producing province in the region for 2011.

Based on BAS records, the province continue to top in producing rice followed by the provinces of Surigao del Sur then the provinces of Agusan del Norte and Surigao del Norte.

Although the production of rice has decreased in 2011 because of the different calamities that hit the region, BAS regional agricultural statistics officer Melchor Bautista said the production of rice and rubber are still leading in the region.

Meanwhile, in an interview with a local station here, Bautista said their office is now preparing for the wet summer after the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration warned the public that rainy season would be experienced in the country until the month of August this year.

Bautista further said that they are now studying the effects of the wet summer, especially that it might greatly affect rice production. (PIA-Caraga)

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DSWD-Caraga campaigns for responsible adoption

By Robert E. Roperos

BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 3 (PIA) -- In time with the celebration of Adoption Consciousness Week, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Caraga Region, is campaigning for a responsible adoption of children.

According to Aldie May Andoy of DSWD-Caraga, this year’s celebration is anchored on the theme “Isulong Legal na Pag-aampon (Campaign for Legal Adoption).”

Andoy added that the weeklong activity will commence with a thanksgiving mass at the Saint Joseph Cathedral, to be followed by a motorcade around the city to instill awareness to public on the importance of responsible adoption.

Adoption desks will also be installed in some government offices such as the National Statistics Office (NSO) and in the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and in selected establishments in the city during the entire celebration period.

Andoy said more applicants have submitted their application in their quest to adopt children.

The DSWD said there are two ways of adopting a child. First is through domestic adoption and second by inter-country application, where accordingly, topping the list of the countries signifying their intention to adopt a Filipino child is the United States of America.

However, according to DSWD, for inter-country applicants, they will undergo tedious process to ensure that the child who will be adopted will be safe and secured, following reports of the rising number of children who are victims with illegal trafficking.

With this, the DSWD said these applicants must undergo series of physical and psychological evaluation.

As per DSWD’s website, Proclamation No. 72 dated Feb. 3, 1999, mandates the observance of Adoption Consciousness Day on the first Saturday of February. However, to enable a longer time to advocate issues on adoption, the National Organizing Committee chaired by the DSWD agreed to celebrate it from Feb. 5 to 11. (PIA-Caraga)

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Top of FormSeries of energization activities set in Surigao del Sur

By Greg Tataro, Jr.

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur, Feb. 3 (PIA) -- A series of ceremonial energization activities is set to happen in six far-flung areas in Surigao del Sur.

According to Agi Jaluag, Information Officer of Surigao del Sur Electric Cooperative II (SURSECO II), the energization program which covers a purok and five sitios started yesterday, Feb. 2 until Saturday, Feb. 4.

Jaluag said these include Sitio Palompon, Barangay Mahaba, Marihatag; Purok 5, Barangay Siagao, San Miguel; Sitio Awasan and Sitio Pag-Antan in Barangay Jubang, Tago; Sitio Bayabas, Barangay San Isidro, Tandag City; and Sitio Bayabay, Barangay Bugsukan, Cantilan.

Jaluag stressed that said energization program is part of the rural electrification program under President Benigno Aquino III’s administration.

Meanwhile, aside from the respective municipal and city officials, Governor Johnny Pimentel and First District Congressman Philip Pichay are also expected to grace the series of occasions. (Radyo Ng Bayan-Tandag/PIA Surigao del Sur)

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Agusan del Sur receives national award as top 10 rice-performing provinces

By Jasmin J. Reyes

AGUSAN DEL SUR, Feb. 3 (PIA) - The provincial government of Agusan del Sur has made it among the top 10 provinces in the Philippines which has laudable performance in rice production since 2008. This was confirmed after the recently-concluded national evaluation on Jan. 26 for the Agri-Pinoy Rice Achievers Awards.

The Agri-Pinoy Rice Achievers Awards program is launched by the Philippine Government through the Department of Agriculture in line with the vision of achieving Rice Self-Sufficiency in 2013. This would identify and give recognition to the highly performing provinces, cities, municipalities and agricultural extension workers in the production of rice. This is also to sustain awareness, encourage full participation, support and commitment to the program.

The sustained implementation of the BUGAS program or the Boosted Utilization of Grains in Agusan del Sur under the leadership of Governor Adolph Edward G. Plaza and with the all-out support of the Municipal Local Government Units, rice production in the province is very promising and continue to provide income opportunities to rice farmers.

Also, included in the recognition is the municipality of Trento who made it among the top 50 for municipality/city category, and Alfred A. Gimang of Trento who is one among the top 500 for Agricultural Extension Worker category.

Under the BUGAS program, technology and support programs to include provision of production inputs like seeds and fertilizers, small scale irrigation and pre- and post-harvest facilities, farm-to-market roads, providing more options through research studies and trainings on appropriate technology, increased use of organic fertilizers and marketing assistance to farmers are strengthened.

For the last decade, Agusan del Sur is self-sufficient in rice. In 2011, rice production posted 333,160 metric tons bringing an average production of 3.5 metric tons per hectare. Based on the 124 kilograms per capita consumption or a total of 73,387 metric ton-requirement (for projected population in 2011), a surplus of 139,835 metric tons of clean rice is attained. (PIA-Agusan del Sur)

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DA reclassifies Agusan del Norte’s new capitol building lot

By Brian Jay Ceballos

AGUSAN DEL NORTE, Feb. 3 (PIA) -- A parcel of land owned by the provincial government of Agusan del Norte has now been classified as a commercial and industrial land, different from its original classification as an agricultural land.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) certified the application of the provincial government of Agusan del Norte for the reclassification of its land in Barangay Sanghan, Cabadbaran City where a new provincial building will be constructed.

A certificate of eligibility was issued to Agusan del Norte. DA officials stressed that the certification is a not a Conversion Order, that only the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) can issue such order.

The reclassification or conversion of the land from agricultural to a commercial and industrial land is necessary in order for the construction of the new building be started.

Every detail and necessary requirement of the planned transfer is already accomplished by the province. The conversion order from DAR is the only thing lacking, but the order is expected to come out after a then the construction may start. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

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Agusan del Norte holds search for best barangay

AGUSAN DEL NORTE, Feb. 3 (PIA) -- In line with the 6-point agenda of Governor Erlpe John M. Amante to realize and promote the vision of the provincial government onwards a Progressive, Independent and Noteworthy Governance (PING) among the barangays, the Provincial Assessment Team (PAT) recently meet to formalized the guidelines and criteria for this year’s search for the Best Barangay 2012.

The province, with 167 barangays out of the 10 municipalities and a city, created the Provincial Assessment Team (PAT) which comprise of provincial employees as the only recognized body to conduct the assessment and evaluation of the barangays that will join.

The provincial search has two categories such as urban and rural. Each of the municipality or city shall select and nominate one barangay for each category as their official entry which will compete for the first, second and third places.

The criteria for this year’s search would be 30 percent for the executive, administrative and legislative function, 40 percent for the environmental protection and clean and green, 15 percent for the resourcefulness and initiative in programs, project, activities (PPA) implementation and 15 percent for the community mobilization.

Winners will be proclaimed and awarded in the upcoming foundation anniversary of Agusan del Norte in June 2012. (LGU-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

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Cebuano News: TESDA mianunsyo sa mga programa aron madugangan ang panginabuhian ug kahanas sa mga Filipino

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Peb. 3 (PIA) – Subay sa direktiba ni Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III nga palapdan ang pagpaabot sa serbisyo ngadto sa katawhan, ang Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) mianunsyo nga kini mag-implementar sa pito ka bag-ong mga programa alang sa tuig 2012 aron mapalapdan ang panginabuhian ug kahanas sa mga Filipino.

Sa sulat alang ngadto sa Pangulo niadtong Enero 30, si TESDA Director General Emmanuel Joel Villanueva miingon kini nga pito ka mga programa kabahin sa parte sa bag-ong plataporma sa pagdumala sa TESDA nga gitawag og REAL DEAL TESD nga gitinguha aron “answer the what, where, when, who and how the agency will place itself to benefit the greater part of the community it serves.”

Ang REAL DEAL TESD (Reach the grassroots, Empower the reached. Assure quality training and lifelong education Development. Enable, and Actively-engage Labor force members in job opportunities thru employability and livelihood skills) maoy kinatibuk-ang tinguha sa ahensya aron mapalihok ang tibuok nga pundo sa TESDA ngadto subay sa panawagan sa Pangulo alang sa “Landas na Matuwid.”

Aron makab-ot kini, ang TESDA mopokus sa ilang pundo ngadto sa pagdumala sa technical and vocational education and training (TVET) dinhi sa Pilipinas uban ang giya sa mga prinsipyo niini.

Sa pito ka mga programa, lima ang training ug retooling nga mga programa samtang ang lain pang duha mao ang partnership with government and a private company alang sa sertipikasyon sa pampublikong mga drayber ug pagpagahom sa mga kababayen-an.

Kini nga mga programa naglakip sa : 1) IT-BPO Talent Investment Program pagbansay sa 65,000 ka mga eskolar aron mokwalipikar alang sa mga trabaho sa business process outsourcing industry; 2) TESDA-SEIPI (Semi-conductor and Electronics Industry of the Philippines) Pakigtambayayong alang sa Semi-Conductor Electronics Industry pagbansay sa mokapin 9,000 bag-o ug kasamtangan mga trabahante aron kanunay silang andam alang sa mga panginahanglanon sa industriya sa semi-conductor ug electronics; 3) Partnership with PLDT (Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co. ) alang sa pagbansay sa 1,300 ka mga technicians; 4) TESDA-Holcim Partnership aron pagbansay sa mokabat 2,200 ka mga wala na magtungha nga mga kabatan-onon sa construction trades sama sa masonry, carpentry ug blueprint reading certification; 5) Partnership with LTFRB (Land Transportation Regulation and Franchising Bureau) alang sa sertipikasyon sa mga drayber sa PUV; 6) TESDA Specialista Technopreneurship Programs nga maoy mohiusa sa mga hintungdan aron silbihan ang nagkalain-laing panginahanglanong serbisyo sa mga panimalay ug gagmayng mga komunidad ug; 7) Updates on TESDA-Coke National Convergence Program on Empowering Women Retailers.

Si Villanueva miingon kini nga mga programa usab nahisubay sa public partnership nga tinguha sa pangagamhanang Aquino. (PIA-Surigao del Norte)

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Cebuano News: Pagamit og helmet ipatuman sa Carmen

By MSMonoy

AGUSAN DEL NORTE, Peb. 3 (PIA) -- Ang tanang drivers ug riders sa single motorcycle sa lungsod sa Carmen gimandu-an na nga magsul-ob gayod og helmet kada mag-drive bisan pa duol ra o layo ang biyahi-an sumala sa Municipal Ordinance No. 21 niini.

Napasa ang maong ordinansa aron mapahimangno-an ang mga nagagamit og motor sa paglikay sa aksidente ug sa way hinungdan nga pagkakalas sa kinabuhi niini. Kini ha-om usab sa Republic Act No. 10054 o ang Motorcycle Helmet Act.

Multahan ang mga inidbidwal nga mosupak niini nga balaod.

Gi-aprobahan gilayon kini pinaagi sa Sanggunian Resolution No. 301-2011 nga gipangamahan ni Bokal Lorito Q. Maragañas. (PGO-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)