Butuan City News December 2011

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Development for PPA port terminal in Butuan pushed

By Robert E. Roperos


BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 31 (PIA) -- The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) is pushing for the development of its port terminal in the city. According to Butuan City, Agusan del Norte PPA port manager Renato Tolinero, they are asking the city government here to craft an ordinance imposing terminal fee to be used in the maintenance of the facilities in the terminal port. “Atong hangyuon ang atong lokal nga panggamhanan sa dakbayan nga mugama og ordinance aron pag-imposar og terminal fee nga paga-kolektahon sa matag pasahero nga mugamit sa maong port terminal,” Tolinero said. (We will ask the local government of this city to craft an ordinance to impose terminal fee to be collected from each passenger who uses the said port terminal.) Tolinero added once the port terminal is maintained and facilities are improved, passengers will be afforded the convenience as they wait for for their trip. The official further said cleanliness and upkeep of port facilities will be maintained to provide quality service to passengers. The terminal port located inside the PPA compound here caters to passengers bound for Magallanes, Agusan del Norte. Large pump boats are used to transport the said passengers. This undertaking supports the Caraga Regional Development Plan, particularly the Infrastructure Development, which is also included in the Philippine Development Plan for 2011-2016. (PIA-Caraga)

Butuan City commemorates 115th Rizal Day

By Robert E. Roperos


BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 30 (PIA) –- The city government today commemorated the 115th year of Dr. Jose P. Rizal's martyrdom in a simple ceremony held at the city’s Rizal Park. City hall employees and from other government regional offices came early to the venue clad in their office uniforms and witness the ceremony as the city government paid tribute to Dr. Jose Rizal through a wreath-laying ceremony at the hero’s monument. In an interview with City Mayor Ferdinand Amante, Jr. after the program, he said the life and death of Dr. Jose Rizal may serve as an inspiration to the Filipino people especially to the youths who are the future leaders and heroes of the country. Mayor Amante also underscored the importance of serving the country with transparency and accountability as these are some of the factors to make this country move forward. “If we only have a common goal and that is to serve the country with honesty and integrity, then we could be able to reach our aspirations therefore making this country move forward,” Amante said. Meanwhile, Vice Mayor Lawrence Lemuel Fortun pointed out that the Filipino people don’t have to die to become heroes but with the contributions they have made for the benefit of the country is enough for them to be called heroes. “We should not have to die for us to be called heroes but for every good contribution that we give for the benefit of our fellowmen and the country, in general makes us like a hero in our own little way,” Fortun said. Fortun also called on the people especially the youths to live with the legacy of Dr. Jose Rizal and not just commemorating his memories. “What is important is we also have to apply the good deeds of our national hero as we strive hard for the better,” he added. (PIA-Caraga)

11, 768 families affected by flash floods in Caraga region

By MUC


BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 29 (PIA) -- At least 11,768 families or about 57, 874 individuals were severely affected when heavy rains brought about by Low Pressure Area (LPA) on Monday flooded almost all areas in the 5 provinces and 6 cities in the Caraga region. The Office of Civil Defense (OCD-Caraga Region 13) reported that the flooding in 50 barangays in the Caraga region made roads impassable in the following areas: Talacogon-Sta Josefa road section; Los Arcos section in Agusan del Sur; Awa-Aspetia (Agusan del Sur)-Lianga road (Surigao del Sur); Magsaysay road; Talacogon-Loreto-Veruela-Sta. Josefa section; Daang Maharlika (Rosario section, Agusan del Sur; damage of Sta. Maria bridge; Nuevo Trabajo and Laminga section in San Luis town, Agusan del Sur; Bayugan-Calaitan (Agusan del Suir)-Tandag City Section; Asuncion-San Isidro-Laak (ComVal, Davao del Norte-Veruela (Agusan del Sur) section; and parts of Surigao-Davao Coastal road. PIA Northeastern and Northern Mindanao Cluster head and Region Xlll Regional Director Abner M. Caga said that based on partial reports, at least 104 families or 334 persons evacuated to the gymnasium and other evacuation centers in San Francisco town, Agusan del Sur. There were 488 evacuees in Bayugan City. The approach of the bridge in Sta. Maria, Trento, Agusan del Sur going to Bislig City in Surigao del Sur was damaged, and DPWH has already posted a notice that the bridge is no longer passable. In an emergency meeting, Agusan del Sur Gov. Adolph Edward Plaza called on Vice Gov. Santiago Cane to give order to the Provincial Social Welfare and Development to have enough stocks of relief goods especially food stuffs ready for distribution anytime to affected areas. The PDRRMC are presently on alert status while monitoring the situation and consolidating reports coming from the MDRRMC for submission to RDRRMC and the NDRRMC, added Director Caga, whose personnel in the two regions are in round-the-clock operation disseminating alert and information guide to the people through electronic and print media. During a briefing conducted by the PDRRMC Tuesday, it said that the parameter fence of the provincial jail in Agusan del Sur was damaged due to strong current of flood waters. The Provincial Correctional and Security Office needed immediate repair for fear that prisoners may take the opportunity to escape. Vice Gov. Cane ordered the Provincial Engineering Office for immediate action. In Baranagay Taglatawan, Bayugan City, also in Agusan del Sur, elements of Bayugan City Police Station together with City Mayor Kim Lope A. Asis, Search and Rescue of Agusan del Sur (SARAS) and other local officials conducted search and rescue operations to the residents of Purok 2-C, 9 and 10 and rescued 42 families composed of 228 individuals who were immediately evacuated to Bayugan East Central Elementary School of that same city. The OCD also initially reported of 4 damage houses in the municipality of Lianga and 1 in Cortes town, both in Surigao del Sur. The hardest hit by flash floods are in Agusan del Sur where 8, 207 families or 40, 946 persons were affected then followed by Surigao del Sur where 2, 309 families or 13, 551 individuals were affected, said Region Xlll OCD Regional Director Blanche T. Gobenciong. The City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (CDRRMC) of Bayugan in Agusan del Sur province already started the distribution of relief assistance to affected families. Butuan City Mayor Ferdinand M. Amante, Jr. on Tuesday night already gave the order for evacuation units to be deployed to flooded barangays and enforce selective evacuation as water level of the giant Agusan river continues to rise. Initially, 100 families from the 6 flooded barangays in Butuan City were evacuated at designated evacuation centers in the city. Emergency Rapid Assessment Team (ERAT) of the province of Agusan del Norte was also deployed to Lake Mainit area to conduct round-the-clock close monitoring of the lake’s water level and provide warning/ information to the community. The provinces of Surigao del Norte and Dinagat Islands lifted Alert Level 2 upon recommendation by PAGASA Surigao Station Tuesday while relief operations to evacuees also took place at various evacuation centers. PDRRMC Surigao del Norte and CDRRMC Surigao were convened to preposition their resources and activate response mechanisms. Local DRRM Operation Centers closely monitored the situation and coordinated with concerned agencies for appropriate action. Surigao del Norte social welfare office released family packs and distributed to families inside the evacuation centers. The PDRRMO Surigao del Norte also conducted ocular survey of swollen river situation in Barangay Jubgan, in Malimono town, Surigao del Norte province. The Active Local Emergency Response Team (ALERT) of Surigao del Norte, Quick Action Response Team (QART) of Surigao City and Dinagat Island Search and Rescue Team (DISART) was deployed to conduct response operations in affected areas. As of press time, QART continue search and rescue to a missing child of Barangay San Roque, Surigao City since Monday, after being swept away by flash flood. On the other hand, the PDRRMC Surigao del Sur already activated to establish a 24/7 monitoring on the current situation of the province. Maintenance Point Persons (MPPs) of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH-Region 13) were already dispatched in their designated areas to provide assistance to the travelling public. Disaster Preparedness Team and equipment are also deployed for repair and clearing of roads hit by flash floods. The RDRRMC Operation Center here continues to maintain 24/7 monitoring and undertakes coordination with the local DRRMC’s for situational update. Meanwhile, some disaster councils spread in the Caraga region reported that some evacuees on Monday started to go back home on Wednesday as heavy rains stopped and flood waters begin to subside. (PIA-Caraga)

2 kids missing, 14,996 persons evacuated in 18 barangays in Caraga Region due to floods

By (PNA)

DCT/LAM/BS/utb


BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 28 (PNA) -- At least two minors were reported missing while about 14,996 individuals or about 3,049 families mostly from low-lying areas in the provinces of Surigao del Norte including its chartered city, Surigao City, Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Sur and Agusan del Sur have fled their homes due to flooding since Monday, the Caraga Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council reported on Wednesday.

Office of the Civil Defense Regional Director Dr. Blanche Gobenciong advised residents in low lying areas especially those also living along Agusan River to heed the call of authorities to immediately leave the area.

In Barangay San Roque, Surigao City, one-year and seven month-old Roan Libres was reportedly missing. In Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur, a still unidentified seven-year-old boy also went missing after a river in Barangay Hagimit where the minor was residing overflowed.

In Butuan City, the City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council reported at least 30 families in Barangay Golden Ribbon, particularly those living at the river banks evacuated Tuesday night after Agusan River waters rise to alarm level 2.

At alarm level 2, residents living at the river banks are advised to evacuate the area.

Environmentalist groups criticized lack of political will in the relocation of nearly 15,000 individuals residing along huge Agusan River banks, including removal/relocation of some 35 wood processing plants which do not have Environmental Compliance Certificates (ECC) because the area is included in the Geo-Hazard map which has high risk of flooding.

PDRRMC Surigao del Sur was convened for an emergency meeting to establish a 24/7 monitoring and updating of information on the effect of a low pressure area (LPA) in the province as well as scheduling of PDRRMC members to man its Operation Center.

The Butuan-Talacogon-Loreto-Veruela-Sta. Josefa Road remains impassable due to flood.

DPWH Caraga conducted monitoring of the conditions of major roads and bridges in the different areas of the region. Maintenance Point Persons (MPPs) were dispatched in their designated area to provide assistance to the traveling public. Disaster Preparedness Team and equipment are on-stand by ready for deployment when necessary.

PDRRMC Agusan del Sur dispatched its Search and Rescue Team (SARAS) to assist the evacuation in the affected municipalities

PDRRMC Surigao del Norte and CDRRMC Surigao convened to preposition their resources and activate response mechanisms in closely monitoring the situation and coordination with concerned agencies for appropriate action.

DepEd Provincial offices of affected provinces were advised to prepare schools as evacuation centers.

Floods swamp eastern Mindanao communities

By Dennis Santos, Franklin Caliguid

Philippine Daily Inquirer


BUTUAN CITY, Philippines—A child was reported missing as Surigao City residents evacuated their homes due to floods that hit the area and other parts of Eastern Mindanao Monday and Tuesday, officials said. The identity of the child was not immediately released by the disaster risk reduction management council of Surigao City as further verification of the report was being conducted as of early Tuesday. Other flooded areas in the Caraga region include Surigao del Norte and Dinagat province. In Bunawan, Agusan del Sur, floods also sent more than a thousand people feeing to safer areas starting Monday evening, according to Mayor Edwin Elorde.

Christmas celebration in Butuan City generally peaceful, PNP says

By Robert E. Roperos


BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 26 (PIA) – The entire city is peaceful during the celebration of Christmas, said Butuan City Police Director PSupt. Pedro Obaldo when asked on the PNP’s assessment on the city from Dec. 24 to Dec. 25, 2011. Supt. Obaldo said they were able to have a peaceful celebration of Christmas day because police officers strictly implemented directives by higher authorities. The city director also said they have tightened the security to ensure that lawless elements cannot commit criminal acts. “We have conducted the usual proceedings in a checkpoint where the driver’s license, certificate of registration and any other pertinent documents were asked for every single motorcycle that passes the checkpoint,” Obaldo said. Obaldo further said checking of helmets was also conducted as stipulated in a city ordinance that was recently approved by the Sangguniang Panlungsod here. However, the official said they are not only focusing on inspecting motorcycles but also the four-wheel vehicles to ensure safety of those who are on board. He added that the idea of coming up with such inspection in the checkpoints came after concerned citizens and local media sent feedback to police regarding vehicles operating in the city in spite of the lack of documents the driver has such as certificate of registration, driver’s license, and the like. Obaldo added that the Philippine National Police (PNP) is determined to solve reported carnapping incidents during the previous days and let perpetrators answer according to what have been stipulated in the law. According to PNP, no crimes related to gun-firing during the Christmas Eve have been reported yet. The official further said they are more intensifying their force as the celebration of New Year is fast approaching. (PIA-Caraga)

DepEd dispatches inspectorate team to flashflood-affected areas

By Robert E. Roperos


BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 25 (PIA) -- The Department of Education (DepEd) recently dispatched an inspectorate team to conduct damage and needs assessment to all affected schools in all affected regions in the country due to Tropical Storm “Sendong,” which killed 1,100 people as of 6:00 a.m. today. The team composed of technical staff from DepEd Central, Regional and Division Offices was dispatched to see for themselves the damages of the school infrastructures and facilities especially that classes will resume on January 3, 2011. They will also evaluate and quantify the amount of damages of all affected schools in Northern Mindanao flashflood, the NDRRMC reported. Aside from dispatching the inspectorate team, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported that DepEd personnel assisted in the identification of recipient schools for the pre-positioning of the Child-Friendly Schools (CFS) and school tents from the Save the Children Indonesia of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). Meanwhile, 14 classrooms of the Compostella Valley Central Elementary School are being utilized as evacuation centers serving as temporary shelter of affected families in the province. Further, DepEd together with members of the Education Cluster conducted national and regional coordination meetings for the Rapid Needs Assessment and immediate plans for response, recovery and rehabilitation. Furthermore, assigned DepEd staff and coordinators will join the team formed by Office of Civil Defense (OCD)-NDRRMC and Bureau of Customs (BOC). They are tasked to facilitate and monitor the 24/7 activities and operation of the “One-Stop-Shop” for the relief goods at designated ports in Cagayan de Oro City. (PIA-Caraga)

City gov’t backs PPA projects in Butuan City

By Robert E. Roperos


BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 24 (PIA) -- Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) Port Manager Renato Tolinero recently said the city government here is regularly supporting their projects, particularly in the development of the Masao Port in Brgy. Masao here. According to Tolinero, the local government through Mayor Ferdinand Amante, Jr. supports the development of Masao Port that will help boost the economic condition of the city. Tolinero said since the city is the regional center of Caraga Region, there must be a stable port here and not to be dependent in the Nasipit Port in Nasipit, Agusan del Norte. The official added this is because the Nasipit Port is already congested. “Thus, decongestion must be made in the said port in Agusan del Norte,” Tolinero said. The PPA manager here added the Nasipit Port is considered the only passenger port where major shipping lines are docked and serving the passengers in Butuan City, Agusan del Norte, as well as nearby provinces in Caraga Region and in Northern Mindanao. The development of the port of Masao was planned out during the previous administration through the late former City Mayor Democrito D. Plaza II and is set to be continued in the present administration through Mayor Amante. (PIA-Caraga)

Cost of damages due to “Sendong” nears P1.1B

By Robert E. Roperos


BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 23 (PIA) -- National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) today damages wrought by tropical storm Sendong has been estimated at P1,033,131,515. Today’s update given by NDRRMC Headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City revealed that infrastructure damages reached P1,031,195,100 while damages in agriculture was P1,936,415. Damages to roads, bridges, and other structures was recorded at P946,950,000. For health facilities, damages was estimated at P24,300,000, while damages to school building and facilities totaled P59,945,100. Region 10 in Northern Mindanao incurred the highest damage to infrastructure at P1,015,759,100, which comprises, to wit: roads and bridges, P946,950,000; health facilities, P24,300,000; and school buildings and facilities, P44,509,100. Further, agriculture damages in the Bicol Region was recorded at P385,015. Total damages in Caraga Region was estimated at P16,987,400. These include damage in six schools amounting to P15,436,000 and in agriculture amounting to P1,551,400. (PIA-Caraga)

Butuanons urged to assist CDO folk

By The Philippine Star)


BUTUAN CITY, Philippines – City Mayor Ferdinand Amante Jr. has appealed to all Butuanons around the world, especially the subscribers of butuanon@yahoogroups.com and butuan_global_forum_inc@yahoo.com, to send relief goods or cash donations to his office at the Butuan City Hall for distribution to flood victims in neighboring Cagayan de Oro City.

“We are calling on all Butuanons to help alleviate the suffering of our unfortunate brothers and sisters in Cagayan de Oro who have been directly hit by tropical storm ‘Sendong.’ Let us show that we are with them in their hour of need,” Amante said.

While Sendong pummeled Cagayan de Oro to its knees with more than 820 dead, 482 reported missing, and some 35,000 huddled in evacuation centers, Butuan, which is just a few kilometers northeast of the city, experienced only occasional rains and cloudy skies and was miraculously spared.

Butuan is known to be the flood capital of northeastern Mindanao. In previous typhoons in the Caraga region, the city would always bear the brunt and account for the most number of affected folk.

This time around, Butuanons braced early for Sendong’s fury but they were lucky they only had intermittent rain.

“We have mobilized the mayor’s office to accept donations for the flood victims, including bottled water, canned goods, noodles, medicine, clothes, blankets, rice and cash… All donations will be officially acknowledged, receipted and accounted for,” Amante said.

Amante also asked Butuanons to e-mail or text their love and holiday cheers to their friends and acquaintances in Cagayan de Oro.

“Let us keep the Christmas spirit alive in our hearts and in all of northeastern Mindanao, despite the tragedy and destruction brought upon us by Sendong,” he said.

FPA warns Caraga farmers on hazardous fake fertilizers

By (PNA)

DCT/LAM/BS/mec


BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 20 (PNA) -- The Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) office in Caraga Region has issued a warning to all Caraga farmers to avoid buying cheap fertilizer products now being rampantly sold allegedly by syndicates believed to have connections with big business establishments specializing in agri-aqua farm products.

FPA Officer In Charge for Caraga Region Lorna Belgira issued the warning saying a number of farmers and including an agriculture supply store owner in Barangay Ampayon, this city complained to her office that they bought fake fertilizers.

A rice farmer from Agusan province reportedly bought the fake fertilizers from a big farm supply store in Langihan here. Accordingly the rice farmer is afraid to come out into the open after he lost the official receipts that bores the word “Masagana.”

Belgira however refused to name the victims of fake fertilizer scam because of the on-going investigation her office is now initiating.

Belgira issued an appeal to other farmer victims to come out and sent samples of fake fertilizers they bought so that it can be sent for laboratory testing.

“We will held liable criminally persons behind this scam victimizing our poor farmers. Kawawa mga farmers natin mostly sa kanila mahihirap minsan yung perang ginamit pambili fertilizers inutang pa,” Belgira added.

Earlier, the Atlas Fertilizer Corporation issued stern warning to all rice, corn including vegetable farmers in Mindanao about the presence of fake fertilizers now distributed and sold cheap in major areas in Mindanao including Caraga Region.

Atlas Fertilizer Corporation AVP for Marketing Medel A. Enriquez in his Dec. 9 letter to all Atlas Fertilizer distributors and dealers in Mindanao and Caraga Region warned farmers and farmers’ groups that fake fertilizers (14-14; 16-20-0; urea, ammosul, muriate of Potash) were confirmed to have been distributed and sold in major areas in Mindanao including Caraga Region.

Enriquez said that based on their laboratory analysis after sampling tests on counterfeit fertilizers they confiscated it found out that sampled fertilizers contained NP/NPK levels below standard. Other samples contained no NPK nutrients at all but magnesium only.

Enriquez advised farmers in Mindanao and Caraga Region to buy only at accredited distributors and dealers.

Enriquez also issued appeal to all distributors and dealers of fertilizer in Mindanao and Caraga Region to seek assistance, coordination and help from the local FPA which is under the Department of Agriculture (DA) to monitor, investigate and help disseminate public information about counterfeit fertilizers.





Investors eye 2 power generation projects in Butuan

By The Philippine Star Updated


BUTUAN CITY, Philippines – Two Japanese companies are set to invest in power generation projects in this city, Mayor Ferdinand Amante Jr. said.

Amante said EJ Holdings Inc. has expressed interest in putting up a waste-to-energy project through the operation of a sanitary landfill in Dumalagan town.

The company has already applied for a loan with the Japan International Cooperation Agency to fund a feasibility study for the landfill operation. It also signed a memorandum of understanding with the city government for the conduct of the study.

The Chodai Group, on the other hand, would like to put up a hydropower project in the province. It conducted ocular inspections here and is set to discuss and perform additional feasibility studies.

Power generation projects are among the 11 priority Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects presented by Amante to potential investors during a recent investment trip to Japan.

The PPP projects include corporate farming and agro-forestry with farm-to-market roads as support infrastructure; development of the Masao Container Port, airport and waterways; and water system and renewable energy development.

Other projects are human resources and tourism development, housing, completion of the south market or integrated business center, drainage development and major rehabilitation of roads and bridges, solid waste management, organic food production, and upgrading of the Butuan Medical Center.

Last month, a Japanese PPP research center reported that Butuan City is ideal for PPP investment opportunities in agriculture and renewable energy.

The report contained observations in the fields of agriculture, recycling, renewable energy, economic enterprise and tourism.

Recommendations included the mechanization of the agriculture industry, the conversion of waste to energy, and the use of wood pellets as biomass fuel.

DILG directs LGUs to exercise transparency, accountability governance

By Robert E. Roperos


BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 18 (PIA) -– The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has directed the Local Government Units (LGUs) to exercise transparency and accountability governance in support to the flagship program of President Benigno S. Aquino III. According to DILG Agusan del Norte Provincial Director Clementino Pontillo, the local chief executives and officials of every LGU should at all times, exercise and implement transparency and accountability governance so that their constituents will know all the transactions that have been made. Pontillo also said the constituents must also know the financial transactions that have been undertaken by the LGU. In this way, Pontillo said, graft and corruption will be minimized, if not, be totally eliminated. The official said one way of doing this is to post all their transactions especially matters that involved financial aspect in their websites. He also said if the LGUs don’t have website, they can post it in the website of DILG. Pontillo added this is one of the mandates of DILG as advocated by Secretary Jesse Robrero. (PIA-Caraga)

OCD-Caraga alerts local DRRMC on tropical storm “Sendong

By Robert E. Roperos


BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 16 (PIA) -- As tropical storm Sendong is expected to threaten Northern Mindanao and Eastern Visayas, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) has alerted the local Disaster and Risk Reduction Management Council (DRRMC) in all the provinces of the region today. In a radio interview this morning, OCD-Caraga Regional Operations Chief Amado Posas said members of the local DRRMC in the five provinces of the region were asked to be prepared as the whole region is declared under storm signal no. 2 as of Friday morning. He added that local chief executives especially those municipalities located near coastal areas are alerted to be ready for any eventuality that may spawned by Sendong. He also called on residents living in low-lying areas and landslide-prone areas to be vigilant for the possible rise of water-levels and landslide. Posas also expressed readiness of some municipalities saying that vehicles of some municipal officials in the region are ready for evacuation when necessary. Meanwhile, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), at 4:00 am today, tropical storm “Sendong” was estimated based on satellite and surface data at 300 km East Southeast of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur (7.7°N,129.1°E) with maximum sustained winds of 65 kph near the center and gustiness up to 80 kph. It is forecast to move West Northwest at 24 kph. (PIA-Caraga)

DTI warns public to be cautious in buying substandard products

By Robert E. Roperos


BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 15 (PIA) -- With the coming of the Yuletide Season, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Agusan del Norte warned the public to be cautious when buying substandard items and products. This, after the Consumer Welfare Unit of the said agency received around 60 complaints from the buying public who have bought defective products particularly Christmas lights and appliances. However, according to Mr. Win Palma of DTI-Agusan del Norte, all complaints were given attention. “Sa mga reklamong nadawat sa among buhatan, kadaghanan niini mao ang mga depektibong produkto ilabi na sa natad sa electronics apan kini gihatagan gayud og pagtagad sa DTI,” Palma said. (Of the complaints received in our agency, majority of these are the defective electronic products but these were all given appropriate action.) With this, the official urged the public to be vigilant in buying items especially the electronic products as these are the most common items that were complained by the buying public. Palma also called the public to keep in touch with their office should they happened to experience buying defective substandard products because this may also cause destruction due to faulty electrical devices. (PIA-Caraga)

New BCPO chief to assume office tomorrow

By Nora CL Molde


BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 14 (PIA) – The new Butuan City Police Office (BCPO) chief will assume office Thursday, December 15. A turnover of command ceremony will be held at the BCPO office at three o’clock in the afternoon installing PSupt Pedro U Obaldo, Jr. who will act as Officer-in-Charge. Obaldo will replace PSSupt Jose V. Carillo. He is currently the Personnel Division Chief of Police Regional Office 13. According to Philippine National Police regional director General Reynaldo S. Rafal in a radio interview, their office has received an order from Camp Crame re-assigning PSSupt Carillo to the head office. Also, aside from the turnover of command ceremony, inauguration of the BCPO multi-purpose hall, mini library and bachelor officer’s quarter, and Christmas party will also be held on the afternoon of the same day. (PIA-Caraga)

BIR orders, reminds business establishments to issue official receipts

By Nora CL Molde


BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 12 (PIA) -- The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Caraga ordered and reminded different business establishments in the region to issue official receipts to their customers. The order was made, according to BIR regional director Norberto Vitug, because their offices have received complaints that there are some establishments in the region that continually disregard the order of their agency to issue official receipts to their customers. A penalty amounting to P10,000 for the first offense will be collected from the business establishments who failed to follow the order, said Vitug. Also, according to Vitug if the business establishment/s continue to disregard the BIR order, their office will close the erring business establishments through the agency’s “Oplan Kandado” program. (PIA-Caraga)

Butuan City Jail official wants CICL to DSWD Agusan del Sur

By Robert E. Roperos


BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 11 (PIA) -- Personnel of the Butuan City Jail here are hoping that the children in conflict with law (CICL) will be transferred to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) detention cell in Agusan del Sur. According to jail superintendent Neil Avisado, the detention cell in the said province is nearly completed. He added, the management of Butuan City Jail is doing everything so that the said facility will be completed and used the soonest. Avisado said the CICL or those minors who have committed crimes must be detained in a separate detention cell so that they will not be influenced by those criminals detained. The official, however, admitted that as of the moment minors are detained inside the detention cell here with adult common criminals. “This is the reason why we are really doing everything we can so that the DSWD detention cell in Agusan del Sur will be finished as soon as possible,” Avisado said. Supt. Avisado further said the establishment of this facility in Agusan del Sur will also help the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) minimize the number of detainees in the detention cells of the cities and provinces in Caraga Region. “Thus, detention cells will be decongested as soon as these CICL will be transferred to the said facility,” the official added. The Home for the Minors of the DSWD is located in Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur. (PIA-Agusan del Sur)

Butuan SK Federation to celebrate “Linggo ng Kabataan”

By Robert E. Roperos


BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 10 (PIA) -- The Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Federation Council here is set to open the celebration of “Linggo ng Kabataan (Youth Week)” tomorrow, Dec. 11. According to SK Federation Council President Rauzil, the weeklong celebration serves as venue for them to show to the Butuanon youths that despite of the hectic schedules of the officials of the council, they still managed to celebrate and give value to the contributions of the Butuanon youths. Carampatana further said the celebration will highlight the community extension services of the council to selected barangays of the city. He added they will be giving slippers to marginalized children and youths in these barangays. “Highlighting the activity is a community extension services to some barangays in the city,” Carampatana said. The youth leader also said the celebration is part of the high impact projects of the SK Federation Council of the city. Meanwhile, Carampatana stressed that the “Linggo ng Kabataan” will run until Saturday, December 17, 2011. The event is in line with the youth development program of the present administration. (PIA-Caraga)

OWWA establishes help desk

By Ritchel M. Molero


BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 9 (PIA) -- The establishment of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) Help Desks is set after officials from the province of Surigao del Sur and representatives of the ten municipalities finally signed recently the Memorandum of Agreement with the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) at the La Entrada, Britania, San Agustin, Surigao del Sur. The agreement is committed partnership of OWWA with the local government units to provide programs and services that shall appropriately and timely respond to the needs of OFWs and their families. The MOA signing was led by OWWA-Caraga Regional Director Dr. Marieta A. Lumawag and the Provincial Public Employment Service Office (PESO) Manager Marcos Quico. OWWA-Caraga’s Programs and Services Chief Annette F. Lovete, Family Welfare Officers Ronnie B. Azura and Lorie Ann Hilongos and PESO Managers from the ten municipalities witnessed the said event. The municipalities’ representatives who also signed the MOA were the following: Vice-Mayor Carlosito C. Avila of the Municipality of Cagwait; Mayor Genito B. Guardo of the Municipality of Cantilan; Mayor Pedro M. Trinidad, Jr. of Cortes; Mayor Candelario J. Viola, Jr. of Hinatuan; Mayor Roy Hegino S. Sarmen of Lianga; Mayor Jose A. Arpilleda of Madrid; Vice-Mayor Jovita S. Umapas of Marihatag; Mayor Honolulu C. Go of San Agustin; Mayor Alfeo G. Perez, Jr. of San Miguel; and Vice-Mayor Nelita T. Cotiangco of Tagbina. Meanwhile, OWWA-Caraga conducted a two-day Entrepreneurial Development Training (EDT) to 55 OFWs and their families in the same venue. Participants were mostly members of OFW Family Circles from the municipalities of Madrid, Cortes, Cantilan and Tandag. The EDT is one of the requirements for the OFW P2 Billion Reintegration Loan Program of the OWWA in partnership with Land Bank of the Philippines and Development Bank of the Philippines. Among the topics discussed focused on How to Start Your Own Business, Financial Literacy, How to Make a Business Proposal and Values Re-Orientation. (OWWA-Caraga)

BFP-Butuan conducts ocular inspection to establishments

By Robert E. Roperos


BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 8 (PIA) -- The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) here is regularly conducting ocular inspections to establishments and sees to it that the buildings have complied the regulations set by the bureau. In an interview with a local radio station here recently, BFP-Butuan Chief Inspector Aldrich Gomez said the ocular inspection is part of their mandate to ensure that all establishments here are safe. Insp. Gomez is thankful to the city government for their relentless efforts in supporting the mandate of the BFP. (PIA-Caraga)

Liga College may operate next school year

By Robert E. Roperos


BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 7 (PIA) -- Association of Barangay Captains (ABC) president and Banza punong barangay Nestor Amora expressed hope that the Liga College will be operational in June, 2011 in time for the opening of classes. The Liga College is one of the priority projects of the ABC here in support to the Social Development Agenda on Education, as embodied in the Regional Development Plan of Caraga Region. In an interview with a local radio station here recently, Brgy. Capt. Amora said the said college will offer scholarship to more than 600 students in the province. “We will only be offering one course as recommended by Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Assistant Regional Director Dr. Anastacio Martinez and that is on business and entrepreneurship,” Amora added. Amora explained this aimed to teach the students to be businessmen and entrepreneurs in the future, and not just mere employees or workers. Amora further said CHED Officials are set to check the building and facilities by April 2012. He said he was optimistic that barring problems during the inspection, the CHED will issue the school's permit to operate. (PIA-Caraga)

Series of earthquakes hit Mindanao cities=

By (PNA)

scs/FFC/MUC/mec


BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 6 (PNA) -- Residents of three cities in Mindanao were rattled by a series of mild earthquakes of tectonic origin early Tuesday morning, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said.

However, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) in Northeastern and Southern Mindanao regions reported no injuries or damages caused by these tremors.

According to Phivolcs, a 3.9 magnitude earthquake occurred at 4:11 a.m. Tuesday in Butuan City of Northeastern Mindanao region.

The epicenter of the quake was traced at 43 kilometers northeast of Butuan City.

At 3:09 a.m. also Tuesday, a 4.3 magnitude tremor rocked Mati City. It was recorded 179 kilometers southeast of that southern-tip city in Davao Oriental province in Southern Mindanao region.

Earlier at 1:11 a.m. of the same day, a 4.2 magnitude earthquake rattled residents in General Santos City, also in Southern Mindanao region, Phivolcs said.

The earthquake's epicenter was registered at 162 kilometers southwest of General Santos City.

NFA Caraga to stay at PNP military reservation says Ochoa

By Christine Solano


BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 5 (PIA) -- Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa, Jr. directed Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Police Director-General Nicanor A. Bartolome to maintain the status quo regarding the occupancy of NFA of the 1.644 hectares of the military reservation in Libertad, Butuan City. A petition was filed in July 2011 by local government leaders urging President Benigno Simeon C. Aquino III to confirm NFA’s continued use of the site where the grains facilities are situated. The said petition was signed by Butuan City Mayor Ferdinand M. Amante, Jr, Agusan del Norte Gov. Erlpe John M. Amante, Rep. Jose S. Aquino II (1st Dist.) and Rep. Angelica Rosedelle A. Matba (2nd Dist.). According to the petitioners, the eviction of NFA warehouses in Libertad, Butuan City will disrupt the food security program in Butuan City and Agusan del Norte and adversely affect peace and order. The petition arose after the local PNP authorities demanded of NFA to vacate the area. The PNP asserted the claim saying that it is included in the seven-hectare site allegedly allocated to it. The request for status quo was originally requested by the Provincial Agricultural and Fisheries Council (PAFC) and the Confederation of Grains Retailers Association (GRECON). Under Proclamation No. 725 issued in 1960 it was the defunct Philippine Constabulary, then an organic part of the Armed Forces of the Philippines that was given the portion of the military reservation that was previously created under Proclamation No. 526. In 1979, the AFP granted NFA permission to use a portion of the military reservation comprising 16,448 square meters for its operations. On the basis of the permit, NFA constructed two warehouses, each with a capacity of 100,000 bags of rice and since then NFA has been in continuous possession. The AFP has not revoked the permit up to this time. Military reservations pertain to the patrimonial property of the State and are absolutely under the control of the President of the Philippines being lands of the public domain. (NFA-Butuan/PIA-Caraga)

DOH turns over new P10-million peso hospital to PNP

By Noel B. Najarro


BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 4 (PIA) - Ten months and twenty-two days after its cornerstone was laid on January 10, 2011, the Caraga Center of Health and Development, Department of Health Regional Office (CHD-DOH) turned over the new P 10-million peso hospital to the management of the Philippine National Police, Friday morning. The new Police Regional Office 13 Hospital, a ten-bed capacity facility with a floor area of 810 square meters is located within the 1,800 square meters lot area owned by the Philippine National Police, at Camp Rafael C. Rodriguez Compound, Brgy. Libertad this City. The hospital has an emergency room, a conference room, an administrative section, business office, dental room, laboratory section, out-patient department, storage area, nurses station, male and female ward, isolation room, delivery room, utility room and a kitchen, which will function as an emergency obstetric and a newborn care or birthing facility. PNP chief Gen. Nicanor Bartolome did the honors of receiving the keys of the new health facility. With General Bartolome were also top officials from Camp Crame led by PDir. Victorino Panganiban, Jr., chief of the Directorate for Integrated Police Operations-Eastern Mindanao. Top police regional officials were also present led by Caraga PNP chief PCSupt. Reynaldo S. Rafal. In his welcome message, CSupt. Rafal said that the new PNP Hospital “is a realization of a dream.” He said that the new health facility will provide better access to quality hospital facilities and health care to police personnel and their dependents, as well as, the community. PNP Chief Bartolome during his acceptance message thanked the Department of Health for including the police among the beneficiaries of the Aquino Health Agenda through the health department’s program of “DOH Kalusugang Pangkalahatan.” He added a five-storey hospital is also under construction at Camp Crame also with the help of the DOH. This will be completed in six months, he said. Director General Jovencio Ordona, the guest of honor and speaker (who represented Health Secretary Enrique Ona) said that the health secretary gave him three marching orders: 1)To do the proper turn over of the new heath facility, 2) To make sure that the facility should be fully functional within the first quarter of next year, and 3) To make the services of the facility available to the Philippine National Police and their dependents as well as to the general public. Present during the blessings and turn-over rites were top health officials from DOH Central Office, Manila, led by Director General Jovencio Ordona, Assistant for Special Projects from the Office of the Health Secretary and Director Jaime Lagahit, Head Executive Assistant of the same office. Top regional health officials were also present led by CHD-DOH Regional Director Leonita P. Gorgolon and ARD Cesar Casion. Also seen during the ceremonies were Dr. Noemia Bartolome (wife of the PNP Chief), Mrs. Rosalinda Pimentel, (wife of Surigao del Sur Governor Johnny Pimentel) and Mrs. Rona Rafal (wife of the Caraga PNP chief).(PIA-Caraga)

Caraga DRRMC, warns public to take caution in celebrating Yuletide Season

By Nora CL Molde


BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 3 (PIA) -- The chairperson of the Caraga Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (DRRMC) called its partners and members to take pre-emptive actions to avert any potential disaster during the celebration of this year’s yuletide season. RDRRMC chairperson and Office of the Civil Defense (OCD) regional director Dr. Blanche T. Gobenciong warned the public to take caution on the use of Christmas lights and buying of toys with toxic chemicals. She cited the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) issuance of notice to the public to purchase and use only products especially sets of Christmas lights that bear the import commodity clearance (ICC) mark for proper performance of the product and safe celebration of the season. Christmas lights or any products without the ICC mark are products that pose danger to its users, she said. Gobenciong also said that the Philippine National Police (PNP) in coordination with the local government units would provide security coverage and undertake related administrative and operational activities especially on the traditional practice of firecrackers/fireworks or “paputok” and other pyrotechnic devices in celebrating Christmas Eve and in welcoming the New Year. The RDRRMC Operations Center manned by the OCD would maintain its 24/7 operation to closely monitor incidents arising during the celebration of the yuletide season, which may result, to exposure of people to various hazards that can contribute more vulnerability to disasters. (PIA-Caraga)

Caraga DRRMC calls on public to prepare for wet Yuletide season

By Nora CL Molde


BUTUAN CITY, Dec. 2 (PIA) -- The Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) Caraga region through its chairperson called on the public to be prepared for a possibly wet yuletide season. Caraga DRRMC Chairperson and Office of the Civil Defense (OCD) regional director Dr. Blanche Gobenciong said Filipinos may experience a wet Christmas season this year based on PAGASA’s forecast. Gobenciong said that from December 2011 to January 2012, there is a strong chance of above normal rainfall in the tropical western Pacific, including the Philippines. Thus, Gobenciong said that this year’s observance of Christmas season requires pre-emptive actions on the part of the RDRRMC to avert any potential disaster in order to ensure peaceful celebration of this yuletide season.(PIA-Caraga)

Peace movement

By Mike Crismundo


BUTUAN CITY – Catholic Bishops and Muslim Ulamas here jointly issued a statement urging peace for Mindanao. The group also appealed to all warring groups to “stop fighting and join the declaration for lasting peace in an effort to propel the development and progress in all local communities.”

In the weeklong 13th year of the Mindanao Week of Peace that ended Wednesday, the Catholic Bishops and Ulamas in their joint statement and pastoral letter distributed to all sectors of society, it advocated to “continue pray and work for peace not only for home, but also to work for peace for our entire country.”

Agusan Norte gov't approves P5-M budget for public market rehab

By Roselyn G. Exaure and Maria Rebecca C. Ayaton


BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 30 (PIA) -– In support to the 2011-2016 Regional Development Plan (RDP) of Caraga on infrastructure support, the Provincial Government of Agusan del Norte has recently approved the five million pesos financial support for the rehabilitation of the public market of the municipality of Nasipit. Agusan del Norte Governor Erlpe John M. Amante pointed out that the said fund is included in the 20% budget wherein the said project will be implemented in the first quarter of 2012. The official also said that the Sangguniang Panlalawigan has deliberated and is ready to release the fund by next year. It can be recalled that many vendors of the said public market were complaining because of its wrecked building but the current administration of Nasipit wasn’t able to attend to the problem because the local government of Nasipit has insufficient fund. (PIA-Caraga)

IACAT to spearhead Anti-Trafficking Campaign on Dec. 5-12

By Jennifer P. Gaitano


BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 29 (PIA) -- In observance of the weeklong trafficking in persons (TIP) awareness program of the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) on December 5-12, 2011, the IACAT will be spearheading the Anti-Trafficking Campaign in schools with the theme “Laban Kontra Human Trafficking, Laban Nating Lahat.” Chaired by Justice Secretary Leila De Lima, said campaign aims to inform the community on the modus operandi of traffickers and to commemorate the accomplishments of the survivors of trafficking. Also, part of the prevention campaign is to educate young students on the issue because of their vulnerability to traffickers. The main strategy is through film viewing on a 40-minute film which can be shown during MAKABAYAN (Social Studies) lessons or any equivalent subject. Meanwhile, the IACAT has identified selected schools to participate in this campaign which will involve Grades 5-6 and high school students on Dec. 5-12, 2011. It was also learned that IACAT representatives nationwide will be coordinating directly with the schools for their visit and information awareness campaign on TIP situation in the country. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

DepEd observes 18-day campaign to End Violence Against Women

By Jennifer P. Gaitano


BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 28 (PIA) -- The Department of Education (DepEd), in cooperation with the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) and the Inter-Agency Council on Violence Against Women and their Children (IACVAWC), is observing the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women with the theme “Unite: Stop VAW, Now!” from November 25 to December 12, 2011. The campaign focuses on information dissemination on violence against women (VAW), especially the services of government agencies and non-government organizations to address the needs of VAW victims and survivors. It also highlights the worldwide call to unite and end VAW. With DepEd’s Memorandum No. 265, series 2011, the schools and offices are advised to hold the following activities for the campaign: 1) simultaneous blowing of whistle on VAW advocacy as a signal to halt VAW in DepEd offices and schools on December 12, 2011 at 8:00 a.m.; 2) conduct of the Anti-VAW Forum for awareness-building among students, teachers and personnel; and 3) posting of campaign streamers in front of schools and offices. DepEd, PCW and IACVAWC are optimistic that with this yearly observance/campaign, more and more women will be informed of their rights and would no longer tolerate violence and abuses from their husbands and men. (PIA-Caraga)

18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women kicks-off in Butuan

By Jennifer P. Gaitano


BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 27 (PIA) -- Government agencies' employees, academe, and partner stakeholders participated in the 'Walk for A Cause' activity at around 5:00 a.m. Friday, Nov. 25 from Rizal Park going to Agusan del Norte Covered Court, where the ‘Hataw’ exercise and short program of the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women were held. Said activity is spearheaded by the Regional Development Council - Gender and Development Coordinating Committee (RDC-GADCC), chaired by Commission on Human Rights (CHR) Caraga Regional Director Atty. Marylin Pintor. The 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women with the theme “UNITE: Stop VAW, Now!” is celebrated yearly from November 25 to December 12, 2011. Pintor said the whistle in this year's logo of the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women symbolizes that all sectors are united to put a stop on violence and abuses to women and their children. Agusan Norte 2nd Dist. Cong. Ma. Angelica Amante-Matba, as the keynote speaker stressed that violence against women cuts across all ages of life. Many women are suffering from abuses not only physical, but also emotional and psychological. "Women should not tolerate such acts of abnormalities, abuses by their husbands and the men in general just to save their marriage and family because it will just worsen the situation. This will also have negative psychological effects to the children if they see mothers/women are tolerating violence," Amante added. Fr. James Michael Abellanosa, secretary to the Bishop Juan de Dios Pueblos said that in time with the 18-day campaign is the Mindanao Week of Peace (MWOP) celebration from November 24-20, 2011 with lined-up activities for the stakeholders. Abellanosa further said that MWOP celebration is connected with the campaign to end violence against women because when there is no violence, there is peace. “With this celebration, the Lumads, Christians, and Muslims are united for one cause and that is – to participate in the activities that will strengthen the ties and partnership among other sectors,” Abellanosa added. Meanwhile, Pintor also encourages all government agencies and partner stakeholders to initiate activities in their offices that will raise awareness on said campaign. She also enjoins member-agencies to conduct simultaneous blowing of whistles on December 12, 8:00 a.m. during its flag ceremony to manifest their interest to eliminate VAW. (PIA-Caraga)

DENR13 leaders vow to restore dwindling forests in Caraga

By Eric Fortes Gallego


BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 26 (PIA) -- Leaders of the different sectors in the five provinces of Caraga Region have vowed to restore the dwindling forests of Caraga Region by encouraging people to plant 10 tree seedlings every year over the next six years in line with the National Greening Program (NGP) of President Benigno Simeon C. Aquino III and spearheaded by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). This manifestation of support was made by the more than 200 participants to the one-day Regional National Greening Program (NGP) summit held at the Almont Inland Resort in Butuan City last Wednesday, November 23. DENR 13 regional executive director Leonardo R. Sibbaluca said most of the participants came from the remote areas of Surigao del Sur, Dinagat Province, Surigao del Norte, Agusan del Sur and Agusan del Norte. “They are aware of the importance of planting trees in the face of the global climate change which has resulted in destructive floods and landslides and are now experienced in some parts of the country” Director Sibbaluca said. Caraga Region has a forest area of 1,331,491 hectares as of 2008 but reportedly diminishing due to kaingin and unabated logging activities. In her keynote address, the Governor of Surigao del Norte and chairperson of the Regional Development Council exhorted the participants to be active in pursuing the National Greening Program. “ Our endeavors and aspirations would be meaningful only if we see every member of a Filipino family in our respective area actively participating in planting 10 tree seedlings every year over the next six years. The summit participants, who also include tribal leaders of indigenous people in the area, education, local executives, academe, media, business sector and national government and private sectors, have crafted their respective social mobilization and communication plans. These plans aim to motivate and encourage people to participate and plant trees in support of the NGP. The summit was observed and facilitated by experts from the University of the Philippine Los Banos. (DENR-RPAO13/PIA-Caraga)

Lanuza Surfing Festival 2011 to culminate on Nov. 26

By Leo P. Gerona


BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 25 (PIA) -- Some 101 surfers converge and compete for this year’s surfing competition in Lanuza, Surigao del Sur which will culminate Saturday, Nov. 26. According to Department of Tourism (DOT) Caraga, five of the participants came from Switzerland and Australia, the rest from Siargao, Lanuza, La Union, Ilocos Sur and from Catanduanes. At stake is the P200,000 prize for the 9th National Surfing Open for the Wahini, Men and Junior divisions. For the 7thLong Board Invitational, a prize of P100,000 is up for grabs. Part of the weeklong celebration is the holding of the 3rdAgri-Aqua Tourism Trade Fair and the Beach Dancing Competition. The Lanuza Surfing Festival 2011 officially started the weeklong competition last Monday, November 21, through a grand opening ceremony. Adding glitters to the opening salvo were the Beach Dancing Competition, Fireworks Display and the Cultural Show. Some guests in attendance were Director Letty Tan of DOT 13, Director Edna Mabeza of DA 13, Congressman Philip Pichay, Governor Johnny Pimentel and other local officials. The event was done in collaboration of the municipal government of Lanuza, provincial government of Surigao del Sur, Congressman Philip Pichay, the Department of Tourism 13 and the Philippine Surfing Federation. (DOT-13/PIA-Caraga)

Health forum

By Mike Crismundo


BUTUAN CITY – A maternal, child health, and family planning forum is set to be conducted at the city’s convention center here early next month.

The Department of Health-Center for Health Development (DoH-CHD) in Northeastern Mindanao is spearheading the 3rd Inter-Agency Advocacy on Maternal and Child Health and Family Planning (MCH-FP) Program on December 6, this year.

DoH Region-13 Director Leonita Gorgolon said this advocacy will focus on the orientation of partners in the Aquino Health Agenda – “Kalusugan Pangkalahatan” (Universal Health Care) and its strategic thrusts

Media Forum, Butuan will be contested unyang afternoon after the 2nd anniversary of massacre

By translate.google.com.ph


BUTUAN CITY - after the remembrance of the second year anniversary of ngilngig that crime clan, Maguindanao today held a media forum is this city of Butuan.

According of Butuan City Councilor Erwin Dano, the event naasuyng pahinungod all goes back to school where victims of the nigh-ubayng also lives in the nakalas kondiin tigbalita kaalayon to panggamhanang locally NUJP a still place this city university.

Purpose of this expeditious developments mahatagan og the course of the crime cases as well as that makab-ot justice for the victims.

Alayon it, ghee, urged the council tigbalita all who attend the forum ipahigayong unyang o'clock this afternoon in kondiin pagatambungan nigh-og kahugpungan ubayng officers.

Also he is scheduled to be held a symbolic candle lighting og prayer for the deceased in naasuyng tragedy.

3rd Inter-Agency Advocacy on Maternal & Child Health & Family Planning Program set in Butuan

By Jennifer P. Gaitano


BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 22 (PIA) -- The Center for Health Development (CHD) Caraga is set to conduct its 3rd Inter-Agency Advocacy on Maternal and Child Health and Family Planning (MCH-FP) Program on December 6, 2011 at the Luciana Convention Center, this city. According to Department of Health (DOH) Caraga Regional Director Leonita Gorgolon, this advocacy will focus on the orientation of partners in the Aquino Health Agenda – Kalusugan Pangkalahatan (Universal Health Care) and its strategic thrusts. Another equally important discussions would be on the reporting mechanism/s and critiquing of forms that will be used in the identification of Maternal and Child Health and Family Planning needs of the agencies’ personnel (if any). “The Aquino Health Agenda – Kalusugan Pangkalahatan is aimed at identifying areas where government agencies together with our development partners can provide technical assistance in MCH-FP program and further strengthen our partnership,” stressed Gorgolon. Gorgolon appealed to all stakeholders to participate and take part on this program. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Joint PNP-BFAR operatives arrest four persons for illegal fishing in Surigao del Sur

By (PNA)

FFC/BS/jsd


BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 21 (PNA) - Joint PNP and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) operatives arrested on Saturday afternoon in the sea waters of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur four persons for illegal fishing activities.

Report from Caraga Police Regional Information Office headed by P/Supt. Martin Gamba identified the four suspects as Gerry Balo, Rustom Balo, Carlos Balbares and Rolly Balbares, all residents of Sitio Bongaitan, Barangay Mangagoy, Bislig City.

Hinatuan Police said the four were caught in the act violating Philippine Fishery Law and Hinatuan Municipal Ordinance number AM-267, series of 2004, Art 5, section 27 for illegal transfer of preferential fishery privileges, rights, license, permit and grants.

According to BFAR, the four were also found violating Article 5, Section 14 of Hinatuan Municipal Ordinance AM-267, series of 2004 or for operating in the area without necessary permit.

The police report said arrested persons are now under the custody of Department of Agriculture-BFAR for proper disposition.

Toyo University presents final report on “PPP Possibilities for the Future of Butuan City”

By PIA Press Release


BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 20 (PIA) -- Toyo University Public-Private-Partnership (PPP) Research Center presented recently its final report on “PPP Possibilities for the Future of Butuan City” at the Japanese university’s main campus in Tokyo, Japan. The presentation was attended by the Butuan delegation composed of representatives from the local government unit led by City Mayor Ferdinand M. Amante, Jr., with representatives from the business and academe sectors of the city. The Butuanons were formally welcomed by Dr. Makio Takemura, President of Toyo University, and Prof. Yuji Nemoto, PPP Research Center Principal. Also present to witness the presentation were Mr. Geoffrey Hamilton and Mr. Michael Flynn, PPP experts from the United Nations, and Mr. Froilan Pamintuan of the Philippine Embassy in Japan. The final report contained observations in the fields of agriculture, recycling, renewable energy, economic enterprise and tourism. The most noteworthy recommendations include the mechanization of the agriculture industry, the conversion of waste to energy and the use of wood pellets as biomass fuel. Prof. Sam Tabuchi, team leader of the group that conducted the study, emphasized that Butuan City is rich in timber and has the ability to grow trees, such as falcata and ipil-ipil, in three to five years. He said that this is a major advantage over Western countries which need approximately 40 years to grow trees for biomass fuel production. In his response, Mayor Amante expressed that his administration is serious about the current efforts to strengthen PPP in Butuan, in line with the PPP advocacy of Pres. Benigno S. Aquino III, and that the city government is committed to work on the recommendations of Toyo University for economic development in Butuan City. The presentation of the report is a component of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Toyo University and the city government of Butuan which allowed Toyo University PPP Research Center to conduct a study on possible Public-Private Partnership Projects in Butuan City. It can also be recalled that a team from Toyo University conducted interviews and site inspections in Butuan City last September. The study marks the first time that Toyo University conducted such study outside Japan, choosing Butuan City as its first non-Japanese LGU subject. The activity also included the signing of the MOU for academic, scientific and cultural cooperation and exchange between Toyo University, Caraga State University, Father Saturnino Urios University, Saint Joseph Institute of Technology, and the City Government of Butuan. Said activity was immediately followed by a business forum wherein Mayor Amante presented Butuan’s investment opportunities to potential Japanese investors, and a reception dinner was then hosted by Toyo University for the Butuanon guests. (CMO-PIO/PIA-Caraga)

DTI & LGU-Butuan conduct E-Bamboo Training

By Cristina Dedel


BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 19 (PIA) -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Agusan del Norte, in coordination with the Rural Micro Enterprise Promotion Program (RUMEPP), Cottage Industry Technology Center (CITC) and the city government of Butuan, conducted training on engineered bamboo entitled “Bamboo Primary Processing & Lamination” from November 7-11 at the Slaughter House Compound and Ronwood Construction Co., this city. According to DTI-Agusan del Norte Officer-in-Charge Gay Tidalgo, the five-day training aimed to introduce and transfer the technology of engineered bamboo to the Caraga region’s existing and potential furniture makers. “It is also expected that this activity would encourage tree farmers and other landed individuals to opt for bamboo plantation,” Tidalgo added. Meanwhile, Elvin T. Dimasuay of the CITC actted as the trainer/resource person of said skill’s training. Beneficiaries of the training are the members of the United Furniture Makers Association (UFMA), Caraga Chamber of Wood Industries Association (CCWIA), tree farmers and other furniture stakeholders of the region. (DTI-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

LGU-Butuan, DTI-AgNor to hold Christmas bazaar

By Cristina Dedel


BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 18 (PIA) -- As part of the city’s month-long celebration for Christmas, the local government is set to hold a Christmas Bazaar on November 22 to December 22, 2011 at the City Hall Complex. Led by Mayor Ferdinand Amante Jr, in cooperation with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Butuan City/Agusan del Norte, the bazaar will be joined by micro entrepreneurs and farmers from Butuan City. Wide-array of products from novelty items, to processed foods and farm products are going to be available at low prices. The Christmas Bazaar is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. (DTI-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)

PhilHealth-sponsored Mindanao Run for Hope launched today

By Jennifer P. Gaitano


BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 17 (PIA) -– The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) here launched Thursday the PHILHEALTH RUN: The Mindanao Run for Hope 2012, the first simultaneous run in Mindanao. The activity started with a motorcade around the city thoroughfares and the program proper followed at the PhilHealth Caraga Regional Office. According to PhilHealth Caraga Regional Vice Pres. Johnny Y. Sychua, the run is slated on February 5, 2012, which shall be held simultaneously in the cities of Butuan, Cagayan de Oro, Davao, Koronadal, Marawi and Zamboanga; targeting a minimum of 17,000 runners across Mindanao. “For Butuan City, we are aiming at least 2,500 runners who shall assemble outside the Father Saturnino Urios University (FSUU) Gymnasium,” said Sychua. PhilHealth Run hopes to provide financial assistance to a chosen beneficiary with the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) Children’s Cancer Center and Blood Diseases Unit (Kids of Hope), the only facility in Visayas and Mindanao that can deliver multidisciplinary care for children with cancer. Moreover, the event will similarly provide financial assistance to Por Cristo Foundation Incorporated and Lingap Center of Butuan City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) a facility for the abandoned elderly and abandoned children, respectively. For more details on the said event, Sychua encourages the public to call their office at telephone numbers: (085) 225-7017 or 341-3359. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Nat’l Greening Program Summit set in Butuan

By Jennifer P. Gaitano


BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 16 (PIA) -- A one-day National Greening Program (NGP) Summit will be held on November 23, 2011 at the Almont Hotel's Inland Resort in this city. The event is being organized by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture (DA) and Philippine Information Agency (PIA. According to DENR-Caraga Regional Executive Director Leonardo Sibbaluca, the said NGP summit aims to identify advocates and build partnerships leading to a regionwide commitment and participation of various stakeholders in tree planting and long-term plantation stewards. “Along with poverty reduction, resource conservation and protection, productivity enhancement, climate change mitigation and adaptation, the NGP is significantly given priority pursuant to Executive Order No. 26 of President Benigno S. Aquino III,” said Sibbaluca. Sibbaluca also called on the local officials and employees of government to participate in all the activities related to this program to strengthen the preservation and proper use of the country’s environmental and natural resources. For inquiries and clarification of this activity, the DENR can be reached at telephone numbers: (085) 342-7856; 341-3250; and cellphone number 0910-340-5832. Look for Ms. Jholyvil Cocon. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

DAR turns over water system to Tubod

By Joie L. Ceballos


BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 15 (PIA) -- The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) turned over Tuesday a potable water supply system to Brgy. San Isidro in Tubod, Surigao del Norte. Costing P3.34 million, the project which includes installation of 34 units of communal faucets will provide clean drinking water to about 248 households of Tubod Agrarian Reform Community (ARC). The project is under the Agrarian Reform Infrastructure Support Project-Phase III (ARISP-III) of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in partnership with the Local Government Unit of Tubod, Surigao Norte. DAR Regional Director Faisar Mambuay expressed his gratitude to all partners --- Hon. Congressman Guillermo Romarate Jr., Hon. Gov. Sol Matugas, Hon. Mayor Cristina Arcillas for the support in realizing this project for the agrarian reform beneficiaries. (DAR-13/PIA-Caraga)

Gordon ignites Filipinos’ sense of volunteerism

By Maria Rebecca C. Ayaton


BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 14 (PIA) -- The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) has set December 4, 2011 for the conduct of “Million Volunteer Run,” which will be held simultaneously in all key cities and municipalities in the country. The activity is in line with the United Nations' declaration of 2011 as the International Year of Volunteers and the annual celebration of International Day of Volunteers every 5th of December. PRC Chairman Richard J. Gordon, who conceptualized the event, is also advocating the sense of volunteerism in the heart of every Filipino. Gordon said the volunteer run will be seen as the unity of the nation’s volunteers by running together for the sake of humanity. "It will be the defining moment for a culture of volunteerism in our country--a culture that will save our country and our people from the horrors of disasters,” Gordon said. The registration fee is P500 for professionals and P350 for students. Proceeds of the Run will be used to fund the training program of the 143 volunteers. Each participant will be given Million Volunteer Run t-shirt, 143 ID with Disaster Preparedness Guide, a whistle, race number, and Red Cross Membership with Accident Insurance Benefits or coverage. On the other hand, participants of the Million Run will also be registered as Red Cross 143 volunteers. They will be trained later on disaster management. Meanwhile, the PRC chairman said that since the Philippines is visited with natural catastrophes all year-round, the people must be empowered with humanitarian soldiers equipped with life-saving skills to help others. For this reason, the participants of the Run will be given trainings after the event. Gordon added that the best way to prepare for disasters is to train and immerse the people on risk reduction management. The Red Cross 143 volunteers is a flagship volunteer program that recruits and trains 44 volunteers in every barangay on disaster management including disaster risk reduction and disaster response. In a related development, Teodoro Cairo, Chapter Administrator of PRC Agusan del Norte-Butuan City Chapter is calling all the Butuanons to participate in the said event and make a history. For further details of the Run, visit PRC website: www.redcross.org.ph or visit the Red Cross Chapter at Capitol Site, Butuan City with telephone numbers 342-8521 or 815-9977. (PIA-Caraga)

Provincial Health Office to conduct synchronized posting of IEC materials

By Nora CL Molde


Synchronize health event on posting IEC materials takes place in AgNor

BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 13 (PIA) -- The Provincial Health Office (PHO) of Agusan del Norte, in partnership with the Educational Discipline in Culture and Arts for Development and Services - Health Promotion Project (EDCADS-HealthPRO), will be conduct a synchronized posting of information, education and communication (IEC) materials on November 14. Provincial health officer Dr. Elizabeth N. Campado said the partnership of EDCADS-HealthPRO and PHO in promoting health has benefited the communities in the province. He also said the health programs are implemented and sustained in the province by the 11 rural health units (RHUs) including its five hospitals. The health programs include Family Planning; Maternal, Neonatal and Child Health and Nutrition program; and Safe Motherhood. The unveiling of IEC materials’ posting on Monday will be held at the Nasipit, Agusan del Norte Municipal Hall ground at 7:30 A.M. It is considered as first in the province and Nasipit was chosen as the pilot municipality for the program. The activity is in line with the Aquino administration’s Universal Health Care or “Kalusugan Pangkalahatan” (UHC KP) program with the aims of improving the quality of health care services in the country. (PIA-Agusan del Norte)

Caraga investments

by Mike U. Crismundo


BUTUAN CITY, Philippines — Multi-billion-peso investments in agriculture, tourism and power energy are set to go full blast in the Caraga region which is already benefitting from the influx of mining companies spread in various areas in the region, especially in Surigao del Sur and Surigao del Norte. The multi-billion agribusiness investments have already started and are expected to fully take off in 2012 in various areas in the region’s five provinces and six cities. The investments will be in palm oil production and processing, Cavendish banana production and processing, banana chips processing, moringa production and processing, coco sugar production, lemongrass oil production, abaca production and processing, pangasius production and processing and seaweed processing.

PDEA awards anti-drug abuse program partners

by Nora CL Molde


BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 11 (PIA) -- In order to reciprocate the efforts of their partners in their anti-drug abuse campaign, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Caraga regional office will give recognition to them in a simple ceremony on November 18. PDEA Caraga deputy regional dir. Agent Christy E. Silvan said the event will be done during the culmination activity of the week long Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Program celebration that will start on November 12 with the theme “Global Action for Healthy Communities." Among the partners that will receive awards are: the Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council of Surigao del Sur as Best Anti-Drug Abuse Council; Surigao del Sur Police Provincial Office - Best Police Provincial Office; Butuan City Police Office for being the Best City Police Office; La Paz, Agusan del Sur Police Station – Best Municipal Police Station; Regional Special Operations Task Group 13 for Best PNP Special Unit; Father Saturnino Urios University – Best Educational Institution; and the Cities of Butuan, Surigao and Tandag as Most Supportive Local Government Units of the region. Also, during the awarding, PDEA will also recognize other partners in helping them implement anti-drug abuse program and their continuous support on their campaign by giving them plaque of recognition, these include: Police Regional Office; Police Crime Laboratory Office; 402nd Stingers Brigade; SK Federation of Butuan City; Regional Prosecutor’s Office; the Department of the Interior and Local Government; Department of Health; Philippine Information Agency; Butuan Evangelical Ministries Association Inc.; Atty. Nathaniel Talip; Hon. Romanito C. Amante Jr.; Mr. Reynaldo T. Bedrijo; TV 5; and Bombo Radyo. Certificates of recognition will also be awarded to Hon. Vincent Rizal Rosales; Cuartel Football Community; Ambago, Butuan City Barangay Council; Datu Dario Otaza; and Donna Castro for their support to PDEA Caraga’s anti-drug abuse campaign. PDEA is the lead anti-drugs law enforcement agency; responsible for preventing, investigating and combating any dangerous drugs, controlled precursors and essential chemicals within the Philippines. The agency is tasked with the enforcement of the penal and regulatory provisions of Republic Act No. 9165, otherwise known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. (PIA-Caraga)

Demo project

by Mike Crismundo


BUTUAN CITY – The climate change adaptation project demo being implemented by the International Labor Organization (ILO) in collaboration with the Region-13 office of the Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Labor and Employment, and the provincial government of Agusan del Norte, is now in full swing for testing of its financing schemes.

Initially, three models of innovative financing schemes are almost complete in the four towns of Agusan del Norte, as support to climate change adaptation efforts of vulnerable farming communities.

Public schools in Agusan del Norte receive CFL lamps

by Robert E. Roperos


BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 9 (PIA) -- Public schools in the elementary and high school levels in Agusan del Norte received compact fluorescent lamps from the Agusan del Norte Electric Cooperative, Inc. (ANECO). ANECO Member Development Officer Roldan Requerme Jr. said the project started last year and is intended for distribution to public schools in the country. He said this is one way of promoting the use of CFL bulbs as it is considered a versatile range of different lamp-ballast configurations that can provide a comfortable, productive, and well-illuminated space if properly used. “CFL have a much longer life – usually 6,000-10,000 hours compared to 750 to 1000 hours for a standard incandescent bulb,” Requerme said. He said media practitioners and government agencies who are members of ConsumerNet-Caraga will also be given with the said bulbs. Meanwhile, the Department of Rnergy said a compact fluorescent lamp will initially cost more than an incandescent bulb, but because it lasts longer and costs so much less to run, it will prove to be a better bargain over time. Accordingly, compact fluorescent lamps use 70 - 80 percent less energy than their incandescent equivalents. When replacing a 100-watt incandescent lamp a 20 to 23 - watt CFL is used. Compact fluorescent bulbs last approximately 6,000 to 10,000 hours, which is 8 to 13 times the life of an incandescent lamp (expected life approx. 750 – 1,000 hours). Most of the compact fluorescent lamps have improved color rendition. The light is a warm tone that is almost identical to that of an incandescent lamp. Most people cannot tell the difference. Compact fluorescents are most cost-effective when used at least 4-5 hours per day. Although compact fluorescent lamps may appear different than the common incandescent, they fit most standard fixtures found in homes today. The screw-in base is the same on both lamps. The typical incandescent lamp wastes 90 percent of the energy it uses, producing heat rather than light. (PIA-Caraga)

PDEA-13 calls brgy officials' support to curb illegal drug activities

by Maria Rebecca C. Ayaton


BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 8 (PIA) -- Barangay officials should not be scared in giving information to the office of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Caraga relating to smuggling of drugs in their barangays. This is the statement by PDEA Caraga Acting Regional Director Joel Plaza in an interview with a local radio station here. Plaza said information such as this makes it easier for the agency to conduct operations to curb drug smuggling in barangays. The PDEA chief of the region said that the coordination and support of the local officials led to a decline in drug smuggling cases in the region. (PIA-Caraga)

2 trucks torched in Agusan del Sur

by PIA Press Release


CAMP RAFAEL C. RODRIGUEZ, Butuan city, Nov. 7 (PIA) -– Two log trucks loaded with lumber were burned Saturday evening allegedly by New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in Barangay Libertad, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur province, a report reaching the Police Regional command and tactical operation center here stated. The report from the Agusan del Sur Provincial Police Office (PPO) said that about 80 heavily-armed men swooped down at Barangay Libertad and burned the two logging trucks loaded with sawn lumber reportedly owned by a certain “Dodoy” Ginon and Edgar Maglangit, both residents at Barangay Poblacion of Prosperidad town. The Agusan del Sur PPO said the raiders were reportedly led by a certain “Aka Eman.” “Based on Agusan del Sur PPO report, the owners failed to give the amount of money allegedly demanded by the NPA rebels in the area,” PRO 13 regional spokesman Supt. Martin M. Gamba said. On Thursday, unidentified heavily armed men believed to be NPA members also burned one Saddam truck at Purok Mam-on, Barangay Tubo-Tubo, in Cagwait town, Surigao del Norte. (MUC/PIA-Caraga)

P17.4M worth of peace, dev’t projects alloted for Caraga's conflict-affected communities

by PIA Press Release


BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 6 (PIA) -- At least P17.4 million worth of various peace and development projects are set to be implemented in conflict-affected communities in Northeastern Mindanao or Caraga Region in 2012. It was learned on Friday that these government projects are under the Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan or PAMANA program of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP). Initially, a total of 58 conflict-affected barangays will receive funding from the government for community-driven peace-building and development interventions. The PAMANA program will be initially allocating some P300,000 for each of these barangays under Pillar 2 on peace and development efforts, said Regional Community Development Specialist Ester Villamor of KALAHI-CIDSS Caraga. KALAHI-CIDSS stands for Kapit Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services. Under Pillar 2, the implementation of PAMANA in these barangays will be tied up with the community-driven development processes of the KALAHI-CIDSS in which people are given control on how they would use the funds they will receive. Community projects for PAMANA will be infrastructure, livelihood trainings, capability-building trainings and other peace-promoting activities such as dialogues and consultations among the volunteers. Aside from the P300,000 grant for each barangay, another P2,000 will also be given to volunteers for the conduct of community trainings in preparation for the implementation of the projects in January of next year. The municipalities that will be given grants for the implementation of their identified projects are Veruela and Esperanza in Agusan del Sur and Tagbina and San Miguel in Surigao del Sur. (MUC/PIA-Caraga)

Caravan for Peace campaign to arrive in Manila

by Jennifer P. Gaitano


BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 5 (PIA) -– Around ‎200 participants comprising of Muslims, Christians and Lumads from Mindanao are going to travel all the way to Manila by land and sea to campaign for peace. The "Lakbayan para sa kapayapaan, a Caravan for Peace" kicked off Thursday in Cagayan de Oro City. The group also stopped over in Butuan City and was welcomed by local officials led by Mayor Ferdinand Amante Jr, with a short program held at the city's Rizal Park. Ms. Norkhaila Mae Mambuay-Campong, Caravan Coordinator bared that with approximately 1352 kilometers of land travel and two sea transfers, the caravan is going to pass by cities of Butuan, Surigao, Maasin, Tacloban, Calbayog, Allen, Matnog, Sorsogon, Legazpi, Naga, Lucena, San Pablo and Calamba. “The caravan, with 35 vehicles, is expected to be in Manila by November 5, 2011. The Muslim participants will join thousands of Muslims in Manila who will pray at Quezon City Memorial Circle on November 6 in celebration of Eidl Adha while a Concert for Peace will also follow as part of the culminating program of the caravan,” said Campong. Mayor Amante, meanwhile expressed his admiration to the efforts of the Muslim community, Christians and Lumads in Mindanao who are campaigning for a genuine 'All out Peace', instead of 'All out War' in the country. (JPG/PIA-Caraga)

Suspected rapist nabbed in Tandag City

by (PNA)

RMA/FFC/BS/mec


BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 4 (PNA) -- One of the most wanted persons in Tandag City in Surigao del Sur province was arrested Thursday by Tandag Police in Moonglow Market, Bag-ong Lungsod, Tandag City, belated report reaching Caraga Region’s capital, Butuan City said.

Tandag City is about 178 kilometers from Butuan City, the capital of the province of Surigao del Sur.

Caraga Police Regional Information Office identified the arrested as Christopher Portillo Sulapas, 28, single and a resident of Cabugan, Bag-ong Lungsod, Tandag City, Surigao del Sur.

Cabugan was arrested by virtue of Warrant of Arrest issued by Judge Merlyn B. Pacaro-Cañedo of RTC Branch 40, Tandag City. Cabugan is facing Rape Case docketed under criminal case 5808.

Cabugan is now detained at Tandag City police.

Suspects in Agusan del Sur mining site attack already identified

by (PNA)

DCT/LAM/BS/mec


BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 3 (PNA) -- The Philippine National Police (PNP) in the Caraga Region has identified suspects in the November 1 attack on a security outpost of the Datu Bulawanon mining company that extracts gold and copper in Rosario, Agusan del Sur.

Caraga Police Regional Information Office chief P/Supt. Martin Gamba identified the suspects as Alex Macabenta, 22; Ysmael Abubakar, 25; and Inok Abubakar, 27; all residents of Tambongaon in Pantukan, Compostela Valley.

The police said the suspects were the watchmen of VPO Mining Company whose mining site is about 60 meters away from Bulawanon mining area.

The three suspects, who fired an M203 grenade launcher at the security outpost, are now the subject of manhunt operations.

Wounded security guards Fermin Limpot and Ronieto Lopez were already released by the DO Plaza Memorial Hospital authorities in Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan de Sur after given medical treatment.

The third victim, security guard Roger Agorto was scheduled to be transferred to a Butuan City Hospital for further treatment, the police said.

9 seriously hurt in vehicular accident in Siargao Island, Surigao Norte on All Saints Day

by (PNA)

DCT/FFC/BS/mec


BUTUAN CITY, Nov. 2 (PNA) -- Nine passengers, including the driver of a pick-up truck, were hurt when the vehicle rammed into the canal while traveling the highway in KM. 2, Barangay Osmeña, Dapa town in Siargao Island in the province of Surigao del Norte on All Saints' Day, police said.

Caraga Police Regional Information Office here, headed by P/Supt. Martin Gamba, identified the four passengers who were thrown off the color white Isuzu D-Max pick-up truck bearing plate number KDA 819, as Jolan Antipasado, Lady Mae Gallardo, Jenny Grace Bonono and Richard Peronio.

Also hurt were four other passengers, who were inside the pick-up, and identified as Janice Plaza, Mary Anne Masangkay, Masminda Lavilla and Ivy Maris Adlao.

The driver, who was also hurt, was identified as Melvin Noel Comahig, 25, a resident of Barangay 1, Dapa, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte.

Police said driver Comahog felt drowsy or sleepy while driving causing the vehicle to swerve and rammed into the canal.

The police said the victims were initially brought to Siargao District Hospital but later transferred to Surigao City hospital.

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