MikeLigalig.com

2016
Jailed US couple released,
but future of kids uncertain

By LIGALIG MIKE ORTEGA

The City Prosecutor's Office has ordered the immediate release of Matthew and Dalisay Dwinells, an American couple who had been wrongly accused of human trafficking, as the fiscal had also dismissed the complaint filed against the Christian missionary workers for "insufficiency of evidence," noting that "the fiscal is bound by his oath of office to protect innocent persons from groundless false or serious prosecution."

The case has become so sensational worldwide that one of the country's most famous icons, Liza Soberano, had come forward to "stand with the Dwinells."

In  a 29-page joint resolution approved by City Prosecutor Romeo M. Chatto, Assistant City Prosecutor Julius Ramasola Cesar ruled that the fiscal's office found "no illegal activities boiling or going on inside (a) shelter operated by (Matthew and Dalisay Dwinells), nor any violation of any of the provisions of Republic Act 9208, as amended by RA 10354..."

The prosecutor also found "no enough evidence to indict the herein respondents in court" for child abuse, which is punishable under Section 10 of RA 7610.

As this develops, actress Soberano had posted in her Twitter account, saying "I stand with the Dwinells. #streetkidspm.org," which has been retweeted nearly a thousand times as of yesterday and harvested more than 5,000 likes from her 1.36 million fans and followers on the world's 9th most popular website.

Also, earlier, parents of the kids adopted by the Dwinells had executed joint sworn statements attesting the innocence of the American couple. Scores of friends of the Dwinells had also executed separate affidavits confirming the integrity and righteousness of the missionary workers.

But the Dwinells couple had languished for at least 17 days in a separate detention cell at Bohol's National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Office and at Bohol PNP's Camp Dagahoy in Tagbilaran City following their October 22, 2016 arrest at their rented house in Bool, this city.

The NBI, with the assistance of the officers of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), raided the residence of the Dwinells and rescued at least 30 kids from a an ordinary orphanage shelter run by Street Kids Philippine Mission.

The arrest of the Dwinells sent shockwaves all over the world, as hundreds of friends and loved ones living in the US and in other countries had decried what was tagged as a false accusation hurled against the Dwinells.

As media outlets in Bohol, Cebu and Manila feasted on the arrest account of Matthew and Dalisay Dwinells, both American citizens, it was The Bohol Tribune which gave the couple an opportunity to tell their story for the first time through their counsel, lawyer Handel Lagunay, and a friend, Dennis Drake, of the famed Garden Cafe and Dao Diamond Hotel.

Last week Atty. Lagunay expounded the innocence of the Dwinells during a radio interview over dyTR's "Ang Lungsod Nga Nasayod" program aired every Saturday from 12 noon to 1 PM.

Yesterday, the Dwinells, in their first public appearance following their release from jail, spoke about their faith in God, passion to save kids from poverty and human degradation, and ordeal following the NBI's arrest during a radio interview over station dyTR's Ang Lungsod Nga Nasayod program, which was also broadcast via Facebook live streaming.

THE DECISION OF THE PROSECUTOR'S OFFICE

In the resolution penned by Cesar, the Prosecutor's Office said "there is nothing in the evidence of the complainant, or had come close to it, or even remotely, that the children living in the shelter of the Dwinells are being exploited, either being subjected to prostitution, sexual exploitation, pornography, forced labor, debt bondage, slavery, servitude, or their organs being removed or sold, or they were used in the production and trafficking of drugs, in armed conflict or illegal activities."

"Our investigation reveals that the children, including few adults, in the shelter and custody of the Dwinells are all sent to school - mostly are in Basic Education and few are in College. These children and few adults, together with the spouse Dwinells, regularly attend church activities every Sunday at Sovereign Grace Church, with its service held at Panda Tea Garden Suites, in Tagbilaran City," Prosecutor Cesar wrote.

Cesar said the "condition, situation and circumstances of these children under the custody of the Dwinells are far from what we perceived as victims of Trafficking in Persons being contemplated by law."   

In the resolution, prosecutor Cesar said it was clear to the fiscal's office that Street Kids Philippine Mission is "not a secret or underground or clandestine shelter for street children."

"The DSWD knows the existence, the location, and the one who operated this shelter," the resolution said.

"It is therefore clear to us that the Dwinells, who manage this shelter for street kids are transparent to the government and to the community," the prosecutor said. "In fact, respondents submitted before our Office the Case Folders for each of the 28 children under their custody."

Citing a Supreme Court-decided case in Aserte vs Aserte, the City Prosecutior's Office explained that "while it is the duty of the fiscal to prosecute persons who, according to evidence received from the complainant, are shown to be guilty of a crime, the fiscal is likewise bound by his oath of office to protect innocent persons from groundless false or serious prosecution."

Meanwhile, the Dwinells, in their counter affidavits, had argued that "if it is true that they are exploiting these children in the manner that they committed trafficking in persons or child abuse, then why would they have to inform government authorities where they are located, or provided a list of the names of the children to the Barangay Captain, or coordinate with the Tagbilaran Port Police when they are bringing the children to Cebu to visit their parents, or attend any several meetings with the DSWD and ABSNET, or tell the personnel of the DSWD for them to visit and inspect their place."

UNCERTAIN FUTURE

One of the witnesses and friends of the Dwinells who executed an affidavit is IDEA Philippines' founder, Dennis Drake, who also runs Garden Cafe and Dao Diamond Hotel in Tagbilaran City.

In his article "Locked Up For Caring: All Criminal Charges Dropped Against Matthew and Dalisay Dwinells," he said that despite the lofty acts of the Dwinells who were taking care of destitute kids, they were "locked up in jail for 17 days with drug pushers while the case was being investigated because in the Philippines, the justice system follows the rule, "guilty until proven innocent."

"DSWD also pulled all the children out of school and placed them in facilities so they could not escape from their own protection," Drake writes. "There seems to be something seriously wrong with this system. DSWD has returned most of the children to Cebu."

Government sources of the Bohol Tribune had confirmed that the kids adopted by the Dwinells had been shipped back to Cebu, where they come from, and according to Matthew and Dalisay
Dwinells during the interview over dyTR, they are "so worried" over the condition of the kids who were starving in Cebu before they were adopted and brought to Bohol to have a good home shelter and education and Christian-oriented training.

"They (Dwinells) believe that the children deserve the protection that both DSWD and the NBI are mandated to give," Drake writes.  "The Dwinells worry about the future of the children."

In the interview over dyTR, the Dwinells expressed hopes that they could still finally obtain the elusive license required by the DSWD for them to adopt and raise kids as God-fearing citizens of the country.

In several instances the Dwinells had talked to both DSWD officers in Cebu and in Bohol regarding the American couple's desire to obtain a license to operate an orphanage.

One final requirement was hiring a licensed social welfare officer, but according to the Dwinells, it is "so difficult" to find and hire a licensed social welfare officer in the Philippines, and they said they had been hoping that the DSWD would assist them in complying with the requirement.

Court records revealed that the Dwinells had been reiterating their concerns with the DSWD but "it was just so difficult to secure the DSWD registration requirements because there is no available licensed social worker."

Court records also noted that the Dwinells have been always open to the DSWD, DSWD's Area-Based Standard Network (ABSNET), and to other government officials about their shelter for street kids.

"They (Dwinells) were not hiding anything from authorities," court documents said. "They were acting in good faith, with pure and noble intention and without any malice."

"Contrary to the bare and unfounded allegation in the complainant, the children and the persons in their shelter are properly cared for, well groomed, have proper hygiene, and well-fed with nutritious food with three equal meals a day plus snacks," court record show.

Records also revealed that "the boys sleep separately from the girls, and they live in a safe, clean and comfortable place," a huge house reportedly owned by another American national identified as Edward Johnson, who according to media sources might also be a subject of a separate NBI investigation.

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Fake developer linked
to P50-M land scandal

By LIGALIG MIKE ORTEGA

Several Japanese investors had fallen casualties to an allegedly well-designed house-and-lot scam - and victims have told the court they had lost at least P50 million to what the complainants had accused as a fake developer in Panglao, the handiwork of which is somewhat similar to the 2013 infamous modus operandi of a dubious individual identified as Benajamin Manuel Aggenstein.

Spain-born Aggenstein, who claimed to be Germany's honorary consul to Sierra Leone but was declared "persona non grata" by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Bohol, was eventually shot dead in November 2013, but not after he milked out several foreign nationals and Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) of millions of pesos on the promise of owning a luxurious house and lot in Panglao, Bohol.
Based on Bohol Tribune's research, the latest land scam in this ultra-highly-priced Panglao has a duplication of Aggenstein's machinations.

Philippine laws have explicitly declared that foreign nationals cannot own a piece of land in the country, but misinformed foreign nationals are often told otherwise by rascals in the real estate industry.

NAMES IDENTIFIED
Accused as behind the alleged scam is a company known as AYACCA Realty and Development Inc. who had promised foreign investors, particularly Japanese nationals, of owning a piece of paradise in the island town of Panglao, in a form of luxurious houses. 

In court records obtained by Sun-Star Cebu, the paper reported that six Japanese nationals have filed separate criminal cases in a court in Cebu against fellow Japanese citizens who allegedly stood as pillars of the corporation, which was also ran by Filipino nationals sitting as partners and corporate officers.

Named respondents in what appeared to be another case of a well-planned real estate fraud in Bohol are Toshihiro Handa, the alleged head and founder of Ayacca, Tomoaki Ichikawa, Musashi Nagashima, Ai Otsuka, Tomoya Tanaka, Ryugo Watanabe, Yutaka Nakamura, Asahiko Yara and Ai Takasaki.

Also named respondents to the court complaint are Reno Banawa, alleged president, Maricel Ichikawa, Sophia Yara, Lilani Sinahon, Rosemarie de la Peña, Nicanor Cuyos, Felix Quimbo II, Maria Lourdes Alberto, Fritizie Palencia, Gerald Vizcarra, Reynaldo Agudo, Felino Cortes and Cherry Rivera.

Lawyer Danilo Pilapil, who represents the complainants, told Sun-Star Cebu that the both the Japanese and Filipino respondents are facing cases in relation to syndicated estafa or violation of PD 1689; violation of Subdivision and Condominium Buyers Protective Decree, or PD 957; violation of Anti-money laundering Act, or Presidential Decree (PD) 9160; and violation of Anti-Dummy Law, or PD 108.

The complainants told the court they were duped of some P50 million investment, which was contained in a glittering promise that they would own a multi-million-peso house and lot in Panglao, Bohol.
"No such detached houses were built in the name of Ayacca Realty and Development Inc. and Japanese citizens (cannot own land in the Philippines) as Philippine laws allow only Filipino citizens to own lands," according to a sworn statement executed by Mamoru Shioya, a Japanese national who had said he lost P5.326 million to the alleged fake developer.

THE COMPANY ACCORDING TO ITS WEBSITE
On October 7, 2015, Ayacca company, which had claimed of holding an office at Unit 304 Cebu Holdings Center, Cardinal Rosales Avenue, Cebu Business Park, Hipodromo, Mabolo in Cebu City, reportedly held a ground-breaking ceremony for its project in Panglao, Bohol.

The company also claimed that it has a business partner in Germany identified as Unity Investment Holding Limited, with has an alleged office address at Messeturm, 25th floor Friedrich-Ebert-Anlage 49 60308 Frankfurt, and whose website can be accessed at www.unityinvestment.com/index.html

The Bohol Tribune had tried to access the Unity Investment website, but the security features of the Bohol Tribune's intricate web connection sent a warning to the editors saying the said website may have been "compromised."

But the company's local website, identified as www.ayacca.com/en, appeared to be safe to browse, according to Panda Anti-virus Company.

The website claimed that "AYACCA Marine Resort's Ground Breaking Ceremony was held at Panglao, Bohol. The ceremony was honored by the presence of Honorable Leonila P. Montero, mayor of Panglao, Honorable Pedro Fuertes, vice mayor of Panglao and the entire team of Ayacca Realty & Development, Inc."
The company said it planned to build the so-called "Bohol AYACCA Resort."

"We are planning to construct a luxury condominium type hotel with 150 meters of white sand beach in Bohol island, one of the world's leading beach resorts. With this new form of single detached condominiums, foreigners are allowed to purchase a detached house and lot. Experience the spectacle of your own white sandy beach that is only a few steps away from your doorstep," according to the company's website.

Another development project envisioned by Ayacca company is the so-called "AYACCA Mall in Bohol."

"This is scheduled for completion in the immediate vicinity of the Bohol-AYACCA Resort Hotel currently under construction in Bohol Island. This commercial facility is directly adjacent to the beach and is easily accessible from the new Bohol Airport scheduled for completion in 2016," the company website said.
In one of the company's website pages, it contained a message of the President, which reads:
"Greetings from our President
Hi everyone. I am Reno Banawa, the president of AYACCA Realty and Development Inc.

In recent years, GDP growth in the Philippines has been growing steadily reaching approximately seven percent year-on-year. In 2013, the Philippines has been upgraded to Investment Grade.

We at the Ayacca Group are committed to providing our overseas investors with the best investment environment, and at the same time, contribute towards the modernization of the Philippines.
In tandem with the company's principles of becoming a 'Bridge between nations', creating a 'Fusion of Filipino and Japanese Cultures', and 'Management Rooted in the Community', our company aims to create a business system that benefits society while creating a business model for the common benefit, working hand in hand with our customers and business partners utilizing different forms of businesses."

Then the same web page published the company's "Philosophy," which reads:
"Based on the principle of becoming a 'Bridge between Nations', creating a 'Fusion of Filipino and Japanese Cultures', and 'Management Rooted in the Community', our company abides by the philosophy of creating new innovations through the fusion of Japanese culture and technology with the Filipino culture, in order to contribute to the modernization of local communities.
Bridge between Nations

As a bridge between the Philippines and other countries, we manage our business with the hallmarks of 'Reliability', 'Sustainability' and 'Social Responsibility'.
Fusion of Filipino and Japanese Cultures
By taking full advantage of Japanese culture and technology, we promote the modernization of Philippine communities.
Management Rooted in the Community

We create a network that fosters close contact with companies in the local area."

NO WAY TO CONTACT AYACCA
The Bohol Tribune had tried but failed to get in touch with the respondents of the land scam case.

Unfortunately, Ayacca company's website did not contain any contact information.

Information about Ayacca company cannot also be found at the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC's) official website.
It was not confirmed whether Ayacca has been authorized by the Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board (HLURB) to sell lots in Panglao.

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'Drug-free Bohol possible'

The province's ongoing war on illegal drugs has shifted to a higher gear, and according to the Bohol police director making Bohol as a drug-free place is "highly possible."

In an interview over station dyTR yesterday, Senior Supt. Felipe Rivera Natividad, Bohol police director, said that with the drug war achievements that the province has gained so far, it is very possible for Bohol to reach the status as drug free soon.
Dubbed as the "Bohol Approach" in wiping out illegal drugs here, the comprehensive approach is a collusion between the Philippine National Police, the Philippine Army and the Prosperity Team of the Purok Power Movement of the Provincial Government of Bohol, together with local government units and non-government organizations.

Police and military authorities and the Purok Power Movement have literally joined forces to sustain the government's campaign against criminality and illegal drugs, revealed Ms. Liza M. Quirog, Capitol's SEEM Cluster head.

Quirog told The Bohol Tribune that a Bohol-styled blueprint has been prepared which will charter how the police and the military can utilize all their resources in addressing the drug problem, as mandated by Pres. Duterte.

On the other hand, asked how confident he is that Bohol can achieve the status as a "drug-free province," Col. Natividad answered in the affirmative, adding that he called on the unequivocal support of all people of Bohol in the campaign against illegal drugs.

"I'm a positive person and I believe and I am hopeful that makamit natin ang ating minimithi bilang isang drug-free province," said Natividad, who replaced former Bohol police director, Senior Supt. Dennis Agustin, who is now assigned at the Regional PNP Office in Cebu City.

The relentless war on drugs in Bohol started in 2013 when Col. Agustin was appointed by Gov. Edgar Chatto to head the Bohol police command. Long before Duterte became president, Bohol had initiated breakthrough efforts in waging war on illegal drugs.
In the radio interview, Natividad cited the kind of intensified effort on drug war being initiated by the provincial government led by Gov. Edgar M. Chatto and the law enforcers including local officials as a strong basis for believing that Bohol would be declared drug-free one day.

"Hindi lang drug free ang ating gustong abutin, we also want Bohol to become drug resistant," Natividad told dyTR's "Ang Lungsod nga Nasayod" program aired every Saturday and hosted by Mike Ligalig.

"Once we become drug free, ayaw natin na bumalik pa ang drugs sa Bohol," Natividad said, stressing that the war on drugs is a continuing effort.

The police director reported that the Bohol Police Provincial Office  (BPPO) continues its implementation of PNP's Oplan Double Barrel, which also includes cleansing of police scalawags who are linked to drugs.

As this develops, the local government unit (LGU) Dimiao has declared itself as a drug-free town.

Dimiao Mayor Danilo Guivencan earlier told media that his town had completely eliminated the problem on illegal drugs based on reports of the town's barangay officials as confirmed by law enforcers.

Reacting to the declaration, Col. Natividad said the PNP will conduct a validation activity if indeed Dimiao is now drug-free.
The police director said the regional PNP office will also verify the drug status of Dimiao.

Earlier, Gov. Chatto had congratulated the town officials of Dimiao for their serious commitment to solve the problem on illegal drugs.
Chatto has just been cited by the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) as one of the top 10 governors in the Philippines who acts a role model in the country, for his work and commitment to eliminate illegal drugs here.

DOUBLE BARREL
In Manila, the Philippine National Police (PNP) had announced that more than 3 million houses were visited under the PNP's "Double Barrel" from July 1 to Nov. 4, 2016.

In a press conference in Camp Crame, Quezon City, PNP Director for Operations Chief Supt. Camilo Cascolan said that under the PNP Anti-Illegal Drugs Campaign Plan "Double Barrel", a total of 3,034,572 houses were visited wherein a total of 759,844 personally appeared or surrendered to authorities.

Cascolan noted that of the total number of surrenderers, 704,785 are drug users while 55,059 are drug pushers.

He said that a total of 34,002 drug operations were conducted wherein 33,255 personalities were arrested such that 14,085 of them are drug users and 19,170 are drug pushers.

Likewise, a total of 1,795 drug personalities were killed during the police operations.

Cascolan said that the "Double Barrel Alpha" was also launched upon the directive of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to address the worsening illegal drugs problem in the country.
President Rodrigo Duterte asked for an extension of six months to solve crime and the menacing illegal drugs problem.

Under the "Double Barrel Alpha" from Oct. 26 to Nov. 4, 2016, a total of 423,673 houses were visited wherein a total of 8,294 personally appeared or surrendered to authorities.

Of the surrenderees, 7,924 are drug users and 370 are drug pushers.

During the same period, a total of 1,093 police operations were conducted wherein a total of 1,724 were arrested such that 748 are drug users and 976 are drug pushers.

BOHOL DATA: 651 more accounted, 1 killed, 15 pushers, 481 users nabbed

Meanwhile, the accusation that law enforcement operatives are instrumental in the killings of drug personalities in Bohol is unfair, hints Bohol Provincial Police Office in Camp Dagohoy.
If that were the case, then no one of the drug personalities nabbed while armed, during police operations would have survived, police community relations officer Senior Police Officer 4 Quinciano Lopena said. 

Then a media reporter working in the police beat, SPO4 Lopena pointed out Bohol only saw 23 armed drug personalities killed during police operations, compared to those who peacefully yielded their arms and allowed police to peacefully keep them.
This too as Bohol saw 47 deaths, 23 in legitimate police operations and some 27 deaths falling under investigation by police authorities since July 1 to November 16.

Earlier, Psupt Nicomedes Olaivar, at the Talakayan sa Isyung Pulis (TSIP) said most angles investigators are finding in deaths under investigation point to drug rivalries and failure of the victims to settle for drug debts and payments.

Speaking at the Kapihan sa PIA, SPO4 Lopena stressed that while the police exercise restraint in neutralizing drug personalities, they too must protect themselves at all times.

In August, about 9 policemen and 3 military officers have died in drug operations, reports from the PNP Camp Crame showed.
There is no accessible record of police or military deaths yet in anti-narcotics operation, since then.

But for Lopena, his biggest argument however turned out to be: the number of those armed drug personalities who surrendered when confronted by police and law enforcement operatives.
Since October 26 when Double Barrel ended and Oplan Double Barrel Alpha commenced, Bohol authorities accounted another 497 surrenderees, 15 pushers, 481 users. 

In police operations, 19 have been arrested and only one killed, he said.

"The police mandate is to serve and protect. We do not kill," Lopena stressed. 

Pressing some more, Lopena added, if all those 19 arrested in police operations are killed, then we cannot stop the people from assuming that these are extrajudicial killings.   

But Lopena insisted that a police job does not include killing, and as law enforcers, even criminals who can be reformed shall be given due process.

Since President Rodrigo Duterte started the country's anti-drug campaign with the police launching Oplan Double Barrel July 1, until its closing October 26, Bohol police accounted for 32,344 drug personalities.

And starting October 27, or until police commenced Oplan Double Barrel Alpha, November 16, PNP Community Relations Officer Lopena of Camp Dagohoy said they have accounted for 651 drug personalities. (with a report from Rey Anthony Chiu of PIA)

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PNP: social media improper
venue to gripe on drug ops

If people have complaints on how anti-drug operations are conducted, the police have Camp Dagohoy-based Internal Affairs Service unit while the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) has its own unit based in Cebu.

At a radio forum commemorating drug awareness week, authorities recognized that people, especially the families of concerned drug personalities focused in the operation, have also rights that need to be heard, according to Bohol Police Provincial Office's (BPPO) Community Relations Officer SPO4 Quinciano Lopena and PDEA agent and provincial head Ferdinand Kintanar.
"But resorting to social media to air grievances may not help much, and may in fact demoralize the police who are performing the task," said Lopena at the Kapihan sa PIA (Philippine Information Agency).

In the same vein, Senior Supt. Felipe Rivera Natividad, Bohol police director, called on the public to cooperate with the police in their campaign against illegal drugs, saying that a successful anti-drug operation will after all benefit the entire community.

In an interview over station dyTR's "Ang Lungsod nga Nasayod" program aired every Saturday and hosted by Mike Ligalig, Col. Natividad assured that Bohol police operatives have been instructed to conduct police procedures in a fair manner as part of the PNP's procedural justice system.

Natividad noted the Boholano community can put their trust and confidence that police operations are all legitimate and in accordance with applicable laws.

Meanwhile, other law enforcement agencies like the PNP Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) have been mandated to render support in Pres. Rodrigo Duterte's war against drugs.

The PNP and PDEA IAS units are the ombudsman for the police and the narcotics agents and are manned by competent investigators, both officers assured too.

Pres. Duterte has already aired his support for the law enforcement agencies tasked to implement anti-narcotics operations and declared in no uncertain terms, his order to eradicate the problem in the next six months since he assumed office.

As this went, claims of extrajudicial killings reached the media, but in Bohol, police officials have assured that their job does not include killing criminals.

"Our job is to serve and protect," said Police Superintendent Nicomedes Olaivar during a police forum.

About 48 drug personalities from drug lords, to pushers and users have been killed since July, but Camp Dagohoy insists only 22 were killed in legitimate police operations.

Those killed had yielded guns and decided to evade capture by fighting it out with the police, Olaivar said.

The police have also the right to protect themselves at all times, according to SPO4 Lopena at the Kapihan sa PIA.

Nevertheless, possibly carried away by the surge of extra-judicial complaints resultant of the senate investigations as triggered by Senator Laila de Lima and the Commission on Human Rights, authorities see complainants starting to shift the war to the social media.

Unless they have other motives, the move to file formal complaints against law enforcement agencies is the most productive way to exact an investigation, Lopena clarified. (RAC/PIA)

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2016 News: Local authorities at a northwestern town in Bohol are still reeling from shock and disbelief that a cybersex den has been operating in their place for years without the knowledge of law enforcers and government officials.

But the clandestine criminal operation, perpetrated by a former fish vendor, was finally busted Friday by the Calape Police Station, who was tipped off by the International Justice Mission (IJM) of the never-been-heard-of cybersex scandal in a secluded area in Bohol.

It was not clear whether the for-sale videos of sexual acts were broadcast via a free social media platform, Facebook Live, a possibility that should alarm parents on their level of Facebook tolerance for their kids.

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CLEAR AND PRESENT DANGER
BY MIKE ORTEGA LIGALIG (Journalist On Site)
Terror threats in Bohol remain a clear and present danger here following the deaths of four Abu Sayyaf members who clashed with government troops Tuesday morning in Barangay Napo, Inabanga town, intelligence sources and military analysts have told The Bohol Tribune.

"Expect retaliation and expect the unexpected. Officials should not discount that fact," according to a retired member of Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (ISAFP's) Military Intelligence Groups (MIGs) who spoke on condition of anonymity.

The revelation came even as combined forces of the military and the police are still scouring the mountains of Inabanga and neighboring towns hunting the Abu Sayyaf bandits that infiltrated a remote community near a river in Napo, Inabanga. Napo, based on 2010 population census, has at least 730 inhabitants.

As this developed, Bohol Gov. Edgar M. Chatto yesterday urged the Boholano people to "keep calm but vigilant." (see separate story on front page)

Chatto said "our people should not let their guards down."

"Kitang tanan magmabinantayon. Let us be united in defeating any threat to our peace," the governor said.
At least six Abu Sayyaf members, led by Inabanga-born Joselito Melloria, have been confirmed to have survived the offensives launched by the military and the police early Tuesday morning. Three members of the Philippine Army and a police officer belonging to SWAT-Bohol were killed during the encounter.

Initial reports had indicated that there were five Abu Sayyaf members who were killed in the near day-long battle that started from Tuesday 6 a.m. and lasted until Wednesday 3 a.m., but an interview with Napo Barangay Captain Columbus Estoce confirmed that the two casualties, couple Constancio and Crisanta Petalco (who were in their 60s), were not Abu Sayyaf members.

Another Abu Sayyaf member who was wounded but died later was found buried in Barangay Lonoy Rama, Inabanga.

As of Saturday evening, military officials have confirmed that they are still pursuing the bandits in the hinterlands of Inabanga and neighboring areas.

"For as long as they are alive, they pose extreme danger to the people," the retired MIG member said yesterday in a phone interview.

During the clearing operation, military had recovered several bomb-making materials, and according to an intelligence source, the possible target by the notorious terror group was the upcoming Association Southeast Asian (ASEAN) Summit, which will be held in Panglao Island on April 18-22, 2017.

Troops recovered four assault rifles, rifle grenades and a sack load of bomb-making materials, including detonating cords, blasting caps and electronic bomb parts, according to an Associated Press report, which was confirmed by a Bohol Tribune source who was involved in the inventory of the recovered weapons and bomb-making devices.

The AP report added: "It remains unclear what the targets of the militants were, but Bohol draws foreign and local tourists for its beach resorts, waterfalls, caves and wildlife. Bohol island lies about 640 kilometers (397 miles) southeast of Manila and is about an hour by boat from Cebu province, a trade and tourism center. Bohol is to host a meeting next week of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, the regional bloc the Philippines is leading this year."

The foiled terror attack, according to the source, does not mean the mission will now be abandoned.

"There is always a Plan B, Plan C, and even Plan D," the source said. "We never know what, but we better brace for the worst."

"The Abus want to make a statement. Perhaps they want to shame the Duterte administration," the source noted.

Two days before the clash, the US Embassy in Manila had issued a travel warning to its citizens, urging them to reconsider their travel plans to Central Visayas due to an imminent kidnapping and bombing plot. The embassy had asked American citizens to stay away from crowded areas in Cebu and Bohol.

Military and police officials did not consider the US Embassy's travel warning seriously, and in fact, PNP Regional Director Chief Supt. Noli Talino issued a statement assuring visitors that Central Visayas was safe to visit.

But when the Inabanga incident broke out, the US Embassy was proven accurate in its travel warning.

"If you ask me if there remains a threat, yes, there is, especially now that the group had lost four of their comrades," the MIG source said.

EVACUEES
When the war broke out, hundreds of residents from Napo and neighboring barangays fled the area and sought refuge at the municipal hall of Inabanga where they were taken care of by Mayor Josephine Socorro "Roygie" Jumamoy.

More than 1,000 families were evacuated in at least 12 evacuation centers in Inabanga, Clarin and Tubigon.

Provincial Administrator Damalerio, in coordination with Mayor Jumamoy, had mobilized the TaRSIER117 and DSWD-Bohol teams to ensure that the evacuees were provided with their basic needs while they sought shelter in schools and sports centers.

Damalerio told the Bohol Tribune that individuals, particularly women and children, have undergone stress debriefing sessions with psychologists and DSWD workers.

"We will do everything to restore their inner peace," Damalerio said.

As of press time, hundreds of families remain in evacuation centers as the clearing operation of the military has not ended.

Residents interviewed by media said they would only return to their homes when they are assured that the fleeing Abu Sayyaf members have been arrested or killed by the government troops.

Mayor Jumamoy told The Bohol Tribune that evacuees can choose at the evacuation centers at the cost of LGU Inabanga, for as long as the threat is imminent.
"Wala silay angay nga problemahon kay ato silang tagaan sa ilang mga gikinahanglan samtang wala pa sila makabalik sa ilang mga panimalay," Mayor Jumamoy said.

EARLY TUESDAY MORNING
Before the gun battle broke out on Tuesday (April 11, 2017) morning, The Bohol Tribune received the following intel report from a highly-placed source in-charge of the security situation in the province of Bohol.

The confidential report reads:
Information coming from G2, 3ID, PA. As of 101700 April '17,  one of the ASG members alyas under MUAMMAR ASKALI @ABU RAMI previously monitored in Sindangan, Zamboanga Del Norte was already in Inabanga, BOHOL. This is different from the one monitored last 10 1000H Apr 17 midnight in Siquijor.
Good pm sir for info:
Significant intelligence report fm WESMINCOM on the planned kidnapping of ASG sub leader Alhabsy MISAYA.
Informant disclosed that ASG subleader Alhabsy MISAYA with Badong Muktadil and more or less 20 armed men left Kalingalang Caluang, Sulu Province midnight of 29 March 17, utilizing two speedboat (colored white and gray). Accordingly, the group will stage a kidnapping activity in the area of Tawi-Tawi and at the cross border area then will return back to their safe haven in Sulu after their operation.

Assessment: Since the informant was left behind, he averred that Alhabsy MISAYA might conduct kidnapping in other areas like in Eastern Mindanao and the Visayas.
Brief Details of alleged ASG monitored in Lazi, Siquijor coming from U2, CENTCOM...
Leader: ASG Sub-leader MUAMMAR ASKALI @ABU RAMI
- using two (2) Junkong-type boats with outboard engines
- members are young aged 18-25 yrs old
- each boat can accommodate 10-12 persons with each boat having 4-6 pers to cater kidnap victims
+++++++

Military officials have confirmed that Abu Rami was one of those killed in Napo, Inabanga.

The slain Abus, together with the elderly couple Petalco, had been laid to their final rest in a barangay in Inabanga on Good Friday.

TERROR PLOT
Military spokesman Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said combined military and police forces in Bohol thwarted "major terrorist activities" by the militants, who were aiming to divert the military's focus from intense offensives on the militants' jungle encampments in southern Sulu province and outlying islands.

Interviews with three security officials, along with documents and pictures seen by The Associated Press, indicated that three extremist groups that have pledged allegiance to IS deployed their leading bombers and fighters, some of whom wore IS-style black flag patches, for the Bohol assault.

The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to disclose details of the ongoing investigation of the foiled attack.

VERIFIED
The Bohol Tribune learned that the intel report it received early in the evening was factual as this paper learned that members of SWAT-Bohol were already deployed in Napo, Inabanga as early as night of Monday.

One of those SWAT-Members was PO2 Rey Anthony Villas Nazareno, 31, who was later killed in the battle.
A SWAT-Bohol member told The Bohol Tribune that Nazareno was hit in the abdomen by a sniper's bullet at around 9 a.m. of Tuesday. The wound was so fatal that he immediately expired in less than a minute.

Aside from Nazareno, a native of Barangay Ulbujan, Calape, those who also died in the fight against the Abu Sayyaf were 2nd Lt. Estilito Saldua Jr., Corporal Miljune Cajaban, and Sgt. John Dexter Duero, all of the Philippine Army based in Bohol.

Provincial Administrator Ae Damalerio has been instructed by Gov. Chatto to facilitate the honoring of the fallen heroes and ensure that their families are provided with necessary assistance.

BUSINESS AS USUAL, PEACE REIGNS
Meanwhile, Gov. Chatto told the Bohol Tribune yesterday that "Holy week activities are going on as customary in Bohol with thousands of faithfuls seen in churches and procession lines.

"Foreign and local tourists have filled the airport,  ports , hotels and resorts. Police and Military authorities in Bohol have assured safety of the public," the governor said.

"They are continually conducting police operations to contain the lawless elements in the municipality of Inabanga and to neutralize their capability to cause any atrocities in the province," Chatto said.

Holy Week events like the Good Friday rituals and the traditional Easter Sunday HUGOS/SALUBONG are looked forward to with excitement, he added.

AFP CITES COOPERATION OF BOHOLANOS THAT NIP IN THE BUD TERROR ATTACK ON BOHOL
The military on Saturday lauded the Boholanos for the timely information about the presence of 10 heavily armed Abu Sayyaf terrorists that slipped into the shorelines of Bohol early last Tuesday that nipped in the first terror attack on Bohol.

Brig. Gen. Resty Padilla Jr., spokesman of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), said Boholano civilians living near the shorelines of Barangay Nabo in the town of Inabanga were the ones who first tipped off local authorities about the presence of armed men on board three motorized boats that landed about 5 a.m. last Tuesday.

Barangay Nabo is about 71 kilometers northwest of capital city of Tagbilaran.

Barangay officials immediately relayed the information to the police and military authorities who immediately sent troops to confront the armed men, who were later identified as the Abu Sayyaf terror group.

Fighting immediately erupted between the combined military and police forces against the Abu Sayyaf, led by Abu Rahmi, a notorious terrorist leader from Sulu. The gun battle lasted for 21 hours.

Philippine Air Force (PAF) planes and helicopters were deployed, bombing and strafing the terrorists who had sought refuge in caves in Barangay Nabu, which are many in the village.

Rahmi was among the six Abu Sayyaf terrorists who were killed. The military also suffered four killed, including an army lieutenant.

It was the first time that the Abu Sayyaf sneaked into Bohol, a paradise island, a popular destination for foreign and local tourists.

Had the terrorist made a successful landing undetected, it would have been an unforgettable nightmare for Bohol.

Padilla said the timely report by civilians nipped in the bud the Abu Sayyaf evil intention to sow terror in the island-province.

He said civilian-military cooperation is very important in maintaining peace and order in the country.

It may be recalled that Bohol was the first province in the entire country that crushed the communist insurgency of the New People's Army (NPA) in 2009 during the time of then Gov. Erico B. Aumentado. (with reports from Bencal, PNA and Associated Press)- Published April 16, 2017

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Thousands bid final farewell
to slain Bol-anon BIR director,
Jonas Dela Peña Amora

MARIKINA CITY - The well-loved Boholano BIR official who was ambushed and killed in Quezon City last Monday on his way to office was finally laid to his final rest yesterday midday under a gloomy, downcast sky at Loyola, Marikina City, with hundreds of relatives and friends weeping for the loss of what they consider a "great public servant and a genuine human being who deeply cared for people including strangers" while thousands of others from across the globe watched in grief the final moments on earth of Director Jonas Dela Peña Amora broadcast live on Facebook.

As this develops, authorities have released a cartographic sketch of the gunmen who ambushed and shot to death Amora, the Makati-based Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Regional Director, who was inside his car en route to his office in Makati City at 5:20 a.m.

Following his death, BIR officials and employees issued the following statement:

"We roundly condemn his senseless and cruel murder, and call on the authorities to bring his assassins to justice.

"The only thing necessary for evil to prevail is for men to do nothing.

"The Bureau will not be intimidated, threatened or coerced, into the dereliction or abandonment of our responsibilities, nor will we be enslaved by ruthless elements who worship at the altar of iniquity. Rather, we shall be ever more determined to fulfill our mandate, as a tribute to our fallen comrade."

Amora sustained four gunshot wounds to the body after riding-in-tandem assassins overtook his government-issued Toyota Innova car, driven by Angelito Pineda, and peppered the car with bullets at a junction near C-5 Highway in Quezon City. The late Ombudsman Aniano Desierto was also ambushed but survived at the same area where Amora died on the spot. Angelito Pineda, his driver, was also wounded and still confined in a hospital in Manila, unable to talk.

As Amora, a native of Anda, Bohol, was laid to his final rest, loved ones and friends reecho their call for Pres. Duterte to help find justice to the slain father of two daughters and a son. His wife, Tessie, at Arlington Chapel, an hour before her husband's body was brought to Loyola, Marikina, told mourners how unbearable the pain is, for her and for their three children, now that a great husband and a great father had gone.

Amora, who rose to the ranks at the internal revenue bureau, his employer since graduating college from Urios College (now University) in Butuan City, was supposed to travel to New Zealand, a day before he was murdered, to participate in a conference.

But according to James Porter, a family friend, Amora declined the conference invitation "because, if he travels, he would miss work days and fail to hit BIR's collection quota."

BIR officials described Amora as a workhorse at the revenue agency. Previously, he headed the regional BIR bureau in Quezon City.

Due to his outstanding work in tax collection in which Amora followed the law to the letter, he was assigned to head the Makati Office, who has the jurisdiction over the country's financial district.

Hard work was already embedded in the DNA of Amora. A valedictorian graduate at Bacong Elementary School in Anda, Bohol, and later finished high school in Holy Infant Academy, also in Anda, Bohol, Amora sent himself to college as a working student.

After finishing accountancy degree at then Urios College, he took the CPA exam and passed it at one attempt. He then worked as an entry-level tax examiner in Surigao, then in Butuan City.

Eventually, his hard work and diligence and commitment to collect tax, considered as the lifeblood of the nation, the BIR National Office recognized his performance, and Amora was then assigned in the National Capital Region.

Since assigned in Manila, he consistently met all his tax collection quotas, believing that it was his way of helping the country become financially stable.

Amora never compromised his godly principles. He was strict to all businesses in demanding compliance with their tax obligations.

But to friends and strangers, Amora was an extraordinarily loving man, who was quiet and calm at any time and at any gatherings. He rarely spoke as his words were reserved to the most important topics. He was often seen in deep thought, always looking for ways how he can better serve the government and the people.

Last Monday, he woke up at past 4 a.m., aiming to leave his home before 5 a.m. so that he could beat traffic and reach his office around 7 a.m. and be able to join the flag-raising ceremony.

But assassins had already waited for him outside his residence. As soon as his car left home, the gunmen followed his vehicle, and at a junction near C-5 Highway, guns-for-hire killed one of the most humble persons on earth and one of the most generous hearts in this generation.

Rafaela Avanceña, a BIR executive, considered Director Jonas Amora as "My boss, my mentor, a father figure, a kind hearted friend, a motivator and a dedicated hardworking public servant. One of the very few on his league. The first ISO Certified Regional Director in the BIR who made a milestone!"

Upon learning of the tragic death of Amora on Monday, 60 days after Amora celebrated his 55th birthday, Avanceña wrote on her Facebook account: "Writing this with a heavy heart. Why do bad things happen to good men? "

"Today a very dedicated , hardworking , principled employee of the BIR was gunned down by heartless people.

"He was a religious family man, a mentor of highest caliber, a very good friend to everyone, jolly fellow and a patriotic public servant of the government.

"He has a big heart for the less privileged, a man with few words but full of wisdom, a music lover, an intelligent strategic manager and very active team player.

"He is a big loss for the agency that helped propelled the nation's development."

Then she addressed her message to Amora:

"Sir, you may have gone ahead of us, but your legacy continues.

Now you may rest in peace, no more collection target to think of even in holidays. The people you have touched in your life are grieving for your early untimely demise. The Lord knows your kind heart. We love you sir and I am personally forever grateful for all your assistance and teachings." (LIGALIG MIKE ORTEGA)

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Bolanon soldier killed in Marawi
was worried of mother's health
By LIGALIG MIKE ORTEGA

The last time Corporal John Garcia updated his Facebook profile was on May 15, 2017, or eight days before the ISIS-backed Maute group militants attacked Marawi and placed the city in ruins.

In his FB profile photo, Garcia was sporting a soldier's uniform belonging to the Philippine Marine Corps. A handheld radio gadget was safely tucked on his jacket, just below on his left shoulder.

Garcia did not indicate where his location was, but he was in full battle gear.

After the May 15 profile update, Garcia did not post anything on his Facebook account (Jhon Garcia), an unusual shift of online behavior for a social media-savvy radioman for a team of Philippine Marines.

On June 9, 2017 (or last Friday), his profile was flooded with words of grief from loved ones and friends.

They could not believe that that the 29-year-old soldier, who graduated from the Bohol Island State University (BISU) and finished secondary education at Mahayag National High School in San Miguel town, had gone too soon.

On Friday, Garcia, a native of San Miguel town, Bohol, paid the ultimate sacrifice for the country, in the fight against terrorism.

He was one of the 13 government troops from the Philippine Marines who perished during a 14-hour close quarter combat in Marawi City.

Fourteen other marines were wounded in the fierce gun battle that sent a clear message to Pres. Duterte that the war in Marawi City is far from over, and that the enemies of the government are not showing any semblance of weakness.

The death of Corporal Garcia brought the total number of government casualties to 58, with more than a hundred government troops wounded or declared "missing in action."

Grief-stricken, John's younger brother, Bryan, yesterday changed his Facebook profile image, using the picture of Corporal John Garcia, now hailed as one of the heroes of Marawi.

In the picture of his fallen brother, Bryan wrote a caption: "Call of Duty - There's A Soldier In All of Us."

Unable to express his pain, Bryan scattered a lot of weeping emoticons in between phrases, and wrote these words: "dawaton nalang hooo! Paita oy! Unsaon man mao may kapalaran nimo kuya...wanaj ud mi mabuhat be strong nalang mi. Pero sakit jud kaau oy..."

When John was about to be deployed to Marawi as part of the re-enforcement troops battling ISIS militants, the young soldier decided not to tell his mother about his new assignment.

A screenshot of an FB messenger chat with an Ate showed John's tender heart for his ailing mother: "Oo te salamat kaau te wla naq magkontak nila mama kai basin musamot iya sakit te."

It appeared that John was referring to his deployment to the embattled city of Marawi.
Then came the answer of the one he called Ate:
saktolang dong
importante presence of mind ha
motawag ko karon sa tugas
magpadagkot ko sa kapilya
mangamuyo
daghan pa diay na sila dong?

John's reply was full of gratitude as expressed in these words: "slamat kaau te dako kau ng tbang naq inyo pagampo pra hatagan q ugl akas ng loob ni Lord te salamat kaau."

The brave young man only asked for strength and courage, not even protection, to fulfill his duty for the Filipino nation.

Friday's fierce firefight came as a surprise to the military who had believed that armed militants were weakening after an 18-day war.

Ironically, the government on Friday suffered the largest number of casualty in a single day of firefight.

Earlier, 11 soldiers were killed and several other troops were wounded when a wayward bomb dropped by a jetfighter hit the soldiers' location pointblank.

One of the casualties in last Friday's 14-hour never-say-die gun battle was John's senior officer, 1st Lt. Frederick Savellano, the company commander of the team that recovered the P52 million cash from a building which was used as a sniper's lair in the besieged city of Marawi.

Aside from the P52 million cash, Savellano's team also recovered checks worth P27 million.

In a press briefing, military spokesperson, Lt. Col. Jo-ar Herrera,told media: "Ang goal talaga ng Marines is to facilitate the rescue of hostages that were held in that area," Herrera said, "So while they were conducting combat-clearing operations, ang ginawa ng local terrorist group ay naglagaysila ng IED (improvised explosive device), naglagaysila ng B40 and RPGs (rocket-propelled grenades) in the area."

Herrera revealed that last Friday's firefight was the most intense so far since Marawi was attacked on May 23, 2017 by the ISIS-funded Mauteterror group.

The military said the number of armed militants fighting against government troops was reportedly increasing.

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News Release: A turnover ceremony of a multi-purpose building in Brgy. Cogon, Ormoc City took place this afternoon, March 25.

Contract cost of the aforesaid project is Php 3,841,599.21 and has a total floor area of 220.16 square meters.

The two-storey newly built multi-purpose hall will be used as a mezzanine storage area, proposed radio room / command post and command center / conference hall.

Accordingly, funding for the project came from the General Appropriations Act (GAA) 2020, thus, big thanks to the efforts of Leyte 4th District Congresswoman Lucy Torres-Gomez, Mayor Richard I. Gomez and the Ormoc Development Team (ODT) for making sure that the project is implemented.

The good congresswoman Lucy Torres-Gomez herself led the ribbon-cutting ceremony together with Mayor Richard I. Gomez, Vice Mayor Leo Carmelo Locsin, Jr., SP Member Vince Rama, SP Member Lalaine Marcos, and Brgy. Cogon PB Ma. Cassandra T. Codilla together with her councilors, were also present during the said activity.

The implementing agency of said road project is the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Leyte 4th District Engineering Office spearheaded by District Engineer Arnaldo Bonifacio.


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News Release: The country's biggest train station—the *COMMON STATION*, is poised for completion in December this year, linking major railway systems in Metro Manila!

Located on North Avenue in Quezon City, the Common Station has already reached a completion rate of just under 48.48%.

This is a long overdue transport infrastructure project that would have considerably eased mobility of commuters in Metro Manila, particularly along the main transit routes, from Baclaran to Monumento to the entire length of EDSA.

The project was designed to be a common hub for the Metro Rail Transit Line 3, Light Rail Transit Line 1 and the eventual MRT-7 and Metro Manila subway lines.

Those railway systems serve various points in Metro Manila as well as the provinces of Cavite and Bulacan.

Rremaining construction activities were being accelerated and "work is done 24/7."

The Common Station will feature a 13,700-square meter concourse area, where passengers could transfer between railway systems.

Delayed for almost eight ( years, Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade played a key role in brokering an agreement among stakeholders in 2017, allowing the construction of the common station to proceed.

#DOTrPH #RailwaysSectorWorks #BUILDBUILDBUILD #ComfortableLifeForAll #RechargePH

READ MORE: https://business.inquirer.net/319989/ph-set-to-finish-largest-most-crucial-train-station-by-years-end#ixzz6q7e7TVws

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𝗕𝗢𝗖 𝗰𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝟰𝟬𝟬,𝟬𝟬𝟬 𝗱𝗼𝘀𝗲𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗦𝗶𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗮𝗰 𝗩𝗮𝗰𝗰𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀

Bureau of Customs, through the Port of NAIA, facilitated the immediate clearance and release of 400,000 doses of Sinovac vaccines donated by China, which arrived in Terminal 2 via Flight No. PR 361 on March 24, 2021.

This is the second batch of the Sinovac vaccine donations from China. The first 600,000 doses of vaccine arrived last February 28, 2021, which was witnessed by no less than His Excellency, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte.

In the arrival of second batch of Sinovac , DOH Secretary Francisco Duque III, Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines, Huang Xilian, Testing Czar Vince Dizon and Senate Committee on Health Chairperson, Senator Bong Go, witnessed the arrival of the said vaccines .

Bureau of Customs Commissioner Rey Leonardo B. Guerrero assured the public that the BOC will continue to expedite the processing, clearance and release of Covid-19 vaccines and related shipments amid the rapid surge of infections in the country.

District Collector Carmelita M. Talusan said that BOC NAIA will further strengthen collaborations with other agencies – Department of Health (DOH) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to ensure that only safe and registered Covid-19 related goods will be cleared and process to protect the public.

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𝗕𝗢𝗖-𝗠𝗜𝗖𝗣 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗿𝗲𝗵𝗲𝗻𝗱𝘀 𝟰𝟬𝟬 𝗕𝗮𝗹𝗲𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗨𝗸𝗮𝘆 𝗨𝗸𝗮𝘆 𝗶𝗻 𝗣𝗮𝘀𝗮𝘆

As part of the Bureau of Customs' pursuance of its mandate for border security, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) through the Manila International Container Port's (MICP) Enforcement and Security Service (ESS) in coordination with the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) apprehended on March 24, 2021, 400 bales of used clothing in an inspection conducted in Malibay, Pasay City.

Armed with a Letter of Authority signed by BOC Commissioner Rey Leonardo B. Guerrero, the composite team of MICP ESS, CIIS, and PCG inspected the storage facility which resulted in the discovery of 400 bales of used clothing, estimated to have a market value of Php 3.2 Million.

Further investigation and inventory are being conducted for possible filing of cases against the yet-to-be-determined owner of the items for the possible violation of Section 1400 of RA 10863 also known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA).

The apprehension of ukay-ukay in Pasay marks the 2nd apprehension of MICP for the week as the Port also apprehended last March 23, 2021, Php 48 Million worth of smuggled cigarettes from China which were declared as cartons, bicycles, and folding tables.

As continuous efforts are implemented to stimulate the economy from the effects of COVID-19, the Manila International Container Port under the guidance of Commissioner Rey Leonardo B. Guerrero remains committed to pursuing its mandate to secure the country's borders from the entry of illegal goods.


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To Avoid Matnog!
By Manny Piñol

Alternate Routes to Manila
From Mindanao via Panay

With the worsening gridlock at the Matnog Port in Sorsogon, the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) is recommending an alternate route for truckers and travelers from Mindanao to Luzon.

The jump-off site is the Port of Dapitan City which is excellently manned by the Philippine Coast Guard and the Philippine Ports Authority where Fast Crafts could cross the Sulu Sea and land in Dumaguete City in less than four hours.

This is the same port used by trucks loaded with fish and marine products from Mindanao to Cebu City where from Negros Oriental, the trucks take another ferry to the western part of Cebu Island onwards to the markets of Cebu City.

From Dumaguete, it will be a 6-hour drive by truck and just 4 hours by car to Bacolod City followed by a 1-hour ferry boat ride to Iloilo.

From Iloilo City, it will be another 6-hour drive to the Port of Caticlan in Aklan where the truckers will have two options.

The less expensive route would be to take another ferry to Bulalacao, Oriental Mindoro then drive up to Calapan and cross the channel to Batangas.

The more expensive and convenient option would be to take the 2-Go Vessel which sails overnight from Caticlan to the Port of Batangas.

I have taken this route several times and while there are more ferry boat rides and a bit more expensive, this is a smoother and easier option.

The route also offers travelers who are not in a hurry to see historical and beautiful sites, like the Shrine of Dr. Jose Rizal in Dapitan City and buy "pasalubongs" like "Piaya" and "Organic Muscovado" sugar in Negros.

Seafoods are also aplenty along the route, from Zamboanga del Norte to Iloilo and Aklan.

Try this route. Surely, you will enjoy it.

#KungGustoMaramingParaan!
#TravelingExploringPhilippines!

(Map of the Dapitan City-Batangas City route downloaded from Google.)


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Press Release: Engr. Raoul Cam of the City Planning and Development Office had a brief meeting with our environment-friendly City Mayor on March 22.

According to Engr. Cam, Mayor Gomez showed him the first phase of the installation of solar panels on the rooftop of the city hall. The solar panels are renewable source of energy which is aligned with SDG 7 or affordable and clean energy goal.

They also discussed the possiblity of replicating the aforesaid solar panels in other public buildings as part of the city's climate action or response to climate change resiliency.

SP Member Gregorio Yrastorza lll and Kananga Municipal Asministrator, Atty. Lito Solibaga were also present during the meeting.


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Press Release: Due to ongoing excavations in city streets and the expansion project at Mangonbangon bridge along Paseo de Legaspi street, the TOMECO is advising motorists of the following temporary rerouting schemes at specific hours of the day for vehicles plying the downtown area.

7:00 AM – 9:00 AM

From Real/Astrodome to Noblejas junction Entrance only
Pampango, Magallanes to Old Road Exit only

From Noblejas junction to corner Imelda/Real McDo two way left turn to Magallanes street up to Old Road Sagkahan.

From Imelda/Veteranos left turn going to Noblejas junction also going straight to Magallanes for Exit.

9:01 AM – 4:00 PM

From Real/Astrodome to Noblejas junction two way

4:01 PM – 7:00 PM

From Noblejas junction Exit up to Astrodome.

From Real/Astrodome down to Magallanes, Pampango Entrance only.

From Imelda/Veteranos left turn going to Noblejas junction also right turn going to Real for Exit.

#cmiso #TaclobanSafeCity


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By Manny Piñol
Fast Economic Recovery

Ease Up LTO-HPG Checkpoints;
Facilitate Bank Loan Releases

The Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) will organize on Wednesday, March 31, a multi-agency council to address issues and problems which hamper Mindanao's economic recovery.

Among the agencies to be involved in the Economic Recovery Facilitation Council are the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and the PNP Highway Patrol Group whose mobile highway checkpoints had caused the disruption of traffic, especially the travel of cargo trucks carrying vital commodities to the market.

The other vital institutions which would be included in the council are the Chambers of Commerce and Industry in Mindanao, Land Bank of the Philippines and the Development Bank of the Philippines.

The Chambers will provide a feedback mechanism which would bring up problems affecting Mindanao's economy.

The LBP and DBP, both government financing institutions, will be engaged to ensure that the processing and release of loans for  qualified small and medium enterprises would be facilitated.

The idea of easing up restrictive policies and operations was adopted by MinDA following the decision of the Malaysian government to lift the ban on the use of non-conventional vessels, specifically the Philippine wooden boats, from plying the route between Mindanao and the trading posts of Sabah.

The lifting followed representations made by MinDA and other government agencies who are part of the BIMP-EAGA for leniency on the imposition of the ban on wooden boats because it would adversely affect the economy of the Southern Islands, especially during the period of the Pandemic.

This compassionate move by fellow BIMP-EAGA members will greatly benefit the traders in the southern islands who for ages had been trading with their relatives based in Sabah.

It was because of this development and the hardships faced by truckers due to the seemingly unresolvable congestion at the Matnog Port in Sorsogon which causes severe disruption in the supply chain, that MinDA came up with the idea of forming the Economic Recovery Facilitation Council.

During the Face-to-Face and Virtual Meeting on March 31, restrictive policies which adversely affect the economic recovery of Mindanao will be addressed and resolved.

MinDA will also establish a 24/7 Command Center which would receive complaints and reports on activities which would hamper Mindanao's capability to immediately rebuild its economy.

#GovernanceIsCommonSense!
#KungGustoMaramingParaan!

(Photos were downloaded from public websites.)


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Press Release: A groundbreaking ceremony was held earlier this afternoon, March 24, for the construction of a multi-purpose building worth Php 120 million to be utilized as the city's New Convention Center. It is located on an 11-hectare property of LGU-Ormoc in Brgy. Juaton, this city.

Contract cost for phase 1 is around Php 48,757,225.23, which will include the construction of the foundation of the main building where a proposed basketball court with bleachers will be located.

Meanwhile, contract cost for phase 2 is Php 71,281,413.09, which will include the construction of the columns.

Funding for the project will accordingly be derived from the 2020 General Appropriations Act (GAA) through the efforts of Congresswoman Lucy Torres-Gomez of Leyte 4th District, Ormoc City Mayor Richard l. Gomez and the Ormoc Development Team (ODT).

Implementing agency is the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Leyte 4th District Engineering Office spearheaded by District Engineer Arnaldo Bonifacio.

This convention center will be another "first" in the city of beautiful people.


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Press Release
The City Government of Maasin, headed by our City Mayor Nacional V. Mercado, which was represented by Atty. Romeo Geniston – City Administrator, thru the City Agriculture's Office, conducted an Urban Mushroom Production and Processing Training under the Bayanihan II Urban Agriculture (UA) Program and High-Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP) of the Department of Agriculture.

Mushroom culture has been gaining popularity in the Philippines and the demand continuously increases locally and abroad. It is suitable for growing in limited spaces, can be grown whole year-round, and it is effective in utilizing wastes abundant in urban areas such as coffee grinds, sawdust, woodchip, and compost.

The following will be provided under this component:
a. Distribution of mushroom bags;
b. Provision of sterilizing drums and other production equipment;
c. Establishment of mushroom house, if necessary;
d. Provision of processing and packaging equipment; and
e. Other relevant and necessary inputs and support services.

Present during the training were Regional HVCDP Focal Person - Romeo G. Delmo, Provincial Agriculturist - Myrna Bacala and our Supervising City Agriculturist - Virgilia Barrientos.

With this, the City Government of Maasin is encouraging the proponents to fully support the implementation of this program to further establish a resilient food system through Urban Farming.


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PPA PRESS RELEASE
24 March 2021

AMID PANDEMIC, PPA RAISES BILLIONS IN DIVIDEND REMITTANCE, HIKES REMITTANCE TO SUPPORT COVID-19 RESPONSE

MANILA—Despite facing difficulties posed by the pandemic, the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) managed to collect billions of pesos in dividend remittance to the national government for fiscal year 2020.

And while existing law mandates PPA to give at least 50% of its net income annually to the government, PPA General Manager Jay Daniel R. Santiago said the PPA Board has approved the initiative to give 56% of its net income for 2020 to the national coffers to assist the government in its COVID-19 response.

"We anticipate that the fight against this global health emergency is a long and winding road. As a response, we are increasing our dividend to P3.541 billion representing 56% of PPA's 2020 net income to help (the) government in its fight against COVID-19," GM Santiago said.

"This is just one of the ways that the agency is looking at, with the guidance of Department of Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade, as we continue to veer away from the clutches of COVID-19," Santiago explained.

Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade said the hike in PPA's dividend remittance will help enable the government to procure the needed doses of COVID-19 vaccines as well as provide assistance to the vulnerable sectors of society.

For 2020, the PPA posted a net income after tax of P6.138 billion, which is 16% below its 2019 figure primarily because of the pandemic. Compared to the target, the amount is above the target of P5.557 billion.

"The decision of the PPA to increase the amount of its dividend remittance to the Bureau of the Treasury is a shining example of Bayanihan spirit. Dividend remittances from government agencies help sustain the government's efforts to contain the spread of COVID-19. These remitted amounts to the Bureau of the Treasury will help in the procurement of the life-saving vaccines, as well provide the most vulnerable sectors of society with aid and financial support," said Secretary Tugade. 

"It is in this light that I am calling on government agencies under the DOTr, to help the government sustain the momentum in its fight against COVID-19 by properly remitting their dividend to the national treasury," Secretary Tugade added.

Meanwhile, the PPA also reported that despite the reduced net earnings for 2020 due to the pandemic, the dividend in review still ranks second highest since the first full year of the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte. The PPA has also not remitted a dividend lower than P3.1 billion.

Since 2016, the PPA has been consistent as the top-performing DOTr agency and was able to remit a total of P17.171 billion in dividend to help in the implementation of various government social and health programs. 

The PPA also posted a total of P14.87 billion in income tax to the Bureau of Internal Revenue since 2016 where the biggest tax paid was recorded in 2018 at a total of P5.90 billion.   

"Even in the midst of the pandemic, we stayed true to our thrust—"Malasakit at Serbisyo and Kabalikat ng Bayan sa Pagbangon". With the constant guidance from Transport Secretary Arthur P. Tugade and with the leadership of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, the country is assured of the progress that the future could offer," Santiago said.


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Press Release
Through the efforts of the City Government of Maasin, headed by our City Mayor Nacional V. Mercado, in partnership with the Provincial Government of Southern Leyte, led by Gov. Damian Mercado, Congressman Roger Mercado and DOLE Secretary Bebot Bello, the parents of child laborers from the following barangays, namely: (a) Brgy. Combado, (b) Brgy. Bato I, and (c) Brgy. Bato II, received tools and jigs today, March 24, 2021 at the Maasin City Gym.

Likewise, the following barangays received the Tulong Panghanapbuhay para sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) Checks:
a. Brgy. San Rafael – rep. by Hon. Danilo Dueñas with a total amount of Php 123,500.00 for the 38 beneficiaries;
b. Brgy. Rizal – rep. by Hon. Junicio Lagutlo with a total amount of Php 65,000.00 for the 20 beneficiaries;
c. Brgy. Laboon – rep. by Hon. Norma Adobas with a total amount of Php 65,000.00 for the 20 beneficiaries; and
d. Brgy. Nasaug – rep. by Hon. Cesar Costillas with a total amount of Php 162,500.00 for the 50 beneficiaries.

Present throughout the event were Henry John Jalbuena – Regional VIII Director of DOLE, Norman Victor Ordiz – Provincial PESO Manager, Rey Francis Tan - PESO Manager, Dahlia Aseo-Gabriana - LEO II, and Maritez Z. Viñas – Chief LEO, DOLE SLFO.


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Press Release: Department of Transportation (DOTr) Assistant Secretary for Project Implementation - Mindanao Cluster Eymard Eje joined Davao City Mayor Sara Z. Duterte in the launching of the Catalunan Grande Route of the Interim Bus System (IBS) yesterday, 23 March at Elenita Heights Subdivision Entrance, Catalunan Grande, Davao City.

The operation of the IBS will pave the way for the implementation of the High Priority Bus System (HPBS) under the Davao Public Transport Modernization Project. 

In his speech, Asec. Eje mentioned that "It has always been the dream of every Filipino to have a safe, secure, and comfortable mode of transportation. So as promised by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, the DOTR, under the firm and resolute leadership of Secretary Arthur P. Tugade, is here to realize that promise".

Aside from Mayor Duterte,  other VIPs who graced the affair include Regional Director Nonito A. Llanos III of LTFRB XI, and Mr. De Carlo "Oyo" Uy, CEO of Metro Shuttle Corporation.

[Photos Courtesy of Asec Eymard Eje and LTFRB]

#DOTrPH 🇭️ #RoadSectorWorks #BUILDBUILDBUILD


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Gov. Edwin Ongchuan approves PNC resolution granting benefits to barangay nutrition scholars

Catarman, Northern Samar - Governor Edwin Onchuan approved the resolution of the Provincial Nutrition Council to institutionalize the Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNS) in the First Quarter Meeting of the Council today, March 24.

The move which was supported by SP Member Dr. Mary Ann Avalon seeks to ensure the continuity of benefits and incentives given to barangay nutrition scholars as well as to recognize outstanding performance and services.

The resolution recommended the payment of BNS monthly allowance at P300 and an additional incentive which amount will depend on the performance of the BNS: P100 if one has a satisfactory performance, P200 for very satisfactory performance, and P300 for outstanding performance.

Moreover, the resolution supported the grant of other benefits to BNS who perform their duties actively and regularly as certified by the Nutrition Action Officer, midwife and/or the Punong Barangay which include:

1. Loyalty Incentive:
        a. 10 years - P1,000
        b. 20 years - P2,000
        c. 30 years - P3,000
        d. 40 years - P4,000

2. PhilHealth Insurance Coverage
3. Medical and Dental Benefits
4. Free Legal Assistance
5. Barangay Nutrition Scholars Convention

The resolution will be endorsed to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan for the enactment of the corresponding ordinance granting benefits to all BNS in the province.

https://www.facebook.com/250689048371168/posts/3561986073908099/


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The City Government of Maasin, headed by our City Mayor Nacional V. Mercado, extends our heartfelt gratitude to the Southern Leyte State University-Maasin City Campus (SLSU-MCC) for this Plaque of Appreciation.

The 70,000 square-meter lot donation will be of great use for the new soon-to-rise SLSU-MCC situated at Brgy. Tamis, Maasin City.

Rest assured that we will continue to support all your programs and activities for we are committed to give priority for quality education.


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By Manny Piñol
Gov't can't appear helpless!

MATNOG LOGJAM CONTINUES;
NO IMMEDIATE SOLUTION SEEN

The chaos at the Port of Matnog in Sorsogon, a vital link in the logistical network which connects Mindanao, Eastern Visayas and Luzon, has gotten worse.

In spite of the series of appeals and social media postings on the problems encountered by truckers and private motorists who had to wait for several days before they could be accommodated in the few ferry boats crossing the San Bernardino Channel between Sorsogon and Samar, there seems to end in sight.

I would like to apologize and beg for understanding but I have to bring the Matnog Port Problem in the limelight again because of two reasons:

1. Many of the stranded truckers actually are the ones bringing Mindanao's goods to Luzon and critical supplies, including medical items in preparation for the COVID 19 vaccination, on the way back;

2. I am part of this government and the inaction by people who are supposed to handle this is making us in government look like useless deadwoods who could not address simple problems like a port congestion.

Last week, following a post I made on the chaotic situation at Matnog, an official of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) posted what she said was the outcome of the meeting of an inter-agency task group handling the problem.

Three problems were pointed out as the cause of the chaos:

1) Harsh sea conditions;
2) Shortage of vessels servicing the route;
3.) Issue on scalpers/corruption involving queueing of trucks outside port premises, which is under the jurisdiction of the Provincial Police, and not under the DOTr nor the PPA.

This is a pathetic "wash your hands" and finger-pointing exercise.

Pati dagat nasisi. Hindi naman araw-araw masama ang panahon.

The question that should be asked is: Since the problems have been identified, what actions have been done?

If there is a shortage of commercial vessels servicing the area, why don't we call in the Philippine Navy and help diffuse the problem?

Or engage other maritime companies to take over the route and punish the existing ferry operators for violating their CPCs.

The issue of scalpers and corruption is a very simple problem but there is a need to put somebody on top of the whole thing to call the shots.

The video that I attached to this post today was taken only three days ago and the sources revealed to me that the going rate now for truckers to be accommodated is P10,000 per truck, of which only P5,000 will be covered by receipts.

I call on the agencies involved in the Matnog Port operations to handle this problem because this is affecting our economic recovery in Mindanao.

This is hurting our food producers and suppliers and in the end the Metro Manila consumers will also suffer because of higher prices.

Most of all, we cannot allow this to continue because it would result in people losing trust and confidence in government's capability to protect them and safeguard their interests.

Government is mighty and it is the great equalizer.

But government's righteous power could only be exercised if we in government are aware of our legal duties and moral obligations.

Let us do something about the Matnog Problem now!

#GovernmentIsVeryPowerful!
#GovernmentMustProtectPeople!

(This video taken three days ago was forwarded to me by a respected businessman in Mindanao who said his truck drivers had to shell out P10,000 each to be accommodated.)


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Press Release: Speech of Hon. Loren Legarda
Deputy Speaker
Representative, Lone District of Antique
House of Representatives

Fisheries Industry Forum 2021
UP Visayas College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences
23 March 2021

Dr. Clement C. Camposano, Chancellor, UP Visayas; Mr. Phillip L. Ong, Chairman of Santeh Feeds Corporation; Atty. Gloria E. Ramos of Oceana Philippines; Ms. Ma. Flora Monica Tejas-Belinario of RARE Philippines; Prof. Encarnacion Emilia S. Yap, Dean of the College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences; the faculty staff, students, stakeholders, and partner institutions who are joining today's event, good morning to all of you.

It is a great honor to be part of this forum, which coincides with the 48th Foundation Day of the College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, and the 74th anniversary of the UP Presence in Iloilo.

Being a province with rich marine resources and with majority of its residents who are dependent on the sea for their livelihood, Antique's fishing or aquaculture production continues to be the main source of income for Antiquenos who live in the 15 coastal municipalities of this province.

Despite the importance of the Philippines' coastal fishing sector, and local government support for fishers' preferential access to coastal waters, the small-scale fishers are among the poorest and most marginalized people in the country, facing threats posed by the changing climate.

Climate change is taking its toll on both people and nature. With it happening at an unprecedented pace, scientists predict that the state of the seas and oceans will worsen in the coming years, causing damage to marine animals, coral reefs, mangrove forests, and seagrass beds that support coastal life, and leaving marginalized, small-scale fishing communities and marine-dependent economies to bear the brunt of the impacts.

The COVID-19 also forced us to adapt to the profound changes challenging the social and economic fabric that underpin our communities. While the pandemic and resulting lockdowns caught everyone off-guard, the need to protect and manage coastal resources for food and livelihoods has become ever-more-urgent. Thus, we must step up to ensure a sustainable, equitable, and healthy recovery.

As a means to protect and empower our local fisheries industry, I wish to highlight the measures we are working on to empower and strengthen the community-based coastal fisheries and livelihood management.

In the House of Representatives, I have filed House Bill No. 8263 which seeks to establish a multi-species marine hatchery in the municipality of Tibiao, Antique to streamline the impact of dwindling fish catch, coastal environment rapid degradation, stagnation of aquaculture and unpredictable climatic condition causing diseases occurrence on marine animals.

We also put spotlight on the importance of convergence among government agencies. We are working with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and other agencies for the coastal management and livelihood programs.

Since 2016, we have given thousands of FRP boats and fishing tools, kits, and accessories to 12 municipalities of Antique under the Bangkang Pinoy Program.

I have long supported the conduct of trainings and programs by higher educational institutions in sustaining and ensuring the competitiveness of our fisherfolks.

Last year, we pioneered the extension campus of UP in Barangay Nauring, Pandan, Antique. Concurrent with the construction of the extension campus was the conduct of trainings and activities catered for the fisherfolks. These include:

a. Fisheries Training Needs Assessment (Fisheries TNA)

This TNA aims to identify desired capabilities and to determine training needs to supplement current capabilities of local government units, fisherfolk and fisherfolk organizations, academe, and other organizations in the Province of Antique.

Among training needs identified are: Policy training (including governance); Fisheries post-harvest and processing; Coastal Resource Management (CRM) implementation; and Alternative livelihood training especially for women/wives

b. Developing Business Management Skills of Community-Based Fisherfolk Organizations Training

The sessions focused on basic management functions and tools which serve as foundation for the preparation of their business plans. At the end of the sessions, a total of 10 business plans were developed.

c. Technology Transfer of Fisheries Post Harvest Technologies to Fisherfolk Training

This training program was designed to enable fisherfolk to produce fishery products using locally available fish species and materials which can command higher prices than the existing products since the quality and safety are assured. Further, fisherfolk were capacitated to engage in enterprise development through assistance in the initial production and continuous monitoring of the products and of the business, and

d. Development of Flexible Learning Materials for Fisheries Higher Education Institutions

This activity was a collaboration between the UPV - College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences and the University of Antique. The project aimed to develop flexible learning materials that can be used by the fisheries higher education institutions in Antique (as target beneficiaries) and other provinces in region which is particularly relevant considering that face-to-face teaching had been suspended and schools and universities had resorted to remote learning.

On behalf of my fellow Antiqueños, we are grateful for this partnership with UP Visayas in order to complement the other efforts that we have initiated to help the fishing communities in Antique.  Aside from the programs under BFAR, we also developed our local ports and established community fish landing.  In partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry under their Shared Service Facilities program, we helped various livelihood organizations to learn new techniques and methods for fish processing so that they can come up with new food products out of their catch and which they can market and promote through the regular trade fairs that we have also helped organize together with DTI and the Department of Tourism.

Our fisherfolk provide food on our table, yet they remain among the poorest in our communities. This is why through all these programs, I wanted to help address the needs and concerns of our fisherfolk and, by doing so, sustain the progress we have achieved in the fisheries sector.

I may not be physically present, but rest assured that my commitment to serve and to help our fisherfolk will never falter. As Antique's Representative, I will make sure that the needs of my kasimanwa will always come first and I will do everything in my capacity to meet them.

Closing

In closing, I laud the University of the Philippines Visayas, particularly the College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences for facilitating this forum, and for providing scientific and technical conferences, trainings, and other capacity building activities that will greatly benefit not only the fisherfolks in the province, but the whole region and country as well.

I would like to also laud the women who are taking leadership roles in the fisheries sector and helping communities sustain the livelihoods in the coastal communities.

Women play a crucial role throughout the fish value chain as laborers and entrepreneurs, but their participation is often not recognized. In reality, women play a wide range of roles in small-scale fisheries, from processing seafood to designing marine reserves.

Again, congratulations to all of you and Happy Foundation Day! Duro guid na salamat!

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News Release: ASEAN maritime administrations tackle Covid's impact on marine environment

The recent Extraordinary High-Level Regional Meeting (EHLRM) on the Marine Environment Protection of the Southeast Asian Seas (MEPSEAS) Project hosted by the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) tackled the impact of the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic in their efforts to protect the marine environment in the ASEAN region.

The EHLRM, a meeting of officials of maritime administrations of International Maritime Organization (IMO) member countries in the ASEAN region, met with MEPSEAS Project representatives via video conference on March 17 and reviewed the changes in the project's operations due to the pandemic.

As the chairman of the meeting, Marina Administrator Robert Empedrad stressed the commitment of the IMO Member States in the region in protecting the marine environment despite the unprecedented challenges brought by the pandemic to the maritime industry.

Story at https://www.manilatimes.net/2021/03/24/business/maritime-business/asean-maritime-administrations-tackle-covids-impact-on-marine-environment/854663/

#DOTrPH
#MARINAPH
#MaritimeSectorWorks

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𝗣𝗛𝗜𝗟𝗜𝗣𝗣𝗜𝗡𝗘 𝗖𝗨𝗦𝗧𝗢𝗠𝗦 𝗠𝗢𝗗𝗘𝗥𝗡𝗜𝗭𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡 𝗣𝗥𝗢𝗚𝗥𝗔𝗠

Press Releaelse: As part of the Bureau of Customs 10 Point Priority Program, the Philippine Customs Modernization Program (PCMP) is set to launch on 26 March 2021. A virtual ceremony will be conducted to be attended by the members of the Project Steering Committee composed of Department of Finance, Bureau of Customs, Department of Budget & Management, Department of Trade & Industry, Department of Agriculture, Food & Drug Administration, Philippine Ports Authority, and Philippine Economic Zone Authority.

The project is undertaken in line with the continuous efforts of the agency to be a modernized customs administration at par with global standards.

With the support of the World Bank Group, the PCMP will focus on transitioning from a largely manual and paper-based organization to a modernized Bureau of Customs, achieving global standards and full modernization by 2024.


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JAPAN-BIMP-EAGA INVESTMENT. The Japanese Consulate, in partnership with the Mindanao Development Authority, will be hosting the first Brunei Darussalam Indonesia Malaysia Philippines-East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA)-Japan Investment Seminar in the city tomorrow to provide an opportunity for the Mindanao stakeholders to promote and share the essence of the sub-regional economic cooperation to the Japanese community. Promoting BIMP-EAGA to the Japanese community, especially the government and investment sector, helps the sub-region's socioeconomic recovery from the global pandemic that we are currently facing. The event via the Zoom platform will also be streamlined via MinDA's Facebook page.


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News Release: The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is set to build additional stations and sub-stations in Malimono and Socorro in Surigao del Norte in a bid to strengthen maritime law enforcement in the area.

The construction of an additional station, according to the PCG statement, was made possible after the municipality of Malimono donated a 250 square-meter land area located in Punta Beach, Barangay Tinago, Malimono, Surigao del Norte.

PCG Station Surigao del Norte Commander Elaine Pangilinan and Malimono Mayor Wallace Sinaca have signed the deed of donation on March 17.

Meanwhile, Pamosaingan Barangay Captain Leo Faron has approved the Coast Guard's utilization of a 350-square-meter lot located in Purok 5, Barangay Pamosaingan, Socorro, Surigao del Norte.

PCG District Northeastern Mindanao Commodore Inocencio C Rosario Jr. and Faron have signed the deed of donation on March 12.

The Coast Guard said the construction of additional stations will govern and protect the waters of Caraga region.

READ MORE: https://mb.com.ph/2021/03/22/ph-coast-guard-stations-to-rise-in-surigao-del-norte/

#DOTrPH   #CoastGuardPH #MaritimeSectorWorks


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MALASAKIT HELP DESK STATUS REPORT: A total of 58 (LSIs) manifested passengers arrived at the Cagayan de Oro Port and were assisted by the MARINA Regional Office 10 in coordination with the CDO Port Humanitarian Task Force. The passengers were on board the vessel MV "Trans Asia 19" which arrived at 06:05 am today, 23 March 2021 coming from Tagbilaran, Bohol.

Passengers were medically profiled and assisted to the holding area, where they will be accommodated by service vehicles provided by their LGUs.

Staff and personnel of the Inter-Agency Task Force who were present to assist passengers made sure to adhere to the standard health and safety protocols to prevent the transmission of COVID-19.

The CDO Port Humanitarian Task Force is composed of the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Department of Health (DOH), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Tourism (DOT), Office of Civil Defense (OCD), Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), Philippine National Police (PNP), LGUs, and the maritime police and shipping companies.

#DOTrPH
#MARINAPH
#MaritimeSectorWorks

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#READ: STATEMENT OF THE OFFICE OF MAYOR ALFRED ROMUALDEZ ON HIS INOCULATION OF THE SINOVAC VACCINE

We confirm that Mayor Alfred Romauldez has been inoculated with the Sinovac vaccine. The vaccine was administered under the protocols of the Department of Health. The Mayor understands the sensitivities of the general public, in particular the national audience. However, that Mayor Romualdez selfishly put health workers and his constituents' welfare aside by "skipping the line" is far from the truth.

Taken against the backdrop of the existing distrust and loss of confidence brought about by the Dengvaxia issue which was further exacerbated by the overblown yet unfounded concerns questioning the efficacy and safety of the Chinese vaccine Sinovac, we would like to state for the record that Mayor Romualdez volunteered to be publicly vaccinated with Sinovac vaccine in order to boost confidence in the vaccination program of the government. At the time the vaccination was done, health workers were hesitant to avail of Sinovac, opting instead to pass and wait for other Western-made brands. All this much ado about something that was well-intentioned merely results in the breaking down of the confidence in the vaccination program of the government and in the vaccines.

The Mayor, as the local chief executive has the duty and responsibility first to his constituents - to ensure that programs of the government are executed in the most efficient and effective manner. His vaccination with the Sinovac vaccine to encourage more people to avail of Sinovac is consistent with this sworn duty. Moreover, he did not bump off anyone in the order of priority to cause disadvantage to health workers since there was a resistance to inoculation with Sinovac and thusly, he was qualified to be vaccinated as an LGU official.

Finally, the Mayor calls on unity in the face of adversity. As a seasoned chief executive, he knows there will always be naysayers and those critical of his actions, but Mayor Romualdez has time and again demonstrated his sincere dedication to the City and its constituency. He will do what must be done to promote and protect the interest of the people of Tacloban who have elected him to office. We hope people can set aside negativity and contribute gainfully towards ending this pandemic by increasing confidence in the vaccination program and the vaccines instead of eroding the public's trust and engaging in premature politicking.

#TacTodayBantayCOVID19 #TacToday #TaclobanToday


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News Release: Ormoc City Mayor Richard I. Gomez had a brief meeting with Joel Mendoza of Business, Permits and Licensing Office (BPLO), and PCOL Ramil Ramirez of the Ormoc City Police Office, at the City Mayor's Office (CMO), today, March 23.

The trio discussed the "booming" and now tourist-attractive diversion road. They agreed that vendors on the diversion road should be spaced 10 meters apart to keep things organized and to avoid crowding. Space allocation, too" shall be on a "first come, first served" basis.

Furthermore, the city government is encouraging the existing vendors in diversion road to follow the markers that have been placed on site.

CMO Executive Assistant, Albert Patrick B. Deen and Executive Secretary, Ma. Victoria Lyra P. Dela Cerna, DPA were also present during the discussion.


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DOMESTIC DEVELOPMENT INVESTMENTS. According to MinDA Chairman Secretary Emmanuel Piñol, it is necessary to look anew on investment to rebuild the economy from the pandemic's adverse impact. "We consider the development of local industries as fundamental to economic recovery. Investments in local industries or the Domestic Development Investments, which target local industries utilizing available raw materials and human resources, invigorate the domestic economy with foreign and local investment funds," said Secretary Piñol. More on BIMP-EAGA investment opportunities will be discussed in the BIMP-EAGA-Japan Investment Seminar tomorrow, 24 March 2021, at 2:00 PM via Zoom.

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Press Release
BATANG AMAZONA SA ILOILO, SUMUKO DAHIL SA NARANASANG PANGGAGAHASA NG NPA

IN THE NEWS: Ex-New People's Army (NPA) rebel Nena (not her real name) said she was sexually abused by comrades. She escaped on March 18 and sought help from the Philippine Army's 61st Infantry Battalion (61IB) based in Miag-ao, Iloilo.

Nena revealed that nine of 11 female rebels – mostly minors – in their group were now pregnant due to sexual abuse. She said that she also suffered extreme hunger, two days at least. They used to gallop "one place after another just to hide" from government forces.

The rebels promised to send her to school and assured her of safety and security. She also revealed that female members have been serving as "cooks" of their senior comrades. They were also told to fetch water and do other chores.

READ MORE: http://bit.ly/397hPaP

#NSC #NSCNews #NSCGov #CPP #NPA #NTFELCAC #EO70 #GoodGovernance #DismissDisinformation #FactsNotFiction #ActivismIsNotTerrorism #CounteringTerrorism #MakabayanBloc #KabataanPartylist #Gabriela #BAYAN #LFS #LeagueOfFilipinoStudents #AllianceOfConcernedTeachers #ACT #HOOC #HandsOffOurChildren #StudentsNotSoldiers #InformInformInform


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By Asec Goddes Hope Libiran
Sa mga nagsasabi na palpak at wala daw nagawa ang administrasyong ito, allow me, please, to remind these to you:

1. WALA NANG LAGLAG-BALA SA NAIA

2. WALA NANG UNLOADING INCIDENTS SA MRT-3. BAGO NA LAHAT NG RILES, BAGO NA LAHAT NG AIRCON, SMOOTH AT MABILIS NA ANG TAKBO NG TREN

3. HINDI NA PAPEL LANG ANG DRIVER'S LICENSE— CARD NA, AT VALID PA FOR ATLEAST 5 YEARS (dati 3 years lang)

4. DATI, WALANG PLAKANG INILALABAS PARA SA LAHAT NG URI NG SASAKYAN. KASO DITO, KASO DOON. Ngayon, MAHIGIT 3.2 MILLION PAIRS OF PLATES NA ANG NAI-PRODUCE AT NA-DISTRIBUTE NG LTO SA MGA 4-WHEELED VEHICLES. Ongoing naman ang production ng mga motorcycle plates alinsunod sa bagong batas.

5. Mula sa walong ( railway contracts lamang noong June 2016, naisara ng DOTr ang taong 2020 na may 32 RAILWAY CONTRACTS, at maaari pa itong madagdagan ng 20 pa na kontrata bago matapos ang termino ni Pangulong Duterte at Secretary Tugade.

Narito ang ilan sa mga LONG-DELAYED PROJECTS na ngayon ay ginagawa na:

- 'Yung METRO MANILA SUBWAY NA UNANG PLINANO NOONG 1973, matapos ang 40 years at anim (6) na administrasyon, ginagawa na ngayon

- 'Yung LRT-1 CAVITE EXTENSION na na-aprubahan ng NEDA noong pang August 25, 2000, kung saan walang ni isang poste ang naitayo noong June 2016, full swing na ang construction

- 'Yung MRT-7 na nai-submit sa DOTC noon pang August 27, 2001, kung saan wala ring naitayong ni isang poste noong June 2016, full swing na rin ang construction ngayon

- 'Yung MANILA TO CLARK RAILWAY na na-plano noon pang 1993, kung saan walang ni isang kontrata o anumang physical progress noong June 2015, full swing na rin ang construction

- 'Yung MINDANAO RAILWAY PROJECT na na-conceive pa noong 1950, kung saan noong June 2016 ay wala man lang completed feasibility study, NEDA Board approval, o kontrata, investment approved na ngayon

- 'Yung COMMON STATION na ilang taon ding hindi umusad, full swing na ang konstruksyon ngayon

***TAKE NOTE: Ang investment na isinasagawa ngayon ng BUILD BUILD BUILD PROGRAM sa Railways Sector ay HIGIT NA MALAKI kumpara sa kabuuang railway investments ng Pilipinas IN THE LAST 50 YEARS COMBINED.

6. Nakapagtapos na ang DOTr at CAAP ng 121 Airport Projects simula July 2016. Kasama na dyan ang Bohol-Panglao International Airport, Mactan-Cebu, at termina 2 ng Clark. Ang Bicol International Airport naman na tatlong beses na nagkaroon ng geoundbreaking ceremony sa loob ng 11 taon bago ang June 2016, matatapos na ngayong taon.

7. Dati, TATLO lang ang air traffic radars ng Pilipinas. Ibig sabihin, 30% lamang ng kabuuang airspace natin ang nakikita at namo-monitor ng Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines. Noong January 2018, naitayo ang Communications Navigation Surveillance / Air Traffic Management System, matapos ang mahigit isang dekadang delay. Dahil sa CNS/ATM, NADAGDAGAN TAYO NG SAMPUNG AIR TRAFFIC RADAR na nagbigay sa atin ng kapasidad na ma-monitor ang 100% ng Philippine air space.

8. Dati, sira-sira ang mga pantalan. 'Yung ibang nasira ng Bagyong Yolanda, naiwang nakatiwangwang. Ngayon, mula July 2016, nakapagtapos na ang DOTr at PPA ng 424 seaport projects sa buong bansa, kasama na dyan ang pinakamalaking Port Passenger Terminal Building sa Pilipinas na matatagpuan sa Cagayan de Oro Port, pati na rin ang mga pantalan sa Ormoc, Tacloban, at Bohol na matagal nang nasira ng bagyo at lindol.

9. Noong 2016, wala pang 50% ang operational efficiency ng mga light house sa mga dalampasigan. Kulang na kulang sa navigational aid ang ating mga marinero. Ngayon, naiakyat na ng Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) sa mahigit 90% ang operational efficiency ng mga light houses.

10. Dati, mas mabilis pa ang motor boat ng mga pirata o terorista sa ilang mga motor boats ng Coast Guard. Ngayon, MODERNO na at HIGH-TECH pa ang mga maritime at aerial assets ng PCG. Nagagamit nila ang mga ito hindi lamang sa pag-tanod sa ating mga baybayin, kundi pati na rin sa pagliligtas ng mga kababayan nating biktima ng mga aksidente sa karagatan, ng bagyo, sunog, baha, at iba pang uri ng kalamidad.

Marami pang iba. 'Yan lang po muna ang masusulat ko ngayon. To be continued.

Good night, everyone. God bless us all.

#UNITEnotDIVIDE #CLARIFYnotCONFUSE #DOTrPH #HealAsOne


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Press Release: Sec Carlito Galvez, NTF against COVID-19 Chief Implementer and Vaccine Czar clarified during a press briefing on Tuesday that the national government is not requiring private sectors to donate 50% of their purchased vaccines to the government. He added that this arrangement is only applicable to vaccine deal with AstraZeneca which the pharmaceutical company requires.

Watch the Press Briefing here:
https://fb.watch/4pEIN7h97V/

#COVID19PH #WeHealAsOnePH #COVIDvaccinePH #ExplainExplainExplain


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The Guiuan Gazette: The Guiuan National High School family sincerely condoles the bereaved family, relatives and friends of Ma'am Monica Belitor Gagatiga. She has proven her untiring commitment and dedication to the institution for 23 years of service as educator. We have lost another pillar in science.

We will missed you Ma'am. Our ardent prayers for the eternal repose of your soul.

Rest now in God's haven. You will always be remembered.

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News Brief: Nagsagawa ng relief operation ang Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) District Southwestern Mindanao para matulungan ang humigit-kumulang 400 pamilya na nawalan ng tirahan dahil sa sunog na naganap sa Campo Islam, Baliwasan Seaside, Zamboanga City noong Sabado, ika-20 ng Marso 2021.

Liban sa pagkain, namahagi rin ang mga PCG personnel ng purified drinking water at malinis na damit.

#DOTrPH ️
#CoastGuardPH
#MaritimeSectorWorks

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PCG ACTIVATES TWO STATIONS IN MISAMIS ORIENTAL

Press Release: To establish an effective command and control, strengthen visibility, and improve response time during calamities, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has officially activated two stations in Misamis Oriental today, 23 March 2021.

In a low-key ceremony held at Barangay Poblacion, Talisayan, Misamis Oriental, the Coast Guard Station (CGS) Misamis Oriental under the Coast Guard District Northern Mindanao (CGDNM) has been divided into two stations — CGS Western Misamis Oriental and CGS Northeastern Misamis Oriental — to efficiently cover the first and second congressional districts of the province.

Captain Anuar Inidal has been designated as the Station Commander of the CGS Western Misamis Oriental, while Lieutenant Commander Patrick John Cabasag is now the Station Commander of the CGS Northeastern Misamis Oriental.

Aside from CGDNM Commander, Commodore Agapito Bibat who presided the ceremony, Congressman Christian Unabia of the First District of Misamis Oriental and Talisayan Mayor Rommel Maslog also graced the event.

Health and safety protocols were strictly observed during the activity.

[Photos Courtesy of the Coast Guard District Northern Mindanao]

#DOTrPH ️
#CoastGuardPH
#MaritimeSectorWorks

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NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC
Seafarers with scheduled appointments starting tomorrow, 24 March 2021, until Friday, 26 March 2021, at the MARINA Satellite Office at the POEA Building in Mandaluyong City, may proceed to either at the MARINA Satellite Office in SM Manila or the MARINA Satellite Office in PITX for the processing or release of their documents.

Offices at the POEA will be closed on the days mentioned above to give way to disinfection as a preventive measure against COVID-19.

#DOTrPH
#MARINAPH
#MaritimeSectorWorks

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MARINA Press Release
22 March 2021

PHILIPPINES HOSTS EXTRAORDINARY HIGH-LEVEL REGIONAL MEETING ON MEPSEAS

Bringing together the high-level officials of the maritime administrations of the participating International Maritime Organization (IMO) Member States in the ASEAN region and representatives of the Marine Environment Protection of the Southeast Asian Seas (MEPSEAS) Project's strategic partners, the Philippines, through the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), hosted the Extraordinary High-Level Regional Meeting (EHLRM) on MEPSEAS on 17 March 2021 via video conferencing.

The Philippines as one of the Lead Partnering Countries (LPC) to the MEPSEAS Project, and MARINA being its National Focal Point (NFP), in coordination with IMO, conducted the EHLRM to review the changes in operational modes imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic as well as the next steps and activities to be undertaken in Year 4 of the said project. It also aims to focus on compliance monitoring and enforcement (CME) of the high priority IMO conventions selected by the partnering beneficiary countries.

As the Chair of the said meeting, MARINA Administrator VAdm Robert A Empedrad AFP (Ret) reiterated the commitment of the Member States in protecting the marine environment despite the unprecedented challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic to the maritime industry.

"I am certain there is much to be shared and learned as we strive to face the devastating effects of the COVID-19 virus through shared cooperation. The pandemic notwithstanding, will not deter us as we remain resolute in carrying out the activities as laid down in our respective National Strategic Action Plans (NSAPs)," VAdm Empedrad said.

Dr. Jose Matheickal of the IMO thanked the member countries in considering the solutions for marine environment challenges as a priority.

"The MEPSEAS Project aims to protect the marine environment and the people as well who depend their lives in this industry," Dr. Matheickal highlighted.

During the meeting proper, the IMO Project Coordination Unit (PCU) gave updates on the project, the risk mitigation actions taken and lessons learned in the COVID-19 pandemic. Moreover, the PCU likewise introduced the work plan and future key milestones as member countries move to MEPSEAS Year 4.

Meanwhile, delegates from the participating beneficiary countries reported the development in their scorecards and adoption of their respective NSAPs, including successes and challenges in completing the NAP activities related to the accession of the chosen IMO Conventions.

Assistant Secretary for Maritime of the Department of Transportation (DOTr), VAdm Narciso A Vingson Jr, as Head of the Philippine Delegation, discussed the developments in implementing the International Convention on the Control of Harmful Anti-Fouling Systems in Ships and International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships' Ballast Water and Sediments in the Philippines.

As part of the country's sustainable mechanism, VAdm Vingson mentioned that the country will institutionalize the inter-agency mechanism, strengthen the MARINA Maritime Training Institute, mainstream implementation of Ballast Water Management (BWM) and Anti-fouling Systems (AFS) Conventions into medium-term development plans and existing national action plans, and strengthen partnership with relevant government agencies and institutions.

The MEPSEAS Project is a 4-year project (2018-2021) of the IMO in cooperation with the Norwegian Agency for the Development (NORAD) providing assistance to East Asian countries in ratifying and implementing IMO Instruments for the protection of the marine environment. It also aims to reduce the risks and impacts of environmental issues related to maritime transport in the ASEAN region.

#DOTrPH
#MARINAPH
#MaritimeSectorWorks

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The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) wishes to announce and congratulate the following passers of the Theoretical Examinations for Marine Deck Officers conducted at the MARINA Central Office yesterday, 22 March 2021.

Out of 44 examinees, there were 36 passers with a passing rate of 81.82% — 8 out of 10 passers (80.00%) for deck management level and 28 out of 34 (82.35%) for deck operational level under the new system (MCAS).

Deck Management Level
1. Alcantara, Amiel Fajardo
2. Balili, Carlo Caverte
3. Bondalo, Wencis Stephen Rosales
4. Carmelo, Diovi John Alcancia
5. Conales, John Gaius Daquis
6. Corona, Roniel Magbojos
7. Gardose, Giovanni Fuentes
8. Gorembalem, Freezer Laure

Deck Operational Level
1. Andag, Rolly Joy Villegas
2. Arias, Timothy John Dela Cuesta
3. Baldelovar, Jonathan Rey Palomares
4. Barrieta, John Paul Patricio
5. Biay, Michael Angelo
6. Bulanadi, Lorenz Vallarta
7. Canlas, Crisjan Irvin Peralta
8. De Luna, Niel Arvin Samante
9. Del Campo, Jhon Michael Maquiling
10. Dorado, Jayvee Felipe
11. Elaco, Hanei Jhie Roque
12. Flores, Djordjie Ednel Oldenaria
13. Flores, Peter Vince Escare
14. Gabunilas, Mon Herbert Divinagracia
15. Gatmaitan, Ramon Cruz
16. Igot, Christian Cruz
17. Javier, Javieson William Cuanico
18. Jumalon, Arnel Jay Apigo
19. Llanto, James Wilson Gamil
20. Lumanglas, Karl Reiner Lucero
21. Nogueras, Rogie Quilos
22. Pamisa, Rey John Loquillano
23. Pangilinan, Sean Michael Fumokao
24. Quezon, Ian Paul Alcantara
25. Soriano, Shem Allain Lambojon
26. Taan, Jezreel Reyes
27. Tabali, Jonathan Panopio
28. Trillana, Philip Lorence Tomol

Successful examinees are advised to apply for their practical assessments through their MISMO Accounts.

#DOTrPH
#MARINAPH
#MaritimeSectorWorks


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News Release: To ensure the safety of the riding public in marine transportation while guaranteeing their compliance to the COVID-19 health protocols, MARINA Regional Office 8 (MRO – Maasin Satellite Unit conducted vessel monitoring at the Port of Padre Burgos, Southern Leyte today, 22 March 2021.

A good number of guests and delegates were expected to arrive at the said port and ply to Limasawa Island, Southern Leyte to attend the celebration of the 500 Years of Christianity in the Philippines.

It was observed that port traffic is generally peaceful and in good order. Only five (5) motorbancas were given special permit to ferry the passengers and only 300 pilgrims were allowed for onboard daily.

#DOTrPH
#MARINAPH
#MaritimeSectorWorks


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Press Release: Ormoc City Mayor Richard I. Gomez attended a coordination meeting this morning, March 22.

The meeting was presided by Vice Mayor Leo Carmelo Locsin, Jr. and was attended by designated representatives from ENRO, CAO, City Fisheries Division, and City Veterinarian's Office.

The matter under discussion was regarding updates and concerns on the scope of the organizations present as well as possible solutions and alternatives to the issues and matters that were raised or have been raised in the past.

The few items the meeting covered were:

- Illegal fishing in Ormoc Bay. It was discussed that if fisherfolks from Albuera, Leyte will not cease to fish in the bays of Ormoc, the matter will be brought up to DILG, as supported by DILG Memorandum 2018-59.

- The mismanagement of Fisheries Management Teams from other municipalities of their fishermen, who do illegal fishing within Ormoc Bay, was also discussed in terms of legal and immidiate actions.

- Cases of death caused by being tested positive for rabies, mostly by stray dogs, who were not able to receive an anti-rabies vaccine.

- From ENRO, they raised the concern about residents, and/or companies, who do quarrying and the mining of sand and gravel in Barangay Cabingtan, which have alarmed them as the said village is prone to landslide, and mining would make it even more hazardous.

- The follow-up on the cages that were asked from the LGU that would serve as a temporary space for wildlife animals before they are set free.


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News Release: For easy reference, here are the official websites and social media pages of the DILG Regional Offices and the Ministry of the Interior and Local Government in BARMM:

DILG-NCR (Metro Manila)
Website: https://ncr.dilg.gov.ph/
FB page: https://web.facebook.com/dilgncr/

DILG-CAR (Cordillera Administrative Region)
Website: https://car.dilg.gov.ph/
FB page: https://web.facebook.com/dilgcarregionaloffice

DILG Region I (Ilocos Region)
Website: http://region1.dilg.gov.ph/
FB page: https://web.facebook.com/dilgregion1

DILG Region II (Cagayan Valley)
Website: http://region2.dilg.gov.ph/
FB page: https://web.facebook.com/dilgr02

DILG Region III (Central Luzon)
Website: http://region3.dilg.gov.ph/
FB page: https://web.facebook.com/DILGCentralLuzonOfficialPage

DILG Region IV-A (Calabarzon)
Website: http://news.calabarzon.dilg.gov.ph/
FB page: https://web.facebook.com/dilgr4a/

DILG Mimaropa Region
Website: http://www.mimaropa.dilg.gov.ph/
FB page: https://web.facebook.com/dilgmimaropa

DILG Region V (Bicol Region)
Website: http://region5.dilg.gov.ph/
FB page: https://web.facebook.com/DILGRegion5

DILG Region VI (Western Visayas)
Website: http://www.region6.dilg.gov.ph/
FB page: https://web.facebook.com/dilgregion6

DILG Region VII (Central Visayas)
Website: http://www.dilgregion7.net/
FB page: https://web.facebook.com/DILGR7

DILG Region VIII (Eastern Visayas)
Website: http://region8.dilg.gov.ph/
FB page: https://web.facebook.com/DILGRegion8

DILG Region IX (Zamboanga Peninsula)
Website: http://region9.dilg.gov.ph/
FB page: https://web.facebook.com/Dilg9

DILG Region X (Northern Mindanao)
Website: http://region10.dilg.gov.ph/
FB page: https://web.facebook.com/dilgx

DILG Region XI (Davao Region)
Website: http://region11.dilg.gov.ph/
FB page: https://web.facebook.com/dilgxi/

DILG Region XII (Soccsksargen)
Website: http://region12.dilg.gov.ph/
FB page: https://web.facebook.com/DILG-Region-XII-241719155841255

DILG Region XIII (Caraga Region)
Website: http://caraga.dilg.gov.ph/
FB page: https://web.facebook.com/dilgcaraga

Ministry of the Interior and Local Government (BARMM)
Website: https://milg.bangsamoro.gov.ph/
FB page: https://web.facebook.com/MILGBangsamoro.
#DILGNatin
#WeAreYourDILG
#beDILGinformed
#MatinoMahusayMaaasahan


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News Release: The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has activated the Coast Guard District Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (CGDBARMM) to enhance maritime law enforcement in the waters of the region.

Led by District Commander, Captain Christopher Meniado, the CGDBARMM will govern the center of commerce, trade, and sea lanes of communication in Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Cotabato City, and Basilan.

The CGDBARMM is the 15th Coast Guard District across the country and the 6th Coast Guard District in the entire region of Mindanao.

FULL STORY HERE: https://mb.com.ph/2021/03/18/barmm-coast-guard-district-activated-to-enhance-maritime-law-enforcement/

#DOTrPH ️
#CoastGuardPH
#MaritimeSectorWorks


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NON-RESIDENTS OF TACLOBAN NEED NOT APPLY ON THE 'BALIK TACLOBAN' WEBSITE

#FAQ: Do I still need to register for the Balik Tacloban Program even if I'm a non-resident of the city and only passing through Tacloban to get to my hometown?

Pakiana: Kinahanglan ko pa ba mag parehistro ha Balik Tacloban website bisan diri ak residente ngan maagi la ak para ngadto hit akon bungto nga uulian?

Answer: NO. Only returning residents of Tacloban City need to apply to the Balik Tacloban website.  Travelers bound to other towns need to apply for a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from their places of destination/travel.   

Baton: Diri na kinahanglan.  Aadto ka makuha hin letter of  acceptance (LOA) ha lugar/bungto nga imo uulian.)

#cmiso #TaclobanSafeCity


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The Department of Tourism - Philippines (DOT) supports the safe reopening of dive establishments to promote local tourism and help travel workers regain their jobs. In line with that, the DOT ensures these destinations are compliant with the protocols and precautionary measures set by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Department of Health (Philippines) (DOH).

To learn more about the Health and Safety Guidelines, kindly visit: http://www.divephilippines.com.ph/

Let's all dive again soon!
#DOTScuba #SafeTrip #ScubaPH


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READ: The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) has put into place additional health and safety protocols amid the rising cases of COVID-19 infection in the country.

PPA Memorandum Circular No. 08-2021 dated 22 March 2021, aims to help government to reduce the COVID-19 cases particularly to and from the National Capital Region (NCR), Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna and Rizal or the now being referred to as NCR Plus Bubble.

Said MC provides that ports under the jurisdiction of the agency shall continue to operate in order to ensure unhampered flow and movement of the local and international supply chains.

It mandates the strict adherance to health and safety protocol against COVID-19 at ports' passenger terminal buildings, facilities and offices including the conduct of frequent disinfection and prohition of entry for individuals exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms.

The MC reiterates that only Authorized Persons Outside Residence (APORs) defined in IATF Resolution No. 104 and DOTr Advisory dated 22 March 2021 shall be allowed into and out the ports managed by PPA.

#MalasakitatSerbisyo
#MaritimeSectorCares
#PPACares
#COVIDlangtoPilipinotayo
#BAHAYmunaBUHAYmuna
#WeHealAsOne


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"And, when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it." —Paulo Coelho, The Alchemist

Press Release: Earlier today at the City Mayor's Office in the New Ormoc City Hall, eight ( Ormoc City Scholars attended the turnover of Laptops from Hon. Mayor Richard I. Gomez, Hon. Congresswoman Lucy Torres-Gomez, and Committee Chairman on Education, Hon. Atty. Nolito Quilang in recognition for their outstanding performances as scholars of the city.

These scholars are all who graduated with Latin Honors for the School Year 2019-2020.

They have shown the rest of the city that anything can be done once the heart is poured into it. Their journey as scholars wasn't as smooth-sailing as it may seem, however, they were able to conquer what hindrances say they could not.

Mayor Gomez invited the scholars to encourage the younger students to work harder, and to be more like them. He left his wishes for the scholars that they may find jobs as soon as they can, and hopefully, it would be better if they found a job in Ormoc so that, according to him, they can build Ormoc together.

Congresswoman Lucy Torres-Gomez also congratulated the outstanding scholars and commended them not only for their efforts in just graduating alone, but according to her, they even took it a milestone away that they even graduated with honors.

She mentioned that whenever they look at their computers, may they be reminded of their hardwork that has paid off during their years of studying. She gave them her words of encouragement that they may pursue the jobs that is best for them, even if it's not in Ormoc, but she reminded them that they may never forget where they came from.

May this serve as an inspiration to our Ormocanon youth that hardwork will never disappoint.

All these wouldn't be possible without the joint efforts of our beloved power-couple, Congresswoman Lucy, and Mayor Richard, and of course, the Committee Chairman on Education, Atty. Nolitz Quilang.

Once again, we congratulate the following scholars who graduated with Latin Honors in SY 2019-2020:

Maricar, Glonielyn P.
Tejano, Rojie C.
Bacus, Aris Benson
Balane, Grace Leigh P.
Hitgano, Joan O.
Laurente, Joan Maurice C.
Mistola, Lizel B.
Velez, Rashyl A.

ORMOC IS SO PROUD OF YOU! Padayon ♡
#TatakOrmocanon


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KNOW YOUR COVID-19 VACCINE: GAMALEYA SPUTNIK V

Information you need to know about the Gamaleya Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine:

How many doses and interval in which each dose is taken;
Storage and cold chain requirements;
How well it will do in preventing symptomatic and severe COVID-19;
Common adverse events you can expect following the latest Phase III clinical trials data;
Serious adverse events you can expect following the latest Phase III clinical trials data; and
Clinical trials data with the inclusion of special populations (i.e. elderly, immunocompromised, etc.)

To know more about the eight ( COVID-19 vaccines on our current portfolio, click this link bit.ly/KnowYourVaccines

#RESBAKUNA
#BIDABakunation
#BIDASolusyonPlus
#ExplainExplainExplain


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University of the Philippines scientists have saved the world's only freshwater sardine locally known as "tawilis" (Sardinella tawilis) from possible extinction.

The Filipino scientists of the UP Los Baños – Limnological Station successfully conserved a number of tawilis away from Taal Lake in Batangas province, where it is known to be endemic, to ensure the survival of the endangered freshwater fish species in the case of a volcanic eruption. - from UP FB page


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Press Release: A simultaneous send-off ceremony for Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) teams was held today, March 22, 2021, at the Northern Samar Police Provincial Office in Catarman.

A total of 214 personnel from the Northern Samar Police Provincial Office (NSPPO), Regional Mobile Force Battalion (RMFB), Special Action Force (SAF), and the 803rd Infantry Brigade (803rd IB) of the Philippine Army underwent CSP Operators Training during the past few months. Personnel will be deployed to the municipalities of Victoria, San Isidro, Lavezares, Catubig, Las Navas, Bobon, Pambujan, Laoang, and San Roque in barangays identified to be affected by insurgency problems with each team staying for 2-3 months or until such time that the areas will be declared clear of insurgency.

https://www.facebook.com/250689048371168/posts/3556621364444570/

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Press Release: Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), represented by Director General, Isidro S. Lapeña, Ph. D., CSEE, spearheaded the launching of Project LAMRAG (Liwanang at Malasakit, Ramdan ang Asenso at Ginhawa) today, March 22, 2021, in partnership with the City Government of Maasin, Provincial Government of Southern Leyte, led by Gov. Damian Mercado and Congressman Roger Mercado. This project will be piloted in the following barangay: (a) Brgy. Bactul I, (b) Brgy. Matin-ao, and (c) Brgy. Baugo.

Project LAMRAG is a program for convergence between the TESDA and the Department of Energy (DOE), together with the member-agencies of the Poverty Reduction, Livelihood, and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) under the Southern Leyte Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist-Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC).

The project aims to provide the necessary skills for the intended beneficiaries in PV Systems Installation NC II, a training program designed to provide the necessary skills in the installation of a photovoltaic system or solar system.

#MaasinAjonay
#Tesda
#ProjectLamrag

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Press Release: "As you enjoy the gifts of the President, as you enjoy the gifts of the Duterte Administration, please make a commitment that you will take care of these ports, you will take care of these gifts, you will take care of these facilities, because as you take care of them, many more will benefit and much more time will be spent by benefitting from, and enjoying these gifts."

With all sincerity and grateful appreciation and recognition of national and local government unity and cooperation, Department of Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade expressed his utmost love and care to the people of Palawan, during the inauguration and blessing of the THREE (3) SEAPORT PROJECTS in the province, namely the Port of San Fernando in El Nido, Port of Bataraza in Brgy. Buliluyan, Bataraza, and Port of Borac in Brgy. Borac in Coron, today, 19 March 2021.

In his most heartwarming speech which drew a standing ovation from the audience, Secretary Tugade underscored the very essence of the ceremony, and that is the fulfillment of the long-awaited dreams of Palawan—enhanced connectivity and mobility.

"Nangarap sila [Palaweños] na dapat magkaroon ng puerto, dapat magkaroon ng connectivity, at dapat magkaroon ng mobility. Ngayong araw na ito, yung pangarap na 'yan ay nagkakatotoo. At, napakagandang pangarap pagka't ngayon 'ho, mag-inauguarate tayo ng hindi isang puerto, hindi dalawa, kundi tatlong puerto—kasagutan sa pangarap ng Palawan," Secretary Tugade said.

He added, "Ang connectivity at mobility na ating kinikilala at binibigyang-buhay, ito ay magbibigay ng ugnayan sa Palawan, hindi lamang sa mga islang nakapaligid dito, ngunit, magkakaroon ng ugnayan—mobility and connectivity—sa Luzon, Visayas, kasama na 'ho ang ASEAN."

The transportation chief likewise emphasized how auspicious and fruitful it is when the national and local government unite and work hand-in-hand, to realize such dreams for the Filipinos and for the country's future.

Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) General Manager Jay Daniel Santiago, meanwhile, announced that there are other port development and improvement projects rolling in other municipalities of Palawan, particularly in Puerto Princesa, Busuanga, Coron, and Aborlan.

"Dito po sa Coron, bagama't nagawa na po yung ating bagong pantalan diyan sa Borac, 'yun pong luma natin na pantalan sa Coron town, ay ii-improve pa po natin 'yan. Kailangan pong ayusin ang Port Operations Building diyan para mas maganda po ang serbisyo ng PPA sa ating port users, at kailangan po continuously ina-upgrade po ang mga pier dahil bugbog po talaga ang mga pantalan sa dami po ng biyahe," GM Santiago cited.

He further added, "Sa Aborlan naman po, ay kung papaano pa po natin mai-improve 'yung ating maliit na pantalan po doon, upang makapagsilbi rin po, hindi lamang po doon sa mangingisda, kundi para masilbihan din po yung mga diretso pong kargamento, as an alternate port po sa Southern Palawan, other than Puerto Princesa."

For his part, Palawan Governor Jose Chaves Alvarez underlined the importance of having political will to attain the successful attainment of various projects, such as the three ports that were inaugurated.

"Kung walang political will galing sa Palawan, walang political will mula sa PPA, at walang political will mula sa isang Secretary [Secretary Tugade] na halos hindi na natutulog [matapos lamang ang proyekto], hindi matatapos ang mga proyekto ni Pangulong Duterte. Ako'y nagpapasalamat kay President Duterte na when he assumed office in 2016, wala na pong tigil ang mga proyekto dito sa Palawan," Governor Alvarez said.

Members of the House of Representatives, as well as the Mayor of El Nido, have also expressed their messages of gratitude to the DOTr, the PPA, and the local government, in fulfilling the much-needed and much-awaited port infrastructure in Palawan.

2nd District Rep. Cyrille Abueg Zaldivar said, "Thank you very much sa ating Secretary Arthur Tugade, na talagang kapag nagsabi po siya na 'Gagawin ko,' ay talagang maisasakatuparan."

Meanwhile, 3rd District Rep. Gil Acosta, Jr. said, "Sec. Art, maraming salamat po at natupad na naman ang isang pangarap ng lalawigan ng Palawan."

Moreover, El Nido Mayor Edna Lim conveyed, "Kami po ay buong pusong nagpapasalamat sa lahat po ng taong tumulong para maidaos ang inauguration na ito."

The completed development projects for the Port of San Fernando are the development of causeway, back-up area, and a reinforced concrete (RC) wharf with RO-RO (roll-on, roll-off) ramps. In Bataraza Port, completed works include the expansion of wharf, back-up area, and port lighting system.

For the Port of Borac, completed projects include the development of the port's back-up area, and the installation of mooring and fender system.

With the developments of the 3 port infrastructure, realized by the DOTr, under the resolute leadership of Secretary Tugade, and the PPA, headed by GM Santiago, connectivity and mobility shall be enhanced in Palawan, and the sea-riding public and port users may now experience a comfortable and convenient maritime travel.

These projects shall likewise boost economic growth, not just in the province of Palawan, but in the whole MIMAROPA Region, and the entire Philippine archipelago.

Othe officials who were also present during the event are DOTr Undersecretary for Finance Garry De Guzman, Undersecretary for Administrative Services Artemio Tuazon Jr., Undersecretary for Railways Timothy John Batan, Chief of Staff/Assistant Secretary for Procurement and Project Implementation Giovanni Lopez, Assistant Secretary for Road Transport and Infrastructure Mark Steven Pastor, Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) General Manager Ed Monreal, Assistant Secretary for Communications and Commuter Affairs Goddes Hope Libiran, and PPA Port Management Office - Palawan Port Manager Elizalde Ulson.

#DOTrPH #PPAworks #PartnersForChange #MaritimeSectorWorks  #BUILDBUILDBUILD #RECHARGEPH #ComfortableLifeForAll

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Press Release: The Ormoc City Registration Center Opening Ceremony and ribbon-cutting for the Philippine Identification System, which was facilitated by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) — Leyte representatives, happened today, March 19, at the Ground Floor of the new Ormoc City Hall.

The activity was attended by Mayor Richard l. Gomez, SP Members Lalaine A. Marcos and Atty. Jasper Lucero, Wilma A. Perante (Regional Director RSSO8), Marol A. Reposar (Ormoc Landbank Manager), Edna D. Felicita (PhilSys Focal Person, Leyte), Marinette A. Solibaga (OIC, City Civil Registrar, FOCAL PHYLSIS-LGU Ormoc), and Sheryl Ann A. Jamisola (Chief Statistical Specialist, Leyte).

SPM Atty. Lucero gave a brief introduction of R.A. 1165, otherwise known as the Philippine Identification System Act, wherein the law aims to establish a national identification system for all citizens and resident aliens of the Republic of the Philippines.

Meanwhile, Perante mentioned the partnership between the Philippine Statististics Authority and Landbank of the Philippines, and why it is beneficial.

This added service now made available in Ormoc is a true testament that our LGU-Ormoc officials continue to work hard to network and connect with national agencies which services are essential to Ormocanons while in the middle of fighting a pandemic.

Congrats Ormoc! A PSA office is now functioning in the city!

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ANNOUCEMENT
Eastern Samar just received another batch of 115 vials of COVID-19 Vaccines (AstraZeneca), which will be used to vaccinate an estimated 1,150 health workers in all Local Health Centers, including some in the different COVID-19 Isolation Units, across the different Municipalities and City in Eastern Samar. Vaccination of these health workers will begin tomorrow morning.

In line with this, the following Vaccination Sites will be closed for Out-Patient Services (Emergency and In-Patient services will not be affected):

Arteche District Hospital
NO OPD, Monday, March 22

Albino M. Duran Memorial Hospital (Balangiga)
NO OPD, Monday and Tuesday, March 22-23

Felipe Abrigo Memorial Hospital (Guiuan)
NO OPD, Monday, March 22

Eastern Samar Provincial Hospital (Borongan City)
NO OPD, Monday and Tuesday, March 22-23

Oras District Hospital
NO OPD, Tuesday, March 23

Taft District Hospital
NO OPD, Tuesday, March 23

#TowardsAHealthierEasternSamar
#rebakuna #covid19vacccine

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Sending this Press Release on behalf of the Office of Senator Leila de Lima.

De Lima files bill to provide cash grant to farmers, fishermen

Opposition Senator Leila M. de Lima has filed a measure seeking to provide direct cash assistance to small-scale farmers and municipal fisherfolk whose livelihoods have been most severely impacted by the prolonged lockdowns and economic recession brought by the COVID-19 pandemic.

De Lima, Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Social Justice, Welfare and Rural Development, filed Senate Bill (SB) No. 2100 establishing a COVID-19 emergency cash grant to small-scale farmers and municipal fisherfolk living below the poverty line.

"The COVID-19 pandemic has not only severely impacted our public health, but has also debilitated many industries and has caused our economy to go into recession. Among the worst hit economic sectors are those of the farming and fishing industries, particularly small-scale farmers and municipal fisherfolk," she said.

Even before the spread of the pandemic, De Lima said the Philippines Statistics Authority (PSA) had already reported that both farmers and fishermen consistently ranked as two of the most impoverished sectors in society.

In 2018, farmers and fisherfolk registered the highest poverty incidence rates among the basic sectors at 31.6 and 26.2 percent, respectively.

In filing the measure, De Lima stressed that the poor living condition of farmers and fishermen has been exacerbated by the pandemic considering that stringent health protocols and quarantine measures were put in place which put a grinding halt to their livelihood.

"Fishing communities bore the brunt of lockdowns. Processing companies have slowed down and prices dropped – but life went on for fishermen whose daily survival depended on the sea," she said.

"The pandemic also brought hard times to farmers who were still reeling from the onslaught of typhoons, as strict quarantine guidelines have made the farmers' movements more controlled. Many of them were left to watch their hard grown harvest to rot since the lockdowns and health requirements prevented them from travelling to markets to sell their produce," she added.

Under SB No. 2100, all households of small-scale farmers and municipal fisherfolk registered before the Department of Agriculture within their respective districts or provinces, whose primary means of earning livelihood have been negatively impacted by the COVID-19, pandemic shall be entitled to a cash grant of ₱1,000.00 per month for a period of one year.

"Only one beneficiary shall be eligible for households with several small-scale farmers or municipal fisherfolk living under one roof," De Lima, a social justice and human rights champion, stated.

"Marami sa mga kababayan natin ang lalong pinadapa at pinabigat ang mga pasanin sa buhay dahil sa pandemya, kaya hindi katanggap-tanggap na sabihing 'maliit na bagay' lang ang ating pinagdadaanan. Imbes na makatulong, ipinapakita lang ng gobyerno ang pagiging manhid at kawalan ng malasakit, lalo na sa pinaka-nangangailangan," said the lady Senator from Bicol.

De Lima further explained that small-scale farmers and municipal fisherfolk who are receiving conditional cash transfer or recipients of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) Act from the government shall not be entitled to receive the emergency cash grant while they are receiving such conditional cash transfer. (30)

REFERENCES:
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Jet Bellen
09771939399
Thank you for your support!
Respectfully,

Churchill Media Relations Team

About Churchill
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READ: This is LTJG Mary Hazel June Obligacion, Executive Officer of BRP Cabra, now anchored in Palawan. 

She is only in her late 20s, yet as the Executive Officer of the 9th multi-role response vessel (MRRV) of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).

She is the 2nd in command officer on deck in charge of keeping the Captain of the ship even keeled by taking care of all the ship's work, drills, exercises, personnel organization, and the policing and inspection of the mighty vessel.

https://www.facebook.com/100572768145549/posts/274668324069325/

#DOTrPH
#CoastGuardPH
#MaritimeSectorWorks

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Maasin FB Page: In compliance with DILG MC No. 2021-025 for a conduct of Barangay assembly day for the first semester of calendar year (CY) 2021. I attended the Barangay assembly of Brgy. Pasay to discuss updates, issues, concerns and programs that the barangay have implemented together with the different agencies of the National Government.

PB Vittorio P. Villaranda delivered his SOBA highlighting different accomplishments, financial report, plans, projects among others.

Congratulations Barangay Pasay!

#MaasinAjonay
#BarangayAssembly2021
#Barangayan
#DILG

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MAYOR WELCOMES SPANISH ENVOY, BOOSTING BILATERAL RELATIONS

Cebu City Mayor Edgar Labella welcomes to Cebu City Hall, Amaya Fuentes Mylani, deputy head of mission, and Col. Ricardo Pardo, defense attaché as they discuss the goodwill port of call of the Spanish Navy Ship Juan Sebastian Elacano as part of the celebration to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the Philippine part in the first circumnavigation of the world.

Among those discussed were the many similarities Cebuano and Spanish cultures share with one another.

"We are very honored to be welcomed with our esteemed authorities to commemorate this historic day and uphold bilateral relations between our countries" Amaya Fuentes Mylani, said.

"Both Amaya Fuentes Mylani and Col. Ricardo Pardo represent the team commandeering the ship, Juan Sebastian Del Cano. Their visit upholds Cebu's part in the world's first circumnavigation story." Atty. Joy Pesquera, Head of the City Tourism Commission said.

Apart from Mayor Labella and Atty. Pesquera, Lawyers Floro Casas Jr., the city administrator, Rey Gealon, the chief of City Legal Office and Mary Rose Lubino, chief-of-staff joined in welcoming the guests.


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From Guiuan Gazette: Here's the preps for tonight's Cultural Show at the Immaculate Conception Parish complex.

The event will conclude the 500th Quincentennial celebration in Guiuan were various performers from local, regional and national guests will be featured.

In addition, a mass will be officiated by Bishop Crispin Varquez and a dinner will follow. Tonight will also witness the Quincentennial promotional video.

The closing ceremonies is a closed affair to limit the influx of people in the venue. Minimum health protocols will be implemented.

Photos|GDAltar


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LOOK: As part of the development plan of Maritime Industry Authority, MARINA Region 7 - Regional Director Marc Anthony P. Pascua visited the MARINA Dumaguete Extension Office (DEO) and the Station Commander CDR Christopher P. Auro of Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in Dumaguete City on 18 March 2021 to discuss the proposal in conducting OPLAN ISLAS (Integrated System to Legitimized Activities at Sea) and to provide assistance for the distant-resident boat operators in the area.

RD Pascua also visited Dumaguete Port Manager Atty. Sarah R. Mijares of Philippine Port Authority (PPA) the next day, 19 March 2021, to discuss the request for an office space for MARINA Extension Office in PPA new building to provide better service to the clients.

It is MRO7's objective to provide assistance and convenience to all its clients, especially to those who are living in the remote areas inside the jurisdiction.
#DOTrPH
#MARINAPH
#MaritimeSectorWorks


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As more destinations reopen for travel, we remind our tourists and stakeholders to observe health and safety protocols such as wearing of face masks and shields, maintaining proper hygiene, reducing contact by using contactless apps, and physical distancing.

Have a Safe Trip, Pinas!

Add the Profile Frame to your photo!

1. Go to your Facebook Profile
2. Tap on your profile picture and click "Add Frame"
3. Search the "Have A Safe Trip Pinas" frame and click to add it to your photo.
4. Tap "Save" to wish everyone a safe trip on their local travels!

#SafeTripPH #NewNormalTravel #TravelSafePinas #SafeTrip #ItsMoreFunInThePhilippines #WeRecoverAsOne


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Press Release: 15th Sangguninang Panlungsod Member Dr. Gerry Penserga, one of the General Surgeons in Ormoc got his first shot of the AstraZeneca Vaccine today at the Ormoc Doctor's Hospital.

As a medical practicioner and a frontliner, he said: "I encourage everyone to be vaccinated, dili ni siya to prevent transmission. Mu ingon sila nga "Magpa-vaccinate ko aron dili ko matakdan sa virus", dili kana siya ang primary reason. Ang primary reason why you have to be vaccinated is to protect yourself. Because of all the vaccines nga gi study, they provide almost 100% protection nga kung ikaw magka-COVID, dili serious ang sakit nimo. Ila na-observe nga kadaghanan sa nabakunahan, wa sila nagkasakit sa COVID. In other words, more than 80%, ang uban naay COVID infection pero dili mu-manifest. Ila mga symptoms mild ra jud kaayo. Pwede ra jud ipahuway nimo sa balay.

Each and every one of us, I encourage nga magpabakuna ta para iwas COVID-19, masakit, ug iwas ospital. Kay karong panahuna, mahal ma-ospital."


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Press Release: Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Commandant, Admiral George V Ursabia Jr led the Joint Turn-Over Ceremony of seven Coast Guard Districts held via video conferencing yesterday, 18 March 2021:

Coast Guard District National Capital Region - Central Luzon
Outgoing: Commodore Charlie Q Rances
Incoming: Commodore Leovigildo G Panopio

Coast Guard District Northwestern Luzon
Outgoing: Commodore Genito B Basilio
Incoming: Commodore Inocencio C Rosario Jr

Coast Guard District Palawan
Outgoing: Commodore Arnaldo M Lim
Incoming: Commodore Genito B Basilio

Coast Guard District Southeastern Mindanao
Outgoing: Commodore Luisito S Sibayan
Incoming: Commodore Allan O Corpuz

Coast Guard District Northeastern Mindanao
Outgoing: Commodore Inocencio C Rosario Jr
Incoming: Commodore Luisito S Sibayan

Coast Guard District Southern Mindanao
Outgoing: Captain Nelbert P Aniversario
Incoming: Captain Rejard V Marfe

Coast Guard District Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao
Incoming: Captain Christopher M Meniado

During the ceremony, Admiral Ursabia urged the Incoming Commanders to be proactive and accountable role models to their subordinates. He also encouraged them to patiently mentor their personnel so they may continue to improve their service to God, the country, and fellow Filipinos.

#DOTrPH ️
#CoastGuardPH
#MaritimeSectorWorks


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URGENT HIRING OF ONE (1) WRITER

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) – Central Office's Public Affairs and Communication Service (PACS) is urgently hiring ONE (1) WRITER under Contract of Service (COS) basis with monthly compensation of P29,277­­­­. Details of the said vacancy are as follows:

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree relevant to the job (Mass Communication, Development Communication, Journalism, Creative Writing, AB English, or other related courses)
• One (1) year relevant experience
• Four (4) hours of relevant training

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Write press releases, speeches, messages, feature articles, and other write-ups;
• Coordinate with concerned offices for the needed background data;
• Assist in the conduct of PACS-led activities;
• Attend official Department/PACS field coverage; and
• Perform other related tasks as may be assigned (i.e. graphics or layout designing).

Requirements:

• Application letter addressed to:
      Marlo S. Guanzon, Ph.D.
      Director IV
      Public Affairs and Communication Service
      21st floor DILG-NAPOLCOM Center, EDSA cor. Quezon Avenue, Quezon City
• Updated resume (graphics or layout skill is a plus)
• Scanned copy of college diploma and Transcript of Records
• At least three published articles; and sample graphics or layout design is a plus

Kindly submit the requirements to icrd.dilg@gmail.com with the subject "(SURNAME)_Application for Writer_2021" such as this example: Dela Cruz_Application for Writer_2021. Deadline for submission is on Friday, March 19, 2021. Applications beyond the deadline will no longer be processed as this is an urgent hiring.

For other job opportunities at the DILG Central Office (Quezon City), you may visit our website at http://dilg.gov.ph/careers-archive/


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If you're looking for an outdoor adventure this weekend, then Tanay, Rizal is the place to be!

One of the natural wonders you can safely explore is the Calinawan Cave, a magnificent seven-layered cavern with wondrous rock formations. It is not only known for its intricate cave system, but also its significance in Philippine history!

Plan a trip to the secluded nature spots of Tanay for a secure adventure with strict health protocols in place. Visit https://philippines.travel/safetrip for the safety guidelines.

Have a #SafeTrip, Pinas! #SafeTripPH

#NewNormalTravel #TravelSafePinas #WeRecoverAsOne #ItsMoreFunInThePhilippines #nature #adventure #waterfalls #Philippines #exploreph  #travelphilippines


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𝗕𝗢𝗖-𝗣𝗢𝗠, 𝗣𝗗𝗘𝗔 𝗦𝗲𝗶𝘇𝗲𝘀 𝗣𝟱 𝗠𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗵 𝗼𝗳 𝗘𝗰𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘀𝘆 𝗜𝗻 𝗣𝗮𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗮

Press Release: As part of the Bureau of Customs' (BOC) continuing efforts against the proliferation of illegal drugs, the Bureau through the Port of Manila (POM) Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) in coordination with the Enforcement and Security Service (ESS) and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), seized 3,100 pieces of ecstasy tablets from a claimant in Dau, Mabalacat Pampanga on March 18, 2021.

Through the combined efforts of BOC Port of Manila Customs Postal Office, CMEC-NAIA, CAIDTF, CIIS, and PDEA, a controlled delivery operation was conducted which resulted in the arrest of the claimant, a certain Agatha Lavadia Palen. The claimant bared the authorization letter to receive the parcel containing the drugs which were consigned to a certain Zhyelle Marquez Ancheta. Originally declared as Orthopedic jelly shoes, flexible led mirror, dust buster, hand mixer, and birdhouse display, the package was verified to contain a total of 3,100 various tablets of ecstasy estimated to have a value of Php 5.270 Million. 

The claimant was taken into custody by PDEA and is currently undergoing investigation for possible violation of RA 9165 also known as the Anti-illegal Drugs Act as well as Section 1400 of RA 10863 also known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.

POM District Collector Michael Angelo Vargas stated that the operation is a result of good coordination, swift and decisive action as mandated by Commissioner Rey Leonardo Guerrero. Vargas assured that the Port of Manila shall always remain strict in processing shipments to ensure that no illegal contraband gets through.

Moreover, the port collector warned the public to be careful when claiming packages especially when it is done as a favor as this may be the means of certain unscrupulous individuals to smuggle illegal drugs into the country.

As the Bureau remains committed to supporting the Duterte Administration's war against Drugs, the Port of Manila is steadfast in its mandate for border security under the leadership of Commissioner Guerrero.
###


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LTFRB PRESS RELEASE
17 March 2021

Nililinaw ng Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) na hindi nagkulang ang ahensya sa pagkonsulta sa mga Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) transport service cooperatives, operators at drivers kaugnay ng implementation ng Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP), lalo na ang importansya ng konsolidasyon sa ilalim ng programa

Noong 2018, kung kailan inilunsad ang PUVMP, nagkaroon ng mga inisyatibo ng LTFRB para mapalaganap ang impormasyon ng PUVMP sa mga driver at operator, at kabilang rito ang PUVMP Roadshow Caravan na isinagawa sa iba't ibang bahagi ng bansa simula noong Hulyo 2019 hanggang Marso 2020

Maaalala na nagkaroon ng public consultation ang LTFRB, kasama ang Office of Transportation Cooperatives (OTC), at ng ilang PUV drivers noong ika-11 ng Marso 2020, ilang araw bago magpatupad ng Community Quarantine sa Metro Manila dahil sa Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Nagkaroon din ng diyalogo ang LTFRB, sa pangunguna ni LTFRB Chairman Atty. Martin B. Delgra III, at ilang Public Utility Bus (PUB) operators at drivers kaugnay naman ng fleet consolidation noong ika-23 ng Enero 2020.

Bukod pa 'yan sa mga isinagawang konsultasyon ng ahensya sa mga PUV operators at drivers kaugnay ng PUVMP at ng consolidation na requirement ng programa sa mga nakaraang taon. Kung tutuusin, nagresulta ang mga konsultasyon sa konsolidasyon ng ilang kooperatiba at kalauna'y nakapaglunsad ng modern units hindi lang sa Metro Manila kundi pati sa ilang probinsya sa bansa.

Simula noong 2018, naging bukas ang pinto ng LTFRB sa mga nais sumali sa naturang programa at walang sawa ang ahensya sa pakikipag-usap sa mga PUV drivers at operators tungkol sa mga benepisyo ng PUVMP.

Ang PUVMP ay isang programa ng administrasyong Duterte na naglalayong makapagbigay nang maayos, moderno, komportable at ligtas na pampublikong transportasyon sa bansa. Layon ng programa ang mapabuti ang sistema ng mga pampublikong sasakyan hindi lang para sa mga mananakay, kundi pati sa mga drayber at operator upang magkaroon sila ng sapat at marangal na kabuhayan.

#PUVMP
#LTFRB


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The Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC) represented by Mr. Vincent Escario - Manager, in partnership with the City Government of Maasin, headed by our City Mayor Nacional V. Mercado and Vice-Mayor Maloney Samaco, through the City Agriculture's Office, facilitated the release of Indemnity Check to the following farmers who claimed insurance for their damaged crops due to extreme weather events, pests and plant diseases:

a. Brgy. Bagtican – 12 farmers;
b. Brgy. Dongon – 2 farmers;
c. Brgy. Libertad – 1 farmer;
d. Brgy. Tigbawan – 1 farmer; and
e. Brgy. Laboon – 1 farmer.

The City Government of Maasin is thankful for the continuous support of PCIC to our farmers.


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Ormoc City Mayor Richard l. Gomez inspected the Php 18M 'Eco Park Project' in Brgy. Naungan on Friday, March 19.

The said phase 2 project that is now under construction consists of a landing jetty, rest stop, and boardwalk.

The aforesaid project is expected to be completed on June 2021.

Vice Mayor Leo Carmelo Locsin Jr. and SP Member Vince Rama were also present during the said inspection.


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PH to have steady supply of anti-COVID vaccines in the next three months

PASIG CITY --- The national government aims to have a steady supply of anti-COVID vaccines in the next three months in line with its goal of vaccinating 50 to 70 million Filipinos within this year.

"Ang target po namin ay magkaroon ng 4 million supply by April, while sa May naman po ang target ay 6 to 8 million," said Sec. Carlito G. Galvez Jr, National Task Force against COVID-19 Chief Implementer and Vaccine Czar in a radio interview on March 19, Friday.

"Then this coming June, we are targeting 12 to 15 million vaccine doses. Ang best case scenario na in case mag ease up ang global supply at magre-release ang US at Europe ng supplies ay pwede po natin makuha talaga 'yong target natin," Galvez added.

According to the vaccine czar, the government is now conducting an average of 20,000 vaccinations a day across 1,084 vaccination centers out of the 1,500 nationwide. Each vaccination center can accommodate 100 to 120 individuals.

Galvez said around 269,583 medical frontliners and health care workers have been vaccinated throughout the country as of March 17. Next to be vaccinated are senior citizens based on the Department of Health's priority list.

Yesterday, the Philippines government, together with the private sector, signed a tripartite agreement with American vaccine manufacturer Moderna, a development that is expected to provide a major boost to the nation's vaccine program.

Under the agreement, the US-based company will supply the country with 20 million vaccine doses, 13 million of which were ordered by the government, while the 7 million were procured by private firms led by businessman Enrique Razon.

Aside from the Moderna vaccines, the government has also placed orders for Sinovac vaccines that will be shipped in tranches in the next three months. Two million doses are scheduled to arrive in April, another 2 million doses in May, and 4.5 million doses in June. ###


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Gov't considering simultaneous vaccination among priority groups

PASIG CITY --- The National Task Force (NTF) against COVID-19 is mulling the proposal of vaccinating different priority groups simultaneously, as the bulk of the vaccine supplies are expected to arrive in May and June.

In a press briefing on Friday, March 19, Sec. Carlito G. Galvez Jr, NTF on COVID-19 Chief Implementer and Vaccine Czar, said the mass vaccination is scheduled to begin when there's an "influx of supply."

He pointed out that it would be more feasible if the government will mobilize both the public and private sectors to scale up the country's vaccination rate in the coming months. 

"We will target different sectors simultaneously para maiksi ang time with maximum output," Galvez said.

Under the proposal,  the government plans to conduct the simultaneous vaccination of those in priority groups A1 to A4 as identified by the Interim National Immunization Technical Advisory Group (iNITAG).

The national and local governments will spearhead the vaccination of those individuals under A1 to A3, while the private sector will lead the vaccination for the A4 priority group.

Included in the A1 category are frontline workers of local and national, as well as private and public health institutions, health professionals and non-professionals such as students, nursing aides, janitors and barangay health workers.

The A2 priority group covers senior citizens, while individuals with comorbidities fall under the A3 list.

Meanwhile, frontline personnel in essential sectors including uniformed personnel are under the A4 list.

"Para hindi nakatengga ang resources and capabilities natin. Kapag nagkaroon tayo ng full mobilization, ine-expect namin na tataas ang ating vaccination rate to 100,000 a day or even 250,000 a day," Galvez added.

The vaccine czar shared that the initial vaccine supply ordered by the private sector, which is composed of 2.6 million doses of Astrazeneca, will be delivered in May.

The government is expecting to receive a total of five to eight million doses in May. These include those supplies procured by the private sector, 200,000 doses of Moderna, two million doses of Sinovac, and early deliveries coming from different manufacturers.

This March, 2.3 million doses from Sinovac and the COVAX facility will be delivered. By April, around five million doses from Gamaleya and Sinovac are expected to arrive. END


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By Manny Piñol
Governance 101
'No Lockdown for Dreams!'

At the start of the 2-day workshop on the crafting of the master plan for the development of Olutanga Island yesterday, I shared with the participants, including the mayors of the three towns in the island, my perspectives on governance and community building.

I am what some may call a "maverick" and a "non-conformist" to the traditional way of top to bottom governance.

In my opening statement, I urged the local leaders to think beyond the traditional mindset of governance and challenged them to build a virtual house from the fears, dreams, hopes and aspirations of their people.

I urged them to simplify governance by identifying the most basic needs of their people and addressing these using effectively the resources of government.

Most of all, I encouraged them to dream big because there is no limit to dreaming and there are no lockdowns for dreams.

The role of the agency which I head, the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) is to weave their dreams into a workable strategy to address poverty, boost productivity and achieve peace in their communities.

#GovernanceIsCommonSense!
#FeelThePulseOfOurPeople!
#KungGustoMaramingParaan!

(This video presentation was produced by the Beauty & Bounty of Mindanao Media Team for the Mindanao Development Authority.)


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2 NEW CASES OF COVID-19 REPORTED IN TACLOBAN CITY

21 NEW COVID-19 CASES, ONE (1) DEATH, AND  52 NEW RECOVERIES RECORDED TODAY

As of  7 AM today, March 20, 2021, the Department of Health- Eastern Visayas reports the region's total number of COVID-19 cases at 16,224, total recoveries at 15,660 (96.52%)  and total deaths at 240 (1.48%). This brings the total active cases to 324 (2.00%).

A total of 21 new cases were recorded out of 494 laboratory samples tested in the three (3) COVID-19 laboratories in the region, the EVRCTC, DWHVL, and the Ormoc Molecular Diagnostic Center. This represents 4.25% positivity rate.

The EVRCTC has released a total of 317 laboratory results. Of these, 310 are negative and  7 are positive for COVID-19.

Meanwhile, the DWHVL has released a total of 154 laboratory results. Of these, 139 are negative and 15 are positive (with 10 new cases and 5 re-swabs) for COVID-19.

The Ormoc Molecular Diagnostic Center has released also a total of 23 laboratory results with 19 negative and 4 positive for COVID-19.

The 21 new confirmed cases are  from the following provinces/cities/municipalities:

TACLOBAN CITY (2)

ORMOC CITY (3)

LEYTE (9)
Abuyog – 1
Kananga – 1
Palo – 2
Palompon – 3
Tabango – 1
Villaba – 1

SOUTHERN LEYTE (4)
Libagon – 1
Maasin City – 2
San Francisco – 1

EASTERN SAMAR (1)
     Borongan City – 1 (Close Contact)

SAMAR (1)
Calbayog – 1

BILIRAN (1)
Naval – 1

Other details will be provided by the concerned LGU.

Meanwhile, the COVID-19 related death recorded today is the following:
EV-14437 – a 34-year old male, from Palo, Leyte, who died on March 19, 2021.

There  was one (1) case from Baybay City that was previously tagged as new case  but is now reclassified as re-swab upon verification.  Hence the adjustment of the total case count.

The Department of Health appeals to the public to continue observing and practicing the minimum public health standards at all times and in all settings. Be part of the solution in ending this pandemic!
Let us BIDA Solusyon Plus sa COVID-19:
B- Bawal walang face mask at face shield
I- Isanitize ang kamay at iwasan ang kulob na lugar
D- Dumistansya ng isang metro at limitahan ang pisikal na interaksyon sa iba
A- Alamin ang tamang impormasyon, at
Plus- Suportahan ang FDA approved na bakuna.

Be a BIDA Bastonero by informing, reminding, correcting, and appreciating the public to ensure adherence to the minimum public health standards.
Together, we can #BeatCOVID-19!

Source: DOH-EV
#TacTodayBantayCOVID19 #TaclobanToday #TacToday


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BUILD BUILD BUILD GOES ON!

Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Arthur P. Tugade, together with Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) General Manager Jay Daniel Santiago, inaugurated three completed port projects in Palawan – the Port of San Fernando in El Nido, the Port of Bataraza in Brgy. Buliluyan, and the Borac Port in Coron yesterdah, 19 March 2021, fulfilling the promise of the Duterte administration to link the island province to other parts of the country and to nearby countries.

The inauguration also marks the start of operations for the newly constructed seaports that aim to boost economic progress, not just of Palawan, but the whole of the MIMAROPA (Mindoro-Marinduque-Romblon-Palawan) region as well.

Also in attendance at the triple event were Palawan Governor Jose Ch. Alvarez, Palawan 2nd District Rep. Cyrille Abueg-Zaldivar, Palawan 3rd District Rep. Gil Acosta Jr., El Nido, Palawan Mayor Edna G. Lim, and other local and national officials.

The ports of San Fernando, Bataraza, and Borac are among the 424 completed seaport projects of the DOTr and PPA, under the massive "BUILD, BUILD, BUILD" infrastructure program of the Duterte administration.

"Ngayon ay magpasinaya tayo ng hindi isa, hindi dalawa, kundi tatlong Puerto, kasagutan sa pangarap ng Palawan. Kasama ang tatlong puerto na pinasisinayaan natin ngayon, sumatutal na puerto na ginawa ng Kagawaran ng Transportasyon at ng PPA ay 19 ports 'ho, ito yung nagawa na, kasama na rin 'ho ang tatapusin. By any numbers, 19 is not small, it is not medium, it is big pagkat ang Palawan ay malapit sa puso ni Pangulong Rodrigo Roa Duterte, ang Palawan ay malapit sa puso ng Duterte administration," Secretary Tugade said.

"It took only the political will of President Mayor Rodrigo Roa Duterte and the cooperation of the local government to say enough is enough, let us put all our actions so that the dreams that we have will come true. And today, those dreams will have to be a reality because they will bring convenience and comfort not only to the people of Palawan but more importantly to the people of the Philippines and also to the people of the neighboring ASEAN," Secretary Tugade added.

For his part, GM Santiago said that aside from the 13 completed out of the 19 seaport projects in Palawan, the agency also has four (4) more ongoing projects in the province.

"Dito sa Coron, bagamat nagawa na ang bagong pantalan dyan sa Borac, yung luma sa Coron town ay iimprove pa natin yan. Kailangang ayusin ang Port Operations Building dyan para mas maganda ang serbisyo ng PPA sa port users at kailangan continuously ina-upgrade ang ating mga pier, bugbog po talaga ang pantalan na yan sa dami ng biyahe. Dito naman po sa Aborlan ay kung papano mai-improve ang maliit na pantalan doon para makapag-silbi hindi lamang sa mga mangingisda kundi para masilbihan din ang  mga deretsong kargamento as an alternate port po sa Southern Palawan other than Puerto Princesa," GM Santiago said.

Meanwhile, Palawan Governor Alvarez commended Secretary Tugade and the PPA for the completion of the said port projects, which he noted as the government's fulfillment of the ASEAN agreement for the enhancement of interconnectivity in the region.

"Kung walang political will mula sa isang Secretary [Secretary Tugade] na halos hindi na natutulog matapos lamang ang proyekto, hindi matatapos ang mga proyekto ni Pangulong Duterte," Governor Alvarez said.

"Ang Palawan ay masyadong bantog sa Kota Kinabalu and the whole of Sabah, where we have 1.3 million Filipinos, sila po ay malayang pupunta rito sa Palawan pag konektado na tayo sa RORO," the Governor added.

The completed projects at the Port of San Fernando include the construction of a Back-up Area with RORO (roll-on, roll-off) Ramp, a Causeway, and Access Road, as well as a reinforced concrete (RC) wharf with a RORO ramp.

Development works on the wharf, back-up area, and the port lighting system were meanwhile accomplished at the Port of Bataraza.

On the other hand, projects completed at the Borac Port include the development of its back-up area, construction of concrete pavement, as well as the supply and installation of lamp posts, rubber dock fenders, and mooring bollards.


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#PUBLICADVISORY: Public Advisory
QR Code registration via www.safecity.tacloban.gov.ph will be unavailable tomorrow, Saturday, March 20, 2021, from 8AM to 5 PM due to electrical ground fault testing to be conducted by the CGSO team that will result in the cut-off of power supply in city government offices.  This is a temporary downtime, and the system will be available as soon as the problem is resolved within the day.

Source: Tacloban Safe City
#TacToday #TaclobanToday


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28 March 1968 Operation Merdeka Denounced!
Immediately after Senator Ninoy Aquino exposed OPLAN MERDEKA, President Ferdinand Marcos' plan to retake Sabah, on March 28, 1968, a Malaysia Navy ship accompanied by a Royal Navy (UK) frigate attempted to enter PH territorial sea but BRP CEBU (RPS-28), under the command of LCdr Golez (father of the late Congressman Roilo Golez) -- and on which our very own Teo Calasanz was serving aboard as a young junior officer, intercepted the combined UK-Malaysia flotilla. The Philippine Navy patrol craft escort stood her ground and prepared to engage a larger, heavier enemy.


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By Manny Piñol via MDA
Bangsamoro Halal Beef!
BARMM EYES 5 PROVINCES
FOR CATTLE PRODUCTION

The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region will implement the  Mindanao Development Authority-initiated Livestock Development Program with all of its five provinces as the pilot areas of Cattle Fattening Facilities.

These provinces are expected to produce the first banner product of the region, Bangsamoro Halal Beef, which is expected to be launched before the end of the year.

Bangsamoro Minister for Agriculture Fisheries and Agrarian Reform (MAFAR) Mohammad Yacob sought MinDA's technical assistance in implementing the program in the Autonomous Region during the signing of the Memorandum of Technical Cooperation between the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) and the Bangsamoro Development Authority (BDA) on Thursday, March 18 in Davao City.

The signing of the MinDA-MAFAR-BDA memorandum of technical cooperation was witnessed by Australian Ambassador to the Phiippines Steven Robinson who assured the BARMM officials of his country's support for the Bangsamoro Cattle Development Program.

Yacob and BDA Chairman Mangontawar Macacuna said cattle production in the region is a priority project because the region is a huge consumer of beef, especially during the annual Qurban, the ritual sacrifice of a livestock animal during Eid al-Adha.

For this year's Qurban, over 1,000 heads of cattle are expected to be slaughtered and the meat shared with Muslim communities all over the region.

Muslims also mark special family and community occasions by slaughtering cattle or goats.

By establishing Cattle Fattening Facilities in each of the five provinces of the BARMM, the beef requirements of the local population would be served, Yacob said.

The project designed by MinDA will also create allied activities like corn and sorghum production, silage-making and leather making.

For the five pilot Cattle Feedlot Facilities, an estimated 5,000 heads of Cows and steers will be imported from Australia to be fattened and slaughtered after 100 days.

Initially, the first feedlot will be established near the Triple A Halal Abattoir built by the Department of Agriculture (DA) in Cotabato City.

Before the end of the year, the Bangsamoro Cattle Program will introduce the Bangsamoro Halal Beef, produced from cattle fattened and slaughtered in the region, which will be initially marketed locally.

The program will later target the huge Halal Market in the BIMP-EAGA area and later Muslim countries in the Middle East.

#KungGustoMaramingParaan!
#GovernanceIsCommonSense!

(Photos by the media team of the Mindanao Development Authority)


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ANUNSYO SA PUBLIKO:

Ipinapaalam ng Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) na aprubado na ang revised Citizen's Charter na makapagbibigay-tulong upang mapadali ang mga transaksyon ng ahensya at patuloy na maitaguyod ang pagbibigay ng Ease of Doing Business.

Mga Mahahalagang Paalala:

1.  Ang implementasyon ng 2020 Citizen's Charter (2nd Edition) ay epektibo simula March 29, 2021;

2.  Mangyaring kumpletuhin ang lahat ng kinakailangang dokumento/requirements bago magpasa ng Application o Request;

3.  Ang mga aplikanteng makakapagsumite ng kumpletong requirements lamang ang tatanggapin at maproseso ng opisina;

4.  Para sa kumpletong detalye ng 2020 Citizen's Charter (2nd Edition) kung saan makikita ang requirements at process flow, i-click lamang ang link na ito:

- Central Office: https://ltfrb.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/ARTA-Citizens-Charter_Central_FINAL-15March2021.pdf

- LTFRB RFRO: https://ltfrb.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/ARTA-Citizens-Charter-RFRO_FINAL-15March2021.pdf

Para sa karagdagang katanungan, tumawag sa LTFRB 24/7 Hotline: 1342

#LTFRB
#CitizensCharter


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"To share the positive impact of the digital economy in promoting inclusive development by inspiring and empowering entrepreneurs, youth and women globally" has been Alibaba Global Initiative's mission. It has catered to over 900 entrepreneurs globally with almost 600 in SEA market— learning how to harness
digital technology to transform their businesses and larger economies, and:
• Understanding the development of the digital economy in China and key insights into the evolution of Alibaba's ecosystem;
• Discovering the role of new technologies and the digital economy in enabling national development, plus trends and practices in the growing digital economy in China; and
• Gaining key learnings from traditional businesses from a wide range of industries who recently went through digital transformation in China.

Today, the Alibaba Netpreneur Training (ANT) program has been updated to a mixed model of both offline immersion and online courses, to continue supporting entrepreneurs during this challenging time.

The online course will continue for 6 weeks starting July 21st until September 1st 2021,
with 2 online webinars per week (one is mandatory and another one optional on industrial insights). Participants will take roughly 4-6 hours per week to complete the course, and receive a certificate of completion from Alibaba Business School. Top performers among them will have the opportunity to be invited to Alibaba Headquarters in China to join the offline immersion after the pandemic.

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UP marine scientist Dr. Deo Florence L. Onda is ready for his historic first-ever human dive to Emden Deep, the 3rd deepest spot on Earth found in the Philippine Trench. The microbial oceanographer of the UP Marine Science Institute was invited by the Caladan Oceanic organization to join the Emden Deep Expedition targeted to dive into the depths of the Philippines' sea from March 22 to 28, 2021.

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By Manny Piñol
Building a dream!

Yesterday, I and the team from the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) took an 11-hour trip from Davao City to Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay to conduct a 2-day workshop for the three towns in Olutanga Island.

Leaving Davao City at 3 p.m. yesterday, the team arrived in Ipil at 2 a.m. today for the start of the workshop this morning.

The workshop, participated in by officials of the Provincial Government, the three mayors and their key officials and leaders of the different sectors will craft the Master Plan for Agriculture and Fisheries for the island.

Concerns on security will also be tackled and included in the Master Plan.

#GovernanceIsCommonSense!
#KungGustoMaramingParaan!


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Press Release: Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) personnel stationed in Eastern Smar promptly responded to a distress call of a shipping vessel off the waters of Guiuan, and rescued 16 VIPs and 5 other PCG crew, today, 17 March 2021.

The sixteen VIPs and five PCG personnel were on board the F/B BENCOR en route to Homohon Island when the fishing boat encountered engine trouble at the vicinity waters between Manicani and Homohon Island.

As reported by the District Commander in Coast Guard District Eastern Visayas, it was stated that around 7:44 AM when the fishing vessel had engine problem, and made contact with PCG station.

Then at around 8:22AM, three (3) rubber boats with PCG Search and Rescue team on board arrived in the area and assisted the distressed vessel. At around 8:31AM, a security vessel for the event that the VIPs were about to attend, the MRRV "BRP Suluan," arrived, shipsided, and successfully embarked/transferred all the passengers. The security vessel then departed for Homohon Island for an unveiling ceremony set to be attended by the VIPs.

Among the passenger VIPs were Borongan City Mayor Jose Ivan Dayan C. Agda and Eastern Samar Representative Maria Fe Abunda. The two officials have expressed their appreciation and gratitude to PCG Commandant Admiral George V. Ursabia Jr., for the timely and prompt rescue operation by PCG personnel.

Also, Congresswoman Abunda, realizing the value and importance of the PCG, said that she is committing the funding of the construction of the Coast Guard Eastern Samar Building, of which Mayor Agda, on the other hand, said that he will donate the lot where the building will be constructed.

[Photo Courtesy: PCG District - Eastern Visayas]

#DOTrPH️ #CoastGuardPH #MaritimeSectorWorks


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The Harm Reduction Alliance of the Philippines (HARAP) is a national peer-run advocacy and capacity-building association that aims to promote harm reduction as part of the country's public health policy.


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Advisory: This is a public service advisory brought to you by the National Telecommunications Commission, Presidential Communications Operations Office and Globe. PHILSYS CEREMONIAL EVENT kasama si Pres. Duterte, March 19, 1PM sa PhilSys FB page @PSAPhilSysOfficial. Maghanda at makiisa sa makabagong Pilipinas! #IDnatin. No public advisories? Text STOP to 26827 for free.


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WE ARE HIRING!
The DTI-Eastern Samar Provincial Office is accepting interested and qualified applicants as Negosyo Center Business Counselor (NCBC) – Job Order to be assigned in the Municipalities of Balangiga, Llorente, and Jipapad, Eastern Samar.

Qualifications:

1. Must be a resident of the Municipality of Balangiga, Llorente, and Jipapad, Eastern Samar;
2. A graduate of four (4)-year course preferably Business-related courses;
3. With good written and oral communication skills, and has a good command of English Language;
4. Preferably with Civil Service (Second Level) Eligibility; and
5. Must pass the written examination and panel interview.

Interested and qualified applicants shall submit the following:

1. Signed Personal Data Sheet with recent passport-size photo (CSC Form 212 Revised 2017 which can be downloaded at www.csc.gov.ph);
2. Copy of Certificate of Trainings, if applicable;
3. Copy of Transcript of Records (TOR);
4. Copy of Certificate of Eligibility, if applicable; and
5. Signed Application Letter / Letter of Intent addressed to:

RUTHELMA S. SAMONTE
OIC-Provincial Director
DTI – Eastern Samar Provincial Office
G/F Wheeler's Bldg., Baybay 5, Brgy. Songco
Borongan City, Eastern Samar

Qualified applicants may send their application, together with the required documents, to the above specified office address or email to r08.easternsamar@dti.gov.ph on or before March 31, 2021 (Wednesday). Incomplete submission of documents shall not be processed nor entertained.

For more information, please contact DTI-Eastern Samar Provincial Office at telephone number (055) 560-9746 or mobile number 09955023619.


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Boosting Beef Production!
By Manny Piñol

Australia Pledges Support
for Mindanao Cattle Program

Davao City - The Mindanao Development Authority program to transform Mindanao into a major beef production area for the country received a big boost yesterday with the commitment of support from the Australian government.

Australian Ambassador to the Philippines Steven Robinson, in a meeting with officials of MinDA yesterday, lauded the Mindanao Livestock Development Progam which aims to establish cattle fattening facilities in the different provinces of the region.

He said a large-scale cattle fattening program which would include processing and packaging would have cascading benefits on the silage and feeds production industry of Mindanao.

Ambassador Robinson said Australia could provide technical assistance in the establishment of modern abattoirs and tanneries.

The Cattle Production component of the Mindanao Livestock Development Program involves the fattening of  locally procured Cattle in feedlots to be operated by local government units as Economic Enterprise Projects.

The Program also aims to import from Australia's Northern Territory culled cows and steers which will be fattened in feedlots using silage and feeds produced by local farmers and slaughtered in abattoirs to be established strategic areas of Mindanao.

The long-term program involves the establishment of breeder farms and the upgrading of the local cattle population through Artificial Insemination.

The fattening protocol will be introduced by outstanding OFW Arnel Corpuz, MinDA's livestock program consultant who spent 11 years in Australia's Wagyu Feedlots.

The program will be tied to the Sorghum and Corn Industry Development Program pushed by MinDA.

The Development Bank of the Philippines, MinDA's financing partner, will be tapped to support the LGUs' funding requirements for the project.

During the engagement yesterday, Ambassador Robinson and the MinDA Chairman agreed to craft the terms of engagement between MinDA and the government of the Northern Territory of Australia where most of the cows and the steers are expected to come from.

MinDA sought the support of the Australia government in ensuring a sustained supply of cattle for fattening and also technical assistance in the establishment of modern abattoirs and tanneries to create a new industry in Mindanao, leather making.

The program is expected to be launched before June this year, in time for the onset of the winter season in Australia when ranchers are expected to sell their culled cows and steers.

The MinDA Livestock Development Program aims to boost food production in Mindanao to achieve food self-sufficiency and also contribute to the supply of meat for the rest of the country.

#GovernanceIsCommonSense!
#KungGustoMaramingParaan!

(Photos of the engagement between MinDA Chairman Manny Piñol and Australian Ambassador Steven Robinson were taken by the MinDA Media Team while the photos of cattle in a feedlot in Polomolok, South Cotabato were submitted by the Adelaide River Farm.)


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PRRD ORDERS MASSIVE LAND DISTRIBUTION AS PART OF PEACE DRIVE 

Press Release: President Rodrigo R. Duterte led a gathering of leaders in Eastern Visayas today March 18, 2021 in Tacloban City aimed at solidifying commitment to end armed communist insurgency in the region.

President Duterte expressed his resolve to end armed conflict by improving governance, punctuated by announcing the distribution of 2,234 hectares and 1,500 Certificates of Land Ownership Awards (CLOAs) to farmer beneficiaries.

He likewise commended the National and Regional Task Forces on Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict for taking the strides against the insurgency through the Whole of Nation Approach and delivery of services. He assured the security of the former rebels in the audience and even the right to defend themselves through the use of firearms, and asked them to relay his offer to their former comrades. He ensured that the entire force of the Filipinos is behind  the effort  to secure lasting peace.

Meanwhile National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon announced the NTF ELCAC's recommendation for 200 barangays in Eastern Visayas to be included in the 2022 budget under the Barangay Development Program. BDP aims to bridge the governance gaps and address issues that are the root causes of the insurgency.

The event likewise featured the turnover of services to beneficiaries by various national agencies as part of the Whole of Nation approach that typifies implementation of Executive Order 70, to include
Among the cabinet officers who accompanied the President were Senator Bong Go, National Security  Adviser Hermogenes Esperon, Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security (CORDS) Eduardo del Rosario, DILG OIC Undersecretary Bernardo Florece, Secretaries Ramon Lopez of DTI, Isidro Lapena of TESDA, Silvestre Bello of DOLE, Al Cusi of Energy, John Castricciones of Agrarian Reform, Rodolfo Bautista of DSWD, William Dar of Agriculture, and Prospero de Veyra of CHED.

Also on hand were DILG Undersecretary Marlo L. Iringan, Undersecretary Jonathan E. Malaya and DILG 8 Regional Director Karl Caesar R. Rimando.  Among the attendees were provincial governors, congressional representatives, city and municipal mayors, punong barangays, beneficiaries, former rebels and regional directors.

Prior to this, President Duterte visited Guiuan, Eastern Samar for the quincentennial celebration of the advent of Christianity in the country.

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COVID-19 ALERT:

31 NEW COVID-19 CASES AND  28 NEW RECOVERIES RECORDED TODAY

As of  7 AM today, March 19, 2021, the Department of Health- Eastern Visayas reports the region's total number of COVID-19 cases at 16,204, total recoveries at 15,608 (96.32%)  and total deaths at 239 (1.47%). This brings the total active cases to 357 (2.20%).

A total of 30 new cases were recorded out of 567 laboratory samples tested in the three (3) COVID-19 laboratories in the region, the EVRCTC, DWHVL, and the Ormoc Molecular Diagnostic Center. An additional one (1) confirmed case from Calbayog City was reported by the Philippine General Hospital. This represents 5.47% positivity rate.

The EVRCTC has released a total of 376 laboratory results. Of these, 957 are negative, 1 invalid, and  18 are positive for COVID-19.

Meanwhile, the DWHVL has released a total of 154 laboratory results. Of these, 138 are negative and 16 are positive (with 11 new cases and 5 re-swabs) for COVID-19.

The Ormoc Molecular Diagnostic Center has released also a total of 37 laboratory results with 36 negative and 1 positive for COVID-19.

The 31 new confirmed cases are  from the following provinces/cities/municipalities:

TACLOBAN CITY (6)

LEYTE (12)
Abuyog – 2
Baybay City – 1
Dulag – 1
Isbel – 3
Jaro – 1
La Paz – 1
Palo – 1
Palompon – 1
Tolosa – 1

SOUTHERN LEYTE (1)
Maasin City – 1

NORTHERN SAMAR (1)
     Gamay – 1

SAMAR (11)
Basey – 2
Calbayog – 8
Sta. Rita – 1

Other details will be provided by the concerned LGU.

The Department of Health appeals to the public to continue observing and practicing the minimum public health standards at all times and in all settings. Be part of the solution in ending this pandemic!
Let us BIDA Solusyon Plus sa COVID-19:
B- Bawal walang face mask at face shield
I- Isanitize ang kamay at iwasan ang kulob na lugar
D- Dumistansya ng isang metro at limitahan ang pisikal na interaksyon sa iba
A- Alamin ang tamang impormasyon, at
Plus- Suportahan ang FDA approved na bakuna.

Be a BIDA Bastonero by informing, reminding, correcting, and appreciating the public to ensure adherence to the minimum public health standards.
Together, we can #BeatCOVID-19!

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By Goddes Hope Libiran
This is Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) LtJg Mary Hazel June Obligacion, Executive Officer of Barko ng Republika ng Pilipinas (BRP) Cabra, now anchored in Palawan.

As I stand beside her inside the Navigational Bridge of the BRP Cabra, I remain in awe at how someone who looks so prim commands so much presence, and is carrying an enormous responsibility over her frail but firm shoulders. 

She is only in her late 20s, yet as the XO of the 9th MRRV of the PCG, she is the 2nd in command officer on deck in charge of keeping the Captain of the ship even keeled by taking care of all the ship's work, drills, exercises, personnel organization and the policing and inspection of the mighty vessel.

And it is women like her who inspires, and gives me the courage to push myself to explore my boundaries.

Salute to you, Lt Mary Hazel! Salute to all the empowered women of this government. Mabuhay ang Philippine Coast Guard!

#GirlPower #PhilippineCoastGuard #CoastGuardPH

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News Release: Message of PCOO Secretary Martin Andanar for the inauguration of the Mindanao Media Hub

Today, as we stand here together, within the broadcast facilities of the Mindanao Media Hub, we are writing history as we open the vast network of information dissemination in this building, which was inaugurated last December 2020.

This cannot be said often enough: the communication of truthful information is the foundation of a strong republic.

The art of reporting stories that have relevance and importance to the daily lives of our people belongs to the professional journalist, whose medium of communication is now transmitted through the advanced technological instruments contained within these rooms. We now present them to you, and to the people of Mindanao, with great honor. There are likewise several other Media Hubs, presently under construction in strategic regions— Media Hubs which will be completed within the timeline of this administration.

Our office has set the ideal of information dissemination, by establishing direct connectivity with the people, through the best methods and mechanisms of transmission as well as for obtaining feedback. Current video streaming is now a means by which direct and immediate contact may be achieved with the viewers to effect productive discourse and dialogue. This is revitalizing the democratic principle of civic participation.

We are glad to present these capabilities within the Mindanao Media Hub. Indeed, a well-informed citizenry reflects a well-informed government.

Thank you for being with us today. We are at your service, 24/7. Mabuhay and God bless!

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By National Museum Bohol
Today's #TropicalThursday, we present an economically important plant, the #Bago tree (Gnetum gnemon Linn.).

Bago tree is native to the Philippines and can also be found in tropical Asian countries. It is locally called as #Banago but Boholanos prefer to call it as "Bago". It is popular among vegetable lovers and those who love to cook especially its young shoots which is one of the main ingredients mixed along with other leafy vegetables when cooking #ginataan or #tinunuan (coconut milk) and the law-oy or #utanbisaya. It can also be prepared as salad.

Aside from its edible young shoots, the fruit can also be eaten like nut and prepared as boiled, fried or roasted. The trunk and branches can be used as firewood and in woodworks to make boxes and tool handles. Its bark fibers can be processed into rope, fishing net as well as paper products. It can also be used in landscaping as roadside verges and in gardens. In the wild, bago leaves can be source of food for animals.

Several studies also noted various nutritional benefits that can be derived from eating the young shoots of this species. It can regulate body temperature and kidney function, promote healthy hair and skin, and help regenerate cells and tissues. 

These tree species is economically and ecologically important in the sustainability of the rural communities. Attention must be given in its propagation and conservation as a sustainable source of food. In this time of pandemic, it is recommended to revert back to a plant-based food source to be healthy and physically fit in combating #COVID19.

How about you? May "bago" na ba sa pagkain mo?

#BAGOngbuhay
#MuseumFromHome
#NationalMuseumBohol
#NationalMuseumPH
#BeatCOVID19

Text by NMP Bohol with contributions from Michael Galindon | BNHD
Photos by NMP Bohol

National Museum of the Philippines (2021)

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Gov't can respond to increasing healthcare utilization rate in Metro Manila – Palace

Press Release - Presidential Spokesperson Secretary Harry Roque Jr and his resource persons at today's (March 18) press briefing — Department of Health Undersecretary Leopoldo Vega and infectious disease specialist Dr. Edsel Salvana, all agreed that the current spike in COVID-19 cases has impacted the healthcare utilization, particularly in Metro Manila, but the government can respond to the situation.

"Kung talagang maging kritikal po ang ating healthcare utilization rate, then that may justify changing our quarantine status," said Secretary Roque. However, the Palace official hopes that the situation does not reach that point because everyone is now contributing to slow down the spread of infection.

The Palace spokesman added that steps are already being taken for the projections not to come true, and that local government units already know what to do. "I'm confident na mapapabagal po natin. In fact, nakikita na natin na bumagal na ... and I think we can further slow it down gradually," said Secretary Roque.

As of latest national healthcare utilization rate, Sec. Roque said that there is still 53 percent available ICU beds, 60 percent available isolation beds, 67 percent available ward beds, and 72 percent available ventilators.

However, in Metro Manila where 47 percent of new cases are, according to Dr. Vega, there has already been an increase in utilization rate of COVID isolation beds per data from the One Hospital Command. The said data show that usage of COVID beds and isolation beds for the whole of Metro Manila is now at 54 percent already, while ICU beds usage is now close to 64 percent.

Given the current healthcare utilization rate, Usec. Vega said that the One Hospital Command can help coordinate referrals with other hospitals that still have allocation for beds, especially for moderate and severe cases.

Dr. Vega added that compared to where we were last year, hospital capacities have already increased with private hospitals already at 20 percent allocation and government hospitals allocating around 32 percent beds for COVID.

The One Hospital Command Chief also assured that they are also continuously monitoring the hospital utilization rate of some hospitals in the National Capital Region that are already bordering on high risk or about 80 percent utilization to be able to help them through coordinated care.

Dr. Vega also said that compared to last year, the country is better off now in terms of managing COVID-19, firstly because healthcare workers now know how to manage severe and moderate cases, and that we have improved capacity as hospitals now abide by the mandate to allocate certain percentage of their bed capacities for COVID-19.

He added that through the One Hospital Command they were able to do coordinated care, proper referral and even triaging and providing medical direction to all patients who need assistance.

Dr. Salvana, director of the Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology at the University of the Philippines-National Institutes of Health, likewise agreed that the country is now in a better position when it comes to managing COVID-19 cases. He said that as a doctor directly taking care of COVID-19 patients, medical frontliners now have more treatment options. Dr. Salvana also said that death rates are not increasing, and that through the One Hospital Command, patients needing assistance in terms of hospital admissions are being taken cared of.

In the same press briefing, Dr. Rommel Lobo who is a member of the National Adverse Effect Following Immunization Committee, addressed the issue of the death of a healthcare worker who has been vaccinated against COVID-19. Dr. Lobo clarified that the death of the healthcare worker was not related to the vaccination but because the person contracted COVID-19, which has worsened after the person developed an infection. ### OPS-PCOO


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JUST IN| President Rodrigo Roa Duterte led the unveiling of the one of the historical markers in Brgy. Ngolos Guiuan, Eastern Samar in conjunction to the 500th Quincentennial Commerations of the Philippine Part in the First Circumnavigation of the World.

Duterte lauded the generosity of Homonhon ancentors in the Magellan-Elcano expedition. He further stressed that the event is an opportunity for our forebearers to show unity, magnanimity and sovereinity to our foreign guests.

The President hoped to reinvigorate the historical and social civic consciousness of Filipino people specially the new generations.In addition, he  encouraged everyone to central the event  to bring history, culture and traditions closer to our hearts.

Photo via RTVM.


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The Department of Health - Eastern Visayas confirmed 1 new case of COVID-19 in the province of Northern Samar today, March 18, 2021.

The latest case is a 12-year-old female from Oriental 1 Gamay. While she is asymptomatic, she was still brought to the Community Isolation Unit where she is under quarantine.

The total COVID cases of the province is now 1,366. Of this number, 2 remain active, 1 from Allen and the recently confirmed case.
https://www.facebook.com/250689048371168/posts/3546468045459902/


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President Rodrigo Roa Duterte presides over the Joint Meeting of the National Task Force - Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict in Eastern Visayas (NTF-RTF-ELCAC VIII) at the Summit Hotel in Tacloban City, Leyte on March 18, 2021.

The meeting provides an avenue for officials to discuss the most recent accomplishments of the Task Force in Eastern Visayas, alongside topics such as the socio-economic overview and security situation in the region.

On 4 December 2018, the President issued Executive Order (EO) No. 70 that created the NTF-ELCAC and institutionalized a whole-of-nation approach towards obtaining sustainable peace in the hopes of putting an end to more than five (5) decades of local communist insurgency.

The RTF-ELCAC VIII adopted the 12 Lines of Efforts (LOEs) formulated at the national level in the implementation of its programs and projects.  Since its inception, the Task Force's regional arm continues to push for initiatives to end insurgency and develop conflict-affected areas in Eastern Visayas.

#HealAsOne
#2020DuterteVision
#DuterteLegacy
#ComfortableLifeForAll
#PartnerForChange


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LOOK: The staff of the City Management Information System Office (CMISO) helped make the Tacloban City Convention Center ready for today's distribution of land titles to Yolanda Housing Beneficiaries from St. Francis Village, North Hill Arbours, and Villa Diana.

Mayor Alfred S. Romualdez, Senators Bong Go, and Imee Marcos, along with City Government officials, will attend the event.  #cmiso #TaclobanSafeCity

Photos: Marven Octaviano


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The Inoculation Ceremony for City Health Department Workers was held earlier today, March 18.

The CHD Physicians namely Edmund B. Kierulf, M.D., M.P.H., Ma. Lourdes P. Lampong, M.D., M.P.H., John Ciriaco L. Pedida, M.D., Princess Leah V. Flores, M.D., Jerry L. Chiong, M.D., Sarah Q. Hermoso, M.D., M.P.H, and Amela C. Cam, M.D., M.P.H, were among the first batch of employees who received the Sinovac vaccine used today.

In addition, the inoculation was also administered to today's on-duty dentist and regular nurses from the department.
Source: City Government of Ormoc


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