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 30 former drug pushers graduate from Project Tulay
#PHinfo: 30 former drug pushers graduate from Project Tulay


DAVAO ORIENTAL, March 24 (PIA) – Twenty-nine Persons Trading Illegal Drugs (PTIDs) from the Municipality of Cateel and one from the Municipality of Boston have completed the first phase of the recovery program, Project Tulay, on March 19, 2021.
Certificates, special awards, gift packs, and tents from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) were turned over to the first-batch of graduates during the completion ceremony at the Balay Silangan, Sitio Magay, Barangay Don Martin Marundan, Mati City.
“I am thankful for this opportunity and to the government who helped us and treat us like family and believed that we are capable of recovering from addiction so we can be a good example and be a ‘godfather’ for our community and for the sake of our family,” one of the clients named Cyril said.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of JJV Behavioral Management Center represented by Executive Assistant, Mrs. Evelyn Ruth L. Valderrama, congratulated the graduates and encouraged them to “continue building a heart of change for building a good path, gain courage and inspiration from the family in order to fight off struggles and temptations to come.”
Project Tulay Head Argel Joseph S. Aventura expressed joy in seeing the real-life transformations brought by the program.
Acknowledging the clients, Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council (PADAC) Action Officer and Provincial Administrator Art Benjie C. Bulaong said that the PTIDs are considered as the extended family of the Balay Silangan who “bravely admitted their offenses and undergone the process for a better state of life that is free from the influence of drugs.”
On March 29, 2021, the PTIDs from the municipality of Baganga are expected to be the next batch of graduates.
Project Tulay is a 12-day in-house clinical intervention designed to give safe space for the PTIDs while providing essential clinical interventions such as psychoeducation, group therapy, motivational interviewing, and cognitive-behavior therapy at Bagong Bahay Para sa Bagong Buhay: A Balay Silangan Reformation and Outreach Drop-in Center.
It is followed by a 1-month Community Based Rehabilitation Program (CBRP) and 6-month Aftercare Program.
The program is done through the collaboration of Local Government Units (LGUs), partner institution JJVBMC and partner agencies such as the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), Philippine National Police (PNP), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and other concerned agencies. 
On February 01, 2021, personalities from the different partner agencies of Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council (PADAC) Davao Oriental gathered in Balay Silangan Conference Room, Sitio Magay, Don Martin Marundan, the City of Mati to discuss the Community Drug Rehabilitation Program and its implementation. (Jan Vincent Leuterio/PIA-XI and Mark Alvite/PIO Davao Oriental)
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References:
* Philippine Information Agency. “30 former drug pushers graduate from Project Tulay.” Philippine Information Agency. https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070461 (accessed March 24, 2021 at 10:45PM UTC+08).
* Philippine Infornation Agency. “30 former drug pushers graduate from Project Tulay.” Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070461 (archived).

Tagalog News: Huwag sumabay sa last-hour rush, paalala ng Comelec sa publiko
#PHinfo: Tagalog News: Huwag sumabay sa last-hour rush, paalala ng Comelec sa publiko

Ayon kay election officer Dennis Serveñez, likas nang mahaba ang pila sa huling araw ng voter’s registration kaya mas mainam aniya na pumunta ng maaga upang makaiwas sa siksikan. (Screengrab from Romblon News Network)ODIONGAN, Romblon, Mar. 24 (PIA) – Magparehistro ng maaga at huwag sumabay sa last-hour rush upang maiwasan ang siksikan sa mga opisina ng  Commission on Elections (Comelec).
Ito ang paalala sa publiko ni Dennis Serveñez, Comelec Officer ng bayan ng Odiongan, ngayong nasa huling anim na buwan na lang ng voter’s registration sa bansa para sa Mayo 2022 National and Local elections.
Nagsimula ang voter’s registration noong Setyembre 1, 2020 at matatapos sa Setyembre 30, 2021.
Ayon kay Serveñez, likas nang mahaba ang pila sa huling araw ng voter’s registration kaya mas mainam aniyang pumunta ng maaga upang makaiwas sa siksikan.
“Pumunta na po kayo habang hindi pa ganun kahaba ‘yung pila. Huwag na nating hintayin 'yung last-hour rush para tayo ay hindi mainip,” ayon kay Servañez nang makanapayam sa programang Talakayan ng Romblon News Network.
Sinabi pa ni Servañez na alinsunod sa guidelines ng Comelec, sa Marso 22-Abril 4, ang kanilang tanggapan ay bukas Lunes hanggang Huwebes, 8:00 ng umaga hanggang 3:00 ng hapon, para sa mga gustong magpa rehistro.
Bukas naman sila hanggang 5:00 ng hapon, sa mga gustong kumuha lamang ng voter’s certification.
Bagama’t itinigil ng ahensya ang satellite registration sa mga barangay hall at daycare center, maari pa rin naman pumunta ang publiko sa kanilang opisina.
Pinapayuhan lamang ni Servañez ang publiko na magdala na ng valid identification card at magsuot ng facemask at faceshield tuwing pupunta sa kanilang opisina.
Isa aniya itong pamamaraan upang maiwasan ang pagkalat ng coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19). (PJF/PIA-Mimaropa)
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References:
* Philippine Information Agency. “Tagalog News: Huwag sumabay sa last-hour rush, paalala ng Comelec sa publiko.” Philippine Information Agency. https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070458 (accessed March 24, 2021 at 10:17PM UTC+08).
* Philippine Infornation Agency. “Tagalog News: Huwag sumabay sa last-hour rush, paalala ng Comelec sa publiko.” Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070458 (archived).

Expanded Caravan in Zambales benefits 242 individuals
#PHinfo: Expanded Caravan in Zambales benefits 242 individuals

IBA, Zambales, March 24 (PIA) – About 242 residents benefited in the Expanded Caravan held at barangay Bamban in Masinloc, Zambales, Services offered include free haircut, voter’s registration, processing of police clearance, feeding, and distribution of food packs, slippers, and face masks and face shields.
3rd Mechanized Infantry Battalion (3rd Mech) Commander Lieutenant Colonel Eugene Henry Cabusao assured their commitment in extending government services.
“3rd Mech, through the efforts of 33rd Mechanized Infantry Company, will continuously engage all government agencies and partner with various stakeholders to bring basic services to the people and promote peace and development in our area of operation,” Cabusao said.
In addition, 33rd Mechanized Infantry Company conducted an information awareness drive regarding the seven stages of recruitment of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).
About 242 individuals benefit in the 2nd Expanded Caravan held at barangay Bamban in Masinloc, Zambales by the Philippine National Police, Philippine Army, Commission on Elections, and Barangay Councils. (3rd Mechanized Infantry Battalion)Also, they distributed education and communication materials on Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program.
In a statement, 7th Infantry Division Commander Major General Alfredo Rosario Jr. emphasized the importance of bringing services closer to the people and the Army’s role in intensifying the information awareness campaign on CPP-NPA recruitment.
“There is no definite time for government service, we are present where we are needed,” Rosario said.
“We intensify our services to become the defense and strength of our people especially amid the pandemic wherein some people take advantage of the situation,” he furthered.
This is the 2nd Expanded Caravan administered in the community by the Philippine National Police, Philippine Army, Commission on Elections, and Barangay Councils. (CLJD/GLSB-PIA 3)
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References:
* Philippine Information Agency. “Expanded Caravan in Zambales benefits 242 individuals.” Philippine Information Agency. https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070500 (accessed March 24, 2021 at 10:02PM UTC+08).
* Philippine Infornation Agency. “Expanded Caravan in Zambales benefits 242 individuals.” Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070500 (archived).

10 IPs from Mawacat finish training on electrical works
#PHinfo: 10 IPs from Mawacat finish training on electrical works

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, March 24 (PIA) – A total of 10 Indigenous Peoples from barangay Mawacat in Floridablanca, Pampanga completed their course under the Barangay Electrician Program.  The training is part of the Memorandum of Agreement between Department of National Defense and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in support to the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC). Electricians from the 355th Aviation Engineer Wing (AEW), who graduated from the Trainer’s Methodology Training of TESDA, taught the trainees on the basics of electrical works.  “This is in consonance with the new role of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Philippine National Police within the Poverty Reduction, Livelihood, and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) as skills instructors for the residents of the 882 priority barangays of NTF-ELCAC nationwide as presented during the PRLEC National Cluster Meeting,” 355th AEW Civil-Military Operations Officer First Lieutenant Argie Clarence Torralba said. The community-based training includes hands-on exercises that the instructors closely supervised while observing health protocols.  “We opted to train them with this particular skill because they do not have the skill in electrical works yet. Whenever they needed to fix something that is electrical-related, they still need to go down the mountains to hire someone to do the work for them. This way, we are teaching them how to be self-sustaining. All the participants passed the training, which makes them now eligible and capable of performing basic electrical works in the barangay,” Torralba added.
A total of 10 indigenous peoples from barangay Mawacat in Floridablanca, Pampanga finished their course under the Barangay Electrician Program. The training was facilitated by the 355th Aviation Engineering Wing, as part of the whole-of-nation approach under the Poverty Reduction, Livelihood, and Employment Cluster of the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict.  (355th AEW)For his part, TESDA Pampanga Provincial Director and Provincial PRLEC Chairperson Eric Ueda said the training is essential to the community as it will help them gain the necessary knowledge, skills, and attitudes to sustain their community.  “We will follow through the trainings already conducted with entrepreneurship training to capacitate them to conduct business enterprise with their gained knowledge in welding, bread and pastry production, organic agricultural production, and now this electrical works,” Ueda added.  Meanwhile, Ueda thanked the 355th AEW, whom he cited as their partner in nation-building.  He also urged the beneficiaries of the training program to take advantage of the skills they acquire and use them to better their lives.  “It is the desire of the government to better everyone’s conduction and we in the government with the private sector are in one with this. Hoping that you will use your learnings and newly-acquired skills for you, your community, and an asset to find work,” the director said.  Aside from the trainings, the participants will also be included in the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers program of Department of Labor and Employment. (CLJD/MJSC-PIA 3)
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References:
* Philippine Information Agency. “10 IPs from Mawacat finish training on electrical works.” Philippine Information Agency. https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070477 (accessed March 24, 2021 at 09:55PM UTC+08).
* Philippine Infornation Agency. “10 IPs from Mawacat finish training on electrical works.” Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070477 (archived).

Tagalog News: DTI Region 3, pinaigting ang mga programa para sa mga konsyumer sa kabila ng pandemya
#PHinfo: Tagalog News: DTI Region 3, pinaigting ang mga programa para sa mga konsyumer sa kabila ng pandemya

LUNGSOD SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, Marso 24 (PIA) – Inilatag ng Department of Trade and Industry o DTI Region 3 ang mga pinaigting nitong mga programa para sa mga konsyumer sa kabila ng pandemyang dulot ng COVID-19. Inilahad ni DTI Senior Trade and Industry Development Specialist Filipina Mon na nagdadaos ng mga buwanang webinars ang ahensya na umiikot sa mga paksa tulad ng Product Quality and Safety, Pyramiding Scheme o Investment Scams, Online Shopping Fraud, at Consumer Rights and Responsibilities. Aniya, naniniwala ang ahensya na ang maalam na konsyumer ay isang mabuting konsyumer kaya naman bagamat limitado ang mga aktibidad ay sinisikap nilang ipagpatuloy ang mga ito. Itinatampok din ng DTI sa kanilang programa sa radyong pinamagatang “Ang Mamimiling Pinoy” ang iba’t ibang mga adbokasiya para sa mga konsyumer.
Ibinahagi ni Department of Trade and Industry Senior Trade and Industry Development Specialist Filipina Mon na patuloy ang ahensya sa paglalatag ng programa para umagapay sa mga konsyumer sa kabila ng pandemya. (Jag Lyra D. Costamero/PIA 3)Samantala, patuloy pa rin ang Diskwento Caravan upang umagapay sa presyong panalo para sa mga mamimiling Pilipino. Ani Mon, ito ay naka-iskedyul na umikot sa iba’t-ibang mga bayan at lungsod sa rehiyon. Bukod pa rito, mayroon ding Redress Mechanism o Virtual Mediation Conference ang ahensya na isang inobasyon para sa kaligtasan at proteksyon hindi lamang ng mga konsyumer kundi pati na rin ng mga seller. Paliwanag ni Mon, ang nabanggit na programa ay isang birtwal na kapulungan gamit ang online platforms tulad ng Zoom at Facebook Messenger na nakadepende sa pasilidad at gamit na mayroon ang mga lalahok. Upang masiguro ang pagsunod sa presyo ng mga establisyemento, nagsasagawa rin ang ahensya ng regular na Price and Supply Monitoring. (CLJD/JLDC-PIA 3)
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References:
* Philippine Information Agency. “Tagalog News: DTI Region 3, pinaigting ang mga programa para sa mga konsyumer sa kabila ng pandemya.” Philippine Information Agency. https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070476 (accessed March 24, 2021 at 09:49PM UTC+08).
* Philippine Infornation Agency. “Tagalog News: DTI Region 3, pinaigting ang mga programa para sa mga konsyumer sa kabila ng pandemya.” Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070476 (archived).

Angeleños urged to get COVID-19 jabs
#PHinfo: Angeleños urged to get COVID-19 jabs

ANGELES CITY, March 24 (PIA) – Medical officers urged Angeleños to get vaccinated against COVID-19. Rafael Lazatin Memorial Medical Center Officer-in-Charge Froilan Canlas and City Health Officer Verona Guevarra, who are both heads of the local Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases, both said that this is in consonance with the city government’s call for an immunized city.  To allay fears of residents from getting the COVID-19 jabs, the city government intensified its vaccination information drive wherein the two doctors discussed Frequently Asked Questions about the vaccines. “This is the start of the end of the pandemic. Let us all be part of the solution, and the only way to do this is to be inoculated,” Canlas said.  The two doctors also shared their experiences after getting the jabs, saying that only 1 in 10 vaccinees will experience side effects.
Angeles City Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases echoes the call of the Mayor Carmelo Lazatin, Jr. of an immunized city against COVID-19, by urging residents to get vaccinated. (Angeles City Information Office)“These side effects are normal. Like any vaccine, when you get the flu or pneumonia vaccine for example, there are side-effects such as fever, pain on the injection sites, fever with chills or fever only. On the other hand, it doesn’t mean that the vaccine is not effective if you don’t feel any side effect,” Guevarra said.  The two also warned the public about misinformation on COVID-19 vaccines, especially on social media.  “Do not be afraid of the vaccine because it is the sole exclusive solution to a pandemic,” Canlas said.  Meanwhile, Guevarra reminded Angeleños to strictly observe the minimum public health standards while waiting for the vaccines to arrive. “Let us help the government in controlling the transmission of COVID-19 by wearing face masks and face shields when going out of our houses, regularly wash hands and observe physical distancing. In this small way, we can make a big impact in reducing the number of infections,” she said. (CLJD/MJSC-PIA 3)
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References:
* Philippine Information Agency. “Angeleños urged to get COVID-19 jabs.” Philippine Information Agency. https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070340 (accessed March 24, 2021 at 09:44PM UTC+08).
* Philippine Infornation Agency. “Angeleños urged to get COVID-19 jabs.” Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070340 (archived).

DICT, partners collaborate for Innovative Startup Ecosystem
#PHinfo: DICT, partners collaborate for Innovative Startup Ecosystem


QUEZON CITY, March 24 (PIA) – The Department of Information Communications Technology (DICT) collaborated with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to constitute the Steering Committee for the implementation and development of the Philippine Startup Ecosystem during the virtual signing of a joint administrative order on March 22.
The Implementing Rules and  Regulations (IRR) of the  Republic Act No. 11337, known as the ‘IRR of the Innovative Startup Act,’ provides guidelines to create new jobs and opportunities, improve production, advance innovation, and trade in the country.
Startup enablers are also encouraged to establish and operate new businesses, promote and develop companies’ ecosystems by developing innovative processes such as significantly improved production or delivery method through techniques, equipment, and software. Innovative products and creative work are also undertaken on a systematic basis through research and development.
In a statement, DICT Undersecretary Emmanuel Rey R. Caintic expressed support to the young entrepreneurs and urged them to build their entrepreneurial empire.
“I urge and pray that you will have the perseverance in which to start your journey and build your empire. The government is here to support you with your endeavors and our friends from the DTI and the DOST. (ARR/PIA-IDPD)
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References:
* Philippine Information Agency. “DICT, partners collaborate for Innovative Startup Ecosystem.” Philippine Information Agency. https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070489 (accessed March 24, 2021 at 09:44PM UTC+08).
* Philippine Infornation Agency. “DICT, partners collaborate for Innovative Startup Ecosystem.” Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070489 (archived).

DFA calls on China for unauthorized presence of fishing vessels in WPS
#PHinfo: DFA calls on China for unauthorized presence of fishing vessels in WPS

CaptionQUEZON CITY, Mar. 24 (PIA) – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) called on China for the unauthorized and lingering presence of Chinese fishing vessels and maritme assets at Julian Felipe Reef (Whitsun Reef), 175 nautical miles west of Bataraza, Palawan.
“Julian Felipe Reef in the Kalayaan Island Group lies in the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone. We reiterate that the continued deployment, lingering presence, and activities of Chinese vessels in the Philippine maritime zones blatantly infringe upon Philippine sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction,” DFA said in a statement Tuesday, March 23, 2021.
The Philippine government demanded China’s prompt withdrawal of its fishing vessels and maritime assets in the vicinity and adjacent waters of relevant features in the Kalayaan Group of Islands in the West Philippine Sea. 
Further, the DFA emphasized that the Philippine government’s persistent and relentless protests run in contrast to China’s commitments under international law and the ASEAN-China Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea.
“The Philippines calls on China to faithfully honor its obligations as a State Party to the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and to respect and abide by the final and guiding 12 July 2016 Award in the South China Sea Arbitration,” DFA said. (MTQ/PIA-IDPD)
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References:
* Philippine Information Agency. “DFA calls on China for unauthorized presence of fishing vessels in WPS.” Philippine Information Agency. https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070493 (accessed March 24, 2021 at 09:40PM UTC+08).
* Philippine Infornation Agency. “DFA calls on China for unauthorized presence of fishing vessels in WPS.” Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070493 (archived).

Tagalog News: LGU Cabanatuan, ipinanawagan ang kooperasyon sa ipinatutupad na mga karagdagang polisiya kontra COVID-19
#PHinfo: Tagalog News: LGU Cabanatuan, ipinanawagan ang kooperasyon sa ipinatutupad na mga karagdagang polisiya kontra COVID-19

LUNGSOD NG CABANATUAN, Marso 24 (PIA) – Ipinanawagan ng pamahalaang lungsod ng Cabanatuan ang kooperasyon ng lahat sa ipinatutupad na mga karagdagang polisya kontra sa pagkalat ng COVID-19. Ayon kay Mayor Myca Elizabeth Vergara, nakababahala ang pagtaas ng bilang ng mga nagkakasakit ng COVID-19 sa siyudad kung kaya’t minabuti ng lokal na pamahalaang magkaroon ng mga karagdagang panuntunan na ipatutupad hanggang sa ika-apat ng Abril taong kasalukuyan. Aniya, ang dalawang linggong ito ay hindi lockdown period dahil kinakailangang magpatuloy pa din sa paghahanapbuhay ang mga mamamayan upang may panggastos sa pang-araw araw na pamumuhay.   Pahayag ng alkalde, ginagawa ng tanggapang ang lahat upang mapababa ang bilang ng mga nagkakasakit ng COVID-19 sa siyudad ngunit mawawalang bisa ang lahat ng pagod at inisyatibo ng pamahalaan kung wala ang kooperasyon at tulong ng mga mamamayan. Kaniyang patuloy na paalala, kung wala namang mahalagang lalakarin ay huwag nang lumabas ng tahanan at kung hindi maiiwasang umalis ng bahay ay tiyaking nasusunod ang mga minimum health standards na pagsusuot ng face mask at face shield gayundin ang pagsasagawa ng social distancing. Ilan sa mga nakapaloob sa Executive Order No. 010-2021 sa lungsod ng Cabanatuan ay ang pagbabawal na lumabas sa mga kabataang nasa edad 18 pababa at ang mga senior citizen na edad 65 pataas.
Kabilang din sa mga ipinagbabawal ay ang pagdaraos ng mga pagtitipon o face to face meetings kasama na ang mga pagtitipon sa mga pagsamba o kapilya. Ang mga okasyong kagaya ng binyag, kasal o libing ay papayagan ngunit hanggang sa 10 katao lamang ang dadalo.
Si Cabanatuan City Mayor Myca Elizabeth Vergara. (PIA 3 File Photo)Mananatili namang 50 porsyento ang operational capacity ng mga essential at non-essential services na mga nagnenegosyo sa siyudad gayundin ang pagtanggap ng mga kliyente ng mga dine-in restaurants at personal care services.  Nakapaloob din sa nasabing kautusan ang pansamantalang suspensiyon ng mga driving schools, traditional cinemas, game arcades, libraries, archives, museums at cultural centers, cockfighting and cockpit operations sa siyudad.  Kaugnay naman sa madaling pagtatala ng mga may sakit ng COVID-19 ay kinakailangang makipag-ugnayan ang mga pribadong laboratory o mga ospital na nagsasagawa ng antigen at RT-PCR test sa City Health Office para sa mga naiuulat ng mga nagkakasakit na pasyente.  Ang lahat naman ng mga magsisiuwi o tutungo sa lungsod ng Cabanatuan na hindi kabilang sa APOR o Authorized Persons Outside Residence ay kinakailangang may maipresentang medical clearance certificate na mula sa mga lokal na pamahalaang panggagalingan at antigen test negative result na isinagawa dalawang araw bago pumasok sa siyudad. Maaaring isumbong ang mga lalabag sa mga kautusan mula sa mga hotline na 09178511320 at 09088811010 o kaya ay magpadala ng mensahe sa opisyal na social media account ng pamahalaang lungsod ng Cabanatuan.  Samantala, isasara ang City Hall nang dalawang araw simula bukas, ika-25 ng Marso upang bigyang daan ang patuloy na pagsasagawa ng antigen testing sa lahat ng mga kawani at ang disinfection sa punong tanggapan dahil sa mga naiulat na nagkasakit na empleyado. Ang mga bukas lamang na tanggapan ng City Hall ay ang City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, City Social Welfare and Development, City Health Office, at Manuel V. Gallego Cabanatuan City General Hospital upang patuloy na magbigay serbisyo sa mga nangangailangang mamamayan.  Batay sa datos ng pamahalaang lungsod noong March 22 ay nasa 59 ang aktibong kaso ng COVID-19 sa siyudad na kung saan ang kabuuang bilang ng mga nagkasakit ay tumungtong na sa 747.  (CLJD/CCN-PIA 3)

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References:
* Philippine Information Agency. “Tagalog News: LGU Cabanatuan, ipinanawagan ang kooperasyon sa ipinatutupad na mga karagdagang polisiya kontra COVID-19.” Philippine Information Agency. https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070474 (accessed March 24, 2021 at 09:39PM UTC+08).
* Philippine Infornation Agency. “Tagalog News: LGU Cabanatuan, ipinanawagan ang kooperasyon sa ipinatutupad na mga karagdagang polisiya kontra COVID-19.” Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070474 (archived).

Tagalog News: Face to face transaction sa Kapitolyo ng Bulacan, lilimitahan 
#PHinfo: Tagalog News: Face to face transaction sa Kapitolyo ng Bulacan, lilimitahan 

LUNGSOD NG MALOLOS, Marso 24 (PIA) – Susubukan ng pamahalaang panlalawigan ang pagiging epektibo ng service dropbox system sa pagbibigay ng serbisyo sa mga Bulakenyo upang maiwasan ang face-to-face transaction ngayon panahon ng pandemya ng COVID-19. Apat na araw ipapatupad ito na nagsimula nitong Martes matapos magpalabas ng isang Executive Order si Gobernador Daniel Fernando para sa mahigpit na pagpapatupad ng minimum health protocol base sa Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases Resolution No. 104. Ayon kay Fernando, isasara ang entradang pintuan ng Kapitolyo at bubuksan na lamang ang likod na bahagi ng gusali kung saan may mga inilagay na tent at silya upang patuloy pa rin makapagbigay ng serbisyo sa mga Bulakenyo. Sa pamamagitan nito aniya ay sisikapin nilang maipagkaloob pa rin ang paglilingkod nang hindi muna nagkakaroon ng physical contact o face-to-face transaction ang kliyente at mga kawani ng tanggapang nagkakaloob ng serbisyo.
Si Bulacan Governor Daniel Fernando. (PPAO)Ang bawat tanggapan ay maglalaan ng transparent dropbox na may proper labelling ng mga kahilingan at kakailanganing dokumento sa pamahalaang panlalawigan. Gagawin ito upang maproteksyonan din ang mga kawani ng Kapitolyo laban sa COVID-19. Gagamitin din ang makabagong teknolohiya gamit ang iba’t ibang social media platforms upang mai-promote ang iba’t ibang serbisyo ng pamahalaang panlalawigan. Ginawa ang bagong istratehiya matapos ang lalawigan ay naibalik sa General Community Quarantine kasama ng National Capital Region, Cavite, Rizal at Laguna. (CLJD/VFC-PIA 3)
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References:
* Philippine Information Agency. “Tagalog News: Face to face transaction sa Kapitolyo ng Bulacan, lilimitahan .” Philippine Information Agency. https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070466 (accessed March 24, 2021 at 09:31PM UTC+08).
* Philippine Infornation Agency. “Tagalog News: Face to face transaction sa Kapitolyo ng Bulacan, lilimitahan .” Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070466 (archived).

149 farmers finally won land ownership after 27 years
#PHinfo: 149 farmers finally won land ownership after 27 years

LEGAZPI CITY, March 24 (PIA5) – About 149 farmers finally received 81.85-hectare government-awarded hacienda in Pili, Camarines Sur after 27 years of a life-long judicial clamor against a private corporation.
Gregorio Padua holds his certificate of land ownership in pursuant to DAR AO 2 series 2020 under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program. (DAR photo)Maria Gracia R. Sales, Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer II, said the farmer-beneficiaries have now taken possession of 81.85-hectare agricultural land in Barangay Cadlan, Pili after a prevailed long-time fight with its former owner, a press release from Department of Agrarian said, was the Manubay Agro Industrial and Development Corporation (MANDECOR).
These agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARB) acquired their certificates of land ownership, obligations and duties at an installation ceremony last February 26.
“Our Land Tenure Services personnel at both the provincial and municipal levels had worked tirelessly for the past twenty-seven years to bring the activity to a successful conclusion,” Sales said.
The Department of Agrarian Reform 9DAR) under its Administrative Order No. 2, series of 2020 speeds up the delay in the distribution of lands to these ARBs.
The installation of 149 farmers to the government-awarded land was escorted by about 150 soldiers to ensure a peaceful process of turn-over. (DAR photo)Sales hopes good stewardship of these  lands saying, “May these ARBs grow into responsible stewards of the land that has been entrusted to them. I hope they take good care of their lands and keep them productive.“
For Arturo Bismonte, the farmer’s representative, the strong outcry of the farmers was heard by the government and from it, they saw a glimpse of reality. He said, “The blood and sweat of our forefathers who persevered in tilling and cultivating this soil have stained these lands. That is why it was never difficult for any of us to put our lives on the line in order to realize our dream of claiming this land as our own.”
“We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to [the management of] DAR Camarines Sur II for sticking with us through the tough years. Their perseverance paid off, and we could witness the final stage of the CARP process. We are indeed very happy and grateful to finally be coming home,” Bismonte expressed. (PIA 5)
***

References:
* Philippine Information Agency. “149 farmers finally won land ownership after 27 years.” Philippine Information Agency. https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070446 (accessed March 24, 2021 at 07:46PM UTC+08).
* Philippine Infornation Agency. “149 farmers finally won land ownership after 27 years.” Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070446 (archived).

Bicol River Basin commences rehab after ceremonial dredging, bamboo planting activity
#PHinfo: Bicol River Basin commences rehab after ceremonial dredging, bamboo planting activity

Photo credits: DCaballero-PIARO5 CAMALIGAN, Camarines Sur, March 24 (PIA) – The ceremonial dredging and bamboo planting yesterday held in this municipality, March 23, Tuesday signals the commencement of the Bicol River Basin Restoration Project that would minimize flood risk and restore the natural state and flow of the said waterways.
Under the Build Back Better Task Force (BBB Task Force), created through Executive Order 120 signed by President Duterte last Nov. 18, all government agencies with specific roles in the river rehab, will closely coordinate with the LGU and the provincial government to “heal” the 94-kilometer stretch of the Bicol River and ensure that rehab efforts will be immediately carried out.
It will be recalled that the past typhoons that battered the Bicol Region, especially the municipalities of Camarines Sur, caused heavy flooding and inundated most of the barangays in flood-prone barangays and even swamped most of the rivers and spillways causing them to overflow and to be rendered unpassable.
Gov. Migz to create Bicol River Development Council
Camarines Sur Governor Miguel Villafuerte extended his gratitude to President Rodrigo Duterte for heeding his request to make the immediate rehabilitation of the Bicol River Basin as a priority project. He pointed out that the Basin overflowed every time there is a strong typhoon or even during a heavy downpour which he said is one of the reasons for the occurrence of severe flooding, not just in Camarines Sur but also in the neighboring provinces.   
Camarines Sur Governor Miguel “Migz” Villafuerte during the Builld Back Better Task Force Ceremonial Dredging and Bamboo Planting ceremony held March 23, 2020 ,  Camaligan, Camarines Sur (PHoto credits: Danica Caballero-PIARO5)  “This week, I will be signing an executive order creating a Bicol River Development Council. This will be composed of council members and co-partners such as the DPWH, DENR, NHA, Provincial Government of CamSur and other agencies which will have a significant role in the rehabilitation of the Bicol River Basin,” Villafuerte added.
Villafuerte gratefully said that from a vision, the rehab project is now a reality.
“It is very important that we build back better the Bicol River because it is not only the 8th largest river in the entire Philippines, but because hundreds of barangays and three provinces will benefit from this project. The most important thing now is to fix, develop, dredge and promote it,” the governor added.    
Under the rehab plan, some 58,235 cubic meters of deposited silt or sludge will be removed from the middle portion of Bicol River in Camaligan.
Whole of Nation Approach
BBB Task Force is a whole-government post-disaster rehab and recovery program of the government that endeavors to strengthen rehabilitation and recovery efforts in typhoon-hit areas. It is a collaborative effort of 25 to 27 national government agencies.  
Some of the agencies involved in the BBBTF include DPWH, National Housing Authority (NHA), Dept. of Human Settlement, National Economic Development Authority (NEDA), Office of the Civil Defense, Office of the Presidential Adviser for Bicol Affairs and the local government of Camaligan headed by Mayor Marilou Hirose and the provincial government of Camarines Sur, among others.
BBB Task Force is divided into different key result areas (KRAs).
KRA1 will be spearheaded by DPWH whose area of focus will be the dredging of the river system.  KRA2 will be under the Dept. of Human Settlement and Development (DHSUD). They are in charge of looking for a safe place where vulnerable communities living in risk areas can transfer. KRA3’s lead agency is the Department of National Defense (DND) for the restoration of lifelines after a disaster such as communication lines, transportation and electricity.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is in charge of KRA4 where they will focus on the livelihood projects for those affected by calamities; KRA5 is all about governance and will be spearheaded by DILG. They have to check on the compliance of LGUs in implementing their comprehensive land use plans and lastly, the KRA6 where DENR will take the lead, will be in charge of river bank restoration and ensure that environment laws are enforced.  (with reports from ACarinan, PIA5/Camarines Sur)

***

References:
* Philippine Information Agency. “Bicol River Basin commences rehab after ceremonial dredging, bamboo planting activity.” Philippine Information Agency. https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070450 (accessed March 24, 2021 at 07:37PM UTC+08).
* Philippine Infornation Agency. “Bicol River Basin commences rehab after ceremonial dredging, bamboo planting activity.” Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070450 (archived).

Tagalog News: 3 iskolar ng LGU Palawan, doktor na
#PHinfo: Tagalog News: 3 iskolar ng LGU Palawan, doktor na 

Ang tatlong bagong mga doktor na iskolar ng Pamahalaang Panlalawigan ng Palawan (Larawan mula sa PIO Palawan)PUERTO PRINCESA, Palawan, Mar. 24 (PIA) – Nadagdagan ng tatlong bagong mga doktor ang magseserbisyo sa Palawan, matapos na pumasa sa Physician Licensure Examination ang tatlo pang scholar ng Pamahalaang Panlalawigan ng Palawan nitong Marso.
Ang mga bagong Palaweñong doktor ay sina Dr. Micah Abigail S. Jamandre mula sa Bgy. Tenga-Tenga sa bayan ng Cuyo, Dr. Kristine May V. Razote ng Alfonso XIII sa munisipyo ng Quezon, at Dr. Daphnie Marie M. Yayen ng Bgy. San Jose, lungsod ng Puerto Princesa.
Sila ay benepisyaryo ng scholarship grant ng pamahalaang panlalawigan para sa mga kumukuha ng kursong medisina sa ilalim ng programang Libreng Edukasyon para sa Palaweño.
Labing-tatlong mga iskolar pa ang inaasahan kukuha ng licensure examination bago matapos ang taong 2021.
Mayroon nang 33 na naging doktor ang Palawan na benepisyaryo ng naturang scholarship grant.  Nagsimula ang nasabing scholarship program noong 2014 at umaabot na sa 174 ang kabuuang bilang ng mga benepisyaryo nito kabilang na ang mga pumasang bagong doktor.
Nagpapatuloy din ang pamahalaang panlalawigan sa pagsuporta sa mga Palaweñong kumukuha ng kursong medisina at iba pang kurso na may kaugnayan dito tulad ng Nursing, Medical Technologist, Pharmacy, Radiologic Technology, Midwifery at iba pa.
Ang mga naunang naging doktor ay nagseserbisyo na sa mga bagong ospital na nasa pamamahala ng pamahalaang panlalawigan. (OCJ/PIA-MIMAROPA, Palawan)
***

References:
* Philippine Information Agency. “Tagalog News: 3 iskolar ng LGU Palawan, doktor na .” Philippine Information Agency. https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070451 (accessed March 24, 2021 at 06:48PM UTC+08).
* Philippine Infornation Agency. “Tagalog News: 3 iskolar ng LGU Palawan, doktor na .” Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070451 (archived).

AFP turns over 4 Kidnap Victims to Indonesian Government
#PHinfo: AFP turns over 4 Kidnap Victims to Indonesian Government

PASIG CITY, March 24 (PIA) – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday turned over four Indonesian kidnap victims to Indonesian Government authorities at the General Headquarters Canopy Area.
“The kidnap victims have been held captive by the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) for more than a year and through the AFP’s relentless efforts, the ASG who were based in Sulu, were driven out of their comfort zones and mass base, which eventually led to the successful rescue operation last week in Tawi-Tawi,” AFP Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Cirilito Sobejana told the PIA-NCR.
Lieutenant General Sobejana led the turnover ceremony together with Police Lieutenant General Guillermo Eleazar, Officer-in-Charge of the Philippine National Police.
The Indonesian Embassy led by Charge d’affaires, Widya Rahmanto received the kidnap victims. Also present were Indonesian Defense Attaché, Colonel Reza Suud; Army Attaché, Colonel Sigit Himawan.
The four Indonesians Riswanto Bin Hayono, Arical Kastamiran, Arsyad Bin Dahalan, and Khairuldin Bin Yai Kii were flown via the Philippine Air Force C-130 aircraft from Edwin Andrews Air Base in Zamboanga City to Manila on Sunday. Personnel from the Western Mindanao Command provided security and assistance during their transport.
Hayono, Kastamiran and Dahalan were among the rescued individuals in South Ubian, Tawi-Tawi evening of Thursday, March 18 by Tandubas Police. The 15-year old Yai Kii on the other hand was rescued by elements of the Joint Task Force Tawi-Tawi on Sunday in Kalupag Island, Languyan, Tawi-Tawi.
“This noteworthy accomplishment was a concerted effort with our counterparts from the Philippine National Police and the Local Government Units in Sulu and Tawi-Tawi. It is a clear manifestation that through cooperation and vigilant support from various stakeholders – through a whole-of-nation approach – we can effectively fight and prevent the spread of terrorism,” said Lieutenant General Sobejana.
While receiving the KVs, Charge d'Affairs of Indonesia to the Philippines extended his highest appreciation to the Government of the Philippines and all respective agencies for rescuing the victims. He conveyed the acknowledgement of the Indonesian Government for the sincere effort and extraordinary courage of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippines National Police in conducting the rescue operation.
‘On behalf of the Government of Indonesia, we are forever grateful for the support and immediate actions to save the victims’, said the Charge d'Affairs.
On January 17, 2020, Abu Sayyaf terrorists led by sub-leaders Ben Wagas, Apo Mike and Injam Yadah abducted five Indonesians off of the waters of Tambisan, Malaysia. They were brought to Patikul, Sulu where they experienced 13 encounters between government troops and their captors.
In one of the encounters on September 28, 2020, operating troops recovered the dead body of one Indonesian named Daeng Akbal Labaa during clearing operations. He was believed to have died of a heart attack. The cadaver was later turned over to Indonesian authorities.
“Given the lessons learned in the past, the AFP has fully recognized that we need to operate, not just as an instrument of war and a tool of policy but as a vital partner in nation-building, as we endeavor to sustain peace and stability for current and future generations of Filipinos,” the AFP Chief said. (PIA NCR)
***

References:
* Philippine Information Agency. “AFP turns over 4 Kidnap Victims to Indonesian Government.” Philippine Information Agency. https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070383 (accessed March 24, 2021 at 12:29AM UTC+08).
* Philippine Infornation Agency. “AFP turns over 4 Kidnap Victims to Indonesian Government.” Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070383 (archived).

Bagabag to roll out  'Solid Waste Mgt. on Wheels' project
#PHinfo: Bagabag to roll out  ‘Solid Waste Mgt. on Wheels’ project

BAGABAG, Nueva Vizcaya, March 24 (PIA) - The local government unit here will be implementing its Solid Waste Management on Wheels Project (SWMWP) to turn wastes into income generating materials.
Aileen Pantaleon, Municipal Solid Waste Management officer said the SWMWP involves the use of a truck equipped with solid waste processors and a generator set that will be dispatched to their barangays to process various types of wastes.
The P22.8 million SWM truck has a solid waste crusher and food wastes processor for the production of materials for livelihood purposes.
“This will be a big help in decreasing our solid wastes in our municipality since this solid waste processing truck will visit our barangays from time to time to turn wastes into profitable materials and products,” Pantaleon said.
She added that part of the packaged SWMWP truck are six additional solid waste equipment and machines that will process bigger solid waste at their Materials Recovery Facility (MRF).
Mayor Johnny Sevillena said the acquisition of the equipment was fully supported by the Sangguniang Bayan Members through Vice Mayor Benigno Calauad.
“This project aims to improve the efficiency of collection of garbage and other solid wastes within our municipality. This machine works by grinding bottles and plastics into solid and liquid partitions, to be used as fertilizers and a way to create paving blocks,” he added. (MDCT/BME/PIA 2-Nueva Vizcaya)
***

References:
* Philippine Information Agency. “Bagabag to roll out  'Solid Waste Mgt. on Wheels’ project.” Philippine Information Agency. https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070294 (accessed March 24, 2021 at 05:58PM UTC+08).
* Philippine Infornation Agency. “Bagabag to roll out  'Solid Waste Mgt. on Wheels’ project.” Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070294 (archived).

DAR splits ARB’s collectively-owned lands into individual titles
#PHinfo: DAR splits ARB’s collectively-owned lands into individual titles

SAN FERNANDO CITY, Mar. 24 (PIA) – The Department of Agrarian Reform, through the Support to Parcelization of Lands for Individual Titling (SPLIT) Project, will subdivide collectively-awarded lands to Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) to provide them with individual titles.

This SPLIT Project is funded by the World Bank which aims to fast-track the land subdivision or parcelization of the Collective Certificates of Land Ownership Award given among agrarian reform beneficiaries organizations (ARBOs).

“The objective of this project is to improve the land tenure security and strengthen the rights of agrarian reform beneficiaries,” said Regional Director Primo Lara during a radio interview over PIA’s Tugstugan at Balitaan.

Lara added, “We have to parcelize the collective title so that our ARBs included in that collective title would know the exact land area and exact location of the property, improving their land tenure security.”

The individual land titles would be processed and issued for free.

Upon parcelization, DAR will extend technical assistance and support services among the ARBs to help them cultivate their lands.  

Lara said the project is not only geared on the parcelization per se but as well as on uplifting the economic status of farmer-beneficiaries.

He also cited that this project would also be beneficial to the economy as it would increase revenues and would create numerous employment opportunities.

“Magkakaroon na rin sila ng payment of real property tax. In that way, this project would also improve the revenue of their respective municipalities since the local government will collect their taxes,” he said.

“We will be filling up positions for the SPLIT Project Team which includes legal officers, geodetic engineers and document processors,” he further explained.

Meanwhile, DAR targets to parcelize a total of 185 land holdings in La Union covering 1,438 hectares of land while six SPLIT Project Team composed of five personnel will be hired in the province. (JCR/VHS/CGC, PIA La Union) 
***

References:
* Philippine Information Agency. “DAR splits ARB’s collectively-owned lands into individual titles.” Philippine Information Agency. https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070404 (accessed March 24, 2021 at 05:37PM UTC+08).
* Philippine Infornation Agency. “DAR splits ARB’s collectively-owned lands into individual titles.” Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070404 (archived).

Confidence level in vaccine rises in Pangasinan
#PHinfo: Confidence level in vaccine rises in Pangasinan

LINGAYEN,Pangasinan Mar 24 (PIA) - - The Provincial Health Office (PHO) here announced that confidence level of Pangasinenses in the COVID-19 vaccines have significantly increased.

Dr. Anna De Guzman,  provincial health officer, said that some 1,758 health workers out of 2,937 in the 14 government-run hospitals have already been vaccinated as of March 22.

This, she noted, translates to over 59 percent  accomplishment out of the eligible target population for vaccination.

“The confidence level is rising at nakikita naman nila na wala naman negative side effects ang bakuna.” said Dr. De Guzman during the web-based question hour conducted during the 60th regular session of the Pangasinan Provincial Board.
RESBAKUNA. Personnel of the Provincial Heath Office (PHO) led by Dr. Anna De Guzman (4th from left) gestures the Resbakuna sign after getting their shots of the COVID-19 vaccine. (Photo courtesy of Pangasinan PIO)
In a report released by the Provincial Information Office, some 1,462 health workers from private hospitals have been vaccinated while two rural health units (RHUs) specifically the Lingayen RHU has vaccinated 203 frontline health workers and Bani RHU has vaccinated 40.

De Guzman noted that the vaccine is an extra layer of protection against COVID-19, thus she urged the public to still maintain the minimum health standards such as wearing of face mask, face shield, and social distancing even when vaccinated.

“Ito pong benepisyo ng bakuna ay dagdag na layer ng proteksyon para sa ating mga health workers. Hindi po ibig sabihin na kung kayo po ay nabakunahan ay hindi na po natin oobserbahan iyong minimum health standard po natin,” she said in an earlier interview.

Meanwhile in Dagupan City, some 4,000 individuals  to include personnel of the City Health Office, City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management office, barangay nurses, social workers from orphanages, dentists and employees of health care-institutions like laboratories, clinic and dialysis centers  in the city, have been vaccinated.

Employees  of the Bureau of Jail Management  and Penology (BJMP) were the first group pf uniformed personnel  and national government agency to take part in the vaccination program of the city. (JCR/VHS/PIA Pangasinan)
***

References:
* Philippine Information Agency. “Confidence level in vaccine rises in Pangasinan.” Philippine Information Agency. https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070402 (accessed March 24, 2021 at 05:35PM UTC+08).
* Philippine Infornation Agency. “Confidence level in vaccine rises in Pangasinan.” Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070402 (archived).

Higit 250 na katao sa Zinundungan Valley, nabenepisyuhan ng serbisyong medikal
#PHinfo: Higit 250 na katao sa Zinundungan Valley, nabenepisyuhan ng serbisyong medikal

LAL-LO, Cagayan, Marso 24 (PIA) - Nagpapasalamat ang higit 250 na residente ng barangay Bural sa bayan ng Rizal matapos silang mabenepisyuhan ng libreng serbisyong medikal at mahatiran ng tulong noong ika-21 ng Marso taong kasalukuyan.
Maituturing na pinakaliblib na lugar ang barangay Bural sa Zinundungan Valley kaya madalang na nakakapagpakonsulta ng kanilang kalusugan ang mga residente.
Naisagawa ang nasabing medical mission sa pagtutulungan ng 17th Infantry Battalion, 501st Infantry Brigade, Civil-Military Operations Battalion, ng Cagayan State University Scintilla Juris Professional Confraternity, nina Dr. Leon Caculitan at Dr. Vion Guzman at iba pang volunteers.
Sa tala ng 17IB, 250 indibidwal ang nakatanggap ng libreng check-up samantalang 22 naman ang nabenepisyuhan ng libreng tuli at gupit.
Namigay din ng school supplies ang Kabataan Kontra sa Droga at Terorismo (KKDAT) at nakatanggap din ang mga residente ng relief goods mula sa 17IB.
Bago isinagawa ang nasabing medical mission, nagkaroon ng pagpupulong ang mga residente sa nasabing barangay kasama ang lokal na pamahalaan ng Rizal, Pamahalaang Panlalawigan ng Cagayan, KKDAT at ng 17IB upang malaman at matugunan ang kani-kanilang mga hinaing.
Nabatid na ginagamit ng mga mga teroristang Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) ang mga hinaing ng mga residente upang sila ay marekrut at mapasampa sa kanilang kilusan. Dito, muling binigyang linaw sa mga residente ang mga programa at proyekto ng pamahalaan na solusyon sa kanilang mga hinaing.
Maliban dito, nagkaroon din ng symposium ang Hands Of Our Children (HOOC) Movement na pinangunahan ni Gng. Luisa Espina, HOOC vice chairperson upang pangaralan ang mga kabataan at paalalahanan ang mga magulang sa mga panlilinlang ng mga teroristang CPP-NPA upang makapagrekrut.
Naging emosyonal ang mga kinatawan ng HOOC nang maibahagi ang kanilang mga naging karanasan sa loob ng rebeldeng kilusan at kung papaano sinira ng mga rebeldeng CPP-NPA ang kanilang pamilya.
Kaugnay nito, sa pangunguna ni Angel Talosig, presidente ng Youth for Peace-Cagayan, nagkaroon ang grupo ng presentasyon sa pamamagitan ng dula-dulaan upang ipakita ang kahihinatnan ng pagsali sa teroristang grupo.
“Layunin ng Youth for Peace-Cagayan na maprotektahan ang katulad naming mga kabataan sa pang-aabuso ng mga NPA. Marami ng nabiktimang mga kabataan ang NPA at hindi na tayo makapapayag pa may susunod pa. Batid natin na sila ang sumisira sa kinabukasan ng mga kabataan. Kung kaya, sa pamamagitan ng pagkakataong mayroon ang Youth for Peace, kaisa kami sa pagprotekta sa kabataan sa probinsya ng Cagayan. Kaisa kami sa pagtatakwil ng mga rebeldeng NPA sa aming mahal na lalawigan at kaagapay kami sa paglaban sa terorismo sa Cagayan,” ani Talosig.
Samantala, pinasalamatan naman ni Lt. Col. Angelo Saguiguit, commanding officer ng 17IB ang mga tumulong sa naging matagumpay na medical mission.
Aniya, sa pamamagitan nito naipapakita ang Whole-of-Nation Approach na kung saan, sa pagtutulungan ng bawat isa, naipaparating sa kanayunan ang mga serbisyo ng pamahalaan katulad nalamang ng libreng medikal. (MDCT/PIA-2)
***

References:
* Philippine Information Agency. “Higit 250 na katao sa Zinundungan Valley, nabenepisyuhan ng serbisyong medikal.” Philippine Information Agency. https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070467 (accessed March 24, 2021 at 05:22PM UTC+08).
* Philippine Infornation Agency. “Higit 250 na katao sa Zinundungan Valley, nabenepisyuhan ng serbisyong medikal.” Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070467 (archived).

Antique SP cites gains on gender, development
#PHinfo: Antique SP cites gains on gender, development

SAN JOSE, Antique , March 24 (PIA) - -  The Gender and Development (GAD) Code of Antique has been cited as one of the milestone ordinances passed by the province’s Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP).
Sangguniang Panlalawigan member Dr. Mayella Mae Plameras-Ladislao, in an interview during the PIA radio program, said that the passage ofthe GAD Code in April 2020 is one of the milestones of the province of Antique for women empowerment as well as gender and development. 
SP Mayella Mae Plameras- Ladislao  (left) during the PIA radio program over station DYKAThe GAD Code provides for the compliance of the various institutions in the province to uphold the Magna Carta of Women including the fivepercent budget allocation of all agencies and local government units for gender and development programs and activities. 
She noted the big increase of budget allocation of the Provincial Government here from P278,581,327 in 2019 to P375,103,168 in 2021.
According to her, part of the budget under the GAD programs were spent on gender and development empowerment sessions and training for barangay leaders, women entrepreneurs, people’s organizations, Overseas Filipino Workers, and men advocates of gender and development.
Ladislao also noted the Empowerment and Reaffirmation of Paternal Abilities (ERPAT), a valuable program of Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office and the Department of Social Welfare and Development that puts emphasis on the development and enrichment of knowledge, attitudes, and skills of fathers in performing their paternal roles and responsibilities.
The Antique SP has also approved the institutionalization of Community Based Inclusive Development programs which have been a big factor inpushing for the upliftment of women with disabilities.
She also cited other women leaders of the province, namely House Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda, Governor Rhodora Cadiao, SP Member Karmila Rose Dimamay,  Liga ng mga Barangay president and SP Ex-Officio Member Pamela Socorro Azucena and all other women in the government service, for doing their best to empower their communities. 
As SP Chair on Women and Children, Ladislao is the head convenor of the Provincial Inter-Agency Committee on Gender and Development (GAD-IAC) with membership from government sector, national government agencies, cooperatives, and other groups with advocacy on gender and development.
The GAD-IAC was lodged at the Provincial Planning and Development Office led by PPD Officer Julie Cepe and designated GAD OfficerPriscille Joyce Gallego. (JBG/PSM/PIA-Antique)
***

References:
* Philippine Information Agency. “Antique SP cites gains on gender, development.” Philippine Information Agency. https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070468 (accessed March 24, 2021 at 05:17PM UTC+08).
* Philippine Infornation Agency. “Antique SP cites gains on gender, development.” Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070468 (archived).

PHO discourages mass gatherings to avert COVID-19 spread
#PHinfo: PHO discourages mass gatherings to avert COVID-19 spread

SAN JOSE, Antique, March 24 (PIA)  - -  The Antique Provincial Health Office appealed to the public to restrict themselves in coming to mass gatherings to avert the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
Provincial Health Officer IDr. Leoncio Q. Abiera, Jr.,  in a press conference, emphasized that mass gatherings are being discouraged particularly at this time that the COVID-19 positive cases in Antique have gone up.
He cited the index case of COVID-19 positive, who reportedly attended a cockfight in a coliseum and contacted various individuals, who also turned out positive of COVID-19. 
Dr. Leoncio Q. Abiera, Jr and Dr. Ric Noel Naciongayo (L-R) in a press conference“Though we are allowed of the 5O percent attendance in churches, we discourage mass gatherings and religious activities outside of the church where adherence to mandatory health standards are difficult to comply,” he said.
Abiera lalso thanked the leaders of religious groups who agreed to defer their events in the upcoming holy week in compliance with this request.
As to biking events and other outdoor activities, they are allowed, however, adherence to health protocols must be strictly observed, hesaid.
The PHO also requested the law enforcement agencies to arrest and sanction violators of health protocols.
On the other hand, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Ric Noel Naciongayo reiterated the guidelines of the Department of Health on the compliance to health protocol in public places.
He urged Antiqueños to always  properly wear their face mask and face shield, frequently wash hands by using soap and water or alcohol, observe social and physical distancing of at least one meter especially in public places, and follow only trusted media sources for reliable and accurate information.
Naciongayo said that Antiqueños have been compliant with health protocol early on.
“This must be continued. Never be complacent because the coronavirus is still up and ready to spread when the guards are down,” he said. (JBG/PSM/PIA-Antique)
***

References:
* Philippine Information Agency. “PHO discourages mass gatherings to avert COVID-19 spread.” Philippine Information Agency. https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070464 (accessed March 24, 2021 at 05:10PM UTC+08).
* Philippine Infornation Agency. “PHO discourages mass gatherings to avert COVID-19 spread.” Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1070464 (archived).