DAR E. Visayas’ buyugan festival-inspired booth shines at the agraryo trade fair

By JOSE ALSMITH L. SORIA
October 21, 2024

QUEZON CITY – Inspired by Abuyog, Leyte’s buyugan festival, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Eastern Visayas’ booth stood out among the 15 participating booths, representing the different regions in the country, during the 2024 agraryo trade fair.

As the four-day trade fair, which opened on Tuesday, October 15 at the DAR Central Office in this city, closed on Friday afternoon, winners of the different categories were announced.

For the best booth design, the top plum went to the booth of Eastern Visayas with a score of 96 percent based on the criteria: 50 percent for creativity, 30 percent for originality, and 20 percent for overall appearance and presentation.

Under creativity, according to the guidelines, the participating regions must be able to depict any of the popular festivals of the region they are representing, incorporating the 2024 theme of the agraryo trade fair.

DAR Eastern Visayas Assistant Regional Director for Program Beneficiaries Development, Ismael Aya-ay, disclosed that the region opted to depict the buyugan festival, which tells the story of the life of the bees (bubuyog).

CARAGA’s booth depicting the balanghai festival and Western Visayas’ booth depicting the dinagyang festival were declared second and third, respectively. Aside from the trophies, the winning regions also received P15,000, P10,000, and P5,000 for the first, second and third places, respectively.

The conduct of the said trade fair, organized by the Support Services Offices (SSO) headed by Undersecretary Rowena Niña Taduran, was in line with the Rural Women’s Month celebration.

During the closing ceremony, DAR Undersecretary for the Office of Mindanao Affairs and vice-chairperson of the National Gender and Development (GAD) Steering Committee, Amihilda Sangcopan, stressed “This trade fair showed resiliency particularly the invaluable role of women in rural communities.”

“With the theme ‘Kababaihan sa Kanayunan: Kabalikat sa Repormang Agraryo para sa Maunlad at Matatag na Bagong Pilipinas,’ we highlight the essential contribution of our women in rural areas to serve as steadfast partners in advancing agrarian reform and building a prosperous and resilient Philippines,” she added.

Meanwhile, products form Eastern Visayas were able to generate an income of P55,340 during the four-day run. Among the most salable products were the chocolate moron, vinegar, the bags made from buri and the “tuba,” which were all sold out.

GBTRGHSC advances in governance pathway for infectious disease management in Region 8

Press Release
October 17, 2024

MAKATI CITY – Amid the schistosomiasis endemic and high incidence in Region 8, the Governor Benjamin T. Romualdez General Hospital and Schistosomiasis Center (GBTRGHSC), formerly Schistosomiasis Hospital, has enhanced its infrastructure and empowered health workers to combat the disease.

During a public revalida with the Institute for Solidarity in Asia (ISA), GBTRGHSC achieved the Initiated Status on October 15 under ISA’s governance framework, the Performance Governance System (PGS).

The Public Revalida is a democratic exercise that validates a public institution's completion of the four stages of the PGS. Enrolled institutions include the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Department of Health (DOH), among others.

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic disease, was first noted in the country in 1906 among New Bilibid Prison inmates hailing from Samar and Leyte. Over the years, efforts to manage the disease have evolved, leading to the establishment of the GBTRGHSC, which now aims to be a 500-bed Level 3 hospital with Basic Comprehensive Capability for Infectious Diseases and End Referral for Schistosomiasis through the governance framework.

GBTRGHSC Medical Center Chief, Dr. Lyn L. Verona, highlighted the hospital's achievements so far, including the launch of several infrastructure projects such as the new outpatient department building and fully-equipped operating rooms.

“Additional infrastructures are also ongoing to provide expanded services such as the hemodialysis unit, the CT scan, the endoscopy unit, and the 2D echocardiography unit and the spirometry area,” Dr. Verona added.

With approximately 775 cases of schistosomiasis recorded in 2023, the hospital has actively recruited physicians, nurses, and healthcare personnel to manage the growing number of patients, both in-hospital and through the GBTRGHSC on Wheels Kalusugan Caravan, in partnership with Tingog Party List.

“Our training programs have also made significant progress, with the accreditation of a residency training program in Traditional Family and Community Medicine," Dr. Verona said.

Given the region's agricultural nature, there remains a growing need to educate the public about schistosomiasis and its management, prompting the hospital to conduct community lectures, which have now gained recognition from a regional health body.

“Our Public Health Unit has led multiple lectures and activities both within the hospital and across communities, earning the Best Public Health Unit award from the Department of Health Eastern Visayas CHD on September 3, 2024," Dr. Verona said.

The revalida panel was chaired by Ms. Mary Jane Ortega, former Mayor of San Fernando, La Union, and ISA Fellow, with Dr. Enrique Tayag of the Philippine Society for Microbiology and Infectious Diseases serving as vice-chair.

The panel also included Asec. Maylene Beltran, Assistant Secretary of Health and Public Health Services Cluster - DOH; Dr. Jose Ma. M. Angeles and Dr. Pilarita Rivera, both from the Department of Parasitology at the College of Public Health, University of the Philippines-Manila; and Dr. Rodante Roldan, Office for Strategy Management Chief at Rizal Medical Center.

Philippine, Australian armies commence Exercise Kasangga

By OACPA
October 15, 2024

FORT BONIFACIO, Taguig City – The Philippine Army, through the 9th Infantry Division, and the Australia Army commenced Exercise Kasangga 2024-2 at Camp Elias Angeles, San Jose, Pili, Camarines Sur on October 14, 2024.

The Philippine Army-Australian Army Exercise (PAAAE) "KASANGGA" 2024-2 is the inaugural combined training exercise between Filipino and Australian ground troops in the Bicol Region. A total of 266 participants composed of 216 PA personnel and 50 Australian Army personnel are participating in the said combined exercise scheduled from October 14 to November 8, 2024.

The combined exercise covers critical areas such as urban operations, close combat techniques, combat shooting, and tactical casualty care. Soldiers will also undergo training in explosive assault breaching, cybersecurity operations, mortar gunnery with forward observers, and Civil-Military Operations (CMO) exchanges.

Exercise Kasangga aims to enhance the skills and bolster the interoperability of both armies in various war-fighting functions. It can be recalled that the 5th Infantry Division hosted the first iteration of the combined exercise for the year with Australian ground troops from May to June 2024.

Remains of top communist-terrorist leader exhumed in Northern Samar

By DPAO, 8ID PA
October 13, 2024

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – The Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in Eastern Visayas suffered a major setback after a high-ranking leader was neutralized during a joint military operation by the 4th Scout Ranger Battalion and the 19th Infantry Battalion in the hinterlands of Barangay Deit De Turag, Silvino Lubos, Northern Samar, on October 13, 2024.

A certain, Mario Sevillano, alias "Durok," headed the Sub-Regional Guerrilla Unit (SRGU) of the Sub-Regional Committee (SRC) Emporium under the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC).

Durok was believed to have been fatally wounded in an encounter with the authorities last August 20, 2024, according to the information provided by a recently surrendered CTG member on October 11, 2024.

Despite attempts by his comrades to evacuate him after sustaining a gunshot wound in the abdomen, Sevillano succumbed to his injuries and was buried in a shallow grave as the CTG forces retreated.

A joint operation by the 19IB, 4SRB, 43IB, and 2nd NSPFMC successfully located and exhumed his remains.

Lieutenant Colonel Marvin A. Maraggun, Commander of the 19th Infantry Battalion, expressed both sorrow and resolve in the aftermath of Sevillano’s death.

"It is indeed a sad day for us to witness the loss of another life, especially one wasted on a cause that has led to suffering and conflict for so long. We urge the remaining NPA members, many of whom are always on the run, and struggling with low morale due to fatigue and hunger, to lay down their arms and choose a path of peace," Lt. Col. Maraggun stated.

Brigadier General Perfecto P. Peñaredondo, Acting Commander of the 8th Infantry Division, emphasized that the outcome could have been prevented if the CTGs surrendered to the government.

“The Philippine Army remains committed to upholding human rights. Sevillano could have received proper medical care if they had chosen to lay down their arms. His death marks another step toward, the end of insurgency in Eastern Visayas,” Brig. Gen. Peñaredondo stated.

Communist-Terrorist supporters continue to break ties, reveal multiple arms cache in Eastern Visayas

By DPAO, 8ID PA
October 7, 2024

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – A family member of a neutralized member of the Communist-Terrorist Group in an encounter last February 2024 disclosed the locations of an arms cache containing three firearms in the hinterlands of Barangay Rizal, Kananga, Leyte on October 5, 2024.

Troops from the 93rd Infantry Battalion (93IB) under the 802nd Infantry Brigade of the 8th Infantry Division recovered M16 Assault Rifle, Caliber .30 M1 Garand, KG-9 Pistol, 5 magazines, and 41 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition allegedly owned by the recently dismantled Platoon 2 of the Island Committee (IC) Levox, Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC).

Lt. Col. Charlie L. Saclot, Commanding Officer of 93IB, thanked the family members and other stakeholders for their bravery and cooperation in sustaining peace in the area.

“The successful implementation of the FReE Families Program played a vital role in the successful conduct of this operation,” Lt. Col. Saclot said.

The Enhanced Friends Rescued Engagement through Families (E-FReE) program was launched by the Army to empower the families of active NPA members to encourage their loved ones to surrender and seek assistance from the military and local government.

Meanwhile, in a separate operation, the troops of the 78th Infantry Battalion under the 802nd Brigade successfully facilitated the surrender of two Communist-Terrorist Group (CTG) members and the seizure of an arms cache containing six high-powered firearms in the Municipality of General McArthur, Eastern Samar on October 3, 2024.

Brig. Gen. Noel A. Vestuir, Commander of the 802nd Infantry Brigade expressed his gratitude for the populace's continued efforts to work together to promote sustainable peace and development.

“We must not miss this opportunity to actively participate in our shared responsibility for lasting peace and development,” Brig. Gen. Vestuir said.

In a statement, Brig. Gen. Perfecto P. Penaredondo, the Acting Commander of 8ID, attributed the recent success to the relevant information provided by the family of a CTG member and the community.

"This is a clear indication that the families of the CTG members and the community appreciate the efforts of the government and have decided to support the fight of ending the local communist armed conflict," said Brig. Gen. Peñaredondo.

He also commended those who surrendered CTG members and their families for revealing the location of the hidden arms cache. He also encouraged the remaining CTG members to unite and work together towards attaining socio-economic development.

"Let us join hands in finding solutions to our problems. There is no need for armed struggle. The government has programs anchored in the NTF-ELCAC where all government agencies and other stakeholders provide solutions to the problems especially in the vulnerable areas and sectors in society," Brig. Gen. Peñaredondo concluded.

For the 3rd quarter of 2024, 31 members of the EVRPC laid down their arms and are now processing their Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) benefits.

Rebels surrender, 6 high-powered firearms turned-over to government troops in Eastern Samar

By DPAO, 8ID PA
October 5, 2024

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – The troops of the 78th Infantry Battalion successfully facilitated the surrender of two Communist-Terrorist Group (CTG) members and the seizure of an arms cache in the Municipality of General MacArthur, Eastern Samar on Thursday, October 3, 2024.

Alias Jacobe, the Vice Squad leader, and alias Aquilla, both from the remnants of Apoy Platoon, Sub-Regional Committee (SRC) Sesame, Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC), revealed the locations of the hidden arms cache in the hinter villages of Osmeña and Laurel, General MacArthur, Eastern Samar.

The arms cache contains two M16 rifles, two M14 rifles, one .30 Caliber Springfield rifle, and one AK-47 rifle. Along with these weapons, troops seized hundreds of rounds of ammunition, several magazines, personal belongings, and subversive documents with high intelligence value.

The 802Bde Commander Brigadier General Noel Vestuir lauded the troops for their professionalism and successful negotiation that led to the surrender of the said personalities.

"Two lives were saved from the grip of a dead ideology. It's only a matter of time before all members of SRC Sesame will be neutralized. The success of this operation is credited to the tireless efforts of the 802Bde in conducting comprehensive debriefings with former rebels and implementing programs such as the E-FReE Families program and Project APOY," Brig. Gen. Vestuir said.

The Enhanced Friends Rescued Engagement through Families (E-FReE) program is an initiative of the Army to empower the families of active NPA members to encourage their loved ones to surrender and seek assistance from the military and local government.

Brig. Gen. Perfecto P. Peñaredondo, the Acting Commander of 8ID, reiterated his call upon the remaining CTG members to give peace a chance and avail of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

"These successes are the results of the concerted efforts of our ground troops with the firm support from our Local Chief Executives and on awakened citizenry. The collaborative efforts are aimed at finally putting an end to the decades-long insurgency problem here in Eastern Visayas. Our efforts are now becoming more effective and responsive to the needs and aspirations of the people," Brig. Gen. Peñaredondo added.

Barbie Forteza and David Licauco named Save the Children Philippines Ambassadors

Press Release
October 3, 2024

QUEZON CITY – In celebration of the International Day of Peace, GMA Network’s beloved love team Barbie Forteza and David Licauco are officially the newest ambassadors of Save the Children Philippines.

The Kapuso Network’s dynamic duo will be at the forefront of Save the Children’s mission to amplify the voices of children and inspire people to protect and fulfill the rights of every child. They will be joining the ranks of other Save the Children Ambassadors such as Jennifer Garner and Enrique Iglesias.

Known for their undeniable chemistry and genuine compassion, Barbie and David embody the spirit of youth and optimism that Save the Children Philippines hopes to spread among Filipino children, especially those most impacted by inequality and discrimination.

Save the Children, the world’s leading independent organization, was founded in the aftermath of World War I in 1919 by Eglantyne Jebb, the woman who drafted the Declaration of the Rights of the Child in 1924 which was eventually adopted as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.

GMA Network Inc.’s Atty. Annette Gozon-Valdes, Senior Vice President for Programming, Talent Management, Worldwide, and Support Group, and President and CEO of GMA Films noted how Barbie and David’s engagement with Save the Children coincides with their role as Adelina and Hiroshi, respectively, in the hit teleserye “Pulang Araw” and said:

“This is where the role of our newest ambassadors comes in. In 'Pulang Araw,' Barbie Forteza and David Licauco portray Adelina and Hiroshi, characters caught in the crossfire of war. The show also demonstrates the psychological and emotional battlefields that war imposes on children. ‘Pulang Araw,’ uses the evocative color red echoing the iconic hue of Save the Children, symbolizing our auspicious synergy. Let today and the days to come be a ‘Pulang Araw,' a day of fiery red love and bravery for the children.”

During the partnership signing of GMA Network Inc., with Save the Children Philippines, Barbie and David expressed their gratitude for being chosen as Save the Children Ambassadors and shared their initial plans on how they can use their platform to support children’s causes:

“I am very honored and grateful dahil napili po ako together with David na maging ambassador ng Save the Children. Gagamitin ko po ang aking profession as an actress at ang aking platform to influence our children to know their rights kahit at an early age. At siempre, pagbutihin ang kanilang pag-aaral nang sa gayon ay sila ay maging mabubuting leaders in the future,” said Forteza.

“First of all, I want to say thank you to Save the Children Philippines for choosing me, alongside with my loveteam Barbie Forteza. Thank you rin sa GMA dahil sa pagkuha nila sa akin and now, ambassador na ako ng Save the Children Philippines. I think it’s time for us to use our platforms to good use. Our goal is to set a good example for the youth, to inspire, and empower the children to keep chasing their dreams,” Licauco said.

Save the Children Philippines CEO Atty. Alberto Muyot and Chairperson Alicia Dela Rosa-Bala welcomed Barbie and David with open arms to the Save the Children Family.

“We are particularly grateful for the unwavering support of our new ambassadors, Barbie Forteza and David Licauco. Their influence and dedication will be instrumental in raising awareness about child rights issues and inspiring action,” said Muyot.

“I firmly believe that our strengthened partnership will help ensure the fulfillment of the rights of every child to survive, learn, be protected, and participate meaningfully in matters that are important for them,” Dela Rosa-Bala said.

However, this is not the first time Barbie and David have contributed to Save the Children’s work for and with children. In Episode 13 of their previous teleserye “Maging Sino Ka Man,” Dino (Barbie) confronted Carding (David) on his attempt to discipline the children in his custody by physical harm. Forteza’s lines in the scene clearly echoed the needs of children to be loved, protected, and be safe from physical and humiliating punishments.

With Barbie and David journeying with Save the Children Philippines as ambassadors, the leading child rights organization is confident that together, they will reach a wider audience and create a greater impact on the lives of Filipino children.

DPWH Samar 2nd District Engineering Office conducts rigorous inspection of FY 2024 projects

By MARK ERROLD G. PABUA
October 2, 2024

CATBALOGAN CITY – The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Samar 2nd District Engineering Office, led by District Engineer Herminio V. Gulmatico, recently conducted a series of project inspections to ensure the integrity and quality of various FY 2024 infrastructure projects. These inspections form part of the district's commitment to uphold the highest standards of workmanship, ensuring that all projects meet the required specifications and plans.

“DPWH projects are designed with a well-structured cost derived from detailed program preparations and updated unit costs. With this, there should be no reason for any substandard or defective outputs. We expect contractors to deliver projects that reflect both quality and durability,” said Engineer Gulmatico.

Engineer Gulmatico placed strong emphasis on the importance of contractors adhering to the requirements outlined in the project plans and standard specifications. He reminded the contractors of their accountability and their obligation to meet the terms of their contracts.

The project inspections are part of a comprehensive effort to maintain transparency and quality in public infrastructure projects and reflect the DPWH's commitment to ensure that public funds are spent efficiently.

By upholding quality standards, the department aims to create lasting infrastructure that will serve the public efficiently for years to come.

DAR prepares turnover of 7 road projects in E. Samar town

By JOSE ALSMITH L. SORIA
October 1, 2024

ORAS, Eastern Samar – After more than a year of concreting, the P100-million worth farm-to-market road projects implemented in eight remote villages in this town, were finally completed.

On Sept. 16 and 17 this year, representatives from the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) central office’s Project Management Service (PMS), inspected the seven completed road projects in preparation for the turnover to the recipient local government unit (LGU).

Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer II (PARPO II), Randy Frogosa, an engineer assigned at PMS who headed the inspection team, said he was impressed with the implementation of the said projects which connect from Barangay San Eduardo to Barangay Nadacpan; from Barangay Nadacpan to Barangay Saurong; from Barangay Saurong to Barangay Agsam; from Barangay Agsam to Barangay Iwayan; from Barangay Iwayan to Barangay Minap-os; from Barangay Minap-os to Barangay Alang-Alang; and from Barangay Alang-Alang to Barangay Cadi-an.

All these projects financed under the Agrarian Reform Fund (ARF) with a combined length of three kilometers were implemented by the LGU.

Among the good points Frogosa mentioned was the construction of “farmers access,” even if this was not included in the plan, to protect the edge of the road from breaking down due to the passage of farm machineries and equipment.

However, Frogosa disclosed that the team also found few defects, which he considered as minor only, that need to be replaced and repaired before DAR releases the full payment and eventual turnover of the said projects.

Meanwhile, Mayor Roy Ador expressed gratitude to DAR for the trust and opportunity to implement a big-budgeted project, which according to him will strengthen their capacity to implement similar projects in the future.

He also shared that these projects will contribute much not only to the economic activities of the residents in these areas but to the peace and order situation as well considering that these villages are ELCAC (End Local Communist Armed Conflict) identified areas.

The realization of these projects, which are expected to be benefited by about 10 thousand residents living in the above-mentioned villages, who had long been yearning for a better road, was through the initiative of House Minority Leader and 4Ps Party-List representative, Marcelino Libanan.

Army strengthens bilateral relations at ADAS 2024

By OACPA
September 27, 2024

FORT BONIFACIO, Taguig City – The Philippine Army engaged in strategic dialogues with the Indonesian Army and French Defense Ministry, solidifying bilateral relations on the second day of the 5th Asian Defense and Security (ADAS) exhibition at the World Trade Center in Pasay City on September 27, 2024.

The Commanding General of the Philippine Army, Lt. Gen Roy M. Galido, met with Deputy Assistant for Intelligence of the Indonesian Army Brig. Gen. Ardian Triwarsana, to explore collaborative initiatives. Discussions centered on the potential for subject matter expert exchanges, particularly in logistics research and development, and the enhancement of logistics operations.

In a separate engagement, Lt. Gen. Galido and Director of Asia-Pacific at the International Directorate of the French Ministry of Defense Procurement Agency Brig. Gen. Caroline Salahun, expressed mutual interest in strengthening defense and security cooperation between the Philippines and France. Both parties highlighted the potential for future collaboration, including the PA’s participation in joint exercises focused on jungle and mountain warfare, as well as peacekeeping operations – initially as observers.

These engagements underscore the Philippine Army's commitment to fostering strong international partnerships, enhancing defense capabilities, and promoting regional stability.

BotiCARD opens new branch in Sta. Cruz, Laguna

By EDRIAN BANANIA
September 26, 2024

SAN PABLO CITY – With the commitment of CARD Mutually Reinforcing Institution (CARD MRI) to providing quality, affordable health products and services, BotiCARD opened its new branch in Sta. Cruz, Laguna on September 18, 2024.

For health services capacity, Sta. Cruz, Laguna ranked 25th out of 509 first and second-class municipalities in 2024. Despite this, certain families and individuals still need affordable access to medicine and healthcare services. In support of CARD MRI’s mission, BotiCARD established a new pharmacy that will cater to the community of Sta. Cruz offered them affordable and discounted generic and branded medicines and other healthcare products and services.

“To break the cycle of poverty, it is essential to enhance health and wellness while providing access to quality, affordable products and services. This new branch opening aligns with CARD MRI's mission to eradicate poverty and represents a significant step towards our goal of establishing one pharmacy in every community, one step at a time," said BotiCARD President Ms. Rosenda Aquino.

Residents of Sta. Cruz has access to affordable generic medicines, basic health supplies, hygiene products, selected supplements, and other pharmacy essentials. While promoting the use of generic medicines is a primary goal, branded medicines are also available.

In its commitment to community health and wellness, BotiCARD offered free medical check-ups, massage, tooth extraction, and freebies like a 28% discount to those who attended the branch opening.

“The branch opening represents a significant milestone, showcasing CARD MRI’s role as more than just a microfinance institution. It highlights the organization's broader mission to combat poverty through a variety of accessible products and services that more people can afford,” Aquino explained.

Aside from BotiCARD staff and CARD clients, the event was also attended by CARD MRI’s media partners.

The BotiCARD Sta. Cruz branch is now ready to serve the local community of Sta. Cruz. The branch is located at A. Regidor St. Barangay V, Sta. Cruz, Laguna, and will schedule a monthly free medical consultation for everyone.

BotiCARD is a member institution of CARD MRI, a group of institutions with a shared mission to eradicate poverty and improve the lives of Filipino families.