Sunday, December 22, 2024

Tag: Cagayan De Oro

Soldier killed in clash with NPA rebels in Bukidnon

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CAGAYAN DE ORO (MindaNews / September 11) — Army troops encountered a band of 20 New People’s Army (NPA) rebels on Sunday in Quezon, Bukidnon, triggering a four-hour firefight that resulted in the death of a soldier

Capt. Mark Anthony Tito, the 10th Infantry Division spokesperson, said the soldiers were pursuing the rebels when they caught up with them in Barangay Linabo, some 18 kilometers from Quezon town proper.

“The rebels were trying to link up with those from (NPA Guerilla) Front 57 when the soldiers encountered them. Unfortunately, one soldier died in the encounter,” Tito said.

Citing reports from the Quezon police station, Major Joanne Navarro, Police Regional Office – 10 spokespersons, identified the dead soldier as Private First Class Randy Ganzon, 29, a member of the 39th Infantry Battalion based in Makilala, North Cotabato.

Navarro said the remains of Ganzon were brought to the Villanueva Funeral Homes in Maramag, Bukidnon.

Fort Cabarde of the Quezon public information office said at about noon Monday that they were still waiting for the barangay officials of Linabo to report the incident. (Froilan Gallardo/MindaNews)

PNP chief orders stringent monitoring of poll hotspots

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CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – Philippine National Police chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. said last Sept. 01, 2023, that the country’s police force has been put on heightened alert, with a focus on monitoring election hotspots

During his visit to the Police Regional Office in Northern Mindanao (PRO-10), Acorda said the deployment of police personnel in checkpoints will be increased to prevent any major disruptions in peace and order.

“We have been in coordination meetings with police offices and the Comelec (Commission on Elections) and we want this election (season) peaceful and orderly,” Acorda said in a press briefing during his visit to the Police Regional Office in Northern Mindanao (PRO-10) headquarters for the 122nd Police Service Anniversary.

On Aug. 28, during the first day of filing of candidacy for the elections, a joint police-military operation resulted in the recovery of two heavy pipes containing suspected improvised explosive devices in Pantar town, Lanao del Norte.

Acorda, who once served as the PRO-10 director, underscored the importance of unity and cooperation between the police force and the community in making the streets safer and more secure.

“Let us remember that this success is not the result of the work of a few, but the collective efforts of a united force,” he said.

Acorda also led the awarding of distinguished police officers and stations in the region as part of the ceremony. (Nef Luczon/PNA)

Gallant troops, civilian personnel honored on National Heroes Day

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The 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division celebrated National Heroes Day by honoring its troops and civilian personnel for their gallantry in combat and performing exceptional duty for non-combat operations, respectively, during a simple awarding ceremony at the 4ID Headquarters, Camp Evangelista, Patag, Cagayan de Oro City on August 28, 2023

Major General Jose Maria R Cuerpo II, Commander of the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division, led the whole Diamond troopers in honoring seventeen (17) awardees composed of civilian human resource and troops coming from 4ID subordinate units as well as attached units deployed within the area of responsibility of 4ID in Caraga and Northern Mindanao region in time for the celebration of National Heroes Day.

Ten (10) were awarded Military Merit Medal with Bronze Spearhead Device for bravery and heroic achievements in fighting the communist terrorist group in their areas of operation, one (1) was awarded the Military Merit Medal with Bronze Spearhead Device Interim to Gold Cross Medal and two (2) members of the Philippine Air Force, as attached unit under the Joint Task Force Diamond, were also awarded with Military Merit Medal with Bronze Spearhead Device Interim to Distinguish Aviation Cross.

Moreover, three (3) troops were also awarded with Silver Cross Medal for imminently meritorious and invaluable accomplishments as a result of the separate successful implementation of intelligence operations that led to the neutralization through surrender and capture of CPP-NPA Terrorists (CNTs) and numerous high-powered firearms.

Meanwhile, Mr. Ervin Andrew A. Yano, a Civilian Human Resource of 4ID working as a Nurse at Camp Evangelista Station Hospital, was also honored and feted with a Plaque of Recognition for displaying an act of heroism and compassion by exerting extraordinary effort above and beyond his regular duties and responsibilities in saving the life of a teenager by preventing a suicide attempt at Jr. Borja Bridge in Cagayan de Oro City.

In his message, MGen. Cuerpo II said that 4ID’s celebration of National Heroes Day is about recognizing soldiers and other personnel who went above and beyond their call of duty to protect the people and secure the communities, as well as acknowledging the contribution of brave soldiers who offered an ultimate sacrifice in performing their mandate.

“I would like to personally congratulate all of you for demonstrating exceptional courage and bravery in serving your roles in our society, which resulted in laudable accomplishments of your respective units and the Armed Forces of the Philippines as a whole. This day is all about acknowledging your efforts and highlighting the sacrifices that you made. But do not lower your guards, instead use this recognition as an inspiration to do more good deeds for the betterment of our nation,” MGen. Cuerpo added. (4ID)

4ID recognized as TESDA Northern Mindanao’s Best National Government Agency

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The 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division was recognized by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Northern Mindanao as its Best National Government Agency for its significant contribution to the implementation and development of the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector in the Region, which resulted in TESDA’s consecutive highest approval and trust ratings among government agencies in the country.

Said plaque of appreciation was received by Colonel Ted B. Dumosmog, the 4ID Assistant Division Commander for Reservist and Retiree Affairs (ADC RRA) during the 29th TESDA Anniversary Celebration held at the Mallberry Suites Business Hotel, Limketkai Drive, Cagayan de Oro City on August 31, 2023. It was attended by the personnel and staff of TESDA Region 10 led by its Regional Director, Mr. Dan N. Navarro, other government agencies, and officers of the 4ID.

RD Navarro recognized the unwavering support of 4ID to all the TESDA programs and projects which greatly contributed to the endeavor of the organization in providing vulnerable sectors a better way to live.

Meanwhile, Major General Jose Maria R. Cuerpo II, the Commander of 4ID also expressed his gratitude to TESDA Region 10 for acknowledging the efforts of the Diamond Troopers, a testament to strong collaboration in order to achieve a common goal – to sustain peace and development in communities, especially the geographically isolated and disadvantage areas. (4ID)

Bukidnon gov highlights tourism, digital infra dev’t in SOPA

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CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – Bukidnon Governor Rogelio Neil Roque, on August 29, 2023, highlighted his administration’s achievements in tourism and digital infrastructures during his State of the Province Address (SOPA)

Roque said the province has regained lost momentum during the the pandemic and is now gathering resources for tourism groundwork and digital connection.

“Here in Bukidnon, we are strengthening the local tourism network and are reaching out to the private tourism industry to work,” he said.

While other existing tourism industries and events continue to thrive, Roque said it is important to “focus on highlighting our natural beauty, cultural heritage and unique experiences. To continue the path forward towards sustainable and eco-friendly tourism, especially when our airport is coming.”

In addition, Roque mentioned the various initiatives in the agriculture industry, noting that the province remains a top performer in producing crops like rice, corn, sugarcane, pineapple, and banana.

Early this month, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri, who hails from the province, said the new domestic airport in Don Carlos is 60 percent complete.

The airport is expected to be fully functional before 2025, he added.

Zubiri, the main proponent for creating the Bukidnon airport, said he would also facilitate additional funding for developing the domestic airport in Camiguin province. (Nef Luczon/PNA)

Agri NorMin set to distribute over 3K cash cards to rice farmers

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CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (DA-RFO 10) through its Regional Executive Director Carlene C. Collado will distribute another 3,115 Farmers’ Interventions Monitoring Cards (FIMCs) to eligible rice farmers in Misamis Oriental, Bukidnon, Camiguin, Lanao del Norte, and Misamis Occidental this month

William B. Parantar, Northern Mindanao area manager of the Universal Storefront Services, Corp. (USSC), turned over the FIMCs to DA-RFO 10 Regional Technical Director for Operations, Carlota S. Madriaga and Regional Technical Director for Research and Regulations, Cora A. Dumayaca, Monday, August 14, at the DA Compound in Cagayan de Oro City.

All NorMin rice farmers entitled to the Rice Farmers’ Financial Assistance (RFFA) as provided under the Rice Tariffication Law (RTL), shall be given the FIMC as their identification and cash card for the electronic rollout of the RFFA.

Pursuant to the RTL, qualified rice farmers shall receive a Php5k cash subsidy annually until the year 2024.

In partnership with the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) and USSC, DA-RFO 10 has distributed a total of 31,583 FIMCs in the region to date.

DA-RFO 10 Regional Agricultural Engineering Division chief, Engr. Deliza T. Camaro, Administrative and Finance Division chief, Patrick Ian F. Pedarse and Rice Program focal person, Chona H. Nacalaban were also in attendance during the turnover of the FIMCs. (DA RDO-10)

Bukidnon links up with gov’t agencies for El Niño strategy plan

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CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The Bukidnon provincial government is preparing for the possible effects of El Niño to prevent significant losses in the economy and agricultural lands

Personnel and officers of the local and provincial government Disaster Risk Reduction Management Offices (DRRMO) on Thursday conducted a dynamic simulation exercise here to harness their specific areas of expertise on disaster management.

Grouped into clusters, participants engaged in a series of purpose-driven activities not only in preparation for El Niño but also for other effects due to weather disturbances and man-made disasters.

The activities revolved around critical aspects, such as crafting realistic disaster scenarios, defining roles and responsibilities, planning for both pre-and post-disaster phases, analyzing resource requirements, and anticipating potential gaps that might arise during an actual emergency.

Gov. Rogelio Neil Roque, in his message during the activity, said the contingency planning is timely because of the looming El Niño season that will affect the country later this year and could extend to 2024.

“But as the saying goes, ‘those that fail to plan, plan to fail.’ We are therefore here today to plan,” he said.

The planning activity drew the support of the Northern Mindanao Offices of the Civil Defense (OCD-10) and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-10).

OCD-10 Director Antonio Sugarol said the agency has always reached out to DRRMOs at the local government level as part of its mandate.

“Our collective efforts and cooperation will serve as a foundation for stronger communities,” he said.

DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations Sancho Mabborang said the planning comes at a time when there are “ever-increasing frequency and intensity” of natural hazards that remind the public and local governments of improving resilience and adaptability measures.

“Bukidnon is not immune to the challenges presented by hazards. Our shared responsibility is to equip ourselves with the tools and knowledge needed to confront these challenges head-on,” he said. (Nef Luczon/PNA)

Bukidnon has 15,000 child laborers, says DOLE

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CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Bukidnon has close to 15,000 child laborers, making it the province in Northern Mindanao with the highest number, according to the Department of Labor and Employment in Region 10 (DOLE-10)

DOLE defines “child labor” as including “hazardous work … which encompasses undesirable activities or work done in a hazardous environment,” and “work done for long hours of more than 40 hours and/or night time or the entire day.”

These children are working in the farms, doing domestic work, fishing, or even in construction, a DOLE-10 report emailed to MindaNews said.

The report, which profiled child laborers during the period 2018 to 2021, said that of Northern Mindanao’s five provinces, Bukidnon gained the top spot with 14,790 child laborers.

It is followed by Misamis Oriental with 10,382 (aside from the 7,793 child laborers in Cagayan de Oro City, the province’s capital), Lanao del Norte with 9,014, Misamis Occidental with 3,979, and Camiguin with 1,902.

In all of Region 10, DOLE-10 reported a total of 47,860 child laborers, 28,930 of whom are males and 18,930 females.

In terms of age bracket, the 15-17 range has the highest at 35,298, followed by 10-14 with 11,665.

“Notably, all provinces have child laborers aged 3 to 4 years old, with the highest prevalence in Camiguin and Cagayan de Oro, with 17 and 13, respectively,” said the DOLE-10 report.

“The desire of these children to help their parents is very strong that from school or after waking up in the morning, they would go to the fields to do manual work,” said Erlinda Sayago, executive director of the Kaanib Foundation, during a press conference here Wednesday.

Kaanib Foundation, DOLE-10, and the Child Fund Philippines are helping to decrease the number of child labor in Bukidnon and other Northern Mindanao provinces.

“It’s very hard to eradicate child labor in an economy relying on agriculture,” said lawyer Russel Jallorina, assistant regional director of DOLE-10.

Jallorina said work is readily available in Bukidnon’s agricultural fields, considered the food basket of Northern Mindanao where poverty incidence is among the highest in the country.

Sayoga said that aside from helping raise the income of their family, the children also look for work to pay for their school needs like notebooks and pens.

“When the schools went for online classes during the COVID-19 pandemic, it was hell for the children. Many opted to look for work instead of attending the online classes where they have to pay for the Internet,” she added.

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), in a report released July 25, 2023, said that there were 1.48 million working children aged 5 to 17 in 2022, or about 4.7 percent of the total population of 31.71 million.

Of these working children, DOLE said that 828,000 are considered engaged in child labor.

The number, DOLE noted, is lower than in 2021, when child laborers numbered 935,000.

Across regions, Region 12 (Soccsksargen) has the highest proportion of child laborers at 12.5 percent. Northern Mindanao is at the fourth spot, with 9.4 percent. Central Visayas is second at 10.5 percent, followed by the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region at 10.4 percent. (Froilan Gallardo / MindaNews)

PSA-10 urges support for agri, fisheries census

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CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA)-10 called on government agencies and instrumentalities, local government units, and agriculture stakeholders to support the conduct of the 2022 Census on Agriculture and Fisheries (CAF)

PSA-10 Officer-in-Charge Janith Aves said the CAF is a large-scale government undertaking geared towards collecting and compiling basic information on the agricultural and fishery sectors of the country.

Primarily, the census seeks to determine the country’s structural characteristics of the agriculture and fishery sectors. It also aims to provide basic data on agriculture, aquaculture, and fishing characteristics for use in the government’s national and local development planning.

Activities that the 2022 CAF will cover are growing crops, livestock and poultry, aquaculture, and fisheries from January 1, 2022, to December 31, 2022.

Aves said the data collected from the census will constitute the bases from which policymakers and planners formulate their plans and programs for the country’s socioeconomic development.

The 2022 CAF, she added, is the seventh in a series of decennial agricultural censuses and the sixth in the series of decennial censuses of fisheries in the country since 1903.

The nationwide census will commence on September 4, 2023, to coincide with National Agriculture and Fisheries Census Month observance. (APB/PIA-10)

NEDA secures P12.7-B development plan for NorMin airports

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CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The National Economic and Development Authority in Northern Mindanao (NEDA-10) will have a PHP12.7-billion budget for improving its airports, an official said last July 27

In a statement, NEDA-10 director Myla Faye Aurora Cariño said the approval of the amount would spur economic growth in the region, particularly in Laguindingan Airport in Misamis Oriental.

Currently, the region has three functioning airports, with one still under construction in Don Carlos town, Bukidnon province.

She said the expansion intends to handle a greater volume of domestic and international flights in the region for its transformation into a prominent e-commerce hub in Mindanao.

The budget for airport improvement forms part of the Regional Development Plan (RDP) 2023–2028.

The RDP was presented at the Trade Facilitation Cluster of Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Philippines-East ASEAN Growth Area held in this city from July 25-26.

Local planners were also called upon to generate support for the RDP 2023–2028 Provincial and Highly Urbanized City Roadshows, which aims to promote the region’s comprehensive development agenda and engage stakeholders in the collaborative pursuit of sustainable and inclusive growth.

Misamis Oriental Rep. Yevgeny Vincente Emano (2nd District) already proposed a bill seeking to transform Laguindingan Airport into an international airport facility. (PNA)