Friday, March 21, 2025

Tag: mindanao

DOH-10 expands screening for cancer, heart disease

Posted on by cmn

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (February 27, 2025) — Early diagnosis and screening services for various types of cancer and even heart disease are now readily available at public health centers across the region. The Department of Health Center for Health Northern Mindanao (DOH-CHDNM) has strengthened its early detection capacity in response to the rising cases of non-communicable diseases

In an episode of Talakayan sa PIA, a media forum held at SM City Uptown in Cagayan de Oro, Dr. Tristan Jediah Labitad, non-communicable diseases cluster head for DOH-CHDNM, reported that public health centers offer free screening for cervical and breast cancer. They also provide immunizations for HPV, hepatitis B, and tetanus toxoid, among others.


“If you notice symptoms or feel unwell, seek medical consultation instead of ignoring your condition. Even if you feel fine, we still recommend seeing a doctor and asking for help,” Labitad advised in Cebuano.


He explained that timely and accurate clinical evaluation, diagnosis, and staging allow government health facilities to provide prompt treatment to patients.


“When you develop symptoms and health workers assess your condition, they can refer you to a high-level facility like Northern Mindanao Medical Center or Amai Pakpak Medical Center for immediate treatment of serious illnesses such as cancer or heart disease,” he said.


Labitad described cancer as the abnormal proliferation of damaged cells in the body.
“Cancer occurs when our cell’s DNA is damaged, causing excessive and uncontrolled multiplication. This leads to the formation of a tumor or mass,” he explained.


While childhood cancer is not preventable, early diagnosis is crucial. Parents and guardians are urged to monitor any unusual lumps or masses in their children’s bodies and seek medical attention at the nearest health center immediately.


For adults, the DOH encourages maintaining a healthy lifestyle to reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases. This includes avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, getting vaccinated against HPV (which helps prevent cervical cancer), and undergoing regular screenings.


Labitad also emphasized the importance of proper nutrition, regular exercise, and discipline in preventing these diseases.


(JMOR/PIA-10)

Agri-10 4K continues to aid IP orgs in NorMin

Posted on by cmn

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — The Kabuhayan at Kaunlaran ng Kababayang Katutubo (4K) program, a special initiative of the Department of Agriculture (DA), continues to assist Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICCs) and Indigenous People (IP) farmers and fishers by helping them develop their ancestral lands through sustainable farming. The program also aims to boost their livelihood while respecting their cultural traditions, beliefs, values, and laws

April Grace M. Racines, 4K program focal person of the DA-Regional Field Office 10 (DA-10), shared in a recent episode of “Usapang Agrikultura” on Radyo Pilipinas 1 DXIM that at least 50 Indigenous People’s Organizations (IPOs) in Northern Mindanao have benefited from the program since its inception in 2020.


She explained that the program provides support across the agricultural value chain, including seeds, fertilizers, draft animals, machinery, equipment, and training. These are tailored to each community’s needs and resource gaps, as identified through a Community Needs Assessment (CNA).


Racines added that eligible beneficiaries of the program are IPOs recognized by the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) or those who have secured—or are in the process of securing—a Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title, Land Title, or Domain Claim (CADT/CALT/CADC).


“Eligible participants must be willing to engage in training or capacity-building activities and adopt new technologies while also respecting and recognizing what we call Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Practices (IKSP),” the coordinator explained.


For his part, Alvin P. Pantaon, a program beneficiary and member of a 51-person association from Sitio Mintapod, Hagpa, Impasugong, Bukidnon, praised the Department of Agriculture’s efforts in uplifting their community.


Through the 4K program, members were trained in agricultural technologies, including rice, corn, and tilapia culture. They also received abaca stripping machines and livestock animals.


“We need to realize that we cannot just rely on what nature provides us for food, especially now that our numbers have grown and nature can no longer sustain our food supply. So, we, the IP, need to adapt, continue, and be ready to cooperate,” Pantaon emphasized, urging others to pursue agriculture.


Racines also highlighted that the 4K program has collaborated with DA-10’s banner programs and special projects, along with its attached bureaus and agencies, NCIP, local government units, and the Philippine Army, to achieve its milestones.


Looking ahead, she shared that the 4K program plans to identify additional ICCs and IPOs to focus on for 2026–2028, with the goal of helping these groups transition into enterprising organizations that can secure stable markets and create sustainable livelihoods in the long run.


“We are already working on crafting cluster development plans for select IPOs,” the 4K program coordinator concluded.


(JLO)

Northern Mindanao posts 2.9% inflation in January 2025

Posted on by cmn

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (February 18, 2025) — Northern Mindanao’s inflation rate for January 2025 increased to 2.9 percent, rising by 0.3 percentage points from the previous month’s rate of 2.6 percent, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA)-10

PSA-10 Regional Director Janith Aves explained that rising prices in food, non-alcoholic beverages, transport, restaurants, and accommodation services primarily caused the region’s inflation increase.


Food and non-alcoholic beverages experienced an inflation rate of 2.4 percent in January 2025, increasing from 1.8 percent in December 2024. This change resulted mainly from higher costs of fish and seafood, vegetables, and meat.


Transport inflation rose to 5.4 percent from 5.0 percent in December 2024.


“The rise mainly resulted from gasoline and diesel prices, which shifted to -0.3 percent from -2.0 percent and -2.5 percent from -6.4 percent, respectively,” she said.


In restaurants and accommodation services, inflation reached 3.8 percent, increasing from 3.3 percent in the previous month. The rise occurred primarily due to higher prices in restaurants, cafes, and similar establishments, which showed an inflation rate of 3.8 percent, up from 3.2 percent. Hotels, motels, inns, and other accommodation services recorded an inflation rate of 5.1 percent, rising from 5.0 percent in December.


The region’s inflation rate in January 2025 matched the national inflation rate, which stood at 2.9 percent. However, the inflation rate differed across various areas in Northern Mindanao. Misamis Oriental recorded the highest inflation rate at 5.3 percent, while Lanao del Norte had the lowest at 0.6 percent.


Aves stated that these inflationary trends play a crucial role in understanding regional economic conditions and will continue to be closely monitored to support informed decisions and policies.

(APB/PIA-10)

Don Carlos, Bukidnon declared insurgency-free

Posted on by cmn

DON CARLOS, Bukidnon – “The declaration of Don Carlos town as insurgency-free marks a significant leap toward peace, reinforcing the government’s commitment to security,” said Capt. Rogelio Recto, Civil-Military Operations Officer and spokesperson of the Philippine Army’s 48th Infantry Battalion

In an interview aired on Radio Mindanao Network Malaybalay station, Recto confirmed that Don Carlos is now the sixth municipality in southern Bukidnon to achieve insurgency-free status.


It joins the towns of San Fernando, Kadingilan, Damulog, Kibawe, and Dangcagan, all of which have already been recognized for successfully eliminating insurgent threats.


The declaration signifies the absence of active armed rebels, ensuring community security and peace.


“Don Carlos is now insurgency-free, thanks to a strong collaboration. The local government units, the Philippine National Police, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, security forces, and peace partners remained vigilant, ensuring a year of stability, with no New People’s Army [NPA] activities reported, as confirmed through rigorous monitoring,” Recto said.


He explained that declaring a municipality insurgency-free requires thorough assessments by the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police.


Brig. Gen. Marion Angcao, commander of the 1003rd Infantry Brigade, said this achievement will pave the way for economic growth, social development, and an improved quality of life for Don Carlos residents.


“Our goal is to uphold peace and order in Bukidnon, allowing people to live without fear and enabling communities to prosper. This milestone highlights the success of government-led initiatives in strengthening security, fostering stability, and driving long-term economic and social progress,” he said.


Themed “Kalig-on Pinaagi sa Panaghiusa: Usa ka Bag-ong Panahon sa Kalinaw ug Seguridad” (Unity in Strength: Embracing a New Era of Peace and Security), the declaration ceremony took place on February 25 at the JMZ Astrodome in Poblacion, Don Carlos. Local government officials, sectoral and tribal leaders, the PNP, and the AFP attended the event to honor the occasion.


With Don Carlos now insurgency-free, authorities expect nearby Maramag and Kitaotao towns to follow suit within months, further advancing lasting peace in Northern Mindanao and across the nation.


(BGE/PIA 10-Bukidnon)

2 pilots found dead inside FA-50 fighter jet in Bukidnon mountain

Posted on by cmn

MANILA, Philippines (12:32 PM March 05, 2025) — The remains of two pilots aboard a missing FA-50 fighter jet were found on Wednesday inside the aircraft, which crashed in the Kalatungan mountain range in the Bukidnon province

In an interview, Lt. Gen. Luis Rex Bergante, commander of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Eastern Mindanao Command, confirmed that the pilots were found around 11 a.m.

“Yes,” Bergante said when asked if the pilots were inside the aircraft.

“Just now, around 11 a.m.,” he added in Filipino, referring to the time the remains were discovered.

Bergante said they had already deployed search and rescue teams from the special forces to retrieve the pilots’ remains.

In a separate statement, Philippine Air Force (PAF) spokesperson Col. Maria Consuelo Castillo confirmed the deaths of the pilots.

“The Philippine Air Force FA-50 aircraft reported missing has been located by ground troops in the vicinity of the Mt. Kalatungan Complex, Bukidnon, today, March 5, 2025,” Castillo said.

“With deep regret and profound sadness, the PAF announces the loss of the two pilots aboard,” she also revealed.

“The PAF has grounded its FA-50 fleet and will ensure a thorough investigation into the accident,” she added.

According to Castillo, PAF has sent its condolences to the bereaved families and will provide necessary support “during this difficult time.”

“We also request the nation’s prayers for the eternal repose of our fallen pilots, whose service and heroism we deeply honor,” she concluded.

Earlier, the PAF official reported that the FA-50 fighter jet went missing during a tactical night operation shortly after midnight on March 4.

Castillo said the FA-50 carrying two pilots was supposed to land at Mactan Airbase in Cebu, but the jet lost communication with one of its fellow aircraft “minutes before reaching the target area.”

The PAF has 11 remaining FA-50s in its arsenal after retiring some of its fighters in 2005.

All the FA-50s were acquired from Korea Aerospace Industries for P18.9 billion during the administration of Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino Jr.

Over in Davao City, Lt. Col. Salvacion Evangelista, spokesperson of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Eastern Mindanao Command, held a separate press briefing on Wednesday morning about the tragedy.

For his part, Lt. Col. Francisco Garello Jr., spokesperson of the Army’s 4th Infantry Division, said the jet crashed in the mountains of Barangay Miarayon in Talakag town.

“Also, [we confirm that] the bodies of two pilots were found near the wreckage of [the] FA-50,” Garello said in a Viber message.

Garello added that the troops of the 1st Special Forces Battalion under the Army’s 403rd Infantry Brigade reached the crash site on Wednesday morning.

The ill-fated jet was part of a mission called in on Monday night to provide air support to government troops battling communist rebels in Bukidnon.

The PAF said the jet, which flew out of the Benito Ebuen Airbase in Mactan, lost communication past midnight on Tuesday as it was nearing the target area.

Amid gloomy weather, soldiers brought in by a military chopper and civilian volunteers scoured the Kalatungan range on Tuesday to search for the missing aircraft and its pilots. (Faith Argosino, Joselle R. Badilla – @inquirerdotnetInquirer Mindanao, INQUIRER.net )

PhilHealth to expand services to Bukidnon IPs

Posted on by cmn

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (February 11, 2025, 9:42 pm) – The Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) is working to expand its coverage to indigenous peoples (IPs) in Bukidnon province

PhilHealth Bukidnon local health insurance chief Romulo Lapuz Jr. said on Tuesday that one of the agency’s goals is to provide free health insurance to the seven tribes in the province.
“We hope to sign a memorandum of agreement with our indigenous peoples by the end of the year,” he said.
Lapuz said registering indigenous peoples with PhilHealth will save time and enable the agency to assist them.
PhilHealth Region 10 (Northern Mindanao) Vice President Delio Aseron II said that other health packages were launched to celebrate National Health Insurance Month.
“PhilHealth Region 10 will continue to advance the National Health Insurance Program and Universal Health Care for all 5.2 million Filipinos in the region,” he said. (Nef Luczon/PNA)

PNP-10 deploys 13,414 checkpoints as COMELEC rallies government support

Posted on by cmn

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (February 11, 2025) — As the 2025 national and local elections approach, the Philippine National Police Regional Office (PNP-PRO)-10 has deployed 13,414 checkpoints across northern Mindanao to ensure a secure and orderly election period. This extensive operation is part of a coordinated effort with the Commission on Elections (COMELEC)-10, which has mobilized various government agencies to uphold the integrity of the electoral process

“The Police Regional Office-10 conducted threat and risk assessments for COMELEC officials to ensure their security during the 2025 election period and prevent violence targeting election officers. Out of 99 election officers in Region 10, 96 were assessed as having no threat, including the Regional Elections Director,” said PCol. Reynante Reyes, chief of the Regional Operations Division.
He added that PNP-10 has also conducted a one-day checkpoint seminar to train personnel on proper procedures for election-related checkpoints, focusing on gun bans, enforcement, and inter-agency coordination.
“To enhance security, our Police Regional Office implemented fragmented and overlapping checkpoints, making it difficult for individuals with illicit intentions to predict locations or times. These unpredictable tactics discourage dangerous and unlawful activities, encouraging stricter adherence to election laws,” Reyes said.
At the checkpoints, PNP-10 confiscated 28 firearms, 25 small arms, three light weapons, other ammunition, and arrested 29 violators. This operation was conducted in collaboration with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Philippine Coast Guard, local traffic management units, the Highway Patrol Group, and the Land Transportation Office.
He also noted that the crime environment in Region 10 has seen significant improvements, with a 37.31 percent drop in index crimes and a 10.34 percent reduction in non-index crimes compared to previous years. Reyes attributed these achievements to aggressive law enforcement, community engagement, and strategic interventions targeting high-risk areas such as Iligan City and Cagayan de Oro City.

COMELEC’s call for a whole-of-nation approach
Misamis Occidental Election Officer Lawyer Rowell Valledor emphasized the importance of a whole-nation approach to election security. He stated that COMELEC directives take precedence over other government orders, particularly regarding personnel movements, to ensure fair and transparent operations.
Valledor also highlighted the role of law enforcement in maintaining peace, enforcing the gun ban, and preventing armed individuals from approaching polling centers. “There is an absolute prohibition within a 50-meter radius of the polling place. Both state and non-state armed actors, whether affiliated with the government or not, are prohibited from being within this radius,” he explained.
To curb election-related offenses, Valledor mentioned that COMELEC has partnered with the National Bureau of Investigation, the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, and the Department of the Interior and Local Government. These agencies will closely monitor threats, vote-buying, and misinformation campaigns related to the elections.
The PNP and NBI cybersecurity units have established a special online campaign monitoring committee to combat false information related to the elections. “At least there is this new committee because many of us are spending time at home or online, and the information we receive may not be accurate. This committee will regulate misinformation and hold accountable those who unfairly campaign during the upcoming elections,” Valledor said.
As the May 12, 2025 elections approach, government agencies are continuing to collaborate to uphold democracy. Valledor compared this collective effort to NASA’s historic moon landing mission, emphasizing that every individual—from security forces to election officers—plays a vital role in ensuring a free, fair, and peaceful election. (Recthie T. Paculba/PIA-10)

Northern Mindanao RDC members, solons review FY 2026 regional budget proposals

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – Members of the Regional Development Council (RDC) and Northern Mindanao Congresspersons scrutinized the proposed regional budget of P416.04 billion for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026. The proposal includes 46 agency regional offices, government-owned and controlled corporations, and 11 state universities and colleges.
During the Joint RDC-X Full Council and Advisory Committee Meeting on February 6, 2025, at the Chali Resort and Conference Center, the proposed budgets were endorsed to the agency central offices (ACOs) and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) for inclusion in the FY 2026 National Expenditure Program, subject to modifications requested by the congresspersons and RDC-X members.
The Infrastructure and Utilities Development Sector holds the largest share of the regional budget proposal at P224.69 billion (54%), with 95.05 percent allocated to the Department of Public Works and Highways-X for national road and flood control projects.
The Social Development Sector follows with P146.59 billion (35.20%), of which 45 percent is designated for the Department of Education-X to enhance basic education services and improve lifelong learning.
The Economic Development Sector has a proposed budget of P38.72 billion (9.31%), with 84.27 percent primarily allocated for farm-to-market road projects under the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10.
Lastly, the Macro and Development Administration Sector proposes P6.03 billion (1.45%) for various catalytic infrastructure projects, including police stations and army camp development.
The final budget proposals, incorporating the comments, recommendations, and requested augmentations from congresspersons and RDC-X members, will be submitted—along with the RDC-X endorsement—to the relevant ACOs and the DBM in March 2025.
“These budget proposals are more than just numbers; they reflect our priorities, the needs of our communities, and our collective vision for Northern Mindanao’s growth and progress,” said Imelda Quibranza-Dimaporo, RDC-X Chairperson and Lanao del Norte Provincial Governor.
The regional budget preparation process began with the Regional Budget Forum on January 8, 2025, followed by handholding activities, stakeholder consultations, and sectoral committee meetings, concluding on February 4, 2025.
“We are fortunate to have with us the esteemed members of our Advisory Committee, particularly our Region X Congresspersons, who play a crucial role in ensuring that the budget proposals we endorse today are effectively advocated in Congress and eventually in the Senate,” added Dimaporo.
The meeting was co-convened by Rufus B. Rodriguez, Representative of Cagayan de Oro’s 2nd Congressional District.
The FY 2026 budget proposal represents a 321 percent increase compared to the FY 2025 GAA-approved budget, highlighting the region’s intensified funding needs for social, macro administration, economic, and infrastructure development priorities. (NEDA-X/PIA-10)

Agri-10 4k Program nagbubo sa mga interbensyon sa agri sa IP org

Posted on by Melchor Madera

Ang Department of Agriculture (DA-10), pinaagi sa programa sa Kabuhayan at Kaunlaran ng Kabayang Katutubo (4K), nihatag og duolan nga Php318,000 nga kantidad alang sa agricultural interventions sa Panasalan Dagumnaan Talaandig Tribe Association (PADATTA)

Sumala sa kasayoran sa DA-10, ang programa nagsuporta sa paghatag gahum sa mga komunidad sa mga lumad sa Northern Mindanao.

Niadtong Enero 24, 2025, sa Sitio Kawilihan, Dagumbaan, Maramag, Bukidnon, ang departamento, nga gipangulohan ni Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan pinaagi ni April Grace M. Racines, program focal person, sa kooperasyon sa Municipal Agriculture Office sa Maramag, nihatag sa unom ka carabao nga nibalor og Php300,000 ug nagkalain-laing mga binhi sa utanon nga nagkantidad og Php17,995.00 ngadto sa PADATTA, nga girepresentahan sa iyang presidente nga si Bae Vilma Morena.

Sa ilawom sa Production and Livelihood nga bahin sa Programa, ang mga probisyon sa agrikultura, nga kaniadto gikuha gikan sa research complex sa DA-10, nagtinguha sa pagpauswag sa produktibidad ug kita sa mga mag-uuma nga IP pinaagi sa pagpalambo sa mga sustainable nga negosyo sa agrikultura, pinaagi sa lig-on nga pakig-uban sa mga miyembro sa asosasyon alang sa pag-uswag sa agrikultura.

Ang maong turnover nagtimaan usab sa laing alon sa tabang sa PADATTA. Sama sa nahinumduman, niadtong Nobyembre, ang pipila ka mga napiling miyembro sa asosasyon nakasalmot sa isa ka pagbansay sa produksyon sa mais ug postharvest nga teknolohiya, nga gihimo sa Malaybalay City. (melbmadera)

Army installs new 4ID commander, pledges peacebuilding efforts

Posted on by Heber Quinco

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (January 28, 2025, 7:21 pm) – The Philippine Army on Tuesday installed Brig. Gen. Michele Anayron Jr. as the new commander of the 4th Infantry Division (4ID), overseeing parts of Northern Mindanao and the Caraga region

In his inaugural speech, Anayron emphasized his commitment to advancing peace and development in collaboration with various stakeholders and ensuring robust security measures within the division’s areas of responsibility.

“Through peace and development zones, we implement high-impact programs with the aid of national agencies, local government units, non-government organizations, and the private sector,” he said.

Anayron underscored the importance of multi-stakeholder support in addressing the root causes of insurgency, which is a priority under his command.

He succeeded Brig. Gen. Consolito Yecla, who served as acting commander after the retirement of Maj. Gen. Jose Ma. Cuerpo II earlier this month.

Prior to his appointment, Anayron commanded the 403rd Infantry Brigade in Bukidnon province, leading battalions and special forces that played a crucial role in dismantling New People’s Army (NPA) guerrilla fronts.

His military career began in 1992 when he served as a civil-military operations officer in the Visayas. He later held prominent leadership roles in Mindanao, including assignments with the Eastern Mindanao Command and the Mechanized Infantry Division.

Anayron is a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Tanglaw-Diwa” Class of 1992 and has completed specialized military training, including the Scout Ranger and Armor Officer Basic courses, with distinction. He also trained internationally, participating in Special Operations Team training in Queensland, Australia, and completing the Grade 2 Staff Officer Course.

Alongside his military credentials, Anayron holds a Master’s in Business Administration from Xavier University, a Master’s in Public Management from the Development Academy of the Philippines, and a Master’s in National Security Administration from the National Defense College of the Philippines.

“Under my leadership, the 4ID will continue its mission to foster peaceful and resilient communities,” Anayron said.

Agri-10 eyes strengthened beef cattle marketing innovations among NorMin industry stakeholders

Posted on by cmn

MANOLO FORTICH, Bukidnon — As demand for beef cattle production and marketing grows, the Department of Agriculture – Northern Mindanao (DA-10), led by Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan, hosted a beef cattle marketing innovations seminar and workshop on January 24 to foster networking and collaboration among stakeholders

Following a memorandum from the DA Office of the Assistant Secretary highlighting the need for innovative marketing strategies and technological advancements to support the beef cattle industry, DA-10 aims to equip producers with modern marketing tools to enhance product visibility and consumer engagement.


In his message, DA Assistant Secretary for Ruminant Livestock Benjamin C. Albarece, DVM, emphasized the market’s importance as a foundation for improving livelihoods in the livestock industry.


“We are here today to address marketing challenges and explore collaboration to create effective plans that will serve as a foundation for our guidelines and policies. It is essential to hear from farmers at the grassroots level about how we can assist them,” he stated.
Guest speakers Raymund Mirabueno and Allan Noel S. Bernales

highlighted the importance of social media platforms in marketing and discussed marketable cattle breeds in the region, such as the Brahman-based bloodline.


The seminar-workshop provided a venue to navigate challenges such as changing consumer preferences, technological advancements, and increased global competition, emphasizing social media’s role in the long-term success of the beef cattle industry.


Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD) Market Specialist I Mariflor A. Balabat outlined key market destinations for large animals in Mindanao between September and November 2024, including Agusan del Sur with 426 heads, Davao del Sur with 195 heads, and Davao del Norte with 112 heads.


Livestock focal person Jamaica L. Docdoc presented the livestock growth rate by production volume, noting that Northern Mindanao was the top cattle-producing region in the second quarter of 2024, generating 10,635.8 metric tons, which contributed 17.4 percent to the national total.
The consolidated data from the seminar will be submitted to the DA Office of the Assistant Secretary to serve as a reference for a multi-year plan and future guidelines and policies to support the livestock industry.


The event was attended by representatives from the DA Office of the Assistant Secretary, the National Livestock Program Directorate, the Provincial Veterinary Office of Bukidnon, the Local Government of Manolo Fortich, large ruminant commercial raisers, and beneficiaries of the Artificial Insemination Program. (MAC)