Saturday, March 29, 2025

Tag: PIA

36 Ex-NPA Rebels Surrender in Bukidnon

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MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon — Thirty-six former New People’s Army (NPA) leaders and combatants recently surrendered to the Philippine Army’s 403rd Brigade, 4th Infantry Division. They were presented to the Bukidnon provincial government on January 10 at Camp Osito Bahian, Malaybalay City

The surrenderees turned over 55 high-powered firearms, including an M-60 machine gun, and pledged allegiance to the government.


Brigadier General Michele Anayron Jr., commander of the 403rd Brigade, expressed gratitude to the former rebels, calling their surrender a significant step towards peace and stability in Northern Mindanao.

“Akong pagpasalamat sa atong mga sundalo, pulis, local government units, civil society organizations, ug concerned citizens for participating in the ELCAC campaign. Kini nga kampanya involves municipal, provincial, and line agencies. Naa sila gatabang sa ato pinaagi sa paghatag sa support services sama sa livelihood assistance, skills training, ug uban pa, aron masulbad ang insurgency problem sa nasud labi na dinhi sa atong probinsya sa Bukidnon,” he said.


(I thanked the military, police, local government units, civil society organizations, and concerned citizens. They help provide support services, such as livelihood assistance and skills training, to address the insurgency problem in the country, especially here in Bukidnon.)


He urged remaining insurgents to surrender and embrace peace.


Arnel Arcaya, alias Sky, a former NPA leader, shared his difficult experiences within the rebel group and thanked the government for supporting his reintegration into society.


In a press conference, Arcaya expressed his desire to leave his past behind and start anew, inspired by the government’s reintegration efforts.


The military credited Cong. Jonathan Keith T. Flores of the 2nd Congressional District for facilitating the surrender of former NPA leaders, highlighting the success of the whole-of-nation approach.


Cong. Flores emphasized the importance of inter-agency cooperation in defeating insurgency and thanked the surrendered NPA members for rejoining society.


“The presence of government agencies in the mountains, delivering essential services to marginalized communities, has encouraged many to return to peaceful lives,” he said. (Bernadith G. Epan/PIA 10-Bukidnon)

DAR-10 distributes over 320,000 hectares to ARBs, showcases agrarian reform milestones

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MISAMIS ORIENTAL (December 29, 2024) – The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) 10 highlighted significant accomplishments in its key programs, reaffirming its commitment to improving the lives of agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs)

In Kapihan sa PIA, DAR-10 Regional Director Zoraida Macadindang underscored the positive impact of their programs and projects on agrarian reform beneficiaries.
“Dako na kaayo ang among nahimo for this year 2024, nadugangan ang among accomplishments in terms of cumulative and na-implement na namo ug nakapanghatag nami sa certificate of condonation with release of real estate mortgage, naka-produce ug thousands of e-titles pinaagi sa SPLIT project, ug daghan ta napanghatag nga CLOAs,” Macadindang said.
(This year, 2024, we achieved significant milestones, including distributing certificates of condonation with real estate mortgage releases, producing thousands of e-titles through the SPLIT project, and issuing numerous CLOAs.)
As of November 2024, Macadindang reported a 97.28 percent completion of the Land Tenure Improvement Program (LTIP), distributing 320,993 hectares to 187,723 ARBs. The region also achieved 136,105 hectares in leasehold agreements, benefiting 51,300 leaseholders.
Under Republic Act No. 11953, the New Agrarian Emancipation Act, 6,538 Certificates of Condonation with Mortgage Releases were issued to ARBs, covering 8,219 hectares, mostly in Bukidnon. Additionally, the agency distributed 2,441 e-titles, converting 364 collective CLOAs into individual titles for 1,984 beneficiaries across 2,816 hectares.
Under the Agrarian Justice Delivery Program, DAR-10 has resolved 1,823 judicial cases, 28,074 quasi-judicial cases, and 54,567 Agrarian Law Implementation (ALI) cases, ensuring secure, sustainable land ownership for ARBs while effectively resolving disputes.
Macadindang attributed the region’s positive results to the efficiency of their skilled adjudicators.
She emphasized that they maintained a zero-case backlog, earning a Hall of Fame award from the DAR Central Office.
“We are closely monitored for case aging to ensure timely resolution. Cases are resolved promptly upon meeting all requirements,” she added.
Meanwhile, the Agrarian Reform Beneficiary Development Sustainability Program (ARBDSP) supports 504 active Agrarian Reform Beneficiary Organizations (ARBOs) across 176 agrarian reform communities (ARCs), benefiting a total of 239,446 ARBs.
To empower ARBs further, 26 ongoing agrarian reform projects worth P376 million are being implemented. Six more projects, valued at P150.5 million, are set to begin, while 440 proposed projects totaling P27.6 billion await approval. The total investment in these projects exceeds P28.15 billion, with Bukidnon receiving the largest share.
These achievements demonstrate DAR’s commitment to advancing its programs, providing ARBs in Northern Mindanao with improved economic opportunities and quality of life. DAR encourages those interested in its programs to visit their local offices across the region. (Jan Albert K. Araña/PIA-10)

DOH implements ‘Purok Kalusugan,’ opens BUCAS centers in Normin

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CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (January 8, 2025) — ‘Purok Kalusugan’ and ‘Bagong (New) Urgent Care and Ambulatory Services’ (BUCAS) centers are two programs implemented by the Department of Health Center for Health Development Northern Mindanao (DOH-CHDNM) under the Universal Health Care Act (UHC) that bring health services closer to the people, especially the farthest and smallest communities

In a press conference organized by the DOH-CHDNM, Dr. Steffi Grace H. Enon, DOH-CHDNM chief of the local health support division, shared that ‘Purok Kalusugan’ is aligned with the UHC. “Gikan sa iyang ngalan nga Purok Kalusugan, atong gusto nga ang mga serbisyo nga pangkalusugan o panglawas dal-on nato sa level sa purok,” she said.


(From its name, Purok Kalusugan, we want all services related to health and nutrition to be brought to the level of a zone.)


The UHC Act has many goals, said Enon, but its main goal is that “We want all Filipinos to experience health services that are accessible, affordable, close to them, of quality, and safe.”


The Purok Kalusugan program includes all eight priority health outcomes of DOH, which will be implemented at the “purok,” or zone level.


The eight priority health outcomes include vaccination, nutrition, water supply, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), maternal health, tuberculosis and HIV, road safety, non-communicable diseases (specifically high blood pressure and diabetes), and cancer.


These eight priority outcomes are called high burdens because many people are affected by them. The Department of Health is focusing on these eight. “If we can improve them, we can say that our community will be healthy,” Enon said.


Opening of BUCAS centers in Northern Mindanao


The Department of Health has launched a new initiative, the Bagong (New) Urgent Care and Ambulatory Services (BUCAS) facility, under the management of DOH hospitals.


Dr. Raymond G. Dela Cruz, the chief of the regulations, licensing, and enforcement division at DOH-CHDNM, stated that this facility will address the issue of congestion in the region’s government hospitals.


“Kasagara niini ang problema, dugay sila maatiman tungod sa kadaghan, limitado ang lugar sa hospital aron maka-accommodate kanila, so ang initiative sa Department of Health mao nga i-forward position kining serbisyo sa atong mga komunidad nga ang mga hospital mu-perform og mga minor surgeries ug mga konsultasyon nga nagkinahanglan og espesyalista. Ang mga ancillary services, mga specialized laboratory exam, ug x-rays idala sa BUCAS centers,” Dela Cruz said.


(This is usually the problem; it takes a long time to attend to them because of the large number, and the hospital space is limited to accommodate them. So, the initiative of the Department of Health is to forward-position these services in our communities so that hospitals perform minor surgeries and consultations requiring specialists. Ancillary services, specialized laboratory exams, and x-rays will be brought to BUCAS centers.)


Currently, there are four operational BUCAS centers in Northern Mindanao. The North Eastern Misamis General Hospital, located in Villanueva, Misamis Oriental, is one of the DOH hospitals; another in Misamis Occidental is located in Plaridel, managed by Mayor Hilarion A. Ramiro Sr. Medical Center (MHARS-MC), a tertiary government hospital in Ozamiz City. The next is in Mambajao, Camiguin, managed by Camiguin General Hospital; however, the purpose is to transfer this center to Sagay, Camiguin.


The idea of BUCAS, according to Dela Cruz, is to place it far from hospitals so that those who need services will go to the centers closer to their communities instead of the hospitals.


While DOH hospitals manage this initiative, local government units have generously volunteered to contribute significantly towards the construction of the centers.


Currently, there are four local governments in the pipeline that have volunteered to provide lots; one of them is Magsaysay in Misamis Oriental, Bacolod in Lanao del Norte, the Malaybalay local government unit in Bukidnon, and Balo-i in Lanao del Norte. (Jasper Marie O. Rucat/PIA-10)

OCD equips regions with water filtration, communication systems for emergencies

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CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (August 20, 2024/PIA) — The Office of Civil Defense enhances its disaster preparedness and response capabilities by investing in water filtration systems and reliable communication technologies

According to OCD-10 Director Antonio Sugarol, these initiatives are part of a broader strategy of OCD’s Administrator, Usec. Ariel Nepomuceno, to modernize and equip the organization with the resources necessary to effectively address emergencies.

He said OCD has initially equipped its regional offices with water filtration units, recognizing the critical role of clean water in emergencies.

The regional director also shared plans to acquire additional units similar to those used by the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) that can rapidly purify contaminated water, providing a vital lifeline to affected communities.

“At the moment, we have two mobile water filtration systems. It is in our office,” he stated.

Sugarol said the OCD has also implemented a regional collaboration policy that allows neighboring regions to share resources during emergencies.

“For example, in Region 10, we can anticipate that Region 9, Region 12, and Region 11 will contribute their mobile water filtration systems to the OCD Region 10,” he explained.

In addition to water filtration, the OCD addresses the equally critical need for reliable communication channels. Sugarol said the recent experience in Misamis Occidental, where cellular networks were disrupted following a shear line, underscored the importance of alternative communication systems.

To augment the communication capabilities of local government units, the OCD is working in partnership with the Department of Information and Communications Technology to provide satellite phones and VISAT systems. These technologies will ensure uninterrupted communication during disasters, facilitating coordination between local governments, government agencies, and emergency responders. (Apipa P. Bagumbaran/PIA-10)

Hedcor turns over ₱5.1M royalty shares to Bukidnon IP communities

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MANOLO FORTICH, Bukidnon (December 29, 2024) — Hedcor, the renewable energy asset manager of AboitizPower, has turned over ₱5,140,167.01 in royalty shares to Indigenous Peoples (IP) communities in Bukidnon for 2022-2023. These funds directly benefit the host communities of Hedcor’s Manolo Fortich 1 and 2 hydroelectric power plants, advancing inclusive growth and sustainable development

Five Indigenous Peoples (IP) organizations received their royalties, signifying progress for their communities. The Santiago Tribal Community (SANTRICO), Inc. and Impakibel, Apo Man Asilan Tribal Association were each awarded ₱1,401,529.47. Meanwhile, the Lumikapaw Ka Guihean Tribal Council of Elders and Guilang-Guilang Apo Datu Nanikunan Association, Inc. each received ₱935,578.60. The Buklod Kayantang Tribal Association, Inc. was granted ₱465,950.87. These funds embody a commitment to empowering and uplifting Indigenous communities, going beyond mere financial support.
The funds will be used for initiatives identified by the IP communities themselves, including livelihood assistance, skills training to strengthen economic resilience, scholarships for Indigenous youth, and elder care programs.
The projects will also help empower women entrepreneurs, preserve traditional practices, and advance environmental efforts such as reforestation.
Bae Priscilla Cariaga, President of Buklod Kayantang Tribal Association, Inc., expressed gratitude for the turnover.
“Ang pagtinabangay uban sa Hedcor nagpalambo sa among komunidad. Ang mga pondo makatabang sa pagpreserba sa among kultura, pagtubag sa mga kinahanglanon, ug paghimo og mga oportunidad para sa umaabot nga henerasyon,” she said.
(Working together with Hedcor has developed our community. The funds help preserve our culture, address our needs, and create opportunities for future generations.)
Implemented closely with the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Region 10, the program ensures that projects align with cultural preservation and ancestral domain protection.
“Through joint efforts, we achieve meaningful progress for Indigenous Peoples, safeguarding their heritage while promoting development,” said lawyer Dexter B. Precioso, NCIP regional legal officer.
Hedcor Vice President for Corporate Services Noreen Vicencio said the giving out of royalty shares underscores Hedcor’s zeal to collaborate with IP organizations to enhance community well-being.
“This turnover is more than just meeting our obligations—it reflects our commitment to a meaningful partnership. We are honored to support the IP organizations’ efforts to advance livelihood, education, and cultural heritage.
By working side by side, we help ensure a lasting, positive impact that strengthens their communities and enriches their future,” Vicencio said.
She reiterated that by returning these royalty shares to the communities, Hedcor continues to advance renewable energy while strengthening communities, protecting cultural identities, and fostering long-term growth and opportunity. (Hedcor-AboitizPower/PIA-10/Bukidnon)

Bukidnon aims to be PH’s Arabica Capital with coffee roadmap

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MALAYBALAY CITY (August 28, 2024/PIA) — “Bukidnon’s coffee beans, renowned worldwide for their quality, have elevated the province as a global coffee destination. We have world-class coffee beans right here in our backyard. It’s time to unleash their full potential,” declared Governor Rogelio Neil P. Roque

Despite this international acclaim, the governor emphasized that the local coffee industry remains weak and underdeveloped. However, he believes the province’s coffee industry is on the cusp of a transformation.

To achieve this revitalization, Roque aims to establish Bukidnon as the “Arabica Capital” of the Philippines. In a recent state-of-the-province address, he referred to the coffee potential as a hidden treasure, underscoring the untapped opportunities.

He said that with the right strategies and investments, Bukidnon can become a shining example of how to turn agricultural resources into economic prosperity.

To turn this vision into reality, the provincial government has established a technical working group (TWG) dedicated to crafting a comprehensive coffee roadmap.

This collaborative effort brings together farmers, processors, sellers, café owners, baristas, and coffee enthusiasts to chart a course for the industry’s growth.

The roadmap will prioritize improving coffee quality and marketability using advanced processing techniques.

Bukidnon seeks to boost its local economy and generate new opportunities for farmers and entrepreneurs by reinventing raw coffee beans into high-value products like roasted and ground coffee.

“We want to add value to our coffee beans. We aim to increase farmers’ income and establish Bukidnon as a leader in the global coffee market,” Roque said.

He explained that the newly created TWG is a significant milestone for Bukidnon’s coffee sector because the expertise and experience of various stakeholders could develop a sustainable and profitable coffee industry that can compete globally.

Bukidnon envisions a future where local products, including coffee, are celebrated domestically and internationally.

As the province embarks on this pursuit, the successful implementation of the Coffee Roadmap could serve as a model for other regions seeking to harness their unique agricultural products for economic development. (Bernadith G. Epan/PIA 10-Bukidnon)

Bukidnon approves historic IP Code to protect rights, promote cultural growth

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MALAYBALAY CITY (July 15, 2024/PIA) — The Sangguniang Panlalawigan approved the Bukidnon Indigenous Peoples (IP) Code on its third and final reading on July 2

The provincial legislators carefully examined the provisions, weighing the potential impacts on the province’s seven tribes and considering various perspectives.

Their rigorous discussions and debates during the first and second readings ensured that the ordinance aligned with constitutional rights, resulting in a consensus emphasizing the importance of protecting and fostering the cultural development of Bukidnon IP communities.

Championed by Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) lawyer Arbie Llesis, the ordinance aims to protect and foster the cultural development of the seven tribes by establishing mechanisms to preserve their traditions.

“The newly approved ordinance focuses on empowering IPs in the province through several key elements: First, it grants rightful ownership and control of ancestral domains, recognizing their deep connection to the land. Second, it promotes social justice by ensuring equitable treatment and opportunities for these communities. Third, it preserves cultural heritage by protecting languages, traditions, and customs essential to their identity. Lastly, it safeguards IP rights, ensuring they are respected and upheld across all aspects of society,” he said.

Officially known as Ordinance No. 052-2024, or An Ordinance Providing for the Comprehensive Indigenous Welfare and Development Code in the Province of Bukidnon, it represents an advancement in aligning local governance with the mandates of the United Nations, the Philippine Constitution, and national laws concerning IPs.

Llesis clarified that the ordinance aims to create an inclusive environment by honoring IP traditions, empowering them to shape their future, recognizing their vital role, and ensuring they have the necessary resources to thrive.

“The IP Code addresses historical exclusion faced by Indigenous Peoples, emphasizing their land rights and culture preservation while promoting self-determination. It supports development programs and ensures Indigenous communities have access to government resources,” he added.

Former IPMR Richard Dinlayan Macas emphasized the importance of the IP Code, aligning it with the tribes’ aspirations.

“It embodies the dreams of our ancestors, who yearned for recognition of their rights. We are all thankful for its approval as we collectively work towards the province’s progress,” Macas said.

Datu Migketay Victorino Saway, chair of the provincial tribal council, underscored the code’s broader implications.

“The IP Code strengthens our commitment to peace and order, promoting IP recognition and cultural identity. As a community, standing together to support the IP Code uplifts not only Indigenous Peoples but the entire province of Bukidnon,” he said. (Jessa M. Cleopas/PIA-10/Bukidnon)

DOT-10 showcases Mindanao’s 1st travel hub in Bukidnon to boost tourism, MSMEs

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MALAYBALAY CITY (July 15, 2024/PIA) — The Department of Tourism (DOT)-10 reported that the opening of the tourist rest area (TRA) in the scenic town of Manolo Fortich in Bukidnon marks the first TRA in Mindanao to enhance the travel experience for local and international visitors

Marie Elaine Unchuan, DOT regional director for northern Mindanao, said during the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas media forum on July 2 that the TRA sets a new benchmark for travelers’ comfort and convenience following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directives to enhance the country’s tourism sector by improving facilities and resources that can significantly boost the economy.

“The tourist rest area opened in August last year and promises to redefine the journey for domestic and foreign tourists. Its clean, well-ventilated restrooms and inviting seating areas create a relaxing oasis for weary travelers,” she said.

With maps, guides, and expert tips, its information center is essential for tourists exploring northern Mindanao’s attractions.

Showcasing culture and local products

Unchuan said the TRA doubles as a vibrant shop, offering a selected range of local delicacies and handcrafted souvenirs.

“Visitors can indulge in Bukidnon’s famous coffee, savor delectable pastries, or purchase unique keepsakes crafted by local artisans. It delights travelers and supports micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) along with other local businesses,” she added.

Beyond its Pasalubong center, the TRA showcases local artwork, such as paintings and intricate leaf carvings, enhancing atmospheric energy and displaying the region’s artistic talent.

Inclusive amenities for all needs

Multiculturalism and inclusivity are TRA’s design principles. It caters to diverse travelers’ needs. The lounge and charging stations provide a comfortable space for tourists to relax and recharge their devices.

The coffee shop offers a selection of beverages and snacks, perfect for a quick refreshment break.

The TRA offers family-friendly amenities such as clean restrooms with showers and a lactation room to cater to the needs of even the youngest travelers.

Strategic location for maximum convenience

Travelers exploring Bukidnon and nearby provinces will find TRA an ideal pit stop due to its strategic location at the crossroads of major travel routes. Its proximity to Misamis Oriental, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, North Cotabato, and Lanao del Sur enhances accessibility for visitors discovering the region’s natural and cultural wonders.

Emalyn Cagolcol, a traveler from Valencia City, described the tourist rest area in Manolo Fortich as truly one of a kind.

“It was more than a mere rest stop. The facilities are not only clean and well-kept. It is also scenically situated amidst the serene landscapes of Bukidnon. It provided a much-needed break during our trip, allowing us to recharge and refresh ourselves before continuing our adventure,” she shared.

Manolo Fortich TRA is the second DOT-managed rest area in the country, following the successful model established in Medellin, Cebu.

“This TRA exemplifies DOT’s commitment to providing world-class facilities nationwide, ensuring travelers have access to modern and well-maintained facilities,” the DOT-10 regional director said. (Ruby Leonora R. Balistoy/PIA-10/Bukidnon)

DOH-10 urges LGUs to intensify tracking of dengue, measles, chikungunya virus

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CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (March 29, 2024/PIA) – The Department of Health (DOH)-10 urges LGUs to ramp up the surveillance of dengue, measles, and chikungunya virus after cases soared from January to March

During the Northern Mindanao Disaster Risk Reduction Management 1st Quarter Full Council meeting, DOH reported that dengue, measles, and chikungunya had increased compared to the same months last year.

Its current data showed a 34.27 percent increase in dengue cases, from 3,032 to 4,071. Measles cases surged by 94.33 percent, from 53 to 103. Chikungunya cases spiked from 7 to 89, marking a staggering 1,171.43 percent rise.

Dengue and chikungunya cases

The disease surveillance data showed that Bukidnon has the most dengue cases in Northern Mindanao, with 1,121 cases (959 admissions with 153 confirmed cases); Misamis Oriental has 845 cases (591 admissions, 79 confirmed); Lanao del Norte reported 574 cases (450 admissions, 115 confirmed); Iligan City reported 319 cases (310 admissions, 114 confirmed); Cagayan de Oro City reported 222 cases (207 admissions, 6 confirmed); and Camiguin reported 89 cases (81 admitted and 47 confirmed).

Bukidnon reported the most dengue-related deaths (19), followed by Misamis Occidental (4), Misamis Oriental (3), Lanao del Norte (4), Iligan City (1), Cagayan de Oro City (2), and Camiguin (1).

Chikungunya, another mosquito-borne viral illness transmitted by the same Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitos that carry dengue and Zika, has significantly increased. Misamis Oriental leads the list with 50 cases, followed by Misamis Occidental (18), Bukidnon (12), Camiguin (4), Iligan City (4), and Cagayan de Oro City (1).

Measles cases surveillance

DOH-10 intensifies measles cases surveillance following the disease surge in a neighboring province. The tracking team reported 103 infected children aged 1 to 5. Lanao del Norte has 58 cases (54 hospitalized), followed by Misamis Oriental (14 cases, 11 hospitalized), Cagayan de Oro City (8 cases, 3 hospitalized), Bukidnon (8 cases), Iligan City (7 cases, 5 hospitalized), Misamis Occidental (6 cases, 3 hospitalized), and Camiguin (2 cases, 1 hospitalized).

“The sudden rise in measles cases can be attributed to children’s failure to receive vaccinations,” according to DOH-10 nurse Iris Christine Torralba.

She said COVID-19 disrupted vaccinations as the ‘No Vaccine, No Entry’ policy caused delays. Now, Lanao del Norte faces a measles surge. DOH-10 mobilized an outbreak team to Balo-i and Amai Pakpak Medical Center to stop the spread.

In addition to the response team, resources like viral transport media (VTM) and vaccines were strategically placed and boosted in LDN.

The DOH-10 coordinated with the integrated provincial health offices of Lanao del Sur and Marawi City. It collaborated with national immunization program coordinators to conduct outbreak response immunization in high-case areas.

“The regional office collects data from local government units (LGUs), contributing to our generated data. We are approaching the epidemic threshold and have advised LGUs to enhance their surveillance systems in recent weeks,” DOH-10 Regional Director Sulpicio Henry Legaspi said.

He recommended that local governments monitor movements, particularly in Balo-i, the epicenter of the measles outbreak, because 92 percent of recorded cases include unvaccinated or under-immunized children, indicating the need for focused immunization activities in high-case areas.

Legaspi said the DOH-10 is coordinating with Lanao del Sur to monitor Marawi City due to high population mobility, saying there is a risk of measles spreading to Iligan City and Cagayan de Oro City due to its contagious nature.

“We have enough vaccine supply and await the request for additional health workers needed for outbreak response immunization,” he clarified.

The health department assures the public they are addressing the situation, collaborating with LGUs to intensify measles case monitoring and urging parents to vaccinate children aged 0-59 months against measles and other diseases. (Jan Albert K. Araña/PIA10)

Army confirms 9 terrorists involved in Marawi blast killed in Lanao del Sur

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The Philippine Army on Saturday, January 27, confirmed the death of nine members of the Dawlah Islamiyah terrorist organization involved in the bombing of Dimaporo gymnasium inside the Mindanao State University in Marawi City

Army Public Affairs chief, Col. Louie Dema-ala, said the operating troops from the 3rd Scout Ranger Battalion, under the 103rd Infantry (Haribon) Brigade of the 1st Infantry Division, engaged in a series of firefight with heavily armed Dawlah Islamiya members from Thursday to Friday this week, in Barangay Tapurong, Piagapo, Lanao del Sur.

“The Army troops were able to neutralize nine local terrorist members and recovered eight high-powered firearms. Neutralized individuals were identified as perpetrators of the fatal MSU bombing on December 3, 2023,” Dema-ala told reporters.

Four soldiers were hurt during the encounters, which were triggered by the military’s internal security operations.

Dema-ala said the soldiers were immediately transported to the Amai Pakpak Medical Center in Marawi City “to acquire urgent medical attention.”

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the four soldiers who sustained injuries during the said operation. We remain committed to ensuring their swift recovery,” Dema-ala said. (Lade Jean Kabagani/tribune.net.ph)