The Official Newsletter of PIA-8 and RTF-8 ELCAC
VOL II NO. 14
July 16-31, 2020
DTI'S PBG PROGRAM PROVIDES TRAINING, LIVELIHOOD KITS TO FR'S IN RTF8-ELCAC IDENTIFIED AREAS By:Olive P. Tiu TACLOBAN CITY -- The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has a program that will support the former rebels (FRs) as they go back to mainstream society. This was disclosed by DTI-8 Regional Director Celerina Bato in an interview at Suruswerte Ha PIA. The Department of Trade has a program that caters to former rebels by providing livelihood assistance through trainings and provision of livelihood kits. This program called Pangkabuhayan sa Pagbangon at Ginhawa Program provides livelihood assistance for fire victims, victims of disasters and FRs. This has two components. One is training. The second is provision of livelihood kits worth P5,000. The total funding of this program is P7,164,000. This will cover
140 LGUs, some 30 LGUs of which are ELCAC LGUs. Director Bato said some 186 former rebels in Leyte, Southern Leyte, Samar, Eastern Samar and Northern Samar have undergone trainings through the Department of Trade. Moreover, 360 FRs have been targetted to receive livelihood kits worth P5,000 each. Of the targetted 360 kits, 200 are for the FRs of San Isidro, Leyte who will be given livelihood kits for food processing, sari-sari store and barber shop. Some 62 carpentry tools, masonry tools, bakeshop and sari-sari stores will be for 62 FRs from Bontoc, Southern Leyte. For the province of Samar, 29 FRs from nine LGUs will receive livelihood kits. They are from Calbiga,
Matuguinao, Catbalogan, San Jorge, San Jose de Buan, Paranas, Basey, Motiong ang Pinabacdao. For the Province of Eastern
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E-CLIP benefits 296 former rebels in EV in 1st semester of 2020 By: Olive P. Tiu TACLOBAN CITY -- The Regional Task Force 8 to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF 8-ELCAC) E-CLIP Cluster was able to process financial assistance worth P13.85 million to 296 former rebels (FRs) under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) in the first semester of 2020. Of these, 47 were former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) while 249 were Militia ng Bayan members. This was disclosed by DILG Information Officer Myles Colasito during the July 22 joint meeting of the Crisis Communications Cluster and the Association of Government Information Officers in Region 8 (AGIO). Colasito said that in the province of Leyte, a total of P11.76 Million was awarded to 33 former NPA members and 229 Militia ng Bayan members. The amount included immediate assistance, livelihood assistance, reintegration assistance
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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
July 16-31 2020
PCA-8 offers planting incentives to coconut farmers By: Gemma T. Tabao
TACLOBAN CITY -- In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) has implemented the Planting/Replanting Incentivized Program, wherein coconut farmers with land area of 0.5 to 1 hectare and have enrolled in this program are given cash incentives. According to PCA Regional Director Joel Pilapil during the PIA-hosted “Suruswerte ha PIA,” an amount of P40 will be given by the office per seedling grown in the farmer’s backyard or nursery, and another P45 for the same seedling once it is transferred and stabilized at the coconut farm. This totals to P85 per seedling. “The government is serious in developing the coconut industry, and to motivate our coco farmers, we are having this Planting / Replanting Program, in efforts to sustain coconut plantation,” Director Pilapil said. However, the director stressed that each farmer is limited only to a maximum of 1 hectare of enrollment which is equivalent to 143 seedlings, so as to give other
farmers the chance to avail of the said program. He also emphasized that farmers who are availing of the program should enroll or inform the coconut development officers in their respective municipalities for the inspection and evaluation before they are given the incentive. “We are limiting to a maximum of one hectare per farmer because we want other farmers to avail of the program, and we have a limited budget for this,” he said. Presently, PCA has a target of 1,200 hectares for the first phase of the program, and looking forward to its expansion. It was also learned from Director Pilapil that there are about 649,000 hectares of coconut plantation in the region. However, the number of coconut trees planted has reduced due to several typhoons that hit the region. He disclosed that a total of P72-M worth of coconut plantation has been recorded by the office before Typhoon Yolanda, but this has lowered to P58-M after the said
CEST is DOST’s contribution to RTFELCAC By:Olive P. Tiu
TACLOBAN CITY -- Community Empowerment through Science and Technology is the Department of Science and Technology’s contribution towards the attainment of RTF8-ELCAC’s goals, Mr. Fernando Buzon said during the Virtual meeting of the RTFELCAC Stratcom Cluster on July 22. From January to June of 2020, DOST has approved and implemented CEST activities in ELCAC identified areas as member of the RTF-ELCAC Poverty Reduction and Employment Cluster. Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) was implemented in San Sebastian, Samar and Tagbayaon, Jiabong, Samar. In Brgy. Balogo and Brgy. Tagbayaon, the community has undergone Community Life Competency Process (CLCP) where the needs of the community were carefully identified by themcontinued on page 17 selves and processed to determine which appropriate intervention will be provided and who will be the agency to take charge. For Brgy. Balogo, Jiabong Samar, training has already been conducted and purchasing of supplies and materials needed to start
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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
July 16-31 2020
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Gov’t troops clash with NPA extortionists in Borongan City By: 78th IB ORAS, Eastern Samar -- Troops of the 78th Infantry (Warrior) Battalion while conducting security patrol engaged in a brief gun battle with more or less seven (7) Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) at Sitio Demingle, Brgy. Pinanag-an, Borongan City, Eastern Samar on Saturday, July 25, 2020, 7:50 a.m. The firefight lasted for a few minutes, which led the group of NPA scampering to different directions. The NPA left behind one (1) improvised grenade, two (2) magazines with ammunition for M16, communist documents and personal belongings. Having been in the brunt of the NPA’s excessive extortion scheme, the civilians fed-up on the NPA’s extortion demand boldly came out and provided the information about the location of the NPA terrorist that led to the armed engagement. The barangay folks now speak about the massive extortion collection happening in many years in the barangays along the stretch of the Suribao River. A former NPA supporter added that the NPAs are collecting one (1) ganta of rice in every farmer, cash collections for every family ranging from P5 to P50 a month depending on the source of income. Even root crops such as cassava and sweet potato harvests of the farmers did not escape from their excessive resource generation
Army engineer construction battalions in EV bare how they support ELCAC By: Olive P. Tiu
TACLOBAN CITY -- The 546 Engineer Construction Battalion and the 543 Engineer Construction Battalion, for the first time, bared how they support the achievement of the mission to End Local Communist Armed Conflict in Eastern Visayas, during the Panindugan Virtual Kapihan among PIA and Friends on July 24. activity. As the country is grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic, these NPA terrorists continue to exacerbate the people’s conditions by forcibly taking their food that resulted in more scarcity of essential resources in these far and isolated barangays. Lt Colonel Oliver C Alvior, commanding officer of 78th IB, extends his gratitude to the civilian populace who overcome fear and does the right thing to stop such an oppressive extortion scheme. “Your Philippine Army will not hesitate to use legitimate military force against those armed groups that threaten the people’s safety and well-being,” he added. (78th IB)
Guests were Lt. Col. Ricnon Carolasan, commanding officer of the 546 Engineer Construction Battalion and Lt. Col. Vedasto Cabales Jr., commanding officer of the 543 Engineer Construction Brigade. The 546 Engineer Construction Battalion’s area of coverage includes Biliran, Leyte, 2nd District of Samar and Eastern Samar while the 543 Engineer Construction Battalion covers Northern Samar and other parts of Samar. Lt. Col. Cabales said that a very significant project of the 543 Engineer Construction Battalion is the Road Opening at the three hinterland barangays of Lavezares, Northern Samar, from Barangay Salvacion to Chansvilla. This project is in cooperation with the 803rd Infantry Brigade and the different Battalions operating in the area. This project was supposed to start in March but it was derailed a bit due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, Lt. Col Cabales said the Phase 1 is about to be completed. The Road Opening Project will entail the opening of 5.59 kilometers of road which will make the barangays more
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July 16-31 2020
Leyte province makes headway in fight vs. insurgency, says OPAV official By: Gemma T. Tabao TACLOBAN CITY -- The Municipal Task Force - ELCAC of Sta. Rita, Samar deployed Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) Teams to severTACLOBAN CITY -- “We are making headway on the fight against the rebels,” said Assistant Secretary Jonji Gonzales of the Office of the Presidential Assistant for the Visayas, during the Network Briefing News interview with the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar on July 17. According to Gonzales, the number of former rebels in San Isidro, Leyte is increasing and they are among the beneficiaries of the government’s livelihood projects. The increasing number, according to Asec. Gonzales, only shows that the rebels are now serious in returning to the folds of the law. “Right now, the said rebel returnees have started their livelihood projects such as poultry-raisng and egg-selling, which were funded by the Provincial Government of Leyte through Governor Leopoldo Dominico Petilla,” he said.. He added, “These former rebels are now selling eggs. They are producing 3,000 eggs per day from the 1,400 layers, given by the province and other businessmen who are helping them.” Gonzales also said that these people are also into farming.
The Philippine Coconut Authority 8 (PCA-8) has also distributed seeds and seedlings, in coordination with the 802nd Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army, as among their interventions to the government’s anti-insurgency program. To recall, President Rodrigo Duterte visited San Isidro, Leyte in January, this year, where he gave assistance to some 262 rebel returnees of the said municipality, of which the group now has increased its number to 500 individuals. During his visit, the President also gave P5-million worth of check to Governor Petilla, who leads the Leyte Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict or ELCAC. The amount was used for the construction of the halfway house for the said former rebels. (LDL/ GTT/PIA-Leyte)al barangays of the municipality. The RSCP teams composed of Peace, Law Enforcement and Development Support Cluster personnel from the PPO-Samar, 63IB, BFP, BJMP, and LGAs converged for
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SAP distribution for waitlisted in Eastern Visayas kicks off By: Olive P. Tiu TACLOBAN CITY -- As pronounced by DSWD-8 Regional Director Marie Angela Gopalan when interviewed at PIA Panindugan, SAP distribution for the waitlisted in Region 8 has already started. The initial distribution of Emergency Subsidy for the waitlisted in Eastern Visayas was conducted by the employees of the DSWD Regional Office in La Paz, Leyte; Caibiran, Biliran; and in Lawaan, Eastern Samar. Some 214 beneficiaries received the financial assistance: 37 from La Paz, 29 from Caibiran at 148 from Lawaan. A total of P1,070,000 was distributed by DSWD at the initial distribution of the emergency subsidy. The beneficiaries expressed their gratitude for the financial assistance they received. Marilou, a housewife, said, “Simula ng pandemic, nahinto ang aming source of income. Mahirap na ang aming sitwasyon ngayon,
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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
July 16-31 2020
Former rebels in Samar town are now peace builders
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By: Golda Meir T. Tabao TACLOBAN CITY -- The Municipal Task Force - ELCAC of Sta. Rita, Samar is set to send off teams to five barangays for the conduct of Retooled Community Support Program, a convergence mechanism for Local Government Units particularly in the barangay, for the identification of issues and needed government interventions. The Send-off Ceremony for the PNP RCSP Teams will be held on July 13, 2020, at 8 o’clock in the Ranking NPA couple in Samar Island morning at the Municipal Hall for surrenders in San Jose de Buan those who will be deployed in the five By: 87IB, 8ID, PA barangays. SAN JOSE DE BUAN, Samar -- A “We have decided to surren Mayor Joven P. Tiu presided ranking NPA leader in Samar Island der and return to the folds of the law over the MTF-ELCAC meeting on voluntarily surrendered to the 87th to start a new life. We have thre kids July 6, 2020, 1 o’clock in the afternoon Infantry (Hinirang) Battalion under (8, 7, and 5 years old) and we want at Municipal Mayor’s Office to plan Lt. Col. Reynaldo B. Balido Jr. and to give them a brighter future which for the training of its members on the Mayor Joaquin R. Elizalde of this we cannot provide if we still continue RCSP. They also disscussed the RCSP town on Saturday, July 18. to hide in the mountains,” the couple process, procedures and organization About 10 a.m. on Saturday, said. al strucure. NPA leader Silverio Gabane alias Ivy, Lt. Col. Balido welcomed Mayor Tiu said, “We are going who resided in Brgy. Hibacaan, San the couple and assured them that the to support the RCSP and together in this Jose de Buan, Samar, commanding 87IB will help them in their claims journey we will continue to provide the officer of Sub-Regional Operating for assistance from the Enhanced basic services to the people through our Command of Sub-Regional Comprehensive Local Integration “Barangayan” in order to make them Committee “BROWSER” Eastern Program or E-CLIP of the national feel government care and efforts.” Visayas Regional Party Committee government and the Local Social The RCSP is anchored on the (EVRPC), voluntarily surrendered Integration Program (LSIP) of the government framework that intends to with his US M14 rifle with deface Province of Samar. develop people’s capability to organize serial number, 2 magazines and Mayor Elizalde reiterated his themselves and own development by 36 ammunitions to Lt. Col. Balido call on the members of the NPA in bringing about value-chain intervenand Mayor Elizalde at the Battalion San Jose de Buan to come down and tions to uplift their current condition. Headquarters in Poblacion 2 of the lay down their arms. The targeting of barangays said municipality. “I am committed to for RCSP is based on the identifica Gabane’s common law wife, continued on page 12 tion and prioritization of targets set Emely Pomarca Rebato alias Rinby the National Task Force’s Focused Rin, a member of PLTN Codename: Geographical Areas (FGDs). Windell of Samar Provincial Party Some eight (8) threatened baCommittee of EVRPC, also volunrangays in the municipality of Basey are tarily surrendered with her COLT included in the proposed 437 focused caliber .45 pistol having defaced serial areas in Eastern Visayas. (PIA-8) number, one (1) magazine with five (5) ammunitions.
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July 16-31 2020
PRLEC ushers AKKAP project in ELCAC priority barangay in E. Samar By: Ninfa Barcena-Quirante
BORONGAN CITY -- Barangay Pandol in Can-avid, E. Samar is in for another barrage of livelihood projects as the Poverty Reduction Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) pours in more projects for the barangay. In a meeting on July 16, TESDA Provincial Director Antonio Waniwan who also heads the PRLEC, announced that several livelihood projects under the Agrikultura at Kabuhayan tungo sa Kaunlaran at Pangkapayapaan (AKKAP) is due for implementation. These projects include vegetable production and processing, mushroom culture and processing, native chicken meat and egg production, food and non-food processing, establishment of abaca production and processing, production of household quilted items, grains production, participatory
coconut planting project (PCPP) and Bigasan ng Barangay. Earlier, some locals of Barangay Pandol had trainings on dressmaking, food production, and driving. They were then awarded training allowances and starter kits in June. These livelihood projects will be implemented to provide customized livelihood programs to farmer cooperators in the conflict-stricken barangays, increase farm productivity and income of the target beneficiaries and ensure household and community food security. Other objectives of the program include increased resilience of farming activities through modern technology, enhance the development of uncultivated lands and provide capacity building programs among farmer cooperators on entrepreneurship, product packaging and processing. Members of the PRLE Cluster are PSWD, DTI, DAR, DPWH, PCA, DBP, DA, DOLE, DOT, NIA, Land Bank of the Philippines, DOST, BFAR, PNP, PIA and the Philippine Army.
NPA commander, 2 members surrender in Samar
TACLOBAN CITY -- The government scored anew in its mission to end local communist armed conflict in the region as a commander and two members of the NPA surrendered in San Jose de Buan, Samar. Honorio de Asis Dacles @ Uno and Sanny Labong Maestre @ Gortiyo, both members of Militia ng Bayan in Barangay Gusa, San Jose de Buan, surrendered on July 14 while Tito Labong a.k.a. Silverio Gabane @Ivy/Mayor, CO of Sub-Regional Operational Command (SROC) Browser, surrendered on July 15, to the 87th “Hinirang” Infantry Battalion of the 8th Infantry Division. The surrender of the three is a result of the sustained triad and CSP operations in the CAAs and GIDAs in Paranas, Motiong and San Jose de Buan to dismantle the CFS1, SRC Browser. The three surrendered one rifle each, comprising of two M14 rifles and one Cal .30 M1 Garand rifle with several rounds of ammunition and magazines. The surrenderees are now undergoing custodial debriefing and processing for their possible enrollment in the Enhanced Community Livelihood Integration Program continued on page 14 (E-CLIP) and Local Social Integration Program (LSIP). The officers, men and women of 801 Brigade congratulated the 87th “Hinirang” Infantry Battalion under the leadership of Lt. Col. Reynaldo Balido Jr., commanding officer, for the recent successive victories that diminish the strength of the CTGs. “The untiring efforts of 87IB are now paying off. We believe that this is the start when other NPA regulars, as well as BOP/SPL and MB
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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA July 16-31 2020 7 magazine, four (4) live ammunition; 11 Communist-Terrorist Group members one (1) M14 M1 Rifle Japanese Type voluntarily surrender to EV cops Arisaka with SN: 16557, with one (1) By: RPIO, PRO-8
CAMPETIC, Palo, Leyte -- Despite the threat of COVID-19 pandemic in the region, the Eastern Visayas police force spearheaded by Regional Director, PBGen Bernanbe M. Balba, successfully convinced 11 Communist-Terrorist Group (CTG) members to return to the fold of the law and be part of the real change and enjoy peace with their loved ones. Said rebels voluntarily surrendered to the police personnel of the 1st Leyte Provincial Mobile Force Company (1st LPMFC) led by its Force Commander, Lt. Col. Frederick G. Deñal under the direct supervision of PCol Rodelio C. Samson; Basey Municipal Police Station (MPS) in Basey, Samar under the leadership of PCol Andre P. Dizon; and Regional Mobile Force Battalion 8 Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) team led by PLt Stephanie A. Adornado. Surenderees were identified as follows: a.k.a. “Walik,” 26-year-old male, single, farmer and a resident of Purok-Tres, Brgy. Villa Aurora, Basey, Samar; a.k.a. “Eunice,” 32-years-old and a resident of Zone-1, Brgy. Sawa, Basey, Samar; a.k.a. “Erly,” 54-yearold male and a resident of Zone-1 Brgy. Sawa, Basey, Samar; a.k.a. “Sammy,”40-year-old, married and a resident of Brgy. Cansuegra, Leyte, Leyte; a.k.a. “Abit,” 51-year-old, married and a resident of Brgy. Wague, Leyte, Leyte; and a.k.a. “Rene Boy,” 46-years-old, married and a resident of Brgy. Consuegra, Leyte, Leyte. Surrenderees also included a.k.a. “Jomar,” 28-year-old, single and a resident of Sitio Tabigue, Brgy. Wague, Leyte, Leyte; a.k.a “Leo,” 48-year-old, married and a resident of Brgy. San Roque, Marabut, Samar; a.k.a “Edil, Elvie, Eman, Maffy,”
magazine and with four (4) of rounds of ammunition; one (1) Modified 60-year-old and a resident of Brgy. M14 M1 Rifle Japanese Type Arisaka Sto. Nin~o, Sulat, Eastern Samar; a.k.a with SN: 94700, without magazine “Joel,” 53-year-old, married and a and with four (4) rounds of ammuniresident of Brgy. San Roque, Marabut, tion; one (1) M14 M1 Rifle Japanese Samar; and a.k.a. “Dondon, Bornok,” Type Arisaka with SN 63104, with one 32-year-old, married, also a resident of (1) built-in magazine, four (4) rounds Brgy. San Roque, Marabut, Samar. of ammunition; and one (1) caliber 45 Said rebel returnees turnedpistol, USA Taurus SN 600, with one over the following: one (1) unit Elisco (1) magazine and with five (5) rounds M16 Rifle 5.56mm (defaced) with of ammunition. one (1) long magazine, one (1) short The success of persuading magazine with 50 live ammunition; our fellow kababayans, who somehow one (1) unit 45 cal. 45 serial number chose to become members of elud(SN): 574813 with one (1) magazine ing terrorists and are now enjoying and four (4) rounds of ammunition; the freedom and lasting peace with one (1) unit cal. U.S M1 Carbine the government and their families, SN: 120881, with one (1) magazine is through the extensive intelligence with 17 rounds of ammunition; B2.2, and counter propaganda efforts of our one (1) unit 38 revolver pistol with PNP personnel in coordination and three (3) live ammunition; one (1) support of the Armed Forces of the unit Magnum (Smith & Wesson) Philippines. .22 revolver pistol with four (4) live continued on page 16 ammunition; one (1) unit 9mm Luger KG 9 SN: 775217 with one (1) magazine with four (4) live ammunition; B4.2, one (1) unit Ingram M11 cal 9mm SN: GA 0062 USA with one (1) magazine with four (4) live ammunition; one (1) unit 45 cal. pistol Colt 1911 with SN: 1011808, with one (1)
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA PRO-8 efforts on ELCAC PRO-8 turns over 1,145 loose firearms to RCSU 8
July 16-31 2020
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By:PNP-8, RPIO
CAMPETIC, Palo, Leyte -- The Police Regional Office 8 (PRO-8) under the command of Regional Director, PBGen Bernabe M. Balba, continues its operation efforts to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) in the three municipalities of Samar -- Sta. Rita, Basey and Marabut. This is an inter-agency operation of the Philippine National Police in support of the 8th Infantry Division, Philippine Army (8ID, PA) to clear and defeat the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC) of the New People’s Army (NPA). The main goal of this program is to end the nonsensical and violent armed struggle of EVRPC and its support structures, which continuously deprives the residents of the identified barangays the lasting peace and development they so deserve. On July 13, 20 and 22, 2020, PRO deployed its personnel composed of the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) teams to the above-mentioned municipalities through send-off ceremonies attended by Director Balba together with the 8ID PA, DILG-8, BFP-8 and BJMP-8. Also present during said ceremonies were the Governor of Samar, Municipal and Provincial Local Government Operations Officer and the Barangay Captains of the targeted barangays. As of this writing, the RCSP teams are already at the targeted barangays conducting needs assessment to every household to identify their primary and secondary issues which are being exploited by the NPAs. This action of the RCSP will
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By: PRO-8 RPIO CAMP RUPERTO KANGLEON, Campetic, Palo, Leyte-- The Police Regional Office 8 (PRO-8) under the leadership of Regional Director, PBGen Bernabe M. Balba, turned over 1,145 Confiscated, Captured, Surrendered, Deposited, Abandoned and Forfeited (CCSDAF) assorted firearms and ammunitions to the Regional Civil Security Unit 8 (RCSU 8) through its Officer-in-Charge, Police Major Bjon U. Revecho, during the Flag Raising Ceremony on Monday, July 27 at the PRO-8 Grandstand. Based on the data gathered by the RCSU 8, the said loose firearms were collected all over Eastern Visayas -- 427 from the Leyte Police Provincial Office (LPPO); 159 from Biliran Police Provincial Office (BPPO); 149 from Southern Leyte Police Provincial Office (SLPPO); and 142 from Ormoc City Police Office (OCPO). Further, the Northern Samar Police Provincial Office (NSPPO) turned over 100 firearms; 77 from Eastern Samar Police Provincial Office (ESPPO); 51 from Samar Police Provincial Office (SPPO) and 40 from Tacloban City Police Office (TCPO).
Out of 1,145, some 790 are firearms with expired license, 309 are subject for records and 46 were collected from court with case fully adjudicated. The firearms include 515 were pistols; 163 revolvers; 112 shotgun and 46 rifles. Said firearms and ammunitions are now deposited at RCSU 8 as the authorized repository unit for all loose firearms and are subject for ballistics examination. Likewise, RCSU 8 is encouraging gun owners with expired License To Own and Possess Firearm (LTOPF) and unrenewed firearms to renew their license to prevent criminal liability and inconvenience. “This shows our intensified program of Oplam Katok which aims to prevent loose and unlicensed firearms from being used in any criminal activities,” Diretor Balba said. (PRO-8, RPIO)
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
July 16-31 2020
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Leyte’s penal colony inaugurates its eco-tourism resort By: Consuelo Alarcon
New leadership commands PNP Northern Samar By: Ailene N. Diaz CATARMAN, Northern Samar -- Given a short notice, a new PNP Provincial Director was installed on Wednesday morning in a turnover ceremony headed by PNP Regional Director, PBGen Bernabe M. Balba at the Northern Samar Police Provincial Office (NSPPO) MultiPurpose Hall. PBGen. Balba installed PCol. Arnel J. Apud as the newly NSPPO Provincial Director vice PCol. Reynaldo Dela Cruz. “Ang turnover command ay isang tradisyon sa PNP na ating ipinapanatili at ipinagpapatuloy hindi lamang upang pormal na ipabatid and mga pagbabagong nagaganap sa ating organisasyon, bagkus, ito rin ay isang okasyon ng pagkilala sa mga pagsisikap at didikasyon ng ating mga lider na pamunuan ang kanyang nasasakupan na may katapatan at karangalan,” said Director Balba. “Ganun paman, binibigyan din natin ng pagkakataon ang isang lider na lumawak ang kanyang professional career at mapabuti ang kanyang serbisyo sa bayan,” Balba added. Balba expressed a
message of gratitude to the outgoing Provincial Director Col. Reynaldo Dela Cruz for showing laudable efforts by ensuring the peace and security that indeed this province is worth to reckon with. He personally thanked the outgoing provincial director for his exemplary leadership, hardwork and professionalism that inspires the personnel to do their exemplar job that shows significant contribution in peace keeping in the midst of this global health crises. “I also commend our new officer-in-charge of the NSPPO, Col. Arnel Apud, for accepting the challenge of serving the people of Northern Samar. May you continue the programs of Col. Reynaldo Dela Cruz with more vigor and enthusiasm. I wish you good luck, and may God continue to guide you,” PBGen Balba addressing the incoming PNP Provincial Director. “Today marks another milestone in your careers, I wish the best of luck to both of you. You may now be facing a greater challenge in fighting this faceless enemy, but I expect you to give the same level of
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ABUYOG, Leyte -- The Leyte Regional Prison, the biggest correctional facility in Eastern Visayas, will soon showcase to the public its eco-tourism resort inside the compound of the penal facility. This, after the LRP resort was blessed and inaugurated on Thursday, July 30, following a 45-day work. In his short speech, Leyte Regional Prison Head, Chief Sr. Supt. Arturo Sabadisto said that even in times of COVID-19 pandemic, the officers and employees of LRP and the persons deprived of liberty worked together according to their ability and capability to make the project a success despite the lack of machineries and heavy equipment needed for the construction and development of the project. “Each of us has contributed his share to make our dreams come true through the guidance of Director General Gerald Bantag to make every correctional/institution to be a local tourist destination,” Sabadisto said. Through hardwork, patience, perseverance, teamwork and camaraderie among employees of the LRP and the PDL plus their creative minds, talents and skillful hands, a seemingly impossible task was made possible in just three months, Sabadisto added. The forested area which is more than 800 hectares was developed in order
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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
July 16-31 2020
PNP’s ‘Simple Pabahay Project’ benefits 23 indigent families in E.Samar By: Samuel D. Candido BORONGAN CITY -- The Philippine National Police (PNP) Simple Pabahay Project has given shelter to 23 indigent families in Eastern Samar. According to Police Chief Master Sergeant Eduardo C. Sande, chief on police community affairs development (PCAD) Unit, this considered best practice started on May 7, 2020. The project is under the national police project “Kapwa Ko, Sagot Ko” while the province’s counterpart is called Simple Pabahay Project. The first simple housing project took place with the Quinapondan Municipal Police Station under the leadership of Police Lt. Ruben Macawile who adopted an indigent family. The PNP personnel contributed cash for the project including grocery items for the family of Adelaida Alejo, a visually impaired grandmother with one daughter and a grandson from Brgy. San Pedro, Quinapondan, E. Samar. Pol. Col. Carlito D. Abriz, provincial director of Eastern Samar Provincial Police Office (ESPPO), challenged all the MPS in the province to replicate the project in their respective municipalities and to lead in helping indigent families especially in this time of pandemic. As of now, the municipal/ city police stations with the two police mobile forces have turned-over 23
decent houses to 23 indigent families all over the province. “I appreciate the efforts of my men who have made possible simple, yet decent shelter project in their respective municipalities,” Police Col. Abriz said. Last week, the City Police Station of Borongan led by Chief of Police Doughlas Antonio Eloja formally turned over a house to Jovanie Larioque, a farmer in Brgy. Calicoan, Borongan City. Police Sgt. Beda Tiu, one of the CPS personnel revealed that the police officers and men contributed at least P500 to P1,000 for the materials and labor to build the house. This effort is in line with the PNP’s aim at helping the community, most especially the most needy families amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. (nbq/SDC/PIA-E. Samar)
PNP-N. Samar inaugurates new custodial facility By: Ailene N. Diaz CATARMAN, Northern Samar -- Timely with the sending off of the Northern Samar PNP Provincial Director, Col. Reynaldo
Dela Cruz, was the inauguration of the new custodial facility, one of his legacies while serving as Provincial Director of the Northern Samar Police Provincial Office (NSPPO). During the blessing and inauguration of the building and the turnover of command ceremony on July 29, 2020, PBGen Bernabe Balba, regional director of Police Regional Office 8, said the custodial facility will serve as a place for retribution and rehabilitation of the people who committed crimes against the society. “It is our way to deprive the person’s freedom and to remove them from the society so that they can no longer harm more innocent people.” Balba explained. Speaking before the guests, Balba made clear that despite that kind of deprival, they ensure that the absolute rights of those who committed crimes are protected under our Philippine Constitution, hence the construction of this custodial facility. “This is our desire to show our respect and care for them for they deserve justice and fairness.” Balba said. According to Dela Cruz, the facility is built with two cells
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Northern Samar readies 400 modular tents for arriving LSIs By: Teresita B. Cardenas CATARMAN, Northern Samar -- The Provincial Government of Northern Samar readied 400 modular tents at the temporary quarantine facility for the returning Locally Stranded Individuals (LSIs) in the province. According to Provincial Hatid Tulong rolls off to Eastern Visayas on July 26 Information Officer Jhon Allen Berbon, some 60 modular tents are By: Olive P. Tiu being set up at the University of TACLOBAN CITY -- Eastern Visayas leaving Manila and upon reaching their Eastern Philippines Gymnatorium is now preparing to welcome some 776 destination, DSWD will give them fami- to accommodate hundreds of LSIs Locally Stranded Individuals (LSIs) ly food packs, while BFAR will provide coming from Manila and those from Manila who will take off for their meals upon arrival. who availed of the Hatid Tulong Region 8 via government hired pub For those who are returning to Program of the government. lic utility buses, on July 26, under the Region8, there will be several drop off He said local government National Government’s Hatid Tulong points: Government Center, Palo, Leyte units reported that their isolation Program, a whole-of-government for those going to Ormoc City, Baybay facilities are now full and requested approach assisting LSIs by providing City and Leyte; DZR Airport, Brgy. the provincial government to assist them transportation going back to their San Jose, Tacloban City for Tacloban them until they can provide space provinces. City; Area Near Provincial Engineering for the arriving individuals. PMS Director Evelyn Clarin Office, Brgy. Payao, Catbalogan City, Modular tents are tempoduring the joint meeting of the Eastern Samar for Samar; Taft Border Control, rarily set up to ensure arriving LSIs Visayas Regional Inter-Agency Task Brgy. Nato, Taft, Eastern Samar for have a place to sleep over as isolaForce on Emerging Infectious Diseases Eastern Samar; Operation Center tion facilities are full, the provincial and the Regional Task Force on Holding Area, Outside Allen Port for information officer said. COVID-19, said that this number may Northern Samar; Panan-awan Airport, The provision of the modustill change as the registration is up to Maasin City for Maasin City, Macrohon, lar tents is a welcome development July 25. Padre Burgos, Malitbog, Limasawa, and of the provincial government’s Aside from those who will Tomas Oppus. response due to the COVID-19 come home to Region 8, some 2,000 Those who are availing of pandemic. individuals are also scheduled to pass the program must have a Letter of As of this writing, the provthrough Region 8 in going home to Acceptance from receiving LGU; ince recorded 8,142 returning LSIs, Mindanao. Negative Rapid Antibody Test Result, 2,458 are quarantined at the com The Grand Hatid Tulong Medical Certificate and Travel munity isolation facilities, 34 at the Send Off will take place on July 25-26 Authority. provincial quarantine facility, 330 continued on page 14 under strict home isolation, while at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex at Adriatico, Manila. It is Project of the 5,233 individuals were cleared and Office of the President with Executive given medical certificate that they Secretary Salvador Medialdia Executive have undergone the 14-day mandaDirector assisted by PMS Asst. Secretary tory quarantine. Joseph ‘Joy’ Encabo as lead conveyor. Meanwhile, the Returning Clarin said the LSIs will be Overseas Filipinos (ROFs) reached given by the DSWD, P2,000 each before
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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA “PRO-8 efforts...” continued Borongan City Mayor welcomes LSIs 12
July 16-31 2020
By: Ninfa Barcena-Quirante
BORONGAN CITY -- Borongan City Mayor Jose Ivan Dayan Agda welcomes his fellow Boronganons stranded in Manila and other places. Some 17 Boronganons branded as Locally Stranded Individuals (LSIs) have been dispatched by the Presidential Management Staff (PMS) from Metro Manila on July 26, 2020. “We have no objection for those returning residents with or without documents,” Agda said during a presscon on Monday. In a previous presscon, the mayor then appealed to Boronganons meaning to come home to just endure, delay their homecoming to avoid being affected in transit by the dreaded virus. Agda had a change of heart. When asked why, he replied that he can relate to the difficulties his kababayans experience in the metropolis especially that most of them have lost their jobs. “Makuri it ira kabutangan didto, napaid ak,” (I can feel their hardship) he replied. For some Boronganons who have gone home earlier, the city hired them to maintain the city streets, the mayor said. Agda said that there is enough space in the quarantine and isolation
facilities in the city. He is just appealing that these people coordinate with their families in Borongan City who in turn will report to the City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Officer, Jaime Voces. As to food, the local chief executive said that there is enough food. He added that employees of the city hall themselves prepare the food of those under quarantine. They have saved through this, saving from catering services. He added that the food supplied contain vegetables sourced out from local farmers who produced vegetables while staying at home earlier. Since last week, the city has been providing shelter and food to 294 Boronganons in the city quarantine and isolation facilities. To date, Borongan City remains COVID-19-free. (nbq/PIA E. Samar)
“Ranking NPA.” continued from page 5
personally provide Php50,000 as immediate cash assistance to every fighter who will surrender with his/ her high-powered firearm,” said the Mayor, who showed his firm resolve to end insurgency in his municipality. (87IB, 8ID, PA)
from page 8
make them as the community’s bridge to the concerned government agencies in addressing their issues. With these efforts, there are already 11 recorded NPAs who surrendered along with their firearms. This approach has really a great impact on conveying to our armed-brothers on the uplands to submit themselves to the authorities and return back to the fold of the government. As this program is ongoing, PRO-8 is expecting more rebels to surrender and more firearms to be seized. “With our intensive campaign against terrorism and insurgency, we are hoping for a massive surrender of our armed brothers and convey them to return to the fold of the government. We are also expecting that upon their surrender, more loose firearms will be seized,” says Director Balba. (PRO-8, RPIO)
“NPA commander..” continued from page 6 members will also return to the folds of the law,” Col. Camilo Z. Ligayo, commanding officer of 801st Brigade said. “With the unwavering commitment of the troops and the active support of local government units and the entire government bureaucracy, the TF ELCAC mission to liberate the region against the threat of communist terrorism will be successful despite the current national crisis,” MGen. Pio Dinoso, commander of the 8ID and chair of the RTF8-ELCAC said. (PIA-8)
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“DTI’s PBG...” continued from involve the livelihood component of the CEST program to uplift the page 1
“SAP distribution..” continued from page 2
Samar, 34 FRs will receive sari-sari store kits. The FRs are from 11 LGUs namely, Balangkayan, Borongan, Can-Avid, Dolores, Giporlos, Guiuan, Oras, Jipapad, Oras, Quinapondan and Arteche. For Northern Samar, some 35 FRs will receive 20 sari-sari store packages and 15 food processing packages. They are from the municipalities of Catarman, San Isidro, Catubig, Gamay, Laoang, Mapanas, Palapag and Victoria. Director Bato said, the livelihood kits will hopefully be distributed in the 3rd quarter of 2020 as the process of procurement is now ongoing. The total funding of this program is P7,164,000. This will cover 140 LGUs, some 30 LGUs of which are ELCAC LGUs. (PIA-8)
nawalan ng trabaho ang asawa ko at wala kaming mapagkunan ng kita. Kaya ang laki ng pasasalamat ko dahil naka-avail ako ng SAP. Salamat dahil may ganito kayong programa para sa mga tulad sa amin na naapektuhan ng pandemic. Gagamitin ko ang pera pambili ng gatas ng anak ko, bigas, vitamins, groceries namin, at para sa pangaraw-araw naming gastos.” DSWD will distribute emergency subsidy for the waitlisted families. These are the families who are eligible but did not receive emergency subsidy in the first tranche. For now, DSWD already has a schedule for distribution in several municipalities in the region and is expected to make the distribution soon. Director Gopalan said, “We will write the Mayors so we can start the distribution in the municipalities.” (PIA-8)
“CEST is DOST’s..” continued from page 2 the livelihood project is on-going. The DOST Region VIII thru the PSTC-Biliran is implementing the Malnutrition Reduction Program covering 82 malnourished children from the Municipality of Naval. In Las Navas, Northern Samar, CEST project has already undergone Community Life Competence Process (CLCP) of which participants were coming from the community itself. The projects will involve the 5 components of the program. The PSTC Northern Samar along with TESDA Provincial office went to San Miguel, Las Navas to identify interventions which can be included for the CEST Project charged against the RGIA of DOST VIII. The CEST- Based intervention for the Indigenous People (IP) of Caucab, Almeria Biliran will
living conditions of the indigenous people in the area. DOST VIII will also assist in the shelf life testing of the “binato” banana chips of Brgy. Gimbanga, Calbiga, Samar, including product improvement which will be linked to the joint project of DOST VIII and EVSU Tacloban Campus which is the Food Innovation Center. DOST VIII likewise make its technologies open for transfer through trainings and consultancy. DOST VIII through PSTC N-Samar submitted a proposal to OUSEC-ROS entitled Establishment of Iron Fortified Rice project in Laoang, Northern Samar to address Anemia incidence in the province, a project amounting to Php 6,000,000 charged against OSEC-GIA. The PSTC-Leyte in coordination with PLGU-Leyte awarded a project entitled “Development of Brgy. Villa Aurora, Burauen, Leyte Technology Center as a CEST Community under Innovation Science and Technology for Accelerating Regional Technology-based Development Program (iSTART)” amounting to Php 500,000. (PIA-8)
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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA The Tactical Operations Group 8 of the Philippine Air Force provided personnel to assist in the arrival of 116 repatriated OFWs from Manila returning to Eastern Visayas via Philippine Airline at DZR Airport on July 27, 2020 at 11:02 p.m.
“Army engineer..” continued from page 3 accessible for help from other agencies and more opportunities for the residents to market their farm produce, thus solving the root-cause of insurgency in the area. Cabales said the project has become a Bayanihan because even Lavezares Mayor Edito Saludaga has allowed the use of the equipment of the municipality to fast-track the completion of the project. The Army’s Engineer Construction Battalion usually implement projects in areas not accepted by private contractors. Cabales said that the Army’s engineer construction battalion is open to partnerships with Local Government Units. In fact, the 543 Engineer Brigade has just conducted a ceremonial signing with the Local Government of San Isidro, Northern Samar for the construction of a stage and the ground levelling of the church. Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Ricnon Carolasan disclosed that in support to ELCAC, the 546 Engineer Construction Battalion, in coordination with the 14th Infantry
“PRLEC ushers..” continued from page 6
AKKAP is a five-year development project which will run from July 2020-July 2025, according to Waniwan. The said projects involved the local residents of Brgy Pandol after the immersion of some members under the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) of the Provincial Task Force-End Local Communist Armed Conflict (TF-ELCAC). The other two barangays which will also receive the same government interventions are Boco and Balagon in Can-avid town. TF-ELCAC coordinates with Battalion, has just completed the agencies in the formulation of develback-filling and repair of one unit opment plans in conflict areas, develop two classrooms building at the peace contingency plans and cascade Hilusin National High School in programs and projects to identified conMahaplag, Leyte. flict-areas to veer them away from their Now ongoing is the underengagement with the local commutaking by the Engineer Construction Brigade of the construction of the pro- nists. (nbq/PIA E. Samar) posed infirmary in Mahaplag, Leyte. “Hatid Tulong rolls...” In coordination with the 93rd continued from page 11 Infantry Battalion, it has upcoming Each beneficiary must limit projects which are the desilting of the baggage to 20 kg. No backloading will Cabuynan-Sacme creek in Tanauan, be allowed. The Drop and Load scheme Leyte and the desilting and de-clogwill be used. ging of the spillway and river system The Manifests will be provided in Carigara. by PMS Central to DILG Central. Both Moreover, it has an ongoing agencies to cascade to their respective project, the construction of Peace regional offices. There will be no LSIs House for Former Rebels at 8th for Biliran as the LGU requested for a Infantry Division at Camp Lucban moratorium until July 31. and House of Rebels at 802nd Meanwhile, the province Brigade at Camp Integrated Farming of Eastern Samar requested for the Facilities. suspension of the return of the LSIs He said most of their projciting the absorptive capacity of LGUs ects are funded by the LGUs. The Engineer provides equipment and the temporary treatment and quarantine facilities. (PIA-8) LGU provides full fuel. The two commanding officers of the two Engineer Construction Battalions committed their unwavering support for achieving peace and development in the area. (PIA-8)
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“Leyte province..” continued from page 4 the Send-Off Ceremony at the Sta Rita Municipal Gym on June 13, 2020. The teams deployed to the different barangays will identify the primary and secondary issues that will be addressed by the LGUs and LGAs to bring the government closer to the people. It was graced with the presence of Hon. Governor Reynolds Michael Tan of Samar, Dir. Karl Caezar Rimando of DILG8, PBGen Bernabe Balba, RD of PRO8 and MGen Pio Q. Diñoso III, commander of 8ID. In his message, Mayor Joven P. Tiu committed the LGU’s full support for the program and the giving of 100 percent effort to end the insurgency in the area. Governor Reynolds Michael Tan expressed his appreciation to the initiative of the Municipality in supporting the EO 70 and the PTFELCAC of Samar. RCSP is a convergence mechanism for Local Government Units particularly in the barangay, for the identification of issues and needed government interventions. The RCSP is anchored on the government framework that intends to develop people’s capability to organize themselves and own development by bringing about value-chain interventions to uplift their current condition. The targeting of barangays for RCSP is based on the identification and prioritization of targets set by the National Task Force’s Focused Geographical Areas (FGDs). Some eight (8) threatened barangays in the municipality of Sta. Rita are included in the proposed 437 focused areas in Eastern Visayas. (PIA-8 with 63IB)
Borongan City to construct new Evacuation Center By: Samuel D. Candido
BORONGAN CITY -- The City Government of Borongan will buy a parcel of land where a new Evacuation Center will rise, said Borongan City Mayor Jose Ivan Dayan Agda in a presscon on July 27. Agda added that the parcel of land is adjacent to the City Hall and at the same time at the heart of the city. Mayor Agda said the land measures 595 square meters, which was owned by the Religious of Virgin Mary (RVM), the extension building of formerly St. Joseph’s College now St. Mary’s College located along the national highway. The RVM Sisters and the LGUBorongan have agreed to sell/buy the 5.9 square meters parcel of land for P5.5-M. He disclosed that he plans to build a five-storey building wherein the 5th floor will be an Evacuation Center and the first two floors to be the city’s parking lot. As to the City Plaza, Agda said that based on their consultation meeting with Bishop Crispin B. Varquez, they agreed not to put-up concrete infrastructure building, instead
the Bishop suggested that the city plaza will be surrounded with to eventually provide the downtown of Borongan a sort of a breather. “That is a good suggestion of our Bishop, we lack open spaces in our downtown areas,” Mayor Agda said. The city gvernment also plans to make use of a one hectare lot, somewhere in Brgy. Sabang which was
continued on page 22 “Northern Samar readies...” continued from page 11 183, of which 39 are on quarantine at the community isolation facilities, 12 under strict home isolation, 3 at the provincial quarantine facility, while 129 were already cleared. (NBQ/TBC/PIA Northern Samar)
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“New leadership...” continued from page 9 competence and enthusiasm in addressing our concerns on insurgency, crimes, illegal drugs and other forms of lawlessness. Please continue your attitude towards work, towards service, because Eastern Visayas truly deserves leaders like you.” PBGen Balba’s appeal to the two leaders. Balba also expressed his assurance to Governor Edwin Marino Ongchuan, that the police force will always be of service and will continue to support the governor’s advocacies and commitment in keeping the province of Northern Samar, a progressive, safe and secure place to live and do business, adding that the PNP will not falter in fighting all the atrocities. Governor Edwin Ongchuan, for his part, expressed gratitude to the outgoing Provincial Director for being an excellent PD of NSPPO, and well-loved of Nortehanon. “We really need to emulate his brand of leadership as we enter in these challenging times, especially as we face this pandemic, as we continue to implement the ELCAC of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte.” Ongchuan said. Dela Cruz, he said, has hurdled the pressures of the command very well. In the process, he has forged an even stronger bond of unity and capability in the ranks of the police officers. Under Col. Dela Cruz leadership, Governor Ongchuan, mentioned the failure of NPA to overrun the Victoria police station and that is one of the best legacies he will leave in the province, an imprint which can never be erased in history. Speaking before guests and PNP ranks and file employees, the newly installed Provincial Director
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA PCol Arnel J. Apud on his assumption speech expressed his gratitude to the leadership of PNP and the Provincial Government for bestowing him the trust and confidence to lead the Northern Samar Police Provincial Office. With the guidance of God and with the help and support of all personnel and stakeholders everything will go smoothly, he said. He assured that the existing programs of PNP will be sustained so that the vision of the province for a vibrant, cohesive and peaceful place will be achieved. Lastly, he appealed for all to work hand in hand for a peaceful and progressive Northern Samar. (nbq/ ADiaz/PIA-N. Samar)
The Tactical Operations Group 8 of the Philippine Air Force facilitated the offloading of 30 boxes assorted medical supplies (660 lbs) intended for Eastern Visayas Regional Medical Center (EVRMC) via PAF C-295 #140 from Manila to DZR Airport, Tacloban City on 16 July 2020.
“11 communist..” continued from page 7
It is also through dedication, hard work and love for our country that made this remarkably successful. “This is a defining moment for all of us as we just recently launched the Retooled Community Support Program (RCSP) in the Province of Samar that is designed to become an important component in our fight against insurgency. Just a week after its launching, significant accomplishment has been marked that connotes a positive impact to the community in attaining peace and development. I am very much delighted and positive enough that this prolonged adversity will now be addressed,” PBGen Balba said. The surrenderees are now in the custody of the government for safekeeping and debriefing, documentation and proper disposition. They will be endorsed to avail of the government’s assistance program for returnees, the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP). (PRO-8, RPIO)
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were able to give some 2,000 seedlings and other quality planting materials to 500 rebel returnees,” he Financial and educationsaid. al packages were likewise given to The Director also discussed Indigenous Peoples in Samar Island. other PCA’s interventions for the The RTF8-ELCAC continues coconut farmers, such as the survivto meet virtually or in person resulting al and food on the table strategies. in a more active convergence among This according to him, involves the the members, Colasito added. (PIA-8) inter-cropping or crop re-classifica“PCA-8 offers...” continued tion program with several options. from page 2 One option is giving the farmers seeds of pinakbet vegetadisaster, with on-going recovery, bles like eggplant, okra and patola, though. together with fertilizers and an Pilapil also bared that PCA’s proincentive of P2,000 per hectare. grams implemented in this time Another option is the of pandemic, are the same priority planting of root crops and banana. programs offered for Agrarian For banana, farmers are allowed Reform Communities (ARCs) and rebel returnees, as their intervention to plant 200 suckers per hectare at P25 per sucker planted. For cassava, for Task Force ELCAC. they can plant up to 8,000 cuttings “In San Isidro, Leyte, we with P5,000 incentive. On the other hand, 16,4000 cuttings of camote or sweet patato are allowed per hectare with P5,000 incentive. Backyard gardening of smaller hectare or clustering of maximum of three land ownerships can also enroll in this incentivized The Tactical program, according to Director Operations Pilapil. He added, however, that Group each farmer is only allowed to enroll 8 of the in one program so as to provide a Philippine wider scope of implementation. Air Force assisted the Pilapil further informed arrival of 41 that the office also offers fertilizarepatriated tion of unhealthy coconut plants OFWs from where farmers are given fertilizers Manila and P2,000 incentive per 1 hectare returning to Region 8 of coconut plantation. This is called via Air Asia coconut rejuvenation. at 11:27 Meanwhile, in line with the p.m. of July Nutrition Month celebration, PCA 31 at DZR Regional Director Manuel Pilapil Airport, Tacloban joined PIA Director Olive Tiu in City. cooking the “Hinatukang Pinakbet” (Pinakbet with coconut milk) during the “Kusina ha PIA” segment of the Suruswerte program. (LDL/ GTT/PIA-Leyte)
“E-CLIP benefits...” continued measures against COVID-19 and on from page 1 crime prevention. and firearms remuneration. For Eastern Samar, P170,000 was downloaded for one (1) former NPA and two (2) Militia ng Bayan. The amount included immediate assistance of P15,000 each, livelihood assistance at P50,000 each and reintegration assistance at P21,000 per FR, and firearms remuneration. For the Province of Samar, the total amount downloaded was P856.4 Thousand to cover the benefits of 6 former NPA members, and 9 members of Militia ng Bayan. This covered the immediate assistance, livelihood assistance, reintegration assistance and firearms remuneration. Colasito said that the COVID pandemic failed to dampen RTF8ELCAC’s resolve to bring basic services to the most vulnerable. The Provincial Task ForceELCAC of Leyte distributed food packs on June 24 to some 530 families of former rebels at the new resettlement site in San Isidro, Leyte. The activity included a dialogue on safety
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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA Biliran guv aims for higher production in palay, corn and fish 18
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By:Rodrigo S. Victoria NAVAL, Biliran -- The food security provincial government also aimed to and development plan of the Province increase to 2.5 metric tons per harvest of Biliran recently formulated by the per cropping from 1.2 metric tons per eight municipal agricultural officers harvest per cropping at present. in coordination with the provincial “Pagdating naman po sa agricultural office, targeted bigger fisheries, sa totoo lang po mayaman production of palay, corn and fish. ang probinsya ng Biliran sapagkat This was disclosed by kami po ay napapaligiran ng dagat, Governor Rogelio J. Espina of Biliran subalit kulang po kami sa fish port,” during the Laging Handa Network Governor Espina said. Briefing hosted by PCOO Secretary `Governor Espina also asked Martin Andanar on Friday, July 24. for the establishment of fish ports Governor Espina said his in the municipalities of Kawayan, administration is now targeting to Cabucgayan and Caibiran to pool increase palay production to 7 metric the fish catches coming from the tons per harvest per cropping from fishermen of the province as a way of 4.8 metric tons per harvest per cropensuring food security in terms of fish ping at present. consumption rather than fishermen Espina said the low palay sell it individually which caused the production is mainly due to problem spike in the prices of fish in the marin irrigation system that was damaged ket. (ldl/rsv/PIA-Biliran) by Typhoon Urduja in 2017 where ‘COVEGE-20,’ San Roque some 1,205 hectares of rice land SK’s share in time of were affected. He also hoped this will be given attention with the request pandemic already submitted to the Office of the By:Ailene N. Diaz President. “With the good irrigation sys- CATARMAN, Northern Samar -- Amid the COVID-19 pandemtem before, the province was able to harvest palay at 58,000 metric tons per ic, the Pambayang Pederasyon ng mga Sangguniang Kabataan of harvest per year compared to 43,000 San Roque, Northern Samar with metric tons per harvest per year at the support of the town’s Chief present due to damage in irrigation Executive, Mayor Don L. Avalon, brought by Typhoon Urduja,” he added. “Kaya po naming abutin ulit yan kung mapapagawa po ang mga irigasyon. Kailangan din po ng tubig dahil po para sa napakaraming pwedeng itanim ng mga Biliranon, maliban sa mais kailangan din po ng para sa gulayan, inland fishponds para sa tilapia, napakaimportante po na maibalik ang nasirang mga irigasyon po sa amin,” said Governor Espina. The province was recognized before for its rice surplus production. As to corn production, the
has initiated a project called COVEGE-20. This was discussed by SK Federation President Nestle Lagrimas of San Roque in an interview with PCOO Secretary Martin Andanar during the Laging Handa Network Briefing on Friday. “COVEGE-20 is a combination of COVID, the problem we are facing at hand and VEGETABLE being believed to be the solution during this pandemic, while 20 represents the year the project was launched,” Lagrimas said. Lagrimas said they were able to inspire around 100 youths who participated in the home garden contest by planting vegetables in their backyard particularly pechay, eggplant and ampalaya. The project is also aimed at getting the attention of the people in the community to join and do something different yet beneficial not only to the youth but to their respective families as well. Lagrimas added that this project is simply a Sangguniang Kabataan
continued on page 19
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PLGU S. Leyte adopts new Filipino gesture of goodwill, no more to handshake By: Erna S. Gorne MAASIN CITY -- The provincial government of Southern Leyte now adopts a new Pilipino gesture of goodwill, praise and respect instead of the traditional handshake amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Provincial Governor Damian Mercado recently urged the municipal and city local government units to observe the new normal greetings and quoted HR No. 408 authored by Rep. Bayani Fernando that promotes the simple act of gracefully laying the palm of the right hand over the center of the chest with a simultaneous slight head nod as a customary Filipino gesture of goodwill, praise and respect. Mercado even started to act on it during the awarding ceremony for the frontliners of the province during the 60th founding anniversary celebration this month, however, he reacted that he would be comfortable to see eye to eye instead of nodding
the head. He noted the risks of the traditional gesture of handshake which exposes the transmission of communicable diseases, particularly endangering one’s health in the midst of COVID-19 pandemic. Meanwhile, as the City of Maasin Sangguniang Panglungsod moved to adopt the new Filipino gesture of goodwill and praise, they also urged all its barangays to observe the same in a resolution approved unanimously. They underscored that the new act of gracefully laying the palm of the right hand over the center of the chest is a better alternative to the traditional handshake through Resolution Number 440 passed during its 56th session held last July 14, 2020 at Sangguniang Panglungsod Session Hall in Maasin City. (ldl/esg/ PIA SoLeyte)
Province’s tourism sites reopen for Biliranons, says Gov. Espina By:Rodrigo S. Victoria
NAVAL, Biliran -- Governor Rogelio J. Espina of Biliran has
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officially announced the reopening of tourism sites of the province for the Biliranons during his guesting at the Laging Handa Network Briefing hosted by PCOO Secretary Ruperto Martin M. Andanar on Friday, July 24. “Binubuksan na po ang tourism sites sa amin para lang po sa mga taga-Biliran. Hindi pa po pwedeng tumanggap ng taga-labas o taga-ibang bansa dahil po sa sitwasyon ng pandemya sa ating bansa,” Governor Espina clarified. Espina said tourism sites are now allowed to accept local tourists, particularly Biliranons, on a 50 percent capacity depending on the approval of the local chief executives in their respective municipalities. Espina added that tourism sites must be certified by the Department of Tourism. Accepting of tourists from nearby provinces will depend on the COVID-19 situation in the region, he said. “Hopefully po by next month, depende po sa resulta ng pandemya dito po sa Region 8, I hope na walang pong surge ng mga positive na COVID individuals in Region 8. Gustong-gusto na rin namin na mapasyalan ng taga ibang probinsya ang magagandang lugar po dito sa probinsya ng Biliran,” Espina said. (ldl/rsv/ PIA-Biliran)
“COVEGE-20.” continued from page 18
support to the national and local government’s food security efforts. A monthly monitoring by the evaluation and monitoring team composed of SK and youth volunteers in every barangay, in close coordination with the Municipal Agriculture Office, is in place to ensure the sustainability of the project. (ldl/ADiaz/PIA-N. Samar)
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA COVID-19 affected per- Gov. Ben Evardone leads distribution of incenson in quarantine, isotives to 25 farmer-partner technicians
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July 16-31 2020
lation facility can avail of benefit package, says PhilHealth official By: Rodrigo S. Victoria
NAVAL, Biliran -- “COVID-19 affected person, whether suspect, probable or confirmed, in isolation or quarantine facilities can avail of the P22,449 benefit package,” said Ma. Eva E. Aguilon, head of the Philippine Health Insurance (PhilHealth) - Naval Local Health Insurance Office. Aguilon relayed the good news to Biliran Governor Rogelio J. Espina, municipal mayors and task force members attending the Biliran Provincial COVID-19 Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) meeting Tuesday, July 21 at the Fragoch Function Room, this town. The PhilHealth official urged the local chief executives in the Province of Biliran to have their isolation and quarantine facilities be certified by DOH and be accredited by PhilHealth before said benefit package can be availed of. Aguilon made the call for accreditation of quarantine or isolation facilities termed by PhilHealth as community isolation units (CIUs) of LGUs in the province after learning that none of the LGUs in the province have a DOH-certified and PhilHealth-accredited at present. “This is a big help to LGUs in this time of the COVID-19 pandemic,” Aguilon added as the benefit package is per person, and that is
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By: Samuel D. Candido
BORONGAN CITY -- Gov. Ben P. Evardone of Eastern Samar led the distribution of incentives worth P15,000 each to 25 farmer-partner technicians on July 13, 2020 at the 2nd floor, Provincial Capitol, Barangay Alang-alang, Borongan City. This is under the Enhancing Food Production and Livelihood Interventions (EFPLI) project on rice production component of the Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD). According to Ms. Gina P. Suasba, EFPLI/SAAD provincial team leader, the 25 farmer-partner technicians received their incentives at P3,000 per month for five months. She said that farmer-partner technicians do monitoring, training, and demonstrations to fellow farmers in their respective municipalities. Mr. Virgilio Capon, provincial agriculturist, Office of the Provincial Agricultural Service (OPAS) of the Department of Agriculture (DA) thanked the 25 farmer-partner technicians as they
were trained to teach modern farming technology to fellow farmers. “Our provincial government through the leadership of Gov. Evardone has one direction to focus on rice production in order to have ‘Bastante nga Pagkaon ha Este’ (BPE).” In his message during this program, Governor Evardone thanked also the 25 farmer-partner technicians for their services as he underscored the importance of rice production for a rice-sufficient province. With the distribution of free certified seeds and fertilizers, the farmer-partner technicians will be busier as they will assist the provincial agriculturist in monitoring the proper way of utilizing the free farm inputs given by the provincial and national governments. Present during the distribution were the OIC-Provincial Agriculturist, Mr. Virgilio Capon, Mrs. Antonia B. Macawile, OICProvincial Treasurer, and SAAD Provincial Coordinator, Mr. Antonio B. Luceres Jr.
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AN REHIYON OCHO YANA
DPWH-8 completes 3 COVID-19 quarantine facilities in E. Visayas By: Consuelo B. Alarcon PALO, Leyte -- As part of the government’s response due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of Public Works and Highways 8 (DPWH-8) has already completed three COVID19 quarantine facility projects in Eastern Visayas. As of July 27, 2020 status report released by DPWH-8, the three completed projects are the evacuation center in Brgy. Abucay Tacloban City, a multi-purpose building in Brgy. Songco, Borongan City and a DRRM headquarters in Calbayog City, Samar. All three were converted to COVID-19 quarantine facilities. The evacuation center has an estimated amount of Php2,552,000 and has 21 beds while the multi- purpose building in Eastern Samar has a total of 29 bed capacity and with estimated amount of Php2 million. The report also stated that it has already completed the installation of cubicles, ceiling joists, ceiling for the ward rooms, double wall as well as the construction of the comfort rooms for patients, comfort rooms for health workers, carpentry works on the nursing station area, electrical works and plumbing works. The third quarantine facility project has a total amount of Php3.5-M with 32 bed capacity.
The completion rate of 16 COVID-19 quarantine facilities located in various provinces in the region is now at 76.67 percent. The government has allotted Php139, 220,000 for 16 quarantine facility projects with 801 beds. All projects are expected to be completed by August 30, 2020. (ldl/cba/PIA8)
North Samar town’s SK Fed prexy calls on fellow youths to follow health protocols By: Teresita B. Cardenas CATARMAN, Northern Samar -- The SK Federation President of San Roque, Northern Samar Nestle Lagrimas called on youth in the province to follow health safety protocols now that the world is facing the COVID global pandemic. This she said during the Laging Handa Network Briefing hosted by PCOO Secretary Martin Andanar on July 25.
July 16-31 2020 21 Lagrimas encouraged the youth to strictly follow the guidelines and orders implemented by the Local Inter-Agency Task Force and to stay home at all times. Staying at home protect yourself from catching the virus, the fewer people you meet around, the lower your chance of infection and when you stay home, you help stop the spread to others, she said. Meanwhile, the SK Federation President informed that SK effort is focused on the launching of the COVEGE 20 project, which will showcase the vegetable gardening. The COVEGE 20 project initiated by the Sanguniang Kabataan is a useful way to divert the youth’s attention of growing their own vegetable plants such as pechay, eggplant, and ampalaya. The project is in support of the food security program aims to provide a steady local source of affordable vegetable in the province. Lagrimas is grateful of the all-out support of Mayor Don Avalon and the Municipal Agriculture Office for the realization of the project. (nbq/TBC/PIA Northern Samar)
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July 16-31 2020
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PLGU E. Samar starts distribution of Vitamin-C to senior citizens By: Reden D. Tangara BORONGAN CITY -- The provinbless you more), said Lydia Doroquea, cial government of Eastern Samar 63, of Jipapad. through Governor Ben P. Evardone The said assistance is one started the distribution of one month of Gov. Evardone’s initiatives to supply of Vitamin C to senior citizens health and wellness program for the of the province on Friday, July 17. Estehanons especially for the vulnera The provincial government ble people such as the senior citizens. purchased 330,000 tablets and distrib- This is also one of his initiauted them to the senior citizens in the tives in fighting COVID-19. towns of Arteche, Jipapad, Dolores, It has been noted that Eastern and Sulat. Samar has no reported active cases More than 7,000 senior of COVID-19 at the moment as the citizens received 30 tablets of vitamin patients from Salcedo and Guiuan C in the said municipalities of the tested negative of the virus after their province. medication at EVRMC. Aurora Mejica, 63, from “Gov. Evardone is doing Arteche town said, “Damo nga his best to protect the people of the salamat nga gintagan kami hin province from COVID-19 with his Ascorbic Acid para magmakusog an Health and Wellness program for the resistensya ngan umato han COVID- Estehanons,” said one senior citizen, 19.” (Thank you for giving us Ascorbic Milagros Amosco, 64, of Brgy. San Acid to boost our immune system Isidro, San Julian, E. Samar. (nbq/rdt/ and fight against COVID-19). PIA E. Samar) “Dako it akon pagpasalamat “Gov. Ben Evardone’” mahitungod hini nga vitamin-C nga continued from page 20 libre,” (I am so thankful for this free Vitamin-C), Amado Olegario of The said distribution of Dolores said. incentives is a program of DA under “Salamat han im gugma, the SAAD project with the provinan Diyos nala an maghahatag hin cial government of Eastern Samar maupay nga mga hingaradtuan,” though DA-OPAS for livelihood. (Thank you for your love, may God (nbq/SDC/PIA-E. Samar)
“PNP-N. Samar.” continued from page 10 for male and female which can accommodate a maximum of 10 persons complete with beds and comfort rooms. The two-storey building was constructed from the seed fund given by the provincial government thru Governor Edwin Ongchuan and donations from the Northern Samar Contrators Association. (NSCA) “This is one of my goals since the time I set foot in this ground, the PNP-NSPPO compound. My intention is purely to ensure comfortable detention cells to persons deprived of liberty and foremost, to keep safe the captured rebels from any rescue attempt from the members of terrorist group,” said Dela Cruz. (ADiaz/ PIA-N. Samar)
“Borongan City to contruct.” continued from page 15
given by a generous donor in the person of Mr. Ron Ron Reago. “We will construct a city stadium with an Olympic-size swimming pool.” The said stadium and swimming pool is an additional recreation facility and can be used in the near future when the city hosts the Eastern Visayas Regional Athletic Association (EVRAA) and State and Colleges University Athletic Association (SCUAA). (nbq/SDC/PIA-E. Samar)
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA July 16-31 2020 23 Association Online National DepEd-Maasin to receive 44 handwashing Taekwondo Speed Kicking facilities from city gov’t Championship on July 11-13, 2020 By: Erna S. Gorne MAASIN CITY -- All schools under the Maasin City Schools Division will have its handwashing facilities as the local government of Maasin City will be providing for those without said facilities which are needed in this time of COVID-19 health crisis. Schools Division Superintendent, Dr. Genis Murallos, said during the media briefing held at PIA-Southern Leyte Thursday, July 16, that Maasin City Mayor Nacional V. Mercado committed to give P45,000 each to the schools to fund for the construction of handwashing facilities as the opening of classes nears. As of this writing, there are about 44 out of 79 schools that do not have handwashing facilities, he said. Though water supply remains a problem in some school campuses, SDS Murallos strongly believe that this can be addressed with the support of the barangay officials to develop sources for water supply. “Surely these barangays officials will have their children or grandchildren coming to schools, thus, the needed help will not be far-fetched,” Murallos said. He added that 50 percent of their MOOE will be allocated
for the printing of learning modules while the other 50 percent will be utilized for other school supplies including soap, among others. As of press time, the Maasin City Schools Division has recorded 14,712 enrollees in public schools while 2,204 enrollees in the private schools, he added. However, even if enrollment deadline for the public schools has ended last July 15, 2020, those who decide to enroll beyond the deadline will still be accommodated until the end of September. Classes are expected to start on August 24, 2020 in public schools, he said. (ldl/esg/PIA8 S. Leyte)
Borongan’s Taekwondo players bring honor, prestige through medals By: Samuel D. Candido BORONGAN CITY -- The Borongan Taekwondo players hauled three medals during the recently concluded 2020 Philippine Taekwondo
at the Rizal Memorial Complex, Metro Manila. According to Mr. Joseph Sherwin A. Ambida, certified national referee and instructor of Taekwondo, some 180 participants nationwide send their entries through videos sent to the Philippine Taekwondo Association. In Eastern Visayas, participants were from Leyte – 20, Calbayog City – 4, and Eastern Samar – 3. Mr. Ambida said the competition is something of the new normal. There is no face-to-face contacts. The entries were sent to Philippine Taekwondo Association through videos uploaded to YouTube link. After two weeks, before the judging, there is a week for sorting videos according to different categories of Taekwondo. “Our three entries for the said competitions won three medals,” Ambida said. Declared winners are: Ms. Glendale Ambida, gold medallist, blackbelt junior category spees Kicking event; Ms. Tricia Padua, double silver medallist, blackbelt
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July 16-31 2020
AN REHIYON OCHO YANA “COVID - 19 affected..” continued from page 20
really of big help in terms of funding the operational expenditures of quarantine and isolation facilities. She advised all LCEs to just comply all the DOH requirements for certification so that PhilHealth can accredit the quarantine or “Leyte’s penal colony...” isolation facilities before availing the continued from page 9 benefit package. to promote eco-tourism and could Under PhilHealth Circular provide income to the PDLs while No. 2020-0018, the move is in reforming under the custody of the response to PhilHealth commitauthorities of the LRP. ment to develop benefit packages “The LRP resort would rede- providing for health services to all fine the misconception of the public Filipinos affected by COVID-19. about the Bureau of Corrections as a Based on the circular, the whole, obliterating the negative image coverage of the benefit package is and stigma, that the bureau is not a applicable to all claims for services place for denounced people but truly provided by identified publicly a facility for the holistic rehabilitation or privately-run facilities serving of offenders and helping them to reas community isolation units in form and become productive citizens,” response to the COVID-19 global Sabadisto said. pandemic. The Leyte Regional Prison The package shall specifihas a population of over 2,000 concally cover all inputs and activities victed offenders serving minimum, within the entire episode of care medium and maximum penalties. at the CIUs including payment for (ldl/cba/PIA8)
staff and professional fees, medicine, diagnostics, transport and other operational cost. (ldl/rsv/PIA-Biliran)
“Borongan’s Taekwondo..” continued from page 9 senior speed kicking and kick pad events; and Mr. Larry Dulfo, bronze medalist, blackbelt senior 2 category speed kicking event. Taekwondo is a Korean martial art characterized by each emphasis on head-height kicks, jumping and spinning kicks, and fast kicking techniques, said Ambida. It requires immense discipline and proper knowledge of the correct technique, he added. Ambida disclosed that kids these days play with their gadgets. Very few have given the value of sports and physical fitness. “It is hard for us to convince the children and even their parents,” Ambida added. Ambida said if the children like sports of Taekwondo, it helps them achieve self-discipline, perseverance, confidence, modesty, courage, hard work, patience, and sportsmanship. “I strongly instill discipline. That is why we were able to send our good players to Manila for college education wherein they are now Varsity players in prime universities,” Ambida said. (nbq/ SDC/PIA-E. Samar)