June 30, 2008 - At least four government troops and nine New People’s Army (NPA) rebels were killed in a spate of encounters in different parts of Surigao del Norte starting Saturday night, particularly on Siargao Island, a famous international surfing site.

Army Maj. Armando Rico, spokesman of the Armed Forces’ Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) based in Davao City, said the NPA guerrillas attacked the municipal halls and police stations of the towns of Dapa and General Luna on Siargao Island starting at around 10:45 p.m. Saturday.

Rico said the rebels, who reportedly numbered 120, first attacked the police station and torched a Globe Telecom cell site in General Luna, and then fled on board a passenger van toward neighboring Dapa town where they ransacked the police armory of 16 firearms.

The two towns – of the total nine municipalities on Siargao – are 14 kilometers apart. The island is about two to three hours by motorboat from the port of Surigao City.

Rico said the insurgents also raided courtrooms and several government offices in Dapa, including those of the Social Security System, local water district, Bureau of Internal Revenue and the Philippine Health Insurance Corp.

Government troops pursued the fleeing rebels, five of whom were reportedly killed yesterday in Lapinigan, an islet town in Surigao del Norte.

The Eastmincom dispatched a helicopter gunship yesterday to help the ground troops pursue the guerrillas.

Rico said the rebels boarded at least five pumpboats to flee Siargao Island toward Claver town in the Surigao del Norte mainland.

But only three of the pumpboats were able to dock in Barangay Panatao in Claver where joint military and police forces engaged the rebels in a firefight, capturing five of them.

Rico said the rebels could have taken advantage of the people’s focus on yesterday’s fight of boxing camp Manny Pacquiao with Mexican David Diaz.

But Senior Superintendent Samuel Yordan of the Caraga police command said they have warned all police units to brace for NPA attacks.

Sources said the government fatalities included two members of the Regional Mobile Group and two Army soldiers.

Police and military forces spent time yesterday removing the landmines planted by the fleeing rebels in certain areas between Dapa and General Luna towns. (philstar)
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June 30, 2008 - Government forces backed by two Air Force helicopter gun ships killed nine communist rebels in two separate gun battles in Surigao del Norte province yesterday, the military said.

Two policemen were also killed while four others were wounded.

Maj. Armand Rico, spokesman of the Armed Force’s Eastern Mindanao Command, said the first clash broke out in the town of Claver around 5:30 a.m. and the other took place on Lapinigan island six hours later.

Rico said the troops were composed of men from the Army’s 30th Infantry Battalion, 42nd Military Intelligence Company and policemen from the Regional Mobile Group.

He said the soldiers from the Army’s 30th Infantry Battalion, 42nd Military Intelligence Company supported by the Regional Mobile Police Group and the local police were pursuing New People’s Army (NPA) rebels who simultaneously attacked the police stations in Dapa and Gen. Luna towns in Surigao del Sur province on Saturday night.

Rico said after raiding the police stations, the rebels escaped aboard five rubber boats – two of them headed for Claver town while the three others for Lapinigan island.

During the running gun battle, five rebels were captured in Lapinigan.

“The boats they (rebels) commandeered encountered sea engine trouble. That’s why our troops engaged them,” Maj. Michelle Anayron, regional Army spokesman, said.

He said the government troops seized one M16 rifle and one M203 grenade rifle from the communist guerrillas.

“This actually started last (Saturday) night when the rebels attacked police stations in Dapa and General Luna. We reinforced and we were able to trace their withdrawal and our troops encountered them,” Rico said.

He said initially, troops led by 1Lt. Joselito Anti engaged the withdrawing rebels, who were reportedly members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee.

Brig. Gen. Ricardo David Jr., area command chief of the Army’s Northeastern and Northern Mindanao Fourth Infantry Division, had ordered Brig. Gen. Dante Fernandez, commanding officer of the 402nd Infantry Brigade to deploy more combat troops in Claver.

War planes and attack gunship helicopters of the Philippine Air Force’s strike wing and helicopter wing of the Armed Forces were also dispatched to extend air cover to the government troops pursuing the fleeing rebels.

The attack in Siargao Island, the most recorded peaceful area in Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga region) on Saturday night is the first to have happened in the island.

Initial police and military reports said at about 10:30 p.m. Saturday, NPA rebels simultaneously conducted a raid of two municipal halls and police stations, the Dapa, Surigao del Norte and Gen. Luna municipal halls and police offices all in Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte and carted away at least 16 long and short firearms.

Twenty of the estimated 60-man rebel group stormed the Dapa police station and swiftly disarmed the six policemen who were on duty at the time.

The other rebels ransacked nearby government offices situated within the Municipal Hall’s compound.

They also destroyed computers and other facilities of the Dapa Fire Station, Dapa Water District, Dapa Municipal Circuit and Trial Court, the local offices of the private pension fund Social Security System, the Bureau of Internal Revenue and the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. and the Public Attorney’s Offices.

Police said the rebels also destroyed computer and other equipment of the Dapa Municipal Police Office.

The insurgents also did the same in Gen. Luna, which is merely 14 kilometers away from Dapa.

Before they staged the attacks, the rebels allegedly knocked the communication facilities in the two towns. (daily tribune)
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BUTUAN CITY June 30, 2008 —At least nine communist New People’s Army (NPA) rebels and two policemen were killed as clashes between government forces and the rebels continued in Surigao del Norte as of 3 p.m. Sunday, a military spokesperson said.
Four policemen were also injured in the clashes, according to Maj. Armand Rico, spokesperson of the military’s Eastern Mindanao Command based in Davao City.

The clashes have now spread to Claver town where government forces have conducted blocking operation against NPA rebels fleeing the military pursuit on Siargao Island, he said.

Rico said the bodies of the slain rebels had been recovered.

He said the joint police and military operations were launched after the communist rebels raided the police stations of General Luna and Dapa towns on Saturday evening.

The first attack occurred in General Luna town when more than 30 NPA rebels on board pump boats assaulted the police station at around 10:30 p.m., according to Surigao del Norte police chief Senior Supt. Benhur Mongao.

“They engaged the rebels but they were no match against the rebels’ superiority in number so the station was [captured],” Mongao told the Philippine Daily Inquirer (parent company of INQUIRER.net).

He identified the wounded policeman as PO1 William Dayday, who was rushed to a hospital in Surigao City.

After overpowering the lawmen, Mongao said the rebels ransacked the station’s armory and took five firearms and communications equipment.

“The rebels also bombed a Globe tower to prevent troop reinforcements before they proceeded to the nearby town of Dapa, a 15-minute motor ride from General Luna where they were joined by 30 other rebels,” he said.

In Dapa, Mongao said the rebels swooped down on the police station on board three vans and overpowered the six policemen on duty.

Aside from taking with them M-16 rifles and six pistols from the station’s armory, the rebels also ransacked the offices of the town’s fire station, water district, Bureau of Internal Revenue, PhilHealth, Social Security System and court rooms, he said.

“Before retreating, the rebels hoisted the flag of the Communist Party of the Philippines at the municipal hall and distributed subversive leaflets,” Mongao said.

Rico said pursuing troops managed to catch up with the rebels in Dapa and engaged them in a firefight.

“The military has sent a helicopter gunship to aid the troops in battling the rebels,” he said.

The NPA has stepped up attacks in various parts of Mindanao even as the government declared it will end the rebellion by 2010. (inquirer)
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2008-06-29 10:18:54 - War planes and attack gunship helicopters of the Philippine Air Force's (PAF) strike wing and helicopter wing of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) were deployed to extend air cover to the pursuing Army combat maneuvering battalion who encountered Sunday morning the withdrawing communist insurgents in Surigao del Norte, sketchy reports reaching the tactical advance command post (ACP) of the Army's Northeastern and Northern Mindanao Fourth Infantry (Diamond) Division stated.

The air support to the ground troops started at 10 o'clock in the morning. The war planes and helicopters took off from Bancasi Airport in Butuan City and flew to 'specified target' areas in Claver and still undisclosed targets, it was learned.

Maj. Michele B. Anayron, regional Army spokesman, said blocking combat soldiers of the 30th Infantry Battallion, personally led by
Lt. Col. Cristobal Zaragosa encountered the running New People's Army (NPA) rebels at 9:15 in the morning in nearby coastal area in Panatao, Claver, Surigao del Norte.

At least five NPA rebels were already captured in Lapinigan island while one M16 Armalite rifle with M203 tube was also seized in the ensuing gunbattle.

Identities of the captured NPA rebels were temporarily withheld pending tactical interrogation.

'The boats they (NPA) commandeered encountered sea engine trouble, that's why our troops engaged them,' said Maj. Anayron, adding 'Running gunbattle is still raging in the area'.

Initially, troops of 1Lt. Joselito Anti engaged the estimated 40 withdrawing rebels, who are reportedly members of the CPP-NPA Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee, he said.

He said the encountered NPA rebels were part of the attacking communist insurgents in the municipalities of Dapa and General Luna, in Siargao Island of that same province Saturday night.

Maj. Anayron said operating troops in Claver area cannot still determine the number of casualties in Panatao heavy gunbattle as fighting still rages as of press time while another encounter still rages in unidentified coastal area in Claver town.

Brig. Gen. Ricardo A. David Jr., area command chief of the Army's Northeastern and Northern Mindanao Fourth Infantry (Diamond) Division, ordered Brig. Gen. Dante Fernandez, commanding officer of the 402nd Infantry (Stingers) Brigade the deployment of more combat troops in Claver, Maj. Anayron added.

The attack in Siargao Island, the most recorded peaceful area in Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga region) on Saturday night is the first that ever happened in the island.

Chief Supt. Jaime E. Milla, regional director of Northeastern Mindanao Police Regional Office 13 (PRO 13) is currently in the island, particularly in the municipalities of Dapa and General Luna, to assess the situation and to personally supervise the island's police force in the pursuit operation to fleeing communist insurgents.

BUTUAN CITY, June 29 (PNA) -- At least 16 long and short firearms were carted away by an estimated 60 suspected New People's Army rebels who simultaneously ransacked two Municipal Halls and police stations, the Dapa, Surigao del Norte and General Luna Municipal Halls and police offices all in Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte on Saturday at about 10:30 p.m, initial police and military reports said.

The Municipalities of Dapa and General Luna, the country's surfing capital and where many foreigners are now staying, is just 14 kilometers apart from each other, all situated in the Siargao Island.

Siargao Island which has nine municipalities is about two to three hours away by motorboat ride from the sea port of Surigao City.

Fourth Infantry Division Philippine Army spokesman Major Michelle Anayron, Jr. confirmed the attack and claimed military and police reinforcements are now pursuing the attackers believed to be mostly young rebels.

Initial police report reaching this regionʼs capital, particularly at the Caraga Regional Police Information Office here, claimed an estimated 60 fully-armed men and women clad in black uniforms boarding in six vans suddenly disembarked and scattered all over Dapa Municipal Hall Compound.

Twenty of them stormed Dapa Municipal Police Office where about six police personnel allegedly on duty. The raiders announced a raid then ordered all shocked and helpless policemen to lie face down on the floor.

Suspected NPA rebels then took away all six service short firearms and three M-16 armalite rifles of the policemen and undetermined number of ammunitions.

While the 20 suspected NPA rebels were busy guarding and hoarding firearms of the policemen, other comrades of the NPA raiders ransacked nearby government offices situated within the Municipal Hall compound.

The suspects destroyed computers and other facilities of the Dapa Fire Station, Dapa Water District, Dapa Municipal Circuit and Trial Court, SSS, BIR, Philippine Health or Phil Health and Public Attorneyʼs Offices.

Police said the suspects also destroyed computer and other equipment of the Dapa Municipal Police Office.

As the raid in Dapa town progressed, suspected communist rebels, also estimated to be 60 fully armed guerillas, conducted lightning raid on General Luna Municipal Police Office and carted away six service firearms, one M-16 armalite rifle and five others whose caliber or type of firearms were not reported.

Police reports claimed the General Luna Municipal Police Station, led by its chief of police, was able to put-up a firefight for more or less 15 minutes before being overrun by the Communist terrorists.

A certain PO1 William Montilla Dayday was wounded and is presently confined in a hospital.

Like in Dapa, the General Luna Police Station is situated within the Municipal Hall compound.

Same report claimed personnel from Surigao del Sur, Surigao del Norte Police Provincial Offices and 14th Regional Mobile Group had already deployed as blocking/intercepting forces at the possible escape routes of attackers while Philippine Army personnel in the area has also called for reinforcement.

Before the simultaneous attacks, the rebels allegedly knocked out communication facilities of the two island towns. (Balita Pinoy - Philippine News & Analysis)
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June 26 -- A native of Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte identified as Reynaldo Saray Catong, 42 years old, married, farmer and resident of Barangay Camam-oman, voluntarily surrendered loose firearm to Senior Police Officer 2 Manzares.

Said firearm is now under the custody of Gigaquit Municipal Police Station for proper disposition.


PNP elements of 14th RMG and BCPS-3 conduct operation against illegal gambling

The PNP elements of 14th Regional Mobile Group (RMG) led by Police Inspector Silvestre Asiong in coordination with Butuan City Police Station-3 (BCPS-3) conducted operation against illegal gambling yesterday (June 25) at 8:00 in the evening in Barangay Bancasi, Butuan City.

The operation resulted to the confiscation of two fruit game machines and one video "karera" machine in plain view.

As to PNP report, no one claim ownership of said machines.

Confiscated items were brought to 14th RMG Headquarters for proper disposition.

Santiago cops arrest theft suspect

A theft suspect was arrested yesterday (June 25) at 11:30 in the morning in Purok-3, Poblacion 1, Santiago, Agusan del Norte.

PNP elements of Santiago Municipal Police Station (MPS) arrested the suspect by virtue of Warrant of Arrest (WOA) issued by Honorable Judge Orlando M Maclang, formerly Presiding Judge of Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 4, Cabadbaran City docketed under CC number 2003-136 for the crime of theft with recommended bailbond amounting to 24,000.00 pesos.

Suspect was identified as Mordalino Sososco Quijano, 20 yrs old, laborer and resident of Purok-8, Poblacion, Santiago, Agusan Del Norte.

Subject person is now detained at Santiago Municipal Police Station for proper disposition.

PNP Cabadbaran investigates drowning incident

A drowning incident took place in NIA Irrigation Canal, Purok-8, Barangay Calamba, Cabadbaran City recently.

Initial investigation disclosed that the victim, identified as Lagrio Andungan Arocha, 49 years old, single and resident of Barangay Calamba, Cabadbaran City was on a drinking spree together with his friends at Lyns Store of the Nia Irrigation Canal, Purok-8, Barangay Calamba, Cabadbaran City on Monday, June 23 at 7:30 in the evening.

At around 9:30 in the evening, the victim went home drunk. Bu was found dead floating at Nia Irrigation Canal of said place, on the following day, Tuesday, June 24 at 6:00 in the morning.

Follow-up operation conducted by PNP elements of Cabadbaran City Police Station disclosed that the victim while walking on a human bridge made of coconut log across the irrigation canal, accidentally slipped and fell down to the water and drowned.

Victim was brought to Cabadbaran Emergency Hospital for post mortem examination and it was confirmed by the attending physician that there was no sign of foul play to the victim.

Del Carmen PNP arrests suspect in stabbing incident

A stabbing incident suspect identified as Jose Comilas Tonera, of legal age, married, jobless and resident of Sta Cruz, Del Carmen, Surigao del Sur was arrested yesterday (June 25) at 1:30 in the afternoon, by Del Carmen Municipal Police officers.

The victim identified as Jestoni Mantilla, of legal age, single, jobless and resident of Sitio Matam-is, Barangay Jamoyaon, Del Carmen, Surigao Del Norte was stabbed on his stomach and rushed by the residents to Del Carmen District Hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival by the attending physician.

According to report, motive of suspect for stabbing the victim is still unknown.

Suspect is now under the custody of Del Carmen Municipal Police Station for proper disposition. (PNP-PRO 13 and PIA-Caraga)
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Surigao del Norte (June 25) -- The Siargao Islands Protected Landscape and Seascapes - FOCAS Management Committee (SIPLAS-FMC) of the Australian Agency for International Development - Philippines-Australia Community Assistance Program (AusAusAID-PACAP) in Surigao del Norte, issued a press statement recently to clarify some points pertaining to the unfortunate incident in Barangay Rizal, Sta. Monica, Surigao del Norte which resulted in the relocation of the project of the Dayangayag Marine Sanctuary, a AusAID-PACAP Assisted Project.

Contrary to some irresponsible allegations, and erroneous reports that the said project is illegal and illegitimate, the SIPLAS-FMC revealed that the, "Dayangayag Marine Sanctuary is one of the components of the Integrated Resource Management Initiatives (IRMIS) in Sta. Monica.

A 2.5 year project implemented by the Surigao del Norte People's Initiative for Development Association (SNPIDA) with the funding assistance of the AusAID under PACAP. The project in its concept, strategies, components and activities was developed in 2006 with the support and approval of the Local Government Unit (LGU) of the Municipality of Sta. Monica, and the officials of the three (3) target barangays, namely: Rizal, T. Arlan and Magsaysay. The latter is reflected in the Joint Resolution of the three (3) barangays adopted in April 2007."

"The establishment of the Dayangayag Marine Sanctuary was based on the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed by the incumbent Local Chief Executive last July 2007 during the formal project launching attended by the POs, LGU Officials and the Secretariate and some members of the SIPLAS FMC and representatives from the DENR," it stated.

Moreover, SIPLAS-FMC revealed that the agreed location for the Sanctuary is Barangay Rizal, with an indicative area covering at least ten (10) hectares. However, during the Participatory Community Resource Assessment (PCRA) conducted by the SNPIDA with the technical assistance and supervision of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the Marine Sanctuary was recommended to include a total of fifty-five (55) hectares in consideration to the actual conditions of the corals and other technical basis.

And for the past three (3) months, with their 24-hour patrolling and installation of a Bio-Diversity Monitoring Station in the area. They have already apprehended violators using active gears and a number of abalone hunters. Also, the Sangguniang Bayan Resolution formally confirmed the Dayangayag Marine Sanctuary is at present under review, pending the finalization of the size/hectare to be included in the sanctuary and the relocation of its proper coordinates.

Thus, with the aforementioned facts the SIPLAS-FMC declared that the said project is legal, legitimate and mutually agreed development project implemented in Sta. Monica, Surigao del Norte. True to all other PACAP-Assisted project, the IRMIS Project promotes and requires pro-active partnership and effective collaboration between the community, the civil society and the local government units and line agencies.

Further, the SIPLAS-FMC enjoined the parties concerned to be responsible and objective in resolving the issue without prejudice to the whole development effort that would benefit the municipality of Sta. Monica, particularly the PO and residents of the partner barangays. (PIA-Surigao del Norte)
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Anchored by: Tirso 'Jun' Clerigo
Reporters: Mario Semorlan
Joselito Gibertas
Elvis Romero

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BUTUAN CITY (June 24, 2008) – Rescue teams of the Regional Disaster Coordinating Council (RDCC) and provincial and municipal disaster coordinating councils were dispatched to conduct rescue operations for seven fishermen who were reported missing after their fishing boats were battered by typhoon "Frank" in tthe sea off General Luna, Surigao del Norte on Friday and Saturday.

Northeastern Mindanao Police Regional Office 13 PRO 13) Regional Director Chief Supt. Jaime E. Milla, also mobilized Philippine Cast Guard (PCG), Maritime, and other fishing groups to help in search and rescue operation for the missing fishermen.

Surigao del Norte solon Rep. Francisco T. Matugas and Gov. Robert Ace Barbers also dispatched their respective rescue teams.

Brig. Gen. Ricardo A. David, Jr., area command chief of the Army’s Northeastern and Northern Mindanao Fourth Infantry (Diamond) Division, directed Brig. Gen. Dante Fernandez, commanding general of the Army’s 402nd Infantry (Stingers) Brigade. to assist in the search and rescue operation.(Mike U. Crismundo)
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June 22, 2008 - Seven fishermen were reported missing in Siargao and Surigao del Norte, while 39 others were separately rescued when three fishing boats capsized after these were slammed by strong winds brought by Typhoon Frank on Friday.

A report gathered from the police regional office in Butuan City said the Coast Guard and the Quick Action Response Team based in Surigao City were still conducting a rescue mission for the seven missing fishermen.

Reported missing were Johnrey Asan, 27; Wendelberto Asan, 21; Alan Asan, 39; George Ubay, 20; Damian Usayan, 51; Rejay Itac, 35 and Jun Zaide, 34 who are all residents of Purok 2, Sabang in Surigao City.

The 39 other crewmen were swept to neighboring coastlines in Cagwait, Surigao del Sur and Taganaan in Surigao del Norte.

At around 1 a.m. Friday, MV Meme II manned by 18 crew and MV Balljack Tricks manned by 11 men capsized off the shores of General Luna on Siargao Island due to strong winds as Typhoon Frank started to hit Surigao.

The missing victims belonged to MV Meme II while the remaining survivors of the two ill-fated boats were rescued by another fishing boat named MTGR, which arrived at Cagwait Port at around 10 a.m. Saturday.

At around 10 a.m. Friday, fishing boat Trina also capsized off the waters of Gigaquit in Surigao del Norte, but the 17 crewmen were rescued by fishermen, local government rescue team and Quick Response Team in separate coastal villages of Taganaan, Surigao del Norte.

In Central Mindanao, military personnel from the 6th Infantry Division and civic groups continued relief and search and rescue efforts to thousands of villagers displaced by flashfloods Saturday in Shariff Kabunsuan and nearby provinces.

Early Sunday, Air Force helicopters assisted ground troops in locating stranded civilians in Shariff Kabunsuan province as floodwaters started to settle down.

In South Upi, Maguindanao, villagers resumed searching for the remains of 10 people who were swept away by rampaging waters after the Rifao river overflowed Saturday dawn.

"We are still searching, hopefully we can recover them, even their dead bodies so decent burial could be done," village official Joy Rapsing Meles.

"We appeal to villages at the downstream of Rifao river, particulary in Lebak, Sultan Kudarat to fish out dead bodies along the river, if they see one," she said.

Col. Julieto Ando, 6th Infantry Division spokersperson, said the waters in the villages of Bulalo, Salimbao and Calzada, all in Sultan Kudarat town have not totally settled.

"Our chopper pilots find some people on the roof top of their homes and reported to our ground troops for rescue efforts," Ando said early Sunday.

Local officials placed the fatality figures at 17 with about five others missing in Maguindanao, Shariff Kabunsuan and North Cotabato.

Of the fatalities, 10 are from South Upi, Maguindanao, two in Cotabato, four in Guindulungan, Maguindanao and one in Alameda, North Cotabato.

Also in South Upi, Maguindanao, separate landslide incidents in Barangays Gila-gila and Kuya led to the immediate rescue of some 20 persons buried in mud.

In Barangay Pansud, Lebak, rescuers were still searching for the whereabouts of a pregnant woman who was reportedly swept away on Saturday by strong water current.

The towns of Isulan, Esperanza, and Tacurong City in Sultan Kudarat and nearby towns of Talayan, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Shariff Aguak, and Ampatuan in Maguindanao were practically inundated due to the overflowing of the Ala River.

Agriculture officials in Central Mindanao and in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao said more than P50 million worth of rice and corn crops were damaged by the flash floods.

In Sarangani Province, three persons were killed while millions of pesos worth of crops, properties and infrastructure projects were destroyed.

Provincial social welfare and disaster chief Hermelo Latoja told reporters that more than 1,800 families with about 7,000 dependents were displaced by the floods in four affected towns of the province.

Latoja reported that the displaced residents were temporarily sheltered at the respective municipal gymnasium of Kiamba, Maasim, Maitum and Alabel.

Kiamba town mayor Rommel Falgui reported to the provincial disaster council that two persons were killed by flashfloods in his town.

Falgui, however, did not give the name of the victims.

In Maitum, one unidentified person was also reported killed by the flashflood.

The Sangguniang Bayan of Alabel declared a state of calamity in the town.

Initial cost of damage on crops, properties and infrastructure projects in Kiamba and Maasim alone was placed at P8.1 million.

In Zamboanga City, six persons were injured while more than a thousand families of about 6,000 dependents were displaced by flooding in the eastern side of the city.

Francisco Barredo, city social welfare officer, said strong winds also toppled some electric posts, cutting power lines to some residents.

City Agriculturist Diosdado Palacat said about 50 hectares of rice farms were also destroyed by the flood. (inquirer.net)
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Surigao City (19 June) -- Dako ang pasalamat ni Gob. Ace Barbers sa gipakita nga suporta ug tabang sa mga lideres dinhi sa probinsya.

Ang maong gipakita nga kooperasyon sa tanang lideres nagpasabot lamang nga ubos sa administrasyong Barbers, tumong ug tinguha lamang niini ang kaayohan sa mga katawhan, ug naghatag siya sa tinuod nga diwa sa demokrasya. Gipanglantawan ni Gob. Barbers nga makab-ot gayud ang tinuod nga kahiusahan sa tanang mga lideres para makahatag ug maayo nga panirbisyo ngadto sa mga katawhan.

Tungod sa kalimitado nga pundo sa probinsya, nanghinaot si Gob. Barbers nga ang lideres magkahiusa ug magtinabangay aron ang tanang gikinahanglan sa mga katawhan mahatag ug ihipling una ang mga politikanhong interes. Matad pa ni Gob. Barbers n asa pagpangalagad, dili sukdon sa mga katawhan basi sa mga saad, ug ang mga lideres dili pud unta hangtud lamang sa mga saad. Matabangan pud unta ang ubang adbokasiya ni Gob. Barbers labi n asa kinaiyahan ug ang "Peace and Order".

Dako ang panghina-ot ni Gob. Ace Barbers nga ibutang unta sa ubang mga lideres sa ilang kasing-kasing ug huna-huna nga ang panirbisyo dili pamulitika, implementar una ang mga proyekto ug dili mag-una ang pagpangsibya nga wala pa gani mahimo. (Media Affairs/PIA-Surigao del Norte)
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Gov. Robert Ace S. Barbers declared recently that there is a need of a special team to give focus on the enforcement of environmental laws in order to curb the illegal operations affecting the environmental and natural resources of this province as well as facilitate a speedy filing of cases against violator

The recent drive of the provincial government against illegal mining, illegal logging and illegal fishing resulted to a series of apprehensions in the municipalities of Claver, Placer, Tubod, Alegria and Malimono.

"This is our advocacy…the people's advocacy", added the governor. "We in the province cannot do it alone as different enforcement agencies and department have different standard operating procedures in the enforcement of the law", stressed the governor.

In order to harmonize the standard operating procedures of the different enforcement agencies, the Provincial Government of Surigao del Norte through the Provincial Environment and Management Office (PEMO) initiated an Interface Meeting last March 27, 2008 to trace out issues and concerns and come out with a synchronized concrete plan.

If the Special Task Force Kinaiyahan will be formally organized through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) and an Executive Order, it is expected to have a strong inter-agency coordination and jointly provide assistance in the operational and legal aspects of intelligence and enforcement.

The Task Force will be composed of the different enforcement agencies, national line agencies and private organizations with concerns on the environment such as the Philippine National Police, Philippine Army, the local Maritime and Coastguard Offices, Bureau of Customs, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources and the Department of Environment and Natural Resouces and Surigao del Norte NGO Coalition for Development among others.

"We are dead-serious in our enforcing environmental laws. This is part of our efforts towards protecting and managing our environment and natural resources through the Advocacy for a Clean Environment and its Sustainability (ACES) Program," said the governor. (PEMO/PIA-Surigao del Norte)
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MINDANAO experienced five tremors for the first 11 days of June with the latest quake hitting Isulan, Sultan Kudarat in June 11.

Based on the record of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), Wednesday's tremor registered at 5.1 in the Richter scale with Isulan as its epicenter.

A day before that, June 10, General Santos City also experienced a 5.0 magnitude earthquake. On June 2, Surigao City was the epicenter of a 3.5 magnitude quake at around 9:36 p.m. Earlier that same day, Lanuza in Surigao del Sur was also the site of a 3.7 quake.

Agusan del Norte also experienced an earthquake on June 2 that registered 4.7 in the Richter scale.

Last month, tremors also struck in Tagum City, General Santos, and Digos in Davao del Sur.

The month of March 2008 had the most number of earthquakes in Mindanao with majority of them happening in Kidapawan City. Of all the mentioned tremors, no property or lives were reported damaged or lost. (sunstar)
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At least 100,000 cavans of rice imported by the National Food Authority (NFA) arrived in Mindanao to ease the problems caused by a recent rice price hike in the region.

Radio reports bared that the 100,000 cavans meant for the Caraga region arrived on board two vessels from Vietnam and Thailand.

NFA Surigao del Norte provincial manager Regino Delfin said they expect the newly arrived shipment to keep supply and prices of rice in the region stable.

Caraga covers the provinces of Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Norte and Surigao del Sur.

In past weeks, prices of rice in some cities in Mindanao shot up, with the NFA blaming part of the problem to farmers who partially hoarded their supplies or were anticipating the lean months starting July.
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Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Rolando Andaya, Jr. today (June 12) led the 110th celebration of Philippine Independence Day in front of the City Hall here.

Andaya's party arrived at the city at 7 a.m. to formally start the simultaneous observance of the Independence Day throughout the country.

Andaya, the event's guest of honor, was joined by local officials led by City Mayor Alfonso Casurra, City Vice Mayor Rico Salvador Sering, Surigao del Norte Gov. Robert Ace Barbers, Surigao del Norte Vice Gov. Noel Catre, Dinagat Islands Congresswoman Glenda Ecleo and Dinagat Islands Vice Gov. Elvis dela Merced in the commemoration of the event

Carrying the theme "Republic Service Tungo sa Ganap na Kalayaan at Kaunlaran," Mayor Casurra expressed with elation that the city was chosen as the venue of the few areas that were highlighted in the celebration of the 110th Independence Day Celebration.

"We are fortunate enough that for this year, the city of Surigao has been chosen as the venue of the few areas that will be highlighted in the celebration of the 110th Independence Day Celebration, probably the first of its kind, that in Caraga Region it is being held here in the city of Surigao."

Casurra highlighted the historical act, which took place in Surigao the hoisting of the Philippine Flag in December 26, 1898. "You all remember that the first Philippine flag was hoisted here in the city."

Gov. Barbers brought to light the role of the forefathers in the freedom struggle.

"There is no fitting way to celebrate our independence in this day of age but by reliving and bringing into reality the visions of our forefathers. The struggle for freedom of our forefathers is in chapter in our history, what is filled in sacrifices and written with their own blood so to speak in order to free us from our foreign oppressors."

Sec. Andaya, on the other hand, emphasized the role of the Surigaonons in the fight for freedom. "While the traditional June 12 rites revolved around the Tagalog region, one cannot be denied that the birthing of the first Asian republic was a national enterprise. Most of our history books today recalled the revolution of 1898 on the 8 rays of the sun, confining the struggle only to Luzon as if the struggle of freedom did not cross the sea... ang lenguahe ng paghihimagsik, ang lenguahe ng pagbabago ay hindi lang ho limitado sa pananalog ni Emilio Aguinaldo, lenguahe rin ho ng mga magigiting ang salitang Surigaonon (the language of revolution, the language of change are not limited only to the native tongue of Emilio Aguinaldo. Surigaonon dialect is also the language of the brave.)"

"This was the language of Simon, Wenceslao and Florencio Gonzales our father and his 3 sons who echoed the cry of freedom and eloquently in both words and deeds. This (Surigaonon) was the language of those who gathered here on the morning of the December 26, 1898 to witness the first hoisting of the Philippine flag in the island of Mindanao," he added.

Meanwhile, at 7 a.m., President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo led in the unveiling of the flag marker and at the flag raising ceremonies at the Rizal Park.

She also led in the wreath-laying ceremony at the Rizal Monument. The flag-raising ceremony was simultaneously held in 11 remote points all over the country, which was led by several Cabinet officials. (PIA-Surigao del Norte)
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Budget Secretary Rolando Andaya bares today (June 12) the release of funds of the national wealth from minerals and forestry resources amounting to Php262 Million throughout Caraga Region.

In his speech during the 110th Independence Celebration in Surigao City, Sec. Andaya enumerated the following mineral share for the provincial gov't of Surigao del Norte amounted to 30 Million, for Claver 31.8 Million, Surigao City government will receive 35.9 Million.

"Seven barangays will share the balance, Brgy. Taganito in Claver 23.2 Million, Talisay 10.3 Million, San Pedro 3.9 Million, Nonoc 7.2 Million, Cantiasay 6.3 Million all in Surigao City," Andaya added.

For the province of Dinagat Islands the provincial government according to Andaya will get P8.5 Million, Cagdianao P17.3 Million and in one barangay in Cagdianao, Brgy. Valencia is set to receive P13.4 Million.

"For the forestry, the dividend of the region is P54.8 Million to be shared by two provinces Surigao del Sur P42.3 Million and in Agusan del Sur P12.4 Million."

On top of this, Sec. Andaya also said the President has approved the release of P5 Million for the construction of a water system in San Isidro, Surigao del Norte, P5 Million for the construction of a road connecting Brgy. Sering to Brgy. Atuyay in Socorro, Surigao del Norte, P1.2 Million for the construction of a school building in Tubod District Elementary School, P1.2 Million for the construction of a school building in Sison Elementary School, 1.5 Million for a new school building in Surigao City Elementary School, 650,000 for a classroom in Bacuag Elementary School, Placer Elementary School, Malimono Elementary School. 500,000 for classroom in Alegria National High School and San Francisco Elementary School and P1.5 Million for a new ward in Caraga Regional Hospital.

"For Surigao City we have also earmarked 10 Million pesos for various health, education, infrastructure projects… we are also releasing the initial mobilization fund in the amount of P10 Million for the reconstruction of Banban Bridge in Tagana-an, Surigao del Norte. The rehabilitation of Union-Malinao road in Gen. Luna and the Mansayao, Cabuyawan, Pili, Cantapoy road in Malimono," Andaya added.

Additional assistance will also be received by the Dinagatnons for the construction of farm to market road in Basilisa town amounted to 10 Million as requested by Dinagat Islands Gov. Jade Ecleo.

Furthermore, Andaya bares the acquisition of PNP patrol cars in the amount of 1.5 Million, the completion of a gymnasium in Cagdianao, Dinagat Islands amounted to 2 Million. 1.5 Million for the Ecleo School of Fisheries and 5 Million for the completion of a multipurpose building in San Jose, Dinagat Islands. (PIA-Surigao del Norte)
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A neophyte law maker that has a prolific relentless heart for genuine public service.

Barely a year in his post, 2nd District Congressman of Surigao del Norte, Hon. Guillermo Romarate, Jr., has his cup hands full of development projects for his constituents. One of his urgent priority is the provision of health insurance for the poor Surigaonon families thru PhilHealths' Sponsored Program. He signs the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with PhilHealth Caraga duly represented by Dr. Eduardo Gonzalez together with the nine Municipal Mayors from Alegria, Bacuag, Claver, Gigaquit, Mainit, Placer, San Francisco, Taganaan, and Surigao City to enroll 15,286 indigent families equivalent to P6,207,000 annual premium which he personally earmarked out of his Congressional fund.

As an upshot, enrolment in these municipalities will increase from a mere 43 percent to 100 percent or Universal Health Insurance coverage for all families living below poverty line. Further, this will ensure poor families' freedom from fear of medical crisis and help reshape the impoverished state of their localities.

It was unanimously agreed that all selected qualified beneficiaries be enrolled and provided with their PhilHealth Cards within the fist semester of 2008.

As a former Mayor of Tubod, he had wittingly resculptured the facets of public health by enrolling all indigent families into the National Health Insurance Program and having his Rural Health Center (RHU) accredited. In return, he received additional funds from PhilHealth known as PhilHealth Capitation Fund (PCF), which he used to provide free much needed drugs and medical supplies, and wide array of laboratory services not only for poor families enrolled in PhilHealth but to all of his constituents within and beyond his borders. Rural Health Staff were also able to enjoy additional incentives out of the PCF and were therefore inspired to continuously improve their quality of service transcending the mediocrity of public health service perceived and experienced in government-owned facilities.

He earnestly campaign that this tested formula of public health reforms be replicated by other municipalities through vigorous leadership of their respective Local Chief Executives.

He is presently working on enrolling more indigent families in Malimono, Surigao del Norte in partnership with all the barangay local governments.

Apart from Congressman Romarate's initiative, other District Representatives also manifested their intention to enroll indigent families to the Sponsored Program.

Congressman Francisco Matugas intends to enroll 11,359 families of the 1st District of Surigao del Norte while Congressman Florencio Garay is to sign up 4,500 families of the 2nd District of Surigao del Sur both under the Legislative Sponsorship Program. All signifies to adopt, allocate and implement the Sponsored Program to their respective constituency. Congressman Jose S. Aquino II, of the 1st District of Agusan del Norte on the other hand has already forged an agreement with PhilHealth to allocate funds from his Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) to enroll 3,486 families, of which 1,166 families will start to enjoy medicare benefits by 2nd quarter of 2008 and the remaining 2,320 will follow on 3rd quarter of 2008. (PHIC-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)

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The entire province of Surigao del Norte joins with the rest of the provinces all over the country in celebrating June as National Kidney Month.

Carrying the theme, "25 Taong Pangunguna sa Serbisyo para sa Kalusugan ng Bato ng Sambayanang Pilipino," this year's celebration aims to increase public awareness on the importance and care of the kidneys and the prevention and control of kidney ailments.

The celebration kicked-off with a motorcade Wednesday morning, June 4, spearheaded by the Provincial Health Team in coordination with the Renal Diseases Control Program (REDCOP) Coalition Members that include Phil. Nurses Association, PAMET, ROTARACT Club of Metro Surigao, PIA, DEPED City and Surigao del Norte Divisions, PACEMCO, City Health Office, Prov'l Health Office, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and Placer Rural Health Center.

PHT Team Leader and current REDCOP Chairperson, Mr. Erwin Pingal bared that various activities have been lined up to highlight the month-long observance.

Among these are the conduct of information and education campaign related to the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of kidney diseases, Hataw Exercise, and screening services that include urinalysis and tests on blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure on June 13 at San Francisco, Surigao del Norte.

As part of kidney awareness campaign, Pingal also advises each and everyone to drink at least 6 to 8 glasses of water per day and to drink fruit juices.

Kidney diseases rank as the 10th leading cause of death in the country. Last year, data from the REDCOP revealed that almost 7, 109 Filipinos suffer from End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) and are undergoing dialysis. (Fryan E. Abkilan, PIA-Surigao del Norte) Read rest of story...

Police operatives from the Malimono, Surigao del Norte police office who received information from Barangay officials of Barangay Masgad in said municipality confiscated recently some fifty tons of copper ores in Sitio Maybog, Barangay Masgad, Malimono, Surigao del Norte.

Malimono police said the copper ores extracted from said place have no corresponding permits from government which prompted them to confiscate it and now temporarily stored at the Multi-Purpose Hall, Brgy. Masgad, Malimono, Surigao del Norte.

Police said one Serafin Estrella, Jr. who claimed ownership of said materials failed to show any legal documents authorizing him to operate or engaged in mining activities.
The said extracted copper ores are set for transport to Cabadbaran City in Agusan del Norte where a local Filipino buyer with foreigner connections are set to buy the copper ores.

Police said the case was already referred to Surigao del Norte Provincial Environment and Mining Office or PEMO.

But small-scale miners requesting not to be identified for fear of their lives who extracted the copper ores for weeks to months and have not yet been paid are complaining alleging why many illegal mining and existence of mini-gold processing plants spewing dangerous toxic materials in Agusan del Sur continue to operate and proliferate unhampered right at the very eyes of authorities.

They also complained why existing mineral ore stockyards and gold ore stockyards and gold ore rod and ball mills found in Placer, Surigao del Norte allegedly continue to operate unhampered. (pia) Read rest of story...

Pitong artista ang kasama sa pinagpipilian ng Lakas-CMD na ilalaban sa 2010 senatorial race, batay sa ipinalabas na “long list" ni Speaker Prospero Nograles nitong Martes.

Sa pahayag, tiyak na umanong makakasama sa 12-man senate slate ng Lakas ang mga reelectionist senators na sina Juan Ponce Enrile, Richard Gordon, Lito Lapid, Ramon 'Bong Revilla Jr., at Miriam Defensor Santiago.

Bukod kina Lapid at Revilla, ang iba pang artista na kasama sa pinagpipilian ay sina Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos, beauty queen Margie Moran Floirendo, Optical Media Board Chairman Edu Manzano, movie actress Dawn Zulueta, at TV host Tito Sotto.

Kasama rin sa listahan ang mga kongresista na sina Reps Ruffy Biazon (Muntinlupa), Mark Cojuangco (Pangasinan), Jack Duavit (Rizal), Monico Fuentevella (Bacolod), Neptali Gonzales Jr. (Mandaluyong), Abraham Mitra (Palawan), Ferdinand Marcos Jr. (Ilocos Norte), Martin Romualdez (Leyte), Rene Velarde (Buhay), Ed Zialcita (Las Pinas) at dating Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr.

Pinagpipilian din ang mga kasapi ng Gabinete na sina Environment Sec. Lito Atienza, Press Secretary Jess Dureza, Health Secretary Francisco Duque, Education Sec. Jesli Lapus, Agrarian Reform Sec. Nasser Pangandaman, Local Government Sec. Ronnie Puno, Energy Sec. Angie Reyes, Defense Sec. Gilberto Teodoro, Agriculture Sec. Arthur Yap, Immigration Commissioner Marcelino Libanan at GSIS General Manager Winston Garcia.

Nasa listahan din sina Surigao del Norte Gov. Ace Barbers, Cebu Gov. Gwen Garcia, Davao del Norte Norte Gov. Rodolfo del Rosario, Camarines Sur Gov. Elray Villafuerte, Cebu Mayor Tommy Osmena, Quezon City Mayor Sonny Belmonte, at Marikina Mayor Marides Fernando.

Ikinukonsidera rin sina dating Rep. Prospero Pichay, dating presidential spokesman Mike Defensor, dating Sens Ralph Recto at Heherson Alvarez.

Sinabi ni Nograles na maaga silang maghahanda upang hindi maulit ang nangyari noong 2007 elections kung saan hindi umano kaagad nila nasala ang kanilang mga kandidatong senador na nakasama sa Team Unity ticket.

Bibigyan din umano ng pagkakataon ang mga nasa mahabang listahan upang palakasin ang kanilang “awareness" at “name-recall" sa publiko. Ang mataas na awareness, acceptability, at winnability ratings ang magiging basehan upang maisama sa 12-man senate ticket, ayon kay Nograles. (GMANews.TV) Read rest of story...

A 4.7. magnitude earthquake was felt in Northern Mindanao Monday afternoon, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Philvolcs) said. The Philvocs branch in Surigao City recorded the earthquake at 2.56 p.m. The quake’s epicenter was located 19 kilometers north, five degrees west of Butuan City.

he epicenter was five kilometers deep, Philvolcs added. The quake was felt in Butuan City at intensity 4; intensity 3 to 2 in parts of Cagayan de Oro City; and intensity 1 in Camiguin. An intensity 2 aftershock was also felt in Butuan City. No damage caused by the quake has been reported. Read rest of story...