Vol. XXIII, Issue 1

January-March 2020

today caraga Official publication of the Caraga Regional Development Council

7|PSR Galero takes oath as Regional Development Council Co-Chairperson 9|Caraga’s poverty incidence declines in 2018

16|Caraga celebrates 2020 Women’s Month

Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Pernia visits Caraga

caraga today Volume XXIII, Issue 1 January-March 2020

On this issue

HIGHLIGHT March is Women’s Month! The Caraga Regional Gender and Development Committee (RGADC) and the Regional Inter-Agency Committee Against Trafficking and Violence Against Women and their Children (RIACAT-VAWC) jointly spearhead various activities in line with this year’s Women’s Month celebration to further raise awareness and consciousness on how enabling policies and work environment can contribute in realizing women’s rights for an equal future.

IN THE NEWS

4 COVER STORY: Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Pernia visits Caraga

11 Caraga commences Regional Budget Review for FY 2021

6 Bayugan City hosts 4th Caraga RTF-ELCAC meeting

12 Caraga Regional Development Council outlines 2019 milestones

8 NEDA Caraga hosts AmBisyon Natin 2040 Forum for young leaders of Agusan High

14 Caraga stakeholders push for more inclusive education for Lumads in conflict-affected areas

10 Round table discussion beefs up Caraga economic situationer 15

NCIP Chairperson Capuyan speaks with IPs, mining companies

10 NEDA Caraga conducts training on writing resolutions

3 Vol. XXIII, Issue 1

Editor’s Note Michelle P. Dela Calzada

Through the years, the Regional Development Council has zeroed in on strategic programs and initiatives towards securing Caraga’s position as the Fishery, Agro-forestry, Mineral and Ecotourism (FAME) Center in the country.

The year 2019 is no different but what makes the year unique for the RDC is the conduct of initiatives that are relevant to the region’s pressing concerns. One is the midterm updating of Caraga Regional Development Plan (RDP) 2017-2022 and its accompanying documents, the Regional Development Investment Program (RDIP) and Results Matrices (RM).

It is an even more exciting year for the RDC as we welcome a new Chairperson and Co-chairperson, in the persons of Governor Dale B. Corvera of Agusan del Norte and Private Sector Representative for Logistics Engr. Epimaco M. Galero, Jr., respectively.

These are just among the milestones of the Caraga RDC in 2019 as revealed in our article on page 12.

For 2020, the RDC continues to make meaningful endeavors and set trailblazing initiatives.

One of the RDC’s functions is to review the budget proposals of regional line agencies (RLAs) and state universities and colleges and ensure that programs and projects essential to the attainment of national and regional goals are allocated with adequate funds. We feature a story on the budget

review process for FY 2021 in this issue on page 11.

A special feature on this issue is a story on Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto M. Pernia’s first visit to Caraga in February 2020.

Also on this issue, we feature the conduct of the 4th Caraga Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) meeting in Bayugan City. Another article features the round table discussion on the preparation of the Caraga Regional Economic Situationer held in January 2020.

Also at the start of 2020, a training on writing resolutions was held for RDC members and its secretariat. Our story on this activity can be found on page 10. Meanwhile, fresh news on the inclusive education for Lumads in conflict-affected areas is featured on page 14.

The RDC started with purposive activities, bringing renewed hope and vigor for the rest of the year.

ON THE COVER Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto M. Pernia visited NEDA Caraga and the proposed sites of big ticket infrastructure projects in Butuan City and Agusan del Norte.

4 caraga today 4 caraga today

Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto M. Pernia paid his first visit to the region and the Caraga Regional Office of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) last February 18, 2020. NEDA Assistant Secretary Mercedita A. Sombilla (Regional Development Group) and Director Aladin A. Ancheta (Office of the Secretary) joined Secretary Pernia on his visit.

Among the highlights of the Secretary’s visit was the meeting with Butuan City Mayor Ronnie Vicente C. Lagnada wherein he presented to the Secretary the proposed strategic infrastructure projects of the City. Among the proposed projects presented was the Integrated Intermodal

Transport System (sea, land and air), which is incorporated in the ongoing NEDA-funded Master Plan for Sustainable Urban Infrastructure Development (MPSUID) Project for Butuan City. Secretary Pernia also took time to check the coastal areas where the Iconic Bridge is proposed, which is a component of the planned logistical highway, as well as the proposed site of the Masao International Seaport. The Secretary also had a small group meeting over dinner with the Chairperson of the Caraga Regional Development Council (RDC) and NEDA Board - Regional Development Committee Mindanao Area Committee (RDCOM MAC) and Agusan del Norte Provincial

Governor Dale B. Corvera, Caraga RDC Co-Chairperson and Private Sector Representative for the Logistics Sector Engr. Epimaco M. Galero, and Mayor Lagnada. During said meeting, the officials discussed the harmonization of regional and local plans, overall future directions of Butuan City and Caraga Region, as well as the possibility of gearing towards a knowledge-based economy in the region.

Secretary Pernia and party also visited the Butuan Archeological Park to explore the historical Balanghai boats, which are declared as a National Culture Treasure. The NEDA Caraga staff also had a very meaningful

Cover Story:

Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Pernia visits Caraga By Xylia G. Ebron, NEDA Caraga

Left photo: Mayor Ronnie Vicente C. Lagnada presenting the Integrated Intermodal Transport System Plan to NEDA Secretary Ernesto M. Pernia and NEDA Caraga Regional Director Atty. Bonifacio G. Uy. Right Photo: Onboard a speedboat while conducting an ocular inspection for the proposed Iconic Bridge connecting Butuan City to Magallanes, Agusan del Norte.

5 Vol. XXIII, Issue 1 Vol. XXIII, Issue 1

opportunity to spend time with the Secretary over a fellowship meeting. During the said meeting, NEDA Regional Director Atty. Bonifacio G. Uy warmly welcomed Secretary Pernia to the region and gave a short story about the region’s comparative advantages and priorities. NEDA Caraga’s latest initiatives and priorities needing the Secretary’s support was also presented. The said meeting was a timely opportunity for the NEDA Caraga staff to openly ask the Secretary concerning work-related questions and concerns.

In his message, Secretary Pernia conveyed his commitment to create more opportunities, in the form of promotions and travels, which will support the growth and development of the NEDA staff. He also provided updates on the NEDA Bill, which aims to further institutionalize and empower the agency to fully carry out its mandate.

The NEDA Regional Office Caraga staff take a photo with Secretary Ernesto M. Pernia, Assistant Secretary Mercedita A. Sombilla and Director Aladin A. Ancheta.

Small group dinner meeting with the Chairperson of the Caraga Regional Development Council and NEDA Board - Regional Development Committee Mindanao Area Committee and Agusan del Norte Provincial Governor Dale B. Corvera, Caraga RDC Co-Chairperson and Private Sector Representative for the Logistics Sector Engr. Epimaco M.

Galero, Jr.

6 caraga today

Members of the Caraga Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) converged for the 4th Caraga RTF-ELCAC Meeting last January 23, 2020 at the Lope A. Asis Memorial Gymnasium, Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur. Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security (CORDS) for Caraga Region and Caraga RTF-ELCAC Chairperson, Cabinet Secretary (CabSec) Karlo A.B. Nograles, presided over the meeting.

Present during the meeting were Cabinet Secretariat Undersecretary Jo Ann M. Burgos; Caraga RTF-ELCAC Co-Vice Chairperson, Caraga RDC Chairperson and Agusan del

Unveiling of the prototype of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) halfway houses. From left to right: Governor Dale B. Corvera; Governor Santiago B. Cane, Jr.; Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Caraga Regional Director Lilibeth A. Famacion; CabSec Karlo A.B. Nograles; RPOC Chairperson and Surigao del Sur Governor Alexander T. Pimentel; Caraga RTF-ELCAC TWG Co-Vice Chairperson and Commanding Officer of the 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army (4th ID, PA) MGen Franco Nemesio M. Gacal; and Adviser to CORDS and Philippine National Police (PNP) Caraga Regional Director PBGen Joselito T. Esquivel, Jr.

Norte Provincial Governor Dale B. Corvera; Caraga RTF-ELCAC Co-Vice Chairperson, Caraga Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) Chairperson and Surigao del Sur Provincial Governor Alexander T. Pimentel; and the chief executives of the host province and city, Agusan del Sur Provincial Governor Santiago B. Cane, Jr. and Bayugan City Mayor Kirk A. Asis.

The highlights of the meeting included, among others, the unveiling of the prototype of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) halfway houses in Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Norte; the approval of resolutions supporting

the immediate closure of the Tribal Filipino Program of Surigao del Sur (TRIFPSS) and Alternative Learning Center for Agricultural and Livelihood Development (ALCADEV) schools; inclusion and prioritization of programs, projects, and activities (PPAs) for the National Task Force (NTF)-ELCAC and RTF-ELCAC-identified geographically isolated, disadvantaged, and conflict-affected areas in the FY 2021 agency budget proposals; and the 25th Founding Anniversary Celebration of Caraga Region Cum Launching of the Caraga Regional Development Plan (RDP) 2017-2022 Midterm Update .

CabSec Nograles recognized the commitment and active involvement of the members to the task force and encouraged everyone to endeavor the attainment of inclusive and sustainable peace in the region. He also stressed the urgency to close the TRIFPSS and ALCADEV schools in the region, which are not legally accredited by the Department of Education. Moreover, he urged the regional line agencies (RLAs) to accelerate the implementation of PPAs for 2020 and include in their respective FY 2021 agency budget proposals the PPAs for the identified priority barangays of the NTF and RTF-ELCAC.

Prior to the meeting, the City Government of Bayugan and the Provincial Government of Agusan del Sur conducted a Peace Caravan in Barangay Mt. Carmel,

Bayugan City hosts 4th Caraga RTF-ELCAC meeting By Amethyst Joy A. Galos, NEDA Caraga

7 Vol. XXIII, Issue 1

Engr. Epimaco M. Galero, Jr., Caraga Regional Development Council (RDC) – Infrastructure Development Committee (IDC) Co-Chairperson and Private Sector Representative (PSR) for Logistics Sector, is the newly-appointed Caraga RDC Co-Chairperson for the 2020-2022 term of office. RDC Co-Chairperson Galero took his oath of office before President Rodrigo Roa Duterte at the Malacañan Palace, Manila on February 6, 2020.

PSR Galero was nominated as Caraga RDC Co-Chairperson for the present term during the Council’s reorganizational meeting held last August 23, 2019 in Butuan City. Previously, he held the same position in the Caraga RDC from 1998 to 2001. He was also actively involved as a PSR to the Caraga RDC from 1998 to 2001 and from 2013 to present. Moreover, he served as the Caraga RDC-IDC Chairperson from 2016 to 2019 and was selected to co-chair the

same committee for the current term of office.

PSR Galero will work closely with Caraga RDC Chairperson, Agusan del Norte Provincial Governor Dale B. Corvera, in setting and steering the Region’s development directions as it positions itself to become the fishery, agro-forestry, mineral, and ecotourism (FAME) center of the country in 2022.

PSR Galero takes oath as Regional Development Council Co-Chairperson By Amethyst Joy A. Galos , NEDA Caraga

Caraga RDC Co-Chairperson, PSR Epimaco M. Galero, Jr. (second from left, back row) takes oath of office before President Rodrigo Roa Duterte together with the other newly-appointed government officials. Photo taken from the Radio Television Malacañan.

Bayugan City, which was participated in by various RLAs such as the Department of Agriculture, Department of Agrarian Reform, Department of Health, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Philippine National Police, and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority. The caravan brought to the local community free services such as medical check-up, medicines, haircut, distribution of seeds, and

orientation on government programs, among others.

During the caravan, the community of Barangay Mt. Carmel identified the concreting of National Road Junction Sta. Teresa – Mt. Carmel – Osmeña Road, as their most pressing concern that should be addressed by the government. In response, CabSec Nograles affirmed his commitment to implement the said road project.

PPAs to address the root

causes of insurgencies, internal disturbances and tensions, and other armed conflicts in pursuit of inclusive and sustainable peace and development in the region were also presented during the caravan.

The 5th Caraga RTF-ELCAC meeting will be hosted by the LGU of Butuan City in March 2020.

8 caraga today

The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) presented the AmBisyon Natin 2040 in a forum for 330 senior high students and teachers of the Agusan National High School (ANHS) on February 13, 2020 at the NEDA Conference Hall in Butuan City.

In his welcome message, NEDA Regional Director, Atty. Bonifacio G. Uy, inspired the future young leaders to give their best in school to better prepare themselves when they eventually join the labor force. He also encouraged the teachers to be good examples and provide careful guidance to their students in choosing a career path and in honing their skills and talents. He expressed his gratitude for ANHS’ partnership with NEDA and gave his assurance of the agency’s strong support to the acceleration of human capital development.

During the said forum, NEDA Senior Economic Development Specialist (EDS) Ms. Rhea Mae C. Mendez imparted that the AmBisyon Natin represents the collective long-term vision (LTV) and aspirations of the Filipino people for themselves and for the country by 2040. The LTV describes the kind of life that Filipinos want to live, and the kind of country and government they want to have. In summary, Filipinos simply want a matatag, maginhawa at panatag na buhay para sa lahat. This LTV will serve as an anchor for development planning processes across four (4) administrations starting in 2015.

With this, NEDA Acting Chief EDS, Ms. Melanie A. Maur, presented the ways and means of realizing the LTV by presenting the bedrock and main strategies embodied in the Philippine Development Plan 2017-2020 Midterm Update and the Caraga Regional Development Plan. Ms. Maur highlighted that Caraga has a lot to contribute to the achievement of the LTV beginning with the region’s competitive advantage of abundant natural resources in the field of fishery, agro-forestry, mineral, and eco-tourism, and its resilient and competitive human capital. She emphasized that Caraganons

need to overcome development challenges such as high poverty incidence, climatological and geological hazards, and armed conflict in some areas.

Both resource persons emphasized that every Caraganon has a stake in the achievement of the AmBisyon Natin 2040, as well as the goals inscribed in the national and regional development plans. They encouraged the students to contribute to the achievement of the LTV by making use of their talents and skills to become productive, rather than reproductive members of the society.

The AmBisyon Natin 2040 Forum was part of the 2nd Accountancy, Business and Management (ABM) Week Celebration of ANHS, in line with the theme, “Creativity and Innovation: Key of Global Entrepreneurs in the 21st Century.” It aims to create awareness and deeper appreciation on the AmBisyon Natin 2040 among students, and allow them to determine the areas where they can better contribute to the attainment of the LTV as well as the goals of the region.

The ABM Week aimed to provide avenues that can showcase the students’ creativity, enhance their entrepreneurial capabilities, and draw their potentials in the field of business. It also aimed to provide a venue to impart ideas, knowledge, and skills through experiential learning and continued support of partners in education and skills development.

NEDA Caraga hosts AmBisyon Natin 2040 Forum for young leaders of Agusan High By Rhea Mae C. Mendez, NEDA Caraga

A section of grade 12 ANHS students poses with the resource persons and their teachers during the AmBisyon Natin 2040 Forum.

NEDA Caraga Regional Director Atty. Bonifacio G. Uy addresses the young leaders and teachers of Agusan National High School during the AmBisyon Natin 2040 Forum, inspiring them to become well-capacitated and productive members of the labor force or business sector.

9 Vol. XXIII, Issue 1

The full year 2018 poverty incidence among population for Caraga Region displayed an improvement of 9.0 percentage points from the 2015 figure of 39.5 percent.

The 30.5 poverty incidence among population for the full year of 2018 released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), roughly translates to 822,800 Caraganons living below the poverty threshold estimated at PhP11,482.00, on average per month, for a family of five (5). This implies that 192,200 Caraganons have been lifted from poverty compared to what was recorded in 2015.

Caraga Region also experienced improvement in terms of subsistence incidence among population or proportion of Caraganons, whose income is not enough to meet even the basic food needs. This is an improvement of 7.1 percentage points from 17.3 percent in 2015. The region’s monthly food threshold for a family of five (5) was estimated, on average, at PhP 7,349.00.

However, despite the decline in figures, Caraga Region’s poverty incidence among population of 30.5 percent is still relatively high compared to the country’s poverty estimates of 16.6 percent in 2018. Among other regions, Caraga ranks as the 4th poorest region following Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) with 61.3 percent; Zamboanga Peninsula with 32.7 percent; and Eastern Visayas with 30.9 percent. Among the regions in Mindanao, Caraga ranks third poorest following BARMM and Zamboanga Peninsula while SOCCSKSARGEN (South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and General Santos) ranks fourth poorest with 28.2 percent, followed by Northern Mindanao Region with 23.0 percent and Davao Region with 18.9 percent.

On a positive note, the 2018 poverty and subsistence incidence among population of 30.5 percent and 10.2 percent, respectively, exceeded the targets set in the Caraga Results

Matrices 2017-2022 Midterm Update, the accompanying document of the Caraga Regional Development Plan 2020-2022 Midterm Update, which targeted 34 percent for poverty incidence and 13.15 percent for subsistence incidence in 2018. Such positive results indicate that the region is on track in achieving the poverty targets set in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) of reducing by half the proportion of population living in poverty and eradicating extreme poverty for all by 2030.

Caraga’s poverty incidence declines in 2018 By Paul Edward B. Castillo , NEDA Caraga

6.8 % points 5.0 % points

Source: Philippine Statistics Authority - Caraga

10 caraga today

The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Caraga conducted a round table discussion (RTD) with key industry players in the region for the Q3 2019 Regional Economic Situationer (RES) on February 7, 2020 at the NEDA Regional Office Conference Hall.

Said activity was designed to validate and generate additional inputs on the region’s economic performance for the first three (3) quarters of 2019 and gather recommendations to

enhance the preparation of the succeeding RES. Moreover, the RTD was aimed at generating timely submission of inputs for the judicious publication and reporting of the region’s economic performance.

In his opening message, NEDA Caraga Regional Director Atty. Bonifacio G. Uy assured the participants that NEDA will continue to provide accurate and most recent data on the region’s economic performance. These data will serve as

basis for informed decisions and in the formulation of plans and policies. Highlights of the activity revolved around the region’s year-on-year economic performance for the three (3) quarters of 2019, and the desired support from various stakeholders for the accurate and timely publication and reporting of the RES.

Participants of the said event are the Caraga Regional Development Council – Private Sector Representatives (RDC-PSRs) for the business sector, mining, agriculture, fishery, and wood industries. Also present were representatives from various regional line agencies, local government units, and RDC-recognized industry clusters in the region.

Round table discussion beefs up Caraga economic situationer By Jeah M. Tejam, OJT , NEDA Caraga

The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Caraga organized a one-day Training on Resolution Writing on January 17, 2020 at the NEDA Caraga Conference Hall in Butuan City. Seventy-two participants from NEDA Caraga, provincial, city, and municipal planning and development offices of

local government units, state universities and colleges, and regional line agencies joined the training. Regional Director Milagros A. Rimando of NEDA Cordillera Administrative Region served as the resource person.

During his message, NEDA Caraga RD Atty. Bonifacio G. Uy said

that the training is essential not only for the technical staff but also for the administrative staff who provide secretariat support to various internal committees of the office. RD Uy also cited the Implementing Rules and Regulations of Executive Order No. 325, Series of 1996, highlighting one of the important duties and responsibilities of the secretariat in the Regional Development Council, which is the preparation and/or review of the council resolutions. Considering the work demands in NEDA, RD Uy emphasized that the skill on writing resolutions need to be developed and mastered.

RD Rimando discussed the processes and stages in writing resolutions. She also shared some tips in writing and formatting resolutions. After the lecture, a workshop was conducted where each group was tasked to scrutinize a given resolution.

RD Rimando was commended for sharing her expertise in writing resolutions. The training concluded with OIC-ARD Francisco Romulus C. Villanueva thanking everyone for their active participation. He also thanked RD Uy for prioritizing the conduct of the said training which gave the participants the opportunity to hone their writing skills.

NEDA Caraga conducts training on writing resolutions By Donabelle A. Bonghanoy , NEDA Caraga

Training participants with NEDA CAR RD Milagros A. Rimando (seated, fourth from left), NEDA Caraga RD Atty. Bonifacio G. Uy (seated, fifth from left) and NEDA Caraga OIC-ARD Francisco Romulus C. Villanueva (seated, third from left).

11 Vol. XXIII, Issue 1

More than 200 participants, composed of heads of offices, technical staff, budget and planning officers, from 38 agency regional offices (AROs) and five (5) state universities and colleges (SUCs) in the region gathered during the FY 2021 Agency Budget Preparation Forum jointly conducted by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) on January 20, 2020 held at the NEDA Conference Hall, Butuan City.

The annual forum aimed to orient the participants with the FY 2021 budget process as laid down in the National Budget Memorandum (NBM) No. 133 issued by the DBM on November 29, 2019, and the RDC Review Guidelines on Priority Programs and Projects for inclusion in the FY 2021 Annual Investment Program (AIP) and Budget Proposals as approved by the RDC through Caraga RDC Resolution No. 38, Series of 2019

During his opening remarks, DBM Caraga Regional Director Gary R. Martel highlighted the joint efforts of the DBM and NEDA in strengthening the vertical and horizontal linkages on planning, investment programming and budgeting. Relatedly, he explained the national government’s shift to the Cash-based Budgeting System, which is on transition stage. He urged the AROs and SUCs to ensure the implementation readiness of the proposed programs, projects, and activities (PPAs) included in their respective budget proposals for FY 2021, as well as submit strong justifications to ensure approval of said proposals.

NEDA Regional Director and Caraga RDC Vice-Chairperson, Atty. Bonifacio G. Uy, emphasized in his opening message the major considerations that would warrant the endorsements of the RDC Sectoral Committees and the RDC Full Council of the FY 2021 Agency Budget Proposals. He appealed to the AROs

and SUCs to be more aggressive, proactive and deliberate in identifying critical/significant PPAs that are responsive to the region’s major development thrusts and priorities as enshrined in the Caraga Regional Development Plan (RDP) 2017-2022 Midterm Update, such as but not limited to the following: a) PPAs that are supportive of the sustainable development and management of the fishery, agriculture, forestry, mining, and ecotourism (FAME) industries; b) promote inclusive development and the reduction of poverty, particularly among the vulnerable groups/sectors; c) address peace and security-related concerns of the region, particularly contributing to the elimination of armed conflict/insurgency in conflict-affected barangays; and d) strengthen the region’s resiliency to natural hazards and ensure ecological integrity and a healthy environment.

Key discussions during the forum revolved around the salient features of the NBM No. 133, particularly on Budget Preparation (BP) Forms, considerations in the preparation of Tier 1 and Tier 2 budget proposals, the budget preparation’s calendar of activities; and, the RDC Budget Review Guidelines on FY 2021 Agency Budget Proposals and prescribed forms.

Caraga State University (CSU) President Dr. Anthony M. Penaso, shared during the forum the university’s approaches and best practices that resulted in generating higher budget allocations. Over the past several years, the CSU generated increasing budget allocations. In fact, the SUC ranked 3rd among the country’s SUCs with high approved budget for capital outlay in FY 2020.

The activity was officially closed by NEDA OIC-Assistant Regional Director Francisco Romulus C. Villanueva by asserting the call of RD Uy for a more focused and deliberate identification of programs and projects for the region as he added, “With the help of our Almighty Father, we must all work together, as ONE region, as ONE Caraga to achieve a matatag, maginhawa, at panatag na buhay for the Caraganons!”

Caraga commences Regional Budget Review for FY 2021 By Gladys C. Giberson, NEDA Caraga

DBM Regional Director Gary R. Martel (left) and NEDA Regional Director Atty. Bonifacio G. Uy (right) deliver the opening remarks and messages, respectively.

12 caraga today

The year 2019 was of notable milestones for the Caraga Regional Development Council (RDC). Not only did the Council conduct its planned activities for the period but it also achieved significant milestones in the pursuit of peace and development through policies and in helping address the pressing issues in the region. Among the Caraga RDC’s major achievements for 2019 are as follows: Smooth leadership transition following the 2019 Philippine Midterm Elections: The Council facilitated the smooth turnover of Caraga RDC Chairpersonship from Surigao del Norte Provincial Governor Sol F. Matugas to Agusan del Norte Provincial Governor Dale B. Corvera. Last October 17, 2019, President Duterte appointed Governor Corvera as the Caraga RDC Chairperson for the 2019-2022 term of office, who took oath on October 28, 2019 at the Malacaňan Palace. Meanwhile, Engr. Epimaco M. Galero Jr., RDC - Infrastructure Development Committee (IDC) Co-Chairperson and Private

Sector Representative (PSR) for the Logistics Sector was also appointed by President Duterte on January 30, 2020, as the Caraga RDC Co-Chairperson for the 2020-2022 term of office.

The Council likewise elected chairs and co-chairs for the four (4) RDC sectoral committees, namely: Surigao City Mayor Ernesto U. Matugas, Jr. (Chair) and PSR for Education Ms. Pazfegurita M. Ojeda (Co-Chair) for the Development Administration Committee (RDC-DAC); Province of Dinagat Islands Governor Arlene J. Bag-ao (Chair) and PSR for Mineral Sector Leonel A. Santos (Co-Chair) for the Economic Development Committee (RDC-EDC); Bayugan City Mayor Kirk A. Asis (Chair) and PSR for Basic Sector Ms. Concepcion C. Asis (Co-Chair) for the Social Development Committee (RDC-SDC); and Agusan del Sur Governor Santiago B. Cane, Jr. (Chair) and PSR for Logistics Sector Engr. Epimaco M. Galero, Jr. (Co-chair) for the Infrastructure Development Committee (RDC-IDC).

by Gemeniano B. Crisante, Jr., NEDA Caraga

Caraga Regional Development Council outlines 2019 milestones

Complete execution of its scheduled and planned quarterly meetings: The Council carried out all of its regular and scheduled quarterly Full Council Meetings, plus an additional special meeting for the year. Through the conduct of such meetings, the Council was able to pass a total of 131 resolutions. The breakdown of such resolutions, in terms of their origin, are as follows:

RDC-Development Administration Committee: 25 (19.08%) RDC-Economic Development Committee: 24 (18.32%) RDC Full Council Plenary: 23 (17.56%) RDC-Infrastructure Development Committee: 20 (15.27%) RDC-Social Development Committee: 19 (14.50%) Regional Land Use Committee: 4 (3.05%) Regional Project Monitoring Committee: 8 (6.11%) Others: 8 (6.11%).

13 Vol. XXIII, Issue 1

The Council also reached quorum across all its meetings, which in turn facilitated the effective discussion and creation of the said resolutions which span across various regional issues and concerns. As part of the highlights of the said meetings, the Council welcomed Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, who conveyed during the 97th (1st Quarter 2019) RDC Full Council Meeting last March 14, 2019 in Butuan City, his support to the region’s developmental goals and aspirations. Likewise, House of Representatives Deputy Speaker and Surigao del Sur First District Representative Prospero A. Pichay, Jr. attended the 99th (4th Quarter 2019) RDC Full Council Meeting last October 8, 2019 in Butuan City, wherein he provided his insights as to what could be done to overcome the region’s pressing agricultural challenges. Early completion and prompt adoption of the Caraga Regional Development Plan (RDP) 2017-2022 Midterm Update and its accompanying documents: The Council enabled the timely preparation, finalization, and adoption of the Caraga RDP 2017-2022 Midterm Update and its accompanying planning documents – the Regional Development Investment Program (RDIP) and the Results Matrices (RMs). The Caraga RDC passed Resolution No. 37, Series of 2019, entitled “Approving the Draft Midterm Updated Caraga Regional Development Plan 2020-2022 and the Updated Caraga Results Matrices 2020-2022” during its 99th Full Council Meeting last October 2019. It subsequently passed Caraga RDC Resolution No. 49, Series of 2019, entitled “Approving and Endorsing the Caraga Regional Development Investment Program (RDIP) 2017-2022 Midterm Update, FY 2021-2022 Investment Program for Geographically-Isolated, Disadvantaged and Conflict-Affected Areas (GIDCAs) and FY 2021 Annual Investment Program (AIP)” during its 100th Full Council Meeting held last November 27, 2019 in Butuan City. Instrumental to the early completion and adoption of the Caraga RDP 2017-2022 Midterm Update and its related documents was the consistent support of the Council members, particularly in the convening of the Regional Planning Committees (RPCs), which commenced last June 3, 2019. The convening of the RPCs was made more substantial and meaningful with the Regional Directors (RDs) of regional line agencies (RLAs)

convening the Planning Subcommittees which they chair: Department of Environment and Natural Resources Regional Executive Director Atty. Felix S. Alicer as chairperson for the Planning Committees on Forestry, Mining Development, and Ecological Integrity; Department of Trade and Industry RD Brielgo O. Pagaran as chairperson for the Planning Committee on Trade, Industry and Services; and Department of Science and Technology Assistant RD Ricardo N. Varela as chairperson for the Planning Committee on Technology and Innovation. In entirety, fourteen (14) RPCs and Subcommittees proceeded with their respective sectoral planning activities. Timely endorsement of FY 2020 agency and SUC budgets: The Caraga RDC endorsed a total proposed budget of PhP 124.7 Billion for FY 2020, which was submitted by 38 RLAs and SUCs. The endorsed amount is more than twice than the approved budget for Caraga based on the 2019 National Expenditure Program. Among the FY 2020 proposed budgets, the Infrastructure Development sector still has the largest share at PhP 67 Billion followed by the Social Development sector at PhP 47.6 Billion, while the Economic Development and Development Administration sectors comprise the remaining PhP 9.9 Billion. The RDC also endorsed programs and projects worth PhP 4.6 Billion for the Peace and Development Zones (PDZ), the region’s banner program in combating insurgency. Strategic shift from geographic to sectoral representation of PSRs to the Council: To better align the pr ivate sector’s representation to the Council with the region’s developmental thrusts, the Caraga RDC passed Resolution No. 11-D, series of 2019, entitled “Approving the Selection Guidelines for a Sectoral Composition of the RDC-Private Sector Representatives (PSRs) for 2019-2022 Term of Office” during its 97th Full Council meeting. The following are the new set of PSRs for the 2019-2022 term of office: (1) Ms. Concepcion C. Asis (People Power Volunteers for Reform- Caraga, Inc.), Basic Sector; (2) Ms. Concepcion R. Paqueo (Surigao Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc.), Business Sector; (3) Ms. Christine H. Ampon (Sibog Katawhan Alang Sa Paglambo, Inc.), Development Administration

Sector; (4) Mr. Robert Douglas O. Andaya (Balik Kultura Caraga, Inc.), Ecotourism Sector; (5) Ms. Pazfegurita M. Ojeda (Rizalian Association of Mercy, Inc. – Love Always Means Benignity), Education Sector; (6) Mr. Rho Cougee C. Garrido (Mangagoy Fishermen Multi-Purpose Cooperative), Fishery Sector; (7) Mr. Kirby C. Go (Butuan City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc.), Forestry Sector; (8) Ms. Lilia B. Augis (Caraga Regional Barangay Health Workers Federation, Inc.), Health Sector; (9) Mr. Samuel B. Behing (Wawa Sectoral Tribal Council), Indigenous Peoples Sector; (10) Mr. Rosauro O. Pepito (Associated Labor Unions – Trade Union Congress of The Philippines), Labor Sector; (11) Engr. Epimaco M. Galero, Jr. (Foundation for Rural Enterprise and Ecology Development of Mindanao, Inc.), Logistics Sector; (12) Engr. Leonel A. Santos (Surigao Economic Development and Microfinance Foundation, Inc.), Mineral Sector; and (13) Mr. Vivencio P. Ocite Jr. (VPO Foundation Inc.), Agriculture Sector. Meanwhile, the selection of PSR for the environment sector will be undertaken this 2020. Strong support to the President’s action against insurgency and local armed conflict: The Council extended its full support to the localization of Executive Order (EO) No. 70, Series of 2018, entitled “Institutionalizing the Whole-of-Nation Approach in Attaining Inclusive and Sustainable Peace, Creating a National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, and Directing the Adoption of a National Peace Framework” at the regional level. Specifically, the Council was actively engaged in the organization and the operations of the Caraga Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC), which is led by Cabinet Secretary Karlo A. B. Nograles, the Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security (CORDS) for Caraga Region. The Council actively participated across the three (3) Caraga RTF-ELCAC meetings, which were conducted in Butuan City (June 26, 2019), Surigao City (August 27, 2019), and Tandag City (October 23, 2019). Caraga RDC looks forward to accomplish another level of milestones as it enters 2020.

14 caraga today

Regional Peace and Order Council Chairperson and Surigao del Sur Governor Alexander T. Pimentel and Regional Development Council-Social Development Committee (RDC-SDC) Chairperson and Bayugan City Mayor Kirk A. Asis together with Department of Education (DepEd) Caraga Regional Director Francis Cesar B. Bringas visited the proposed location of DepEd schools for lumad communities in the municipalities of Lianga and Marihatag in Surigao del Sur on March 2, 2020.

Lianga Mayor Novelita Sarmen, Marihatag Mayor Marc Justine Pelenio, Lianga Indigenous Peoples Council Officials, Barangay Officials, and representatives from Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police and NEDA as Co-Secretariat of the Caraga Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) joined the ocular visit to the two (2) school sites in

Kilometer 9, Barangay Diatagon, Lianga, Surigao del Sur and Sitio Lucnodon, Barangay Mahaba, Marihatag, Surigao del Sur. The visit was aimed at ensuring access to quality education for lumad learners while expediting the closure of non-DepEd accredited schools.

“We will build DepEd schools in the eleven (11) identified sites including Kilometer 9 and Sitio Lucnodon under the Last Mile Schools (LMS) Program,” said Director Bringas. The LMS program aims to address the gaps in resources and facilities of schools that are located in geographically isolated, disadvantaged and conflict-affected areas (GIDCAs).

“We need at most one (1) year to secure the licensing requirements of new DepEd schools and while waiting for that, the immediate need is to construct makeshift schools ready to open this June 2020,” he added.

In the meeting that followed,

Governor Pimentel pledged for cost sharing between the Provincial local government unit (LGU) of Surigao del Sur and the Municipal LGUs of Lianga and Marihatag to cover the building cost and operational expenses of the proposed schools. Given the security concern in these areas, the 544th Engineering Battalion of the AFP shall take the lead in constructing the schools starting March 23, 2020.

These two (2) areas are part of the eleven (11) communities where non-DepEd accredited schools named Alternative Learning Center for Agricultural and Livelihood Development (ALCADEV) and the Tribal Filipino Program of Surigao del Sur (TRIFPSS) have been operating since 2004. After thorough investigation and series of consultations, the Caraga RTF-ELCAC requested for permanent closure of these schools which refused to be accredited by the DepEd.

Left Photo: Stakeholders led by RPOC Chairperson and Surigao del Sur Governor Alexander T. Pimentel visit the Lumad communities in conflict-affected areas in the Municipalities in Lianga and Marihatag. Right photo: Governor Pimentel discusses with local officials plans to operationalize make-shift schools.

Caraga stakeholders push for more inclusive education for Lumads in conflict-affected areas By Hazel O. Fuentes, NEDA Caraga

15 Vol. XXIII, Issue 1

Colophon Edition Caraga Today Volume XXIII, Issue 1 January-March 2020 Publisher Caraga Regional Development Council Address NEDA Caraga Building J Rosales Avenue, Butuan City 8600 Telephone 085 815-1183; 085 815-0308 Website nro13.neda.gov.ph Email nro13@neda.gov.ph Online Versions issuu.com/nedacaraga slideshare.net/NEDACaraga13 Editor-in-Chief Michelle P. Dela Calzada Associate Editor Melanie A. Maur Managing & Lay-out Editor Rhea Mae C. Mendez Writers Hazel O. Fuentes Paul Edward B. Castillo Gemeniano B. Crisante, Jr. Donabelle A. Bonghanoy Xylia G. Ebron Amethyst Joy A. Galos Gladys C. Giberson Rhea Mae C. Mendez Jeah M. Tejam Advisers RD Bonifacio G. Uy OIC-ARD F. Romulus C. Villanueva

"Progress in the country cannot be sustained without providing lasting solution to issues experienced by the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) and we can start resolving these issues by being transparent to one another," National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Chairperson Allen Capuyan said during the start of the Infrastructure and Resource Management Cluster Meeting with Mining Companies and Tribal Leaders in line with Executive Order No. 70, Series of 2018 on March 5, 2020 at the Convention Hall, Balanghai Hotel, Butuan City.

EO 70 institutionalizes the whole-of-nation approach to end local communist armed conflict with the creation of a national and regional task force. Chairperson Capuyan, who is also National Task Force to End

Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) Executive Director, added that “insurgency is not a military concern; it is a political problem which requires a political solution for a whole-of-nation approach that should involve the private and public sector.”

About 120 participants from the regional line agencies, local government units, NCIP officials, and representatives from the twelve (12) mining companies together with Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title holders attended the meeting. Further, the meeting paved the way for a dialogue between the IPs and mining companies to talk about the issues on royalty share that caused long standing dispute among indigenous cultural communities.

By Hazel O. Fuentes, NEDA Caraga

Left Photo: NCIP Chairperson and National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) Executive Director Allen Capuyan speaks before the members of the Regional Task Force-ELCAC, representatives from the mining companies and Indigenous Peoples (IP). Right photo: An IP representative voices out issues on royalty share which has caused disputes among IPs.

NCIP Chairperson Capuyan speaks with IPs, mining companies

16 caraga today

Caraga celebrates 2020 Women ’s Month

THEME The National Women’s Month (NWM) celebration theme for 2017 to 2022 “We Make Change Work for Women” highlights the empowerment of women as active contributors to and claimholders of development. This pursuit of development is also anchored on the commitment of “Malasakit at Pagbabago” or True Compassion and Real Change. ELEMENTS OF THE THEME

• We stands for Women’ Empowerment – empowering women enables them to confidently and meaningfully engage with appropriate institutions to ensure that they contribute to and benefit from development and changes. Thus, women’s empowerment will make the change that we are espousing or any development effort responsive of women’s concerns. • Make Change Work = MCW = Magna Carta of Women – making change work for women necessitates strengthening the implementation of the MCW at all levels. It means putting in place functional mechanisms as well as implementing and making known to citizens, programs and services that address strategic gender needs of women. • Change – also means Compassionate and Harmonized Actions and Networks for Gender Equality. • We / us or “kami / tayo” in Filipino – who is going to pave the way for an enabling environment for women to be empowered? Who is going to ensure that the MCW is implemented at all levels? Who is going to make change work for women? It all of us, in our various capacities whether as government officials and employees, members of the private sector, the academe, non-government organizations, or as private individuals can be partners for a change that is gender-responsive. It emphasizes our collective effort, collaboration and participation to ensure that women will not be left behind in the pursuit of change.

REGIONAL CELEBRATION The Regional Gender and Development Committee enjoins the full participation of all regional line agencies, local government units, state universities and colleges and civil society organizations by posting the 2020 NWM tarp, wearing the advocacy shirt, and conduct their respective activities. Kindly see the Philippine Commission on Women ‘s website www.pcw.gov.ph/event/2020-national-women-month for guidance.

Schedule of Activities

March 2, 2020 Kick-Off Activity Venue: Guingona Park, Butuan City Press Conference Venue: Deped Caraga Conference Room March 9, 2020 Women’s Summit: “Strengthening Climate Action by Promoting Gender Equality” Venue: Grand Palace Hotel, Butuan City March 16-20, 2020 “Sinina Ko, Pagbuot Ko!” Exhibit Venue: The Atrium, Robinson’s Place, Butuan City March 1-31, 2020 Purple Up Corner Set up your purple corner to heighten awareness on the promotion, protection and fulfillment of women’s rights.

Excerpt from the Philippine Commission on Women website