18|2020 Third Quarter Regional Economic Situationer 22|2020 Third Quarter Regional Project Monitoring Report

October-December 2020 Vol. XXIII, Issue 4

todayOfficial publication of the Caraga Regional Development Council

Balik Probinsya, Bagong Pag-Asa Committee Prepares Regional Action Plan caraga today Volume XXIII, Issue 4 October-December 2020

On this issue

HIGHLIGHT In relation to our cover story, we highlight the Regional Action Plan Development Framework of the Balik Probinsya, Bagong Pag-Asa (BP2) Program. The BP2 Development Framework is illustrated in page 5 which features six (6) key result areas in the program implementation, namely: Empowerment of Local Industries; Food Security and Agricultural Productivity; Housing, Social Welfare, Health, Employment, and Human Resource Development; Infrastructure Development; Strategic Communication; and Governance and Assistance to Relocatees.

IN THE NEWS COVER STORY: Balik Probinsya, Bagong National Institute of Health sheds light on 4 Pag-Asa Committee prepares Regional Action Plan 11 COVID-19 antigen testing

Caraga RDC conducts 103rd Full Council meeting, Caraga posts 5.0 percent economic growth 6 approves 2019 RDR 12 in 2019

7 One Caraga Shield introduces local RDC-InfraCom endorses PhP 111 Billion innovations 14 investment program for FY 2022, PhP 272 Billion infrastructure program for 8 Caraga calls for outstanding COVID-19 volunteer FY 2022-2024 nominations

One Caraga Shield tackles regional economic 10 recovery, allows resumption of flights at

Feature 2020 Search for Outstanding COVID-19 Volunteer 2020 Caraga Regional Development Council 9 Regional Winners 24 Awards for Nutrition and Indigenous Peoples Development

Contributors’ Section An egg-citing story of an ex-OFW: Mamanwas in get own toilets from 15 If chicken do it, so can you 17 KALAHI-CIDSS PAMANA

16 del Sur fisherfolks reap fruit of their labor Vol. XXIII, Issue 4 3

Editorial

We saved the best for last with endeavor of the Regional Search this issue to highlight this year’s Committee in partnership with the last tranche of the Caraga Regional Philippine National Volunteer Development Council’s (RDC) Service Coordinating Agency is the policy initiatives and activities. highlight of the 2020 National The cover story found on page Volunteer Month in December. 4 is a feature on the conduct of the Another cause for celebration is Regional Action Planning the 5.0 Gross Regional Domestic Workshop for the Balik Probinsya, Product growth rate posted by Bagong Pag-Asa (BP2) Program. Caraga in 2019. Our story on this BP2 officials, members and accomplishment is found on page stakeholders validated and 14. provided additional strategies, On the Contributors’ Section, programs and projects to address we highlight the success story of an the needs of BP2 applicants. Overseas Filipino Worker in time Also on this issue is a feature of COVID-19. This story is on the 103rd RDC Full Council brought to us by the Department of meeting where the Council Trade and Industry. endorsed the 2019 Regional In other news, the Department Development Report which of Social Welfare and ON THE COVER presents the overall socioeconomic Development features a community The cover of the Balik Probinsya, performance of the Region for the driven project for the Mamanwa 2 said period. Tribe in Kitcharao, del Bagong Pag-Asa (BP ) Program In line with efforts to end the Norte. Regional Action Plan graces this spread of the Coronavirus Disease The Regional Economic issue’s cover. The geometric 2019 (COVID-19), the Regional Situationer (RES) is a staple on our patterns of different colors Task Force COVID-19 One Caraga newsletters. The 2020 3rd Quarter connotes the convergence of Shield (RTF-COCS) pushed for RES is featured on page 18. various stakeholders in support of innovations by organizing the Meanwhile, the Regional Project the program, as well as the Regional Coordinated Operations Monitoring Report for the same complementation of strategies to Defeat Epidemics (CODE) Team period is found on page 22. and programs to address the to assess high-risk local The year 2020 was full of needs of program beneficiaries. government units on compliance to challenges and even more key policies, providing technical opportunities for reaching new guidance in strategic plan heights for the RDC. While the formulation and implementation, year has come to a close, we end and reporting to the national task the year with full of hope for force. Our story on this is found on brighter and greater things to come page 7. Other updates on the for our beloved Caraga in 2021. COVID-19 situation can be found on page 10. To celebrate and recognize the Caraganons’ patriotism and malasakit amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, we feature the announcement of regional winners for the Search for Outstanding COVID-19 Volunteer. This 4 caraga today Cover Story: Balik Probinsya, Bagong Pag-Asa Committee prepares Regional Action Plan By Amethyst Joy A. Galos, NEDA Caraga

The National Economic and employment, industrialization, the applicants and will bring Development Authority (NEDA) and an improved quality of life in about the BP2 outcomes. A total Regional Office Caraga, as rural areas. As of of 679 programs, projects, and Secretariat to the Special Balik 16 November 2020, a total of activities (PPAs) amounting to Probinsya, Bagong Pag-Asa 5,107 Caraganons have already PhP 143 Billion were initially (BP2) Program Committee under applied for the BP2 Program. included in the draft RAP. the Caraga Regional During the workshop, The BP2 Program was Development Council (RDC), representatives from the regional institutionalized through coordinated and facilitated the line agencies (RLAs), local Executive Order (EO) No. 114, conduct of the BP2 Program government units (LGUs), and Series of 2020, as a continuing Regional Action Plan (RAP) private sector were divided into national program to ensure Workshop on 16 November 2020 six (6) breakout groups balanced regional development via teleconference. corresponding to the key results and equitable distribution of The BP2 Program RAP areas (KRAs), namely: wealth, resources, and intends to provide action-oriented Empowerment of Local opportunities, and at the same solutions to the needs identified Industries; Food Security and time address congestion in the by the BP2 Program applicants Agricultural Productivity; National Capital Region (NCR) through the online dashboard Housing, Social Welfare, Health, by encouraging people, especially maintained by the National Employment, and Human informal settlers, to return to their Housing Authority (NHA). The Resource Development; home provinces. said Plan is crucial in Infrastructure Development; The BP2 Program RAP will be operationalizing the program Governance/Assistance to presented to the Special BP2 through the implementation of Relocatees; and Strategic Program Committee on strategies, policies, programs, and Communication. The workshop 09 December 2020 for validation projects that boost countryside aimed to validate and solicit and vetting and onward development and inclusive additional strategies and programs endorsement to the Caraga RDC. growth; provide adequate social for the short, medium, and long- services; and promote full terms that address the needs of Vol. XXIII, Issue 4 5 Balik Probinsya, Bagong Pag-Asa Program Regional Action Plan Development Framework

MATATAG, MAGINHAWA, AT PANATAG NA BUHAY

A Healthy and Resilient

Sustainably developed, culturally responsive, and globally competitive

High-trust, socially cohesive, vibrant, resilient, and sustainable communities

Key Results Assistance to Empowerment of Food Security and Areas Relocatees Local Industries Agricultural Productivity

Strengthen preparedness and Establish loan and facilities and Provision of agriculture and readiness of the LGUs credit funds agro-industries support Integrate components of the Implement livelihood programs enterprises Strategies BP2 Program in the Planning, Provision of performance-based, Ensure access to credit, finance Investment Programming and targeted, time-bound, and and other grants Legislative Agenda of the transparent tax incentives Investment in agriculture LGUs Promotion of investment in infrastructure development Establish structures, policies and technology-based enterprises Promote innovations for protocols in relocation of the agricultural production beneficiaries from the sending Provision of livelihood and LGUs to the receiving LGUs employment

Key Results Housing, Social Welfare, Infrastructure Strategic Communication Governance Areas Health, Employment, and Development Human Resource Development

Promotion of community-driven Linking food production and Development of a strategic Development and housing projects residential areas for efficiency communication plan implementation of initiatives Continuing provision of social and accessibility Establishment of an online plat- that address policy, Strategies service and employment Strengthen convergence of form and BP2 desks in all governance, and operational programs adequate transport offices of member agencies to gaps in the implementation of Improve access to comprehensive Provision of reliable internet and facilitate accessibility to the the BP2 program at the quality health services adequate power and water public and enhance monitoring regional and local levels Investment in flexible learning supply services of implementation, and ensure Ensure that legislative, delivery system and provision the compliance of beneficiaries regulatory, and policy changes of skills training are identified and enforced to promote balanced regional development

Enabling Conducive Policy Measures Legal Support Coherent PAPs Institutional Support Environment

Pre- Condi- Socio-Political Context Peace and Security Resource Endowments Disaster Risk Vulnerability

National Spatial Strategy 6 caraga today Caraga RDC conducts 103rd Full Council meeting, approves 2019 RDR By Patricia B. Radaza, NEDA Caraga

The Caraga Regional As of September 28, the Region Development Council (RDC) tallied a total of 1,290 COVID-19 convened for its 103rd Full cases, with a positivity rate of 22 Council meeting on September percent. 29. Caraga RDC Chairperson and Among others, the Council Governor Dale also passed the following key B. Corvera chaired the resolutions: (a) Resolution No. 46 teleconference to discuss the -A, Series of 2020, “Approving latest developments in the Region and Adopting the Creation of the and the necessary interventions to Special Regional Committee on be undertaken during the third the Sustainable Development quarter of this year. Among Goals and Approving Its Work others, the meeting highlighted Plan for CY 2020-2021 Thereof”; the approval and adoption of the (b) Resolution No. 47, Series of 2019 Caraga Regional 2020, “Confirming the Special Development Report (RDR). Committee on Balik Probinsya, In his welcome message, Gov. Bagong Pag-Asa (BP2) Program Corvera remarked, “Despite our Organizational Structure and Its gains from the previous year, we Work Program”; and (C) are still confronted by many Cover of the 2019 Caraga Regional Resolution No. 49-A, Series of daunting challenges.” Development Report 2020, “Recommending to the Meanwhile, NEDA Regional Sangguniang Panlalawigans of Director (RD) Atty. Bonifacio G. In another presentation, and de Uy presented the RDR for the RD Uy emphasized that sectoral Oro to Conduct a Joint Session past year. His report featured the relevance, implementation Towards the Amicable Resolution major accomplishments of the readiness, and agency priority of Their Existing Boundary various sectors in the Region as it will be taken into consideration in Conflict”. related to the targets set in the identifying priority programs and The meeting also highlighted Caraga Regional Development projects. Relative to this, the the awarding of the plaques of Plan (CRDP) 2017-2022 Midterm Council approved and adopted recognition to former members Update. The same report also the CRDP Communication Plan of the Caraga RDC, such as heads revealed that the Region 2017-2022 including the Caraga of regional offices who have continues to face many challenges RDC Review Guidelines on the already been reassigned to other across its sectors in the remaining revalidation of the Annual posts. years of CRDP’s Investment Program and the implementation. priority programs, projects, and Gov. Corvera also challenged activities for inclusion in the the Council and said that the Fiscal Year 2022 Agency Budget Region should continue to strive Proposals. forward to become the “Fishery, During the same meeting, Agro-Forestry, Mineral, and Department of Health RD Jose R. Ecotourism” or FAME Center of Llacuna, Jr. also reported on the the Country by 2022 amidst the coronavirus disease 2019 or new normal. COVID-19 status of the Region. Vol. XXIII, Issue 4 7 One Caraga Shield introduces local innovations By Kris Jane E. de Rama, NEDA Caraga

The Regional Task Force for COVID-19 One Caraga Shield (RTF-COCS) convened its 13th teleconference meeting on October 6. RTF-COCS Chairperson and Agusan del Norte Governor Dale B. Corvera presided over the meeting wherein the Task Force’s present strategies were assessed to effectively respond to COVID-19 local transmission in the Region. As of October 5, the Department of Health (DOH) Caraga reported that the Region already registered a total of 1,602 COVID-19 confirmed cases. Of this figure, 1,014 are already discharged and A, “Concurring with the Request COVID-19. Dr. Lex Michael L. recovered, 524 are active cases, of the Province of Surigao del Guiritan, Engr. Lyndon R. while 64 persons died. Norte to Place Selected Areas in Bermoy and Mr. Chardy The RTF also organized the Under Enhanced Fernando from the Philippine Regional Coordinated Operations Community Quarantine/Modified Science High School Caraga to Defeat Epidemics (CODE) Enhanced Community Quarantine Campus presented Chokepoint, a Team, which shall be responsible (ECQ/MECQ) for the Period 30 mobile tracing application that for assessing high-risk local September – 14 October 2020”; utilizes a geo-tagging feature government units on following (c) RTF-COCS Resolution No. 82 using a quick response (QR) code aspects: compliance to key -E, “Concurring with the and has the ability to record and policies; providing technical Request of the Province of track activities of registered guidance in strategic plan Agusan del Sur to Place Selected COVID-19 cases. Moreover, Mr. formulation and implementation; Areas in the Municipality of San Gideon G. Buniel of the and reporting to the Inter-Agency Francisco, Agusan del Sur Under Department of Science and Task Force for the Management MECQ for the Period 03-18 Technology (DOST) Caraga of Emerging Infectious Diseases October 2020”; and (d) RTF- presented Project 1M, a do-it- (IATF-MEID) on the status of COCS Resolution No. 82- yourself face shield capable of key COVID-19 indicators. F, “Concurring with the Request indicating accurate distancing and Among others, the Task Force of the Province of Dinagat recharging itself. passed the following key Islands for a Moratorium on the resolutions: (a) RTF-COCS Acceptance of Locally Stranded Resolution No. 79, “Requesting Individuals into the Province for the IATF-MEID to Provide the Period 01-14 October 2020”. Mechanical Ventilators and Meanwhile, the said meeting Funds for the Establishment of also provided opportunity to Quarantine Facilities in Caraga feature local innovations Region”; (b) RTF-COCS developed by Caraganons that Resolution No. 82- have the potential to mitigate 8 caraga today Caraga calls for outstanding COVID-19 volunteer nominations By Amethyst Joy A. Galos, NEDA Caraga

 Has served/assisted at least 20 beneficiaries; and  Volunteer work may be carried out solely by the nominated volunteer or in partnership with groups, companies, and/or organizations.

RD Sonido called on RSC members to collectively assist in the dissemination of information to all stakeholders. The Philippine Information Agency was requested to encourage widespread advocacy on the SOCV by tapping all members of the press to convey the information through various media platforms. Meanwhile, the Commission on Higher Education was tasked to provide all higher education institutions with a copy of the SOVC guidelines and nomination forms and encourage them to submit nominations to the search. The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority and the Department of the Interior and Local Government committed to tap their stakeholders and invite all local government units to send nominations, respectively. The Most Outstanding COVID-19 Volunteer for Caraga Region will be recognized during the 104th (4th Quarter 2020) Caraga Regional The Caraga Regional Search the volunteering activities done to Development Council Full Council Committee (RSC) for the Search for avert the impact of COVID-19. Meeting on 25 November 2020. At the Outstanding COVID-19 Volunteer The Search is open for all same time, the said Most Outstanding (SOCV) convened on 28 October Filipinos, regardless of age, who Regional COVID-19 Volunteer will 2020 via teleconference. The SOCV have rendered volunteer work and be endorsed for recognition at the aims to recognize the contribution of made significant contributions in national level on November 27 to the individuals who voluntarily offered addressing the challenges brought Philippine National Volunteer Service their services, skills, and resources in about by the COVID-19 pandemic. Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA). response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Relative to this, the Caraga RSC is The conduct of the regional search is In her welcome message, RSC now calling for nominees with the NRO Caraga’s manifestation of strong Chairperson and NEDA Regional following qualifications: support to widely promote the culture of volunteerism in the Region. The Director (RD) Priscilla R. Sonido  Has rendered at least 20 hours of conduct of the Search is in informed the members that this year’s volunteer services in response to coordination with the PNVSCA. search is unique from the previous COVID-19 for the period March years’, because the search focuses on to September 2020; Vol. XXIII, Issue 4 9 2020 Search for Outstanding COVID-19

Mr. Dacera’s major accomplishments: Mr. Melo’s major accomplishments: Mr. Cornelio’s major accomplishments:

Awarded with the Bronze Cross Medal by the Organized Project Module + SK Donation drive; Served as frontline worker in documenting Armed Forces of the Philippines; Assisted in the delivery of meals for frontline travelers at the Alegria-San Francisco Organized the donation of school supplies and workers; Provincial Checkpoint; personal protective equipment (PPEs) to Assisted in the production of PPEs; Served as volunteer driver in shuttling Baobaoan Integrated School in City; Assisted in the repacking and delivery of relief government personnel, food and supplies to Organized the distribution of food packs for goods for residents/senior citizens and and from checkpoints, and the Provincial underweight children and pregnant and Indigenous Peoples; Emergency Operations Center; lactating mothers in Butuan City; Assisted in anti-COVID-19 info drive and Assisted in anti-COVID-19 information drive; Supported the Environmental Frontliner provision of hygiene kits; Assisted in the conduct of antivirus testing of Donation Drive by donating sacks of rice, Assisted senior citizens in purchasing medicines, Locally Stranded Individuals (LSIs) and PPEs and food packs to garbage collectors; accessing medical services, and social pension Returning Overseas Filipinos (ROFs) at the Conducted regular radio guesting for the Bantay payout; Afga Holding Area; and Coronavirus Radio Program; Served as FB Page administrator for the Assisted in the preparation of food for frontline Organized the distribution of relief goods and COVID-19 Task Force; workers, LSIs and ROFs at the Afga Holding PPEs to frontliners and vulnerable sector; and Served at checkpoints as frontline worker; and Area. Coordinated volunteer projects for 15 barangays. Assisted in the disinfection of quarantine facilities and schools.

The Regional Search Committee (RSC) is proud to announce and congratulate Mr. Gil L. Melo as Caraga’s Outstanding COVID-19 Volunteer. The RSC likewise congratulates Mr. Carlo D. Dacera and Mr. Darrel Jay C. Cornelio who completes the top 3 winners in the Region. Mr. Melo is the regional nominee to the Search for Outstanding COVID-19 Volunteer (SOCV) 2020 at the national level, which will be conferred online on 16 December 2020 as part of the highlights of the National Volunteer Month celebration.

The SOCV 2020 is spearheaded by the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency in partnership with the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Caraga. The RSC is chaired by NEDA and composed of the following member-agencies: Commission on Higher Education, Civil Service Commission, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Philippine Information Agency, and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority. 10 caraga today One Caraga Shield tackles regional economic recovery, allows resumption of flights at Bancasi Airport by Kris Jane E. de Rama, NEDA Caraga

The Regional Task Force for COVID (RSVC) concerning the various Imposition of Community -19 One Caraga Shield (RTF-COCS) executive orders issued by various Quarantine Measures and convened its 14th teleconference local government units in the Restrictions”; meeting on November 5 to discuss Region to place certain areas within 2. RTF-COCS Resolution No. 91- the interventions and action plans to their respective jurisdictions under B, Series of 2020,” A Resolution further contain the spread of specific community quarantine Concurring on the Imposition of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID- arrangements and zonal lockdowns Zonal Lockdown in Certain 19) in the Region. RTF-COCS as necessary. Areas within Taganito Mining Chairperson and Agusan del Norte The RSCV is chaired by the Corporation in the Municipality Provincial Governor Dale B. Corvera Department of the Interior and Local of Claver, ”; presided over the said meeting. As Government and co-chaired by and of November 4, Department of DOH. Meanwhile, the Department 3. RTF-COCS Resolution No. 91- Health (DOH) reported that the of Social Welfare and C, Series of 2020,” A Resolution Region recorded a total of 2,926 Development requested for the Concurring on the Extension of COVID-19 confirmed cases. A total validation of the local issuances that Modified Enhanced Community of 2,294 were discharged and support the appropriate release of Quarantine (MECQ) in Surigao recovered, 503 are active cases while Social Amelioration Program to City, Surigao del Norte Until 15 129 persons died. qualified beneficiaries in Caraga. November 2020.” As part of the Region’s efforts to The Task Force passed the further advance economic activities, following key resolutions: Philippine National Police the Task Force agreed to allow the Caraga, through Chief Regional Staff full resumption of flights at Bancasi 1. RTF-COCS Resolution No. 91- PCol Jerry V. Protacio, also Airport in Butuan City through RTF- A, Series of 2020, “A Resolution discussed the Joint Task Force COCS Resolution No. 92, Series of Concurring on the COVID Shield’s protocols in the 2020, “A Resolution Allowing the Implementation of Province of movement of goods and people into Full Resumption of Commercial Executive Order and within the Region effective Flights in Bancasi Airport, Butuan No. 29, S. 2020; Municipal October 25. Regional border City Subject to the Observance of Executive Order No. 41, S. 2020 checkpoints are still in place in light Strict Health Protocols”. of , Surigao del Sur; of continued core operations of the The said meeting also discussed and Municipal Executive Order PNP. the updates from the Regional Nos. 53-C and 53-D S. 2020 of Screening and Validation Committee , Surigao del Sur in the Vol. XXIII, Issue 4 11 National Institute of Health sheds light on COVID-19 antigen testing

By Patricia B. Radaza, NEDA Caraga

The Regional Task Force for by the Health Technology used as a supplemental test to the COVID-19 One Caraga Shield Assessment Council. The former. (RTF-COCS) officials and validation of the said kits is still During the open forum, the members, along with the in progress. local health officers clarified provincial/city/municipal health Dr. Salvana also remarked quarantine guidelines and officers (P/C/HOs) and heads of that a high positivity rate isolation protocols with Dr. district hospitals in the Region, experienced in Caraga may imply Salvana to shed light on the gathered for a webinar and that not enough testing is being testing constraints faced on the orientation on rapid antigen done. With this, he recommended ground. Local government testing (AgT) on October 27. The the use of AgT as a supplemental officials also urged the DOH to said event was initiated by test for symptomatic patients and release the guidelines on AgT so Cabinet Secretary, Inter-Agency asymptomatic close contacts. He that the procurement of test kits Task Force on Emerging stressed, however, that the RT- may be facilitated. Infectious Diseases Co- PCR remains to be the gold Chairperson, and Cabinet Officer standard in the diagnosis of for Regional Development and COVID-19 and that AgT may be Security for Caraga Karlo A.B. Nograles, in light of the challenges in performing reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) tests and the high positivity rate of COVID-19 cases in the Region. Director Dr. Edsel Salvana of the Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology of the National Institute of Health of the University of the Philippines- discussed the developments on AgT testing relative to the issuance of the Department of Health (DOH) Memorandum No. 2020-0439, citing that said test may be a substitute for RT-PCR subject to certain conditions. He emphasized that while antigen testing may be useful in identifying the presence of the virus in COVID-19 cases, it still Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) machine at the has its limitations. So far, the Butuan Molecular Laboratory (Photo Credits to PIA Caraga). validated antigen test kits appear to be 71 percent sensitive only, falling short of the minimum sensitivity of 80 percent required 12 caraga today Caraga posts 5.0 percent economic growth in 2019 by Xylia G. Ebron, NEDA Caraga

Comparison of Regional Economic Growth in 2019

Source: PSA Caraga

Caraga Region posted a 5.0 contraction in the Agriculture, output. percent growth rate in 2019, at Fishery, Forestry (AFF) Sector’s Caraga Region’s Services constant 2018 prices, slightly performance and the slower Sector accounted for the largest lower than the 5.2 percent growth in the Industry Sector share of its economic output in registered in 2018. Among others, during the period. Services 2019 at 51.4 percent and the slowdown in the Region’s continued to be the largest registered the fastest growth economy was attributed to the contributor to the Region’s total across regions at 11 percent. The

Comparison of Caraga’s Sectoral Growths in 2018 and 2019, at Constant 2018 prices

Source: PSA Caraga Vol. XXIII, Issue 4 13

Comparison of Regional Services Sector Growths in 2019, at Constant 2018 prices

Source: PSA Caraga

top contributor was the Financial Construction significantly Region, BARMM, and Region and Insurance Activities contracted to -6.9 percent from X, but surpassed Zamboanga subsector which grew by 23 7.6 percent in 2018. Peninsula and percent from 11.4 percent in 2018 The AFF Sector declined in . followed by Public 2019 at -3.6 percent from 3.9 The Region also grew slower Administration and Defense percent in 2018. The decline is than that of the country and subsector at 13.4 percent from mainly attributed to the decrease contributed 1.57 percent to the 14.3 percent, and Transportation in palay and corn production. The overall national output. and Storage at 11 percent growth Region’s fishery production has from 3.8 percent. The growth in been exhibiting a declining trend these subsectors compensated for since 2017. The share of AFF to the decline in Accommodation Caraga’s total output has reduced and Food Service Activities to 12.8 percent in 2019 from 13.9 which posted a 1.5 percent percent in 2018. growth in 2019 from 13.6 percent On the expenditure side, in 2018. Caraga Region registered slower Meanwhile, the Industry growth in household spending at Sector constituted 35.8 percent of 4.9 percent compared to the the Region’s economic output in national average of 5.9 percent. 2019, growing by 0.4 percent Meanwhile, the Region posted from 2.0 in 2018. The one of the highest growths in Manufacturing subsector also Government spending at 11.4 rebounded from a -2.8 percent in percent, alongside Northern 2018 to 5 percent in 2019. It is (19.2 percent) and also the top contributor to the National Capital Region (10.3 Region’s total output for the percent), compared to the national period at 12.6 percent. Mining average of 9.6 percent. and Quarrying also accelerated to Relative to its neighbors, 3.3 percent from 0.2 percent in Caraga’s total economic the previous year. However, performance tailed behind Davao 14 caraga today

Telecommunication Companies, who RDC-InfraCom endorses PhP 111 Billion were also present during the meeting, investment program for FY 2022, PhP 272 assured the Committee that they are currently working to establish Billion infra program for FY 2022-2024 additional cell towers in the Region. The NTC and the telecommunication by Shiela M. Bermoy, NEDA Caraga companies were encouraged to directly coordinate with the Caraga RDC for any issues in securing permits for tower construction. The RDC-IDC also passed the following key resolutions:  RDC-IDC Resolution No. 55, Series of 2020, "Endorsing to the Caraga RDC the Regional Development Council (RDC) XII Resolution No. 50, Series of 2020, 'Expressing Support to the Passage of the Proposed Subscriber Identity The Caraga Regional Development maintenance of physical structures, Module (SIM) Card Registration Council – Infrastructure systems, and facilities in the Region. Act Currently Filed in the 18th Development Committee (RDC- The sector has a total of 1,379 Congress'"; IDC) endorsed to the Caraga RDC priority infrastructure projects  RDC-IDC Resolution No. 56, the PhP 111 Billion Annual identified under TRIP with an Series of 2020, "Endorsing to the Investment Program (AIP) for Fiscal aggregate investment requirement Caraga RDC the Caraga Year (FY) 2022 and PhP 272 Billion amounting to PhP 272 Billion. The Construction Industrial Tripartite Three-Year Rolling Infrastructure identified PPAs are mostly related to Council (CCITC) Resolution No. Program (TRIP) for FY 2022-2024 the construction/improvement of th 002, S. 2020, 'A Resolution Seeking during its 4 Quarter 2020 meeting roads amounting to PhP 197 Billion to Extend Project Duration of on 13 November 2020, presided over or 72 percent of the total investment Ongoing Construction Projects by the Chairperson and Agusan del program. A significant chunk of the Due to COVID-19 Pandemic’ with Sur Governor Santiago B. Cane, Jr. proposed investment will fund further recommendations’”; The AIP is an annual slice of the bridges, flood control, and irrigation  RDC-IDC Resolution No. 57, Caraga Regional Development projects. Investment Program 2020-2022 The Committee also deliberated Series of 2020, "Endorsing to the Midterm Update, which contains the on Caraga Region's internet speed Caraga RDC the Revised Outputs priority programs, projects and situation. During the said meeting, of the Formulation for a Master Plan for the Sustainable Urban activities (PPAs) of regional line National Telecommunications agencies and local government units Commission (NTC) Caraga OIC- Infrastructure Development (LGUs) that are pipelined for Regional Director Ferdinand F. (MPSUID) in Butuan City”; implementation in 2022. Mortera presented the status of  RDC-IDC Resolution No. 58, The PhP 111 Billion investment internet speed in the Region. Series of 2020, "Enjoining the will fund 1,413 PPAs. The bulk of Director Mortera shared that the DPWH National Building Code these projects are from the ideal density ratio of households per Development Office (NBCDO) to Department of Public Works and cell site or tower is 100 to 200. Come Up with a Standard Highways, which will implement However, the Region has only 681 Interpretation on the Collection of 1,231 projects amounting to PhP 106 cell towers, which carry 4,154 users Electronics Fees and Charges Billion or 95 percent of the total per cell site. Director Mortera Pursuant to NBCDO Memorandum investment cost. Among the LGUs, stressed that the inadequate number Circular No. 3, Series of 2016"; the provinces of Agusan del Sur, of cell towers is a primary concern. and Surigao del Sur, and the Butuan City The Region must be able to address  RDC-IDC Resolution No. 59, have the highest number of the increasing demand for faster and Series of 2020, "Endorsing to the infrastructure projects. accessible internet connectivity. The Caraga RDC the Request for Meanwhile, the Committee also improvement and expansion of DPWH to Enjoin Contractors to approved the TRIP for FY 2022- digital connectivity and inclusion are Put Up Early Warning Signages in 2024, which include priority PPAs also essential for smooth navigation Areas with Ongoing Road for construction, improvement, to the new normal. Representatives Construction/Rehabilitation rehabilitation, restoration, or from the Smart, Globe, and PLDT Projects.” Vol. XXIII, Issue 4 15 Contributors’ Section An egg-citing story of an ex-OFW: If chicken do it, so can you From Department of Trade and Industry - Surigao del Norte

but expanded to Surigao City and nearby municipalities such as Placer in Surigao del Norte. Although the chicken coup opened last March 2020 when COVID-19 pandemic has just started to be felt in the Country, she was not daunted by its effect. Instead, she became more encouraged to expand her business. She managed the operations (procuring feeds and tending the chickens) and meticulously kept track on how the egg business works. Arce started by selling eggs in the neighborhood and tapped agencies such as DTI to help her market the eggs. Not long after, Lilibeth Arce opened her egg-layer machine for 1,000 chickens amid the she started harvesting an average pandemic but her hopes were high to advocate food sustainability in Surigao City. of 900 eggs daily. Pretty soon, egg dealers started stopping by at Meet Lilibeth Arce, an all-around It is a vegetation site for ginger, her farm to buy all her harvests. entrepreneur who used to be an eggplant, okra, string beans, chili When asked about return on Overseas Filipina Worker (OFW) and bell peppers, among others investment, capacity to repay but is now an entrepreneur with amid flowering and beautiful capital loan, business contingency many ventures. shrubs lined by several mango plan and the next round of These include being the trees. It also has pigpens and increased harvest by putting up chairperson of Trinidad Agrarian chicken coup for fighting and free another egg-laying machine, she Reform Beneficiaries Cooperative -range native chickens. expressed her desire to pursue (TARBECO), a food processing But what draws us into her more of her business. cooperative located at world even more and prompted a "I want to share what I have Trinidad in Surigao City, to visit from the Department of learned because I want to help managing her own carenderia and Trade and Industry (DTI) Surigao not only in providing jobs for the local bagsakan outlet for del Norte OIC-Provincial Director people of Trinidad but also because I am an advocate of food farmers’ yields, and becoming the Elmer M. Natad was Ms. Arce’s president of Marajaw Karajaw recently-opened egg-layer security for Surigao," Arce said, Local Producers and Exhibitors machine for 1,000 chickens. encouraging other existing or Association. Nestled almost at the edge of would-be entrepreneurs by Just recently, she added her land bordered by the Surigao sharing her story and the thriving another feather on her cap when River was a structure built to agri-business of Memorada Farm. she put up the Memorada Farm, a supply the egg requirement not 1.7 hectare of agri-tourism haven. only within Barangay Trinidad 16 caraga today Surigao del Sur fisherfolks reap fruits of their labor From Department of Agriculture Caraga

Members of the Anunang Gamut Fishermen’s Association (AGFA) abundantly harvested bangus from fish pens off the coast of , Surigao del Sur.

As the saying goes, what you sow their bangus was limited to local the members of the association.” is what you reap. buyers since their harvest was just Cahilis said. For the members of the minimal. The bangus production and Anunang Gamut Fishermen’s In 2011, the AGFA availed of marketing project was Association (AGFA), life is a livelihood project through the implemented early this year. The definitely making a turn for the Community Fund for Agricultural AGFA was granted two (2) units better now that they have started Development (CFAD) under the of fish pens and was linked with a harvesting from their bangus Mindanao Rural Development buyer from , Agusan del production and marketing project Program. With their bangus Sur. A total of 30,000 fingerlings under the Department of production project, they were were released on the two (2) fish Agriculture – Philippine Rural granted one fish pen loaded with pens in June . Development (DA-PRDP) bangus fingerlings. On November 16, the AGFA Enterprise Component. However, their supply was harvested from one (1) pen and AGFA is a Fisherfolks’ still not sufficient to meet the got 2,456 kilos amounting to Association from Sitio Anunang, demand for the said fish in the PhP 270,210. AGFA will harvest Barangay Gamut, Barobo, markets. Hence, they applied for again once they receive the order Surigao del Sur. Association an expansion of the said endeavor from the buyer. Chairman Manuel Cahilis said through the project under the DA- Cahilis said that their bangus that most of the residents in their PRDP. project really made a difference in area rely on fishing for their “Now that we have this the lives of the members of livelihood. project, it has really made a big AGFA. “Our way of living now is However, according to difference. With the additional a lot better; thanks to this Cahilis, prior to availing the fish pens, we have more harvest project,” he said. project from the DA-PRDP, and we can be sure to meet the fisherfolks went on fishing demand of our contracted buyer. individually, thus, marketing of This also means more income for Vol. XXIII, Issue 4 17 Mamanwas in Kitcharao get own toilets from Kalahi-CIDSS PAMANA From Department of Social Welfare and Development Caraga

Mamanwa tribe members in Barangay Poblacion, Kitcharao town in Agusan del Norte no longer need to go to the great outdoors to relieve themselves. This after the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Kapit- Bisig Laban sa kahirapan – Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS) Program turned over 31 individual household latrines to the said indigenous community on 13 November 2020. The construction of individual latrines in Sitio Bliss, which costs PhP 2.2 Million, is under the Disaster Response Operation Procedure (DROP) of the Guests and officials take a pose during the turn-over of latrines in Barangay KALAHI-CIDSS PAyapa at Poblacion, Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte. MAsaganang PamayaNAn Indigenous Peoples Community- and healthier environment. benefit from it),” Valdehueza Driven Development (PAMANA Tribal leader Mabalaw Edwin said. IP CDD). Biog was grateful for the project PAMANA, under the Office According to the United and encouraged Mamanwas to of the Presidential Adviser on the Nations, everyone must have use these toilets and not return to Peace Process (OPAPP), is the sustainable sanitation, alongside their old ways. government’s framework for clean water and handwashing Biog said the toilets will peace and development. It is facilities, to help protect and definitely raise the standard of implemented in conflict-affected maintain good health and stop the living of the Mamanwas. communities, as well as in areas spread of deadly infectious KALAHI-CIDSS Regional covered by existing peace diseases such as COVID-19, Infrastructure Officer Engr. agreements. cholera, and typhoid. Potamio Valdehueza hopes that KALAHI-CIDSS falls under Poblacion Barangay the beneficiaries will take care of the second strategic pillar of the Chairperson Marwayne Napalan the project for the next PAMANA framework, which is said the project is the answer to generation. building resilient communities. the hygiene and sanitation “Nanghinaut mi nga inyong The project objective is to problem in Sitio Bliss. tipigan kining mga latrine nga improve the access of KALAHI- He said that the road to being gibuhat para kaninyo arun CIDSS areas classified as conflict healthy starts with a clean toilet, mapuslan pa kini sa mga sunod -affected barangays to basic adding that the installation of nga mga henerasyon (We hope social services and responsive, toilets will significantly reduce that you will take good care of transparent, and accountable local the occurrence of diseases and the these latrines we made for you so governments. community now enjoys a cleaner that the future generation will still 18 caraga today 2020 Third Quarter Regional Economic Situationer By Xylia G. Ebron, NEDA Caraga

Macroeconomic Labor Force Survey, Caraga, April 2020, July 2019 & July 2020 Performance April July July Indicators 2020 2020 2019 The Philippines' inflation rate eased for the second straight month in Labor Force Participation Rate 57.0% 68.6% 63.4% September 2020 to 2.3 percent from Employment Rate 87.7% 93.3% 95.2% the 2.4 percent recorded in August. Unemployment Rate 12.3% 6.7% 4.8% However, inflation rate in Caraga Underemployment 32.2% 17.1% 17.6% Region has increased to 3.2 percent Source: PSA Caraga in September 2020 from 2.9 percent the previous month. Since March 2020, which was at the onset of the as the purchase of personal July 2020 from 32.2 percent the pandemic, inflation in the region has protective equipment for their previous quarter. been greater than the national medical staff. inflation rate. Agriculture, Forestry and Average prices of basic Employment Rate Improved Fishery Sector commodities also increased slightly. Food and non-alcoholic beverages As the economy gradually reopened Palay production slightly increased by 0.68 percent. Housing, in the third quarter of 2020, decreased water, electricity, gas and other fuels employment rate rose to 93.3 percent commodity group also increased by from 87.7 percent the previous From the latest data provided by the 4.61 percent due to the rise in quarter. Likewise, from the threefold PSA, the overall palay production in charges for services related to home increase in April 2020, the region’s the Region declined by 4.1 percent in repairs. The health commodity group unemployment rate improved to 6.7 the second quarter of 2020 from the slightly increased by 3.36 percent percent in July 2020 from 12.3 same period the previous year. due to the increase in prices of percent in April 2020. In addition, outpatient services, medical services, about 83,000 Caraganons were Corn production improved and dental services. This may be unemployed in July from 126,000 in Corn production in the Region attributed to the additional expenses April. Meanwhile, underemployment improved in the second quarter of incurred by the health facilities such rate also improved to 17.1 percent in 2020 from the second quarter of 2019 despite the pandemic. All Inflation Rate, Caraga, January-September 2020 provinces have shown an increase in their corn produce. Overall, Caraga observed a 4.6 percent increase in the second quarter of 2020 from the same period last year.

Decrease in livestock production

Hog production declined by 8 percent, carabao by 18 percent, cattle by 28 percent, and goat by 36 percent. Producers cited the lack of processing facilities and the travel ban restrictions in the Region as some of the reasons for the decline in livestock production.

Source: PSA Caraga Vol. XXIII, Issue 4 19

Top 5 Commodities with Highest CPI Growth, Caraga, Q2 2019 & Q2 2020 Agriculture, Forestry and Fishery Production

Q2 2020 vs Q2 2019

402 8,704 Source: PSA Caraga ▼ ▼ 557 9,485 Palay Production, Caraga, Q2 2019 & Q2 2020, in M.T.

Cattle Hog

498 148 ▼ ▼ 605 232

Source: PSA Caraga

Corn Production, Caraga, Q2 2019 & Q2 2020, in M.T. Carabao Goat

190,078 2,336 ▲ ▲ 112,051 2,230

Log* Fish

Source: PSA Caraga *Log Production, Q2-Q3 2020 20 caraga today

Log Production and Manufactured New Business Registrations, Caraga, Q3 2019 & Q3 2020 Forest Products Increased

As the travel restrictions eased in the Region, log production increased by 70 percent in the third quarter of 2020 from the second quarter. The increase can also be attributed to the increase in the disposition of log products to Regions 10 and 11. We also observed a 457 percent increase in the volume of manufactured forest products in the third quarter of 2020 from the previous quarter, as 100 percent of the wood processing plants reopened full operations. Source: DTI Caraga

Industry Sector

New Business Registrations Passengers by Sea and Inland Waterway, Caraga, Q3 2019 & Q3 2020 Recorded Amid the Pandemic

New business registrations in the Region increased by 37 percent in the third quarter of 2020 from the same period the previous year. The increase can be attributed to the rise of online sellers in the Region. Relative to this, 8 percent more jobs were generated in the third quarter of 2020 from the same quarter last year.

Services Sector

Transportation subsector hit hard Source: PPA

The number of passengers at Nasipit Port declined by 88 percent in the third quarter of 2020 from the same Cargo by Sea and Inland Waterway, Caraga, Q3 2019 & Q3 2020, in MT quarter the previous year as traveling for leisure is still highly discouraged to contain the spread of the Coronavirus Disease 2019. A 14 percent decline in total domestic cargo throughput in the third quarter of 2020 from the same quarter the previous year was observed. Meanwhile, a 124 percent increase was observed in export volume due to the high volume of nickel ore exportation.

Tourist Arrivals Dropped

Overall tourist arrivals in the Region Source: PPA Nasipit declined by 80 percent from 1.1 million tourists in the third quarter of Vol. XXIII, Issue 4 21

2019 to 211,521 in the third quarter Total Tourist Arrivals , Caraga, Q3 2019 & Q3 2020 of 2020. Likewise, tourist expenditure also declined by 80 percent from PhP 13.1 Million in the third quarter last year to PhP 2.5 Million this year.

Peace and Security

The intensified law enforcement operations, particularly through the anti-criminality campaign such as “Oplan Sita” and campaign against loose firearms, have made significant impact to the community resulting in Source: DOT Caraga the decrease of crime volume in the third quarter of 2020 from the same quarter the previous year. The Total Tourist Expenditure , Caraga, Q3 2019 & Q3 2020 continued illegal drug operations and anti-local insurgency efforts also have direct bearing on the decrease of index crimes.

Development Prospects

Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishery Sector

There is an ongoing construction of a farm-to-market (FMR) road in Placer, Surigao del Norte measuring 4.86 km. This is project is implemented under the Department Source: DOT Caraga of Agriculture-Philippine Rural Development Project (DA-PRDP). The FMRs constructed by the DA- Crime Data , Caraga, Q3 2019 & Q3 2020 PRDP will directly benefit a total of Indicator Q3 2019 Q3 2020 8,898 farming and fishing Crime Volume 2326 2312 households. Crime Clearance Efficiency 89% 83% Crime Solution Efficiency 94% 91% Industry Sector Source: PNP Caraga Roads Leveraging Linkages of Industry and Trade (ROLL IT) Projects amounting to PhP 878 Integrated Renewable Power Facility built in City. Construction of Million are to be implemented in the Hubs in Placer, Surigao del Norte, the said project will commence in Region. ROLL IT is a working with an investment of PhP 1.3 2021. arrangement between the DTI and Billion, which will start operating in DPWH to jointly undertake the December 2021. planning, monitoring, and development of infrastructure project Services Sector in priority economic and manufacturing zones. JM McGregor Haggens, Inc. is Big investments in the Region embarking on a multi-billion peso were also recorded such as the project to transform Bislig City, Universal Power Solutions, Inc., a Surigao del Sur into the next global new operator of Battery Energy destination port in Asia. To be called Storage Solutions component of The Maritime City, the hub will be 22 caraga today 2020 Third Quarter Regional Project Monitoring Report

The Caraga Regional Project Monitoring Committee (RPMC) resumed its field project monitoring activity on September 28-30, 2020. The projects monitored cover the sub-sectors on DRR-CCA, irrigation, social, and transportation. Out of the 16 projects monitored, 44 percent or seven (7) projects are already completed, while 50 percent or eight (8) projects are ongoing, and one project is suspended. The total projects monitored amount to PhP 4.3 Billion. These projects are supportive to the outcome: Robust Growth Through Strategic Infrastructure Development of the Caraga Regional Development Plan 2017-2022 Midterm Update.

The list of projects monitored for the 3rd quarter is shown below.

Project Cost, Status (As reported by the No. Name of Project & Components Location PhP Million Implementing Agencies) DRR/CCA Sub-sector 1 Construction/Maintenance of Flood Mitigation Barangay Masao, 106.15 Completed Structures and Drainage Systems-Flood Mitigation Butuan City Structures at Masao River Mouth and Construction of Cut-off Channel at Masao River, Butuan City, ADN 2 Construction of Flood Mitigation Structure along Barangay Masao, 97.73 Ongoing Masao River, Package 1 Butuan City 3 Construction/Improvement of Access Roads Leading to Barangay Banza, 113.54 Completed Declared Tourism Destinations – to Support River Butuan City Cruise Protecting Banza Ruins, Banza, Butuan City 4 Road to Support River Cruise Protecting Banza Ruins, Barangay Banza, 96.19 Ongoing Barangay Banza, Butuan City (152.00 Slope Protection) Butuan City 5 Desiltation/Channel Widening of Taligaman – Butuan City 144.75 Completed Antongalon – Mahay Creek, Butuan City Irrigation Sub-sector 6 Mat-i Magos Small Irrigation Project (SIP) Las Nieves, 36.51 Ongoing Contract No. Mat-i Magos SIP-01-2018-RO Agusan del Norte 7 Mat-i Magos SIP Las Nieves, 19.07 Ongoing Contract No. Mat-I Magos SIP-10-2019-ASDI-IMO Agusan del Norte 8 Mat-i Magos SIP Las Nieves, 8.95 Ongoing Contract No. Mat-I Magos SIP-24-2019-ASDI-IMO Agusan del Norte 9 MAP IP CY 2018 Las Nieves, 23.61 Ongoing Contract No. MAP IP-06-2018-ASDI-IMO Agusan del Norte 10 MAP IP CY 2018 Las Nieves, 29.35 Completed Contract No. MAP IP-02-2018-ASDI-IMO Agusan del Norte 11 MAP IP CY 2018 Las Nieves, 20.04 Completed Contract No. MAP IP-07-2018-ASDI-IMO Agusan del Norte Social Infrastructure Sub-sector 12 Construction of Home for Girls (HFG) Dormitory Phase Purok 4, Barangay Bonbon, 5.28 Ongoing 3 Butuan City 13 Completion of Brgy. Lower Olave Barangay Health Barangay Lower Olave, 0.45 Completed Station (BHS) Buenavista, Agusan del Norte Transportation Sub-sector 14 JICA-Assisted Road Upgrading and Preservation Project Various Locations 3,319.91 Ongoing 15 19NO0098 Construction of By-Pass and Diversion Butuan City, Agusan del Norte 134.73 Completed Roads – Butuan City West Diversion Road, Butuan City, Agusan del Norte 16 20NO0018 Construction of By-Pass and Diversion Butuan City, Agusan del Norte 107.64 Suspended Roads – Butuan City West Diversion Road, Butuan City, Agusan del Norte Vol. XXIII, Issue 4 23

2020 Third Quarter Colophon

Regional Project Monitoring Report Edition Caraga Today Volume XXIII, Issue 4 October-December 2020

Publisher Caraga Regional Development Council

Address NEDA Caraga Building J Rosales Avenue, Butuan City 8600

Telephone 085 342-5774; 085 815-0308

Website nro13.neda.gov.ph

Email [email protected]

Online Versions issuu.com/nedacaraga slideshare.net/NEDACaraga13

Editor-in-Chief RD Priscilla R. Sonido

Associate Editor OIC-ARD Michelle P. Dela Calzada

Managing Editors Gemima A. Olam Graziella C. Harting Francisco Romulus C. Villanueva Venus S. Derequito Melanie A. Maur

Lay-out Editor Rhea Mae C. Mendez

Writers Amethyst Joy A. Galos Kris Jane E. de Rama Patricia B. Radaza Xylia G. Ebron Shiela B. Bermoy Rhea Mae C. Mendez

Contributors Department of Trade and Industry - Surigao del Norte Department of Agriculture Caraga Department of Social Welfare and Development Caraga 24 caraga today

2020 Caraga Regional Development Council Awards for Nutrition and Indigenous Peoples Development

The 2020 Caraga RDC Awards are initiatives of the Caraga RDC to recognize local government units’ (LGU) best practices, innovative interventions, and commitment in addressing malnutrition, stunting, and wasting, as well as in ensuring inclusive development for the Indigenous Peoples (IPs)/ Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICCs).

For the 2020 Bantogan Para Sa Kalamboan: Hawod LGU Awards for IP Development, the following LGUs are recognized for promoting and showcasing innovative practices to promote the welfare and inclusion of the IPs/ICCs in local development processes:

For the 2020 Ganti Sa Kapiskay: Innovative Award for Eliminating Malnutrition, Stunting and Wasting in Caraga Region, the following LGUs are recognized for implementing innovative best practices to combat malnutrition, stunting, and wasting, especially during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, thereby improving the nutritional status of the locality: