Agusan del Sur PO gives hope to PWDs

Maria Catherine M. Gonzaga

Turn to page 4 ▌Agusan Sur PO gives hope to PWDs

An NGP success story

The differently-abled persons of San Francisco Association of Differently-Abled Person Multi Purpose Cooperative (SAFRA-ADAP MPC) in Sitio Damilag, Barangay Pisaan, San Francisco Agusan del Sur prove that they can still be productive amidst their physical condition as they effectively work to provide the needs of their

families.

A total of 56 individuals with disabilities were given the chance to live a normal life and work harmoniously in a cooperative in Agusan del Sur. This cooperative which is one of the beneficiaries of the National Greening Program of the DENR, started in October 21, 1999 which aims to serve and meet the needs of the persons with disabilities by enhancing and developing their skills and knowledge to

become productive citizens in the community.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

3 DENR 13 officials hold 1st Regional Management Confab for 2016 in Dinagat province

8 DENR 13 updates land records

9 DENR Caraga declares NGP Accomplishment from 2011-2015

10 PENRO ADN bags first prize in MBFDP poster fete

11 DENR Exec appeals to upland dwellers to avoid kaingin farming

12 DENR urged people to participate in the Earth Hour, 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm on March 19

13 DENR Caraga initiates mangrove tree planting for International Day of Forests

15 DENR 13 key officers got new assignment

15 DENR reports low confiscation of forest products for 2015

16 DENR Caraga and MINDA pushed for ARB governing board institutionalization

16 DENR Caraga awards Champions of Climate Change Advocacy

17 DENR Caraga supports info dissemination campaign for West Philippine Sea Issue

18 Secretary Coloma acknowledges DENR Caraga’s “Oras sa Kinaiyahan” radio program

19 Winners of the 2015 Search for Sustainable and Eco-friendly Schools bared

Planting trees. Nurturing minds

First Environmental Youth Forum

Live Philippine Deer rescued

2 January - March 2016

Hope Radio FM: DXIM 93.5/ AM:DXHR 1323 Every 9:00 to 10:00 AM, Tuesdays to Fridays

EDITORIAL CONSULTANTS

NONITO M. TAMAYO, CESO IV Regional Director

ENGR. PAQUITO D. MELICOR, JR.

ARD for Management Services

ROBERTO A. OLIVEROS ARD for Technical Services

EDITORIAL STAFF

HERZON F. GALLEGO

Editor-in-Chief

MARIA CATHERINE M. GONZAGA Associate Editor

JOHNY S. NATAD

Lay-out / Design Editor

JULIET T. CUBILLAS REGINA CHARITO C. GA HECTOR D. DELANTO

PENRO, CENRO and Division Chiefs Contributing Editors

————————————————— The “Kasikas sa Kinaiyahan” is an official newsletter publication of DENR-Caraga with its editorial office at the Regional Public Affairs Office, DENR-13, Barangay Ambago, Butuan City. News manuscript and photograph contribution are accepted subject to the editorial standard policy of this publication. Send comments and reaction t h r o u g h e - m a i l a t denrcaraga@yahoo.com

http://caraga.denr.gov.ph Official Website of DENR Caraga

www.facebook.com/denr13.rpao Communications Development Office Caraga

http://issuu.com/kasikas Kasikas sa Kinaiyahan

hectares, generating a total of 59,763 jobs for the Caraganons.

Another program of the agency is the Community-Based Forest

Management Project. Through this program, the grassroots are given

chance to implement programs within their level.

CBFM has been an effective tool in empowering our people and

making them realize their role in environmental management. We already

mobilized and organized a total of 126 People’s Organization with 54,419

members and 74,386 beneficiaries, developing 207,567.28 hectares.

Region 13 is known to be one of the biggest producers of forest

products in the country. It has 35 Wood Processing Plants. The region has

an average annual log production of 660,729.4 cubic meters for the past

five years.

With the strict implementation of the Executive Order No. 23 or

the Anti-Illegal Logging Campaign, DENR Caraga has been able to trim

down the number of hotspot areas from 31 in 2011 to only 2 this year, a

positive indicator of a declining number of illegal logging activities in the

region.

This is evident in the trend of confiscation from 2011 with

2,102,643.38 board feet down to 1,101,415.91 board feet in 2015. Caraga

has a total of 10,232,517.52 bd. ft. of confiscated forest products from

2011 to 2015.

Out of the total confiscation of the agency, about 4,925,495.92

board feet of confiscated logs were disposed and donated to different

government agencies as assistance for building construction and

fabrication of chairs.

Based on latest tally, there are a total of 50,016 manufactured

armchairs and 47,366 of these were already donated to a total of 331

private and public schools in Caraga Region.

DENR Caraga has also accomplished the Cadastral Survey of 73

cities and municipalities equivalent to 100 percent accomplishment of the

Cadastral Survey Project in the region.

As we work together, DENR Caraga has been declared as Best Delivery Unit for two consecutive years, from 2013 to 2014.

All of these accomplishments were made possible with the

support of the PNP, Philippine Army, Academe, Church, LGUs, Media, Civil

Society Organizations and the people of Caraga. I would like to extend my

gratitude to everyone who is with us in this advocacy to protect our

environment.

DENR Caraga over the past five

years has been eager to strengthen the

protection and conservation of the

environment. We are very thankful that all

our efforts paid off as we achieved great

accomplishments from 2011 to 2015.

Based on latest accomplishments

of the region, under the National Greening

Program or NGP, a total of 51,487,064

seedlings were planted in a total of 72,113

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DENR Caraga Regional Director Nonito M. Tamayo (left) takes his oath of office before DENR Secretary Ramon JP Paje after being appointed as the Regional Director (Director IV) for Caraga Region on March 7, 2016 at the DENR Central Office, Visayas Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City. ▄

Top key officials of the DENR -13 met in Dinagat Province on January 25 and 26, 2016 to hold its 1st Regional Management Conference for year 2016 to discuss and finalize the program of actions

for this year.

DENR Regional Director Nonito M. Tamayo gave his PENR and CENR officers instructions about a directive from Undersecretary for Field Operations Demetrio L. Ignacio, Jr. and Secretary Ramon JP Paje during the recent Regional Director’s conference

at the DENR Central Office in Quezon City.

Considering that this is the last year of the Aquino Administration, Secretary Paje wants to accomplish the nationwide goal for the National Greening Program covering 1.5 million hectares planted with about 1.5 billion tree seedlings of different species including mangroves and cash crops

such as falcata.

Caraga region has been given a goal target of

100,000 hectares over 6 years that started in 2011 when the President imposed Executive Order No. 26 otherwise known as the National Greening Program. To date, about 72,113 hectares have been planted under the NGP in over 5 years with total seedlings of

51,487,064.

“We need to produce about 54,607,067 seedlings, most of which will be provided by the

mechanized nursery center” Director Tamayo said.

“It is good that the DENR mechanized nursery center in Bislig, Surigao del Sur is already in full operation with a daily production of at least 100,000 seedlings. The mechanized nursery is expected to augment the seedling requirements of

the NGP.” he added

The two-day conference of the key officials of DENR 13 was focused on the discussion of issues that will improve the operations of the PENR and

CENR offices. ▄

DENR 13 officials hold 1st Regional Management Confab for 2016 in Dinagat province

Herzon F. Gallego

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4 January - March 2016

Agusan Sur PO gives hope to PWDs

These individuals can effectively produce 150 chairs per day and achieve their daily target

with utmost dedication and determination.

In a world full of criticism, this organization opens its door to differently-abled individuals giving them hope and chance to live a

normal life.

This was first managed by Roland Ordoña, who left a legacy of successful projects that inspired the members of the organization

before he died on October 8, 2015.

Arlyn Peralis has been a member of the organization for 6 years. She has been handicapped since 1999 caused by an accident

that damaged her spinal cord.

“After losing my ability to walk, I thought that I will never live a normal life. I was hopeless, my dreams were shattered into pieces” Arlyn

said.

Arlyn lived a miserable life until she was

introduced to this organization.

“SAFRA-ADAP brought back my confidence. This organization made me whole

again.” Arlyn said.

Arlyn met Edwin, a co-member of the

organization, who became her husband.

“I realized that I can live back to a normal life again. SAFRA-ADAP gave me a job which enabled me to support my 67-year-old father and

send my 14-year-old niece to school” Arlyn said.

The cooperative gave opportunities to the indigenous people of the community. Five of the

members belong to the Manobo tribe.

The organization has 56 members with age ranging from 20 to 50 years old. It has 80 workers and 5 board members. This year, the cooperative has been granted a project under the Department of Education to supply school chairs and teacher’s tables for public schools in Region 9 with an estimated amount of 3 million pesos, in Region 10 costing about 6.5 million pesos, and in the Caraga Region with a budget of 2.8 million

pesos.

It is also supported by the Life Giving Force Foundation from Germany which finances

the salary of the four workers assigned to

plantation maintenance.

The Department of Trade and Industry also supported the organization through providing 2.8 million pesos worth of machinery

for the production of their engineered bamboos.

Another opportunity came when the Department of Environment and Natural Resources implemented Executive Order No. 26 known as the National Greening Program in 2011. The organization enrolled its 11-hectare land under the National Greening Program from

2011 to 2013 planted with 6,175 seedlings.

From 2011 up to date, the DENR has been able to provide financial support for site preparation and maintenance and protection. This program serves as an additional source of

income for the members of the organization.

DENR Caraga Regional Director Nonito M. Tamayo instructed the OIC, PENR Officer of Agusan del Sur, For. Maritess M. Ocampo, to

support and assist the needs of the organization.

“SAFRA-ADAP serves as a good example to all the beneficiaries of NGP. If the members could actually maintain and protect their sites under the program, much more can the people with complete set of hands and feet.”

Director Tamayo said.

“This serves as a challenge for us to do better and never take for granted the chances that are given to us. The DENR strongly supports the advocacy of the organization, thus, we will support it to the best of our abilities” he

said. ▄

Another NGp success story

from page 1

The members and workers of San Francisco Association of Differently Abled Person Multi Purpose Cooperative (SAFRA-ADAP MPC) in Sitio Damilag, Barangay Pisaan, San Francisco Agusan del Sur . ▄

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DENR-13 Regional Director Nonito M. Tamayo assists Dinagat Province Representative Arlene “Kaka” Bag-ao (3rd from left) at the inauguration of the new training center of the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office in San Jose, Dinagat Province recently. Also in photo are Engr. Prudencio P. Salarzon, Jr. of DPWH, Assistant Regional Director for Management Services Paquito D. Melicor Jr., PENRO Agapito Patubo, Director Rolly Castro of the Human Resources Development, DENR Central Office, Assistant Regional Director for Technical Services Roberto A. Oliveros, and Director Wilson Trajico of the Environmental Management Bureau Region 13 Office. (Photo by Herzon Gallego, RPAO 13) ▄

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January - March 2016

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W ho would have thought that through planting trees, about 40 students will be given the chance to learn basic education?

In a world where money is everything, education may seem to be a privilege more than a right.

For the residents of Sitio Bato, Barangay Bitaogan, San Miguel, Surigao del Sur, education is priceless. Most of them were not given the chance to attain formal education. Going to school is a day to day struggle since the nearest school is about 80 kilometers away from their community, not to mention the challenging trail that they have to pass through.

Even the simplest skill of reading and writing is a bit unattainable for them until Datu Subang, the Chairman of a People’s Organization initiated to build a school in their community.

“I joined the National Greening Program of the DENR and led the Bagani Tribal Returnees Community Development Association, Inc. or BTRCDAI. The decision of joining the NGP paved the way to a lot of opportunities” Datu Subang said.

BTRCDAI has 612 members, 69 of which are NGP beneficiaries. Out of the approved CBFMA Area of 1,204.60 hectares, 471 hectares were already developed. In 2013, NGP planted 289 hectares of coffee, falcata, rubber, and fruit trees while 182 hectares of the same species were planted in 2014.

“From the time I joined the NGP, I always set aside a portion of the budget for the construction of a primary school which we called “NGP Primary School”. This is an initiative of the organization to give chance to the children in the community to learn basic education at less cost”

Datu Subang said.

As of today, a total of 40 students are enrolled in the said school which started in 2013 and is offering grades 1 to 4. The school is not yet accredited, but the parents are thankful that their children can learn to read and write despite of financial difficulty.

Planting trees. Nurturing minds. Maria Catherine M. Gonzaga

“We are hoping that in the future, DepEd will recognize this school and will even fund the expansion of the infrastructure and provision of funds for additional teachers since the members of the community who were able to graduate with a degree in education are the only ones who serve as teachers in the school” Datu Subang said.

“Through this initiative, we believe that we can inspire the young generation to strive harder

and hopefully secure a brighter future” he added.

At the height of illegal logging activities in the region, most of the members of the federation were engaged in timber poaching which they

considered as primary source of income.

“We cut those trees inside our ancestral domain and we felt bitter when EO 23 or the Anti-Illegal Logging Campaign was imposed by the DENR as hindrance to trade those trees that we harvested. We saw the bad effects of our actions. The NGP has made us realize that the forest could offer more than just logs, if only we would take care of it and use it correctly” Datu Subang said.

“The National Greening Program has drastically changed our lives. We are former timber poachers but because of this program, we were enlightened and decided to take the right path” he said.

DENR Caraga Regional Director Nonito M. Tamayo expressed his appreciation for the efforts done by this group of Indigenous People in Sibagat, Agusan del Sur.

“I am happy to know that the NGP was able to change the behavior and attitude of a group of Indigenous People known for their involvement in illegal logging and timber poaching activities” Director Tamayo said.

Director Tamayo assured the organization that the DENR will be in its utmost willingness to extend its help to the federation especially when it comes to the National Greening Program.

Datu Subang said that the members of the organization are fully convinced of the NGP. “We are waiting for the right season to harvest coffee. By that time, most of the members of the federation will be millionaires.”

The pupils under the Adopt-A-School Project of Datu Subang called “NGP Primary School”. ▄

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The Mass Oath-Taking Ceremony of the 179 newly appointed and promoted DENR personnel of the Caraga Region held at the local Convention Center in Butuan City on February 11, 2016. (Photo by Catherine Gonzaga) ▄

“Through the National Greening Program, we learn to dream and make those dreams come true” he said.

The National Greening Program aims to plant 1.5 billion trees in a total of 1.5 million hectares over a period of six years from 2011 to 2016.▄

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January –March 2016 8

DENR-13 Assistant Regional Director Roberto A. Oliveros conducts more visits to the different sites of the National Greening Program (NGP) in the 5 five provinces of the region to ensure good survival growth of the tree plantations by the participating People’s Organization in the midst of the drought affecting almost 80 percent of the country caused by the El Niño Phenomenon. (Photo by RPAO 13) ▄

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The Department of Environment and Natural Resources Region 13 office has updated its records on land patents and tapped the expertise of a private firm to facilitate the processing of the

backlogs with the local government units.

“The local officials should encourage the people in their respective jurisdiction to participate in the residential land titling services to improve their income on real property tax” DENR 13 Assistant Regional Director for Technical Services Roberto Oliveros said in a meeting with the representatives of the Foundation for Economic Freedom, a private entity working on the

project “Rapid Land Tenure Assessment”.

“The LGUs need to boost its income from real properties to finance the basic services program such as infrastructure, public schools, and

health among others” he said.

The Rapid Land Tenure Assessment project shall entail encoding of data from the lands records through the system administrator of the CENR offices particularly in Agusan del Norte and Surigao del Sur, Dinagat Province and Surigao del

Norte.

DENR 13 updates land records Herzon F. Gallego

“We have to clean these records to improve the land titling system of the DENR in Caraga

Region,” Oliveros said.

He said the DENR is expected to enter into a Memorandum of Agreement with the Provincial

Government in the implementation of the project.

“The project will hopefully solve fake titles

and double land titling in the future” he said.

The DENR, over the years, has awarded thousands of patents although records also show that there are awardees who failed to register their

patents to the Municipal Assessor’s Office.

Based on feedback received by the DENR, most of the beneficiaries have hesitated to initiate move to register their awarded titles due to the amount involved. “We have to work this out with the

LGU” Oliveros said.

The data containing the list of patented and unpatented lots shall be prepared and presented to the Provincial Governor’s Office which will nominate a municipality under its political jurisdiction in implementing the rapid land tenure assessment

project. ▄

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Residents of a coastal village in Bislig, Surigao del Sur plant propagules of bacauan mangrove species as DENR-13 Regional Director Nonito M. Tamayo instructs the CENR officers and coordinators of the National Greening Program to start the planting of mangroves which are less affected by the dry spell brought by the El Niño phenomenon in their respective area. (DENR-RPAO 13 photo) ▄

DENR Caraga targets to plant 54,607,067 seedlings in a total area of 36,732.87 in 2016 under the National Greening Program of the agency. In its continuous reforestation efforts, DENR Caraga seeks to strengthen its implementation of the National Greening Program this year as it produces positive outcomes for the past five years. From 2011 to 2015, the region was able to plant a total of 51,487,064 seedlings in 72,113 hectares with a total survival rate of 89 percent. Out of the total accomplishment in the entire region, Agusan del Norte developed an area of 9,449 hectares planted with 5,789,075 seedlings; Agusan del Sur has an area development of 37,887.53 hectares planted with 19,988,147 seedlings; Surigao del Norte has an area development of 6,081.11 hectares planted with 4,640,740 seedlings; Surigao del Sur has an area development of 12,798 hectares planted with 9,127,702 seedlings; while Dinagat Province contributed an area development of 1,306.56 hectares planted with 797,400 seedlings.

DENR Caraga declares NGP Accomplishment from 2011-2015

Maria Catherine M. Gonzaga

Out of these accomplishments, 6,806.07 hectares were planted with 18,044,462 mangrove seedlings within the coastal areas of the region putting into consideration the possibilities of storm surges. Mangroves are known to be the first line of defense when it comes to coastal communities. “We would like to acknowledge our brothers and sisters in the Indigenous communities who took part in the success of this program. The Indigenous People’s Organizations in the entire region planted a total of 5,716,886 seedlings in a total area of 12,808 hectares. It is notable that they are with us in our advocacy for environmental protection and conservation,” DENR Caraga Regional Director Nonito M. Tamayo said. The mining companies in the region also initiated to develop a total area of 3,363 hectares planted with 3,879,056 seedlings of different species which serves as an additional accomplishment of the region. “Our joint effort is the true key to the success of this program. Let us continue to encourage everyone to plant trees because a tree planted is a life saved” Director Tamayo said. ▄

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10 January - March 2016

The winning entry of PENRO Agusan del Norte during the recent Mangrove and Beach Forest Development Project Poster Presentation during the Post Project Assessment held at the Waterfront Pavillion Hotel, Ermita, Manila on February 5-6, 2016.

PENRO ADN bags first prize in MBFDP poster fete

Maria Catherine M. Gonzaga

The Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office in Agusan del Norte headed by PENRO Pat Olivera recently won first prize in the Mangrove and Beach Forest Development Project Poster Presentation during the Post Project Assessment held at Waterfront Pavillion Hotel, Ermita, Manila on

February 5-6, 2016.

Out of the 36 provinces, the poster produced by the office which highlights the elements of technology application, social mobilization/ cash for work scheme, and sustainability mechanism has able to capture the interest of the judges paving the way to bagging the first prize.

Judging of winners was based on the criteria which include: 50%-contents/information presented, 30%-organization of elements and colors, and 20%-over all appeal to audience.

The winners are PENRO Agusan del Norte-first prize bringing home 30,000 pesos, Province of Bohol-2nd prize, and the Provinces of Quezon and Cantanduanes which tied for the 3rd prize.

The activity was held simultaneously with the healthy competition among DENR Regional Directors through a paper presentation of project accomplishments on the implementation of the MBFDP wherein DENR Caraga made it to the 4th place. (with reports from PBO 2016). ▄

DENR Caraga Regional Director Nonito M. Tamayo together with ARD for Technical Services Roberto A. Oliveros, ARD

for Management Services Engr. Paquito D. Melicor Jr. and CENR Officer of Tubod Ruel Efren visited the mangrove sites in

Taganaan, Surigao del Norte on January 27, 2016.▄

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DENR Caraga Regional Director Nonito M. Tamayo acknowledges the group of youth performing around the region to spread joy and love to their fellow Caraganons. ▄

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DENR 13 Regional Director Nonito M. Tamayo made an appeal to the people in the upland barangays to exercise care of the forest by avoiding kaingin farming in the midst of severe dry spell brought

about by El Niño phenomenon.

“Forest fire can be prevented by avoiding any activity that could trigger fire from withered leaves”,

Director Tamayo said.

He said uncontrolled fire in the forest would affect the tree seedlings planted in different sites of the National Greening Program.

The El Niño phenomenon which is an abnormal pattern caused by the warming of the Pacific area near the equator, has been observed by the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Service Administration (PAGASA). El Niño weather occurs when the normal trade winds weakens (or even reverse) which allows the warm water usually found in the Western Pacific to flow instead towards the

DENR Exec appeals to upland dwellers to avoid kaingin farming

Herzon F. Gallego

east. This warm water displaces the cooler water that is normally found near the surface of the eastern Pacific region, setting off atmospheric changes that affect weather patterns in many parts of the world. The abnormal weather phenomenon may last until May this year.

The PENR and CENR officers were also instructed to increase their monitoring activities in the NGP sites in their respective area of jurisdiction so that the members of the different private organizations engaged on NGP are properly guided and informed of the abnormal weather pattern. “They should check and ensure availability of sufficient water supply in

communities,” he said.

Director Tamayo said priority has been given to strict monitoring of protected areas which are considered habitat for endangered species of plants and animals for potential outbreak of forest fires. ▄

January - March 2016

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DENR Regional Director Nonito M. Tamayo has urged the people in Butuan City and Caraga Region to participate in the observance of the “Earth Hour” on March 19 (Saturday) by switching off the lights from 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm to show support to the worldwide campaign against global climate

change and global warming effects.

Every family was encouraged to join and

participate in the Earth Hour by the DENR.

“Earth Hour is not just about switching off of lights but rather aims to instill awareness to the people that we should switch to a low carbon lifestyle to lessen our carbon footprints. We caused the problem, therefore, we should make the

solution,” Director Tamayo said.

The Ozone layer or ozone shield is affected by heavy concentrations of carbon and other harmful gasses. It refers to a region of Earth's stratosphere that absorbs most of the Sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The layer contains high concentration of ozone (O3) relative to other parts of the atmosphere, although, still very small relative

to other gases in the stratosphere.

DENR urges people to participate in the Earth Hour

Herzon F. Gallego

The Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and other halogenated ozone depleting substances (ODS) are mainly responsible for man-made chemical ozone depletion resulting to global

warming.

Director Tamayo said the earth’s climate system has been greatly affected by the global warming resulting to occurrences of deadly super typhoons and the El Niño phenomenon such as what some parts of the Philippines is

experiencing now.

“From 2009 to 2013, the Philippines registered the most number of participating individuals which leads to being labelled as the

Earth Hour Hero Country” Director Tamayo said.

He said a total of 124 cities from around the world are joining the Earth Hour. “We should inspire others to reduce greenhouse gas emission and carbon footprint and improve the way food, water, and energy are produced and

consumed” Director Tamayo said. ▄

Stakeholders of the Agusan Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary including the representatives from the Tourism Office of the Provincial Local Government Unit of Agusan del Sur, the People’s Organizations and communities within the AMWS, NCIP, the Municipal Local Government Units of the towns covered by the AMWS and DENR put into practice their learning experience on how to identify and count water birds in a strategic area in the Agusan Marsh as part of the weeklong Waterbird Identification, Monitoring, and Guiding with Biodiversity Monitoring System (BMS) Training last January 18-23, 2016 at the Paseo de San Francisco Suites in San Francisco, Agusan del Sur. (Photo by: JTC)

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DENR Caraga Regional Director Nonito M. Tamayo (with an eyeglass) leads the massive mangrove tree planting activity with the personnel of the DENR Caraga Region in celebrating of the International Day of Forests at the USS Narwhal Memorial Complex, Nasipit, Agusan del Norte on March 21, 2016. (photo by Catherine Gonzaga)

DENR Caraga initiates mangrove tree planting for International Day of Forests

Maria Catherine M. Gonzaga

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources Caraga Region celebrated the International Day of Forests with mangrove tree planting activity at the shores of the USS Narwhal Memorial Complex, Nasipit, Agusan del Norte on March 21, 2016. The International Day of Forests is observed every 21st day of March each year. IDF aims to raise awareness of the importance of all types of forests and trees outside forests for the benefit of current and future generations. “We are celebrating the International Day of Forests with the theme: Forests and Water. Both are necessity in our daily lives, each deserves to be taken cared of,” DENR Caraga Regional Director Nonito M. Tamayo said. “Forested watersheds and wetlands supply 75 percent of the world’s accessible freshwater. Therefore, let us join our hands together for the protection of our forest” he said.

The event was attended by more than 100 personnel from DENR Caraga Regional Office, the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office of Nasipit, and the Local Government Unit of Nasipit, Agusan del Norte. The participants have planted a total of 1, 500 seedlings of aviccena, bruguiera, and tangal, species of mangrove. “Mangroves are our first line of defense from storm surges in the coastal communities. This provides protection against sea water surges during strong typhoons on the people living along the shorelines” Director Tamayo said. At the planting site, the seedlings were planted in a way that would form the words “I LOVE NASIPIT” which will be visible from an aerial view. This is also part of the advocacy of the CENR Office in that area to maintain Narwhal Memorial Complex as one of the tourist spots in the province of Agusan del Norte. ▄

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14 January - March 2016

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A live Philippine Deer was rescued by a farmer in the remote Barangay of Basag, in Butuan Ci ty on the even ing o f February 1, 2016 when it fell into a deep irrigation canal in that

area.

For. Modesto U. Lagumbay, head of t h e D E N R - 1 3 Enforcement Division said the deer had escaped from the cage being maintained at the Wildlife Rescue Center operated by the Archdiocese of Butuan City Bishop Juan De

Dios Pueblos.

He said the deer was probably foraging and strayed farther when it fell on the canal and struggled for some time when it was

found.

According to Francisco Yagung, 48, who came to extract the deer from its helpless situation, he heard the cry of the deer at a

distance while he was preparing to go to bed.

He said when he went out to find what it was, he saw the deer struggling his way up to the ground. “The deer was exhausted” Yagung said. “I decided to bring the deer to the DENR in the morning for fear that I might be criminally

charged in court for possessing it,” he said.

The Philippine deer (Rusa marianna), also known as the Philippine sambar or the Philippine Brown Deer, is a species of deer that is native to the forests and grasslands, on most larger islands of the Philippines. The only major islands where it is not commonly found are in Negros, Panay, Palawan, Sulu, and

the Babuyan and Batanes island groups.

It is classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN due to its increasingly fragmented populations as a result of habitat loss and

hunting.

A live Philippine deer (Rusa marianna) was caught by a farmer at a remote Barangay Basag on the east side of Butuan City after it strayed for a while but found himself trapped on a deep irrigation canal last night. He was rescued by Francisco Yagong and brought to the DENR Regional Office where it was taken to the animal welfare rescue center at the Bishop Palace in Barangay Ampayon by the personnel of the DENR-13 Enforcement Division under Modesto U. Lagumbay,Jr. (Photo by Herzon F. Gallego, RPAO-13). ▄

Live Philippine Deer rescued in Butuan City

The Philippine deer is a medium-sized species, but is generally much smaller than its cousin, the Sambar Deer. Head-and-body length is 100 to 151 cm (39 to 59 in), shoulder height is 55 to 70 cm (22 to 28 in) and body weight is 40 to 60 kg (88 to 132 lbs). It is mostly brown in color, with the exception of the underside of the tail, which is white. Some cases in Mindanao have shown that the deer’s coat is said to be a pale, sandy grey color. The antlers of the male are quite small, usually having a length of 20 to 40 cm (7.9

to 15.7 in).

This species can be found in a variety of habitats in the Philippines. They may be found anywhere from wooded lowlands to forested mountain slopes or places that are up to 2,900 meters (9,500 ft) above sea level. The mating season commonly occurs from September to January, with females giving birth to a single fawn marked with light colored spots that disappear after a few weeks. During the rut, females may form small groups of up to eight individuals, but

the males remain solitary and are aggressive.

The Philippine deer is nocturnal. Most activities are done at night while they rest in the dense forest thickets by day. They generally congregate around natural forest openings,

eating grass, leaves, fallen fruits, and berries.

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DENR reports low confiscation of forest

products for 2015

The sustained operation of the DENR Enforcement Teams in coordination with the Philippine National Police and the Philippine Army has brought down incidence of timber poaching activities in Caraga Region in 2015.

The DENR Enforcement Division reported that there were 1,101,415.91 bd. ft. of confiscated illegal forest products last year as

compared to 3,837,143.20 bd. ft. in 2012.

“The anti-illegal logging campaign under the implementation of EO 23 of the DENR had paid off in the region since it was imposed in February 2011”, Forester Modesto U. Lagumbay Jr., Chief of the DENR-13 Enforcement Division said. “We hope we can reach our goal of zero illegal logging for the next six months,” he added.

The DENR Caraga confiscated 2,102,643.38 bd.ft in 2011; 3,837,143.20 bd.ft. in 2012; 1,304,183.78 bd.ft. in 2013; 1,887,131.25 bd.ft. in 2014 and 1,101,415.91 bd.ft. in 2015. The agency reported a total confiscation of 10,232,517.52 bd.ft. of forest products for the last five years with a total of 142 cases filed in court against the perpetrators since 2011 and out of these, 31 individuals were convicted.

Meanwhile, more than one-third of the total confiscated illegal forest products by the DENR were donated to various national and local government agencies. DENR Caraga disposed a total volume of 4,925,495.92 bd.ft. to DepEd (545,940.04 bd.ft.) TESDA (1,626,530.00 bd.ft.); LGUs (916,703.31 bd.ft.); AFP/PNP/BJMP (1,197,748.62 bd.ft.); DSWD (8,480.00 bd.ft.); DPWH (21,327.20 bd.ft.); EMB (1,463.62 bd.ft.); DENR - DOST - FPRDI - NNVS (28,017.03 bd.ft.); and other agencies (75,675.30 bd.ft).

The region continues to promote the government’s target for a “zero-illegal logging hotspot” together with the consistent advocacy for total log ban for the year 2016. (Herzon F.

Gallego with reports from Hannah Yael Morano) ▄

DENR 13 key officers got new assignment

In a continuing effort to deliver better services to the people, DENR 13 Regional Director Nonito M. Tamayo has announced on January 11, 2016 the designation of certain key personnel in the field offices.

The key personnel who have been given new assignments are the following: Forester Maritess M. Ocampo was assigned as OIC, PENR Officer of Agusan del Sur; Forester Nilda Ebron was designated as OIC, Chief of the Conservation and Development Division including the operation of the Protected Area and Biodiversity Conservation, Production Forest Management and Coastal Resource and Foreshore Management sections.

PENRO Rosendo Asunto has been assigned to PENRO Surigao del Norte from Surigao del Sur; CENRO Raul Rosales took over as OIC, PENRO of Surigao del Sur.

Forester Ranulfo Climaco has been designated as OIC, CENRO of Bunawan, Agusan del Sur while Forester Luis Gonzaga was designated OIC, Chief for Technical Services of PENRO Surigao del Norte.

The movement of key personnel followed the vacuum in the field management caused by the sudden death of PENRO Iniego Collantes from cardiac arrest or heart failure on January 1, 2016 (Herzon F. Gallego). ▄

The Philippine deer was introduced to Guam by the Spanish governor Mariano Tobias between 1770 and 1774 as a game species (William Edwin Safford, 1905). Although scarce in its native range in the Philippines, it is abundantly found in many areas of Guam, posing serious threats to plant communities

by overgrazing.

It was also introduced to Rota, Saipan, and to the United States. There is also a small free-ranging population in South Florida, below the Keys, Patahorn by Victoria Texas Coast, and the Santa Lucia Mountains of California that is descended from escapees from the nearby Hearst Ranch. The domesticated population did not take hold like they did

in Guam. (Herzon F. Gallego with Wikipedia report) ▄

16 January - March 2016

16

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources Caraga in collaboration with the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) has organized the Agusan River Basin Governing Board (ARBGB) in a recent meeting held at the

Bishop’s Home in Ampayon, Butuan City.

The meeting was presided over by Rev. Fr. Carlito L. Clase, the ARBGB Vice Chairperson. It was attended by more or less 40

members of the governing board.

“This activity was undertaken in order to institutionalize and strengthen the Agusan River Basin Governing Board (ARBGB) as the governing body in the management of the Agusan

River Basin” Fr. Clase said.

DENR Caraga and MINDA pushed for ARB governing board institutionalization

Maria Catherine M. Gonzaga

The ARB Governing Board is composed of 7 Governors, 1 City Mayor, Acamede (FSUU), PIA (Media), AFP, PNP, NGO/CSO, Religious Sector, NGAs (DENR XIII, NEDA XIII, MinDA, NCIP XIII), IP/ICCs Representative and desig-

nated permanent representatives.

“Through this undertaking, we are hoping that we are getting close to the finalization of the Agusan River Basin Master Plan. This plan will help the people especially those who are highly- dependent on the river for survival” For. Maritess M. Ocampo, DENR Caraga ARB focal person

said.

ARBGB will have a regular meeting every

three months to ensure proper coordination. ▄

DENR Caraga awards Champions of Climate Change Advocacy

Maria Catherine M. Gonzaga

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources Caraga Region has conferred awards to its partners in the Climate Change Advocacy during the Environmental Youth Forum held at the Big Daddy’s Hotel and Convention

Center, Butuan City on March 15, 2016.

“It is in our mandate to protect and conserve the environment and we can effectively do the work with the support of our partners through the information, education, and communication campaign,” DENR Caraga

Regional Director Nonito M. Tamayo said.

“Media partners like the Philippine Information Agency and the Presidential Communications Operations Office contribute to the success of the DENR programs and projects”

he said.

The awardees are PIA Caraga, PCOO, ABS-CBN Butuan, Hope Radio Philippines, Manila Bulletin, Mindanao News Courier, Mindanao Centro Daily, Radyo Trumpeta, Bombo Radyo Butuan, Radyo ng Bayan, Caraga

Commentators Club, DXRR Radyo serbisyo

Nasipit, and DXDA Radyo Agusan.

The awardees were given plaques and certificates of recognition for their continuous support in the climate change advocacy which paves the way to changing lives of the people in

Caraga.

The tribute to the climate change advocacy partners of the DENR was conducted as part of the 2016 Environmental Youth Forum with the theme “One Voice. One Goal. Multiple Action,” which was attended by about 110 participants which include teachers, students, youth desk officers, media practitioners, and

DENR personnel.

“We hope that we all continue to take care of our environment. We need the support of the people in all walks of life, with our single voices, let us promote one goal, and from there, let us create multiple actions that will benefit our

environment” Director Tamayo said. ▄

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DENR Caraga Regional Director Nonito M. Tamayo and Assistant Regional Director Roberto A. Oliveros pose with a fisher folk who volunteered to take part in the simultaneous mangrove tree planting activity in celebration of the International Day of Forests held at the USS Narwhal Memorial Complex, Nasipit, Agusan del Norte. (Photo by Catherine Gonzaga)▄

DENR Caraga supports info dissemination campaign for West Philippine Sea Issue

Maria Catherine M. Gonzaga

Joint with common advocacy, about 150 information officers, student leaders, security officers and media practitioners have gathered in a Multi-Sectoral Forum on the West Philippine Sea Issue held at the Dottie’s Place and Convention

Center, Butuan City on January 26, 2016.

The forum was initiated by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) in coordination with the Civil Military Operation (CMO) of the 4th Infantry Division. The forum focuses on the government’s position on the West Philippine Sea issue by providing a deeper understanding of the case filed by the Philippine government with the Arbitral

Tribunal.

“We believe that through proper information dissemination, the Philippines will have greater chance to understand this issue. All the Filipinos should know why we are fighting for this. The Philippine Government and the Filipino people are determined to defend what is legitimately ours,” Maria Teresa T. Almojuela, DFA Executive Director for Maritime and Oceans

Affairs Office said.

The Philippines’ arbitration case is not about determining sovereignty over territories as maritime boundary delineation. Its goal is to solve

the issue in the most diplomatic and peaceful way.

“We believe that “Right is Might” over “Might is Right”. War is never an option. We are based on the law and in accordance to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea which is the “Constitution of the Oceans” we are on the right track. As what President Aquino said, “What is ours

is ours,” Almojuela said.

The forum aims to educate all the Filipinos about the issue. Every fact about this was clearly discussed to the participants. Visuals like documentaries, comic books, and brochures were distributed to make the materials appealing to the

eyes of the participants and capture their attention.

“To date, regions have been visited by our team. Four (4) more to go and we will achieve our goal to educate all the Filipinos about the West Philippine Sea Issue” Emelyn Q. Libunao, Staff

Director of PIA PMD Central Office said.

“Amidst all these, we maintain that our dis-pute in the West Philippine Sea is not the sum total of our relation with China. Our differences are in offi-cial policies, not socio-cultural. Thus, we should still maintain good relationship with them in other

aspects,” Almojuela said. ▄

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January - March 2016 18

Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio B. Coloma Jr. together with PIA Caraga have acknowledged the efforts of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Caraga Region for initiating a regular radio program entitled “Oras sa Kinaiyahan” during the Multi-Sectoral Forum on the West Philippine Sea Issue at the Dottie’s Place and Convention Center on January 26,

2016.

DENR Caraga Regional Director Nonito M. Tamayo extended his warmest thanks to the Secretary and PIA Caraga for their appreciation

and support to the region’s initiatives.

“The partnership of DENR with PIA in the Climate Change advocacy and other environmental programs has changed lives and inspired new beginnings” PIA Caraga Regional

Director Abner Caga said.

Secretary Coloma gave emphasis to the successful implementation of the National

Greening Program (NGP) and the Anti-Illegal

Logging Campaign in the region.

“DENR Caraga is notable for challenging the current mindsets and practices in terms of environmental management and development leading to the successful implementation of its

programs and projects,” Secretary Coloma said.

“On behalf of DENR Caraga, I would like to give thanks to Secretary Coloma and PIA Caraga for appreciating our efforts. Rest assured that we will continue to promote environmental awareness in the most creative way we can to inform and educate the public regarding environmental protection and conservation”

Director Tamayo said.

During the forum, the anchors of the Radio Program, Rejoice Chavez and Forester Edito Tocle were also given recognition. Both of them were honored as they committed to

continue giving their best service to the public. ▄

Secretary Coloma acknowledges DENR Caraga’s “Oras sa Kinaiyahan” radio program

Maria Catherine M. Gonzaga

Winners of the 2015 Search for Sustainable and Eco-friendly Schools bared

Regina Charito C. Ga

The DENR commended the winners of the 2015 Search for Sustainable and Eco-friendly Schools - Regional level on January 20, 2016.

The finalists for the Elementary Category are Melquiades N. Cagasa Elementary School, Surigao City, 2nd place, Sukailang Elementary School, Surigao City 3rd place, Mainit Central Elementary School, Surigao del Norte, 4th place and Taligaman Elementary School, Butuan City, 5th place. While the finalists for the high school category includes Barobo National High School, Surigao del Sur, 2nd place, Agusan del Sur National High School, Agusan del Sur,3rd place, Anomar National High School, Surigao City, 4th place and La Soledad National High School, Butuan City, 5th place.

The Barobo National High School,

Surigao del Sur and Puerto Princesa Elementary School, Dinagat Island have received the Nestle Water Conservation Award. The Meralco Energy Leadership Award was awarded to the Matin-ao National High School,Surigao del Norte and Puerto Princesa Elementary School,Dinagat Island.

The Regional Winners are Matin-ao National High School, Surigao del Norte and Puerto Princesa Elementary School, Dinagat Island.

The search is a joint activity of the DENR through the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB), the Department of Education (DepEd), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Smart Communications, Inc. and Nestle Philippines, Inc. and Meralco Energy. ▄

19

DENR Caraga Regional Director Nonito M. Tamayo (2nd from left) awards a Certificate of Recognition and a cash prize of 5,000 pesos to Kitcharao National High School for winning the 1st Prize in the Radio Plug Making Contest during the 2016 Environmental Youth Forum on March 15, 2016 at the Big Daddy’s Hotel and Convention Center, Butuan City. Also in the photo are, from left the Chief of the DENR Regional Public Affairs Office, Herzon F. Gallego; National Youth Desk Officer, Maria Magnolia Danganan; and DepEd representative Frengie Botoy (far right).

DENR Caraga hosts the 1st Environmental Youth Forum

Maria Catherine M. Gonzaga

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources Caraga Region through the Regional Public Affairs Office conducted the first Environmental Youth Forum in the Region at the Big Daddy’s Hotel and Convention Center,

Butuan City on March 15, 2016.

The forum with the theme “One Voice. One Goal. Multiple Action.” was attended by about 110 participants including teachers, students, youth desk officers, media practitioners, and DENR

personnel.

“Our goal is to strengthen the IEC Campaign in the region” DENR Caraga

Regional Director Nonito M. Tamayo said.

“We want to encourage the youth to take part in environmental protection and conservation. The forum aims to cater the potentials of the students and hopefully use them in worthy endeavors that would save the

environment” he said.

Part of the forum is a radio plug/advertisement making contest. This was participated by Grade 7 students from the different

public schools in Agusan del Norte. Kitcharao National High School bagged the first prize followed by Doña Rosario National High School in 2nd place and Santiago National High School in the

3rd place.

The winning entry was awarded with 5,000 pesos and a certificate of recognition. This radio plug will be aired through different radio stations like Hope Radio Philippines and DXRR Radyo Serbisyo Nasipit, to encourage the young people

to express their talent through radio.

Three lectures were lined-up for the forum. The speakers include Communications Development Officer II Maria Catherine Gonzaga, National Youth Desk Officer Maria Magnolia Danganan, and Caraga Youth Desk Officer

Forester Celeste Paler.

“The youth has a great role in nation building, they are considered to be the key to a greener and a brighter future. At this early age, they should be nurtured to be the environmental defenders of the new generation” Director Tamayo

said. ▄

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http://caraga.denr.gov.ph Official Website of DENR Caraga

www.facebook.com/denr13.rpao DENR 13 Communications Development Office

http://issuu.com/cdo-caraga Communications Development Office Caraga IEC Materials

http://issuu.com/kasikas Kasikas sa Kinaiyahan

DENR Caraga Regional Director Nonito M. Tamayo (center) inspects the 14-feet-long Reticulated Python captured within the DENR Caraga compound on February 18, 2016 at 7:38 o’clock in the morning. The said python weighs 20 kilograms. Together with Director Tamayo are Enforcement Division Officer-in-Charge Ruel Ladaga, Enforcement Staff Marlon Tesiorna, and Forest Technician II Jun Araojo. ▄

14-feet-long Python captured at the DENR compound

Maria Catherine M. Gonzaga

A 14-feet-long Reticulated Python was captured at the DENR Caraga Regional Office compound on February 18, 2016 after it dropped off from the ceiling of the agency’s Canteen.

The python weighs 20 kilograms with brown and yellow skin color. It was captured by Marlon Tesiorna, Enforcement Division Staff of

the Regional Office.

“Upon opening the canteen, I heard that something fell from the ceiling but I did not mind it until I went to the fridge and saw a huge snake roaming on the ground. I was terrified and immediately reported it to the enforcement division” Canteen Chef Almiro Polison said.

Marlon Tesiorna immediately responded to the report of Polison and with the help of other DENR personnel within the area, the

snake was successfully captured.

“I was sudden by the news that a reticulated python was found right at the compound of our office but nevertheless, I would like to commend our personnel for the immediate response and proper control of the situation” Director Tamayo said.

Enforcement Division Officer-in-Charge Ruel Ladaga said that the snakes like python usually go out during summer season to find a colder place to live.

“After capturing the said python, we immediately decided to release it back to its natural habitat. As much as possible, we would like to maintain its capacity to adapt to its environment” Ladaga said.

The python was released at Barangay Tagabaca, Butuan City on the same day. ▄