NPAs attack soldiers, civilians; i dead, 2 hurt

By Myds Supnad

CAMP AQUINO, Tarlac City-Local officials and Northern Luzon army soldiers decried the attack on civilians and government forces carrying relief goods but were allegedly ambushed by suspected New People’s Army  rebels killing one soldier and wounding two others in Aurora.

"The excitement of the local children at Singawan Elementary School  in receiving their gifts turned trauma from a terrifying NPA ambush," said the Army in a statement sent to newsmen.

 On August 19, at about 10 a.m. ,the army claimed that while the Charlie Company, 56th Infantry Battalion, 7th Infantry (KAUGNAY) Division, Philippine Army and the Local Government Unit of Dingalan, Aurora were on their way to deliver the gifts to the children of Sitio Singawan Elementary School, Barangay Umiray, Dingalan town, Aurora aboard two motorboats, an undetermined number of NPA rebels suddenly attacked and fired on the motorboats.

 The civilians got panicked   causing the boat to capsize. The security troops led by 2nd Lt. Ghelyn Batomalaque, defended and secured their group and traded shots with the rebels. 

However, one soldier was killed and two others wounded from the government. 

Casualty from the NPA remains undetermined.

 The Mayor of Dingalan, Aurora, Sherwin Taay who was the head of the gift-giving activity also denounced the NPA attack.

       He said the incident only served to strengthen them in performing their civic responsibilities to the people of Sitio Singawan.

Maj.Gen. Angelito de Leon, , commander of the 7th Infantry Division, Philippine Army,   ordered pursuit operation against the alleged NPAs.

Application for MP stude financial assistance opens

BONTOC, Mountain Province – The provincial government is now accepting applications of college students who would like to avail of its financial aid in the amount of P4, 000 every semester.

The Mountain Province Student Financial Assistance Program (MPSFAP) is one of special programs of the provincial government that caters to poor but deserving students of Mountain Province who are enrolled at the Mountain Province Polytechnic College (MPSPC) and other institutions within and outside Mountain Province.

According to Simonette Clyde Fang-asan of the office of the governor, former grantees of the program and new applicants are given until Sept. 15 to submit all requisites at the executive assistant’s section provincial governor’s office, 2^nd Floor of the Provincial Capitol.

Selection of grantees depends on occupation and income of an applicant’s parents; number of children in the family; and civil status of the applicant- orphans, working students and members of a single-parent family are given priority.

As part of the process, interested applicants must submit an application letter or letter of intent signifying interest to be included as a grantee addressed to the governor; duly-accomplished application forms of which are available at the Office of the Governor; true copy of grades; and certificate of enrollment. Grantees who want to be renewed must submit copy of grades and certificate of enrollment.

Also, a grantee of the program must finish the course he/she is enrolled in within the expected number of years for the course’s completion. Moreover, one must be currently enrolled and must attend convocations and other activities organized for the MPSFAP grantees.

An applicant or a grantee can be disqualified or removed from the list if he/she has a failing grade and does not submit all the requirements before the set deadline of submission. -- Alpine L. Killa

Ilocos Norte’s Marcos cited ‘top performing governor’

LAOAG CITY -- The Department of Interior and Local Government cited Gov. Imee R. Marcos on top of an honor list containing 10 governors, highlighting their support against illegal drugs.  

 "They have proven to be very good administrators and very good governors," said DILG Sec. Ismael Sueno, adding the list was based not only on effects of the governors' anti-drug programs and operations, but rather on holistic evaluation of provincial security, including disaster preparedness, transparent governance, and business competitiveness.

 "The first requisite of development is peace and order," Gov. Marcos had said in her 2015 State of the Province Address. In the past year, she strengthened PGIN's partnership with the Ilocos Norte Police Provincial Office (INPPO), headed by Acting Provincial Director Senior Supt. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., by building personnel and logistics capability and empowering the Ilocano community for crime prevention and reporting.

 This citation follows the Plaque of Merit for being the Most Outstanding Local Government Unit presented to Gov. Marcos during the 115^th Police Service Anniversary of the Philippine National Police last August 17.

 "Here in Ilocos Norte, the PGIN has been very supportive, very active.. actually, proactive, kasi siya na mismo ang nagpu-push. Siya na mismo ang nagbibigay ng idea… and ini-implement namin," shared Nartatez.

 He enumerated support extended by provincial government to INPPO, such as motorcycle donations, firepower, protective gear, search-and-rescue equipment, and most recently, the provision of a K-9 unit of three dogs capable of sniffing out illegal drugs and firearms.

Also cited was KALASAG program, which stands for Kabataan Laban sa Droga, organized in close partnership with the Ilocos Norte Youth Office (INYO).

The PNP lauded Gov. Marcos' efforts to pool development from the cultural and business sectors, collaborating them for a holistic approach to community security and progress in Ilocos Norte.

 In the past eight months, the average weekly street crime incidence in Ilocos Norte has fallen from 15 to seven, sometimes reaching as low as two in a week, according to the INPPO.

 Nartatez said that it is such indicators that led to "the pronouncement of the DILG that Governor Imee is the top performing governor in the entire Philippines."

 "We want to lengthen our lead in all areas… education, culture, and job creation," Gov. Marcos said, emphasizing the ultimate goal of inclusive and holistic development.—Mizpah Grace G. Castro

Ifugao heirloom rice now high-value crop

By Florida Robles

LAGAWE, Ifugao -- The heirloom rice of Ifugao is not anymore an ordinary rice but is now considered high-value crop.

Agriculture Secretary Piñol bared this here saying the DA will support heirloom rice farmers but will also introduce dairy farming in the province.

Piñol said during his recent visit to the province that on November, a trade fair will be held in Urban California and one of products that they will be bringing is the heirloom rice of Ifugao.

He also invited Rep. Teddy B. Baguilat and Gov. Pedro G. Mayam-o to attend the event.

Baguilat told Piñol the Ifugao people will support the President and the DA the next six years.

       Though it was just a short visit because he said he needed to catch his flight back to Manila for his only grandchild’s birthday, he promised to come back August 31 for longer discussion on how to help farmers improve agriculture in Ifugao.

The reason why he roams around the country, he said, is because he wants to know the needs and wants of farmers first-hand.  “I have always believed farmers that’s why I understand farming. It will always be the farmers who know what is best for them.”

Piñol dropped by Camat residence in Lamut, Ifugao from Cagayan.

A warm welcome was given by provincial officials led by Baguilat and Mayam-o and farmers.

The governor also welcomed DA regional director Dr. Lorenzo M. Caranguian, public officials, farmers, and local folks who attended the dinner. 

Benguet gov suspends small scale mining ops

LA TRINIDAD, Benguet – Gov. Crescenio Pacalso issued an order to  temporary suspend all small scale mining activities in the province due to the continuous heavy rains brought by the ’habagat’ or monsoon rains.

Pacalso issued the suspension order last week following non-stop rains being experienced in the province since last week. 

The move is to ensure safety and welfare of   small scale miners against imminent threats or adverse effects of the heavy rains. 

The suspension order came after the Mines and Geosciences Bureau – Cordillera issued an advisory to suspend all the small scale activities in the province.

The temporary suspension order shall remain in effect until further notice or fair weather warrants.  

According to the PAGASA Weather Bureau, the heavy rains are expected to be experience in the next five days.

The Cordillera Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council is still in Blue Alert status. -- JDP/RMC- PIA 

Government, private groups push Cordillera autonomy

BAGUIO CITY – Government and nongovernment organizations are now banding together to discuss and make recommendations on Cordillera autonomy even as the Duterte administration is pushing a federal form of government.   

Groups include Cordillera Administrative Region Association of State Universities and Colleges (CARASUC), University of the Philippines Baguio, and Regional Development Council through the National Economic Development Authority-CAR and the Cordillera Peoples Alliance (CPA).

Abigail Anongos, CPA secretary general bared this saying on August 29-30, a Cordillera elders workshop on regional autonomy will be conducted at Gladiola Hall, Benguet State University, La Trinidad, Benguet.

“This collaborative effort of the organizers aims to generate views and recommendations of indigenous elders and indigenous peoples mandatory representatives (IPMRs) on critical issues associated with regional autonomy and federalism which is being pushed by the Duterte administration,” Anongos said. 

“Their views and recommendations will contribute significantly in understanding how local autonomy is being practiced, asserted and defended by indigenous peoples, and how these can contribute towards building genuine regional autonomy in the Cordillera.”

Specifically, the workshop will look into the following: disintegration of traditional governance systems in relation to self-identity and ancestral territory; free, prior and informed consent (FPIC), conflict resolution; identification of mechanisms for the continuing participation of elders in understanding, framing and building regional autonomy in the Cordillera and federalism.

She added on Aug. 31, the stakeholders consultation on regional autonomy and federalism will take place still at Benguet State University for stakeholders to share their experiences on their advocacy of Cordillera regional autonomy and to draw lessons from these experiences; to situate the Cordillera Regional Autonomy discourse within the Duterte Administration’s program for federalism and the peace talks, and finally, to come up with resolutions and recommendations on these developments. 

DPWH told: Don’t reduce flood budget

  

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga — Provincial officials are asking the   Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to increase the agency’s budget for Pampanga in 2017 in order to fund additional flood-control projects.

Vice Governor Dennis Pineda said he will ask the Provincial Board (PB) to pass a resolution requesting DPWH not to cut budget for province’s flood control projects.

The resolution, Pineda said, aims to support the appeal of Gov. Lilia Pineda against the budget cut in DPWH’s projects in the province from P4.003 billion in 2016 to P2.27 billion in 2017.

Antonio Molano, DPWH director in Central Luzon, reported Wednesday the budget reduction in his presentation during the infrastructure preparedness meeting attended by Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, local officials, leaders of the Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PamCham) and heads of regional agencies at the Laus Group Events Centre here.

Molano reported that of the PHP31-billion proposed budget for Central Luzon next year, only P15 billion worth of projects were included in the National Expenditure Program for the General Appropriations Act.

The P31 billion proposed budget was confirmed by the Regional Development Council (RDC), according to Renato Romero, vice chair of PamCham and head of private sector representatives in the RDC, the highest policy-making body in the region.

Rep. Arroyo asked Molano to provide information on the 2016 DPWH regional budget, how this was spent and if savings were generated.

She said she would seek a budget increase if the information shows the need for such action.

Governor Pineda said the budget for flood control projects in Pampanga should not be reduced as the province is the catch basin of floodwaters coming from neighboring provinces such as Nueva Ecija. – Philippine News Agency

EMB orders Abra dump closure

BANGUED, Abra --  – A dump near Abra River here in Barangay Calaba has been closed upon order of the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources following complaints from neighboring towns. 

Waste from the dump reportedly swamped downstream communities during heavy rains.

Joyce Ann Mangsat, EMB officer, said affected residents would have to create their compost pits and learn waste segregation as well as proper solid waste management.

Mangsat said the local government would gather only non-biodegradable materials such as water bottles, tin cans, tires and rubber.     

POLICE ROUNDUP

PNP chief De La Rosa to grace PNP anniversary

CAMP DANGWA, Benguet – Police Director General Ronald “Bato” M. De La Rosa  will be guest of honor and speaker in observance of “115^th PNP Police Service Anniversary” here on  Sept 2.

Activities include cultural presentation, awarding of medal to Philippine National Police personnel, marijuana burning, blessing and turnover of vehicles, lunch-forum with local chief executives and drug personalities, command and press conference.

Cordi PNP chief to Mt Prov bocaps: Join fight vs  drugs

BONTOC, Mountain Province, --  A ranking police officer rallied the members of the various Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Councils (BADAC) in the province to join the fight against illegal drugs.

Cordillera police director Chief Supt. Elmo Francis Sarona urged barangay officials to support illegal drug drive so as to free their respective communities from the illegal drug menace.

 Sarona recently visited the province to dialogue with the BADACs and local officials on campaign against illegal drugs.

Attended by more than 300 village and municipal officials that filled the Mt. Province Multi-Purpose Hall here, Sarona said their presence manifest their strong gesture to get rid of illegal drug problem which he said is very alarming.

Sarona called on officials to make it as a personal commitment to free their respective barangays from illegal drugs stressing that it a moral obligation of everybody to put a stop to the illegal drug trade which he said destroy and erode the moral fibers of some families.

He said barangay officials play crucial roles in the campaign against illegal drugs, they being at the grassroots and have direct contact with the people.

In the same dialogue, Police Supt. Brent Madjaco of the Regional Operations and Plans Division briefed the BADAC members on the PNP’s “Oplan Tokhang” and “Oplan Double Barrel”, the two main campaigns against illegal drugs is now intensively implemented nationwide.

Provincial police director Supt. Cornelio Comila said there are 276 drug personalities who already surrendered to the local police as a result of the implementation of the “Project Tokhang” or “Oplan Double Barrel” since July1. These came from the municipalities of Bauko, Bontoc, Paracelis, Sabangan, Sagada and Tadian.

President Rodrigo Duterte promised to rid the country of illegal drugs during the first six months of his term. -- Andrew Doga-ong

Ex-barangay captain  nabbed for illegal drugs

PINUKPUK, Kalinga – Police arrested Reynold Gongob, 38, married,  former punong barangay of Wagud here in a raid at his residence last week.

Gongob is the top-5 high value target in the Philippine National Police anti-illegal drugs operation in the province.

Armed with a search warrant issued by Circuit-Municipal Trial Court Judge Nympha Abbacan, police searched the house of Gongob in the presence of barangay and community leaders.

Among the illegal items confiscated  included   five heat-sealed sachets containing white crystalline substance believed to be shabu, one carbine rifle, six magazines of carbine rifle, one magazine of M-16 rifle, two  hand grenades, two  blasting caps, 15 rounds ammunition of carbine rifle and  nine  rounds ammunition of Cal. 45 pistol. The suspect, together with the confiscated contrabands, was brought to the Kalinga Provincial Police Office for investigation.

In a related report, 20 individuals from Barangays Lucong and Buscalan in Tinglayan municipality voluntarily surrendered to authorities.

Provincial police director Senior Supt. Victor Wanchakan said this is the result of the continuing massive operation against illegal drugs, particularly marijuana, in the area.

The police had raided hectares of marijuana plantation and destroyed thousands of fully grown marijuana stems in the area recently. -- Larry T. Lopez

1 nabbed, 9 drug suspects surrender  

BAGUIO CITY --   Six drug suspects surrendered here top cops last week. They were identified as Crispin Acosta Casugay 49;

Sarah Mae Dandoy Tombo, 24; Petchie Quijano Cadavid, 28; Anthony De Guzman Elegado, 37; Mardy Dela Cruz Vergara, 25 and Ardith Gillo Gerance, 30.

This, as  Emeterio Ceraon Mapili aka “Teriong” or aka “Melchor”, 52  was arrested here at Purok 3, Padre Zamora Monday in a buy bust operation. Shabu was confiscated from him.

Gilbert Jay Santiago Guevarra, 33 of Dontogan also surrendered including  Veronica Caramat Ustari, 42 and Edwin Refugia Fortes, 37, both of  Quezon Hill.

2 give selves up in Abra

Illegal drugs suspects surrendered to authorities in Abra last week.

In Lacub, Edison Sabado Murao, 22 surrendered to in the presence of Mayor Estelita B.  Bersamina after being tagged drug user.

In San Juan, town Emma Taa Bose, pusher, 53,barangay kagawad also surrendered to cops on Tuesday for illegal drug use.

In Bangued, Gerald Durables Viado, 47 and Lorie Ramos Viado, 43 also gave themselves up. Aries Viste Barcena, 23, single, miner, also surrendered in Baay Licuan Monday. In Tayum, Florentino Padagas Tejero, 35, also gave himself up including Mercy Bawanta Dargo, 33, of Boliney.

Farmer nabbed for attempted homicide

MANKAYAN, Benguet – A farmer was arrested here Tuesday for attempted homicide in Cada, Balili. Police identified the suspect as Christopher Wag-e Galuten, 33.  Jonathan Chavez Segundo, presiding Judge of Municipal “Trial Court, Mankayan issued warrant for his arrest with bail set at P50,000 for his temporary liberty.

 Man arrested for drugs on Apayao

STA. MARCELA, Apayao – A certain Regie Dela Cruz Pudiquet, 33 here was arrested Tuesday for illegal drugs. This after

Judge Richardson G. Agbisit, 5^th MCTC Flora-Sta. Marcela issued search warrant against him.

Barangay captain Bobby Daquioag and kagawads Tarcela Nacino and Ernesto Corpuz witnessed the search which resulted to confiscation of shabu  and drug paraphernalia.

Ex-vice mayor turns over gun

LUBA, -- Leonardo Cabayongan Dumaguing, 68, former vice-mayor  turned over a Cal. 45 pistol without ammunition to police after cops visited his house as part of anti-drugs drive.

Government employee jailed for estafa

BAGUIO CITY – A certain Juliet Lara, 56, government employee, and  resident of Bengao, Bakakeng Central here was arrested Tuesday at City Hall for estafa. Emmanuel Cacho Rasing, presiding judge, Regional Trial Court, First Judicial Region, Branch 3, Baguio City issued warrant for her arrest.

Lara was sentenced to prison by the court affirmed by the Court of Appeals to four Years and two months. Lara is now detained at the city jail.

 Aurora Hill bungalow burned 

BAGUIO CITY --  A bungalow at No. 226 Lower Brookspoint, Aurora Hill here was burned around 2 a.m. Tuesday. Police said the house was owned by Domingo Lukaya Ramos, 69. Investigation disclosed the fire started due to faulty wiring.

Responding firemen led by SF03 Ceasar Bangcawayan declared fire out at around 4:30 a.m. The interior part of the house was totally burned.

Man shot in drinking spree

PILAR, Abra – A man died here after being shot during a drinking spree Tuesday around 11:30 p.m. Police said they received a call from Villaviciosa Medicare and Community Hospital that a shooting incident transpired  at Dalit, Pilar, The victim was identified as Randy Disono Peralta, 27, farmer, while the suspect was a certain Roel Peralta Disono aka Galboy, 34, farmer, both residents of the place.

 Police said Randy and Roel along with their companions were having a drinking spree at the house of the victim when a heated argument ensued between the suspect and the victim. After a few minutes the suspect shot the victim and fled to unknown direction. The victim was shot on his stomach and was immediately rushed to VMH and further transferred to Abra Provincial Hospital, Bangued but was declared dead on arrival. The suspect is now the subject of manhunt operation by police. 

Guide against NPA rebels found dead 

BAUKO, Mountain Province – A former member of local auxiliary force of Barangay Balintaugan here was found dead here Monday around 7 a.m. along a pathway in Sitio Gutang.

The victim was identified as John Libed Angtan, 35, Investigation revealed around 9 p.m. of August 21, five unidentified armed persons (four males and one female) invited the victim to accompany them to Gutang to meet barangay captain Mathias Angayen. He was later found lifeless with multiple gunshot wounds  by a passerby the following morning.

Accordingly, the victim has been utilized by government troops as informant and guide during combat operation against communist rebels  operating in the province.

            The victim’s cadaver was subjected to autopsy.

Abra businessman nabbed for murder

BAUANG, La Union – A businessman of Bangued, Abra was arrested here Monday for murder and falsification of public documents. The suspect was named as Robert James Doctora, 30 of Barangay Agtangao, Bangued, and resident of Acao, Bauang.

Judge Corpuz B. Alzate of Regional Trial Court, First Judicial Region, Branch 2, Bangued, issued warrants for his arrest earlier recommending no bail for murder charge and bail of P16,000 for falisification.

A Cal. 45 handgun loaded with five guns was recovered inside his black Ford Everest registered to a certain Christoph Klapper St. Josefa Ville 1, Angeles City, Pampanga.

Doktora was also charged for murder before RTC, Branch 27, City of San Fernando, La Union bujt posted bail after the murder case was downgraded to homicide.

Man wanted in Buguias rape nabbed in Manaoag

MANAOAG, Pangasinan – A man charged for rape in Abatan, Buguias, Benguet wa arrested here by cops from Benguet Monday around 5:30 p.m. 

Jayson Palma “Jung” Colombino, 36, self-employed, Manaoag native was arrested  after warrant was issued against him earlier by the late Agapito K. Laoagan, Jr., presiding judge of RTC Br. 64, Abatan, Buguias, with no bail recommended. Warrant of arrest was issued April 6, 2015. 

Jobless man nabbed for rape, illegal detention

BAKUN, Benguet – A jobless man was arrested here Monday at Mayan, Ampusongan for illegal detention and rape. The suspect ws named as  Joel Pinmiliw whose two warrants of arrest were issued by Sergio T. Angnganay, Jr., presiding judge of the RTC Branch 64, Abatan, No bail was recommended for the rape charge while P120, 000 was set for illegal detention.

Live-in partner sues BGHMC utility worker  

BAGUIO CITY – A utility worker of the Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center is now in hot water after his live-in partner complained to police that he mauled her and threw her belongings out of her residence.

A case for violation of Republic Act 9262  (violence against women and children) was filed against  Benjamin Romero Tualla, 38, of Upper Pinget by Maria Luz Pangilinan Flores, 46 of 57 Tacay Road.

Kagawad Emily Canisi of Pinsao Pilot Barangay reported the incident to police.  Investigation disclosed that while the suspect was drinking liquor inside their bedroom, victim asked him regarding her missing jeans but suspect got irked and suddenly slapped her head two times causing her to fall on the floor then uttered unsavory words against her. Not contented, suspect kicked her belongings out from the house prompting the victim together with her 1-year old granddaughter to run towards Pinsao Proper barangay hall to seek assistance.

Cops arrested the suspect and brought both parties to BGHMC for medico legal examination.

Waitress mauled; P6,000 taken from her

BUGUIAS, Benguet – A waitress filed a complaint with the police here Aug. 21  saying she was robbed inside the Kalajo Videoke Bar here at Sinipsip, Amgaleyguey by  a certain Sol Day-os of Balili, Mankayan town.

Victim Elvira Alam-am Antonio, 29, of Bangao here on Aug.  20 at about 2:45 p.m., the suspect together with three companions went to the bar where the victim was working then confronted her regarding a debt.

Suddenly, the suspect grabbed the cellphone of the victim and ordered her to go with them to Barangay Abatan to see their lawyer. The victim resisted and went down to the other room but the suspect and her companions followed and mauled her. After which, the suspect took the travelling bag of the victim containing P6,000, clothing, and other important documents. A case of robbery with violence was readied for filling against the suspect.

Driver jailed for raping minor

BAGUIO CITY – A driver is now in jail here for allegedly raping a minor. A police report said night of Aug. 20 at  No. 82 Palma St. here , the  female minor was allegedly raped by a certainVictorino Sudayon Jr. , 31,  of Cabugao, Ilocos Sur and a resident of the place of incident.

Investigation revealed that the victim was fetched by the suspect at San Fernando, La Union where according to him, he talked with her ex-boyfriend Winston Garcia. When they arrived in Baguio City, they proceeded to the place of incident where he locked the door with the victim inside the room and raped her. Responding cops arrested the suspect.

Natonin farmer nabbed for rape 

NATONIN, Mt. Province – Police nabbed a man here for rape and acts of lasciviousness Aug. 21 at Sitio Parurok, Tuboy, Banawel for rape. Arrested was Raffy Mariano, 34, farmer for many counts of alleged crimes.

Drug-using tailor surrenders 

BAGUIO CITY – A certain Edmund Amando Villanueva, 41, tailor,of  Lamang Village San Carlos Heights, Irisan here  voluntary surrendered to police  Aug. 21 for illegal drugs. Police said Villanueva was a user and not listed in barangay watch list of drug personalities. He was released as witnessed by barangay kagawad Arthur Carlos and will be subject to monitoring.

Abra drug users, pushers surrender

BANGUED, Abra – Alleged drug users and pushers surrendered to police here last week. They were identified as Raymundo Uy Battaler, Aiza Palope Bella, Eric Siababa Orteza,  Lalaine Tuscano Querido, 48 and  Dajer Corporal Bersamin, 32. They were released later with no charges filed against them. In Dolores town also on Aug. 21, Gretchen Asencio Palos, 31, saleslady, of  Pinyahan, Quezon City also surrendered.

2-year-old boy ran over by tricycle 

BANAUE, Ifugao -- A 2-year old boy was run over by a tricycle driven by Ramon Maingig Damuyan, 30, of Barangay Poitan. Police said the incident happened around  7:50 a.m. of August 21 along the national road here o        f Pasnakan. Investigation disclosed parents of the victim parked their tricycle at said place to attend mass.  The victim crossed the road ahead of his parents and accidentally dropped himself on the road pavement. As a result, a speeding tricycle driven by the suspect accidentally ran over him and hit the side carrier causing wounds on his head. Immediately, the parents accompanied by the suspect rushed the victim to the Good News Clinic and Hospital but was later referred to a hospital in Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya for further treatment.

Miner buried alive

as mountain erodes

ITOGON , Benguet – A miner was buried here alive by cascading mud and rocks  here August 21 around 8 p.m. at the height of heavy rain. Police named the victim as Melvin Poclis Timmocheo, 25, married, of Walayan, Bagulin, La Union, and a resident of Camp 6, Virac, Itogon.

Police said the victim was brought and declared dead on arrival at a hospital after he slipped and was covered by flowing muds and rocks coming from eroded mountain in Camp 5, Virac.

Investigation revealed that around 5 p.m. that day, the victim and his two companions identified as Arone Layyet and  Alex Engangleb Pisda were leaving their mining tunnel when he accidentally slipped down a slope where mud and rocks were flowing coming from eroded mountain.

His companion tried to dig the mud but they found him in a river around 60 meters away.  His cadaver was brought by his father to their residence at Camp 6, Virac, Itogon.

PRO-Cordillera: PNP’s Best Police Strategy Management Unit

Camp BadoDangwa, La Trinidad, Benguet – PRO-Cordillera, under the leadership of PCSUPT Elmo Francis Sarona, was awarded as the Best Police Strategy Management Unit by President Rodrigo Duterte in lieu of the celebration of 115th Police Service Anniversary at the PNP National Headquarters , Camp Crame, Quezon City on August 17, 2016 .

PROCOR always demonstrates exemplary performance in the PNP organization;  PCSUPT Robert G. Quenery , Deputy Regional Director for Administration / Chief, Regional Police Strategy Management Unit again received the award at Camp Crame just this Wednesday .Since his assumption as DRDA on September 2014, PRO-COR bagged the Silver Eagle Award PGS initiation Stage in 2013 and the Golden Eagle Award on the PGS Compliance Status last year.

PRO-COR garnered 100% rating last year based on their Functionality Report,another is for being the first PRO to confer the compliance status of the Patrol Plan 2030 down to its lowest units and conducted the PGS Boot Camp which is an effective mechanism to enlist people and transform them as advocates of the PGS.

As per record, it's not the first time PRO-COR was adjudged as the Best Unit in the different categories of awards:  awards received as Best Police Regional Office in 2002 and in 2005; and likewise a finalist for Best Police Regional Office in 2006 and in 2009.

Men abduct farmer due to speak with mayor

MANKAYAN, Benguet – A certain Abelardo Cruz Fernandez, 47, barangay utility worker/farmer, native of Lingayen Pangasinan, and a resident here of Nagawa-an, Balili was abducted by still unidentified men and is still missing.

A police report said the incident happened along Cervantes Road, Tabio, around 6 p.m. as reported by his brother-in-law, Clemente Pablo Malute, resident of Nagawa-an, Balili.

According to Malute, the victim called his cell phone him stating three unidentified male persons suddenly grabbed him, covered his head with a bonnet and pulled him inside a black van then drove towards Cervantes,

Malute said he and the victim were scheduled to visit the mayor at his office when the incident happened. Personnel of Mankayan police investigated the area but the victim couldn’t be found.

Men nabbed in Baguio buy-bust operations 

BAGUIO CITY -- Cops arrested men here last week in different buy-bust operations.  At Burnham Park, arrested were Jabir Pascan y Amina, 26, of Masio, Lanao Del Sur and Jamael Ampuan y Mala, 19, of Marawi City, Mindanao. Seized from them were shabu and P500, buy-bust money.

 In another buy-bust operation, Khalid Hebionada Dibaratun, 30, of Marawi City, and resident here of Upper Rock Quarry was arrested. Seized from him were shabu  and P500.

Also arrested in another incident was Juanito Aquino De Guzman, 26, construction worker, of Santa Cruz, Ilocos Sur for shabu. Carlos Aquino Zarate, 31, of Manaoag, Pangasinan, and a resident of Middle Quirino Hill, here was also nabbed for shabu.

Also arrested was Saiben Makapangpang, 32, of Middle San Carlos, Baguio.

Five Baguio families evacuated due to landslide

BAGUIO CITY – Five families were evacuated here Monday around 7:3o p.m. at the height of heavy rains due to landslide. Station 2 cops led by Insp. Andres Alcantara responded at Purok 3 Guisad Surong, where the residence of Vicente Labrador Baroma, 69, made of galvanized sheets was damaged due to mudslide coming from the house of his brother Emanuel Baroma.

Punong barangay Orlando Soriano reported no casualty. The families near the affected area were evacuated to the residence of Kagawad Mario Benalio while the others went to their immediate families in the same barangay. The five evacuated families were those of  Vicente Caluza Baroma, Emanuel Tomas Baroma, Ramona Baroma Golidan, Marypaz Baroma Asumio and Regie Tandas.

Abatan waitress nabbed for ‘stealing’ collection money

BUGUIAS, Benguet – A waitress was arrested after allegedly stealing money from her employer here in Barangay Abatan Monday.  

The victim was identified as Andrea Palingping Pagaway, 47 while the suspect was named as Eloisa Protacio Valdez, 24, of Cojuangco, Santa Rosa, Nueva Ecija.  Investigation disclosed that the suspect was a waitress of the victim’s bar. The victim claimed the suspect took her collection of P5,0000 then left heading toward Baguio City. The victim reported the incident to Buguias police who coordinated with Atok town cops.             The latter intercepted a passenger van with the suspect on board in Sayangan, Atok at about 5:45 p.m. The P5,000 cash was recovered from the suspect and she was brought to Buguias police station where a case for theft was lodged against her.

Australian media member loses valuables inside gym

BAGUIO CITY – An Australian national went to the Endless Fitness Gym at Porta Vaga Mall, Session Road here Monday around 7:30 p.m. for a workout and lost her valuables. Police identified the victim as Alexandra Joy Bingham, 26, from Southport, Australia,  member of the media and Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency.

         Accordingly, at about 6:30 p.m., the victim went inside the said gym with her black shoulder bag containing leather wallet assorted ATM cards, driver’s license issued at Australia, PNVSCA ID card, P1,000 cash, and ID pictures.

She put her balck bag inside a white hand bag and put these in an open locker inside the female changing room. After the workout, the victim discovered that her wallet was missing and tried to locate it but to no avail.  No CCTV camera was installed in the area.

Farmer hacks farmer in Banaue

BANAUE, Ifugao -- A hacking incident transpired here at Sitio Kayang, Kinakin, Monday around 5 p.m. wherein the victim identified as Martin Nalbog, 48, farmer, was hacked by the suspect named as Suliban Nattem, 48, farmer, both residents of said place. Investigation conducted by polie showed the victim came from a burial at Gohang, Kinakin, Banaue, and while on his way home, the suspect waited for him and hacked the head and left chest of the victim using a bladed object. The victim was brought by his neighbors to their house for interment while the suspect surrendered to Banaue police.

Lamut laborer surrenders gun

LAMUT, Ifugao – A certain Diego Tan-um Changaw, 46, laborer, of Hilltop, Poblacion West here surrendered an unregistered Cal. 38 revolver with three bullets here Monday at the municipal police station. The gun was unlicensed. No charges were filed against the suspect.

Buguias farmer nabbed for drugs

BUGUIAS, Benguet – Cops conducted a raid near the Anglican Church in Bangao, here Monday around 5 p.m. that resulted in the arrest of Arnold “Toljak” Sally Potpotan, 43, married, farmer,  resident of Bayoyo, Buyacaoan.

The operatives confiscated shabu from the suspect including drug paraphernaliaincluding a duplicate BDO bank deposit slip with account name of Jennifer A Latawan.

The arrested person and the confiscated items were brought to Buguias policed station where a case for illegal drugs were prepared against the suspect.

Farmer nabbed for syndicated estafa

LAGAWE, Ifugao --  Police arrested  here Monday a certain Alex Cholin Pil-o, 32, farmer, resident of IB 110- Betag, La Trinidad, Benguet for syndicated estafa. This, after Romeo U. Habbiling, presiding judge, of RTC Branch 14, Lagawe, issued arrest warrant against him for 11 estafa cases with no bail recommended.

Farmer stabs half-brother

RIZAL, Kalinga – A farmer stabbed his half-brother in a drinking spree here August 13 around 5:30 p.m.

Police said they received a call from barangay kagawad Alejandro of Kinama of a stabbing incident at the residence of a certain Marcelino Alejadro in the barangay. Investigation reveal a certain Rolando Jaramillo, 38 stabbed his half-brother Alberto Fernandez, 57, also a farmer.

 The victim and suspect with Marcelino were having a drinking session inside the house of the latter when the victim and the suspect had a heated argument but they were pacified by Alejandro. When  Alejandro went out to urinate, he heard a scream inside his house. He saw the victim with stab wounds and the suspect holding a knife prompting him to call for help and they arrested the suspect. The victim was n brought to Juan M Duyan Hospital in the town  and later referred to CVMC, Tuguegarao City, Cagayan for medical treatment.

Two stabbed near Baguio public market

BAGUIO CITY – Two men were stabbed by still unidentified suspects here August 13 at around 10:30 p.m. along the public market in Hilltop Road. Victims were named as Vergel Ramos Cera Jr., 23 and Arnold Dawaten Manengyao Sr., 56 of Pico, La Trinidad, Benguet.  Investigation disclosed that the victims just met and made friends at Upper Magsaysay Avenue and decided to proceed to Hilltop. 

         When they were at the junction of Hilltop and Zandueta Street, they met the five male suspects and without any provocation, one of the suspects boxed the face of Cera and the group mauled the two. The victims tried to escape and ran towards 3^rd Kayang Street to seek help at Benguet Bar. From there, Manengyao Sr. noticed he had stabbed wounds at his neck and back. He also sustained head injuries caused by a blunt object.  The victims were then brought to Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center for treatment where Manengyao was admitted while Cera was sent home after treatment.

Man shot at Bulanao public market

TABUK CITY, Kalinga – Police heard a gunshot here August 13 around 9:45 p.m. emanating from the nearby Bulanao Public Market. Responding cops found a man sprawled on the unpaved road with bubbles coming out from his mouth and nostrils later identified as Reynaldo Balicao Oligario, 27, ex-OFW, of Taloctoc, Tanudan, Kalinga and a resident of Purok-6, Bulanao.

Investigation showed that the victim and companions were having a drinking session at Binibini Videoke Bar at the market when the victim went out to urinate. A gunshot was heard outside and Oligario was seen lying on the road. A motorcycle believed used by the suspects was brought to Tabuk police station.

The alleged rider of the HONDA XRM, believed to be the companion of the suspect was taken into custody by cops. Said rider refused to divulge the identity of the suspect. Recovered spent shell for Cal. 45 from the scene was taken for forensic examination.

New Clark airport head named

By Ding Cervantes

CLARK FREEPORT, Pampanga – The Clark International Airport Corp. (CIAC) has a new head.

         Former CIAC executive vice president Alexander Cauguiran has been named acting president and chief executive officer, according to his predecessor  Emigdio Tanjuatco, who resigned last week.

Tanjuatco, second cousin of former president Benigno Aquino III, said he submitted his resignation letter to Transportation Secretary  Arthur Tugade last week.

“It was a sudden decision. I wanted Secretary Tugade to be given a free hand in choosing somebody to head CIAC within the parameters of Malacañang. I don’t want to be a bother to anyone,” said Tanjuatco who did not report to work since Monday.

Tanjuatco expressed his gratitude to various sectors that helped him during his term.

“I did the best I could and I came to like what I was doing. I will never forget my stint here,” he said.

DOLE-CAR starts profiling of firms practicing “endo”

By Maria Aprila Cruz

BAGUIO CITY -- The Department of Labor and Employment in the Cordillera started profiling establishments practicing contractualization or  end of contract “endo” employment.

DOLE technical support services division  chief  Emerito Narag said as of August,  the started monitoring to identify establishments, practicing “endo” employment.

Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III earlier ordered the DOLE regional offices to come up with the list of establishments which are into contractualization.

This is in line with efforts to realize the pronouncements of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to abolish the unlawful contractualization scheme, which he described as unfair labor practice and tool for exploitation against Filipino workers.

Narag explained that contractualization is a work arrangement whereby workers are only hired for only about five months without security of tenure, monetary, non-monetary, and social protection benefits.  Establishments which practice unlawful contractualization deprive workers of overtime, holiday pay, and other benefits.

The marching order for DOLE is to reduce the endo system by 50 percent at the end of 2016 and to put a stop to the system by end of 2017. -- JDP/MAWC – PIA  

JHMC, KBP plant trees in John Hay

  

BAGUIO CITY -- The John Hay Management Corp. officials and workers planted coffee and Benguet pine trees in various locations within  Camp John Hay recently.

At least 100 Benguet Pine trees alternate with 75 Arabica coffee seedlings were planted at Barangay Country Club Village  while 600 Arabica coffee seedlings were planted at the Historical Core, Camp John Hay by the JHMC employees led by President and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Jamie Eloise M. Agbayani and their partners from the McKleen and Maximum Security.

“As the steward of about 53% of the forested land in Baguio City, JHMC continues to implement environmental programs which aim to maintain forest density, clean air and water resources,” aJHMC statement read.

            “Being true to its mandate to be the leader of environment and forest stewardship in the country, 38 JHMC personnel and security providers are deputized as DENR Officers which are tasked to enforce environment and forestry laws, rules and regulations within the CJHRA,” it  added.

JHMC regularly conducts tree planting activities in support to National Greening Program of the government. The JHMC plans to enroll the Historical Core and the Country Club Village as NGP sites with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

Meanwhile, the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas – Baguio-Benguet Chapter planted 250 pine seedlings at their adopted area in the La Trinidad part of the Busol watershed and conducted weeding and cleaning up of the area as well.

Aside from the DENR, other partners who supported the project include 911-on Call Medical and Rescue Group and employees of the Jollibee and Greenwich. -- Redjie Melvic Cawis

Gov’t making BAPTC top veggie trade center

By Danica Tomin

LA TRINIDAD, Benguet – The government is now moving to make the Benguet Agri-Pinoy Trading Center here an effective medium to boost Benguet’s vegetable industry which supplies around 75 percent of Metro Manila and lowlands’ veggie needs.

The trading center through its contract trading department (CTD) recently installed internal control system (ICS) for farmer groups in Buguias and Kibungan towns even as the provincial government is exerting effort to boost farmer’s incomes through its programs.

As requirement for GAP certification, the training developed a manual for the Lengaoan Indigenous Farmers Credit Cooperative (LIFCC) and Madaymen Good Agricultural Practices Association (MGAPA).

The manual contained data to advance in GAP certification process.

Aside from the installation of ICS, the LIFCC and MGAPA are also expected to construct simple facilities such as composting area, nursery, toilet and packaging center.

CTD managing director Frederick Edeco said both organizations agreed to construct centralized nurseries and packaging centers in their respective areas where BAPTC will help in monitoring their GAP practices and other developments.

The LIFCC and MGAPA are two of accredited organizations to pass institutional market requirements in BAPTC’s quest to link farmers to institutional markets.

Both organizations are tapped to supply carrots, white potato, cabbage, onion leeks, radish and all kinds of lettuces to two well- known restaurants in the Philippines.

“BAPTC will aid in monitoring LIFCC and MGAPA’s compliance to the PhilGAP standards with 6 major commodities expected from them.” Edeco said.

On the other hand, the PhilGAP certifying body headed by the Bureau of Agriculture and Fisheries Standards (BAFS) continues to formulate and enforce standards of quality in the processing, preservation, packaging, labeling, importation, exportation, distribution and advertising of agricultural and fisheries products. The agency also conduct research on product standardization, and alignment of the local standards with the international standards. 

More druggies killed in North, Central Luzon

MORE DRUG SUSPECTS were killed in Central and North Luzon last week.

The body of a man believed to be a victim of summary execution was dumped in Barangay Manano in Mallig town in Isabela.

Chief Insp. Charlemagne Tabije, Mallig police chief, said the body, which was hogtied and wrapped in packing tape, bore gunshot wounds.

Police said a purse that contained five plastic sachets of shabu was found in the pocket of the unidentified man.

Bulacan shootout

In Bulacan, Jimmy Boy Gruta, alias Toto, was killed in an alleged shootout with police in Sitio Dulong Bayan in Barangay Poblacion, Sta. Maria, Bulacan.

Senior Supt. Romeo Caramat, Bulacan police acting director, said Gruta resisted arrest after handing over a sachet of shabu to PO2 Erickson Lacasaman, who posed as buyer.

Caramat said a .38-caliber revolver and ammunition as well as several sachets of shabu with an estimated value of P9,000 and P500 in cash were recovered from Gruta, a known drug pusher  in Sta. Maria.

P2.7-B marijuana haul in Kalinga

Meanwhile, about 35 hectares of marijuana plantation in Kalinga were cleared in a series of police operations in the past two weeks.

Chief Supt. Elmo Francis Sarona, Cordillera police director, said about 12 million fully grown marijuana plants with an estimated value of P2.7 billion were uprooted.

Sarona said they are targeting 80 hectares of marijuana plantations on Mt. Chumanchil.

In La Union, four persons were arrested for carrying P5.1 million worth of marijuana leaves.

Virgilio Galawa, 23; Ryan Palinas, 22; Edison Tagaban, 17, and Jerry Tacay, 33, were collared at a checkpoint in Sitio Cabaroan in Barangay Poblacion in Santol town Monday.

Rogelio Vargas was in an eatery in Barangay Pinmaludpod, Urdaneta City when he was killed by a lone gunman who posed as a customer on Saturday.

P8-M marijuana  raided in Ifugao

TINOC, Ifugao – Authorities discovered P8 million worth of marijuana plantation here in Sitio Lukutan, Ahin, Tinoc, Ifugao on Monday.

Planted with a total of 40,000 fully grown marijuana plants, the marijuana were at a 10,000-square meter plantation. 

Upon discovery, policemen put the illegal plant on fire while some were brought to the Ifugao provincial office in Lagawe for evidence.

No one was caught taking care of the marijuana in the area, police said.

The marijuana haul in Ifugao on Monday was the first ever since the Duterte administration took over and launched its drive versus drugs.

Authorities have discovered marijuana plantations in Tinoc often, though concentration has been focused in Benguet, Kalinga and the tri-boundaries of Benguet-La Union and Ilocos Sur.

Espino wants name cleared

In Dagupan City, Pangasinan, former governor now congressman Amado Espino Jr  said, “I want to see the President at mabigyan naman ako ng chance at makapag paliwanag,” after a pronouncement by President Duterte.

Espino said he was completely surprised with the pronouncement where he was included in New Bilibid Drug Matrix.

He said was against illegal drugs and worked hard to secure the passage of Republic Act 9165,otherwise known as comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

Espino was the principal author of RA 9165.

3 men dead

Three men were found dead in Bulacan, said Senior Supt. Romeo Caramat, provincial police acting director.

Two of the fatalities were identified as Rely Reyes, 25, a resident of Barangay Dulong Mabon in Pulilan town and  Emetrio Guzman of Pandi.

Caramat said the bodies of the victims were wrapped in packing tape and bore gunshot wounds and notes identifying them as drug pushers.

In Quirino, a former member of the defunct Philippine Constabulary was gunned down in a reported shootout with anti-drug operatives in Barangay Andres Bonifacio in Diffun town before dawn Friday.

Ricardo Buizon was the most wanted drug personality in the town, and refused to respond to calls to surrender under Oplan Tokhang, said
Chief Inspector Maciste Serrano, Diffun police chief.

Serrano said two sachets of shabu and a .38-caliber revolver were recovered from the suspects.

Cagayan ambush

In Cagayan, Edward Bareng, 40, a resident of Barangay Ballang in Buguey town survived an ambush by unidentified men in Barangay San Vicente.

Chief Inspector Christopher Danao, Buguey police chief, said Bareng identified his attackers as Jofel Alipio, Alex Alipio and Aries Ligsay.

Danao said Bareng was on the their drug watchlist.

Meanwhile, seven employees of the Tarlac provincial office tested positive for drug use.

“They have to undergo a second confirmatory test just to make sure,” said Tarlac Gov. Susan Yap.

At least 7,000 drug personalities have surrendered in Tarlac since July 1.

Yap said they held an anti-drug summit recently to activate barangay anti-drug abuse councils in partnership with the Department of Health.

In Masbate, Julios Ducot, the fourth most wanted drug personality in Claveria town, was arrested in a sting on Friday.

More drug suspects slain

A most wanted drug suspect in La Union, was gunned down by unidentified men Wednesday morning.

Hermie Licudan was driving his motorcycle with his wife on their way to the Bacnotan municipal hall when two men on another motorcycle opened fire, said Chief Inspector Reynaldo Soria, town police chief.

Licudan was pronounced dead on arrival at the Bacnotan District Hospital.

In Bulacan, three men were killed and four others were arrested in anti-drug operations in Barangay San Juan in Balagtas town and Barangay FVR in Norzagaray.

Senior Superintendent Romeo Caramat, Bulacan police acting director, said the fatalities were known only by their aliases of Ikong, Danny and Good Job.

Three died in a reported shootout with police in separate stings in Bulacan on Tuesday.

Senior Superintendent Romeo Caramat, Bulacan police acting director, identified the fatalities as Rodesto Jenotan, 52;  Rodrigo Maringal, 40, and Danilo Bardaje.

Caramat said the suspects drew their guns when they sensed that they were dealing with anti-drug operatives.

Jenotan’s partner Marites Nicolas was arrested. A hand grenade, 17 sachets of shabu, a weighing scale and drug paraphernalia were reportedly recovered from the suspects.

In Tarlac, Jonathan Salvador, alias Jojo, 38, a resident of Barangay Poblacion Norte in Paniqui town shot it out with lawmen during a sting, said Senior Superintendent Westrimundo Obinque, town police acting director.

Salvador’s partner Carmille Franilla, 23; his brother Jovan; Ailyn Peyte, 22, and Rolly Sagun were arrested.

Obique said Salvador was ranked 10th on the barangay drug watchlist.

Also on Tuesday, Marvin Cabradilla was shot dead by unidentified men while playing billiards in Barangay Lingsat in San Fernando City, La Union at around 4:05 p.m.

Cabradilla, who was ranked ninth on the drug watchlist of the La Union police, was arrested for drug possession in 2014, but freed after posting bail.

3 found dead

In Isabela, three men were found dead along the highway in Barangay Paddad in Alicia town.

The fatalities were identified as tricycle driver Robert Cariño; Jonathan Salvador, 20, and Dario Bisteros, 23.

Chief Insp. Santos Tecbobolan, Alicia police chief, said Cariño surrendered under Oplan Tokhang last week while Salvador and Bisteros were not on their drug watchlist.

Three drug pushers were neutralized while five others were arrested in separate buy-bust operations conducted by the Bulacan Police on Tuesday.

Senior Supt. Romeo Caramat, acting Bulacan police provincial director, identified the three slain suspects as Rodesto Jenotan alias Hudas, 52, of Cabanatuan City and resident of Bocaue, Bulacan; Rodrigo Maringal, alias  Boy Cruz, 40, of Norzagaray, Bulacan and Danilo Bardaje alias Jomar Fulgo.

The arrested suspects, on the other hand, were identified as Leodegario Bernardino alias Joel Donaire, 28 ; Jose Rendora alias Macmac Eugenio, 50; Bernard Estrella alias Annabelle, 34;  Rafael Serna, 21, and Marites Nicolas, 44.

Supt. Charlie Cabradilla of the Boacue, Bulacan police,  said Jenotan was killed during a buy-bust operation in Barangay Bambang.

Jenotan, Cabradilla said, apparently recognized the undercover police officer  and hurriedly ran to his bed and took a hand grenade.

“But before the suspect was able to remove the grenade pin, the operatives shot him to defend themselves,” he added.

Recovered from the scene were the  live hand grenade, 17 sachets of shabu (with estimated weight of 2 grams worth P2,500), ammunition, drug-using paraphernalia’s and a marked P500 bill.

In Norzagaray, Supt. Rizalino Andaya reported that Maringal and Bardaje were killed while four other suspects were arrested after a shootout during another buy-bust operation conducted by the elements of Norzagaray police in the suspect’s drug den at Phase 1 Brgy. FVR.

Kalinga haul

At least P866.5 million worth of fully-grown marijuana plants were uprooted and burned during another anti-illegal drugs operations at Mt. Chumanchil, Loccong village in Tinglayan, Kalinga, anti-drug agents said Tuesday.

Juvenal Azurin, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency-Cordillera chief, said the marijuana plants were destroyed in the presence of teams from the PDEA-Cordillera and PDEA-Cagayan Valley, Kalinga provincial police and Tinglayan town police, Army’s 3rd Regional Public Safety Battalion, Mountain Province and Ifugao Provincial Safety Company members.

The latest marijuana eradication drive was done from Aug. 15 to Aug. 19. – With reports from Ric Sapnu, Freddie Lazaro, Jun Elias, Raymund Catindig and Eva Visperas