Apayao cops turn ‘superheros’; give Christmas cheer

LUNA, Apayao - Apayao Police Provincial Office officers put on their superhero costumes as they move around the province spreading Christmas cheer to the communities with performances and gifts.
    As part of the Apayao PPO's 'Paskuhan sa Kampo' celebration, the police created the outreach program aimed to share blessings with the local community and make the holiday season extra joyful for the children.

    Wearing their capes and masks, the “superhero cops” distributed a variety of food packs and toys to children and to some residents this Tuesday, December 19, 2023.
    Some of the beneficiaries were kids admitted at the Far North Luzon General Hospital (FNLGHT), learners at the Quirino Day Care Center in Luna, and some residents of Barangay Capanikian in Pudtol.
    During the opening program conducted at the Camp Elias Bulut Sr. in Barangay Santa Lina, Luna, Governor Elias Bulut Jr. and Congressman Eleanor Bulut-Begtang expressed their steadfast commitment to supporting the PNP's programs.
    The two leaders also highlighted their dedication to combating terrorism and addressing incidents of rape within the province, the Apayao Provincial Public Information Office reported.

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NPA member surrenders; explosives cache found

PUDTOL, Apayao – A New People’s Army guerilla voluntarily surrendered while an explosive cache belonging to the NPA was discovered here at Sitio Agura, Barangay Malibang Dec. 13, the regional police information office said.
    Reports submitted to Cordillera police director Brig. Gen. David K. Peredo Jr said the 57-year-old NPA surrenderee was from Purok 4, Malibang here and member of the West Front Committee, KOMPROB Cagayan, KR-CV.
    After a series of negotiations, the former surrendered to the 1st Apayao Provincial Mobile Force Company, Provincial Intelligence Unit-Apayao Provincial Police Office, Regional Intelligence Division Cordillera, Regional Mobile Force Battalion15, Regional Intelligence Unit 14, Pudtol Municipal Police Station and Provincial EOD and Canine Unit Apayao.
    During interrogation the surrenderee disclosed location of explosives cache.
    Acting the said information, elements of Apayao PPO, RID-PRO Cordillera, RMFB15, RIU-14, and PECU-Apayao proceeded to the place and found fuse time commercial-226 ft; two grenade rifle, M76 high explosive; grenade rifle, M76, HE without pin; 60mm cartridge, HE; three handheld radio and two radio chargers.

    The surrenderee now under custody of the 1st Apayao PMFC for debriefing.
    The explosive materials are now under the custody of Apayao PECU while handheld radios and chargers are now under custody of the 1st Apayao PMFC for disposition.
 

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2 motorbike riders hurt in Luna, Apayao crash

 
LUNA, Apayao - Two men from Pudtol town were rushed to Far North Luzon General Hospital and Training Center (FNLGHTC) here in Barangay Quirino due to vehicular accident Oct. 20.
    A witness said the incident happened around 3:47 p.m. in front of Rural Bank of Angeles - Luna Branch.
    The Honda XRM 125 ridden by two male individuals, the witness said, was overs peeding and attempted to overtake a white Mitsubishi Delica Van, but lost control when the motorcycle hit its bumper, causing them to collide with a maroon pickup truck traversing the opposite lane.
    The driver of the pickup, Joseph Abugan, 29, from Santa Marcela said he and his pregnant wife were driving home when the incident happened.
    “Naggapu kami didiay DepEd ta adda ilak-lakad mi kenni misis ko, kalpasan na napan kami Philhealth, agawid kamin, naka-in innayad kami ta masikog ni baket ko, eight months. Mapan kami kuma payla ag-grocery, ngem bigla nga adda naipasiruk nga motor iti lugan, imbag ta Haan nadangran ni baket ko,” he said.
    He added he tried to avoid the motorcycle, but the incident happened so fast.
    His wife, he added, was shocked with the incident.
    Meantime, the two male occupants of the XRM 125 sustained injuries and were brought by police and fire officers to the FNLGHTC.
One of them was reportedly the barangay chairman in Pudtol.

Laborer, 44 drowns during picnic in Piat

By Christian Malnawa

PIAT, Cagayan – A 44-year-old man recently drowned at  Chico River while swimming while under the influence of alcohol.
Victim ‘alias’ Tomi, 44, was dead when he was pulled out of the water a few hours after he drowned.
    He was from Upper Bicutan, Taguig City, and worked here as construction worker.
    The victim along with his workmates was reportedly at the river in Barangay Dugayung, Piat for a picnic when the incident transpired.
    They decided to go for a swim, but moments later, the victim ended up in a deep part of the river without being noticed by his companions.    
    He was later searched by his companions but was found lifeless a few hours later.
    The victim’s remains was brought to Taguig City by the Task Force Lingkod Cagayan (TFLC)-Tuao Station, the Cagayan Provincial Information Office reported.
 

2 injured in Tanudan road mishap on BSKE

TANUDAN, Kalinga – Two riders were injured in vehicular traffic accident here during the just concluded barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections.
    The road crash happened around 12:40 p.m. on Oct. 30 along the Tanudan-Banawe Road at Sitio Pagugo, Dupligan.
Capt. Florand Sim, Tanudan acting chief of police, told media a utility vehicle wagon came from Tabuk City and headed to Upper Tanudan when it attempted to overtake a motorcycle at the sharp curve portion of the road.
    This resulted in the vehicle, driven by Christalyn Masa-ao, 35, who was said to be on her way to cast her vote, crashing against a Honda 125 motorcycle traversing the opposite lane.
    “While on the way, ditoy Pagugo idiay sharp curve portion, in-overtake an na daytoy adda sangu na and eksakto metten nga paumay diay motor (Honda 125). So nagbinnangga daytoy motor and lugan,” he said.
    The rider of the Honda 125 identified by the police as Marlon Pengad, 35, and his back rider, Sheryl Pengad sustained injuries and were brought to Kalinga Provincial Hospital.
    The former, as mentioned by Sim, was admitted but in stable condition while the latter was released from the hospital.

    The acting chief of police, meanwhile said  no election-related violence was observed in Tanudan during the casting of votes for the BSK elections.  

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Top 4 under-the-radar scenic spots in Cordillera

By Ruth Cupang

THE highlands of the Cordillera have become a magnet for travelers seeking a serene, nature-bound escapade. Drawn by the cool weather and breathtaking attractions, many tourists head to popular destinations like Baguio, Sagada and Banaue.

    Yet, amid these well-trodden destinations, there exists a desire among free-spirited wanderers to avoid the bustling tourist crowds and discover tranquil, under-the-radar spots for a unique vacation experience.
    Instead of following the well-traveled trails of this region, why not embark on a journey less taken and discover the less-explored wonders of Abra, Apayao and Kalinga, and perhaps enjoy bragging rights for being the first in your circle to visit remote and least explored nature’s paradise.
    These days, uncovering these truly less-explored spots can be a challenge, but fear not. The Manila Times has curated a list of the top four lesser-known tourist destinations in the Cordillera region that will sweep you off your feet.
    So, get ready to become an explorer rather than just a tourist with these four Cordillera scenic spots.
    1. Kaparkan Falls, Abra
Getting a glimpse at Kaparkan Falls in Tineg, Abra, is like walking into an enchanted scene from a high-budget fantasy movie.     As you gaze at its multilayered whitish basins stacked one atop the other, it’s as if the forest nymphs have swung open nature’s door to an earthly paradise, inviting you to take a plunge into its crystal-clear waters.
    This fascinating waterfall terrace, also known as Mulawin Falls, stands as one of the most captivating and uniquely structured waterfalls not only in the region but in the entire country.
Kaparkan Falls
Although locals have cherished it for a long time, Kaparkan Falls came into the public eye only in 2015 when a curious tourist shared its existence. The falls measure approximately 1,000 meters in height, with its waters flowing into the Tineg River below.
    While taking a dip in its refreshing waters, you’ll also be surrounded by a rainforest ambiance, with centuries-old trees draping their roots and lush ferns.
    The journey to reach Kaparkan Falls is an adventure in itself. It starts with a several-hour trip by bus or car from Manila. Once you arrive in the area, you need to hop onto a “giant truck” or “monster truck” for the ride to the falls. The ride itself provides a thrilling, roller-coaster-like experience by land. It is not wise to take your car in this perilous drive.
    After reaching the drop-off point, a 20- to 30-minute hike (depending on your pace) will lead you to the falls. To plan your trip, you can contact their local tourism office or connect with travel and tour companies.
2. Lussok Cave and Underground River, Apayao
If you think Puerto Princesa City in Palawan is the only place to offer you a subterranean experience, wait until you explore Lussok Crystal Cave and its underground river in Luna, Apayao. This majestic Apayao frontier offers an otherworldly experience as you paddle through its underground river.
    The best way to explore it is through a guided boat tour, where you’ll learn about the cave’s history and witness its unique formations.
Lussok Crystal Cave
    Upon entry, you’ll pass through a dome-like entrance and be greeted by the rare sight of its multichamber cave adorned with centuries-old stalactites and stalagmites, glistening with crystals that create dancing reflection when touched by the faintest light.
    This cave and underground river offer a 200-meter voyage accessible by small boats, with the option to hike, allowing you to explore its diverse chambers.
    Another part of the experience is the sight of the cave’s ecosystem, which holds a variety of aquatic creatures, including fish, crabs and bats. The clicking of the bats’ wings as they fly overhead and their roosting on the cavernous walls add to the perfect cave experience.
    So, whether you are an avid spelunker or simply want to explore the depths and richness of a below-the-surface cavern, Lussok Cave is the best less-explored natural wonder to wander through.
    Some folk say it is not for the faint-hearted, as it sometimes involves climbing, crawling, and even wading through the chilly waters. However, the thrill of this adventure will conquer any fears, and the entrancing experience will be worth every effort you put into it.
    To get to Lussok Cave, take a bus or a flight from Manila to Cagayan or Ilocos. Once you’re there, catch a public jeepney to Apayao. You can plan your trip by contacting the local government or seek assistance from travel and tour services.
3. Awichon Heritage Village, Kalinga
Visiting Awichon Heritage Village is like stepping back and landing in an ancient cultural village in the Northern Cordillera. This picturesque village in Lubuagan, Kalinga, was founded by Alonso Saclag Sr., a National Living Treasure of the Performing Arts.
    The scenic village has been meticulously crafted to transport you back in time, resembling the traditional houses, cultural treasures and tools of Kalinga villages, offering visitors an immersive dive into the rich heritage of this province.
Awichon Heritage Village
    The village comprises several wooden houses, slightly elevated from the ground, with intricately designed interiors that include a fireplace, antique gongs, weapons, shields and carabao horns adorning the house’s outer walls.
    The village, perched atop a mountain cliff, offers awe-inspiring views of the Cordillera mountains, making it a captivating tourist destination. The mornings, in particular, are magical, as visitors wake up to the sea of clouds blanketing the mountains while the sun rises, and they sip on a cup of robusta coffee. This experience is perfect for those seeking a pristine, cultural and scenic experience far from the bustle of the city.
    To reach this village, you can travel by bus or car from Manila to Tabuk City or catch a flight to Tuguegarao and then head to Tabuk City, approximately an hour away. From Tabuk, a car or passenger jeep can take you to Lubuagan in two to three hours. You can contact their tourism office or explore tour packages bound for Awichon Village for a hassle-free journey.
4. Mount Binaratan, the ‘Silent Mountain’ of Kalinga
Have you ever wondered how often certain superstitions seem to have an uncanny alignment with the natural world?
    The curious case of Mount Binaratan, known as the “Silent Mountain,” located at the edge of Tanudan, Kalinga, is a perfect example of this intriguing phenomenon.
Located in the deep forests of Tanudan, this interesting mountain harbors a legend that transcends folklore into a puzzling reality.
Mount Binaratan
Oral history has it that the peak of Mount Binaratan is “silent,” with no traces of birds chirping. It is believed that the silent peak of the mountain is spellbound by the divine command of Kabunian, the ancient god of the Tanudan people.
    The legend goes that Kabunian once descended into these very mountains on a quest to hunt wild boars and deer. However, his mission was halted by the incessant chirping of the birds, which made it impossible for him to locate his prey. In frustration, he cast his divine authority, commanding the birds to stop chirping. And so it was, and still is, that no bird makes a sound in that specific area in the mountain.
    Locals and travelers who have hiked the peak confirm this “silent mountain phenomenon.”
    They see flying birds overhead but hear no chirps, which makes it strange and intriguing because they can hear the birds chirping when they descend to the other parts of the mountain.
    While there may be a scientific explanation for this phenomenon, further study is needed to fully understand the mystery.
    Nonetheless, there’s something truly exciting about being part of such a spellbinding occurrence. So, those highly spirited adventurers out there explore the depths of Mount Binaratan. Who knows if the same magical spell will also dissipate your life worries, much like the sounds that Kabunian once silenced.
    So, if you are ready for your next trip, you can reach Mount Binaratan by traveling from Manila to Tabuk City by road or from Manila to Tuguegarao by plane. Then, take a one- to two-hour ride to Tabuk. Afterward, arrange transportation to Tanudan and start your hike to Mt. Binaratan. It’s essential to contact the local government in advance for tour guide assistance and to verify the safety of hiking during your chosen date.
    The Cordilleras indeed cradle hidden natural treasures yet to be fully explored. These underrated spots offer glimpses into the region’s pristine beauty, rich culture and mystical folklore. So, if you’re up for an adventure and eager to experience the unique serenity of nature, pack your bags and set out to explore the wonders of Abra, Apayao and Kalinga.
 
 

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RDC, NEDA push autonomy campaign in Abra, Apayao

By Kathleen Irah B. Magaliao

BAGUIO CITY – Proponents for Cordillera autonomy are pushing the advocacy and held information campaign in Abra and Apayao in line with campaign of the Cordillera Regional Development Council.
    The Social Preparation of CAR into an Autonomous Region (SPCAR) program staff along with members of the RDC speakers Bureau went to 10 municipalities in Abra and Apayao which have not yet been reached by the program’s information, education, and communication (IEC) campaigns the past years.  
    Town reached this year in Abra were Langiden and San Quintin on June 27-29, Lagayan, San Isidro, and Pilar on Sept. 21-23, and Tubo, Licuan-Baay, and Tineg on Oct. 3-5.
    Meanwhile, campaigns were held in the municipalities of Calanasan and Flora in Apayao last July 12-13.
    In these IECs, local government employees, barangay officials, private sector representatives, and government employees were invited to listen to lectures and engage in an open forum where questions and concerns about regional autonomy and details about House Bill 3267: An Act Establishing the Cordillera Autonomous Region are raised and discussed.
    Manifestos of support were also collected after programs. 
    Miss and Mister Cordillera Autonomy Youth Ambassador 2022 Angela May Respicio and Shawn Michael Barilla, Dr. Gregorio Taag, and Leonard Andanan served as speakers in the IECs mentioned above. 

    The SPCAR program aims to conduct at least one IEC campaign for each municipality in the region. 
    In the coming months, IECs will be coordinated with local government units of remaining unreached municipalities.
    IEC campaigns in online platforms are also done on major social media sites through the account named “One Cordillera” in Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and Tiktok. 
    The National Economic Development Authority – Cordillera Administrative Region (NEDA-CAR), as the secretariat of RDC-CAR headed by regional director Susan A. Sumbeling, is managing the SPCAR program.
    It leads formation and implementation of programs advocating and forwarding the regional autonomy agenda of Cordillera in platforms such as inclusion of the advocacy in development plans.
 

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Apayao pushes digital literacy with trainings

By Aldwin Quitasol

LUNA, Apayao -- The Provincial Apayao Training Center recently held here a training program to fulfill higher digital literacy targeting employees from various offices and departments of provincial and municipal governments of Apayao.
    The two-day training first of the series of capacity building was started with a two-day photo and video editing training-workshop at the League of Municipalities of the Philippines Multipurpose Hall was held.
    At least 24 participants from various offices in the provincial and municipal government of Flora and Calanasan towns attended the training — the first of the various trainings under ATC’s latest learning and development initiative in addition to its other regular technical-vocational course offerings.
    The workshop-training series will be undertaken in collaboration with the provincial government’s Human Resource Management and Development Division of the provincial government of Apayao.
    They are part of the bid to enhance capacities of its target participants with 21st century skills and competencies in order to contribute to a more efficient and innovative civil service workforce that can effectively meet the challenges of modern times.
    ATC administrator Jerome Lacambra said acquiring and honing digital skills of civil servants is not just an advantage but also a necessity.
    “I hope that you will embrace this opportunity to learn and grow as workers of the government,” Lacambra said.
    “As one of the skills development training institutions in the province, it is our goal to empower you with essential digital skills and competencies and foster professional growth and enhance your capabilities in the modern workplace,” he added.
    Lacambra said trainings for the month included technical writing on 10 to 11 October, basic journalism on Oct. 12, digital literacy on Oct. 14 and basics of data analytics, also on Oct. 19.
 
 

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DOLE gives P22-M Tupad aid to 2.5K Abra, Apayao folks

TUPAD PAYOUT. Personnel from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)-Benguet distribute financial aid to residents in Baguio City on Aug. 18, 2023. The DOLE in Cordillera said they have so far given aid to 2,552 beneficiaries under the Tulong Pangkabuhayan sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers in the provinces of Abra and Apayao. (PNA photo from DOLE-CAR FB)

By Liza Agoot

BAGUIO CITY – Some 2,651 residents in the provinces of Abra and Apayao affected by Super Typhoon Egay have received P22 million worth of assistance from the Department of Labor and Employment-Cordillera Administrative Region (DOLE-CAR).
    Nathaniel Lacambra, regional director of the DOLE-CAR, said in an interview on Tuesday that the amount came from their contingency fund.
    "We extended assistance to 2,400 families under the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged / Displaced Workers (TUPAD) assistance of the department in Abra, while there were 251 in Apayao aided through the same program,” said Lacambra, saying in Abra alone, 3,300 houses were damaged by Egay.
    “We have exhausted our contingency fund of PHP22 million but we were promised by our central office that they will immediately replenish the fund,” he added.
    Apart from the contingency fund, affected residents can also expect help from other agencies and through other DOLE-assistance programs, said Lacambra.
    He added that they have instructed other local government units in need of assistance to submit a request so that the DOLE-regional office could ask the central office for possible funding.

Aside from Abra and Apayao declaring a state of calamity due to the damage, Mountain Province, Benguet, Kalinga and Baguio City have also placed their areas under a state of calamity. (PNA)

 

 

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2 NPA guerillas yield in Apayao, Ifugao

CAMP DANGWA, La Trinidad, Benguet -Two Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army guerillas voluntarily surrendered to authorities in the provinces of Apayao and Ifugao on August 16.
    Reports submitted to Cordillera police director Brig. Gen. David K. Peredo Jr. said both surrenderees were former members of Militia ng Bayan.
    In Apayao, the rebel returnee surrendered after series of negotiations conducted by Pudtol town police, 1st Apayao Provincial Mobile Force Company (PMFC), 1505th Maneuver Company of Regional Mobile Force Battalion 15 (RMFB15) and the Philippine Army’s 17th Infantry Brigade (17IB).
    The rebel returnee handed over a homemade pistol with five bullets for Cal. 5.56 to authorities.
    In Ifugao, the other rebel returnee surrendered to elements of Alfonso Lista town police,  2nd Ifugao PMFC, Regional Intelligence Unit 14 (RIU-14), the Provincial Intelligence Unit (PIU) of Ifugao Provincial Police Office, Regional Intelligence Division and 1501st Mobile Company of RMFB15 after  series of negotiations.
    He also handed over his Cal. 45, magazine, and five bullets.
     The rebel returnees are now under the custody of respective police units for custodial debriefing and proper disposition.

 

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Apayao declared in state of calamity; folks missing

LUNA, Apayao -- Apayao was declared under a state of calamity following devastation of Super Typhoon "Egay" which made landfall here July 25 and 26.
    The storm brought about widespread destruction, causing loss of lives, infrastructural damage and displacement of communities, with damage now totaling up to P1.2 billion.
    The provincial government, in coordination with national disaster response agencies, implemented declaration of a state of calamity for allocation of resources to respond to needs of affected communities.

    Egay packed maximum sustained winds of up to 185 kilometers per hour and brought torrential rains, flash floods and landslides.
    The severity of the typhoon caught many residents off guard, leading to devastating consequences in towns and villages.
    Latest reports said some individuals were still missing.
    Search-and-rescue operations are underway in collaboration with the Philippine National Police, Philippine Army, Bureau of Fire Protection and volunteer groups. Authorities were working to locate and assist those stranded or in distress.
    The typhoon's impact on infrastructure has been extensive, with power and communication lines severely damaged or completely disrupted. Major roads and bridges have also been rendered impassable due to landslides and debris.
    The provincial government coordinated with agencies to restore critical services and establish temporary shelters for those displaced by the disaster.
    In response to the situation, humanitarian aid and relief efforts from the national government are pouring into Apayao.
Relief goods, medical supplies and emergency equipment are being mobilized to help affected communities.
    But access to some remote areas remained challenging due to damage caused by the typhoon.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed his condolences to the families who lost their loved ones and pledged the full support of the national government in the recovery and rebuilding process.

    He assured affected residents that resources and assistance would be provided without delay.

Meanwhile, Gov. Elias Bulut Jr. urged residents in low-lying areas and landslide-prone areas to remain vigilant, due to risk of further flooding and landslides.

    The declaration of a state of calamity empowers the provincial government to mobilize emergency funds and resources more efficiently, which is crucial in addressing the immediate needs of the affected population.

 

 

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Bguio declares sisterhood ties with Luna Apayao

BAGUIO CITY -- City officials recently declared sisterhood and twinning ties between Baguio and the municipality of Luna in Apayao province.
    In a resolution authored by Councilor Maximo Edwin, Jr., it vers it is but proper for the city to reciprocate the earlier letter sent by the municipal government of Luna by declaring a sisterhood and twinning ties with the said municipality to develop relationships and promote the exchange of best practices between the two local governments.
    Considered by the local legislative body was the verbal expression of Councilor Edwin, Jr., the city’s Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR), on the evening of July 14, 2023 in a banquet prepared by the local government of Luna for the guest who attended the 36th founding anniversary of the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) that signified his intention to establish sisterhood relationship between Luna and Baguio City.
    The council pointed out that the city government is committed to establishing sisterhood and twinning alliances with other cities and municipalities of like qualities for the purpose of fostering long-term mutual partnership that assist communities gain national and global perspective to the challenges they face through planned cultural, educational, business or trade and humanitarian assistance exchanges as expressed in City Ordinance No. 42, series of 2008 otherwise known as the Sisterhood and Twinning Ordinance.

Pursuant to the aforesaid ordinance, it has been a policy of the city government to prescribe and formalize structures for the development and sustainability of its sisterhood and twinning programs.

The council also authorized the local chief executive to enter into a memorandum of understanding or memorandum of agreement on the establishment of the sisterhood ties between Baguio and Luna.

The body also endorsed the approved resolution to the Philippine International Sisterhood and Twinning Association–Baguio City chapter committee to prepare the necessary documents to effect the establishment of sisterhood ties as mandated in Administrative Order No. 88, series of 201. By Dexter A. See

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First dairy processing center to rise in Apayao

GROUNDBREAKING -- Officials of the Provincial Government of Apayao and Philippine Carabao Center attend groundbreaking ceremony for a dairy processing facility in Luna town in Apayao Monday, June 26. The facility will house modern equipment and facilities necessary for milk collection, processing, packaging and distribution. (Photo courtesy of the Provincial Government of Apayao)

By Leilanie Adriano 

LUNA, Apayao -- A pioneering hub for the production and processing of dairy products will soon rise in Apayao province.
    Located at the Apayao Eco-Tourism and Sports Complex in here in Barangay San Gregorio, the facility aims to support growing dairy farming industry in Apayao and enhance the livelihood of local farmers.
    “Apayao really needs to have a dairy processing facility to regulate our dairy products. Our constituents really need it to sustain our livelihood programs. And it’s so nice to dream that someday, Apayao will produce high-quality milk, cheese, and even yogurt,” said Apayao Rep. Eleanor Bulut-Begtang in a statement on Tuesday.
    As one of the country's pilot sites for the Carabao-Based Business Improvement Network (CBIN),     Apayao received an initial P10 million worth of assistance from the office of Senator Cynthia Villar in 2022 for the initial construction of a dairy box, along with the provision of 71 heads of dairy carabaos, two motorcycles, equipment, capability building training and other technical support services to facilitate production, processing, and marketing of dairy products.
    As a counterpart, the local government unit provided a forage area and housing requirements.
    Once operational, the dairy facility is expected to streamline the production and processing of dairy products, ensuring that high-quality standards are met.
    It will also house modern equipment and facilities necessary for milk collection, processing, packaging, and distribution.
    By centralizing these operations, the facility will optimize efficiency and reduce costs, ultimately benefiting both the producers and consumers.
    In addition, the project aims to address the challenges faced by local farmers by providing training and technical assistance.
    In partnership with the Philippine Carabao Center, local farmers will undergo basic skills training on carabao management, feeding, and breeding, as well as increasing milk production and improving the overall quality of their herds.
    Following the conduct of a groundbreaking ceremony on June 26, PCC Region 2 Regional Director Rovina Piñera expressed her gratitude to the Apayao government officials who pursued the project.
    “It’s so nice to work with the Apayao government. All transactions went smoothly and there is no politics involved. I hope that someday, Apayao will become the best CBIN site in the northern region,” said Piñera in an interview Tuesday as she vowed the PCC’s all-out support for the project.
    Earlier this month, at least 40 eligible farmers started attending a seven-month Farmer Livestock School on Large Ruminant Production with PHP3 million in funding from the provincial government.
Apayao is among the top raisers of buffalo in the Cordillera Region with 18,175 heads as of July 2022 based on the latest livestock survey of the Philippine Statistics Authority. -- PNA
 
 

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Miner drowns in Apayao river

CONNER, Apayao -- A 30-year-old miner was found dead after drowning here in Matalag River at Sitio Cubet Barangay Malama March 26, 2023, the regional police information office said.
    According to Conner Municipal Police Station, the victim with his family went for a picnic at the place.    
    While they were swimming, the victim went to the deep part of the river, then his family lost sight of him.
    His family immediately called for help from the barangay officials who also sought help from police, fire and disaster personnel.
    The responding team conducted a search and rescue operation and found the victim unconscious underwater.
    The victim was brought to Conner District Hospital by the responding personnel for medical treatment but declared dead on arrival by the attending physician.
 

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More cases set vs NCIP, Apayao pols over dam

For ‘threats, estafa, falsification of documents, corruption’ 

                                         Kabugao, Apayao                                                

By Karlston Lapniten

BAGUIO CITY – Lawyers representing community folks in Kabugao, Apayao in multiple cases filed against employees of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) and local officials are set to file more cases against the same persons over the Kabugao dam issue.
    Since the start of February, the collaboration of lawyers said they have been receiving reports their clients were being threatened and harassed by the same accused persons in two criminal and administrative cases filed last December and January.
    “We cannot disclose the nitty-gritty yet but we received at least 20 complaints of threats and harassment, and we have evidences to back them,” said lawyer Ryan James Solano, spokesman of the group.
    The collaboration of law offices includes those of RA Cortes, Molintas and Partners, Donaal and Partners, Lidua, Daping and Partners, BMW Law; Comafay Law and Free Legal Assistance Group (FLAG).
    The prior cases were filed before the Office of the Ombudsman and the Provincial Prosecutor for estafa, falsification of documents, and use of falsified documents as well as for acts penalized by the Ombudsman Act and the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.
    Charged in these cases are NCIP Cordillera employees which include NCIP Acting Regional Director lawyer Atanacio Addog, engineers Benito Bangao and Kenny Pulog; Fritzie D. Depdepen, Karla Dazzle Marie Mallillin, Agnes Gabuat, lawyer Geoffry Calderon, Genaro Failoga, Jezryl Inopia, and Carter Ayabo.
    Also named accused are Apayao Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative John Anthony Amid and Kabugao Vice - Mayor Fabulous Tucjang.
    “After receiving their subpoenas, some of these unscrupulous persons had the nerve to go to our clients and threaten them with counter charges and speak ill,” said Solano of RA Cortes Law.
    Being public officials, the cases being prepared this time will be filed before the Department of Interior and Local Government, and the Office of the Ombudsman, aside from possible criminal charges.
    “We challenge these despicable people to walk the talk and file the case, if any. We are more than willing to face them in the proper forum,” he said.
    The initial complaints filed earlier stemmed from a December 2019 community resolution naming several persons as “representatives” in negotiating with Pan Pacific Renewable Power Philippines Corporation (Pan Pacific) over its proposed 150-megawatt Gened-1 Hydroelectric Power Project (HEPP).
    Pan Pacific, a hydropower firm, intends to build two mega dam facilities along the Apayao River, affecting the ancestral domain of the Isnag.
    Many of the complainants claimed their signatures were forged as they did not sign any resolution to that effect, while others claimed they were deceived into signing the document as a receipt for government aid.
Several others who had signatures were also long dead. Some community elders even executed an affidavit denying having signed documents which agreed to the construction of the dam.
    The NCIP regional review team, which reviewed the Free Prior Informed Consent (FPIC) process conducted, also noticed the evidently falsified signatures, repeated signatories, and dubious signatures.
    It also observed irregularities such as holding FPIC activities outside the ancestral domain, and failure to observe consensus-building processes, among others.
    However, the formal review and opposition of the community were brushed aside by then NCIP regional director Marlon Bosantog.

The questioned resolution was then used to usher the processing of the FPIC which led to the issuance of the Certification Precondition (CP), now also a subject of complaint at the NCIP Commission En Banc.

Bosantog and accused Addog and Calderon, were declared “persona non grata” through two Kabugao community resolutions in 2021.

The group of lawyers also received information that the government officials charged in the cases filed purportedly asked Pan Pacific for P3 million to bankroll their legal fees.

Additionally, Solano said the persons charged even accordingly boasted to communities that cases filed will eventually be dismissed because they are well-backed by politicians and many lawyers.

“That is a huge insult to the justice system and an arrogant display of disregard to the rule of law,” he said.

On top of the cases being prepared, the collaboration of lawyers is expected to file seven separate more cases before the Ombudsman and the Provincial Prosecutor.

The lawyers also asked the Regional State Prosecutor to order the entire Apayao Provincial Prosecutor’s Office to inhibit from handling the case.

Proposed right at the heart of Apayao’s capital town of Kabugao, Gened-1 and the 250-MW Gened-2 HEPP threaten to submerge the Kabugao and Tawit ancestral domains.

Both are projects of San Miguel Corp. (SMC)-controlled Pan, one of the eight Philippine conglomerates and corporations that benefited from the $3-billion loan agreement the Duterte administration entered with China in 2016.

According to a June 2021 FPIC report, the Gened-1 dam, if it pushes through, will submerge communities in the barangays or villages of Bulu, Magabta, Poblacion, and Waga in Kabugao town, and Lt. Balag in Pudtol town. At least five other Kabugao villages will also be directly affected.

Aside from displacing hundreds of village folks, Gened-1 will destroy the Isnag burial grounds and their traditional fishing grounds and farms, according to the complainants. It will also severely alter the biodiversity of the Apayao, dubbed the “last nature frontier of the Cordillera.”

    Apayao is listed as a “key biodiversity area” by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. The province’s pristine biodiversity was brought to the spotlight in 2011 when sightings of Philippine eagles were confirmed in the forests of Kabugao, Calanasan, and Pudtol. 

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IPs sue NCIP, Apayao officials for corruption

Cases filed with Ombudsman, prosecutor 

By Karlston Lapniten

BAGUIO CITY — Isnag villagers from barangays Lenneng and Poblacion of Kabugao, Apayao sued multiple officials of the National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP) and two local government officials before the Office of the Ombudsman and the Provincial Prosecutor recently.
    Filed separately, complainants from barangay Poblacion filed before the Ombudsman in Quezon City 54 counts each of estafa, falsification of documents, and use of falsified documents as well as for acts penalized by the Ombudsman Act and the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act on Jan. 25.
    A separate case for the same charges were filed before the Apayao Provincial Prosecutor was filed on Jan. 19 in Luna, Apayao.
    Villagers from barangay Lenneng filed 104 counts for the same charge also before the Provincial Prosecutor last Jan. 6. They filed same charges before the Ombudsman on December 28.
    Among those accused are NCIP Cordillera Acting Regional Director Atanacio Addog, Apayao NCIP Provincial Officer Agnes Gabuat, Apayao NCIP Provincial Legal Officer Geoffrey Calderon, Kabugao NCIP Acting Head Jezryl Inopia, and the NCIP FPIC team.
    Also named accused are Kabugao Vice Mayor Fabulous Tucjang, Municipal Indigenous People Mandatory Representative John Anthony Amid, and several individuals.
    The complaints stemmed from a December 2019 community resolution naming several persons as “representatives” in negotiating with Pan Pacific Renewable Power Philippines Corporation (Pan Pacific) over its proposed 150-megawatt Gened-1 Hydroelectric Power Project (HEPP).
    Pan Pacific, a hydropower firm, intends to build two mega dam facilities along the Apayao River, affecting the ancestral domain of the Isnag.
    Many of the complainants claimed their signatures were forged as they did not sign any resolution to that effect, while others claimed they were deceived into signing the document as a receipt for government aid.
    Several others who had signatures were also long dead. Some community elders even executed an affidavit denying having signed documents which agreed to the construction of the dam.
    The NCIP Regional Review Team, which reviewed the Free Prior Informed Consent (FPIC) process conducted, indicated in its observation the evidently falsified signatures, repeated signatories, and dubious signatures, among others.
    It also observed irregularities such as holding FPIC activities outside the ancestral domain, and failure to observe consensus-building processes, among others.
    However, the formal review and opposition of the community were brushed aside by the then-NCIP Regional Director Marlon Bosantog.
    The questioned resolution was then used to usher the processing of the FPIC which lead to the issuance of the Certification Precondition (CP), now also a subject of complaint at the NCIP Commission En Banc.
    The cases are primarily handled by Rene Cortes Law in cooperation with Jose Molintas Law, Christopher Donaal and Partners Law, Nelson Lidua Law, BMW Law, and the Free Legal Assistance Group (FLAG).
    Ryan James Solano of Cortes Law said the four cases filed by the two barangays are just the preliminary fire as there are seven more barangays who will be filing.
    The nine barangays are listed as the “directly affected” barangays by the construction of the proposed giant 150-megawatt dam.
    “We cannot just close our eyes to these injustices, more so that it is done by the people in the agency which is supposed to protect the Indigenous People,” said Solano, who is an Ibaloy from Baguio City.
    Interestingly, Bosantog, Addog, and Calderon, all lawyers, were declared Persona Non Grata through two community resolutions in 2021.
    Kurdel Paroy, also Cortes Law, said they also asked the Regional State Prosecutor to order the entire Apayao Provincial Prosecutor to inhibit from handling the case.  
    “The initial cases are not even a question whether the dam should be built or not, it is merely a question whether the community resolution was duly acquired,” said Paroy.
    Proposed right at the heart of Apayao’s capital town of Kabugao, Gened-1 and the 250-MW Gened-2 HEPP threaten to submerge the Kabugao and Tawit ancestral domains.
    Both are projects of San Miguel Corp. (SMC)-controlled Pan, one of the eight Philippine conglomerates and corporations that benefited from the $3-billion loan agreement the Duterte administration entered with China in 2016.
    According to a June 2021 FPIC report, the Gened-1 dam, if it pushes through, will submerge communities in the barangays or villages of Bulu, Magabta, Poblacion, and Waga in Kabugao town, and Lt. Balag in Pudtol town.     At least five other Kabugao villages will also be directly affected.
    Aside from displacing hundreds of village folks, Gened-1 will destroy the Isnag burial grounds and their traditional fishing grounds and farms, according to the complainants. It will also severely alter the biodiversity of the Apayao, dubbed the “last nature frontier of the Cordillera.”
    Apayao is listed as a “key biodiversity area” by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. The province’s pristine biodiversity was brought to the spotlight in 2011 when sightings of Philippine eagles were confirmed in the forests of Kabugao, Calanasan, and Pudtol.

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Apayao province, 14 Mt Province, Benguet towns cited ‘most peaceful towns’

CAMP DANGWA, La Trinidad, Benguet -- The province of Apayao and 14 municipalities were adjudged most peaceful places in Cordillera Region.
    This was bared during command conference presided by Cordillera police director Brig. Gen. Mafelino A. Bazar.
Apayao was adjudged “most peaceful province in Cordillera” with only 32 focused crime incidents recorded for year 2022.
    Certificate of recognition was received by Apayao provincial police director Col. Jefferson Cariga.
    During the conference, the municipalities of Tubo, Bucloc, and Daguioman in Abra were recognized for recording one crime incident each the past five years.
    Special recognition were also given to Boliney, Bucloc, Daguioman, Luba, San Quintin, Tubo and Tineg in Abra; Barlig, Besao and Natonin in Mountain Province; and Kabayan in Benguet for registering zero crime incidents for year 2022.

    Bazar led distribution of certificates of recognition and cash incentives during the simple rites here on Jan.18.

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4 men arrested in Apayao for shabu

CONNER, Apayao – Four drug personalities were arrested after a search warrant was implemented in two of the suspects’ houses.
    One of the houses yielded four sachets of suspected shabu.
    Reports reaching Cordillera police director Brig. Gen. Mafelino A. Bazar bared arrested were Aileen Dappay Bali, 43; Francisca Follo Bangngay, 37 and Guadles Follo Marquez, 32,  all residents of Barangay Caglayan, Conner.
    This, after search warrant was implemented in the residence of Bali.
    In the course of their operation, police found four sachets of suspected shabu weighing around 0.45 grams worth P3,060 and sachet containing suspected shabu.
     Inventory of confiscated items was witnessed by Prosecutor Erwin Aguda and punong barangay kagawad Ariel A .Donato of Caglayan.
    The suspects and confiscated items were brought into the custody of Conner police
    Latest to be arrested was Wagner Guillermo Credo, 44 of Barangay Malekkeg, Sta Marcela was also nabbed when police found two sachets of suspected shabu weighing around 0.6 grams worth P4,080.00.
     Inventory of the confiscated items was witnessed by Zairene Kaye Cadaoas of Dept. of Justice and village chief Felovenie Saliganan and Michael G. Labbao of Malekkeg, Sta Marcela.
    The suspects are now facing charges for violation of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

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Gun, bullets found after Apayao NPA- army clash

By Villamor Visaya Jr.

KABUGAO, Apayao -- Army soldiers found a gun and assorted ammunition allegedly owned by New People’s Army (NPA) rebels after a morning skirmish here Tuesday, Dec. 6, the military said Wednesday.
    Army Captain Rigor Pamittan, 5th Infantry Division public affairs chief and spokesperson, told this writer in an interview Wednesday, Dec. 6, seized were M-16 Armalite rifle, bullets, a magazine, notebook with anti-government information, and a poncho now under safekeeping of the 102nd Infantry Battalion after the clash in Barangay Maragat.
    Army soldiers were conducting a combat operation after receiving a tip from villagers about the communist rebels operating in the Apayao-Abra area.
    A brief firefight ensued when the state troops encountered the alleged rebels, which ended with the communist guerrillas allegedly withdrawing.
    Pamittan said Apayao Gov. Elias Bulut ordered allotting financial rewards to lawmen and villagers who could arrest or kill a “terrorist group leader or member.”
    The order did not elaborate on the legality of the killing and how to curb abuses due to the order.

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Apayao gov hit for offering P1-M to kill ‘communists’

Rights group: Red-tagged activists endangered 

HUMAN RIGHTS group Karapatan assailed Apayao Gov. Elias Bulut, Jr. for issuing “an official order which the former said, may be “used to drive and encourage extrajudicial killings.”
    In an executive order dated Sept. 30, 2022 Bulut offered reward money of P100,000 for anyone who “captures, arrests or kills in a legitimate military operation a member of the communist terrorist group (CTG), meaning the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) .
    “The governor upped the bounty to P1,000,000 if the person arrested, captured or killed is a “high-ranking CTG personality,” Karapatan said.
    This is a kill order, said Karapatan secretary-general Cristina Palabay. “It gives the go-signal for anyone to arbitrarily attack and kill political activists who have been repeatedly threatened and red-tagged, and be paid handsomely for it.”
    “Is it just coincidence that last Oct. 25, Lorraine Badoy and the other talking heads of NTF-ELCAC recited the names of members and community leaders of the Cordillera Peoples Alliance (CPA) as ‘mga pangalan ng CPP-NPA’ on their program aired over the SMNI network?” asked Palabay.
    “A Cordilleran governor issues a hit order with bounty, then Badoy and her ilk come up with a hit list comprised of Cordilleran activists,” said Palabay. “Following the pattern we have observed in other cases,” she said. “It looks like CPA leaders and activists are being set up not only for intensified threats, harassment and intimidation, but for arrest, capture or murder.”
    “With incessant red-tagging and this latest bounty offer, the State has cranked up its deadly campaign to suppress human rights defenders and other activists working for people’s rights and welfare,” said Palabay.
    “All freedom-loving Filipinos must forge ranks to counter these virulent and stepped-up attacks on our civil and political rights,” Palabay said.

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New road to boost agri growth in Apayao town, end local insurgency

By Elvy T. Estacio

Residents from the far-off barangays of Flora, Apayao are now starting to reap the benefits of the improved Sta. Maria-Mallig-Upper Atok Farm-to-Market Road (FMR).
    Implemented under the Department of Agriculture – Philippine Rural Development Project (DA-PRDP) and the Provincial Local Government Uni (PLGU) of Apayao, the 11.8-kilometer road project attained a 100% physical accomplishment rate today, June 30, 2022, according to the Joint Inspectorate Team (JIT).
    With its completion, the FMR is now benefitting more than 298 households within its road influence area. It covers three barangays, namely, Sta. Maria, Mallig, and Upper Atok, where bulk of the municipality’s banana production comes from.
    Apayao Provincial Agriculturist Prudencio G. Bosing said that the road improvement has facilitated the movement of commodities that are produced within the project area, particularly banana, since the municipality of Flora is where large plantations of banana can be found.
    Before the road improvement, sledge carts and carabaos are mostly used by farmers in transporting their agricultural produce from their farms/residences to the nearest public utility transport post located at barangay Sta. Maria. Now, private vehicles and motorcycles can now safely pass through the road without hassle.
    Despite the improvement, the barangays covered by the FMR are besieged by the local insurgency, particularly Upper Atok and parts of Mallig. With the infrastructure project giving life to the community, current Apayao Governor and Congresswoman-elect Eleanor C. Begtang-Bulut reported that several rebels have already yielded for a chance at more livelihood opportunities.
    “This PRDP road in Flora has really helped us in our efforts to end local insurgency and because of this road, more than 200 leftists in barangay Upper Atok have surrendered recently,” Governor Begtang-Bulut said.
Approved in October 2020, to develop the banana industry in the province, the PhP195.95-million worth FMR is shared by the World Bank (80% loan proceeds), the national government through the DA (10%), and the PLGU of Apayao (10%).
    To ensure the smooth completion of the FMR, a final inspection was conducted from June 22-23, 2022 by JIT composed of representatives from the cluster and regional levels of the DA-PRDP, together with representatives from the Goldrich Construction and Trading and from the PPMIU of LGU Apayao.
 

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Apayao pushes agro- tourism to up income

Municipal Hall of Pudtol, Apayao. 

By Leilanie Adriano 

PUDTOL, Apayao -- This small town banking on its vast forests, clean rivers, and various agricultural products to achieve sustainable development.
    In time for the 7th Pinya Festival, re-elected Mayor Hector Reuel Pascua said in an interview on Wednesday his administration is bent on stirring economic activity in the area with a greater focus on enhancing business competitiveness and livelihood development while building on support facilities to promote agro-tourism.
    Pascua said the local government unit has observed the growth of local businesses despite the pandemic as more people began sourcing their needs from the municipality.
    “People were used to traveling and they get their supply outside,” said Pascua.
    With government intervention programs, the municipality is eyeing to enhance business competitiveness in the area by constructing business trade centers and encouraging more public and private partners to invest in the town.
    But as a fourth-class municipality, the mayor admitted that the Pudtol government will be needing additional funds for various infrastructure support services for the farmers including micro, small, and medium enterprises.
    With an incoming president and vice president who used to be in local government service, Pascua is optimistic that small and underserved towns like Pudtol will be given more opportunities to realize their potential in the face of global health crisis.
    The local chief executive is thankful that its agro-tourism industry is starting to pick up.
    “We have accredited learning sites showcasing various technologies and best practices in agriculture and these are located near our tourist destinations,” said Pascua, citing harmonious working relations between the public and private sectors. 

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