Unity, cooperation help combat COVID-19, insurgency in Caraga – Gov. Corvera
By Nora C. Lanuza
BUTUAN CITY — In this trying times, where health crisis brought about by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is affecting the Caraganons, Governor Dale B. Corvera of the province of Agusan del Norte is positive that unity and cooperation are important factors to overcome the health and insurgency problems in the region.
During the virtual meeting of the Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC) held on Tuesday presided by Cabinet Secretary Karlo Alexis Nograles, chairperson of the Caraga RTF-ELCAC, Governor Corvera has expressed his appreciation to other local chief executives and officers for their presence.
“It is just a proof of the utmost commitment and support to a united effort to end local communists armed conflict in the region,” said Gov. Corvera, who is also the chairperson of the Regional Development Council and One Caraga Shield Task Force COVID-19.
“Despite the limitations and challenges we are facing due to the current health crisis, we are able to adopt alternative platforms to meet, because apart from the COVID-19, we have other equally pressing concerns – that is peace and security situation of our region,” he added.
Governor Corvera also lauded the local chief executives (LCEs) of the region for being committed and productive amidst the challenges to ensure that their tasks as LCEs are still effectively carried out for the welfare of their constituents.
“Despite the serious socio-economic impacts brought about by the health crisis, still, the LCEs continue to strive for Caraga region’s goals. The collaboration between the government, private sector and the civil society is indeed invaluable,” he said.
Corvera also encouraged everyone present to remain steadfast in their commitment, not timid in their actions, and be bold in aspirations because every Caraganon deserves a life free from violence and any form of insecurity.
“I believe that amidst this pandemic, we should not put on hold our efforts towards ending local armed conflict in the region, as this lingering issue adds unnecessary burden to our already health-threatened constituents,” Gov. Corvera said.
He is also hoping that in the next two years, the environment and community for the Caraganons will not only safe from the virus, but at the same time also safe from the violence of insurgents.
During the meeting, Corvera informed the group that in the recent 101st Caraga RDC Full Council meeting held on March 11, 2020, the council has endorsed an estimated proposed budget allocation of P35.75 Billion for FY 2021, which is intended for priority programs, projects, and activities in geographically isolated, disadvantaged, and conflict-affected areas in the region.
The said meeting was participated by the different local chief executives and head of offices and representatives from the government and private offices of the region. (NCLM/PIA Agusan del Norte)
