PROVINCE OF SURIGAO DEL SUR

Autism Consciousness Week (3rd Week of January) Every third week of January is celebrated as National Autism Consciousness Week. This is the time to raise awareness through sharing vital information about this lifelong neurological disorder and to bolster our commitment for the inclusion of people with autism. This annual celebration is conducted as a response to the increasing statistics of Filipinos diagnosed with this condition and has been supported by the Proclamation No. 711 signed on Jan. 4, 1996, by then President Fidel Ramos. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability characterized by social and communication deficits that impede optimal functioning. The cause of this condition has remained unknown yet has been linked to genetics. Some autistic people have difficulty in making eye contact, understanding or using spoken language and expressing emotions or feelings which sometimes lead to self-harming behavior, tantrums and aggression. These characteristics of autism may be detected in early childhood, but autism is often not diagnosed until much later. Social, emotional, communication or behavioral challenges, or a combination, are common among people with autism. If you care for someone with autism, you may notice that they may not react to, interact with, or learn about people and things in the same way you do. These differences, which often require a modified approach to communication and care, may include: •Difficulty or inability to adapt when routines or environments change •Trouble expressing themselves through typical words or gestures •Unusual reactions or aversions to certain sounds, textures, smells, tastes, and sights •Trouble relating to, having an interest in, or communicating with other people •Avoidance of eye contact or socialization •Difficulty understanding their own or other’s feelings •Aversion to touch •Repetitive or restrictive behaviors •Repetitive speech •Difficulty communicating needs •Misunderstanding of directions or questions •Taking everything literally (even when it’s not meant that way) •Unusual attachments to objects or preoccupation with specific interests or actions When caring for adults on the spectrum, certain strategies can help caregivers improve communication, promote a calmer and more productive daily routine, and support continued personal growth. SCHEDULE AMPLE TIME FOR COMMUNICATION Language and social skills vary widely among people with ASD. Some adults with autism have minimal communication challenges, perhaps just taking things too literally or having trouble with certain social cues. Others may be hard to understand, have trouble following conversations or directions, or even be completely nonverbal. Time and patience are essential for improving communication. When talking with someone you’re caring for, whether it’s an everyday conversation or you’re trying to explain something more challenging, it’s important to be respectful and address the person like an adult. As you speak, try to focus on being as literal, clear, and direct as possible, avoiding sarcasm, metaphors, and abstract language, as these may be difficult to understand. Exercise patience as you wait for a response, as someone with ASD may need a little extra time to process what you’ve just said before they can verbally or physically respond. Then, take time to listen and try to understand what they are saying. If needed, you can ask the person to repeat their response or you can pose a few more questions to clarify what they mean, as long as those follow-ups are respectful and patient. Finally, it’s important to offer honest but kind feedback – based on the person’s level of communication and understanding – about any socially inappropriate behaviors or areas they can focus on to make communication a little easier. Supportive, patient communication goes a long way. REINFORCE CONSISTENCY People with autism often have trouble adjusting to changes in routines, schedules, and environments. Changes may bring about anxiety, frustration, and even emotional outbursts. Consistency can help someone with autism feel more in control and may bring them some comfort if they’re feeling otherwise anxious. By trying to establish consistency in their environment and daily routines, you can help an adult with autism feel more independent and secure, relieve some of the stress they may be feeling, help them achieve their goals, and improve your relationship. Depending on the level of care you’re providing and the person’s individual needs, goals, and challenges, your daily routines together can vary. They will often involve getting ready for the day, meal preparation and eating, daily chores and responsibilities, social activities and/or hobbies, therapies, and education or employment (when applicable). Creating a basic list or outline of each task the person sets out to, or should, complete each day can help. This daily schedule should include how long each task or activity is expected to take and what steps are included within each task or activity. Setting alarms or timers for when certain activities should begin is helpful for many people, as is marking a calendar with important appointments and events. A visual reminder of the steps to follow in each task – whether a bulleted list or a chart with picture representations, depending on the individual’s level of ability – can help them stick to a consistent routine. You may need to provide guidance through each step until they get the hang of it, and offer praise (and sometimes rewards) for a job well done. As you establish this consistency, a daily routine will become easier for the person with ASD to maintain. Gradually adding new tasks, or steps for each task, can help someone become more flexible, but try to follow the individual’s pace and be respectful of their comfort level. PARTICIPATE IN EMOTIONAL PREPARATION Any kind of change can be difficult for someone with autism. A move to a new home, a new or different therapy, a trip to an unfamiliar place, and major events like the death of a pet or loved one can be overwhelming to someone with Autism. Unexpected changes tend to be the most traumatic, and unfortunately there are some you can’t predict or prepare for. Being as supportive, patient, and kind as possible matters most in those moments. But for changes you can plan for, clear communication can make a big difference in how a person with autism is able to handle the situation. As far in advance as possible, you should tell the person with Au Every third week of January is celebrated as National Autism Consciousness Week- a time to raise awareness through sharing vital information about this lifelong neurological disorder and to bolster our commitment for the inclusion of people with autism. This annual celebration is conducted as a response to the increasing statistics of Filipinos diagnosed with this condition and has been supported by the Proclamation No. 711 signed on Jan. 4, 1996, by then President Fidel Ramos. GIVE THEM PERSONAL SPACE While some people with autism frequently overstep the social conventions of personal space – perhaps talking too close to others or hugging strangers – many others have difficulty with both the social and sensory aspects of interaction. Some individuals with Autism don’t like making eye contact or engaging with others because they have trouble understanding and responding to social cues within a conversation. Others are overwhelmed by noisy conversation or don’t like to be touched. A hug, handshake, or brush on the arm may make them feel anxious and very uncomfortable. That’s why it’s so important to give adults with autism their personal space. Forcing someone who feels this level of discomfort to talk to someone too closely, take someone’s hand (especially a stranger), or hug may lead to trust and communication issues. Try to assess their level of comfort. Let them come to you for a hug or a handshake and use other tactics to greet them or calm stressful situations, such as giving them a wave and a smile or saying something supportive or complimentary. REMAIN CALM AND PATIENT People with autism are dealing with a lot. They may feel like they have little control over their emotions or feel overwhelmed by normal sensory inputs like sounds, sights, and smells. They may be very anxious about a recent change in their lives or frustrated by their inability to understand and participate in a conversation as much as they’d like to. They may be completely unable to communicate verbally. Remaining calm and patient when talking with someone who has Autism, and helping them navigate everyday life, is so important because it comforts them and helps bring order and understanding to overwhelming situations. Showing empathy, telling (and showing) them that they are safe and valued, avoiding losing your temper whenever possible, offering comfort items or distractions, and trying to engage them in coping strategies (talking, deep breathing, yoga) can go a long way in your caregiving. Furthermore, caregiving to a person diagnosed with autism can be challenging on many levels. They often have constricted preferences and usually dwell on established routines or repetitive behaviors. These traits affect their eating habits and limit their food choices leading to certain health concerns because they may not meet the nutrients they need. Here are five (5) tips for caregivers in promoting healthy eating for autistic people: 1. Introduce Healthy Foods Gradually and Consistently. Trying new foods may be hard for people with ASD because they usually stick to their narrow food preferences. However, by introducing new foods in small proportions gradually and consistently can build familiarity for them. Hence, it is best to introduce food samples that are healthy and nutrient-dense such as fresh fruit and vegetables. 2. Be Prepared for Pickiness. Autistic people tend to be a picky eater due to their sensitivity to tastes, colors, smells and textures. As caregivers, dealing with their pickiness need loads of patience and must be done in a low-pressure, positive way. Approaching their sensory issues creatively like playing with food using fun shapes or mixing a new food with their favorite one or even involving them in the food preparation and letting them taste it can eventually help them become a more flexible eater. 3. Make Mealtimes as Routine. Meal anxiety is very common to people with Autism. Setting up an expected scheduled time for meals can help them identify it as part of their routine. As caregivers, you must be aware to the potential stressors during mealtimes- lights, furniture, table setting or even the food served itself. As much as possible, make their mealtimes easy and stress-free. You can make necessary adjustments like letting them pick their favorite food in every meal or letting them choose their favorite plate or seat at the table. 4. Keep a Food Diary. People with Autism may be prone to allergies due to food or medications. Thus, keeping track of their intake can help you identify which food they are sensitive to, and this can be used as a guide for alternatives or meal planning. 5. Seek Guidance from Dietitians. Malnutrition and vitamin deficiency are typically observed with people diagnosed with Austism. In making sure that they meet their nutrition needs, it is best to consult a registered dietitian to be able to carefully set up nutritious and balanced eating plan perfectly suited for them. By applying these tips, it can help caregivers to effectively manage the challenges of inadequate nutrition in people with Autism. These may serve as a guide for caregivers towards achieving healthy eating habits for the people affected by this condition that would eventually lead to improving their quality of life. References: Mayada, E. et al. (2012, June). Global prevalence of autism and other pervasive developmental disorders. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/aur.239 Autism Spectrum Disorder Traits. Retrieved from http://autismnt.org.au/discover/autism-spectrum-disorder-traits/ Ansel, K. (2021,July). Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and Diet. https://www.eatright.org/health/diseases-and-conditions/autism/nutrition-for-your-child-with-autism-spectrum-disorder-asd https://www.nnc.gov.ph/regional-offices/mindanao/region-xi-davao-region/6928-national-autism-consciousness-week-ways-to-promote-healthy-eating-for-autistic-people https://opensystemshealthcare.com/caring-adults-with-autism-asd/
Date Posted: January 17, 2023 | 1:21 AM

Revised Provincial Revenue Code One of the revenue generation strategies is to revise the province’s revenue code. Consequently, Hon. Governor Alexander T. Pimentel formed Executive Order No. 18, whereas an Oversight Committee was created on the revision of Provincial Fees and Charges of the Province of Surigao del Sur. This is in compliance with BLGF JMC No. 2019-01, whereas LGUs are ordered to impose just and reasonable fees and charges for all services rendered to the public, as also mentioned in LGC Section 153. Governor Pimentel pushed the local imposition of such policy. This is also one way to lessen the gap of the province’s dependency with the National Tax Allotment and sustain delivery of services to each constituent. So, early today, January 17, 2023, Oversight Committee member, Provincial Treasurer, Ms. Fermina D. Palangpang, presented the LFC Toolkit in connection with the Revised Provincial Revenue Code held at the PGO Conference Room inside the Capitol Building of the Province of Surigao del Sur, which would eventually be submitted to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Members for legislation. Such creation and presentation of LFC Toolkit was made possible by each member of the said Oversight Committee. Mr. Melvin Joy L. Yu, the Regional Director of the Bureau of Local Government Finance (BLGF) and Mr. Esmeraldo S. Raymundo, Provincial Administrator of the Province of Surigao del Sur, gave their respective motivational and challenging messages to all the participants of the said affair.
Date Posted: January 17, 2023 | 8:23 AM

NBI Tandag Satellite Office Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Tandag Satellite Office thru the efforts of Gov. Alexander "Ayek" T. Pimentel was formally opened last January 18, 2023 at the Provincial Capitol Complex, Telaje, Tandag City. The event commenced with a blessing ceremony officiated by Most Rev. Raul B. Dael, DD, Bishop of Tandag, which was followed by a ribbon cutting ceremony. Surigaonons who are in need of an NBI clearance and other NBI services can now save time and money as they no longer need to travel to other neighboring provinces to secure said documents. The Provincial Government of Surigao del Sur also provided the needed personnel to man the satellite office from Mondays to Fridays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The establishment of the new NBI Satellite Office in Tandag City is indeed a testament to the great work Gov. Pimentel and all partner agencies are doing in an effort to bring the government services closer to all Surigaonons. Present during the ceremony were Gov. Alexander T. Pimentel, Cong. Romeo S. Momo, Sr., OIC - NBI Caraga Regional Director Atty. Sally Hans C. Barbaso, Provincial Department heads and other dignitaries.
Date Posted: January 20, 2023 | 3:50 AM

Health Program Monitoring, Evaluation and Distribution of Supplies - SDS Municipalities (Lingig to Tago) Last January 16-17, 2023, the Provincial Health Office conducted monitoring, evaluation and distribution of logistics and supplies to the Municipality of Lingig down to the Municipality of Tago. Below are the health programs that were implemented during the said activities: 1. National Tuberculosis Program (Coordinator: Marie Ruth O. Mancao, RN- Nurse II) NTP Presentation of Indicators and Target for 2023 to Municipal Coordinators Collection of 4th Quarter 2022 Slides and Delivery of Anti-TB Drugs and Supplies 2. Reverse logistics for empty vials for COVID-19 vaccine. Persons responsible in this activity are Mrs. Mary Jill D. Alvizo, RN-Nurse I and Mr. Rodrigo S. Gordo- Sanitation Inspector IV 3. Distribution of Drug Testing Kits and Monitoring and Evaluation of Community Drug Based Rehabilitation Program (CDBRP) by Mrs. Mylienne L. Ariarte, RN- Sanitation Inspector III 4. Distribution of Plaques to RHU Cagwait and RHU Barobo for the Implementation of Adolescent Friendly Health Facility by Mrs. Mylienne L. Ariarte, RN- Sanitation Inspector III, (Provincial Adolescent Health Program) 5. Monitoring of supplies and medicines for Filaria, Schistosomiasis among RHUs and District Hospitals by Mr. Rodrigo S. Gordo- Sanitation Inspector IV 6. Inventory of Dengue Testing Kits NS1 among RHUs and District Hospitals by Mr. Rodrigo S. Gordo- Sanitation Inspector IV, (Provincial Dengue Coordinator) 7. Distribution of Nutrition Logistics, Monitoring of Micro Nutrient Stocks and Ongoing OPT 2023 by Mrs. Rebecca Y. Loren, RND- Nutrition Dietician II 8. Distribution of Diabetes Mellitus and Hypertension Logistics by Shanne D. Mandapat, RND- Nutrition Dietician I With these activities, achieving and having healthier Surigaonons is ensured. The Provincial Health Office of Surigao del Sur always make sure to have the health programs be implemented in every municipalities and cities within the Province of Surigao Del Sur.
Date Posted: January 24, 2023 | 1:51 AM

Province of Surigao Del Sur Joins the 2023 Goiter Awareness Week Celebration The Provicial of Surigao Del Sur headed by Honorable Governor Alexander Ty Pimentel through the Provincial Health Office joins the nation in the celebration of the 2023 Goiter Awareness Week (GAW). The Goiter Awareness Week is observed every fourth week of January by the virtue of the Presidential Proclamation No. 1188, signed on December 11, 2006, to boost public awareness on the prevention of Goiter and other Iodine Deficiency Disorders (IDD). The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of Region I also scaled-up its effort in reaching the producers and manufacturers to comply with the regulatory requirements and ensure standardized procedures for salt iodization. Iodine Deficiency is still a problem in the country especially in the elderly, lactating women, and pregnant women based on the result of the 2019 Expanded National Nutrition Survey done by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute of DOST. Lack of iodine may cause goiter, neurodevelopmental deficits and growth retardation in fetus, miscarriage and stillbirth, mental retardation, and cretinism. While the data is concerning, we still have ways on combating the said deficiency by: consuming iodine-rich foods like tuna, shrimps, seaweeds, and other seafood; purchasing of iodized salt with the Sangkap Pinoy Seal; proper usage of iodized salt in cooking like adding the salt in the last part of cooking and storage of salt in a dark container and away from sunlight to prevent the evaporation of the iodine content; lessening the intake of foods that cause low absorption of iodine by the thyroid; being smart in choosing food. Using iodized salt is a practical way of preventing goiter and IDD. Kumainment No. 7: Gumamit ng Iodized Salt aims for a massive campaign for the utilization of iodized salt in every household. Reference: https://www.nnc.gov.ph/regional-offices/luzon/region-i-lupangilocos/6975-nnc1-joins-the-2022-goiter-awareness-week-celebs
Date Posted: January 24, 2023 | 3:48 AM

Entry Conference on Baseline Assessment of Internal Control System (BAICS) Procedure The Provincial Internal Audit Service Office (PIASO) conducted its Entry Conference on Baseline Assessment of Internal Control System (BAICS) procedures on January 16, 2023, at the PHRMO Training Center, Legislative Building. The entry conference aims to discuss the objectives and scope of BAICS and solicit valuable inputs from the PHRMO. Present were Ace R. Orcullo, Provincial Human Resource Management Officer, Carolina P. Rivas-Tidalgo, EnP, Supervising Admin Officer of PHRMO, Regina V. Cuartero, Internal Auditor II and Imee Kaye C. Blasco, Internal Auditor II of PIASO.
Date Posted: February 2, 2023 | 1:55 AM

Orientation on Strategic Performance Management System (SPMS) - Coaching on OPCR and IPCR Formulation The Provincial Internal Audit Service Office personnel spearheaded by Gabriel C. Falcon, Jr., Provincial Internal Auditor attended the Orientation on Strategic Performance Management System (SPMS) - Coaching on OPCR and IPCR Formulation conducted by Carolina P. Rivas-Tidalgo, EnP, Supervising Administrative Officer of Provincial Human Resource Management Office on January 31 to February 1, 2023 at IAS Office. SPMS focused on linking individual performance with the agency’s organizational vision, mission and strategic goals. The orientation also aims to equip the personnel with further knowledge and help them formulate and align their Individual Performance and Commitment Review (IPCR) Targets with the Office Performance and Commitment Review (OPCR) Targets pursuant to CSC MC No. 6 s. 2012, Guidelines in the Establishment and Implementation of Agency Strategic Performance Management System (SPMS).
Date Posted: February 2, 2023 | 2:33 AM

STI/HIV-AIDS, Mental Health, Anti-Smoking, Substance Abuse and Gender Sensitivity Lectures - Provincial PNP Personnel Look! The Provincial Health Office was invited to speak in front of the Provincial PNP Personnel about STD/HIV-AIDS, Mental Health, Anti-Smoking, Substance Abuse and Gender Sensitivity. The aforementioned event took place at SDSPPO Multipurpose Hall last February 1, 2023. Afterwhich, the Provincial Health Office in collaboration with the ASTMMC-Blood Bank organized a blood donation during the said event .
Date Posted: February 6, 2023 | 1:55 AM

Provision of Dental Services at Barobo Central Elementary School and Tambis National High School Look! Basic Oral Health Services were offered to students of Barobo Central Elementary School last January 18, 2023. Afterwhich, the same team of the Provincial Health Office-Dental Program visited Tambis National High School last January 31, 2023 and offered the same to their students. The Provincial Dentist, Merla T.Cubero, DMD (Dentist III), oversaw these activities. The following are the basic oral health services rendered: > Oral Examination > Application of Fluoride Varnish > Pit and Fissure Sealant > Tooth Extraction > Advocacy on Oral Health Students of both school went home with huge smiles on their faces now that they have healthy teeth and were introduced to proper and healthy oral hygiene.
Date Posted: February 6, 2023 | 2:22 AM

Provision of Dental Services at Brgy. Puyat, Carmen, Surigao Del Sur Look! On February 3, 2023, Basic Oral Health Services were offered to residents of Brgy. Puyat, Carmen, Surigao Del Sur in collaboration with Carmen RHU. The Provincial Dentist, Merla T. Cubero, DMD (Dentist III), together with the Dental Team, spearheaded this activity. The following are the basic oral health services provided: > Oral Examination > Application of Fluoride Varnish > Pit and Fissure Sealant > Tooth Extraction > Advocacy on Oral Health This activity ensures that residents have healthy teeth, also to promote healthy oral hygiene.
Date Posted: February 6, 2023 | 2:30 AM

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