Satellite offices give convenience to NBI clients in Caraga

BUTUAN CITY - The National Bureau of Investigation in Caraga Region (NBI-13) has expanded its services from a single office in Butuan City in 1995 to four satellite offices as of 2023, providing greater accessibility to residents in the region. NBI-13 Regional Director Sally Hans Barbaso said the opening of satellite offices in Patin-ay, Prosperidad in Agusan del Sur, Tandag City in Surigao del Sur, Surigao City in Surigao del Norte, and the latest in Dinagat Islands has made it easier for clients to access services such as NBI clearances. "To effectively serve the region, we have established strong partnerships with local government units (LGUs),' Barbaso said during the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas forum on Tuesday. These collaborations allow LGUs to request NBI Mobile Online Clearance services, bringing bureau services to remote areas. As of September 2024, NBI-13 has issued 25,515 clearances, with additional clearances provided through satellite offices: 10,612 in Agusan del Sur, 13,015 in Surigao Cit y, 5,114 in Tandag City, and 647 in Dinagat Islands. Barbaso also highlighted the bureau's Quick Renewal Services, where clients can renew their NBI clearances online and opt for pickup or home delivery. Investigation Services In addition to clearance services, NBI-13 works closely with law enforcement agencies on crime investigations. In 2023, NBI-13 handled 44 cases, investigating 38, filing 18 in court, and closing 20. A key case involved the arrest of Jeyrence Quilario, leader of Socorro Bayanihan Services Inc. (SBSI), on charges related to human trafficking, kidnapping, child marriage, and child abuse. In 2024, the bureau received 23 cases, with 14 under investigation, nine filed, and five closed. In Agusan del Sur, 32 cases were received this year, with 27 under investigation, eight filed in court, and 24 resolved. Source: Philippines News Agency