| Additional P5K bonus for govt
employees; Abad: LGU incentive rate up to Sanggunian |
| Source:
http://www.dbm.gov.ph |
|
In line with rewarding civil servants for their hard work and
motivating them towards higher productivity, Department of
Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Florencio “Butch” Abad
reported that government employees will be receiving a one-time
P5,000 bonus for the year starting on Monday, December 15.
According to DBM records as of October 31, about 1.4 million
national government employees (civilian and uniformed personnel)
will be granted the Productivity Enhancement Incentive (PEI) of
a maximum of P5,000 and totaling around P7 billion. Abad
clarified that this is on top of the year-end bonus equivalent
to a month’s pay and the additional P5,000 cash gift recently
provided by the department across-the-board.
“We will be providing our employees the PEI worth P5,000 as
recognition of their efforts and consistent showing this year.
We also hope to motivate them further to increase their
efficiency and overall performance as we collectively continue
pursuing our socio-economic development goals,” Abad said.
Under Budget Circular 2014-3, the PEI will be granted to
employees who are in active service as of October 31 and have
rendered at least a total or an aggregate of four months of
service for the year. On the other hand, employees who have
rendered less than four months will be entitled to pro-rated
PEI.
While the PEI of national government agencies will be sourced
from the Miscellaneous Personnel Benefits Fund (MPBF) under the
2014 budget, the PEI for the employees of government-owned and
-controlled corporations (GOCCs) and government financial
institutions (GFIs) will be charged against their respective
approved corporate operating budgets for the year.
The Budget Chief also highlighted that Local Government Unit
(LGU) employees are eligible to receive the PEI, to be charged
against the available funds of their respective LGUs and more
importantly, at rates that will be determined by their
respective local sanggunian.
This discretion, Abad noted, will be subject to the Personnel
Services limitation in LGU budgets under the Local Government
Code, the same guidelines on the eligibility of employees from
the Executive branch, and provided that the sanggunian shall
determine reasonable amounts and will not, in any way, adversely
affect the delivery of services to their respective communities.
“The PEI will help our employees in terms of their expenses now
that the holiday season is already upon us. At the same time, we
also hope to remind our personnel that their contributions and
commitment to the country are well acknowledged and counted upon
as we continue to respond to the needs of the Filipino people,”
Abad added.
Please follow the link for a copy of Budget Circular 2014-3:
http://www.dbm.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/Issuances/2014/Budget%20Circular/BC%202014%20-%203.pdf |
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| 33,000 DSWD-identified poor fisherfolk
to get livelihood aid |
| Source:
http://www.dswd.gov.ph |
|
| More than 33,000 poor fisherfolk identified through the
Department of Social Welfare and Development’s Listahanan shall
be prioritized in a livelihood support program of the Department
of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources
(DA-BFAR). The program, known as the Targeted Actions to Reduce
Poverty and General Economic Transformation (TARGET) in the
fishery sector, aims to provide poor fisherfolk with fishing
boats, motor engines, aquaculture inputs, and farm implements.
In addition, it shall enforce Executive Order 154 series of 2014
which sanctions or penalizes illegal fishing in the country. The
implementation of TARGET is in line with President Benigno S.
Aquino III’s social agenda of poverty alleviation and inclusive
growth in sectors with a high poverty incidence that include the
fisherfolk sector, which has a poverty incidence of 39.9%, the
highest among the nine basic sectors based on the 2012 Official
Poverty Statistics. This means that four out of 10 fisherfolk
are poor. DA Secretary Proceso Alcala said that improving the
lives of the 33,000 poor fisherfolk will reduce 4% of the
poverty incidence. “We are supportive of the goals of TARGET
program. We believe that converging the government’s resources
on the Listahanan-identified poor will translate to a higher
impact on poverty reduction,” DSWD Secretary Corazon
Juliano-Soliman said. Listahanan or the National Household
Targeting System for Poverty Reduction (NHTS-PR) is an
information management system that identifies who and where the
poor are. It makes available to national government agencies,
local government units, and other social protection stakeholders
a comprehensive list of poor households as a basis for
beneficiary identification. In 2011, the Listahanan identified
around 3.3 million poor farmers, foresters, and fisherfolk. The
33,000 beneficiaries of TARGET constitute 30% of 166,000
Listahanan-identified poor fishermen who are also registered in
BFAR’s Fisherfolk Registry System (FishR). The DSWD is set to
update the Listahanan database in 2015. In its second
assessment, the DSWD will get detailed information on the type
of occupation of each individual who will be assessed. “A
detailed information on occupation, including fishing, will
surely be helpful in the implementation and targeted delivery of
government social protection initiatives,” Sec. Soliman added. -
See more at:
http://www.dswd.gov.ph/2014/12/33000-dswd-identified-poor-fisherfolk-to-get-livelihood-aid/#sthash.LSrjoso1.dpuf |
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| Secretary De Lima commends CTA for
convicting a big-time Georgian arms smuggler |
| Source:
http://www.doj.gov.ph |
|
Justice Secretary Leila M. De Lima hailed the recent decision of
the Court of Tax Appeals convicting a Georgian national, who
smuggled into the country illegal firearms from Indonesia,
approximately amounting to more than PhP5 million.
The Court of Tax Appeals, Third Division meted the penalty of an
indeterminate term of eight (8) years and one (1) day of prision
mayor, as minimum, to ten (10) years of prision mayor, as
maximum, and to pay a fine of eight thousand pesos (PhP8,000),
without subsidiary imprisonment in case of insolvency and to pay
the costs against Lawrence John Burne for violation f the Tariff
and Customs Code of the Philippines.
The Court, likewise, ordered the forfeiture of the articles
confiscated from Burne in favor of the Philippine Government.
"This is a warning to all those who want to harm the economy,
those who want to deprive our country of rightful levies
including customs duties and taxes worth millions. Smugglers,
regardless of influence or economic stature, have no place in
our society but in jails," the Secretary said.
Investigation showed that sometime in August 2009, accused Capt.
Lawrence John Burne, master of the vessel MV UFUK with thirteen
(13) crew members who are all Georgian nationals arrived in
Mariveles, Bataan unlawfully and fraudulently importing and
bringing into the Philippines 20 wooden crates/boxes painted
black to conceal the nature and origin of the cargo containing
100 units of Indonesian rifles approximately valued at
PhP5,211,126.00 on board the vessel M/V UFUK from Jakarta,
Indonesia, with total duties and taxes of more than PhPl million
and ten (l0) units of pistol valued at almost PhP400,000.00 with
total duties and taxes amounting to more than PhP97,000.00.
Burne was apprehended by a team from the Bureau of Customs,
Philippine National Police and the Philippine Coast Guard for
alleged Violation of the Tariff and Customs Code for failure to
produce necessary documents to support the cargo of the vessel,
was detained at the Bureau of Immigration and posted a cash bail
bond of P120,000.00 in 2011. Unexpectedly, the accused has
jumped bail and is now a fugitive of the law.
“Once an accused jumps bail, escapes from prison or confinement,
or flees to a foreign country, he loses his standing in court
and unless he surrenders or submits to the jurisdiction of the
court, he is deemed to have waived any right to seek relief
therefrom,” the Court stressed in its decision.
“Burne cannot disown responsibility for the cargo that was
onboard the vessel at the time that he was in command as its
master. He may have been merely a substitute or replacement
captain, but at the time of the discovery of the smuggling, he
was the only captain in command,” the Court further said.
The Court concluded that his guilt has been established beyond
reasonable doubt and is guilty of committing unlawful
importation as defined under Section 3601 of the Tariff and
Customs Code of the Philippines.
Burne was indicted by the Department under the joint program,
Run After the Smugglers (RATS) of the DOJ and the Bureau of
Customs.
The Secretary commended Asst. State Prosecutor Ramon Chito R.
Mendoza for the successful prosecution of the case.
- See more at:
http://www.doj.gov.ph/news.html?title=Secretary%20De%20Lima%20commends%20CTA%20for%20convicting%20a%20big-time%20Georgian%20arms%20smuggler&newsid=332#sthash.xwJgGAdf.dpuf |
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| Fake smartphones, electronic goods seized
in Binondo raid |
| Source:
http://www.dof.gov.ph |
|
Joint inter-agency government operatives raided a warehouse of a
top online shop supplier in Binondo, Manila and seized various
counterfeit smartphones, electronic gadgets and accessories
worth at an estimated P70-Million on Monday (December 15, 2014).
Among the items seized are counterfeit Samsung Galaxy S4,
Samsung Galaxy Note, Samsung Galaxy Grand, Iphone 5c, Iphone 5s,
Iphone 4s, Nokia Duos, assorted Android tablets of various
brands, Apple Shuffle, smartphone casings, power banks, juice
blender, and Lacoste perfumes, among others. Some of the seized
items do not have ICC marks required for imported electronic
products and accessories.
The raided warehouse located in Barraca Street in Binondo
belonged to LFA Enterprises who claims to be the number one
supplier in the Philippines of electronic gadgets, toiletries,
small home appliances, and accessories to various popular online
shopping sites.
The raid was conducted by the combined operatives of the
National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Intellectual Property
Office (IPOPHL) and the Bureau of Customs (BOC) Enforcement
(NICE) Team and the Philippine National Police Criminal
Investigation and Detection Group (PNP CIDG), based on the
strength of a Warrant of Seizure and Detention (WSD) issued by
Port of Manila District Collector Mario Mendoza. The WSD was
issued on the complaint of several brand holders and their
representatives on the proliferation of counterfeit products
being marketed and sold online. Also present during the raid
were representatives of several brand holders.
The BOC NICE–CIDG Team is conducting follow through operations
and investigations to pin down and file charges against those
behind the LFA operations.
According to the National Committee on Intellectual Property
Rights (NCIPR), the government has seized P13.3-Billion worth of
fake goods in the first 11 months of the year with the biggest
contribution coming from the joint operations conducted by the
BOC, NBI, PNP, IPOPHL hauling in P9.34-Billion worth of
counterfeit products. |
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| Finance
Department Reviews 2014: Philippines in virtuous cycle
|
| Source:
http://www.dof.gov.ph |
|
“The Department of Finance (DOF) has finished 2014 strong,” DOF
Chief Economist and Undersecretary Gil Beltran of the Policy
Development and Management Services Group concluded at the DOF
year-end performance review last 15 December 2014.
Delivering remarks on Finance Secretary Cesar V. Purisima’s
behalf, Beltran noted that achievements in the year 2014 is part
of a virtuous cycle sprung by good governance reforms at the
start of this administration. Citing the country’s strong
macroeconomic fundamentals, Beltran remarked that the DOF has
built strong foundations enabling growth and reforms to further
pick up in the near future.
“Inflation slowed to 3.7% in November. Interest rates net of
inflation remain one of the lowest in Asia despite QE tapering
in the United States. The exchange rate is stable on account of
strong BOP inflows and the fiscal position is at its strongest
(almost in balance at -0.3% of GDP as of end-October) with the
NG revenue effort up by 1/2 percentage point (as of October) and
the public sector debt ratio at its lowest in 30 years (66.3%
for Consolidated Public Sector, 52% for non-financial public
sector and 38.1% for consolidated general public sector),”
Beltran reported to all DOF employees in attendance at the
review.
“We are still keeping a 6% average quarterly growth rate for the
entire Aquino administration, and there is headroom to sustain
an even higher growth rate in the next two years. The growth
rate is also private sector-led, investment-led and broad-based,
ensuring growth is sustainable,” Beltran added.
Beltran welcomed the positive response the Philippines received
with four credit upgrades, most recently by Moody’s on 11
December 2014 and S&P on 8 May 2014 to a notch above investment
grade, the highest rating ever given by both ratings agencies to
the country. The Philippines also received upgrades from
Japanese R&I and NICE Investors Service of Korea. The World
Economic Forum has also recognized the Philippines as the most
improved country since 2010 with a 7-slot gain in its 2014
international competitiveness rankings.
“Our ever improving economic trajectory is a turnaround story
for the books. History will remember the Philippines as having
proven that good governance is indeed good economics. Our
reforms have resulted in concrete gains that resonate with the
Filipino people: increased fiscal space have enabled us to
double our education and triple our health budgets. We stand
ready to achieve even more in the next years as the Philippines
is already in a virtuous cycle,‘ Finance Secretary Cesar V.
Purisima said.
The Philippines also received Finance Asia’s Region’s Best
Borrower Award for its innovative execution of an accelerated
1-day switch tender offer last January 2014, its first
transaction as an investment grade sovereign.
The country was likewise cited by the Economist Intelligence
Unit for a financial inclusion policy framework that is among
the best three in the world, the best in Asia, and as an
acknowledged leader in microinsurance regulation. The GIZ also
cited the Philippines as the Asian emerging country with the
highest microinsurance outreach as the country recorded 27
million persons covered. The Philippine model is now being used
by GIZ in its technical assistance program for neighboring Asian
countries.
The DOF also received acclaim for its excellent hosting of the
World Economic Forum on East Asia which showcased the country’s
emergence as an economic tiger. On the home front, Beltran noted
that the DOF also earned accreditation from the Civil Service
Commission (CSC) for its appointments which no longer need to
undergo CSC approval before they take effect. With this
accreditation, the CSC expressed its trust on the personnel
screening capabilities of the DOF.
Beltran called on DOF employees to look forward by saying, “With
these improvements and citations, the challenge is there for us
to outperform ourselves. In 2015, we will work harder to push
the revenue effort further up by at least 1/2 percentage point
of GDP, reduce the NG debt ratio by at least a percentage point
and further expand fiscal space for infrastructure and social
services. We will also host the APEC finance ministers’ meeting
to showcase our development experience, focusing on more
inclusive growth.”
“Seeing the fruits of our labor appear in a virtuous cycle only
makes one thing clear: we will roll our sleeves up and hunker
down to institutionalize reforms in the tail-end of this
administration. Next year, we hope to pass a comprehensive and
equitable tax reform package that improves tax administration
and revises the tax structure to drive growth and equity for all
Filipinos. As we approach the finish line, we will power through
with our priorities to modernize the Bureau of Customs, and
rationalize fiscal incentives, among other legislative
initiatives,” Beltran added. |
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| DPWH bares 2014
performance in Western Mindanao |
| Source:
http://www.dpwh.gov.ph |
|
The new road opening for the Zamboanga City By-Pass Road, now 62
percent complete, is among the 2014 significant accomplishments
of the Department of Public Works and Highways in Western
Mindanao.
Linking east with the west coast through Barangay Patalon to
Barangay Culianan, the road project will decongest traffic
within the Zamboanga City proper providing the neighboring
cities of Dipolog, Pagadian and other municipalities a direct
trade route to the Zamboanga Free Port Zone.
The road project received initial funding of P310 Million and
subsequently allotted with a total amount of P750 Million for
phases 2 and 3.
In a report submitted to DPWH Secretary Rogelio L. Singson, DPWH
Region 9 implemented this year 1,860 current and carry-over
projects valued at P 16.771 Billion of which 1,412 projects were
completed.
According to DPWH Region IX Director Jorge Sebastian, major part
of the total budget was allotted for the construction and
improvement of roads, highways and bridges amounting to P1.3
Billion of which 607 projects were completed. Sebastian said
that 168 flood control and drainage projects worth P115.463
Million were also completed.
Funding amount of P965.712 Million for elementary and secondary
school buildings, and P280.629 Million for hospitals and health
centers resulted to the completion of 674 and 47 projects,
respectively.
Following the massive destruction wrought by the 23-day armed
conflict in 2013 at Zamboanga City, DPWH was at the forefront of
building back better with 19 on-going projects and
accomplishment of 32.47% in the implementation of Zamboanga City
Roadmap to Recovery and Reconstruction (Z3R).
Under the Transition Investment Support Program (ISP) for
Autonomous Region for Muslim Mindanao, all 10 projects were
completed amounting to P1.216 Billion.
DPWH Region IX manages a total of 1,620.387 kms of national
roads with 972.25 kms concrete, 398.282 kms. asphalt, 262.821
kms gravel and 7.007 kms earth. The total road length includes
newly converted Zamboanga del Sur Coastal Road with length of
125.883 kms. Also, the total length of gravel road increased by
more than 44 kms due to additional road length of Zamboanga West
Coast Road to include 19.181 kms Siocon-Sirawai-Sibuco-Limpapa
Road with a length of 19.181 kms and 25.493 kms. Imelda-Bayog-Kumalarang-Lapuyan-Margosatubig
Road.
The total 300 existing bridges with a length of 12,576.90 lineal
meters consist of 231 concrete bridges, 68 steel bridges and 1
temporary bridge. |
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| Canada reforms
caregiver program; promises faster action on applications for
permanent residence |
| Source:
http://www.dole.gov.ph |
|
| Canada reforms caregiver program; promises faster action on
applications for permanent residence Labor and Employment
Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz yesterday said the
Philippine Overseas Labor Office in Toronto has reported that
the government of Canada had implemented reforms in its
caregiver program, a feature of its immigration system as a
component of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program. “Labor
Attache Leonida Romulo had reported that Minister Chris
Alexander of the Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) had
announced sweeping reforms in Canada’s Live-in Caregiver Program
(LCP). Filipinos who wish to work in Canada as caregivers must
study the reforms to ensure they make correct decisions about
their plans,” said Baldoz. The LCP, now the Caregiver Program,
enables Canadian employers to recruit foreign nationals to live
and work in their homes to provide childcare or home support for
senior citizens or Canadians with disabilities when there are no
Canadians or permanent residents to fill available positions.
After two years of work, caregivers have the option to apply for
permanent residence. The CIC said on its website that the
removal of the live-in requirement will result to greater
opportunities for Canadians in caregiver occupations and an
increase in wages for foreign caregivers after employers clearly
demonstrate that there are no Canadians available for the job.
It also said the Government of Canada plans to admit 30,000
caregivers (including their spouses and dependants) in 2015 by
fast-tracking applications from those who have completed their
work experience but are facing long waits for their permanent
residence to be finalized. Under the reforms, caregivers are no
longer required to live in the home of their employer, which can
place them in vulnerable conditions, including unpaid overtime
work, poor working conditions, or worse, until they are able to
achieve the status of permanent residents. The reforms provide
for two career pathways for caregivers: (1) the Caring for
Children Pathway and (2) Caring for People with High Medical
Needs Pathway. For the first pathway, applicant caregivers must
have a two-year work experience in Canada as a home child care
provider; “initial intermediate” Canadian language benchmark 5
provided in a designated third-party language test; and a
Canadian post-secondary education of at least one year, or an
equivalent foreign education credential. The limit or cap to the
number of applicants to be accepted under this pathway is 2,750
per year. The second pathway, Caring for People with High
Medical Needs Pathway, is for caregivers who provide support to
those with high medical needs. The requirements are as follows:
(1) two-year full-time work experience in Canada providing
in-home care or care in a health facility to the elderly or
persons with disabilities or chronic diseases; (2) licensed to
practice in Canada; and (3) “intermediate” Canadian language
benchmark 7 provided in a designated third-party language test,
if applying as a registered nurse or registered psychiatric
nurse. The limit or cap to the number of applicants to be
accepted under this pathway is 2,750 per year. On this matter,
Secretary Baldoz advised those who would like to work in Canada
as caregivers to visit the CIC website for more detailed
information, and urged them to only deal with legitimate and
licensed Philippine recruitment agencies to avoid getting duped
or victimized by illegal recruitment agencies and individuals
with criminal intent. “Still, the safe and legal pathway to work
overseas is through the Philippine Overseas Employment
Administration,” she said. |
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| Yolanda heroes among 2014 outstanding
public servants |
| Source:
http://web.csc.gov.ph |
|
Fire officers Oscar Ma. S. Guarda, Jr. and Luisito C. Tizon of
Tanauan Fire Station in Leyte put others’ safety above their own
when they rescued eight children from the strong winds and flash
flood brought by super typhoon Yolanda.
The Marinduque Animal and Wildlife Rescue Emergency Response
Team was the first animal welfare group to set foot in the
impact zone in Leyte after the typhoon. Through operation “Sagip
Hayop”, affected animals, including livestock, were rescued and
preserved as source of income and food. It also saved the
government millions of pesos in terms of possible animal disease
outbreak.
Aircraft mechanic Elton Monet B. Merelos’ expertise in the
repair and maintenance of UH-1H aircrafts has helped the
Philippine Air Force (PAF) maximize its 21-unit fleet at a much
lower cost, as well as provide the much-needed air support for
rescue and relief operations.
These ‘heroes’ that emerged in the wake of super typhoon Yolanda
are some of the people who make up the roster of this year’s
Outstanding Public Officials and Employees. They were awarded in
Malacañan Palace on December 15 as part of the government’s
Honor Awards Program (HAP). The awards rites was led by
Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. on behalf of President
Benigno S. Aquino III.
The HAP, administered by the Civil Service Commission (CSC),
aims to recognize and reward state workers for outstanding work
performance and consistent ethical behavior. Its goal is to
motivate and inspire state workers to improve the quality of
their performance and instill deeper involvement in public
service.
CSC Chairman Francisco T. Duque III said while the rotten eggs
in government are the ones getting the most attention from the
public, there are many silent workers who go beyond the call of
duty without expecting recognition or higher pay. “These people
do not make it to the headlines but their deeds are nothing less
than heroic. At the CSC, we call them lingkod bayani – mga
lingkod bayang bayani.”
“Through the stories of HAP awardees, we hope to inculcate the
values of heroism – selflessness, bravery, excellence, and
integrity – not only among state workers but also to the rest of
our fellow Filipinos,” Duque added.
Types of awards
Three awards were given. The Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award is
conferred on an individual or group for exceptional
contributions resulting from an idea or performance that had
nationwide impact on public interest.
Recipients of the Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award are:
• Brigadier General Rolando M. Aquino (Wing Commander,
Philippine Air Force [PAF])
• Kim S. Jacinto-Henares (Commissioner, Bureau of Internal
Revenue)
• Elton Monet B. Merelos (Aircraft Mechanic II, PAF)
• Alfredo E. Pascual (President, University of the Philippines
[UP])
• Mudjekeewis D. Santos (Supervising Aquaculturist/Scientist I,
Natural Fisheries Research and Development Institute)
• Romeo G. Seguban (Professor II, Isabela State University)
• Edgardo E. Tulin (University Professor, Visayas State
University)
• ITDI-DOST Research and Development Team (Industrial Technology
Development Institute)
They were given PHP200,000, a gold gilded medallion, plaque with
citation signed by the President, scholarship grant, and other
incentives. In addition, individual Lingkod Bayan awardees are
entitled to automatic promotion to the next higher position or
equivalent salary increase.
The Dangal ng Bayan Award is given to an individual for
performance of extraordinary act or public service and
consistent demonstration of exemplary ethical behavior on the
basis of observance of the norms of conduct provided under
Republic Act No. 6713, or the Code of Conduct and Ethical
Standards for Public Officials and Employees.
The Dangal ng Bayan award was conferred to:
• Saldon A. Arajil (Police Officer III, Philippine National
Police)
• Roldan V. Colas (Heavy Equipment Operator I, Department of
Public Works and Highways)
• Alfred Mel P. Dagaylo-an (Veterinarian I, Municipal Government
of Polanco, Zamboanga del Norte)
• Oscar Ma. S. Guarda, Jr. (Fire Officer III, Tanauan Fire
Station, Leyte)
• Jubaira A. Isnain (Chief of Hospital, Parang District
Hospital, Sulu)
• Melecio J. Maghanoy (University Research Associate II, UP Los
Baños, Laguna)
• Euthemia G. Plariza (Midwife II, Municipal Government of
Dalaguete, Cebu)
• Alicia B. Rebuelta (Agricultural Technologist, Municipal
Government of Kalibo, Aklan)
• Rhia B. Sotomil (Senior Police Officer III, Pavia Municipal
Police Station, Iloilo)
• Luisito C. Tizon (Senior Fire Officer I, Tanauan Fire Station,
Leyte)
They were given PHP200,000, a trophy designed by National Artist
for Sculpture Napoleon Abueva, scholarship grant, and other
incentives. They are also entitled to automatic promotion to the
next higher position or equivalent salary increase.
The CSC Pagasa Award is granted to an individual or group for
outstanding contributions that directly benefited more than one
department of government on a certain degree of standards.
The CSC Pagasa awardees are:
• Maricel M. Bechayda (Local Government Operations Officer VI,
Department of the Interior and Local Government)
• Lourdes A. Floria (Principal I, Zaragoza Elementary School, La
Union)
• Ariel R. Larona (Museum Technician I, UP Los Baños)
• Rodolfo B. Modelo (Elementary School Principal IV,
Commonwealth Elementary School, Quezon City)
• Gilbert D. Peremne (Superintendent, Bureau of Jail Management
and Penology Regional Office VI)
• Romela N. Ratilla (Senior Science Research Specialist,
Department of Science and Technology Regional Office X)
• Concepcion T. Tababa (Master Teacher II, Tubungan Central
Elementary School, Iloilo)
• City Agriculturist’s Office (City Government of Tabuk, Kalinga)
• Davao City Central Communications and Emergency Response
Center or CENTRAL 911 (City Government of Davao)
• Marinduque Animal and Wildlife Rescue Emergency Response Team
(Provincial Government of Marinduque)
• Special Audit Team-ORG ARMM (Commission on Audit)
They received PHP100,000, a gold gilded medallion, a plaque with
citation signed by the CSC chairman, scholarship grant, and
other incentives.
Judges
The awardees were chosen by respected personalities from the
public and private sectors. The 2014 Committee on the Lingkod
Bayan/Pagasa Awards was composed of CSC Chairman Francisco T.
Duque III, Chief of Presidential Protocol Ambassador Celia Anna
M. Feria, Manila Hotel President and former Senator Jose D. Lina
Jr., RGMA Network Inc. President Miguel “Mike” C. Enriquez, and
Dynamic Teen Company Founder/CEO and 2009 CNN Hero of the Year
Efren G. Peñaflorida Jr.
This year’s Committee on the Dangal ng Bayan Award is composed
of CSC Commissioner Robert S. Martinez, Tanodbayan Conchita
Carpio-Morales, Commission on Audit Chairperson Ma. Gracia M.
Pulido-Tan, Chief of Presidential Protocol Ambassador Celia Anna
M. Feria, and Deputy Executive Secretary for General
Administration Teofilo S. Pilando Jr. |
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| Extended holiday truce with communist
rebels gives way to a hopeful year ahead -- Deles |
| Source:
http://www.opapp.gov.ph |
|
| MANILA – Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita
Quintos Deles welcomed the joint suspension of military and
police operations (SOMO-SOPO) announced by the Armed Forces of
the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP)
noting “more reasons for an extended Christmas ceasefire” this
year with the Communist Party of the Philippines/National
Peoples' Army/National Democratic Front (CPP/NPA/NDF). “The
SOMO-SOPO covering the period 19 December (from midnight of
18th) 2014 to 19 January 2015 is in line with government’s
Christmas tradition, as we have always wished to provide for our
people's peaceful and joyful celebration of this holy season and
a hope-filled welcome to a new year.” Citing more reasons, the
peace adviser also underscored that the “cessation of
hostilities will allow unhampered rehabilitation of
calamity-affected communities, many of which are also
conflict-affected, and sustain the goodwill generated from the
positive results of the collective disaster preparedness
undertaken by government and communities.” The unilateral
ceasefire also puts in mind the much-anticipated Papal Visit in
the Philippines early next year. “With the silencing of guns,
our preparations for and celebration of Pope Francis' visit may
be carried out with undistracted reflection and prayers and deep
hope for abundant blessings to be showered on our people,” said
Deles. The AFP and PNP, on the other hand, assured that the
security forces will continue to perform their functions in
ensuring the safety and welfare of the people for the duration
of the SOMO-SOPO, covering the country's Christmas and New
Year's celebration. “After the difficult trials of the past
Christmas seasons, we pray for a peaceful, happy and hopeful
season for everyone—a chance for all families and communities to
come together in celebration and steadfast hope,” wished Deles.
- See more at:
http://www.opapp.gov.ph/cpp-npa-ndf/news/extended-holiday-truce-communist-rebels-gives-way-hopeful-year-ahead-deles#sthash.47p1iokF.dpuf |
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| Statement of Secretary Balisacan at
the 2014 Year-end Press Briefing |
| Source:
http://www.neda.gov.ph |
|
To our friends from the media, colleagues in government, ladies
and gentlemen, good afternoon.
On behalf of NEDA, I would like to thank you all for taking time
to join us today as we conclude another year of milestones and
challenges. Considering our constant battle with climate-related
disasters, along with the uncertainties in the global economy,
we can say that the Philippine government has remained resolute
in its stance to strengthen the foundations for sustained and
inclusive growth through wide-ranging reforms in governance and
the economy. We are aware that the road to inclusive growth is
filled with obstacles and we need to continue our journey, even
with extreme weather, so we can move closer to our destination.
Let me now discuss in brief our country’s economic and
development story for 2014.
Economic Growth
For the first three quarters of this year, the economy grew at
an average of 5.8 percent. While this falls below our target of
at least 6.5 percent, the Philippine economy remains among the
brightest spots in the region.
Economic growth has been predominantly private sector-led, as it
should be, indicating increased economic activity in sectors
where there are opportunities for better employment. On the
other hand, government spending for the year was restrained and
thus held back growth. Nonetheless, there is reason to believe
that the recent growth slowdown is merely transitory and part of
the adjustment process associated with the recent reforms in
public financial management.
There are bright prospects to look forward to as the year ends.
Our macroeconomic fundamentals remain strong. The latest
business expectations outlook from the Bangko Sentral ng
Pilipinas shows a more buoyant fourth quarter, with more firms
optimistic about the country’s economic prospects. Export
performance in 2014 has been notable, especially for high-value
products, and this bodes well for the economy as a whole. The
growing household consumption indicates greater consumer
confidence, which could boost growth. For eight quarters now,
since the second half of 2012, growth of the industry sector has
outpaced that of the services sector. This is consistent with
our strategy to promote the resurgence of industry and the
manufacturing subsector, in particular. The services sector
continues to be robust, especially the IT-BPM. We also saw the
tourism subsectors recovering from the temporary setback brought
about by the natural calamities that hit our country late last
year. The target of 6.8 million international tourist arrivals
for 2014 will likely be met.
Investments
The Business Expectations Survey of the BSP also shows continued
business confidence. This has translated into higher investments
and investment commitments. Net foreign direct investments
(which account for the actual flow of foreign investments) for
the first nine months of the year grew by 61.3 percent.
Meanwhile, total approved investments for the first semester of
2014 grew by 11 percent. For the full year, the target is 8
percent.
Employment and Poverty
With respect to employment generation, the latest round of the
Labor Force Survey shows the unemployment rate at a 10-year
record low of 6.0 percent. The employment figures also suggest
that establishment-based jobs involving mostly full-time work
were generated. However, underemployment remains a major
challenge, as more than seven million employed Filipinos still
desire to work additional hours, an indication of inadequate
incomes.
In terms of poverty reduction, we are confident that, with our
strategy of promoting rapid growth while implementing targeted
programs to equalize opportunities, we will achieve the targets
we have laid down in the PDP Midterm Update. Data from the
Philippine Statistical Authority show that poverty went down to
24.9 percent in the first semester of 2013, from 27.9 percent in
the same period in 2012. During the same period, the subsistence
incidence, or the proportion of extremely poor Filipino families
or individuals who could not afford to meet their basic food
requirements, decreased to 7.7 percent among Filipino families
and 10.7 percent among Filipinos.
This year, the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program or 4Ps was
expanded to cover 15- to 18- year-old children who are in
school. As of September 30, 2014, the 4Ps cover a total of 4.3
million households from 1 million in 2010. Of this figure, 4.2
million are covered by the regular 4Ps while the Modified
Conditional Cash Transfer or MCCT covers about 153 thousand
households. The MCCT beneficiaries are homeless and street
families and IP households in the geographically isolated and
disadvantaged areas who are not covered by the regular CCT.
Economic Outlook for 2015
Moving into 2015, we know that we need to work even harder to
sustain economic growth over the short term. Our wider fiscal
space due to the country’s continuous rise in competitiveness
ranking and investment grade ratings should allow us to
accelerate implementation of infrastructure projects,
particularly those that will address transport and logistical
challenges to facilitate movement of people and goods. Building
on our transport roadmap for Metro Manila and nearby regions, we
are now working on more comprehensive master plans to develop
the other regions in the country.
We will also take advantage of the opportunities presented by
the country’s hosting of APEC and the implementation of the
ASEAN Economic Community by the end of 2015.
The 2015 budget is consistent with the sectoral and spatial
strategies indicated in the PDP Midterm Update. The priority
sectors have been identified based on their potential for rapid
growth and/or massive generation of quality employment. These
are agri-business, manufacturing, construction, IT-BPM in the
Next Wave Cities, logistics and tourism. The objective is to
improve competitiveness in the production sectors while ensuring
that there is ample supply of the needed skills. The spatial
strategies, on the other hand, are intended to deliberately
address the constraints being faced by the poor in these areas.
In Category 1 provinces which have the highest number of poor
families, priority will be given to streamlining government
procedures concerning business to encourage more investments and
enhancing skills training and employment facilitation to address
the job-skills mismatch. In Category 2 provinces where there is
a high proportion of poor individuals relative to the
population, the focus will be on promoting economic mobility
including physical connectivity, human capital development and
linking producers to the supply chain. Peace efforts will
continue to be pursued as well. In Category 3 provinces which
are exposed to natural hazards, the goal is to build up
resilience through income diversification, income protection
including insurance, and most importantly, disaster
preparedness.
The reconstruction and rehabilitation of Yolanda-affected areas,
as contained in the Comprehensive Rehabilitation and Recovery
Plan or CRRP is expected to spur investment and provide
livelihood and employment opportunities. The CRRP outlines the
National Government’s plans for the recovery of the 171 affected
cities and municipalities in 14 provinces and six regions
(collectively known as the ‘Yolanda corridor’). Under the CRRP,
resettlement projects account for the biggest slice of the
proposed budget at P75.67 billion. The Department of Budget and
Management has already released P51.98 billion from the national
budget for the rehabilitation plan in the Yolanda corridor since
November 2013.
Needless to say, the government continues to be vigilant on the
possible risks that the country might face. The threat of
natural calamities such as drought, earthquakes and typhoons
have been a recurring challenge for both the government and the
citizenry. But as proven by our experience in the recent Typhoon
Hagupit, we have certainly improved in our disaster response and
adaptation systems through better preparedness and faster
response mechanisms. These disaster risk reduction and
management interventions will be pursued and continuously
improved upon to mitigate the loss of output, destruction of
property and infrastructure, and human lives.
The government will also continue its governance reform program
and ensure that the gains will be sustained even beyond the term
of President Aquino. We are always reminded of the catalytic
role that government is supposed to play in promoting inclusive
growth. For this, we will continue to implement measures to
enhance revenue generation, regulatory efficiency, improve the
links between planning, investment programming and budgeting,
and build capabilities on planning, investment programming,
budgeting and budget execution.
As I’ve mentioned many times before, the Philippine economy
should consistently grow at a rapid pace over a longer period of
time in order to effectively solve the poverty problem.
Moreover, we need to be mindful that there are no quick fixes
for long-standing problems; they require long-lasting solutions.
The challenges we face are complex and thus require a high
degree of cooperation and coordination within government and
among development partners, private sector and citizens.
Along this line, I call on everyone to give their support and
work with the government in sustaining and strengthening the
reforms that have been started and that have already started to
produce tangible results. As we sprint towards 2016, let us not
allow ourselves to be sidetracked.
On this note, we wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a bountiful
2015! Thank you. |
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| ‘Good Governance’ makes the Philippines
eligible for significant funding from US |
| Source:
http://www.dfa.gov.ph |
|
16 December 2014 - Because of its strong efforts at policy
reforms, including its successful campaign against corruption,
the Philippines has found itself eligible for significant
funding from the United States to help reduce poverty in the
country.
The eligibility of the Philippines for a new five-year grant or
compact was announced by the Millennium Challenge Corporation
(MCC), an independent American aid agency created by the US
Congress in 2004.
The MCC’s announcement of Manila’s eligibility for a second
compact came four years after it awarded the Philippines with
$434-million to fund three major poverty reduction projects in
the country.
“The selection of the Philippines for a subsequent compact
recognizes the significant progress achieved under the current
compact and its strong efforts at policy reform, including
successful efforts to root out corruption,” the MCC said in a
statement issued on Thursday.
Ambassador Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. immediately welcomed the positive
development, saying it brings the Philippines one step closer to
a second compact that will allow the country to avail itself of
US funding to support its poverty alleviation programs.
“The selection of the Philippines for a second compact is a
recognition of President Aquino’s commitment to good
governance,” Ambassador Cuisia said. “I believe a smooth
transition to a second compact will help the Philippines in
further institutionalizing good governance policies and
reforms.”
Ambassador Cuisia said he was informed by MCC Vice President for
Operations Kamran Khan of the approval by the MCC Board of the
recommendation to start discussions for a second compact for the
Philippines. He then reported the good news to Foreign Affairs
Secretary Albert del Rosario and Finance Secretary Cesar
Purisima.
“The government has been a strong partner in compact
implementation. Selecting the Philippines now allows for a
seamless transition from one compact to the next,” the MCC said,
adding that the Philippines is currently on track to complete
its first compact by May 2016.
Approved in 2010, the first compact provided the Philippines
with $214.4 million for the construction and repair of 220
kilometers of Samar roads to improve access to markets and
services for farmers, fishermen and small businessmen; $120
million for a development project that empowers communities by
encouraging their participation in poverty reducing activities;
and $54.3 million for the computerization and streamlining of
business processes of the Bureau of Internal Revenue to bolster
tax collection and reduce corruption.
Ambassador Cuisia said Manila’s eligibility for a second compact
was greatly enhanced after the recent release of the latest MCC
scorecard where the country passed 13 out of 20 indicators,
including Immunization Rates, Land Rights Access, Rule of Law,
and the “must-pass” indicator Control of Corruption.
Rule of Law and Control of Corruption are based on the World
Governance Indicators (WGI) where the Philippines recently
improved its ranking. Several individual indicators such as the
Global Integrity Index, the Transparency International Global
Corruption Barometer Survey, the World Justice Project and
Freedom House are used to construct the WGI indicators.
“I note the big improvement in the Control of Corruption and
Rule of Law indicators in WGI. I am gratified that these have
resulted in the Philippines’ positive MCC scorecard in Fiscay
Year 2015,” Ambassador Cuisia said.
“I echo our economic managers’ sentiments that this indeed will
heighten the confidence level in the Philippines and complement
the gains in the economic front,” he added.
Aside from the Philippines, the MCC selected Mongolia as
eligible for a new compact and approved efforts to continue
developing compacts with Benin, Lesotho, Liberia, Morocco, Niger
and Tanzania. The MCC also voted to make Nepal eligible for a
compact; selected Cote d’Ivoire and Sierra Leone to develop
Threshold Programs; and approved a $28-million Threshold Program
for Guatemala. |
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| Philippines assured of US
assistance if major disaster strikes |
| Source:
http://www.dfa.gov.ph |
|
16 December 2014 - Even if it did not have to call for
international assistance in the wake of Typhoon Ruby/Hagupit
last week, the Philippines is assured of the assistance of the
United States if another major disaster strikes the country,
Philippine Ambassador to Washington said.
“Had Typhoon Hagupit wrought serious damage, I am sure that the
US would have dispatched assistance the same way it did during
Typhoon Haiyan,” Philippine Ambassador to Washington Jose L.
Cuisia Jr. told the World Affairs Council of Missouri at a forum
at the Sheraton Clayton Plaza here on Wednesday evening.
“Our alliance and partnership could not have been more evident
than during the tragedy that was Typhoon Haiyan,” Ambassador
Cuisia said as he described the overwhelming and timely
assistance by the US military in last year’s search, rescue and
relief operations in the affected areas in the Central
Philippines.
The Filipino envoy also cited the more than $86 million that
Washington committed as well as the $60 million pledged by US
businesses and NGOs to support relief efforts in the country.
“As you know, Typhoon Hagupit hit the Philippines over the
weekend but due to better efforts on the part of the government
to pursue mandatory evacuation early on, casualties were very
minimal,” Ambassador Cuisia told his audience of prominent
business leaders, policy makers, diplomats and academicians.
Although Hagupit left at least 18 people dead and more than P3
billion in damage, Ambassador Cuisia said the Philippine
Government was able to handle the post-disaster response so well
that it did not ask the US to deploy the C-130 transport
aircraft that Washington had placed on standby.
“Nonetheless, the benefits derived from the immediate support of
the US on humanitarian assistance and disaster response during
Typhoon Haiyan clearly highlighted what we can do when we work
together,” Ambassador Cuisia said.
According to the former Central Bank governor, the Enhanced
Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) that was signed in April is
one way the US is helping the Philippines maintain and develop
its maritime security and domain awareness and humanitarian
assistance and disaster relief capabilities.
Ambassador Cuisia also touched on other aspects of the bilateral
relations between the Philippines and the US and Washington’s
relations with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations
(ASEAN). He also discussed the situation in the West Philippine
Sea, including the recent massive reclamation being undertaken
by China in several disputed reefs in the Spratlys.
In his remarks, Ambassador Cuisia said the Philippines
recognizes China’s peaceful rise as a world power but Beijing’s
recent actions in the South China Sea raises serious doubts
whether it could honor its international obligations and respect
the rule of law.
“We acknowledge China’s role in world affairs and support its
peaceful rise. To be truly viewed as a positive force and a
responsible power, China must manifest its adherence to and
respect for the rule of law,” Ambassador Cuisia said. “A world
power following the rule of law is now an obligation, not a
choice.”
Ambassador Cuisia’s statements came in the wake of reports that
China has been conducting massive reclamation activities that
have resulted in the destruction of the marine environment in
Johnson Reef, McKennan and Hughes Reef, Cuarteron Reef and Gaven
Reef that are part of the Kalayaan Island Group.
Ambassador Cuisia said the Philippines openly and fully
acknowledges the emergence of China as an economic power and
that its ascendance has greatly benefited not only the
Asia-Pacific but also the world.
“All of us hope that China's unprecedented growth would further
expand world trade, investment and tourism,” he said, adding
that the Philippines and the rest of the world also appreciate
China’s positive role in expanding science and technology,
undertaking functional cooperation, deepening cultural
connections and enhancing people-to-people understanding.
However, Ambassador Cuisia pointed out that “it is only in
advocating and practicing the rule of law that we can ensure
that our dynamic and thriving community continue to exist for
everyone’s benefit.”
“The challenge before us is to encourage the major players, in
this case, China, to adhere to the rule of law,” he said. “What
is needed is a shared and serious commitment by all stakeholders
to exert political will that transcends national propaganda and
the dynamics of international affairs.”
Ambassador Cuisia said the Philippines continues to believe that
the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea provides a
viable mechanism to resolve conflicts, particularly through the
process of arbitration that Manila initiated.
“We see arbitration as an open, friendly, and durable solution
to the dispute. We believe it benefits everyone,” the former
Philippine Central Bank governor said.
“For China, arbitration will define and clarify its maritime
entitlements. For the Philippines, arbitration will clarify what
is ours, specifically our fishing rights, rights to resources
and rights to enforce laws within our Exclusive Economic Zone,”
he added.
“For the rest of the international community, the clarification
of maritime entitlements will assure peace, security, stability
and freedom of navigation in the South China Sea.” |
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| Palawan ventures into Cacao farming |
| Source:
http://www.dar.gov.ph |
|
The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) recently signed the
Cacao Production and Purchase Agreement with Kennemer Foods
International, Inc (KFI) involving 54 hectares of idle lands in
Apurawan, Aborlan, Palawan to help agrarian reform
beneficiaries’ (ARBs) need for sustainable farming and
high-income enterprises.
Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer (PARPO) II Conrado S.
Guevarra said the cacao production project is a partnership
between the DAR, KFI, Department of Agriculture and Land Bank
under the Agricultural Production Credit Program.
Guevarra said the Land Bank of the Philippines released an
initial capital of PHP 406,000 to 33 ARBs venturing into cacao
farming for the first time.
Earlier, similar undertakings had been forged between KFI and a
number of agrarian reform beneficiaries organization (ARBOs)
involving 200 hectares of agricultural land in selected agrarian
reform communities (ARC) in Zamboanga del Norte and more than
250-hectare agricultural land in Davao City.
Guevarra added that one hectare of cacao farm is expected to
yield 2000 kg of dried cacao beans per year. With cacao’s
average selling price of 40/kg in the international market, an
income of 96,000 per hectare per year for cacao farmers.
Guevarra added that DAR-KFI also conducted trainings on cacao
production and maintenance to help the ARBs and field
implementers to understand the requirements of land preparation
and cacao production management through the proper application
of KFI’s technologies.
“We are so thankful to the Department of Agrarian Reform and
Land Bank of the Philippines for providing us financial
assistance to pursue our dream to become a cacao capital in the
province, and even in the whole country,” Jaime Favila, Sr.,
chair of Sto. Niño Multipurpose Cooperative, said. |
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| ANNOUNCEMENT: PRC Tuguegarao |
| Source:
http://www.prc.gov.ph |
|
| PRC Tuguegarao announces that in observance of the celebration
of its 15th Charter day Anniversary of the City of Tuguegarao on
Thursday, 18 December 2014 is declared as a Special
(NON-WORKING) day (per Proclamation No. 928 dated 11 December
2014), hence, office transactions/operations are temporarily
suspended on the said date. |
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| PRC-ILOILO holds
Orientation-Seminar on “MOVE” |
| Source:
http://www.prc.gov.ph |
|
PRC-ILOILO conducted an Orientation-Seminar on MOVE or “Men
Opposed to Violence Against Women and Their Children Everywhere”
yesterday, Tuesday, 16 December 2014, as part of its Gender and
Development (GAD) activities.
The objectives of the Orientation-Seminar were for PRC-Iloilo
personnel to: (1) acquire awareness on the nature and
organization of MOVE; (2) increase knowledge on the protection
of women and their children against violence; (3) become
acquainted with the significance of the involvement of men in
reducing the incidence of violence against women and their
children (VAWC); (4) strengthen the resolve to join in the
advocacy for the protection from VAWC; and (5) develop interest
in organizing MOVE within the PRC organization.
The Resource Speakers included Mr. Daryl V. Alfuente, MOVE
Coordinator for the Province of Iloilo, and Project Development
Officer and Provincial Coordinator, Sustainable Livelihood
Program , Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD);
and Mr. Richard Sevilla, Secretary of MOVE, DSWD Regional Office
6, who is the Regional Information technology Officer of said
office.
Another GAD seminar is scheduled today, Wednesday, 17 December
2014, entitled “Responding to Incidence of VAWC” to be conducted
by Hon. Anne Beatrice A. Balmaceda, Presiding Judge, Branch 1,
MTCC of the Hall of Justice, Iloilo City. (larb/prc-iloilo) |
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| Tatak TESDA video-making contest now
open to graduates, schools |
| Source:
http://www.tesda.gov.ph |
|
How has technical-vocational education transformed one's life?
The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)
is inviting graduates to document their tech-voc experience in a
short video and share it with the agency for a chance to win
cash prizes and scholarship vouchers.
"Tell us how TESDA has made a significant impact on your life.
We want to listen. Inspire us and inspire others about the
tech-voc ways," TESDA Director General Joel Villanueva said.
The Tatak TESDA Video Making Contest Year 2 is open to
individuals and schools engaged in technical vocational
education and training (TVET).
The TVET graduate should be a finisher of any course from 2010
onwards, a holder of a National Certificate or Certificate of
Competency, and working either in the country or abroad.
For the school category, the technical vocational institution
should be accredited by TESDA, of good standing, and holder of
Certificate of TVET Program Registration.
The entry sender for either the individual or school category
must produce a two to three minute video, taken at the
workplace, and then uploaded in Facebook or Youtube. The link
should be submitted along with the official entry through the
email to the TESDA Provincial Office and copy furnished the
Office of the Director General through tataktesda@gmail.com.
The videos may be in the form of dramatization, storytelling,
music video and other creative format. The videos should answer
the question: How did TESDA transform your life? The closing
statement of the video should be: Ako si ______, sa TESDA,
sumaya ang buhay ko. Buhay n'yo, sasaya rin sa TESDA."
The official entry form may be downloaded from the TESDA website
(www.tesda.gov.ph).
The contest will have three levels: provincial/district,
regional and national. Only the top two entries (one for each
category) for each province/district as determined by the
respective provincial/district screening committees will be
considered for the regional level of the competition. In the
same manner, only the top two entries (one for each Category)
for each region as determined by the respective regional
screening committees will be considered for the national
competition.
Entries for the provincial/district level may be submitted from
January 2 to 31, 2015.
There will be winners for best in story, best in video, people's
choice award and the grand Tatak TESDA award. |
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| Harvesting Lessons in Environmental
Governance from the City of Gentle People |
| Source:
Career Executive Service Board |
|
Harnessing the Power of Private-Public Partnerships
The Environmental Quality Management Officer of the
award-winning Dumaguete City Septage Management Program (DCSMP)
briefs IGABAY learners. The DCSMP, a partnership between the
Dumaguete City Government and the Dumaguete City Water District,
shines as the nation’s first successful public-private
partnership simultaneously addressing the needs for adequate,
affordable and accessible quality water resources; sustainable
business viability, and; long-term health and environmental
security.
“My exposure in this activity enabled me to engage my ideas with
those of others, in the process sharpening my knowledge using a
multi-dimensional focus in resolving a problem. Indeed, it was a
greatly enriching experience.”
This was the experience shared by one of the 43 learners from 18
different government agencies who completed the twentieth (20th)
session of the Integrated Gabay ng Paglilingkod (IGABAY)
Training Course of the Executive Leadership Program (ELP) from
2-10 October 2014 at the Manhattan Suites and Hotel in Dumaguete
City, Province of Negros Oriental.
As one of the CESB’s foundational capacity-building courses, the
IGABAY Course features an array of strategically important
topics essential to any public manager’s leadership toolkit.
These modular topics not only sharpen their skills and deepen
their accountabilities in efficiently managing day-to--day
agency operations. They also clarify and highlight the value of
scope of leadership roles in defining the future directions of
public sector organizations and the parameters for their
effectiveness and relevance to the nation. Hence, the IGABAY
Course capacitates public managers with the competence, the
confidence and the commitment as frontline leaders in leading
the nation against current and emerging challenges and the
expectations for excellent governance.
The IGABAY Course Session XX culminated in the
Community-Organizational Attachment Module (COAM). The COAM
provided multi-dimensional platforms for the learners to study,
learn from, and also to strengthen, promote and sustain
exemplary governance models and practices aimed at
institutionalizing reforms and achieving sustained development
through culture change, systems and process innovations. The
COAM organizational/ community laboratory model chosen was the
Dumaguete City Septage Management Program (DCSMP) which was
awarded as a 2012 Outstanding Program under Gawad Galing Pook
Awards. The COAM learners were divided into three groups to
validate and assess the innovation’s “road map” – its relevance,
viability, results and impact on the various sectors and
institutions of the city and its environment. They generated a
consolidated assessment report highlighting the innovation’s: 1)
Results and Impact, 2) Engineering Efficiency and Health/
Environmental Impact, and its 3) Financial and Business
Operations.
The successful COAM learning experience resulted from the
partnership forged between the City Government of Dumaguete and
CESB. The city’s warm hospitality in hosting CESB and its IGABAY
Course was only matched by the enthusiasm, generosity and
honesty of the city’s elected and appointed officials in sharing
vital information, participating as resources persons and
reactors, and in providing various technical, coordinative and
logistical support measures and other forms of assistance to
facilitate the field evaluation research processes. City
Administrator and former Vice-Mayor Mr. William E. Ablong led
city officials in welcoming the COAM learners and engaging them
in various learning interaction sessions.
The partnership was made even more memorable with a
dinner-fellowship program organized and hosted by the Department
of Education-Division of Dumaguete City headed by Schools
Division Superintendent Dr. Ramir B. Uytico, CESO IV. No less
than Dumaguete City Mayor Manuel E. Sagarbarria, Cong. George P.
Arnaiz (2nd District) and Cong. Pryde Henry A. Teves (3rd
District) of the Province of Negros Oriental graced the
occasion.
I-GABAY is a nine-day residential training program taken after
the Salamin-Diwa ng Paglilingkod Training Course (SALDIWA), both
under the Executive Leadership Program (ELP) and prescribed as
official requirements for Career Executive Service eligibles to
qualify for appointment to a CESO rank. For 2015, the CESB will
conduct IGABAY Course Session Nos: XXI (16-24 April); XXII
(23-31 July); and XXIII (15-23 October). Interested applicants
must completely fill-up ELP Application Forms downloaded from
the CESB website and fax/ e-mail/ mail them to CESB.
Sharing and Learning from Success Stories
Dumaguete City Administrator William E. Ablong led city
officials in sharing the challenges, issues and stories of
triumph behind the DCSMP to a group of IGABAY learners in one of
the various learning interaction sessions.
Savoring the Hospitality of Dumaguete
IGABAY learners pose with City Mayor Sagarbarria, Cong. Teves,
Cong. Arnaiz and CESB Exec. Dir. Ma. Anthonette V. Allones after
the dinner-fellowship program hosted by the Division of
Dumaguete City-Department of Education. |
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