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DHSUD hits ground running on Pasig River rehab
The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development has hit the ground running after being tapped as head of the Inter-Agency Council for the Pasig River Urban Development by virtue of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Executive Order 35. DHSUD Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar, along with key DHSUD officials, has started inspecting key areas along the Pasig River and laid out plans on how to implement the President’s order. Initially, Acuzar checked on the portions of the historical river in Manila, particularly at the back of the Central Post Office, which is being eyed as pilot area for mixed-use development and tourism spot, and Parola Compound for the affected informal settler families. “We already have plans, and we will soon present it to the Office of the President and before the council for approval,” Acuzar said. The DHSUD chief has already met with MMDA Chairman Romando Artes, vice chair of the IAC-PRUD, to discuss the council’s initial steps to put the order’s provisions into actionable strategies for the member-agencies. Under EO35, the secretaries of DPWH, DENR, DILG, DOT, DoTr, DOF, DBM; the chairperson of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines, general manager of the Philippine Ports Authority, commandant of the Philippine Coast Guard, the general manager of the Laguna Lake Development Authority and the chief executive officer of the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority were named as council members. The National Housing Authority will serve as the secretariat. The IAC-PRUD was tasked primarily to “facilitate and ensure the full rehabilitation of the banks along the Pasig River water system and nearby water systems in order to provide alternative transportation, propel economic opportunities, and boost tourism activities.” The council was directed to formulate a Pasig River Urban Development Plan which shall serve as the blueprint for the full rehabilitation of the river to realize its full potential for mixed-use development, transportation, recreation, tourism and sustainable human settlement, taking into consideration its historic and cultural value. It was also ordered to “study, prepare and implement a comprehensive shelter plan for massive relocation of informal settler families and other unauthorized or unlawful occupants along the Pasig River banks, including identification of suitable relocation sites; strategies for economic and social integration for ISFs, and long-term solutions to address ongoing migration into the Pasig River banks." The EO also authorizes the IAC-PRUD to “accept grants, contributions, donations, endowments, bequests or gifts in cash or in kind from local and foreign sources in support of the formulation and implementation of the Pasig River Urban Development Plan, subject to existing laws, rules and regulations. To monitor the progress of the rehabilitation, EO35 tasked the IAC-PRUD to submit to the Office of the President, through the Office of the Executive Secretary, a quarterly status report. The post DHSUD hits ground running on Pasig River rehab appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Pasig River rehab, priority advocacy of FL
The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar on Sunday said the rehabilitation of Pasig River, by virtue of Executive Order (EO) 35, has the backing of First Lady Louise “Liza” Araneta-Marcos. In its August 2023 issue which features the First Lady, Tatler Asia magazine cited the Pasig River rehabilitation as among her three priority-advocacies, the other two being education and improved access to quality health care. Tatler Asia stated that the First Lady envisions Pasig River to become a lifestyle and commercial hub, and a major tourist attraction when fully rehabilitated. “As for the river initiative, she (First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos) hopes that revitalizing the Pasig will make it an attraction in its own right, in the same way, that the Thames or Seine or Bangkok’s Chao Phraya are: arteries of commerce, lifestyle, tourism and culture, drawing visitors from home and overseas,” Tatler Asia wrote. Acuzar welcomed the support of the First Couple as a huge boost to the efforts of IAC-PRUD for the massive rehabilitation of the Pasig River, which also covers the relocation of thousands of informal settler families. Amelita "Ming" Ramos is perhaps the most well-known former first lady, who made the rehabilitation of the Pasig River synonymous with her name with the alliterative "Piso Para Pasig" campaign during the Ramos administration. Under EO 35, which created the Inter-Agency Council for the Pasig River Urban Development (IAC-PRUD) was created with the DHSUD as lead, the MMDA will serve as vice chair and the secretaries of DPWH, DENR, DILG, DOT, DoTr, DOF, DBM; the chairpersons of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines and the NCCA, the general manager of the PPA, commandant of the Philippine Coast Guard, the general manager of the Laguna Lake Development Authority and the chief executive officer of the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority were tapped as members. The National Housing Authority will serve as the secretariat. The IAC-PRUD was primarily tasked to “facilitate and ensure the full rehabilitation of the banks along the Pasig River water system and nearby water systems in order to provide alternative transportation, propel economic opportunities, and boost tourism activities.” The post Pasig River rehab, priority advocacy of FL appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DILG welcomes newly-minted BJMP chief
The Department of the Interior and Local Government on Wednesday has welcomed the appointment of Jail Director Ruel Rivera as the full-fledged chief of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology by no less than President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. DILG Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. said that the DILG stands ready to render the necessary guidance and support to Rivera as he takes on the mantle of BJMP as its full-fledged chief, saying “we are with him every step of the way.” “Now that he is the full-fledged BJMP chief, and with his experience as a career jail officer, we are confident that he will be able to fully exercise his authority in propelling the jail bureau to becoming a world-class agency and a premiere safekeeping institution for persons deprived of liberty,” Abalos said. In his new role as BJMP chief, Rivera is expected to continue working on the BJMP’s J.A.I.L. 2040 or the Journey for Advancement, Innovation, and Long-term Development Plan 2040 committed to the BJMP’s mandate of providing secure, reformation-oriented, and well-managed jail facilities across the country; the DILG’s “Buhay Ingatan, Droga’y Ayawan” or BIDA Program; and the Marcos administration’s Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028. He will work closely with BJMP personnel, stakeholders and partners to uphold the BJMP’s commitment to professionalism, integrity and service excellence. Rivera will be leading the BJMP’s 20,813 personnel in taking care of 126,606 persons deprived of liberty confined in 479 jails. An accomplished jail officer, Rivera obtained his public safety degree from the Philippine National Police Academy and is a member of the Philippine National Police Academy Patnubay Class of 1995. He pursued a Master’s in Public Administration at Batangas State University and acquired Doctorate units in Philosophy on Educational Management at the University of Rizal System. Throughout his career, the new BJMP chief has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, strategic thinking and a deep understanding of the complexities and challenges faced by the Jail Bureau. He played a vital role in implementing innovative programs and initiatives aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of the BJMP’s operations and the rehabilitation of PDL. The post DILG welcomes newly-minted BJMP chief appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Compensating Marawi siege victims
The program to compensate victims of the Marawi siege will sink or swim on funding. Politico-sociocultural and human factors, including administrative hurdles, aside, the key to its success hinges on the sincerity of the government in providing the needed funds. Of course, the integrity of the distribution through the mechanism laid down by the Marawi Compensation Board or MCB also counts. It will take a lot of lobbying and follow-up to shepherd the program. And for this purpose, the civil society groups that had been galvanizing attention to the acute needs of the evacuees will have to reboot their campaign (Are they represented in the MCB? The Compensation Law speaks of their possible membership). MCB needs their “noise” to prevent the program from being relegated to the backburner with serious calamities happening elsewhere that also need funding. It takes a lot of networking and constant reminders to national policymakers about the need for funds. Remember, nothing is specific about how much the government has earmarked to implement the Compensation Law. Everything remains hazy and iffy. What we have learned is that in the 2023 Government Appropriation Act, about P1 billion has been set aside to initialize the program. That was not even specifically appropriated for the Marawi victims but lumped into the appropriation for assistance to disaster-stricken areas. That amount is a ridiculous crumb that is not even enough for the administrative needs of MCB. How can we augment or supplement any annual government appropriation for the Marawi victims? The Bangsamoro Autonomous Government comes to mind. The BARMM Organic Law provides a budget for this contingency. Thus, under Article XIV, Section 2 of RA 11054, the “Special Development Fund — The National Government shall provide a special development fund to the Bangsamoro Government for the rebuilding, rehabilitation, and development of its conflict-affected communities. The amount equivalent to Fifty billion pesos at Five billion pesos per year, for a period of 10 years from the ratification of this Organic Law, shall be allocated for this purpose. The utilization of the fund shall be in accordance with the Bangsamoro Development Plan to be adopted by the Bangsamoro Government.” That’s it. The provision describes to a tee the aid for the rehabilitation of “conflict-affected” Marawi. What we are trying to drive home is that, even if the national government becomes remiss in funding the program, our fallback will be tapping the resources of BARMM. The regional government has so many funds that it can spend legally on the rehabilitation program. We are told that BARMM has already started implementing its assistance to the war victims. Truckloads of building materials were unloaded at the center of the most affected area, Banggolo, for everyone to see. Choosing construction materials instead of cash, as a form of assistance, is a sound idea. Unfortunately, we were told that many victims were not given a heads-up and failed to avail of it. There was a deficit of communication. Victims demand transparency in the distribution to protect the integrity of the process. Apropos of this, there are pedestrian suggestions that come to mind. A strict monitoring of the use of these materials should be conducted by BARMM to ensure that they will not fall into the hands of pseudo-claimants. The local government units, especially the barangay chiefs who know the residents, should be given a role. Care should also be exercised to prevent the materials from being brought to places outside of the most affected priority areas. Personal, social, and consanguineal biases should never play a role in processing claims. The “palakasan” system will defeat the purpose. These are the evils that should be avoided lest they bring to naught the noble purpose of the law. Responsibility should also be defined clearly by identifying the agency and the officials tasked with distributing the largesse. Transparency by publishing the process of distribution, the criteria, and whatever documents are needed to substantiate the claim for assistance must be observed. BARMM should formulate its own Implementing Rules and Regulations to shut off any doubt about the integrity of the distribution. It is a relief that BARMM has initiated the process. Bravo! We hope it will accelerate the distribution in the meantime that the MCB is getting its act together for the huge task ahead. amb_mac_lanto@yahoo.com The post Compensating Marawi siege victims appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DA, partner gov’t agencies brace agri-fisheries sector before El Niño starts
The Department of Agriculture (DA) on Tuesday said it is taking the necessary actions to prepare the agriculture and fisheries sector ahead of the looming El Niño phenomenon this year. “We in the DA are doing our best in trying to allocate the resources like seeds, fertilizers, and other commodities that are necessary for the impact of the El Niño phenomenon to the farming communities in the country,” Senior Undersecretary Domingo Panganiban said. He added that last June 1, 2023, the DA’s National El Niño Team (DA-NENT) convened partner agencies from the Food Security Group under the National El Niño Team of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NENT-NDRRMC) for its 1st Inter-agency Meeting to discuss the actions taken and plans of the member-agencies. Panganiban said DA Field Operations Service Director and DA-NENT Chairperson U-Nichols Manalo presented the DA El Niño Mitigation and Adaptation Plan for crops, fisheries, and livestock sub-sectors. The plan is based on the four thematic areas of the DRRM framework - prevention and mitigation, preparedness, response, and rehabilitation and recovery. The strategies identified include dissemination of information, education, and communication materials, proper water management, prepositioning of resources, crop diversification, adjustment of planting calendar, buffer stocking of inputs, and promotion of short cycle and drought tolerant crops, among others. “DA is already preparing for the worst scenario for El Niño this year. Nevertheless, we will be of course expecting PAGASA to provide us with regular updates on this. Sana po ay hindi naman magtuloy, but we should always prepare for the worst case scenario,” DA Assistant Secretary for Operations Arnel De Mesa on the other hand said. He also noted that not all areas in the country will be affected, thus the government initiatives could focus more on areas that will be severely hit. De Mesa also urged the representatives from partner government agencies to facilitate easy access and sharing of information with the DA to guide planning and decision-making activities. “With all of us working together, we shall be able to achieve more,” Panganiban, for his part, said. The members of the DA-led Food Security Group are the Departments of Trade and Industry (DTI), Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Energy (DOE), Labor and Employment (DOLE), Budget and Management (DBM), Interior and Local Government (DILG), and the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA). The Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD), and Department of Finance-Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (DOF-PCIC) are also part of the group. The post DA, partner gov’t agencies brace agri-fisheries sector before El Niño starts appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DENR nagbigay ng 1.56-B dagdag pondo para sa Manila Bay Rehabilitation
Ni Pat Fulo NAGBIGAY ng karagdagang pondo ang Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) bilang bahagi ng pagpapatuloy ng Manila Bay Rehabilitation Project. Aabot sa 1.56 bilyong piso ang itinaas ng pondo sa DENR ngayong taon para sa development, updating at implementasyon ng operational plan ng Manila Bay Coastal Management Strategy. Alinsunod na […] The post DENR nagbigay ng 1.56-B dagdag pondo para sa Manila Bay Rehabilitation appeared first on PINAS......»»
The crucial role of watershed management
Watersheds provide a range of ecosystem services and support plants, animals, and humans. Despite its crucial significance, watersheds face multiple threats, such as rapidly increasing population, disruption of hydrologic conditions, and biodiversity loss. Because of its importance, the sustainability and stability of the watersheds are at serious risk in the absence of appropriate interventions. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources through the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau, with co-sponsorship from the Asia Pacific Association of Forestry Research Institutions held a Congress on Sustainable and Climate Resilient Watershed Management through ecosystem-based approaches in the Asia-Pacific Region in Muntinlupa City. This was the reason why the DENR-ERDB organized the congress to cover the dearth of information on how to sustain and develop climate-resilient watersheds. The event featured more than 50 oral and poster presentations on innovative solutions that merge sustainable practices with climate resilience based on the experiences of delegates from different countries like the Philippines, Bangladesh, Fiji, Nepal, Indonesia, India, Vietnam, Germany, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. In her message, ERDB Director Maria Lourdes G. Ferrer emphasized the need to address critical issues on watersheds, forge partnerships, and work collectively to attain a more sustainable and resilient future. She called the participants to engage in fruitful collaborations to exchange valuable information. To help achieve its objectives, the congress has four themes: Climate resilience and sustainable watershed management; Rehabilitation and restoration of degraded watersheds; Nature-based approach in watershed management; and Policies, legislations, and institutional arrangements. The three-day event revolved around watershed management. Six plenary speakers who are experts on various topics on watershed management shared informative talks and experiences in the field. Dr. Rex Victor Cruz of the University of the Philippines talked about climate resilience and sustainable watershed management while Dr. Shanker Kumar Sinnakaudan of the Universiti Teknologi MARA Pulao Pinang shared the rehabilitation and restoration of degraded watershed in the context of Malaysia. A plenary talk was also given by the former ERDB Assistant Director and former Director of the River Basin Control, Dr. Antonio M. Dano which focused on the policies, legislations, and institutional arrangements that are critical to watershed management. Two talks centered on experiences and best practices in terms of watershed management in the Philippines. Forester Percival Cardona of the DENR-Forest Management Bureau shared insights on the Enhanced National Greening Program, one of the initiatives that is substantial in sustaining watershed management in the Philippines. DENR Region 10 Executive Director Henry Adornado discussed the strategies and best practices for sustainable watershed management for the Cagayan de Oro River Basin. The congress ended with a tour of the Upper Marikina watershed in Rizal province. The post The crucial role of watershed management appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DILG, UN to stage Phl Mayors Forum
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), in collaboration with the United Nations Resident Coordinator's Office and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Philippines, will hold the Philippine Mayors Forum on Friday, 27 October. The event was aimed at highlighting the vital role that local government units (LGUs) play in the attainment of the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA) 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It will be attended by President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. and DILG Secretary Benhur Abalos, mayors from cities and municipalities nationwide, as well as national government officials, UN representatives, and international experts. Secretary Abalos said the forum is designed to empower LGUs as allies of the government while also emphasizing their critical contribution to the implementation of SDGs towards achieving the Ambisyon Natin 2040. “The country remains committed to achieving the 2030 Agenda and its SDGs. We recognize that our local leaders play a critical role in achieving the SDGs toward inclusive and sustainable development,” he said. The forum is dubbed the “Philippine Mayors Forum: Innovation, Digital Governance, and Resiliency Building towards Accelerated Implementation of the 2030 Agenda in the Philippines”. Abalos further said that the localization of the SDGs is vital as it is at the core of the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028. The PDP is based on the Marcos administration's eight-point socio-economic agenda, serving as the country’s overall economic blueprint in development planning for the next six years. The activity will be conducted through a hybrid format, onsite at Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria, Quezon City, and online, through Zoom teleconferencing platform and streamed live on Facebook. The post DILG, UN to stage Phl Mayors Forum appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
P6-B illegal drugs destruction saves thousands from ‘hell’ — Abalos
Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benhur Abalos said Sunday that the destruction by the government of P6-B worth of dangerous narcotics over the weekend had saved thousands of young people from the road to perdition. This was after a total of 247 kilograms of methamphetamine hydrochloride, or shabu, seized at the Manila International Container Port on 6 October 2023 were destroyed at a government facility in Trece Martires, Cavite through thermolysis last Friday, 20 October. Also burned were 206 kilograms of dimethyl sulfone, a shabu extender, recovered by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in Mabalacat, Pampanga on 25 August this year. “Malaking bagay ang ginawa natin ngayong araw na pagsunog sa mga iligal na droga na ito. Dahil dito ay libo-libong mga kababayan natin, lalo na ang mga kabataan, ang nailigtas natin mula sa pagkagumon sa bawal na gamot na tiyak na maghahatid sa kanila sa kapahamakan at sa impiyerno,” Abalos said, stressing that illegal drugs is a menace to the nation especially to the youth. He commended the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), the Philippine National Police, and the different drug enforcement units for their perseverance and hard work in the government’s anti-illegal drugs campaign. “Saludo ako sa sipag at pagsisikap ng PDEA, PNP, NBI, at iba pang awtoridad sa mga hakbang nito kontra iligal na droga sa ating mga komunidad. Isa na naman itong malaking tagumpay para sa pamahalaan at para sa kampanyang Buhay Ingatan, Droga’y Ayawan,” Abalos said. “Higit sa lahat, isa itong malaking tagumpay para sa magandang kinabukasan ng ating kabataan,” he added. Abalos also stressed that with thermolysis, the dangerous substances were completely broken down and were impossible to reconstitute. “Nakasisiguro tayo na hindi na ito babalik pa sa merkado at hindi na makapangbibiktima ng mga kabataan,” he said. He, likewise, urged the government’s drug enforcement units to relentlessly go after big syndicates to significantly reduce the supply of illegal drugs in the country. “Habang puspusan ang inyong anti-drug operations at pagtugis sa mga drug syndicates, ang ibang sektor naman ng lipunan ay magtutulong-tulong sa demand reduction aspect para tuluyan nang mailayo ang mga kabataan sa masamang bisyo,” he said. “This is the beauty of the whole-of-nation approach being espoused by our BIDA campaign. Hindi lang ang PDEA, PNP, NBI at AFP ang kikilos, lahat tayo ay may mahalagang papel at bida laban sa droga,” he said. For his part, PDEA Director General Moro Virgilio M. Lazo emphasized this renewed drug approach. “The PDEA’s strategy, in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s anti-drug campaign thrust, is geared towards community rehabilitation, going after drug syndicates and getting rid of unscrupulous officials.” The post P6-B illegal drugs destruction saves thousands from ‘hell’ — Abalos appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Wildlife rescue center set to become a world-class facility
Department of Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Antonia Loyzaga over the weekend said they are planning to transform the National Wildlife Rescue and Research Center (NWRRC) into a world-class facility, boosting its capability to protect and rehabilitate the country’s wildlife resources. The move, she added, is in line with the DENR’s thrust to enhance biodiversity conservation. “We will enhance, upgrade and redesign the NWRRC, so it can be brought up to global standards,” Loyzaga said. She added that the DENR will form an advisory group of biodiversity experts for the enhancement of NWRRC as part of an overall program to boost the country’s capacity to conserve and protect wildlife species and their habitats and to fight illegal wildlife trade and other wildlife crimes. Other plans include mobilizing over 200 Wildlife Traffic Monitoring Units in 36 airports and 131 seaports and training over 700 Wildlife Enforcement Officers. “This is very important because the Philippines is one of the mega biodiverse countries in the world. We are a hotspot, and therefore, we must make very good use of our protection and enhancement capabilities in order to stop illegal wildlife trade and all other wildlife crimes,” Loyzaga explained. According to the Biodiversity Management Bureau, the Philippines is considered an illegal wildlife trade hub and a source country of wildlife and wildlife byproducts such as pangolins and marine turtles. In 2020, the NWRRC received new ultrasound and X-ray machines that will help the center’s veterinarians and staff diagnose diseases, injuries, and conditions of wildlife and exotic animals in their care. The equipment was donated by the United States Agency for International Development, under its Project Wildlife project in the Philippines. Located within the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center, the NWRRC is under the management and administration of the DENR’s BMB. The center has been instrumental in retrieving, rescuing, and providing shelter to abandoned wildlife and exotic animals; as well as those illegally trafficked and traded. Its mandate includes the care and rehabilitation of rescued wildlife species that often arrive stressed, traumatized, sick, or injured. The post Wildlife rescue center set to become a world-class facility appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DILG backing Comelec’s no-proc plan
Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos on Friday backed a plan of the Commission on Elections to suspend the proclamation of Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections, or BSKE, candidates who will win in the upcoming elections due to campaign violations. Abalos made the statement in response to reports that candidates were knowingly engaging in illegal campaigning, vote-buying, using oversized campaign posters outside of designated common poster areas, using online fund transfers, and offering various forms of assistance to voters. “The Comelec has previously warned that even if a candidate wins by a large margin, he may not be declared the winner until the complaint lodged against him has been adjudicated,” Abalos said. The post DILG backing Comelec’s no-proc plan appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
NIA, DENR to promote advanced water security in Phl
The National Irrigation Administration and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources agreed to strengthen the water rights of NIA and further promote water security in the Philippines, Malacañang said on Thursday. In a statement released by the Palace, Environment Undersecretary Carlos Primo David underscored that the government will ensure water security through various government agencies. "(This) is a convergence between several government agencies with water-related functions … we are able to plan and coordinate our efforts together and I'm referring to the DENR, which I represent, the National Water Resources Board, and everyone here in Malacañang," David said. This means that NIA's irrigation water will not only be used for the agricultural sector but will also be utilized for power production, bulk water supply, aquaculture, recreation, tourism, and other purposes. DENR has been given the directive to protect the country's water resources to meet its needs, as mandated by the law. In connection with this, the Office of the Executive Secretary has encouraged the NIA, the National Water Resources Board, and the Water Resources Management Office to be more responsive to the country's needs in the use and development of water resources. The DENR, through the National Water Resources Board and the Water Resources Management Office, will have the responsibility of safeguarding and preserving water resources to meet the evolving requirements as outlined in the existing laws governing water management and utilization. In a similar vein, Senior Deputy Executive Secretary Hubert Guevarra encouraged the NIA, NWRB, and the WRMO to be more adaptable to the changing needs of the nation in how they use and develop water resources, aligning their actions with the fundamental principles of the water code and the President's objective of achieving water security. This memorandum of agreement aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s Executive Order No. 22, which established the WRMO under the DENR, tasked with coordinating and harmonizing all government initiatives and regulatory activities to ensure the sustainable management and availability of water resources throughout the entire country. Also in attendance at the event were Assistant Secretary Jason Alba from the Office of the Senior Deputy Executive Secretary, Department of Finance Undersecretary Catherine Fong, and NIA Acting Civil Works Design Section Chief Engr. Roald Marck Revellame. The post NIA, DENR to promote advanced water security in Phl appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Super Health Center in Tanauan, Leyte breaks ground
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, is hopeful that more Filipinos, particularly those in far-flung areas, will be able to access basic health services through the establishment of more Super Health Centers nationwide. In a video message during the groundbreaking of a Super Health Center in Tanauan, Leyte on Thursday, 28 September, Go, who is an adopted son of the province, commended the Department of Health and the local government for the successful groundbreaking of the town's Super Health Center in Barangay Malaguicay. Super Health Centers are designed to focus on primary care, medical consultation, and early detection of diseases, further strengthening the healthcare sector in the country, especially in rural communities. He also stressed his commitment to bringing healthcare closer to the people, alleviating the burden of traveling long distances to receive basic health services. The groundbreaking was led by Leyte Governor Jericho "Icot" Petilla and Tanauan Mayor Gina Merilo, among others. “Ipagpatuloy natin na ilapit ang serbisyong medikal sa ating mga kababayang mahihirap na walang matakbuhan kung hindi ang mga gobyerno. Para sa mga mahihirap nating kababayan, napakaimportante po nito dahil iyan po ang kanilang lalapitan po talaga, itong mga government health facilities natin. The more we should support it, the more na mag-invest po tayo sa ating healthcare system,” Go said. “Ilapit po natin ang serbisyong nararapat para sa kanila. Huwag po natin silang pahirapan. Marami po sa mga kababayan natin sa iba’t ibang sulok ng Pilipinas na wala silang sariling health center. Kaya importante na mailapit natin ang serbisyong medikal mula gobyerno sa mga taong nangangailangan nito,” he stressed. Super Health Centers offer basic health services, including database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray, ultrasound), pharmacy, and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services in Super Health Centers are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service; oncology centers; physical therapy and rehabilitation centers; and telemedicine. Meanwhile, he also mentioned that there will be Super Health Centers to be established in Hilongos and Baybay City. Through the collaborative efforts of fellow lawmakers, sufficient funds were allocated for 307 Super Health Centers in 2022 and 322 in 2023. The Department of Health (DOH), the lead implementing agency, is tasked with identifying strategic areas for construction. The senator likewise encouraged those with health concerns to seek the assistance of any of the 159 Malasakit Centers nationwide, five of which are established in the province. The Malasakit Center brings all relevant agencies under one roof, such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), DOH, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, to ensure poor and indigent patients can conveniently access medical assistance programs to cover their hospital-related expenses. Malasakit Centers have been opened at the New Western Leyte Provincial Hospital in Baybay City, Eastern Visayas Regional Medical Center (EVRMC) in Tacloban City, Ormoc District Hospital in Ormoc City, and Leyte Provincial Hospital and Governor Benjamin T. Romualdez General Hospital and Schistosomiasis Center (GBTRGHSC) in Palo. The program was institutionalized under Republic Act No. 11463, or the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, which Go principally authored and sponsored. Since the first Malasakit Center was established in 2018, more than seven million Filipinos have benefitted, according to DOH. Go also highlighted Republic Act 11959, also known as the Regional Specialty Centers Act, which he principally sponsored and is one of the authors in the Senate. The Regional Specialty Centers Act plays a pivotal role in the healthcare legislative agenda of the Marcos administration, as detailed in the Philippine Development Plan 2023 to 2028. The said law mandates the establishment of Regional Specialty Centers within existing DOH regional hospitals. As part of his commitment to improving healthcare services in the province, Go sponsored the passage of RA 11567. This legislation increased the bed capacity of EVRMC. Additionally, Go also pushed for the passage of RA 11566, which transformed the Schistosomiasis Control and Research Hospital into the GBTRGHSC. Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, likewise supported the construction of multipurpose buildings in Alangalang, Babatngon, Carigara, Dagami, Isabel, Jaro, La Paz, Leyte, and Tolosa; construction of the Merida Community Hospital; construction of flood control structures in Alangalang, Javier, Tanauan and Tolosa; and acquisition of dump trucks for the local governments of Isabel and Villaba, among others. The post Super Health Center in Tanauan, Leyte breaks ground appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DENR suspends Socorro deal
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources on Friday said it ordered the suspension of its Protected Area Community-Based Resource Management Agreement with the Socorro Bayanihan Services, Incorporated. DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga suspended the deal pending further investigation into SBSI’s gross violation of the terms and conditions of the agreement. Based on DENR records, the SBSI originated in the “Tinabangay” group of Socorro, Surigao del Norte, which was organized in 1974 by the late Don Albino Taruc. The group was incorporated and registered as a people’s organization with the Securities and Exchange Commission on 20 December 1980. SBSI applied for and was subsequently awarded a PACBRMA by virtue of the National Integrated Protected Areas System, or NIPAS, Act of 1992, as implemented by DENR Administrative Order 2004-32, issued on 31 August 2004. The agreement, signed on 15 June 2004, covers 353 hectares of land in the northeast part of Barangay Sering, overlooking the northeast portion of Bucas Grande Island. A PACBRMA is a legal instrument between the DENR and tenured migrant groups to develop and conserve a portion of a Protected Area for 25 years. Under the deal's provisions, SBSI was granted certain rights and privileges over the awarded area within its established Multiple-Use Zone. Together with the DENR, SBSI developed its Community-Based Resource Management Plan, which was affirmed in 2013. The post DENR suspends Socorro deal appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DENR suspends Socorro Bayanihan’s protected area agreement
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources on Friday said it ordered the suspension of the Protected Area Community-Based Resource Management Agreement of the controversial organization Socorro Bayanihan Services Incorporated. DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga issued a Letter of Suspension to SBSI pending further investigation into its alleged gross violations of the terms and conditions of the PACBRMA. Based on DENR records, the SBSI originated from the “Tinabangay” group of Socorro, Surigao del Norte who were organized as early as 1974 by the late Don Albino Taruc. The group was incorporated and registered as a People’s Organization with the Securities and Exchange Commission on 20 December 1980. SBSI applied and was subsequently awarded a PACBRMA by virtue of the National Integrated Protected Areas System Act of 1992, implemented by DENR Administrative Order 2004-32, issued on 31 August 2004. The agreement, signed on 15 June 2004, covers 353 hectares of land located in the northeast part of Barangay Sering, overlooking the northeast portion of Bucas Grande Island. A PACBRMA is a legal instrument between the DENR and tenured migrant groups to develop and conserve a portion of a Protected Area for a 25-year period. Under the provisions of the PACBRMA, SBSI was granted certain rights and privileges over the awarded area within its established Multiple-Use Zone. Together with the DENR, SBSI developed its Community-Based Resource Management Plan, which was affirmed in 2013. In 2019, the DENR began its investigation of alleged SBSI activities that violated the PACBRMA, including restriction of entry into the area; establishment of checkpoints and military-like training; the resignation of teachers, uniformed personnel and barangay officials; and establishment of structures within the PACBRMA area. Inter-governmental efforts were also made to address the concerns raised against SBSI and to get them to comply with the terms of the PACBRMA. In 2019, SBSI submitted its updated CBRMP but was disapproved by the DENR due to non-compliance with certain provisions under the agreement. SBSI has not been able to resubmit its CBRMP. In 2021 and 2022, the DENR called the attention of SBSI on recurring violations. In both instances, there was no response from SBSI, triggered the issuance of a Letter of Suspension on Friday, 29 September 2023. Loyzaga said the DENR will work with the Department of Interior and Local Government, Department of Social Welfare and Development, the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development, the Provincial Government of Surigao del Norte and other authorities to ensure the smooth and peaceful enforcement of the suspension notice and the possible resettlement of the occupants. The post DENR suspends Socorro Bayanihan’s protected area agreement appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go urges DOH to bolster gov’t health services initiatives
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, the chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health, urged Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Teodoro "Ted" Herbosa during a Commission on Appointments (CA) hearing on Tuesday, 26 September, to bolster its initiatives towards providing better health services, especially in the grassroots and particularly for poor and indigent patients needing government support. Among those mentioned by Go are the continuing operations of Malasakit Centers in accordance with the law, the establishment of more Super Health Centers in strategic locations nationwide, and the proper implementation of the recently enacted Regional Specialty Centers Act. "Sa inyong palagay, nakakatulong ba ang Malasakit Centers sa mga mahihirap nating kababayan? At hindi ba napapabayaan ang mga pasyente?" Go said during the Commission on Appointments hearing on the ad interim appointment of Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa which Go presided on that day. As a response, Herbosa highlighted the significant number of patients served by the centers. "Ang pinakamarami dito sa NCR, almost 607,000 at more than 200,000 sa iba't ibang region. Almost every region is over 100,000 to 200,000 patients served," Herbosa answered. The senator also appealed to the DOH to ensure that poor and indigent patients are given the utmost attention in public hospitals. Go cited a recent department memorandum signed by Herbosa instructing medical center chiefs to ensure that all patients must be accorded with the available services in Malasakit Centers. "Ang mga social workers doon sa loob ng Malasakit Centers — at ako mismo pagpupunta ako doon — sinasabihan ko talaga ang mga social workers, ‘Isa lang ang pakiusap ko sa inyo, as chairman ng Committee on Health, huwag niyo pabayaan ang mga mahihirap na pasyente’," Go said. The Malasakit Centers consist of various agencies offering medical assistance programs including the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), DOH, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO). These centers were institutionalized under Republic Act No. 11463, principally authored and sponsored by Go. According to DOH, more than seven million indigent patients have already benefitted from the 159 Malasakit Centers established nationwide. Go also discussed the importance of Super Health Centers, which serve as primary care facilities offering a range of services including consultations, laboratory tests, and minor treatments. These health facilities in communities aim to provide early detection of diseases and also decongest hospitals by providing immediate medical care. "Kung nandiyan ang primary care, (magkakaroon ng) early detection… meaning… hindi lumala ang sakit at maagapan ito. It will also help decongest the hospitals," Go explained. Go also said free consultations handled by municipal health offices, LGUs, and PhilHealth through its Konsulta program can be facilitated in Super Health Centers. Services offered in Super Health Centers include database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray and ultrasound), pharmacy, and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service, oncology centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation centers, and telemedicine. Go was instrumental in pushing for adequate funding to ensure that more Super Health Centers are established across the country. Some 307 Super Health Centers were funded in 2022 through Go’s initiative and with the help of LGUs, DOH, and fellow lawmakers, and 322 more Super Health Centers in 2023. Herbosa supported this initiative, stating that Super Health Centers are partnerships between the national and local governments. Go then questioned Herbosa on whether there would be sufficient funding for the continuous operation of Malasakit Centers and Super Health Centers. "Can you assure us that there is and there will be sufficient funding for the continuous operation of Malasakit Centers?" Go asked. "We will assure the Commission na talagang tutulungan natin ang mga mahirap at nangangailangan using all the funds given by the Department of Health," Herbosa responded. Finally, Go also highlighted RA 11959, or the Regional Specialty Centers Act, a new law he principally sponsored and is one of the authors in the Senate, which mandates the establishment of specialized medical centers within existing DOH regional hospitals. Echoing President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos, Jr.'s priority of bringing specialized medical services closer to other parts of the country, Go reminded DOH that sufficient funding must be allocated for the proper implementation of the law. “Ipagpatuloy natin na ilapit ang serbisyong medikal mula gobyerno sa ating mga kababayang mahihirap na walang ibang matakbuhan. The more we should support their health needs, the more na mag-invest po tayo sa ating healthcare system,” Go said. "Huwag po natin silang pahirapan. Marami po sa mga kababayan natin sa iba’t ibang sulok ng Pilipinas na wala silang sariling health facility. Kaya importante na mailapit natin ang serbisyong medikal mula gobyerno sa mga taong nangangailangan nito," he concluded. The CA has suspended the confirmation of Herbosa as Health Secretary due to "lack of material time”, since Congress is set to go on break and will reconvene in November. The post Bong Go urges DOH to bolster gov’t health services initiatives appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go aids Alangalang displaced workers
In a coordinated effort with Mayor Lovely Yu, Senator Christopher "Bong" Go provided additional assistance to disadvantaged workers in Alangalang, Leyte on Sunday, 24 September. This initiative is part of his broader efforts to help expedite economic recovery in far-flung communities through the provision of more livelihood opportunities. During the relief operation at the Alangalang covered court, Go’s team provided masks, vitamins, shirts, and snacks to 457 affected workers. Select recipients also received shoes, watches, mobile phones, and balls for basketball and volleyball. Meanwhile, the beneficiaries also qualified for livelihood support from the Department of Labor and Employment’s program for disadvantaged and displaced workers. “Nais kong magpadala ng taos-pusong pasasalamat sa DOLE. Sila ay nagbibigay ng oportunidad at pag-asa sa mga manggagawang Pilipino na nawalan ng trabaho o kabuhayan dahil sa mga pagsubok na hinaharap natin. Sa pamamagitan ng programa nila, marami sa ating mga kababayan ang nabigyan ng pagkakataon na magkaroon ng pansamantalang trabaho at kumita ng maayos para sa kanilang pamilya,” Go stressed in a video message. In his commitment to promoting economic recovery, Go has underscored the significance of safeguarding the welfare of all sectors, with particular attention to those residing in rural areas. He introduced Senate Bill No. 420 which seeks to institutionalize a framework for offering temporary employment to eligible members of underprivileged households in rural regions. These individuals would be engaged in unskilled manual labor for a specified period. Under the proposed legislation, the Rural Employment Assistance Program (REAP) would be established within DOLE. REAP's primary goal is to furnish temporary job prospects to individuals who meet the criteria of being economically disadvantaged, impoverished, displaced, or seasonal workers. Milagros Salazar, the President of Liga ng mga Barangay of Alangalang, expressed her deepest gratitude to Go for his support and assistance. "Pinapaabot po namin ang pasasalamat kay Senator Bong Go sa lahat-lahat ng ibinigay sa amin dito sa LGU ng Alang-Alang. Ang mga services na binigay sa amin sa health, sa financial, at sa sports ay hindi matatawaran. Hindi matapos-tapos ang pag-aabot sa amin ng pasasalamat sa aming pinakamamahal na senador," said Salazar. The senator likewise encouraged those with health concerns to seek the assistance of any of the 159 Malasakit Centers nationwide, five of which are established in the province. The Malasakit Center brings all relevant agencies under one roof, such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Health (DOH), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, to ensure poor and indigent patients can conveniently access medical assistance programs to cover their hospital-related expenses. A Malasakit Center has been opened at the New Western Leyte Provincial Hospital in Baybay City, Eastern Visayas Regional Medical Center (EVRMC) in Tacloban City, Ormoc District Hospital in Ormoc City, and Leyte Provincial Hospital and Governor Benjamin T. Romualdez General Hospital and Schistosomiasis Center (GBTRGHSC) in Palo. In an effort to enhance healthcare services within the province, Go who is an adopted son of Leyte province, also sponsored and successfully pushed for the passage of Republic Act No. 11567, increasing the bed capacity of EVRMC. Furthermore, he was instrumental in the enactment of RA 11566, converting the Schistosomiasis Control and Research Hospital into the GBTRGHSC. Meanwhile, he also mentioned that there will be Super Health Centers to be established in Hilongos and Baybay City. Through the collective efforts of DOH, LGUs and fellow lawmakers, sufficient funds had been allocated for 307 Super Health Centers in 2022 and 322 in 2023. DOH, the lead implementing agency, identifies the strategic areas where they will be constructed. Super Health Centers offer basic health services, including database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray, ultrasound), pharmacy, and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services in Super Health Centers are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service; oncology centers; physical therapy and rehabilitation centers; and telemedicine. Go also highlighted RA 11959, also known as the Regional Specialty Centers Act, which he principally sponsored and is one of the authors in the Senate. The Regional Specialty Centers Act plays a pivotal role in the healthcare legislative agenda of the Marcos administration, as detailed in the Philippine Development Plan 2023 to 2028. The said law mandates the establishment of Regional Specialty Centers within existing DOH regional hospitals. “Huwag po kayong mawawalan ng pag-asa. Patuloy nating haharapin ang mga pagsubok na ito ng magkakasama. Kasama ninyo ang buong sambayanan na nagmamalasakit sa inyong kalagayan. Magtulungan tayo, at sa tulong ng Diyos, malalampasan natin ang mga pagsubok na ito,” he ended. Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, also supported the construction of multipurpose buildings in Alangalang, Babatngon, Carigara, Dagami, Isabel, Jaro, La Paz, Leyte, and Tolosa; construction of the Merida Community Hospital; construction of flood control structures in Alangalang, Javier, Tanauan and Tolosa; and acquisition of dump trucks for the local governments of Isabel and Villaba, among others. The post Bong Go aids Alangalang displaced workers appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Street kid sets impounded car on fire
TACLOBAN CITY — Frustrated after failing to get his coin that got stuck in a pile of sheets, a nine-year-old boy set ablaze an impounded car last 23 September. Initial reports from the Tacloban City Police Office disclosed that the minor intentionally caused the fire using a lighter and documents found inside the vehicle. The vehicle, a Chevrolet Captiva, has been under the custody of Highway Patrol Group 8 for a long period of time and was temporarily parked near at the HPG office located at Magsaysay Boulevard here. The highway patrol unit has been using the vehicle storage for their office documents and other light materials. The investigators reported no injuries and casualty and set the damage to property at P50,000. The news about the burning of vehicle came out on Monday after unblurred videos and photos of the boy being accosted and interviewed by police personnel came out in social media that clearly showed his face. The videos and photos caught the attention of netizens here, some of them narrating previous unpleasant experiences with the boy including forcibly snatching valuable items from them. One video shows the same boy smoking in a public place with people passing by. The boy is now under the custody of the Tacloban City Social Welfare and Development Office where he is placed in a residential facility in the city and an intervention plan is already in place for the rehabilitation and recovery of the minor. The post Street kid sets impounded car on fire appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go extends assistance to Merida displaced workers
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, in coordination with Mayor Lando Villasencio, provided additional assistance to 315 displaced workers who attended an occupational safety and health orientation conducted by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in Merida, Leyte on Friday, 22 September. The orientation, which was held at the municipal recreational gymnasium, was aimed to educate workers about the importance of workplace safety and health standards. The training was not only informative but also a significant step towards ensuring the welfare and security of local workers. During the said event, Go’s team handed out shirts, snacks, and balls for basketball and volleyball to the identified displaced workers. “Nais ko po na iparating sa inyo ang aking buong suporta at pagmamahal sa panahong ito ng inyong pangangailangan. Alam ko po ang hirap na dinaranas ninyo dahil sa pagkawala ng inyong trabaho, at nais kong malaman ninyo na kami ay nandito para sa inyo sa abot ng aking makakaya,” said Go, an adopted son of Leyte, in a video message. “Sa abot ng aking makakaya, patuloy kaming magsusumikap na magbigay ng tulong at oportunidad para sa inyong kinabukasan. Mahalaga na malaman ninyo na kami ay nagtutulungan kasama ang iba't ibang ahensya ng gobyerno upang hanapan ng mga paraan kung paano kami makakatulong sa inyo,” he continued. To ensure that those who reside in rural areas lacking job opportunities are taken care of, Go also filed Senate Bill No. 420, which seeks to offer temporary employment to eligible members of low-income rural households who are ready to perform unskilled physical labor for a period of time. The senator likewise encouraged those with health concerns to seek the assistance of any of the 159 Malasakit Centers nationwide, five of which are established in the province. The Malasakit Center brings all relevant agencies under one roof, such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Health (DOH), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, to ensure poor and indigent patients can conveniently access medical assistance programs to cover their hospital-related expenses. A Malasakit Center has been opened at the New Western Leyte Provincial Hospital in Baybay City, Eastern Visayas Regional Medical Center (EVRMC) in Tacloban City, Ormoc District Hospital in Ormoc City, and Leyte Provincial Hospital and Governor Benjamin T. Romualdez General Hospital and Schistosomiasis Center (GBTRGHSC) in Palo. In an effort to enhance healthcare services within the province, Go also sponsored and successfully pushed for the passage of Republic Act No. 11567, increasing the bed capacity of EVRMC. Furthermore, he was instrumental in the enactment of RA 11566, converting the Schistosomiasis Control and Research Hospital into the GBTRGHSC. Meanwhile, he also mentioned that there will be Super Health Centers to be established in Hilongos and Baybay City. Super Health Centers offer basic health services, including database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray, ultrasound), pharmacy, and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services in Super Health Centers are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service; oncology centers; physical therapy and rehabilitation centers; and telemedicine. Go also highlighted RA 11959, also known as the Regional Specialty Centers Act, which he principally sponsored and is one of the authors in the Senate. The Regional Specialty Centers Act plays a pivotal role in the healthcare legislative agenda of the Marcos administration, as detailed in the Philippine Development Plan 2023 to 2028. “Huwag po kayong mawawalan ng pag-asa. Patuloy nating haharapin ang mga pagsubok na ito ng magkakasama. Kasama ninyo ang buong sambayanan na nagmamalasakit sa inyong kalagayan. Magtulungan tayo, at sa tulong ng Diyos, malalampasan natin ito,” he ended. Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, likewise supported the construction of multipurpose buildings in Alangalang, Babatngon, Carigara, Dagami, Isabel, Jaro, La Paz, Leyte, and Tolosa; construction of the Merida Community Hospital; construction of flood control structures in Alangalang, Javier, Tanauan and Tolosa; and acquisition of dump trucks for the local governments of Isabel and Villaba, among others. The post Bong Go extends assistance to Merida displaced workers appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DILG’s BIDA Program rolled out in Zamboanga del Sur
Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benhur Abalos led the rollout of the "Buhay Ingatan, Droga’y Ayawan" (BIDA) Program in Zamboanga del Sur on Thursday morning. The BIDA Program launch was one of the highlights of the 71st Araw ng Zamboanga del Sur celebration at the Mega Gymnasium Provincial Government Complex, Dao, Pagadian City, which Abalos attended as a guest of honor and speaker. In his message before an estimated crowd of 1,500 Zambosurians, the DILG chief highlighted the critical role of local government units (LGUs) and other sectors of society in addressing the drug menace through education, prevention, and rehabilitation to complement the relentless anti-drug operations of law enforcement agencies. “Ang importante habang nanghuhuli ang mga pulis, tayong mga nasa LGU—mga barangay captain, konsehal, mayor, gobernador, bokal—community groups, religious leaders, parents, whole-of-nation approach dapat. Bumaba tayo, tulungan natin ang pulis. It’s not only about supply reduction. But most importantly, it's about demand reduction,” Abalos said. Furthermore, the DILG secretary congratulated the province of Zamboanga del Sur on its 71st Charter Day celebration. He also commended the leadership of Governor Victor J. Yu, who focused his governance through HEARTS or Health, Education and Environment, Agriculture, Roads and Bridges, Tourism, and Security. Abalos ended his message by inspiring local officials to continue heed the call of President Marcos for unity. “Iisang bangka tayo. We are given this opportunity, let's make the most out of it. It's time to make a difference for our province, for our city, and most specially for our country. Wala nang sana ganito, sa ganyan sa Pilipinas, wala na. Panahon natin 'to gawin na natin ang tama at huwag tayong matakot. Magtulungan tayo," he said. Named as one of the best government initiatives in Asia by international award-giving body GovMedia Awards, the BIDA Program has already been rolled out to over 700 LGUs nationwide since it was officially launched in November last year, initiating several activities such as BIDA Fun Runs, Serbisyo Caravans, Zumba sessions, cycling events, workshops, and seminars. Meanwhile, DILG Undersecretary for Local Goverment Marlo Iringan, during the Laging Handa press briefing in Malacañang, said the BIDA Program has been going around the country, in line with the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s continued campaign against illegal drugs with a renewed focus on demand reduction through a whole-of-nation approach. "Iyong nangyaring bike fest sa Bulacan noong nakaraang Linggo ay isa lamang sa napakaraming mga event at activities na pinangunahan ng ating kagawaran, sa pangunguna ni Secretary Benhur Abalos patungkol doon sa flagship program ng ating pamahalaan na 'Buhay Ingatan, Droga’y Ayawan'," he said. "Nailunsad po natin itong noong nakaraang taon, November actually, at napunta na po tayo sa iba’t ibang bahagi ng Pilipinas at nagkaroon ng bike fest, fun run. At hindi lang po iyon ‘no, napakarami nating mga ugnayan sa iba’t ibang sektor ng lipunan at sa iba’t ibang lebel ng pamahalaan nang sa ganoon ay makuha iyong kanilang suporta sa ating whole-of-nation/whole-of-government approach against illegal drugs," Iringan explained. "Nagawa na po natin sa iba’t ibang bahagi ng Pilipinas at iyan nga ang isa sa mga gagawin pa natin sa mga susunod na araw. Subalit katulad ng nabanggit ko, this is only one of the strategies to generate support against illegal drugs. Nakikipag-ugnayan din po kami halimbawa sa Philippine Basketball Association, sa mga sports association nang sa ganoon suportahan ng mga athletes, na siyang tinitingala/iniidolo ng karamihan sa mga kabataan ‘no, na suportahan itong laban natin sa illegal drugs. Nakikipag-ugnayan kami sa mga iba’t ibang malalaking kumpanya katulad ng SM nang sa ganoon ay magkaroon sila ng initiative or intervention for a drug-free workplace. At iyon na nga po, pati na sa lahat ng mga eskuwelahan, mga unibersidad at mga kolehiyo ay hinihikayat din sila na tumulong ‘no sa laban sa iligal na droga," he added. DILG and Xavier University-Ateneo de Cagayan partner on BIDA The DILG's BIDA Program has also gained anti-illegal drug advocates among the youth of Cagayan de Oro with the signing of a memorandum of agreement with Xavier University-Ateneo De Cagayan. Abalos said the important role of schools like Xavier University-Ateneo De Cagayan and the church in the whole-of-nation BIDA campaign dwells on the holistic formation of the values of the youth and helping them lead productive lives away from the temptation of illegal drugs. DILG Region X Regional Director Wilhelm M. Suyko, who signed the MOA on behalf of the DILG, said youth involvement is a significant and strategic approach to further strengthen the advocacy of the program. “The good thing about this partnership is that this will also be an opportunity to involve the youth in this campaign. We believe that our students could make a change and that they are our instruments in communicating effectively with the youth as well,” Suyko said. The post DILG’s BIDA Program rolled out in Zamboanga del Sur appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»