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On right track
"Culture and the arts reflect our identity as Filipinos, as people. We must have a strong patriotism to embrace our culture and identity fully.” It may be a long and arduous road toward a free and genuine Filipino culture, National Commission for Culture and the Arts Executive Director Oscar G. Casaysay says, “In taking a whole of government approach, we are on the right track in attaining Philippine Development Goals.” Casaysay, who managed the community relations and major festivals and celebrations of the country’s largest city for nine years (from 2004 to 2013), now leads NCCA in preserving, developing, and promoting the Philippine arts and culture. Founded in 1987, NCCA “promotes unity among individuals involved in the conservation of cultural properties, such as artworks, ethnographic collections, archaeological artifacts, and other materials of historical significance.” He admitted that before joining the agency, he only read the works of national artists like Bienvenido Lumbera, Nick Joaquin, and Ricky Lee. He watched the films of esteemed Lino Brocka, Ishmael Bernal and Marilou Abaya. “I only heard and read about the productions of the Cultural Center of the Philippines featuring the Ballet Philippines and the Philippine Harmonic Orchestra,” he said. “It was only when I became the executive director that I was able to watch those productions inside the CCP in the front row and even stand on stage giving out messages.” “I now meet our national artists up close and personal. I have the luxury of being introduced to many theater greats in the Philippine Education Theater Association and other theater productions,” he added. He went on to say that he also had the pleasure of meeting Alice Reyes (whom he described as “graceful and very down to earth”), Ryan Cayabyab (“cool and very accommodating”), Virgilio Almario (“so dignified”), Ramon Santos (“unassuming”), Ricky Lee (“down to earth and very accommodating”), Nora Aunor (“warm and humble”) and Agnes Locsin (“friendly and very warm”). In the absence of regional offices to connect with local artists and cultural workers, he said NCCA works with sub-commissions whose members are elected from among the private sector members from different communities. “Ours is a complex network that we have to deal with,” Casaysay said. “A lot of challenges each day. The most difficult part is we don’t have a huge budget, although the grants we give out come from the National Endowment Fund for Culture and the Arts.” These grants, he said, are derived from the proposals coming from civil society organizations, individual artists and cultural workers, other national government agencies, schools, colleges, universities, and local government units for their culture and arts programs and projects. Through the Sentro Rizal Office, the NCCA also engages in international initiatives. Every day has a lot of challenges and struggles to confront and hurdle, but still, with the most gracious style, he jested. The NCCA oversees the entire recognition process, from the call for submissions and selection to the presentation of the Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan, the Order of National Artists and the National Heritage Awards. Culture is a nation’s soul “Culture is the soul of the nation. Without culture, a nation doesn’t have an identity. Culture refers to the way of life of a nation. Thus, everything that we do as a people becomes our culture,” he said. “Culture is best manifested through the arts that are said to be the best expressions of culture.” “All seven types of arts contribute to the overall growth and advancement not just of a person but of the community and the nation as well,” he said, referring to architecture and allied arts, cinema or film, dance, drama or theater, literary arts, music and visual arts. Throughout the pandemic, he felt disheartened by the perception of the arts sector as being “non-essential.” “We cannot imagine the online platform without some of the best online programs communicated through the arts — films, dances, poetry, music, or even Netflix,” he said. Citing the NCCA’s role in supporting and promoting the interests of indigenous people groups, Casaysay said valuing and preserving the cultural heritage of IPs contributes to the diversity and richness of Philippine culture. Through its programs, projects, and collaborations, the NCCA empowers IPs to protect, revitalize, and celebrate their unique cultural traditions, languages, and arts, ensuring their continued existence and appreciation for future generations. “Other aspects, such as indigenous cultures and cultural heritage, also contribute to a nation’s progress and development,” he said. Indigenous cultures, he said, refer to the knowledge, skills, and practices of our culture bearers that are preserved and handed down from one generation to another. “Cultural heritage may be tangible or intangible and is considered the wealth of a nation in terms of its glorious past. All these facets of culture are important in the life of a nation and are essential towards the holistic advancement of a country,” he said. Opportunities The lack of widespread discussion and engagement among Filipinos regarding culture is a primary concern Casaysay and many others share. “There are many challenges faced by the NCCA in this aspect. To enumerate a few — due to the lack of interest generally by Filipinos in arts and culture. For many, culture and the arts are seen as not essential; for many, it is only for the elite,” he said. He lamented the current trend wherein the younger generation shows greater appreciation for foreign cultures, such as those from Korea or the United States, rather than their own. Instead of viewing these as obstacles, he said the NCCA sees them as opportunities for growth and enhancement. Expressing confidence in the significant achievements of the NCCA in fostering greater appreciation, understanding, respect, and love for arts and culture among Filipinos, he said these encompass various aspects, including policy formulation, programming and promotions. Several laws have been enacted to safeguard the country’s cultural heritage, such as the Republic Act 10066 of 2009, commonly known as the National Heritage Law. Moreover, the NCCA organizes institutional programs throughout the year to celebrate and promote different facets of Filipino culture. Notable examples include National Arts Month held every February, Food Month and Literature Month in April; Heritage Month in May, Linggo ng Musikang Pilipino (OPM Week) in the last week of July, and IP Month in October, among others. “The NCCA is also in charge of the cultural mapping and monitoring of the local culture and arts councils in the local government units,” he said, adding that it needs to intensify its efforts to be able to reach the grassroots levels. Since dreams don’t become reality through magic but by sweat, determination, and hard work, Casaysay said the NCCA will harness and maximize more platforms to reach a larger market, especially the younger generation. The dream of having a Department of Culture is neither a mountain high enough. The post On right track appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Belmonte named Presidential Lingkod-Bayan awardee
Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte has been named regional winner of the Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award from the Civil Service Commission National Capital Region for its 2023 Search for Outstanding Government Workers. The certificate, issued 19 May and presented yesterday, was signed by CSC NCR Committee Chairperson Judith Dongallo-Chicano and Committee Members Maverick Sevilla, Joselito Florendo, Hans Alcantara, and Vlademir Villacorta, in recognition of Belmonte’s outstanding performance as a public servant. “We thank the CSC for this big honor. This is not for me but for all our city government workers serving our QCitizens,” Belmonte said. “If not for them, we would have not received this recognition for our service, programs and projects,” she added. Established by virtue of Executive Order No. 508, s-1992, the Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award is given for outstanding work performance and contributors with national impact. According to the CSC process, the names of the regional winners will then be forwarded to the Honor Awards Program National Secretariat for review before a national qualifier will be determined. The Committee on Awards for the Presidential Lingkod Bayan and CSC Pagasa, and the Committee on the Outstanding Public Officials and Employees (Dangal ng Bayan) Award will deliberate at the national level. The said committees are composed of government officials appointed by the President of the Philippines, members of the Commission, heads of constitutional bodies, and prominent Filipino citizens who are not in government service. The semifinalists will be determined after the first round of deliberations and they will undergo background investigation to verify their accomplishments, as well as clearances from appropriate government agencies. These will be considered during the second round of deliberations before the list of finalists is submitted to the Office of the President for vetting and approval. Several QC government officials, led by City Administrator Michael Alimurung, were also nominated for the Pagasa Award, along with Chief of Staff Rowena Macatao, Business Permits, and Licensing Department Head Margarita Santos, City Engineer Atty. Dale Perral, and City Treasurer Edgar Villanueva. The late traffic enforcer Jeffrey Antolin was also nominated for the Dangal ng Bayan Award for giving his life to save a commuter from harm. The post Belmonte named Presidential Lingkod-Bayan awardee appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
166 vie for outstanding government worker awards
A total of 166 public servants are competing for the Outstanding Government Worker awards conferred annually by the Civil Service Commission......»»
DFA launches e-Apostille service; first in Asean region
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Foreign Affairs Office of Consular Affairs (DFA – OCA) announced that it launched an e-Apostille service for civil registry documents. DFA said the system will allow the public to apply online for e-documents and e-Apostilles from the Philippine Statistics Agency (PSA) without having to appear in both offices. Foreign Affairs.....»»
Role of women athletes acknowledged
Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Richard Bachmann championed the women athletes and their unparalleled role in elevating the local sports development in the inaugural Women in Sports Awards Wednesday night at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum......»»
SALN filing deadline set on April 30
Government officials and employees must file their 2023 Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth on or before April 30, according to the Civil Service Commission......»»
CSC: Adopt flexible work arrangements for Ramadan
All state agencies should allow flexible work arrangements for Muslim officials and employees during the fasting period of Ramadan, according to the Civil Service Commission......»»
Government workers for 10 years may earn civil service eligibility
Job order contractual, casual and co-terminus employees who have been working in the government for at least 10 aggregate years may now apply for civil service eligibility, according to the Civil Service Commission......»»
Election watchdog warns Comelec tapping Miru could lead to 2025 midterm polls’ failure
A warning was issued by election watchdog ‘Democracy Watch‘ to the Commission on Elections (Comelec) on the possibility of an election failure in the 2025 midterm polls if the government awards the new electronic voting system contract to South Korean firm Miru Systems Co. Ltd. The second round of public bidding for next year’s automated […].....»»
Government workers urged: Innovate, improve services
Civil Service Commission Chairman Karlo Nograles has asked the country’s 1.9 million government workers to continue to innovate and improve the delivery of services to the public......»»
Obiena named ‘Sports Idol’ in returning Siklab Awards
Asian pole vault champion Ernest John EJ Obiena has been named the Sports Idol at the third Siklab Youth Sports Awards. The event, organized by the Philippine Sports Commission and the Philippine Olympic Committee, will honor 58 young athletes from 33 sports. Obiena, currently ranked second in the world, will share the spotlight with other outstanding athletes including tennis star Alex Eala, weightlifting world youth champion Prince Keil Delos Santos, and gymnast Karl Eldrew Yulo. The awards ceremony, which was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, will take place on December 4 in Taguig City......»»
NTC feted anew in FOI Awards
The National Telecommunications Commission has again been recognized in the recent 2023 Freedom of Information (FOI) Awards......»»
Aboitiz Group’s Sustainability Efforts Earn Public Recognition
Underscoring her pivotal role in driving sustainable practices within the private sector, Aboitiz Group’s First Vice President and Chief Reputation and Sustainability Officer Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar was awarded the Private Sector Sustainability Champion at the 2nd Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Gender and Development Awards last Friday, November 24, 2023. Hontiveros-Malvar highlighted the Aboitiz Group’s efforts […].....»»
Young athlete achievers to be feted in returning Siklab Awards
Almost 60 awardees from 33 sports will be celebrated in the returning Siklab Youth Sports Awards of the Philippine Sports Commission and the Philippine Olympic Committee (PSC-POC) Media Group......»»
FEU Tech named Top University for Real Impact for third consecutive year
Real-world impact and contributions to society are the best measures of education. It stands as the most valid indicator of effective learning. The World University Rankings for Innovation has revolutionized the way we measure academic success, putting emphasis on tangible outcomes that shape communities and drive progress. Leading the charge among Philippine universities, FEU Tech (Far Eastern University Institute of Technology) has risen through the ranks of this prestigious award for three consecutive years, showcasing its unwavering commitment to modern education. With groundbreaking research, cutting-edge methodologies and a transformative approach to learning, FEU Tech is not just creating graduates but shaping future Filipino trailblazers who can thrive in workplaces and create substantial impact in different industries. Real-world results WURI aims to effectively measure such impact by highlighting creative and innovative approaches universities have in their research and educational programs through six categories: Industrial Application, rather than the traditional ways of counting research papers and lecture-type teaching; Value-Creating startups and entrepreneurship, rather than a traditional focus on the number of jobs filled; Social Responsibility, Ethics and Integrity, rather than a focus on knowledge and skills just for material success; Student Mobility and Openness for exchange and collaboration between schools and across national borders, rather than an independent yet closed system; Crisis Management in the midst of climate change, Covid-19 pandemic and other global and local crises; Progress during the Fourth Industrial Revolution through digital technology, artificial intelligence, big data, cloud services, blockchain and so on. FEU Tech, which has always been on the lookout for opportunities to innovate its educational programs, was the only university in the Philippines to join the WURI Rankings back in 2020. After ranking Top 19 for Ethical Values on their first try, the institution was poised to garner more awards in succeeding years. In 2021, FEU Tech ranked Top 24 for Entrepreneurial Spirit. In 2022, they ranked Top 98 overall globally, and in 2023, ranked Top 77 overall in a very competitive pool of top-performing universities and institutions both in the Philippines and around the globe. FEU’s invaluable contribution towards the internationalization of Philippine higher education also garnered recognition from the Commission on Higher Education during the Internationalization Champions of Nation-Building and Sustainability Awards 2023 last 6 October. The award was received by Dr. Florante D. Poso Jr., director of Quality Assurance. Immersive FEU Tech’s commitment to revolutionizing education goes beyond rankings. Amidst the pandemic crisis, the university has unveiled its innovative Mastery-based Individualized Learning Enhancement System, which aims to create an adaptive, immersive and personalized learning experience. MILES empowers students with the flexibility to explore and master their subjects at their own pace, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving and creativity. At the heart of MILES lies a cutting-edge virtual learning environment where students can immerse themselves in interactive simulations, collaborate with peers and engage in hands-on learning experiences, transcending the limitations imposed by physical classrooms. The university’s enhanced WURI ranking is just the beginning when it comes to its pivotal role in shaping innovation ecosystems, creating significant contributions to society and becoming a recognized global leader in transformative education. The post FEU Tech named Top University for Real Impact for third consecutive year appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
A positive difference
“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others,” Mahatma Gandhi once said. Marian Wright Edelman states, “Service is the rent we pay for being. It is the very purpose of life, and not something you do in your spare time.” Two memorable statements capture the essence of Attorney Kelvin Lester Lee, hailed by Dean Antonio La Viña of Ateneo School of Government as “one of the finest and most visionary individuals to have emerged from Ateneo Law School.” It’s no surprise that Atty. Lee became a Commissioner at the Securities and Exchange Commission in 2019. While his position may be formidable, those who have met him in person can attest to his kind-hearted nature and willingness to devote his time generously. When expressing his views, he displays a remarkable level of candor, always taking the time to carefully consider his words before speaking. Aside from his sense of humor, Lee possesses a remarkable ability to engage in meaningful conversations. When he speaks, he has a way of looking directly into your eyes, underscoring the significance of his words. Even in intense situations, he maintains a calm demeanor and is known to offer a comforting smile, lightening the atmosphere. In his role as Commissioner at the SEC, Atty. Lee assumes the responsibility of overseeing various crucial departments and divisions. These include the markets and securities regulation department, the information and communications technology department, the PhiliFintech innovation office dedicated to Philippine financial technology, and the international affairs and protocol division. Moreover, he holds authority over capital markets, sustainable finance, Fintech and information technology, and international affairs, ensuring their effective management and implementation. While the enormity of those tasks might induce vertigo in most individuals, Atty. Lee remains unfazed. “It is perhaps the best job I have ever had,” he admitted. “I enjoy making a positive change in the sector I am handling. I enjoy pushing innovations and encouraging improvements in the financial sector and capital markets.” With great responsibility, Lee adopts a heightened level of caution. Recognizing the potential impact of his words, he expressed the need to exercise carefulness in his public statements, as any statement he makes can influence the stock market. This awareness underscores his commitment to acting with prudence and considering the far-reaching implications of his words. Let’s delve into the life of Lee, who began his journey in the humble city of Davao, his birthplace. He embarked on his educational path at the Ateneo de Davao University for his grade school education, followed by his enrollment at Davao Central High School, then called Davao Chinese High School. After completing his schooling in Davao, he ventured to Beijing, China, where he pursued studies in the Chinese language and gained work experience with a foreign company. However, after two years, he returned to the Philippines and enrolled in Ateneo de Manila University to pursue a law degree. This journey showcases his diverse experiences and the foundation of his educational and cultural background. “The Ateneo de Manila entrance exam was the only one I could take that year when I came back from China,” he said, adding that he never dreamed of becoming a lawyer. “I just wanted to give it a try. And found I was a surprisingly good fit for it.” As a lawyer, he has five ideal lawyers. Only one is a foreigner: Sir Thomas Moore, an English lawyer, social philosopher, author, and statesman whom Roman Catholics venerated as Saint Thomas More. “He stood by his faith and principles,” he said. Fresh from hurdling the Bar exam, he worked at the Siguion-Reyna Montecillo and Ongsiako law firm, where he learned the importance of being enterprising and putting in a diligent effort to succeed. However, despite his professional growth, he decided to quit and return to his hometown of Davao, placing the deeply rooted value on family and prioritizing personal and familial responsibilities above career pursuits. As a father to two daughters, Atty. Lee expressed that fatherhood has had a profound impact on him, bringing about significant changes. He considers it one of the greatest blessings he could ever receive. According to him, the love that his children show him is genuine and unmatched. He believes that the love of young children is unparalleled. Experiencing this level of love is indescribable, knowing someone loves you unconditionally. This extraordinary bond makes fatherhood one of the most precious and fulfilling aspects of his life. “The love your kids show you is real,” he said. “You will never be as loved as you are by your young children. There is no feeling quite like it to know that someone loves you as much as that. That’s what makes it one of the best things.” Working in government “It is an honor to serve. Very few people get an opportunity to help the country and serve the president and the people,” said Lee, who is a former assistant secretary at the Office of the Executive Secretary in Malacañang, where he was also designated to sit on the Board of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority. Atty. Lee’s dedication to public service earned him well-deserved recognition in his field. In March this year, he received two international accolades for his role in driving the advancement of financial technology in the Philippine business sector, highlighting his visionary thinking and influential impact solidifying his reputation as a trailblazer in the field. In the 10th annual Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, Lee was bestowed the Gold Stevie award for his outstanding contributions as a Thought Leader of the Year. These awards celebrate workplace innovation across all 29 countries in the Asia-Pacific region. From a vast pool of over 800 regional nominations, winners were selected in various categories, including the Award for Excellence in Innovation in Products & Services, the Award for Innovative Management, and the Award for Innovation in Corporate Websites, among others. “It feels great. It’s always wonderful to be recognized for all the hard work and changes you pursue at a government agency. And I was quite surprised to get the Gold Stevie Award, the highest level of the award for thought leadership. I feel so honored!” In the next decade, Atty. Lee, now 44, envisions continuing his career in law, possibly incorporating elements of technology, and hopes to stay actively involved in government work and make a significant impact by fostering meaningful transformation. “Working in government can be quite fulfilling. I encourage young lawyers and professionals to enter the arena and work in government to try and make a positive difference.” The post A positive difference appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Matibag quits PDP-Laban post
Lawyer and former acting Cabinet secretary Melvin Matibag quit his post as secretary general of PDP-Laban, which former President Rodrigo Duterte chairs. In his resignation letter dated 19 October, Matibag told Duterte he was “forever grateful for the trust and confidence you have bestowed on me as the party’s secretary general.” “I believe I have shown my loyalty to you as chairman by helping steer the party in the direction you have taken, especially during the national elections of 2019 and 2022,” his resignation letter read. Matibag did not give a reason for resigning, but he apologized for its “apparent inopportuneness.” He said he will “always be available to give assistance to ensure a smooth and seamless transfer of my duties and responsibilities.” Matibag’s resignation came as the PDP-Laban is reportedly facing internal divisions. In March 2022, Duterte appointed Matibag as interim Cabinet secretary. He replaced Karlo Nograles, who had been serving as chair of the Civil Service Commission. Matibag is affiliated with Alfonso Cusi’s faction of PDP-Laban, which had differences with the faction led by Senate Minority Leader Koko Pimentel. Cusi, then-Energy secretary during Duterte’s term, supported President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in the 2022 elections, while Pimentel supported boxer and ex-senator Manny Pacquiao. The post Matibag quits PDP-Laban post appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
CCC: CSOs crucial to pushing climate actions in Phl
The Climate Change Commission said collaborative efforts are crucial to pushing climate actions in the country. Secretary Robert E.A Borje, the CCC vice chair and executive director, pressed that promoting partnerships among stakeholders, particularly with the civil society organizations in the country, serves as huge contributors to building a resilient Philippines. “For climate change, no task is too big or too small. Participation in programs and activities, like tree and mangrove planting and coastal cleanups – when done together, simultaneously – can make a huge difference,” Borje underscored, during the commemoration of this year’s Social Development Week on Thursday, 19 October. Borje cited this year’s climate forum with the theme: “Facing the Impact of Climate Change on Sustainable Development,”—which was sponsored by the Caucus of Development NGO Networks also known as CODE-NGO, one of the country’s largest groups of CSOs in the country. The CODE-NGO is composed of 12 national and regional networks representing 1,600 non-government organizations, people’s organizations, and cooperatives nationwide. Borje said the CCC, under the guidance of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., has been able to establish and strengthen partnerships with various stakeholders, including CSOs, development partners, private sector, and local government units, to push the country’s goal of combatting climate change and its impact. The CCC also pushed its "Working to Empower Climate Action Network” or “WE CAN” program—tailored specifically for CSOs' collaboration with the government. “The Commission counts on your active involvement in this resilience-building effort. But we can do more if we continue to work together. The CCC champions advocacies where all of you can take part. May we continue to be part of the solution to this global governance challenge of our generation,” said Borje. “In the end, all our actions and initiatives will count as means to save lives, protect our livelihoods, and secure our future. As partners, sama-sama tayong magkaisa tungo sa isang bagong bansang matatag,” he pressed on. In the same event, Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga also emphasized the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration and partnerships to push environmental advocacies in the country. “We aim for inclusive processes recognizing that every voice needs to be heard, and for partners to secure co-benefits and build resilience for a truly whole-of-society effort in addressing climate change,” said Loyzaga. The post CCC: CSOs crucial to pushing climate actions in Phl appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Matibag quits post in Digong’s PDP-Laban
Lawyer and former acting Cabinet secretary Melvin Matibag has quit his post as the secretary general of PDP-Laban chaired by former President Rodrigo Duterte. In his resignation letter dated 19 October, Matibag said that he is "forever grateful for the trust and confidence you have bestowed to me as the party's secretary-general." He added that he believes he has "shown my loyalty to you as the Chairman by helping to steer the party in the direction you have taken, especially during the national elections of 2019 and 2022." Matibag did not give any reason for his resignation, apologizing instead for its "apparent inopportuneness." He said that he will "always be available to give assistance to ensure smooth and seamless transfer of my duties and responsibilities." Matibag's resignation comes at a time when the PDP-Laban is facing internal divisions. In March 2022, Duterte appointed Matibag as the interim cabinet secretary. He replaced Karlo Nograles, who had been serving as the chairperson of the Civil Service Commission. Matibag was affiliated with Alfonso Cusi's PDP-Laban faction, which had differences with the group led by Senate Minority Leader Koko Pimentel. Cusi, who was the Department of Energy secretary during Duterte’s term, supported President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. during the 2022 elections, while Pimentel supported ex-senator Manny Pacquiao. The post Matibag quits post in Digong’s PDP-Laban appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DOH chief seeks higher pay for psychologists, psychiatrists
Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa yesterday urged the Civil Service Commission to review the requirements being asked of clinical psychologists and psychiatrists in order to practice their profession......»»