Palace eyes more beneficiaries for ECQ ayuda ; aid out by end of April
The Palace said economic managers are expected to discuss the details of the assistance in a press briefing on Monday......»»
DavNor vice guv denies involvement in ayuda scam
The Vice Governor of Davao del Norte has denied any involvement in the alleged ayuda scam following claims made during a Senate hearing chaired by Senator Ronald Bato Dela Rosa. The hearing revealed that public officials in Davao de Oro and Davao del Norte were linked to illegally using cash assistance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and funds from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) for political campaigns. Vice Governor De Carlo Oyo Uy refuted the allegations, stating that there is no truth to the claims. In response, Governor Edwin Kuya Gov Jubahib emphasized that he was protecting the welfare of his constituents and the country's budget. He called for the punishment of those involved. The governor had previously requested an investigation into the ayuda scam after individuals in the provinces received less than the intended assistance. The vice governor announced plans for a separate investigation to clear his name and clarified that the DSWD is solely responsible for the identification, assessment, validation, and distribution of cash assistance to beneficiaries......»»
DoF: ESG bond deals hit $3.55B
The government has funded green and social projects through the issuance of bonds amounting to $3.55 billion or P195.64 billion from March 2022 to January this year, resulting in bigger areas of replanted forestland and more flood-safe communities and benefiting agricultural entrepreneurs and students with tertiary education. The Sustainability Bond Allocation and Impact Report released Monday by the Department of Finance shows the total fund consisted of four bond transactions dedicated to environment, social and governance or ESG projects. For last year’s bond issuances, the government raised $1 billion in March, 70.1 billion Japanese yen in April, and $750 million in October. In January this year, it raised $1.25 billion. Proceeds from the bonds were used to either fully or partially finance and refinance four groups of projects by various government agencies from 2020 to 2022. DENR’s planting, marine program First, the planting and marine program by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources expanded greenery in forestland spanning 45,947.44 hectares and preserved plants in 191,081 hectares last year. Meanwhile, 244 areas covering 7.73 million hectares of terrestrial, marine, coastal, caves, and wetlands have been protected against biodiversity destruction. The P10.1-billion program provided jobs to 1,868 Filipinos this year from 1,808 in 2020 and financial aid to 68 groups from 25. Moving forward, the Marcos administration aims to boost production of bamboo and indigenous tree species on 3,565 hectares of land. Second, the flood management projects of the Department of Public Works and Highways along the country’s major rivers and river basins increased to 2,088 projects last year from 2,037 in 2020. These included floodways, dikes, water impounding structures and dredging works. The bond proceeds allocation to this program was P80.7 billion or 27 percent of the total project cost. Third, the bond proceeds enabled the Department of Labor and Employment, or DoLE, to provide business training, working capital, tools, and microinsurance to 9,112 members of the marginalized communities and displaced workers. These benefits were given under DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program, and Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/ Displaced Workers or the Emergency Employment Program. Lastly, the Commission on Higher Education and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority were able to distribute funds for free tertiary education and subsidies to Filipino youth. Beneficiaries of free education in CHED-accredited local universities and colleges increased to 349,208 last year from 253,302 in 2020. The post DoF: ESG bond deals hit $3.55B appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go sends assistance to Cebu fire victims
The office of Senator Christopher “Bong” Go spearheaded a relief operation for fire victims in Barangays Kasambagan, Duljo Fatima, and Inayawan in Cebu City on Thursday, 21 September, as part of the senator’s efforts to ensure that the communities fully recover from the incident. The relief operation was held at Brgy. Kasambagan Hall. The senator’s team, together with Brgy. Kasambagan Captain Franklyn Ong, distributed snacks, shirts, and balls for basketball and volleyball to 102 fire victims. They also gave away shoes, watches, and mobile phones to select recipients. Meanwhile, the National Housing Authority (NHA) provided housing assistance to each qualified family. “Isinulong din natin na mabigyan sila ng National Housing Authority ng ayuda pambili ng housing materials tulad ng pako, yero at iba pa upang maisaayos muli ang kanilang mga tirahan,” Go said in a video message. “Isinulong ko ito noon at patuloy na sinusuportahan ang programa ng NHA ngayon upang mas marami pang mga biktima ng sakuna ang makapagpatayo ng maayos na bahay at makabangon muli mula sa trahedya,” he added. Go also highlighted Republic Act No. 11589 or the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Modernization Act of 2021. This legislation, principally authored and co-sponsored by Go, is designed to bolster BFP’s capacity through a decade-long modernization initiative. This program encompasses the enlistment of additional firefighters, procurement of more firefighting equipment, and the provision of specialized training. “Alam ko pong mahirap ang masunugan pero magtiwala lang po kayo sa gobyerno at tayo po ay makakaahon muli. Ang importante ay walang nasaktan. Ang pera ay kikitain naman po natin yan pero ang buhay ay hindi nabibili ng pera. A lost life is a lost life forever kaya mag-ingat tayo,” said Go. As chair of the Senate Committee on Health, Go also encouraged residents to take advantage of the services offered by the Malasakit Centers nationwide, including the centers located at Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center (VSMMC), Cebu City Medical Center, and St. Anthony Mother & Child Hospital, all in Cebu City. The Malasakit Center is a convenient one-stop shop that brings together relevant agencies to provide medical aid to indigent Filipinos. Go is the principal author and sponsor of the Malasakit Centers Act, which has successfully assisted over seven million Filipinos through the 159 operational centers nationwide. “Ako po ay nasunugan at tinulungan po ako ng mahal na mayor at mahal na Senator Bong Go... Ako rin po ay nanganak at tinulungan ng Malasakit Center sa aking bill. Kaya naman nagpapasalamat ako kay Senator Bong Go sa programa niya dahil ako ay natulungan ng Malasakit Center,” Manilyn Sarmiento, one of the beneficiaries, expressed. Other Malasakit Centers in the province are available at Cebu Provincial Hospital in Carcar City, Lapu-Lapu City District Hospital, Eversley Childs Sanitarium and General Hospital in Mandaue City, and Talisay District Hospital in Talisay City. Go also expressed his support for the construction of Super Health Centers in strategic locations as identified by DOH nationwide. Through the collective efforts of Go, DOH, LGUs, and fellow lawmakers, sufficient funds had been allocated for 307 Super Health Centers in 2022 and 322 in 2023. Go emphasized the critical role that Super Health Centers play in decongesting hospitals, facilitating early disease detection, and providing essential healthcare services such as primary care and medical consultations directly to the community. These centers are designed to offer a wide range of basic health services, database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray, 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, which makes remote diagnosis and treatment of patients possible. Moreover, echoing President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr.’s priority of bringing specialized medical services closer to other parts of the country, Go highlighted that he has principally sponsored and is one of the authors of the Regional Specialty Centers Act which was recently enacted into law. The law mandates the establishment of regional specialty centers within existing DOH regional hospitals. It stands as a testament to the commitment of the government to uplift the nation's health infrastructure and bring actual medical services closer to the Filipino people. Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, likewise supported the funding of various projects in the province, including the construction of multipurpose buildings in Barili, Cordova, Ginatilan, Pilar, Tabogon, and Talisay City; improvement of existing roads in Alcantara, Alcoy, Alegria, Asturias, Balamban, Boljoon, Borbon, Carmen, Madrilejos, Malabuyoc, Minglanilla, Moalboal, Pinamungajan, Sibonga, Sogod, Tabogon, Tabuelan, Carcar City and Naga City; improvement of flood mitigation structures in Catmon and Tuburan; installation of street lights in Asturias, Compostela and Daanbantayan; and acquisition of ambulance units for Madridejos and Naga City. The post Bong Go sends assistance to Cebu fire victims appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go helps recovering fire victims rebuild in Valenzuela City
The Office of Senator Christopher “Bong” Go led a relief operation for fire victims in Valenzuela City on Tuesday, September 5, as part of the senator’s efforts to help disaster-affected households rebuild and recover. The distribution was held at Arkong Bato National High School in coordination with Mayor Weslie “Wes” Gatchalian. The senator’s team provided grocery packs, masks, shirts, vitamins, snacks, and balls for basketball and volleyball to 225 recovering fire victims. They also gave away shoes and mobile phones to select individuals. Meanwhile, the National Housing Authority (NHA) provided housing assistance to each affected family through the Emergency Housing Assistance Program (EHAP). “Isinulong din natin na mabigyan sila ng National Housing Authority ng ayuda pambili ng housing materials tulad ng pako, yero at iba pa upang maisaayos muli ang kanilang mga tirahan,” Go highlighted. “Itong EHAP program, isinulong ko ito noon at patuloy na sinusuportahang mapondohan ang programa ngayon upang mas marami pang mga biktima ng sakuna ang makapagpatayo ng maayos na bahay at makabangon muli mula sa trahedya,” he added. The relief activity was attended by several officials, including NHA Assistant General Manager Alvin Feliciano, who expressed his appreciation for the senator, saying, “Senator Bong Go, ang buong barangay po ng Arkong Bato ay nagpapasalamat sa inyong biyaya. Napakalaking tulong po nito sa amin. Lalo na para makaahon sila sa buhay. Mr. Malasakit, saludo po kami sa inyo.” Meanwhile, Go highlighted Republic Act No. 11589, also known as the Bureau of Fire Protection Modernization Act of 2021. The law, which was authored and co-sponsored by Go, aims to enhance the capabilities of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) through a ten-year modernization program, which includes the recruitment of more firefighters, acquisition of new fire equipment, and specialized training. “Alam ko pong mahirap ang masunugan pero magtiwala lang po kayo sa gobyerno at tayo po ay makakaahon muli. Ang importante ay walang nasaktan. Ang pera ay kikitain naman po natin yan pero ang buhay ay hindi nabibili ng pera. A lost life is a lost life forever kaya mag-ingat tayo,” said Go. The lawmaker likewise continues to push for the enactment of Senate Bill No. 192, which seeks to institutionalize the Rental Housing Subsidy Program. Under the proposed measure, a housing and social protection program will be developed to provide disaster victims better and more affordable access to the formal housing market through the provision of rental subsidies provided by the government. Meanwhile, Go filed SBN 193, or the proposed Mandatory Evacuation Center Act, which aims to ensure that disaster victims will have temporary shelters that will guarantee their safety and welfare while they recover and rebuild their lives. The senator also encouraged residents to take advantage of the services offered in Malasakit Centers nationwide, including those established in Valenzuela Medical Center and Valenzuela City Emergency Hospital, which are both located in the city. The Malasakit Center is a one-stop shop that brings together relevant agencies to provide medical aid to poor and indigent Filipinos. Go is the principal author and sponsor of the Malasakit Centers Act, which has successfully assisted over seven million Filipinos through its 158 operational centers nationwide. “Ako po ay nasunugan at tinulangan po ako ng mahal na mayor at mahal na Senator Bong Go sa kahirapan. Ako rin po ay nanganak at tinulungan ng Malasakit Center sa aking bill. Kaya naman nagpapasalamat ako kay Senator Bong Go sa programa niya dahil ako ay natulungan ng Malasakit Center,” Manilyn Sarmiento, one of the beneficiaries, expressed. Go also expressed his support for the construction of 28 Super Health Centers in strategic locations across Metro Manila, in collaboration with the Department of Health. These centers are designed to offer a wide range of basic health services, database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray, ultrasound), pharmacy, and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service; oncology centers; physical therapy and rehabilitation center; and telemedicine, which makes remote diagnosis and treatment of patients possible. Moreover, echoing President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr.’s priority of bringing specialized medical services closer to other parts of the country, Go has successfully sponsored in the Senate the Regional Specialty Centers Act which he also filed as one of its authors. As vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, Go has been a staunch supporter of various initiatives in the city. These include the construction of the Valenzuela Center for Academic Excellence, acquisition of ambulance units for the city government, and the construction of a multipurpose building in Brgy. Canumay West. The post Bong Go helps recovering fire victims rebuild in Valenzuela City appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
OWWA must come clean
When migrant workers were among the first to be hit by the impact of Covid-19 when the lockdowns began globally, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration or OWWA was expected to aid overseas Filipino workers in their ordeal. Instead, the Commission on Audit found questionable OWWA moves in the conduct of the repatriation of OFWs and the use of public funds for this. Some 3,707 overseas Filipino workers were repatriated from April 2020 to May 2022 at “more than a single instance.” According to the 2022 CoA report, doubts were raised “on the eligibility” of the repatriates to qualify as being in distress. By doing so, the recipients of the OWWA assistance “expended funds that should have been borne by these OFWs during their regular trips back home contrary to Section 2 of Presidential Decree 1445, thereby depleting scarce government resources.” That was a period when the government was scrounging for funds for programs to respond to the effects of the pandemic. CoA said a review of the list of repatriates indicated that the 3,707 individuals who availed of the emergency program were repeat beneficiaries up to five times over 26 months. “It was noted that 88 percent or 3,250 of these individuals were sea-based,” the CoA said. CoA investigation indicated that the repatriation program was used by the OFWs for their regular trips back home after their contracts had expired “and not due to distress as can be gleaned by the number of times these OFWs availed of the program.” What made matters worse was the response of OWWA to the CoA findings that “it could not explain how the OFWs were assessed to qualify as overseas Filipinos in distress.” CoA added that the improper evaluation of the OFWs that availed of the program “may have a detrimental outcome on the effectiveness of the program as it exhausted funds that could have been used to accommodate eligible” recipients. OWWA said its regional offices only received OFWs “who boarded via sweeper flights as communicated by the central office.” A further review of the program showed unobligated hotel accommodation expenses by the regional offices in 2020 amounting to P642,000 that was paid using the 2022 Emergency Repatriation Fund, which violated the law. Under the law, or PD 1445, “no money shall be paid out of any public treasury or depository except in pursuance of an appropriation law or other specific statutory authority.” Section 119 also requires that “all lawful expenditures and obligations incurred during the year shall be taken up in the accounts of that year” to address the expenses paid out of the budget two years after. CoA also questioned a total of P328,756 in disbursements by the central office and six regional offices that were “deemed irregular, unnecessary, excessive, extravagant and unconscionable expenditures.” CoA, in the exercise of its functions, had to rely on hard numbers, the reply of agency officials, and the presumption of regularity in addressing the questionable dealings of the OWWA. Since it lacks auditors and field investigators, CoA’s options are limited unless other probers such as the Senate or the National Bureau of Investigation step in. Considering the emergency when it happened, however, probing the suspected OWWA irregularities, based on the CoA report, should be taken to its logical conclusion. The post OWWA must come clean appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Lifeline rate discounts for marginalized households
The Manila Electric Company has ramped up the conduct of barangay caravans in different cities and provinces within its franchise area to encourage more beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program and other qualified marginalized households to apply for the lifeline rate program so that they can get discounts on their electricity bills. Starting September 2023, only customers with approved applications will continue to enjoy the discount in accordance with the implementing rules and regulations of Republic Act 11552 or the law extending and enhancing the implementation of the lifeline rate. Beyond information campaigns that started as early as April, Meralco has also been conducting on-site applications for qualified customers so that they can immediately benefit from the program. Meralco vice president and head of corporate communications Joe R. Zaldarriaga said the power distributor is looking for ways to encourage more customers to apply for the lifeline rate program. “While we have already engaged all local social welfare development offices or SWDOs in our franchise area, we will continue to reach out to more customers and we hope that the onsite applications will lead to the increase in the number of program beneficiaries,” he said. For this month, Meralco has lined up onsite applications and caravans in the cities of Caloocan, Las Piñas, Manila, Parañaque, Quezon and Valenzuela. Outside of Metro Manila, Meralco will also do the same in San Rafael and Meycauayan in Bulacan, San Pablo City in Laguna, General Mariano Alvarez and General Trias in Cavite, Taytay and Rodriguez in Rizal and Mauban and Sariaya in Quezon. Under the lifeline rate program, qualified customers should have a monthly electricity consumption of 100 kilowatt hours or below to avail of the discount ranging from 20 percent to 100 percent in their Meralco electricity bills depending on their actual consumption. Eligible customers can still apply by visiting the nearest Meralco Business Center, together with their completed application form, latest electricity bill and 4Ps ID. Non-4Ps beneficiaries may present a local SWDO certification and government ID. Applicants can also take advantage of the dedicated lanes for the lifeline rate program applications. “We are calling on all our qualified customers to take advantage of our caravans and apply for the program so that they can continue to benefit from the discount. Rest assured that Meralco will immediately process the applications and continue our information and education campaigns to bring in more customers to the program,” said Zaldarriaga. Visit www.meralco.com.ph and official social media channels on Facebook (www.facebook.com/meralco) and Twitter (@meralco) for more information. The post Lifeline rate discounts for marginalized households appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
In my dreams
Couple Benedict and Marjorie have been living in the vicinity of Rajah Sulayman Park in Malate for 13 years now. With their four young children, the entire park is their living room, dining area and playground. An old pedicab covered with a hand-me-down tarpaulin serves as their bedroom cum storage area. At night, they all retire to their “bed,” a collapsed carton box in a tiny space inside the pedicab — like sardines in a can. Rain or shine, their precious pedicab is their security blanket against the external elements. For more than a decade, Benedict and Marjorie have been making ends meet with their measly earnings as a parking striker and attendant, respectively. Their combined daily minimum income of less than P400 is not enough to feed six and sustain the needs of two children who are already in kindergarten and two toddlers. Undaunted, the couple still looks forward to receiving government assistance despite having been denied Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program or 4Ps membership four times. In the thick of their hopes came the recent pronouncement by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. that the 4Ps — a poverty alleviation initiative that provides cash assistance for the immediate needs of the poor — may be terminated if there is no need for it. Imagine how broken-hearted the 4.3-million households who were helped in 2022 by the 4Ps must be. It could be even more depressing for Benedict and Marjorie who continue to hold on to their hope of having their own house and small business so their children will not have to grow up in the streets, and ultimately may be snatched away from poverty. Launched in 2008, 4Ps provides conditional cash transfers designed to meet the health, nutrition, and educational needs of vulnerable families. On 17 April 2019, 4Ps was institutionalized under Republic Act 11310. Patterned after the conditional cash transfer schemes implemented in other developing countries, 4Ps provides cash grants to low-income households on the condition that they meet certain requirements, such as sending their children to school and going for healthcare check-ups. Among the countries that have implemented successful conditional cash transfer programs as part of their poverty reduction strategies are Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, Peru and Indonesia. Undeniably, CCTs have shown promising results in reducing poverty and improving living conditions for the target population. By providing cash transfers, households have increased their income to meet basic needs, such as food, education and healthcare. I know many whose children are now college graduates and evidently broke the intergenerational cycle of poverty and improved the long-term prospects for individuals and communities. Innumerable women and children were provided financial resources and opportunities for empowerment. The program, however, did not target all the poorest of the poor. It is a known fact that cash transfers reached those that did not need them the most — like families of OFWs. Relatives, friends, neighbors and allies of local officials have been surprisingly part of the 4.2 million beneficiary list. Here lie the challenges, however. One, implementing and managing conditional cash transfer programs can be complex and resource-intensive to accurately identify eligible beneficiaries, track compliance with conditions, and distribute payments promptly. Two, imposing conditions on beneficiaries may not always be feasible or effective. Like Benedict and Marjorie, who were denied a 4th time because they have no marriage certificate to show. Another one this writer knows is someone with a disability who faced difficulties in complying with the requirements, thus missing out on the benefits. Three, sustaining these programs in the long term can be challenging, especially if funding sources are uncertain or subject to political changes. It’s important to note that the effectiveness of conditional cash transfers can vary depending on the specific design, implementation, and local context. Evaluating the impact and monitoring the outcomes of 4Ps is crucial to ensuring its success, before finally calling it off. There will never be a time to say that we no longer need it. Not until there is a slim divide between the rich and the poor. In my dreams. The post In my dreams appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Project Banca’ hailed as uplifting fishermen
Its contribution to revitalizing fishing communities of Cebu province following typhoon “Odette,” earned for the Aboitiz Foundation’s “Project Banca” the Outstanding CSR Project in Disaster Resilience at the League of Corporate Foundations CSR Guild Awards last 6 July. With its several business units, the Aboitiz Group successfully aided the recovery of fishing communities and families affected by the severe weather disturbance. Project Banca helped restore livelihoods by providing fisherfolk with the necessary equipment to resume fishing activities. Outstanding CSR “We are humbled and honored to receive the Outstanding CSR Project in Disaster Resilience award for Project Banca. Being able to uplift and have a positive impact on the lives of those affected by the calamities is already an achievement for us, but this recognition will further fuel our determination to continue supporting communities in their journey towards recovery and resilience,” Aboitiz Foundation president and COO Maribeth Marasigan said. Coinciding with the launch of “Project Banca” last 4 April 2022 was the transfer of brand new bancas to beneficiaries in Talisay City, Toledo City and Liloan Municipality, in Cebu. The event represented the collaborative efforts of the Aboitiz Foundation, the local government, and the resilient communities aiming to empower fishing communities and revive the local economy. The donations helped fishermen improve their catch. In just two months, the beneficiaries caught 645 kilograms of fish, which they sold for a total of P129,000. With their fishing activities back on track, the lives of 75 fisherfolk and their families significantly improved. The post Project Banca’ hailed as uplifting fishermen appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Global Month of Good: Fighting hunger, ensuring water access
Since 2011, Starbucks and its partners (employees) around the world have been dedicated to improving their local communities by celebrating the month of April as a time for community service and implementing a range of initiatives that positively impact the planet. With over 400 stores across the market, Starbucks Philippines uses its scale to address important issues such as hunger relief, reusability and access to clean drinking water. Starbucks Philippines’ ongoing partnership with Gawad Kalinga’s Kusina ng Kalinga program provides nutritious meals to children over a 120-day program. Last month, partner volunteers prepared meals for over 350 children from Catmon, Cebu, the company’s first community supported through Kusina ng Kalinga outside of Metro Manila. In addition, a new Global Community Impact Grant awarded in April from The Starbucks Foundation will enable Gawad Kalinga to provide nutritious meals to an additional 1,200 children, host family health and nutrition educational workshops and train 30 Community Food Farmers to build vegetable gardens in the Visayas region. In partnership with Grab and the Philippine FoodBank Foundation, the company expanded Starbucks FoodShare from Metro Manila to 13 additional stores in Cebu last month. Since the program launched in March 2022, partners connect with Grab drivers daily to deliver rescuable food from their stores to the Philippine FoodBank Foundation, which then distributes donations to communities in need of food assistance. Beneficiaries in Cebu include Balay Samaritano sa Sugbo Shelter, Don Bosco Provincial House and Our Lady of Lourdes Feeding Center. The company also had its second “Fill It Forward” Starbucks Venti Van stop at Alabang Town Center, Muntinlupa on 29 April. The initiative encouraged customers to participate in Starbucks FoodShare by purchasing a cookie for P50, the proceeds of which were then donated to various beneficiaries through the Philippine FoodBank Foundation. [caption id="attachment_140676" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Starbucks had its second ‘Fill It Forward’ Starbucks Venti Van stop at Alabang Town Center, Muntinlupa on 29 April.[/caption] Joining hands with Planet Water Foundation, a non-profit organization that focuses on alleviating the global water crisis, partner volunteers successfully built Starbucks Philippines’ fourth AquaTower at San Antonio Central School in San Antonio, Quezon on 4 April. Through this long-standing partnership, 1,800 community residents are able to easily access safe drinking water and handwashing stations through an AquaTower. The partners also led hygiene education activities with local students. Starbucks Philippines has been incentivizing customers to bring their own reusable cups through the Bring Your Own Reusable Cup program. Customers receive P10 off their order when they bring any personal reusable cups from all stores nationwide. In celebration of Global Month of Good, Starbucks Philippines added 5 Bonus Stars on top of the P10 discount for Starbucks Rewards Members. Customers enjoyed this additional promo for every transaction throughout the whole month of April. The post Global Month of Good: Fighting hunger, ensuring water access appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
NHA awards house and lot units to Taal volcano affected families
National Housing Authority General Manager Joeben Tai reported on Friday that he led the awarding of house and lot units to 142 families who were affected by the eruption of the Taal Volcano last January 2020 in a ceremony at the Talisay Plains Residences in Talisay, Batangas. Tai said he was joined by Senator Francis Tolentino, Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development Region IV-A Director Atty. Jann Roby Otero, Batangas 3rd District Representative Maria Theresa Collantes, Talisay Mayor Nestor Natanuan, NHA-Region IV Office Regional Manager Roderick Ibañez, and other NHA and local government officials. The affected families, Tai said in a statement, have been residing in different evacuation centers since the Taal volcano erupted three years ago. Of the 142 awardees, 82 families came from the Tumaway evacuation center; 17 from Sta. Maria and 43 from Motorpool. The Regional Office relocated these families on 24 April 2023, and shall continue transferring other families until September 2023. “More than three years have passed since these families became homeless due to a natural calamity. They have been living in the evacuation centers, and it is about time we moved them to a safe and resilient place, to a new house they can call their own,” Tai said. He assured other affected families that the NHA, with the support of the local government of Talisay, Batangas, is doubling its efforts to complete the construction of remaining housing units for immediate distribution to its intended beneficiaries. To the 142 families as awardees, Tai reminded them to take care of their homes and assured them of the quality of the housing units they received. "Sa ating pong mga benepisyaryo sa araw na ito, ang akin lang pong paalala sa inyo ay pagyamanin po ninyo ang inyong mga bagong tahanan. Ito po’y inyong alagaan at ingatan dahil sa haba po ng inyong paghihintay ay may masisilungan na po kayong ligtas at hindi na mangangamba pa sa mga darating na panahon," Tai told the receipients. Meanwhile, the NHA Talisay Plains Residences shall generate 448 housing units. Each unit comprises a 40-sqm lot area with community facilities such as a school, health center, tricycle terminal, market, and livelihood center. Under the Build Better and More Housing Program, Tai said NHA shall continue to coordinate with local government units to fast-track the provision of housing needs and uplift the living conditions of their respective constituents. The post NHA awards house and lot units to Taal volcano affected families appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Go lauds medical, dental missions in Pandan, Antique
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go expressed his appreciation to the local government of Antique, particularly Vice Governor Edgar “Ed” Denosta, for spearheading medical and dental missions aimed at providing vital healthcare services to various communities in the province. A medical and dental mission in Pandan town, which took place on 23 March, at the municipal gymnasium, brought together a dedicated team of doctors, nurses, dentists, and volunteers who offered their expertise and services to indigent residents. Similar medical and dental missions were also held in the towns of Sibalom last 23 February and in Belison last 17 May, where Go’s team extended additional assistance to indigents. Last April, Go personally attended the groundbreaking ceremony for the Super Health Centers in Sibalom and San Jose de Buenavista where he also aided indigent residents in both towns. He also conducted a monitoring visit of the Malasakit Center at the ASMGH. Another medical mission was held that month of April in Sibalom Public Plaza Covered Court. In his video message, Go, who chairs the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, said, "I am deeply grateful to the local government of Pandan and to Vice Governor Denosta for their initiative in organizing this medical and dental mission. Their commitment to improving the health and well-being of the people is truly commendable. By working together, we can achieve significant positive changes in our healthcare system.” On 26 May, Go’s office coordinated with the Department of Social Welfare and Development which provided additional financial assistance to 150 qualified individuals who also benefitted from the medical mission in Pandan town months ago. Go’s team previously provided masks, snacks, and shirts to the med mission beneficiaries. They also gave away cellular phones, shoes, and basketballs to select recipients. The senator then highlighted the importance of preventative care and encouraged the residents of Pandan to prioritize their health and to seek the services of the Malasakit Center at Angel Salazar Memorial General Hospital in San Jose de Buenavista should they need medical assistance from the government. Malasakit Centers bring together representatives from the DSWD, Department of Health, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. These one-stop shops aim to support impoverished patients in reducing their hospital bills to the least possible amount. “Mayroon na ho tayong 157 na Malasakit Center sa buong Pilipinas kasama na po ang Antique. Mayroon kayong Malasakit Center dito po sa Angel Salazar Memorial General Hospital, lapitan n’yo lang po ang Malasakit Center diyan,” encouraged Go, who is the principal author and sponsor of the Malasakit Centers Act. According to the DOH, the Malasakit Centers program has already assisted over seven million Filipinos nationwide. In line with his commitment to boost the development in the province, Go, as Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, likewise supported several projects, such as the purchase of multicabs in Laua-an, improvement of a public park in Belison, expansion of the water system in Libertad, construction of a bridge in Patnongon, purchase of an ambulance and construction of a flood control structure in San Jose, and construction of a covered court in San Remigio, among others. The post Go lauds medical, dental missions in Pandan, Antique appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Aboitiz’s ‘Byaheng Digiskarte’ campaign wins IABC Gold Quill Award
The Aboitiz Group won the prestigious 2023 International Association of Business Communicators Gold Quill Award of Merit for its groundbreaking corporate social responsibility initiative, “Byaheng Digiskarte.” The initiative was crafted to spur the recovery and growth of micro, small and medium enterprises and cooperatives adversely affected by the pandemic. “Byaheng Digiskarte” comes from “byahe,” meaning journey, and “digiskarte,” a portmanteau of “digital” and “diskarte,” meaning strategy. Leveraging digital tools and innovative business approaches, the pioneering project empowers beneficiaries to adapt swiftly to an ever-evolving business environment. This included onboarding members to digital platforms so that they could start online businesses. Going beyond economic revitalization, “Byaheng Digiskarte” also aims to foster financial inclusion by encouraging the unbanked segment of the Filipino population to open their first-ever bank accounts through the Aboitiz-led Union Bank of the Philippines. Renowned globally as a community of accomplished communication professionals, the IABC confers its highly coveted Gold Quill Awards to acknowledge excellence in strategic communication. The Gold Quill Blue Ribbon Panel evaluators, made up of communication experts boasting decades of experience, reviewed 395 entries from 16 countries against the IABC Gold Quill Award criteria and Seven-Point Scale of Excellence. The Gold Quill Awards reception will be held in Toronto, Canada on 6 June 2023, where the Aboitiz Group’s “Byaheng Digiskarte” program will be recognized among exceptional communication works from around the world. Said one of the judges: “The entry was easy to understand and the opportunity, audiences and goals were easy to follow. It is apparent the team put thought into the different audiences, how to reach them and how to reinforce the key messaging.” Praising the Aboitiz Group’s exceptional work, another judge added, “You demonstrated a strategic mindset in showcasing a well-executed project that not only accomplished but exceeded its stated objectives during a challenging pandemic. Great work!” [caption id="attachment_135101" align="aligncenter" width="525"] After planting and harvesting their own farm produce, farmers and agripreneurs were provided equipment by the Aboitiz Foundation to process food products such as pickles, tea and jam.[/caption] As the Aboitiz Group advances on its “Great Transformation” to become the Philippines’ first “techglomerate,” “Byaheng Digiskarte” reflects this commitment to innovation, digital transformation and drive to positively impact surrounding businesses and communities. By leveraging technology to uplift businesses and promote financial inclusion, the Aboitiz Group sets the stage for a future where technology and innovation are at the forefront of operations. “This project is close to our hearts as we believe in the power of innovation to transform lives. We saw the need to bridge the digital divide in underserved communities, particularly in the area of digital literacy. Receiving the Quill Award is a great honor, but it is also a reminder of the responsibility we have to continue making a positive impact in the communities we serve. We take this recognition as an inspiration to do even more and to do it better,” Aboitiz Foundation president and chief operating officer Maribeth Marasigan said. Since its launch in April 2021, Byaheng Digiskarte has made significant headway, involving extensive visits to remote areas across the Philippines, collaborative consultations and partnerships with government agencies and private enterprises. Through mentoring sessions and the provision of cutting-edge tools, this initiative has assisted farmers and agripreneurs affected by the pandemic, leading to income growth. As of December 2022, over 127 cooperatives with nearly 10,000 members have received comprehensive training, which includes digital marketing, equipment handling, reputation building and financial management, among other vital skills. Two cooperatives, comprising over a thousand members, have successfully digitized their internal coop processes, while 19 cooperatives with more than 6,000 members have ventured into new cooperative businesses. “Byaheng Digiskarte” has also facilitated almost a thousand beneficiaries in opening their first bank accounts with UnionBank, solidifying the Aboitiz Group’s commitment to providing accessible financial services. The post Aboitiz’s ‘Byaheng Digiskarte’ campaign wins IABC Gold Quill Award appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Upskilling and Empowering Local Farmers
The SM Foundation Inc. has taken another step in its mission to enhance the agriculture and entrepreneurial skills of farmers, by recently launching the Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan on Sustainable Agriculture Program across various locations in Calabarzon. Beginning with its launch in Padre Garcia, Batangas on 13 April 2023, the program has since been extended to Silang, Cavite, Batangas City, San Pablo, Laguna, and Calamba City. SMFI is also set to provide free agri-skills training to local farmers in other parts of the region to help other beneficiaries uplift their families and communities. [caption id="attachment_135065" align="aligncenter" width="525"] KSK farmers join the training in Batangas[/caption] The local farmer-beneficiaries will undergo a two-phased program, spearheaded by SMFI‘s partner school Moca Family Farm RLearning Center, Inc. The program kicked off with an immersive 14-week training program designed to equip participants with essential skills and knowledge on agriculture. The modular training curriculum covers topics on the latest agri-technology updates, capacity-building, financial literacy, product development and market opportunities. Through these comprehensive modules, KSK-SAP aims to empower and enhance farmers’ agricultural practices and explore avenues for sustainable growth. As a highlight of the program's first phase, KSK-SAP farmers will join the SM Sunday Market, a collaborative initiative between the SM Foundation and SM Supermalls that offers trainees a valuable opportunity to showcase their agricultural produce and gain first-hand experience in institutional selling. Through this market opportunity, participants can not only generate income but also cultivate their expertise and experience in the sales and marketing aspects of their agri-businesses. [caption id="attachment_135064" align="aligncenter" width="525"] KSK farmer-trainees and partners in Laguna.[/caption] To prepare for the second phase of the program, SMFI will assist the farmers in formalizing their respective groups. To boost their earning capactiy and contribution to economic growth, the foundation will support them in creating a sustainable and profitable farming community through the assistance of partner agencies. KSK-SAP originated from the vision of SMFI’s founder Henry “Tatang“ Sy Sr. to establish a sustainable initiative that would uplift the farming skills, food security and livelihood know-how of low-income Filipino farmers. Over the years, the program has evolved into a comprehensive training program that generates opportunities for skills development, employment and livelihood. Since its inception in 2007, KSK-SAP has helped more than 28,000 marginalized farmers from rural and urban areas across the country, fueling their entrepreneurial and farming capabilities. As a result, some of the program's graduates have turned into seasonal suppliers for the SM group and other local markets. SM Foundation’s KSK-SAP is conducted in partnership with SM Supermalls, TESDA, DA, DSWD, DoST, DTI, DoT and partner farm schools. The post Upskilling and Empowering Local Farmers appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
How ready are we to manage disasters?
A recent report from the World Meteorological Organization warned that global temperatures are expected to rise to record levels in the next five years, triggered by greenhouse gases and the recurring El Niño. With the current hot weather already a bane to many, and occasional thundershowers offering temporary relief, the scenario in the not-too-distant future looms as a threat more than a warning, as the chances of having the hottest days on record within five years appear to be a dead certain reality. “A warming El Niño is expected to develop in the coming months, and this will combine with human-induced climate change to push global temperatures into uncharted territory,” said WMO Secretary-General Pro. Peterri Taalas. “This will have far-reaching repercussions for health, food security, water management, and the environment. We need to be prepared.” Despite the grim announcement, Taalas offers a ray of hope. We still have time to prevent the inevitable from happening; he provides to soothe doomsayers. This is not an impossible situation and is not irreversible, he adds. Strengthening weather and climate services to protect people from extreme weather conditions and new greenhouse gas monitoring will be on top of the agenda of matters to be discussed during the forthcoming WMO Conference scheduled from 22 May to 2 June. For our part, how ready are we to handle disasters of this sort? Are we equipped to face or institute disaster-reduction/mitigation efforts? There has been a lot of discussion on making a paradigm shift from reactive to proactive in the matter of responding to disasters, including floods, earthquakes, and droughts, among others. The government and the private sector have stressed that responses should be immediate and efficient, and emergency relief immediately followed by the rebuilding of destroyed houses or infrastructure or rehabilitation and livelihoods restored to the affected victims. The World Conference on Disaster Reduction mapped out a framework from 2005-2015 that adopted “five priorities for action: 1. Ensure that disaster risk reduction is a national and local priority with a strong institutional basis for implementation; 2. Identify, assess and monitor disaster risks and enhance early warning; 3. Use knowledge, innovation, and education to build a culture of safety and resilience at all levels; 4. Reduce the underlying risk factors; and 5. Strengthen disaster preparedness for effective response at all levels.” Considering that the Philippines ranks first in the world regarding risks associated with natural disasters and is “host” to an average of 20 typhoons annually, six of which are destructive according to a World Risk Index report, have we used these recommendations? Only a few years ago, five Northern Luzon town mayors were facing charges in the Office of the Ombudsman after they were found missing from their posts as Typhoon Ompong ravaged most parts of the islands, causing deaths and destruction in the aftermath. Many victims of past calamities continue to live in makeshift dwellings as they cannot rebuild their homes far from their workplaces and schools for their children. There is a never-ending line of displaced people seeking food or ayuda and a mad scramble for the same caused by disorderly or ill-maintained distribution systems. Donations are being ripped off and do not go to the intended beneficiaries. Instead of being disaster-prepared, we react as if these calamities are happening for the first time. In contrast, look at how neighboring Bangladesh, another developing nation in 6th place on the Global Risk Index, deals with the catastrophes that come their way. Its government has boosted community-focused risk reduction efforts, decentralized disaster management, developed partnerships, and enhanced community resilience by working together to reduce their vulnerability to the elements and participating in risk-reduction activities. Our local government executives should look up to their Bangladesh counterparts and learn a thing or two, reviewing their original mandates and responsibilities to their constituents. Old systems that did not work must be discarded or restructured according to the needs of the times. And the time to act is now before it’s too late. The post How ready are we to manage disasters? appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Comelec disqualifies Legazpi councilor
A member of Legazpi City, Albay’s Sangguniang Panglungsod on Tuesday received a disqualification ruling from the Commission on Elections over a two-day cash assistance payout to tricycle drivers which was held before the national and local elections last year. The SP member — identified as Al Barizo who placed fifth in last year’s polls — has been disqualified by the Comelec Second Division over violation of public spending as stated in Section 261(v)(2) of the Omnibus Election Code. Part of the Katipunan ng Nagkakaisang Pilipino slate, he is party-mates with former Albay Governor Noel Rosal and her wife, Legazpi City Mayor Carmen Geraldine Rosal — both implicated in the cash assistance activity ahead of the polls. Barizo and the Rosals are facing three individual petitions by a certain Joseph Armogila, a defeated candidate in the same councilor race that Barizo was also part of. The petition filed against Barizo in 11 April last year aimed to disqualify him from the race over vote buying or Section 68(a) and (e) of the OEC. However, the Second Division ruled out vote buying due to insufficient evidence that Barizo directly took part in the distribution based on text messages and Facebook posts about the event which was used as basis in the petition. “Even if he is not proven to have had a hand in the illegal release or distribution of public funds during the prohibited period, he surely was a prominent figure in the expenditure of the said funds when those were handed out to the tricycle driver-beneficiaries,” the poll body’s resolution read. It also indicated that Barizo argued that the cash assistance was “a continuation of the previous batches of cash assistance” since August 2021. The Rosals also previously defended the payout, saying that it was part of the then pandemic response subsidy known as “Bayanihan 1.” The post Comelec disqualifies Legazpi councilor appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Free quality healthcare for Naga City
Medical missions have evolved through time. Alongside improving access to healthcare services for underserved communities, it has become an avenue for spreading awareness about preventive healthcare and promoting healthy lifestyles. Watsons and SM Foundation have long strived to encourage health literacy and bring free quality healthcare closer to Filipinos throughout the country. The two once again joined hands for a medical mission at the PAGCOR Evacuation Center in Naga City on 26-27 April 2023. This event followed the first medical mission of the Watsons and SM Foundation held in Laoag City early this year. The two-day event brought medical care to over 1,200 patients and over 4,000 services to beneficiaries, including medical consultations, sugar tests, cholesterol tests, uric acid tests, bone scanning, hair analysis, skin analysis and free medicines. The SM Foundation Mobile Clinic also provided X-rays and ECG tests to the residents of Naga City. Meanwhile, an audiometry examination was added to the diagnostic tests on the second day of the medical mission. Joining Watsons and SM Foundation in mounting the initiative were the DMIRIE Foundation, University of Nueva Caceres-College of Nursing, Dermplus Trading Incorporated, Bewell Corporation, Association of Bicol Business Students-Ateneo de Naga University, the local government unit of Naga City and the Metro Naga Development Council. The post Free quality healthcare for Naga City appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Tax Amnesty Act extension now moving
A proposed law that seeks to extend the deadline of application for estate tax amnesty for another two years has moved forward in the House of Representatives. The House committee on ways and means, chaired by Albay Rep. Joey Salceda, adjourned its deliberations on Tuesday with the approval of House Bill 7409 after garnering 31 pro-votes from its members. The measure, filed on 2 March, seeks to extend the Tax Amnesty Act, or Republic Act 11213, from 15 June this year to 14 June 2025 to provide taxpayers with economic relief and the opportunity to settle estate tax obligations, which procedure was hampered by the Covid-19 pandemic’s multiple lockdowns. Speaker Martin Romualdez and his nephew, Senior Deputy Speaker Sandro Marcos of Ilocos Norte, are among the bill’s proponents, with three other House leaders. Salceda, during the deliberation, stressed the significance of the bill’s passage, explaining that the provision of additional time is necessary as many families have not yet settled the estates of their deceased relatives. “An estate tax is a tax on the right of the deceased person to transmit the estate to lawful heirs and beneficiaries. RA 11213 was passed to provide taxpayers immunity from the payment of estate taxes until 15 June 2021. However, the pandemic hampered the settlement of estates, which to begin with, is inherently challenged by family sensitivities,” said the chairman. “To give people more time to settle estates, we extended the estate tax amnesty from 15 June 2021, to 14 June 2023, by enacting RA 11569 last Congress. We also streamlined the procedure by removing the requirement of proof of settlement in the payment of the estate tax under the same law. Now that the extended deadline — 14 June 2023 — is upon us, we are informed that this tax amnesty is yet to be optimized.” RA 11213, signed on 14 February 2019 by then-President Rodrigo Duterte, provides taxpayers with a one-time opportunity to settle their tax obligations through an estate amnesty program that offers reasonable tax relief to estates with outstanding estate tax liabilities. On 30 June, he signed RA 11569, which amended Section 6 of RA 11213, extending the estate tax amnesty until 14 June 2023. However, proponents of the bill are advocating for a two-year extension to account for those still struggling to meet the documentary requirements due to the pandemic rage. Meanwhile, during the proceeding, Nueva Ecija Rep. Ria Vergara motioned that a provision stating that heirs who received a donated estate worth P1 million or less no longer have to pay the 6 percent donor’s tax to be included in the proposal, which Salceda later approved. People seeking amnesty under the current system are expected to pay tax at a rate of 6% based on the decedent’s total net estate (or net undeclared estate if a previously filed estate tax return) at the time of death. HB 7842, filed by AGRI Rep. Wilbert Lee on 11 April, also pushes for a two-year extension of the estate tax amnesty period, but it has yet to be referred to Salceda’s panel for deliberation. Last week, Deputy Speaker Ralph Recto urged President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to certify the bill as urgent, claiming this move will make people “save billions” while the government will “earn billions.” The post Tax Amnesty Act extension now moving appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Go supervises construction of new Super Health Center in Saguday
On Saturday, 22 April, Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography Senator Christopher “Bong” Go personally inspected the site of a Super Health Center currently under construction in Saguday, Quirino. Go’s visit is part of his ongoing efforts to bring government services closer to communities and promote accessible healthcare services in the grassroots, especially in rural areas. The senator was accompanied by Philippine Charity and Sweepstakes Office Chair Junie Cua and local officials led by Governor Dakila “Dax” Cua, Congresswoman Midy Cua, Saguday Mayor Jerry Pagbilao, and Vice Mayor Ric Cadiente, among others. “Inilapit po natin ‘yung serbisyo medikal sa ating mga kababayan. Sa kakaikot ko po sa buong Pilipinas, napakarami pong munisipyo na walang sariling health center,” cited Go in his speech. “‘Yung mga buntis, nanganganak na lang po sa tricycle, sa jeepney (dahil) sa sobrang layo ng mga ospital sa kanilang bayan. Kaya natutuwa po ako na isa po ang Saguday sa napili po na paglagyan po ng Super Health Center. Para po ito sa inyo, para po ito sa Pilipino. So gamitin n’yo po ito,” he expressed. Super Health Centers are improved versions of polyclinics that offer basic health services, including 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 center and telemedicine, where remote diagnosis and treatment of patients will be done. As identified by the Department of Health, other locations for the Super Health Centers in the province are in the towns of Aglipay and Nagtipunan. Through the concerted efforts of lawmakers, adequate funding has been allocated for the establishment of 307 Super Health Centers in 2022 and 322 more in 2023. “Natutuwa po ako na patapos na at pinalaki, pina-expand po ni Mayor (Pagbilao) ang inyong Super Health Center. At hindi lang po basta Super Health Center, talagang pinalaki para madagdagan pa po ang kapasidad ng inyong Super Health Center. Makakatulong po ito sa mga mahihirap nating mga kababayan,” Go remarked. The senator also highlighted Malasakit Centers nationwide, which are one-stop shops for the government's medical assistance programs. He is the principal author and sponsor of the Malasakit Centers Act that institutionalized the Malasakit Centers program. The 157 centers have so far assisted over seven million particularly poor and indigent patients across the country, according to the DOH. Go then led a relief operation at Lakas Bayan Center in Saguday where he and his team gave away grocery packs, masks, vitamins, snacks, and shirts to 500 struggling residents. They also provided bicycles, cellular phones, shoes, watches, and balls for basketball and volleyball to select beneficiaries. Meanwhile, the Department of Social Welfare and Development extended financial assistance to help the residents with their daily necessities. “Para po akong pingpong, lipad dito, lipad doon. Kahapon po sa Calbayog (City) sa Samar, tumulong (kami) sa mga nasunugan. Ngayon, nandito naman ako sa Luzon. Noong isang linggo po, sa Mindanao. Halos ganito po, Mindanao, Visayas, Luzon (tapos) balik na naman ako ng Visayas, balik na naman ng Mindanao. Para makatulong sa kapwa ko Pilipino,” shared Go. “Iyan po ang pinangako ko sa inyo at hindi ko po matiis na nakaupo lang sa opisina habang ‘yung mga kababayan nating naghihirap ay nangangailangan ng tulong. Tutulong po ako sa abot ng aking makakaya. Bukas po ang aking tanggapan para sa inyong lahat,” he asserted. “Basta kaya ng oras at katawan ko, pupuntahan ko kayo para makatulong sa abot ng aking makakaya, masolusyunan ang inyong mga problema, marinig ang inyong mga hinaing, at makapag-iwan ng ngiti sa oras ng inyong pagdadalamhati,” he assured. As Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, Go also supported several road improvements, construction of a multipurpose building, installation of solar street lights, and acquisition of mini dump trucks in the town. Earlier that day, Go was in the town of Cabarroguis where he joined the 6th Quirino Motorismo event, monitored the operations of the Malasakit Center at Quirino Province Medical Center, and led another relief operation for more indigents. The post Go supervises construction of new Super Health Center in Saguday appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go aids indigents in Agusan del Sur
The Office of Senator Bong Go conducted separate relief activities for indigent communities in La Paz and Talacogon towns in Agusan del Sur. The distributions are part of the senator's efforts to help address the needs of disadvantaged Filipinos in the country. During the relief activities, Go's outreach staff extended aid to a total of 300 underprivileged residents at the Talacogon municipal gym and La Paz municipal hall. The assistance provided included shirts, masks, vitamins, and snacks. Additionally, select beneficiaries were given caps, shoes, cellular phones, as well as balls for basketball and volleyball. Moreover, the Department of Social Welfare and Development sent a team to provide financial aid to the residents through its Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation program. Go, who chairs the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, then urged the beneficiaries to prioritize their well-being and follow basic health protocols. He encouraged those with health concerns to seek assistance from the government through the Malasakit Center located at Democrito O. Plaza Memorial Hospital in Prosperidad. The Malasakit Centers Act of 2019 was principally authored and sponsored by Go in the Senate. These centers are one-stop shops that streamline access to medical assistance programs offered by different government agencies such as the DSWD, Department of Health, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. The senator also highlighted the construction of Super Health Centers in five municipalities in Agusan del Sur. These municipalities include Esperanza, Bayugan, Sibagat, Santa Josefa, and Trento. More Super Health Centers will be strategically located in particularly far-flung communities, as assessed by DOH, to ensure that Filipinos have more convenient access to basic health services, such as database management, out-patient care, birthing facilities, isolation areas, and diagnostic services such as laboratory tests, x-rays, and ultrasound. Through the concerted efforts of lawmakers, the Health Facilities Enhancement Program of the DOH has adequate funding for the establishment of 307 Super Health Centers in 2022 and 322 more in 2023. Go, as Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, has been actively supporting the province of Agusan del Sur. Among his efforts include securing necessary funds for various infrastructure projects in the province, including the construction or concreting of local roads in Bayugan City, Bunawan, Esperanza, La Paz, San Luis, and Veruela; construction of multipurpose buildings in Bayugan City and San Luis; construction of evacuation centers in Loreto and Talacogon; construction of riverbank protection structures for the Ihawan River in Loreto; improvement of the Adlayan Riverbank in San Francisco; installation of reinforced concrete pipe culvert with pavement widening in Trento; and purchase and installation of solar street lights in Esperanza. Other major projects he supported are the construction of a new public market and slaughterhouse in Bunawan, the development of the Sibagat public park, the acquisition of ambulances for the local governments of La Paz and San Luis, and the acquisition of dump trucks for the local governments of San Francisco and San Luis. On 18 April, Go’s team also assisted struggling residents in Santa Josefa and Trento towns. On 19 and 20 April, his office likewise mounted a series of relief activities for underserved communities in Esperanza, Prosperidad, Sibagat, and Bayugan City. The post Bong Go aids indigents in Agusan del Sur appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go inspects SHC, aids indigents in Santa Margarita, Samar
Sen. Bong Go, Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, personally inspected the ongoing construction of a Super Health Center in Barangay Monbon, Santa Margarita, Samar on Friday, 21 April. After the inspection, Go proceeded to personally spearhead a relief operation at the municipal gymnasium for 1,000 disadvantaged residents. The senator and his team distributed grocery packs, vitamins, masks, snacks, and shirts. They also gave away shoes, cellular phones, watches, bicycles, umbrellas, and balls for basketball and volleyball to select beneficiaries. Meanwhile, the Department of Social Welfare and Development provided financial assistance to the residents. Earlier that day, Go was in Calbayog City where he also assisted fire victims and indigents. The Super Health Center aims to provide basic health services to the residents of the town and nearby areas. It will offer basic health services, such as database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray and ultrasound), pharmacy and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services will be eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service, oncology centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation center and telemedicine, where remote diagnosis and treatment of patients will be done. “Mga kababayan ko, nandirito po ako ngayon para po sa inspection ng Santa Margarita Super Health Center. Ang Super Health Center is a medium type of polyclinic, pwedeng manganak (ang mga) buntis. Pwede ang dental, laboratory, pagbabakuna, (at) isolation,” explained Go in his speech. “Ilapit natin ang serbisyo medikal sa ating mga kababayan. Iyan po ang Super Health Center. Mayroon po tayong itatayong Super Health Center dito sa inyong lugar,” he added. Go lauded the efforts of the Department of Health and the local government of Samar, led by Governor Sharee Ann Tan, Congressman Stephen James “Jimboy” Tan, and Sta. Margarita Mayor Felix Roma Panganoron, among others, for working together and ensuring basic healthcare is available through initiatives such as the Super Health Center. DOH, as lead implementing agency, has also identified three more strategic locations for the Super Health Centers in the province, namely, Sta. Rita, Calbiga and San Jorge. Through the concerted efforts of lawmakers, the Health Facilities Enhancement Program of the DOH has adequate funding for the establishment of 307 Super Health Centers in 2022 and 322 more in 2023. The post Bong Go inspects SHC, aids indigents in Santa Margarita, Samar appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»