Soldier sacrifices life
in armed encounter, protects civilians against communist-terrorism
By
DPAO, 8ID PA
May 15, 2024
CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan
City – A military personnel from the 3rd Infantry Battalion,
Philippine Army was killed following an armed encounter with the
members of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in Barangay Gayondato,
San Jorge, Samar on May 14, 2024.
Corporal Reycon Remedio
who hails from Carigara, Leyte was fatally hit on the left side of
his head during a 45-minute firefight. Another soldier was also
injured.
The armed encounter ensued
between troops of the 3rd Infantry Battalion (3IB) and remnants of
the Sub-Regional Committee (SRC) Browser, Eastern Visayas Regional
Party Committee (EVRPC). Residents had reported the presence of CTG
members in the hinterlands, prompting military action.
Responding to the
information, the troops moved to drive away the armed group.
However, as they approached the area, they were fired upon by the
CTGs resulting in the encounter.
The 3IB troops were in the
area to facilitate the delivery of basic services through the Mobile
Community Support Sustainment Program (MCSSP) to the community.
Lieutenant Colonel Fritz
Montemor, the commanding officer of the 3IB, condemned the continued
violence perpetrated by the CTGs in Samar.
"Our troops were deployed
to the community to facilitate the delivery of basic services to
improve socio-economic development in the area. The people want to
live in peace, free from harassment and intimidation. Let us give
peace a chance," said Lt. Col. Montemor.
Major General Camilo Z.
Ligayo, commander of the 8ID, expressed his deepest sympathy to the
family and friends of Cpl. Remedio.
"It is unfortunate that
another life was lost in the pursuit of peace. He offered his young
life protecting the residents of Gayondato to attain lasting peace
in Eastern Visayas. This will not deter our resolve to continue our
sworn duty to ensure the safety and security of our communities.
There will be no let-up in our operations. I further call on the
remaining rebels to lay down their arms, avail themselves of the
government’s peace program, and reunite with their families to live
a peaceful life," Maj. Gen. Ligayo stressed.
BotiCARD opens its 19th
branch in San Pablo City
From
L-R: CARD Bank Vice President for Operations Ms. Glenda
Magpantay, BotiCARD AVP for Admin & Finance Ms. Celeste B.
Arceo, CMPMI President Ms. Maida Decano, CARD, Inc. Regional
Director Ms. Eva Macalindug, CARD Astro President Ms. Maria
Gracia Contreras, BotiCARD President Ms. Rosenda Aquino,
BotiCARD Cluster Manager Ms. Jessica de Pio, BotiCARD
Operation Director Ms. Florife T. Reynido, alongside Rev.
Mou Monterola, spearheaded the grand opening of BotiCARD San
Jose branch. |
By
EDRIAN B. BANANIA
May 10, 2024
SAN PABLO CITY –
BotiCARD, Inc. opened its doors to serve the community of Barangay
San Jose in San Pablo City, Laguna on May 8, 2024. This expansion
aligns with the pharmacy’s goal of reaching more communities to
provide access to quality health and wellness products and services.
“In line with CARD MRI’s
mission to eradicate poverty, we firmly believe that breaking the
poverty cycle includes improving the health and wellness of people
by providing them with the quality products and services they need,”
said BotiCARD President Rosenda Aquino.
While promoting generic
medicine as the pharmacy’s primary mission, people living in the
area now have easy access to affordable generic medicine, basic
health supplies, hygiene products, and selected supplements. Some
branded products are also available.
“With this branch opening,
people can now purchase generic medicines with the same dose,
quality, and effectiveness as their brand-name counterparts,” Aquino
explains.
Consequently, free medical
consultation, dental extraction, blood pressure monitoring, and
other freebies are also provided for those who attended the branch
opening.
Aside from providing
affordable medicines, each BotiCARD pharmacy strategically
positioned a clinic to ensure accessible health and wellness
services. Through these clinics, doctors and nurses from CARD MRI
offer free medical services under the Microfinance and Health
Protection Program (MaHP).
The newly launched
BotiCARD branch is located at Purok 2, Barangay San Jose, San Pablo
City, Laguna.
BotiCARD is a member
institution of CARD Mutually Reinforcing Institutions (CARD MRI), a
group of institutions sharing the same goal and objective of poverty
eradication and improving the lives of Filipino families.
Today, BotiCARD Inc. has
19 pharmacies and serves more than 1.9 million clients nationwide.
Save the Children aids
El Niño-impacted farming families in Samar
Press Release
May 9, 2024
QUEZON CITY - The
worsening drought and dry conditions in Western Samar are
significantly affecting the education and welfare of children in
farming households. Save the Children Philippines is responding by
offering conditional cash transfers and introducing
climate-resilient livelihood options to aid approximately 200
farming families impacted by the El Niño phenomenon.
According to the
Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Report, more
than 800,000 families in about 5,000 barangays across 14 regions are
facing agricultural losses and water shortages. This crisis is
impacting around 3.6 million Filipinos, including children, due to
heatwaves, droughts, and dry conditions. The economic fallout from
agricultural losses has reached P6 billion, with rice, the main
crop, accounting for about P3 billion in damages.
Inadequate water for
farming compromises soil health, making crops more susceptible to
pests and diseases, which in turn drives up food consumption rates.
Meanwhile, escalating prices of vital farming resources like
electricity and packaging materials add to the challenges. Livestock
face heightened risks of contagious diseases, potentially triggering
outbreaks like African swine fever, possibly exacerbated by
prolonged drought conditions.
The worries of farming
families in Western Visayas are evident. Teresita Abides, a
46-year-old mother whose family depends heavily on rice farming,
expressed her concerns: “Before, our two-hectare farm used to
produce around 70 sacks of rice, but because of the impact of El
Niño, we lost everything.” Teresita mentioned that her children had
to halt their schooling to help their father cope with the
difficulties on the farm caused by the drought. This circumstance
has deprived the children of their educational and recreational
opportunities.
In response to El Niño's
impact on children and families, Save the Children Philippines
partnered with the Western Samar Development Foundation (WESADEF)
Inc. to distribute an initial conditional cash grant installment of
P6,000 to 200 farming households in Western Samar.
The purpose of these
grants is to assist families in establishing livelihoods that are
resilient to climate change. Additionally, each household received
five drought-resistant seeds for cultivation in their backyard
gardens, ensuring a sustainable food supply capable of enduring dry
seasons.
“Families reliant on
farming are facing mounting challenges due to the scorching heat,
affecting their ability to support their children's health,
survival, and education,” stated Faisah Ali, Humanitarian Manager of
Save the Children Philippines.
Apart from providing
financial aid and seeds, the 200 farming families engaged in
technical training sessions centered on animal husbandry, vegetable
cultivation, and crop production. Ali emphasized, "We developed
these sessions to encourage sustainable agricultural practices and
improve livelihood opportunities for families."
Teresita Abides expressed
optimism that the cash assistance would alleviate financial concerns
and pave the way for a better livelihood, despite El Niño's
challenges. “I appreciate the assistance because it helps us
endure,” Abides shared. “We recently bought a pig, which we plan to
raise and eventually sell.”
Through its Generation
Hope Campaign, Save the Children Philippines actively advocates for
climate adaptation measures to safeguard the well-being of children
affected by climate crises.
Rex Abrigo, Environment
and Climate Change Advisor at Save the Children Philippines
emphasized that climate challenges disproportionately impact
children, despite their minimal responsibility for causing climate
change. Children endure the most severe consequences of these
challenges. This disparity highlights the urgent need for proactive
measures to protect vulnerable communities, especially children,
from the effects of climate change.
ROTC cadets undergoes
Regional Annual Administrative and Tactical Inspection in Biliran
By
93rd Infantry Battalion, 8ID PA
May 9, 2024
BILIRAN – About 300
cadets and cadettes from the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC)
unit of Biliran Province State University, undergoes Regional Annual
Administrative and Tactical Inspection (RAATI) held at the Oval of
Biliran Province State University (BIPSU) yesterday, 8 May 2024.
The 93rd Infantry Bantay
Kapayapaan Battalion attended the Regional Annual Administrative and
Tactical Inspection (RAATI) represented by 2LT ERWIN T ROLOYAN (INF)
PA together with Sgt Efren Tenedero (Inf) PA and Cpl Micheal Rivera
as part of the RAATI team who will participate the scoring of the
ROTC cadettes at Biliran Province State University (BIPSU). The
program started with a courtesy call to the University president Dr.
VICTOR C. CAÑEZO JR., CHRP, and together with Mr. BENEDICTO G.
BATISTIS, MAIE, NSTP Director, they welcomed the RAATI team headed
by LTC BENJY ROBERTO G FERRERAS MNSA PA (RES) COMMANDER, 804RRIB,
chairman of RAATI TEAM together with MAJ ALTON V DURANO PA (RES) who
led the turnover and acceptance of the unit color.
The inspection aims to
test the units’ degree of administrative efficiency, training
management, proficiency, and quality of training attained by the
Corps of Cadets.
These includes
Administrative Inspection, Ceremonial Parade, Rank Inspection,
Operation Order writing, Map Reading, Assembly and Disassembly of
M16 Rifle and Cal. 45 pistol, Company Drill, Method of Instructions,
Small Unit Tactics and Disaster Response and Rescue Operations. This
also intends to test the operational readiness of ROTC unit and
allow the students to experience the real meaning of basic soldiery.
DAR-EV chief directs
MARPOs to take the lead in SPLIT implementation
The
Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) holds first quarter
assessment on the implementation of the Support to
Parcelization of Lands for Individual Titling (SPLIT)
project in Western Samar, Eastern Samar and Northern Samar.
(ENGR. SERKIN BALEROS) |
By
MARVIN R. ORQUIOLA
May 8, 2024
MARABUT, Samar –
“MARPOs should be at the forefront of the field validation process!”
This was the stern order
of Atty. Robert Anthony Yu, Regional Director of the Department of
Agrarian Reform (DAR) in Eastern Visayas, to the municipal agrarian
reform program officers (MARPOs) during the first quarter assessment
of the Support to Parcelization of Lands for Individual Titling
(SPLIT) project for the provinces of Western Samar, Eastern Samar
and Northern Samar held on April 17 to 19 this year in this town.
He explained that though
field validation teams (FVTs) were hired to conduct the validation
process, MARPOs should closely supervise them and take the lead.
Yu issued this order in
reaction to the accomplishments of the above-mentioned provinces.
Though Northern Samar
accomplished 116.55 percent or 2,588.65 hectares of its
2,221-hectare target in field validation for the first quarter,
Western Samar was just able to accomplish 47.97 percent or 1,868.08
hectares of its 3,894-hectare first quarter target. Eastern Samar
was also short by almost three percent as they were only able to
meet 97.11 percent of its 3,499-hectare target by validating
3,397.98 hectares.
Since the project is
expected to be completed by the end of 2024, Yu emphasized the
significant role of the provincial and municipal implementers in
achieving the regional target, particularly in field validation,
which is crucial in the effective implementation of the SPLIT
project since it is a pre-requisite in the generation of individual
titles.
He reiterated the
directive of Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado Estrella III to
complete the validation of landholdings by the second quarter,
except for Leyte, which has been given an extension until the end of
the third quarter, considering the large volume of landholdings to
be validated.
Meanwhile, in the
registration of the electronically-generated individual titles
(e-titles), Northern Samar accomplished 69.43 percent of its
517-hectare first quarter target with 212 e-titles registered
involving 168 agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs).
Western Samar accomplished
30.49 percent of its 106-hectare target with 21 e-titles registered
involving 16 ARBs, while Eastern Samar reported an 8.89 percent
accomplishment against its 721-hectare target for the first quarter
with 68 e-titles registered involving 62 ARBs.
SPLIT project, which is
funded by the World Bank, subdivides landholdings covered by
collective Certificates of Land Ownershp Award (CLOAs) issued under
the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) for the eventual
issuance of individual CLOA to improve land tenure security and
strengthen property rights of ARBs.
KARAPATAN denounces
freezing of Leyte NGO’s bank accounts
Press Release
May 7, 2024
QUEZON CITY – Human rights
alliance KARAPATAN decried the recent freezing of the bank accounts
of a multi-awarded development non-government organization based in
Leyte province.
In an order dated May 2,
2024, the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) ordered the Tacloban
branches of PSBank and Metropolitan Bank to freeze the accounts of
the Leyte Center for Development Inc. (LCDe), as well as the
personal bank accounts of its executive director and members of its
staff.
LCDe is a 36-year old
development NGO based in Palo, Leyte that has won numerous awards
for assisting poor and marginalized communities in Eastern Visayas,
especially in disaster preparedness and response. Its funds are
sourced from private donors and at least seven countries, and it has
partnered with 23 local government units in Samar and Leyte.
According to the AMLC, its
freeze order stems from alleged findings that LCDe executive
director Jazmin Jerusalem and her staff had been providing funds to
the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and the New People's
Army (NPA). The AMLC also claimed that Jerusalem and the LCDe staff
had earlier been designated as a "terrorist group/individual,”
though no public information is available attesting to this
designation.
"This is yet another
example of the arbitrariness and anti-poor character of the
Anti-Terrorism Council's (ATC) designation of persons or groups as
'terrorist' or 'terrorist financiers','' said Karapatan secretary
general Cristina Palabay. "This time, the ATC is focusing on LCDe
which has long been providing much- needed assistance to the most
impoverished rural communities of Samar and Leyte and had many times
been acclaimed for it's work, even by the Department of National
Defense," added Palabay.
“By freezing its accounts,
the ATC has effectively sabotaged the LCDe 's projects in these
communities and deprived them of the services that the LCDe has been
providing,” she said.
"As in other cases of this
nature," said Palabay, "the AMLC based its unjust designation and
freeze orders on the perjured testimonies of a so-called rebel
returnee who claimed to have founded the LCDe in 2002, when the LCDe
has, in fact, been registered with the Securities and Exchange
Commission (SEC) since 1988."
"This case also amply
demonstrates the real dangers of red-tagging and how it swiftly
leads to terror-tagging," said Palabay.
"Jerusalem has long been
the subject of red-tagging and harassment by state forces in the
course of her activism and development work. She was falsely accused
of involvement in a 'communist' purge in Leyte in the 1980s even if
she was still a college student in Cebu at the time of the alleged
incident. In 2018, she was among some 600 respondents in the
government's proscription case against the CPP-NPA, which was
eventually dismissed by a Manila court. Now, she is accused of being
a terrorist. Where will this end? In her unjust arrest and
detention, forcible disappearance or extrajudicial killing?” she
stated.
"Karapatan demands an end
to terror-tagging. Government bodies like the National Task Force to
End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), ATC and AMLC whose
reason for being is to surveil, profile, red- and terror-tag human
rights defenders, development workers and political activists must
be abolished, and the fascist and anti-people policies that
engendered them, revoked," concluded Palabay.
DAR employees endure
heat, hike 5-km to validate ARBs
Municipal
Agrarian Reform Program Officer Ruben Rebato and his team
validates agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) in Hilongos,
Leyte’s farthest village. (DAR Hilongos) |
By
JOSE ALSMITH L. SORIA
May 5, 2024
HILONGOS, Leyte –
While many people now just want to stay in a cool environment,
personnel from the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) endured the
heat in reaching this town’s farthest village to validate agrarian
reform beneficiaries (ARBs) covered by the Support to Parcelization
of Lands for Individual Titling (SPLIT) project.
Heeding to the order of
Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado Estrella III to complete the
validation of ARBs by the third quarter of this year, Municipal
Agrarian Reform Program Officer (MARPO) Ruben Rebato, together with
his field validation team (FVT), proceeded to Barangay San Antonio,
which is some 30 kilometers away from the town proper on Wednesday,
April 3.
Rebato reported that they
had validated more than 50 ARBs listed in three collective
Certificates of Land Ownership Award (CLOAs) covering an aggregate
area of 132.6 hectares of farmlands located in the said village.
He shared that they had to
hike more than five kilometers uphill for about two hours to reach
this village situated on top of a mountain.
In the validation process,
ARBs are being checked whether they are still the ones in possession
of the lots awarded under the government’s Comprehensive Agrarian
Reform Program (CARP). If found out that the actual tiller is no
longer the registered ARB, an investigation report will be prepared
by the FVT and file a petition for the disqualification of the
registered ARB and reallocation for the actual tiller or qualified
ARB to receive the individual CLOA.
SPLIT project subdivides
lots covered by collective CLOAs and replaces with
electronically-generated individual land titles to improve land
tenure security and strengthen property rights of the ARBs.
Meanwhile, on the same
occasion, Rebato reactivated by reorganizing the Barangay Agrarian
Reform Council (BARC) of Barangay San Antonio considering the
important role the latter plays in the implementation of the World
Bank-funded SPLIT project.
YLS empowers future
leaders in Las Navas, Northern Samar
By
20th Infantry Battalion, 8ID PA
April 31, 2024
LAS NAVAS, Northern
Samar – Approximately 150 young individuals from various
barangays gathered and participated in the Youth Leadership Summit (YLS)
Las Navas 2024 held at TESDA-Las Navas Agro-Industrial School, Las
Navas, Northern Samar on April 26-28, 2024.
With the support and
commitment of the Local Government Unit of Las Navas, SK Federation
– Las Navas Chapter, Youth for Peace Movement – Las Navas Chapter,
and the collaboration of the 20th Infantry (We Lead) and 19th
Infantry (Commando) Battalion, the YOUth LEADership Summit Las Navas
2024 was successfully conducted under the theme: "EMPOWERING TODAY'S
LEADERS: IGNITING POTENTIALS, INVIGORATING POSITIVE CHANGE."
The YLS aimed to empower
and amplify the voices of youth in advancing peace, emphasizing
character-based leadership skills, enhancing their knowledge,
raising awareness about youth roles and responsibilities in
nation-building, and fostering nationalism and patriotism.
During the official
opening of YLS Las Navas 2024, Lt. Col. Richard P. Villaflor, Acting
Commanding Officer of the 20IB, expressed that the youth would
remain an inspiration for the battalion in fulfilling their sworn
duty to protect every Filipino against those who seek to undermine
our democracy. As the YLS formally starts, he encouraged the youth
to say no to deceptive CTG recruitment schemes.
“To our dear youth, I
speak to you not just as the battalion commander of the 20th
Infantry (We Lead) Battalion but as someone who believes in your
power to shape our future. This is your time to shine, to unleash
your potential, and ignite positive change in our beloved Las Navas.
The Youth Leadership Summit is just the beginning. After this YLS,
you will be armed with knowledge and inspiration, making you the
leaders our nation need,.” said Lt. Col. Villaflor.
Over three days, subject
matter experts from various agencies within LGU Las Navas,
government, and private sectors actively engaged the participants,
covering topics such as Basic Foundations of Leadership, Adolescent
Sexual Reproductive Health, Environmental Protection and
Preservation, Voters’ Education, Insurgency and the Role of the
Youth in Nation Building, Drugs and Criminalities, Gender Equality
and Campaign Against, Fire Safety and Basic Emergency Response,
TESDA Livelihood Programs and Scholarship Opportunities, Mental
Health Advocacy, and Knowing One’s Self.
Team-building activities
like Guidon-Making, Chant Competition, Obstacle Course, Trust Walk,
Reflection Night, Bonfire Activity, Morning Zumba, Dance Performance
Practice, "Alay-Linis", Shower for Peace, and a boodlefight were
conducted to promote teamwork and camaraderie among the youth.
The event also featured
“Gabi ng Kultura” on April 27, where the youth showcased their
creativity, resourcefulness, inner beauty, talent, and intelligence.
The participants were also given the opportunity to brainstorm and
address issues and problems in their respective barangays through
the Action Planning Session.
Meanwhile, 2nd Lt. April
Grace A. Silvosa, Battalion Personnel Officer of 20IB, shared her
personal experiences as a YLS Graduate and member of the Youth For
Peace Movement – Davao Oriental Chapter, highlighting the
significance of the YLS program for youth.
On the other hand, 1st Lt.
Joyce Ann L. Bayron, Battalion Civil-Military Operations Officer of
20IB, emphasized the importance of choosing friends and affiliations
wisely, drawing from her experiences as a university student at UP.
In her talk, she underscored the role of youth in combating
deceptive recruitment schemes of Communist Terrorist Groups and
stressed the significance of active youth participation in
nation-building.
Hon. Aaron de Alca, SK
Federation President, presided over the Oathtaking Ceremony for the
newly elected officers of the Youth For Peace Movement – Catubig
Chapter. In his address, Hon. de Alca encouraged the youth leaders
to embrace their potential as catalysts for positive change within
their communities and emphasized the importance of extending a
helping hand to those in need. “Ako, at ang aking mga kasamang
facilitators, ay handang makipatulungan para sa kabataan, para sa
pagbabago, at para sa future potential leaders na magbibigay pag-asa
sa mga bata rito o saanmang lupalop ng Pilipinas,” de Alca added.
The youth participants
expressed their appreciation for the facilitators and organizers of
the YLS, highlighting the valuable learning experience gained from
the summit. Rizan Nable of Brgy. San Francisco, a first-time
attendee, described the event as one of his most memorable
experiences. He particularly enjoyed the obstacle courses included
in the team-building activities, expressing gratitude to the
Philippine Army, especially the 20th Infantry (We Lead) Battalion.
“Lubos kaming natutuwa sa isinagawang obstacle courses na parte ng
aming team building activities, kung kaya’t nagpapasalamat kami sa
Philippine Army, lalong-lalo na sa 20IB. Hinding-hindi ko ito
makakalimutan dahil ito ang pinaka-‘the best’ na nangyari sa buhay
ko,”Rizan added.
Las Navas has 53 barangays,
with 26 of these previously affected by insurgency and local
communist armed conflict. Through continued support and
collaboration between the Local Government of Las Navas and the
Peace, Law Enforcement, and Development Support (PLEDS) Cluster, the
town has been declared by the Area Clearing Validation Committee as
“cleared from Communist Terrorist Group’s influence” on September
21, 2023.
This Youth Leadership
Summit exemplifies the proactive approach of the community and its
stakeholders in nurturing young leaders who are committed to
positive change and nation-building. The YLS not only provided
valuable knowledge and skills but also fostered unity and a sense of
purpose among the youth, contributing to the overall progress and
peace of Las Navas.
Save the Children backs
BBM’s call to end online sexual abuse and exploitation of children
Press Release
April 26, 2024
QUEZON CITY – Save
the Children Philippines supports Philippine President Ferdinand R.
Marcos, Jr.'s strong directive to end online sexual abuse or
exploitation of children (OSAEC) and child sexual abuse or
exploitation of children (CSAEM).
The Philippines currently
ranks second in the world, after India, in terms of the number of
cases of child sexual exploitation online.
There have been reports of
online sexual abuse and exploitation of babies as young as three
months old. They come from impoverished communities and live with
their relatives, who are desperate for money. Parents, relatives,
and neighbors force these children to perform sexual acts in front
of a camera.
We stand in unity with the
President and the nation in combating this silent pandemic that has
harmed and stolen the futures of millions of Filipino children.
President Marcos Jr.'s
sentiments on the troubling cases of OSAEC-CSAEM involving children,
86% of whom are female, ranging in age from 11 years old to as young
as one year old, are valid, and we must be certain that we use a
whole-community approach to put an end to it.
According to the National
Baseline Study on Violence Against Children, approximately one in
every two children has experienced online violence.
With 41% of facilitators
being biological parents and 42% being relatives, we are convinced
that prevention should begin at home, in schools, and in
communities.
Save the Children has been
working for and with children, the government, and multi-sector
partners to raise awareness and develop children and youth capacity
for OSAEC-CSAEM protection and prevention. We advocated for the
approval of Republic Act 11930, also known as the Anti-OSAEC-CSAEM
Law, in 2022, as well as the implementing rules and regulations in
2023.
Functional child
protection systems must supplement this to address the reporting,
response, prosecution, and rehabilitation of children who have been
victims of OSAEC-CSAEM.
In support of the
government's efforts, Save the Children Philippines intends to
intensify its work on localizing the OSAEC-CSAEM Law and contribute
to further advocacy for child protection from any form of violence
at all levels.
In 2023, our OSAEC
initiatives and advocacy led to the enactment of four (4) local
anti-OSAEC ordinances in Tagum, Davao, General Santos City, and
Iligan City.
We push for increased
cooperation among local government units, law enforcement agencies,
and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) through the Inter-Agency
Council Against Trafficking (IACAT), the body mandated by law to
coordinate and monitor the implementation of the Anti-OSAEC-CSAEM
Law, to ensure that policies, programs, and services are available
and that children are always protected.
Oldest Filipino
political prisoner turns 85, appeals for executive clemency
By
Tanggol Magsasaka
April 24, 2024
QUEZON CITY –
Yesterday, April 23, 2024, Tatay Gerardo Dela Pena turned 85 years
old. Tatay Gerardo is the country's oldest political prisoner.
As the oldest political
prisoner, Tatay Gerardo suffers from medical conditions including
hypertension, deteriorating eyesight, and hearing impairment,
further exacerbated by his advancing age.
Last year, the Department
of Justice’s Board of Pardons and Parole (BPP) issued Resolution No.
OT-08-02-2023, which states that "Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs)
who are 70 years old and above, and even if they are considered
high-risk, shall be considered for executive clemency if they have
already served 10 years of their sentence. This consideration is
especially applicable if they are suffering from old age, sickness,
terminal or life-threatening illnesses, or other serious
disabilities.” It is evident that Tatay Gerardo Dela Peña perfectly
fits the criteria for executive clemency outlined in this
resolution.
Who is Tatay Gerardo Dela
Peña?
Gerardo Dela Peña is a
Martial Law veteran and survivor. Just like many other martial law
victim-survivors, Tatay Gerardo hails from the peasantry in the
province of Camarines Norte in Bicol. Tatay Gerardo, as he is
affectionately called, dedicated himself to activism and organizing
within his community, standing up against the oppressive
dictatorship of Marcos Sr.
In 1982, Tatay Gerardo was
subjected to arrest, torture, and detention by police and military
forces. Trumped-up charges of subversion and robbery was filed
against him, he later was acquitted from these charges.
While in detention, Tatay
Gerardo ran for Barangay Captain and won, a move that ultimately
facilitated his release in 1983. Following his freedom, he continued
his service to his community by instituting programs dedicated to
peace and order, dispute resolution, and access to justice at the
barangay level, among others.
Later, with the downfall
of the Marcos dictatorship and the founding of Samahan ng
Ex-Detainees Laban sa Detensyon at Aresto, (SELDA) Gerardo Dela Pena
served as a founding member of SELDA and later as the chairperson of
its provincial chapter in Camarines Norte.
Tatay Gerardo remained
steadfast in his commitment to peasant organizing and human rights
advocacy within his home province. However, on March 21, 2013, at
the age of 74, he was once again arrested, this time by the 49th
Infantry Battalion in Brgy. Matango, Vinzons, Camarines Norte, on
fabricated charges of murder. Ten months after his arrest, on
December 12, 2013, Gerardo Dela Peña was convicted of murder and
sentenced to life imprisonment, with a term of 20-to-40-years. He is
now serving his sentence at the New Bilibid Prisons in Muntinlupa.
Human rights organizations
both locally and internationally have fervently advocated for his
immediate release, citing not only his deteriorating health but also
his innocence. These organizations have tirelessly campaigned for
his inclusion on the list of candidates for executive clemency
submitted to the Board of Pardons and Parole (BPP) for the December
2023 review. Despite all the efforts, Tatay Gerardo Dela Peña’s
inclusion for executive clemency was denied by Malacanang.
Tatay Gerardo's fervent
wish is to spend his remaining years with his beloved wife and
family. It is our collective hope that he receives the immediate
release he deserves, not only for humanitarian reasons but also in
recognition of his innocence and unwavering dedication to justice
and human rights.
HWPL Philippines
successfully hosts 2nd National Peace Convention
Press Release
April 20, 2024
PASAY CITY –
Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL)
Philippines concluded its highly anticipated 2nd National Peace
Convention at the Plenary Hall, Philippine International Convention
Center on April 20, 2024.
Themed "A Symposium of
Peace Legislation, Peace Education, and Religious and Cultural
Harmony," the convention brought together a diverse audience of
4,500 policymakers, educators, media, and religious leaders to
showcase the significant progress achieved since the inaugural
convention held in January last year.
The convention's keynote
speaker, Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim, Al-haj of the Bangsamoro
Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), delivered a compelling
address, “The HWPL has always been a good friend to the Bangsamoro
people, even before the inception of the Bangsamoro government. As I
recall, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the HWPL have
made significant achievements, such as when Chairman Man-Hee Lee
unveiled a peace marker in Camp Darapanan eight years ago and when I
first declared January 24 as HWPL Peace Day.”
He added: “Looking ahead,
the Bangsamoro Government remains committed to our pledge to work
collaboratively towards enacting the DPCW and bringing peace to the
Bangsamoro, the country, and the global village. In that respect, I
am humbled to highlight that the Bangsamoro Transition Authority
Parliament has adopted Resolution No. 439, declaring January 24 as
Peace Day in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
Further, the parliament has also adopted Resolution No. 440,
supporting HWPL’s efforts for the recognition of the declaration of
peace and cessation of war as an internationally legally binding
instrument of peace.”
The BARMM region, one
province, 4 cities and 5 municipalities nationwide that have passed
resolutions in support of a peace legislation were honored during
the event.
HWPL's peace education
initiative has gained momentum nationwide, with Schools Division
Offices (SDO) from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao leading efforts to
integrate HWPL Peace Education into the curriculum. The exemplary
efforts of SDO Laguna, SDO Southern Leyte, and SDO Cotabato City
were recognized for developing Peace Education textbooks.
The convention featured a
special message from Vice President and Department of Education
Secretary Sara Duterte-Carpio, emphasizing the importance of peace
education.
“It is inspiring to see
various groups working together to produce peace exemplars. You have
demonstrated the power of cooperation by distributing peace
education materials in schools, creating youth peace clubs, and
building monuments dedicated to peace. Together with our youth, we
can build on our successes and strengthen our advocacy to promote
peace in our country and across the globe,” she said.
Dr. Ronald L. Adamat,
Commissioner of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), in his
keynote address said: “I urge you to extend your support to all
peace initiatives and programs led by the HWPL. By endorsing and
fostering HWPL's peace efforts, we demonstrate a strong commitment
of advancing and promoting global harmony and stability.”
Interreligious harmony was
highlighted through HWPL's Religious Peace Academy (RPA), which
promotes unity among diverse religious communities through open
access scriptural study.
The event concluded with a
historic Joint Agreement of Solidarity signed by religious leaders,
reaffirming their shared commitment to peace and interfaith
dialogue.
With the aim of garnering
nationwide support for peace advocacy, the convention leveraged
HWPL's extensive global reach by livestreaming the event worldwide
with translations available in multiple languages.
HWPL, headquartered in
Seoul, South Korea, with 170 branches globally, including the
Philippines, remains steadfast in its mission for practical action
towards peace. Its notable achievements, including the civilian-led
Mindanao Peace Agreement in 2014, underscore the organization's
dedication to achieving global peace and cessation of war.
3 CTG members and
supporters surrender, yields firearms in Las Navas, Northern Samar
By
20th Infantry
Battalion, 8ID PA
April 18, 2024
LAS NAVAS, Northern Samar – Three members and supporters of the
Communist Terrorist Group (CTGs) have laid down their arms and
voluntarily surrendered to the Municipal Task Force to End Local
Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC) of Las Navas and 20th Infantry
(We Lead) Battalion after experiencing extreme hunger and
demoralization inside the armed group on Wednesday, April 17, 2024.
The three (3) CTG members and supporters were identified as Alias
Rion, member of Squad 1, Platoon 2; Alias Bunso, member of Squad 1,
Sub-Regional Guerilla Unit (SRGU), and Alias Ekgong, Yunit Militia
and Courier, all belonging to the remnants of Front Committee-15
(Dismantled), Sub-Regional Committee (SRC) Arctic, Eastern Visayas
Regional Party Committee (EVRPC). They have surrendered one (1) M16
Rifle with one (1) short magazine and fifteen (15) ammunition; one
(1) Caliber .38 Revolver; and one (1) Ingram M10A1 .45 ACP with one
(1) long magazine.
Led by Hon. Arliton A. Tan, the MTF-ELCAC and Local Government Unit
of Las Navas facilitated the immediate assistance for the three (3)
friends rescued through their Local Social Integration Program and
Municipal Task Force Balik-Loob Program and Initiatives. The three
received special cash assistance and food supplies.
The said surrender resulted from a series of coordinated actions,
including Local Peace Engagements (LPEs), Information Awareness
Campaign, Social Pressure Activities, and Enhanced Resource Control
Operations. These initiatives were carried out through the joint
efforts of the MTF-ELCAC Las Navas, 20IB Mobile Community Support
and Sustainment Program (MCSSP) Teams, 20IB CMO Intelligence
Coordinating Cell (CMOICC), and the family members of the said
friends rescued.
In interviews, the three CTG members and supporters who surrendered
emphasized the severe hardships they endured within the armed group,
including extreme hunger and harsh living conditions. They also
cited the demoralization resulting from the loss and capture of NPA
leaders and the continual encounters with security forces. Most
significantly, they realized the meaningless nature of their armed
struggle, which played a significant role in their decision to
surrender.
Acting Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Richard P. Villaflor underscored
that the surrender of the three individuals is a direct outcome of
concerted efforts, including continuous Local Peace Engagements,
intensified stakeholder engagements, and the seamless coordination
of CMO and Intelligence Operations. Lt. Col. Villaflor also
emphasized the critical role played by the Mobile Community Support
and Sustainment Program (MCSSP) in former conflict-affected areas,
encompassing, Information Awareness Campaigns, Social Pressure
Activities, Enhanced Resource Control Operations, and simultaneous
conduct of consultation and problem-solving sessions and local peace
dialogues involving the whole community.
"We are grateful for the unwavering support of our stakeholders,
especially Municipal Mayor Arlito A. Tan, whose efforts facilitated
the surrender of these CTG members and supporters," said Lt. Col.
Villaflor.
He expressed appreciation for the trust and confidence shown by the
families of the surrendered individuals in the government's
initiatives. Villaflor also extended a plea to the remaining CTG
members, urging them to abandon their struggle in the mountains,
reunite with their families, and embrace the government programs
designed to support their transition to civilian life.
Meanwhile, Las Navas MTF-ELCAC Chairperson Mayor Arlito A. Tan sees
the surrender of the three individuals as positive steps toward
peace. He is optimistic that their voluntary surrender will inspire
and encourage other CTG members to follow suit and return to the
folds of law.
“Magsilbi sanang inspirasyon sa inyo ang pag-surrender ng tatlong
former rebels na ito para tuluyan na kayong magbalik-loob sa
gobyerno at umuwi sa inyong mga pamilya. Makakaasa kayong tutulungan
namin kayo sa inyong pagbabagong buhay,” said Mayor Tan.
Mayor Tan assured that he will continue to support the initiatives
and programs to end the local communist armed conflict not only in
the town of Las Navas, Northern Samar but in the entire Eastern
Visayas region.
“Hindi na kami papayag sa anumang panggugulo ng mga armadong grupo.
Dahil dito sa Las Navas, kapayapaan ang tunay na kailangan,” Mayor
Tan expressed.
The Local Peace Engagement is a mechanism that enables the
government not only to directly engage the rebels in the peaceful
discourse but also touches base with residents in communities
affected by the armed conflict.
Since its inception in 2019, LPEs have played a pivotal role in
enhancing peace and security across various regions of the country.
Notably, in areas under the area of operations of the 803rd Infantry
(Peacemaker) Brigade, the continuous implementation of LPE
initiatives, alongside other concerted efforts, has led to the
voluntary surrender of 106 CTG members in Eastern and Northern Samar
since 2023.
NMP forges strategic
partnerships to advance maritime education and training
By
National Maritime
Polytechnic
April 18, 2024
TACLOBAN CITY – In
a landmark event on 18 April 2024, the National Maritime Polytechnic
(NMP) solidified its commitment to enhancing maritime education and
training through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with
esteemed partner institutions.
The virtual MOA signing
ceremony marked a significant milestone in the maritime industry, as
NMP formalized its collaboration with the Far East Maritime
Foundation Inc. (FEMFI), VMA Global College and Training Center Inc.
(VMA), and Northwestern University (NWU) in the conduct of Training
Courses for Instructors (IMO Model Course 6.09), Assessment,
Examination, and Certification of Seafarers (IMO Model Course 3.12),
and Training Courses for Simulator Instructors and Assessors (IMO
Model Course 6.10).
Recognizing the importance
of upgrading both seafarers' qualifications and maritime faculty
capabilities, NMP aims to ensure that Filipino seafarers acquire
essential competencies for employment onboard vessels through
effective maritime instruction.
NMP Executive Director
Victor A. Del Rosario, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration,
stating, "Today, we will be solidifying our partnership with a
common goal and commitment to professionalizing and enhancing the
capacity of our maritime instructors and assessors. This
collaboration also serves as a reintegration program, offering
opportunities for our seabased OFWs to pursue a career in teaching
in the maritime sector or industry. I am highly optimistic and
confident that this mutually beneficial agreement we are entering
into today will be successful and serve its purpose."
Representatives from
partner institutions also voiced their support and commitment to the
collaboration.
Ms. Cielito S. Ferias,
President of FEMFI, emphasized, "We will always be a ready partner
in the development of maritime training and assessment. This
commitment underscores our dedication to the maritime industry, and
we warmly welcome our collaboration with NMP."
VMA's Vice President for
Maritime Studies, Capt. Niño Elson O. Salabas, conveyed his sincere
gratitude for the partnership, citing, " Previously, we encountered
numerous challenges, particularly in ensuring compliance among our
instructors, and scheduling of these trainings was a significant
hurdle. With this cooperation, these tasks have become much more
manageable on our part."
Atty. Ferdinand S.
Nicolas, President of NWU, expressed his gratitude for NMP's
initiative in making these courses accessible. 'With NWU based in
Laoag, Ilocos Norte, this offers increased accessibility for our
maritime instructors. This partnership with NMP provides significant
relief for NWU and our faculty members, ensuring they are properly
equipped to instruct our maritime students.
NMP Deputy Executive
Director Mayla N. Macadawan concluded by expressing gratitude for
the collaboration, emphasizing NMP's commitment to improving course
accessibility and maintaining training standards. She stated,
"Today's collaboration has been truly remarkable. On behalf of NMP,
I would like to express our gratitude for your continued efforts to
collaborate with us. We take pride in our IMO Model Courses as these
are our flagship programs, and we remain committed to improving the
accessibility of these courses to all who need them across the
country. Let us be mindful of the terms of the MOA, and we will
continue to monitor and visit classes to ensure that the standards
we have set for these trainings are maintained."
The MOA is valid for three
(3) years starting from the commencement of the training programs.
During this period, the parties will work together to fulfill the
terms and objectives outlined in the agreement.
NMP remains open to
fostering synergy with maritime stakeholders who share a mutual
interest in enhancing the qualifications of Filipino seafarers,
thereby improving their employability and overall competitiveness in
the industry.
NMP successfully
retains ISO 9001:2015 certification
By
National Maritime Polytechnic
April 18, 2024
TACLOBAN CITY – The
National Maritime Polytechnic Quality Management System (NMP QMS)
retains its ISO 9001:2015 Certification after passing the Stage 2
Recertification Audit conducted by the SOCOTEC Certification
Philippines, simultaneously at its main office in Tacloban City and
liaison office in Makati City on 16-17 April 2024.
Mr. Billy Joel Sadangsal
and Ms. Ma. Fatima Mercurio, reviewed NMP’s compliance with QMS
through interviews with process owners, review of documented
information, and inspection of facilities and equipment. The areas
that were audited include: top management; maritime training and
assessment; curriculum development; maritime research and
development; general services and auxiliary; human resource
management, material resource management, control of documented
information, internal audit and management review.
During the exit meeting,
Mr. Sadangsal expressed appreciation for the NMP’s established QMS,
as well as the strong support and leadership demonstrated by the top
management for the continual improvement of its QMS. He highlighted
several positive observations: (a) commendable competence and
awareness among NMP personnel regarding the established processes;
(b) implementation of the Statistical Performance Reporting System;
(c) evident maturity in implementing controls in accordance with the
QMS at NMP Manila Office; (d) strategic approach to separate
assessment per transaction type in the Client Satisfaction
Measurement Report; (e) diligent preventive maintenance activities
for simulators; and (f) use of two systems for library management at
NMP Tacloban.
The audit report revealed
no non-conformances, although certain observations were raised as
opportunities for continual improvement. These observations will be
addressed through internal actions and revisited during the next
audit. With these findings, the NMP QMS has been recommended for
continued certification.
In his closing message,
Executive Director Victor A. Del Rosario stated, "I extend my
sincere gratitude to the auditors for their professionalism and
objectivity during the audit process. I also want to express my
appreciation to everyone for your active participation and
outstanding performance, which has resulted in our successful
recertification. This achievement underscores our collective
commitment, passion, and dedication to the pursuit of excellence in
accordance with both international and national standards."
As an Agency that commits
to continuous enhancement of seafarers, maintaining ISO
Certification of its QMS confirms the Agency’s relevance in carrying
out its mandate of upgrading the qualifications of Filipino
seafarers and providing relevant maritime industry researches.
LBP offers remedial
actions to ARBs with delinquent loans
By
JOSE ALSMITH L. SORIA
April 16, 2024
TACLOBAN CITY –
With the rising number of delinquent borrowers, the Land Bank of the
Philippines (LBP) offers remedial actions to agrarian reform
beneficiaries (ARBs) in Eastern Visayas with past due accounts
during the Local Project Management Committee (LPMC) First Quarter
meeting on Wednesday, April 3 this year.
Restituta Ilagan, Manager
of the LBP Lending Center, who presided over the said meeting,
explained to the Chiefs of the different Provincial Program
Beneficiaries Development Divisions of the Department of Agrarian
Reform (DAR) and their respective Agri-Credit and Microfinance
Provincial Point Persons that ARBs with delinquent loans could
request for either extension of maturity of their loans,
restructuring, or apply for the conditional condonation of penalty.
However, she emphasized
that their office could only grant the request for extension of
maturity if there is valid reason such as the occurrence of
calamities.
Likewise, conditional
condonation of penalties can only be approved if the borrower pays
the principal loan in full and must not miss in paying the remaining
monthly dues, otherwise, the condonation of the loan penalties will
be forfeited, Ilagan said.
According to Rosemarie
Arreglo, DAR Eastern Visayas Agri-Credit and Microfinance Regional
Point Person, ARBs delinquent loans stemmed from the various credit
assistance programs offered by DAR, which the ARBs had availed. This
is to help farmers acquire loans at low interest rates to finance
their farm operations and other livelihood activities, she added.
Arreglo shared that at
present ARBs can avail of loans through the Accessible Loans for
Empowered, Resilient and Transformed-Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries
Organizations (ALERT-ARBOs) credit program, which is jointly
administered by DAR, Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of
Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Agricultural Credit Policy
Council (ACPC), and the LBP.
DAR also offers loans
through the Accessible Fund for Delivery to ARBs (AFFORD) credit
program.
Meanwhile, on the same
occasion, Rhodelia Austero from the Philippine Crop Insurance
Company (PCIC) advised to register the ARBs in the Registry System
for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA) to be covered of the free
insurance up to P300,000.
Increased road network
built in Sta. Margarita
By
GISSELLE G. PARUNGAO
April 11, 2024
CALBAYOG CITY –
Samar First DEO has again completed a gravel road from Barangay
Langoyon, Calbayog City to Barangay Campaeig, Sta. Margarita, Samar
with a contract amount of P49.1 million funded under the General
Appropriations Act (GAA) of 2023.
This road opening spans
2.5 lane kilometers with a width of 9.1 meters of gravel road
including a slope protection of 72 meters.
A road is already
constructed from Barangay San Jose to Barangay Langoyon allowing
passage from the national road until Brgy. Campaeig. This is an
additional road allowing motorists, farmers and residents of nearby
areas to have more road networks since connectivity is imperative in
inner barangays.
Second high ranking
personality of communist terrorist group in Eastern Visayas captured
in Cebu
By
DPAO, 8ID PA
April 9, 2024
CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan
City – A certain Romulo Micabalo alias Ned /Lukad the top two
leader of the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC) was
apprehended in a joint inter-agency operation conducted by the 8th
Infantry "Stormtroopers" Division, Philippine Army and PNP on
April 8, 2024, at Barangay Pitogo, Consolacion, Cebu.
Micabalo has a standing
warrant of arrest for two counts of kidnapping with serious illegal
detention and for robbery with violence against or intimidation of
person issued by Hon. Fernando Fudulan Jr of Branch 07, Regional
Trial Court in Bayugan City, Agusan Del Sur.
Alias Ned is a known
notorious leader of the Regional Operations Command (ROC) and head
of the Regional Operations Division (ROD) of the EVRPC is
responsible for the numerous CTG atrocities in Eastern Visayas.
He was a former member of
the Regional Sentro De Gravidad - Compaq, of the North Central
Mindanao Regional Party Committee (NCMRC) operating in Northern
Mindanao.
He is the son of Dionisio
Micabalo alias Muling the top leader of the NCMRC who was killed in
an encounter with government troops in Gingoog City, Misamis
Oriental on July 26, 2023.
According to reports,
alias Ned orchestrated the burning of Jipapad - Las Navas road
construction equipment in Barangay Quirino and Barangay San
Francisco, Las Navas, Northern Samar estimated to be worth P32
Million on July 29, 2021, the ambush and massacre of a soldier and
three CAAs and wounding of another six CAAs who were doing
construction works of the detachment of 52IB CAAs at Barangay 4,
Jipapad, Eastern Samar on July 29, 2021 and the attack on the
Community Support Program Team securing the construction of school
building at Barangay Dorillo, Jipapad, Eastern Samar on October 07,
2022 wounding a 10-year-old child.
The Commander of 8ID,
Major General Camilo Z Ligayo, lauded the success of the
inter-agency operations and credited the accomplishment to the 8ID's
counterparts in ending the local communist armed conflict.
"The support of our
partner stakeholders is the key to this achievement, as we continue
to crack down the CTGs to their smallest formations. We will be
relentless in our operations. We assure you that our people will be
protected and freed from violence and atrocities by the CTGs," said
Maj. Gen. Ligayo.
“To the remaining cadres
of the EVRPC give peace a chance and take advantage on the
comprehensive program of the government to start a peaceful life.”
Maj. Gen. Ligayo added.
President Ferdinand Marcos
Jr. granted Executive Order (EO) No. 47 which revised Executive
Order No 125 from 2021, establishing the National Amnesty Commission
(NAC). Marcos granted amnesty to those who “committed crimes in
pursuit of political beliefs” especially to former members of the
Communist Party of the Philippines - New People’s Army - National
Democratic Front, Partido ng Manggagawa ng Pilipinas, Revolutionary
Proletarian Army, Alex Boncayao Brigade and members of the Moro
Islamic Liberation Front and Moro National Liberation Front.
Las Navas Municipal Task
Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, Mayor Arlito Tan
expressed that he is optimistic that with the apprehension of alias
Ned other members of the CTGs will soon be neutralized.
“Magsilbi sanang
inspirasyon sa inyo ang pagkakahuli sa inyong lider para tuluyan na
kayong magbalik-loob sa gobyerno at umuwi sa inyong mga pamilya.
Makakaasa kayong tutulungan namin kayo sa inyong pagbabagong buhay,”
said Mayor Tan.
Mayor Tan assured that he
will continue to support the initiatives and programs to end the
local communist armed conflict not only in the town of Las Navas,
Northern Samar but in the entire region.
“Hindi na kami papayag sa
anumang panggugulo ng mga armadong grupo. Dahil dito sa Las Navas,
kapayapaan ang tunay na kailangan,” Mayor Tan expressed.
OTOP building ready for
occupancy
By
GISSELLE G. PARUNGAO
April 9, 2024
CALBAYOG CITY –
Samar First DEO has constructed its first multi-purpose building
under the One Town One Product (OTOP) program which is a convergence
project amounting to P9.85 million.
The building has a
groundfloor and mezzanine which will serve as a souvenir and home
décor and furniture display areas. The building is equipped with air
conditioner, installed tiles and a toilet room. A concept of a
modern building design is used to build the structure wherein modern
interior lightings were mounted, it has a decorative sun breaker
cladding and tempered glass are installed for aesthetic purposes at
the same time the products are visible from the outside.
The building will showcase
local products and help small scale businesses to have a venue for
their goods as this will serve as the city’s “Pasalubong Center”.
This structure has been
one of the visions of the Representative of Samar, Cong. Stephen
James Tan and the Local Government Unit (LGU) to have a venue that
will promote entrepreneurship and job creation since local products
can now be highlighted and displayed in a definite location.
'Saad nga Balay'
Project handed over to former rebels in San Jose de Buan, Samar
By
DPAO, 8ID PA
April 7, 2024
CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan
City – A significant milestone in Samar's peace-building
initiatives was celebrated with the inauguration and turnover
ceremony of "Saad nga Balay" or houses for former rebels in San Jose
de Buan, Samar, on April 4, 2024, at Barangay Poblacion 1.
The event, with the theme
"Saad nga Balay para han Peace Builders ha San Jose de Buan Samar,"
was graced by the attendance of Senator Robin Padilla, Samar
Governor Sharee Ann Tan, Major General Camilo Z. Ligayo, Commander
of the 8th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, San Jose de Buan
Mayor Joaquin Elizalde, and the San Jose de Buan Peacebuilder Group
led by its President, Tito Labong.
The "Saad nga Balay"
initiative aimed to support former rebels by offering them adequate
housing, allowing them to embark on a fresh start following their
surrender to the government.
The project has a total
budget of 4 million pesos, which was shared by the provincial
government of Samar and the municipal government.
Ten houses have been
turned over to ten peacebuilder beneficiaries, while construction of
the remaining seven is ongoing.
In his address, Senator
Padilla reiterated to the peacebuilders the importance of their
commitment to the government and assured them that the government is
always prepared to offer assistance.
"Mayroon tayong gobyerno
na tumatakbo. Ang kailangan na lang natin tulungang yung gobyerno na
yun para magpatakbo ng tama," Senator Padilla conveyed to the
beneficiaries.
Senator Padilla's office
pledged to cover the expenses for one housing unit and provided
P200,000 to the peacebuilders group.
In addition to housing,
various government agencies and partners extended their assistance
to the beneficiaries. The Department of Social Welfare and
Development distributed P10,000 AICS assistance to the peacebuilders
in the area.
The Brigade Commander of
801st Infantry Brigade, Brigadier General Lenart Lelina called on
the remaining CNTs to return to the folds of the law and avail of
various government assistance to help them start their life anew.
Addressing the
peacebuilders, 8ID Commander, Major General Camilo Ligayo reflected
on their transformative journey towards peace, reconciliation, and
progress.
“To our Peacebuilders,
this day marks the beginning of a new chapter in your lives. May
this endeavor open doors to new possibilities and broaden our vision
for the future. Through our continuous efforts and cooperation, let
us make meaningful strides forward," Maj. Gen. Ligayo encouraged the
peacebuilders.
Farm-to-market road
constructed in Tarangnan, Samar
By
GISSELLE G. PARUNGAO
April 7, 2024
CALBAYOG CITY – A
farm-to-market road (FMR) has been constructed from Barangays
Majacob to Sugod in the Municipality of Tarangnan, Samar in
convergence with the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) having a
contract amount of P35.47 million.
The barangays’ products
and nearby areas are mostly root crops and copra which is their main
source of income, thus such road is built to address the problem of
farmers in the transportation of goods.
The road spans 820 meters
of Portland Cement Concrete Pavement (PCCP) road with a width of
6.10 meters. A stone masonry and embankment is also incorporated
with a length of 752.90 meters.
This FMR will further help
farmers in transporting their goods to the marketplace faster and
more convenient allowing them to gain better prices and wider reach
for their products.
1 CNT killed and 1
captured, 2 high-powered firearms recovered in Northern Samar clash
By
DPAO, 8ID PA
April 3, 2024
CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan
City – One Communist NPA Terrorist (CNT) was killed, another was
captured, and two high-powered firearms were recovered in an
encounter by the troops of 19th Infantry "Commando" Battalion, 8th
Infantry "Stormtroopers" Division, Philippine Army at the
hinterlands of Brgy. Osmeña, Las Navas, Northern Samar early this
morning, April 3, 2024.
The troops conducted a
Focused Military Operation following the information provided by a
concerned civilian that a group of armed men was in the said
barangay doing extortion activities to the residents.
The armed men are believed
to be members of the Sub-Regional Guerilla Unit (SRGU), Sub-Regional
Committee (SRC) Emporium, Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC)
led by a certain Mario Sevillano, alias Durok.
The firefight lasted for
about 20 minutes, and the CNTs retreated, leaving behind one slain
and one wounded member, along with two M16 rifles and personal
belongings.
The slain CNT member was
identified by their former comrade as Adel Cabides alias Hipolito
and the wounded CNT member identified as Jessie Robinacio alias
Tadok and immediately given first aid by the operating troops of the
19IB.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant
Colonel Marvin Maraggun, Commanding Officer of the 19IB, commended
and expressed his gratitude for the support of the Local Task Force
ELCAC of Las Navas, and the cooperation of communities from
Barangays Cuenco, Capotoan, and Osmeña of Las Navas.
“The timely information
provided by concerned citizens regarding the presence and extortion
activities of armed rebels indicates that the community fully
realized that they also have a responsibility in solving the problem
of insurgency,” said by Lt. Col. Maraggun.
"We extend our deepest
sympathy to the family and friends of the NPA member who was killed.
I have ordered the ground Commander to bring down the body, give him
respect, and ensure a decent preparation for his burial before
delivering him to his family once we have confirmed his identity,"
said Major General Camilo Z. Ligayo, the Commander of 8ID.
Maj.Gen. Ligayo reiterated
the call to the remaining CNTs to lay down their arms and return to
the folds of the law.
“We will ensure your
safety once you surrender and we assure you that the Army will help
you get the necessary assistance that the government offers as you
live your life anew,” Maj.Gen. Ligayo added.
The group of alias Durok
was responsible in perpetrating numerous atrocities in Northern
Samar. One of these atrocities was the attack on two unarmed CAFGU
Active Auxiliary (CAA) in San Isidro, Northern Samar in August 2021.
DAR-EV shines at
national assessment, receives multiple awards for SPLIT
implementation
The
top management of the Department of Agrarian Reform Regional
office 8 presents to its employees the various awards
received by the said office for the 2023 implementation of
the Support to Parcelization of Lands for Individual Titling
(SPLIT) project during the National Summative Assessment in
Angeles, Pampanga. (JOSE ALSMITH L. SORIA) |
By
MARVIN R. ORQUIOLA
April 3, 2024
TACLOBAN CITY – In
a remarkable display of dedication and excellence, the Department of
Agrarian Reform (DAR) in Eastern Visayas has garnered numerous
awards and recognitions at the National Summative Assessment for its
outstanding implementation of the Support to Parcelization of Lands
for Individual Titling (SPLIT) project in the region.
Held in Angeles, Pampanga
on March 5 to 8, the said event highlighted the regions’ exceptional
performance in advancing agrarian reform initiatives.
During the flag-raising at
the DAR Regional Office in this city on March 11 this year, Regional
Director, Atty. Robert Anthony Yu, alongside Assistant Regional
Director for Operations, Renato Badilla and Assistant Regional
Director for Administration, Ismael Aya-ay, proudly showcased the
awards before the agency’s employees and the Project SPLIT team.
Aya-ay expressed gratitude
to the project implementers, acknowledging their relentless efforts
and dedication which played a crucial role in securing these
prestigious awards for this region. He emphasized that the team’s
hard work reflects the department’s commitment to excellence and
innovation in agrarian reform.
Eastern Visayas has been
recognized in several categories, including second in E-Title
registration and Across All Parcelization Indicators awards.
This region also secured
third place in Field Validation, fourth in E-Title Distribution, and
was honored with the Environmental and Social Safeguards (ESS)
Outstanding Data Compliance Award.
For the provincial level,
DAR Leyte Provincial Office was ranked second in Across All
Parcelization Indicators category, second in E-Title Registration,
third in E-Title Distribution, and second in Field Validation.
Meanwhile, DAR Northern Samar Provincial Office was likewise
recognized for placing third in E-Title Registration.
Project SPLIT represents
DAR’s focused efforts on accelerating the subdivision of collective
Certificates of Land Ownership Award (CLOAs) into individual titles,
thereby reinforcing the rights of agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs).
With its comprehensive
approach encompassing parcelization of collective CLOAs, capability
building, and stringent project management with monitoring and
evaluation, the project stands as a testament to DAR Region 8’s
unwavering commitment to ARB development.
Aya-ay exclaimed that the
recognitions received are not only a tribute to the hard work and
perseverance of DAR in Eastern Visayas but also a motivation to
continue striving for excellence in the pursuit of justice and
equity in agrarian reform.
Tarangnan town in Samar
declares Stable Internal Peace and Security status on its 140th
Founding Anniversary Celebration
By
DPAO, 8ID PA
April 1, 2024
CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan
City – The Municipality of Tarangan, Samar was formally declared
with Stable Internal Peace and Security (SIPS) status in a
Ceremonial Signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) during the
town’s 140th Founding Anniversary Celebration on April 1, 2024.
Said municipality was
granted the SIPS status because of the successful conduct of Local
Peace Engagement (LPE) down to the Barangay level and the effective
multi-sectoral commitment for peace and security.
In his message, Tarangnan
Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict Chair,
Mayor Danilo Tan, expressed his gratitude to the people of Tarangnan
for their full support and cooperation in achieving a peaceful
community.
The Commanding Officer of
the 3rd Infantry Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Fritz Montemor
expressed his appreciation to the community’s cooperation which is
crucial in attaining the SIPS status in Tarangnan.
“This declaration of SIPS
status is the result of the sacrifices, bravery, and cooperation of
our people. Insurgency is not just a lone responsibility of the AFP
or any uniform service but a result of our unity”, Lt. Col. Montemor
said.
Meanwhile, Police
Lieutenant Colonel Edwin Barbosa, the Deputy Provincial Director for
Operations of Samar Police Provincial Office assured the people of
Tarangnan that the PNP will be a constant partner of the Armed
Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Local Government Unit (LGU)
in maintaining peace and order to achieve a more progressive
community.
The SIPS status is one of
the criteria for a municipality for it to be declared as
insurgency-free community.
Tarangnan is the second
town in Samar Province with SIPS status after Pagsanghan which was
proclaimed on December 12, 2023, and which was later declared as the
first insurgency-free town in the province.
PH reaches USD 133
million export sales in Dubai food expo
By
DTI-Center for
International Trade Expositions and Missions
March 27, 2024
PASAY CITY – FOODPhilippines, the country’s collective food promotions program,
capped its Gulfood participation yielding USD 133 million in export
sales, double the total sales it generated from its 2023
participation.
The amount is a
combination of booked orders and sales under negotiation following
the 5-day food expo which ran from February 19 to 23, at the Dubai
World Trade Centre (DWTC) in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Known as the biggest
gathering of leading food and beverage (F&B) brands from more than
190 countries, Gulfood provides a business platform to buyers,
exhibitors, and notable personalities in the food and hospitality
industries. The annual trade show for food sets the stage where the
latest tastes, trends, and innovations are unveiled.
This year, a delegation of
25 Philippine companies engaged in F&B brought to the fore local
food products focused on health and wellness. Among the top-selling
companies are Pixcel Transglobal, Inc.; SL Agritech Corp.; and
Lionheart Farms, Inc. Consequently, the top food products in terms
of dollar value of export leads were fruit preserves, cavendish
bananas, fermented marine products, and amino sap beverages.
Center for International
Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) Edward Fereira underscored
the crucial role that Gulfood has been playing in the global food
scene saying that “the annual food expo has become an entry point
for businesses across the world to penetrate the Middle East and
North Africa (MENA) Region.”
The
Philippine Pavilion opened its doors to visitors and foreign trade
buyers through a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by export promotions
head Edward Fereira and Philippine Ambassador to the UAE, Hon.
Ambassador Alfonso Ferdinand Ver, along with other key government
officials. The ceremony was followed by a series of matchmaking
services and business-to-business meetings between Philippine
exporters and foreign trade buyers.
This year’s participation
is led by CITEM, an attached agency of the Department of Trade and
Industry (DTI), in close collaboration with the Department of Trade
and Industry - Export Marketing Bureau (DTI-EMB), and Philippine
Trade and Investment Center in Dubai (PTIC-Dubai).
CITEM is also set to hold
IFEX Philippines, the country’s biggest international trade show for
food and ingredients, on May 10-12, 2024 at the World Trade Center
Metro Manila, in Pasay City, Philippines.
To learn more about the
Philippine exhibitors, visit their digital storefronts on
IFEXConnect.com. Read stories on the Philippines’ rich food culture
and culinary landscape on foodphilippines.com.
PSA RSSO 8 continues
its partnership with DSWD providing major PhilSys services to
beneficiaries
By
PSA-8
March 26, 2024
TACLOBAN CITY – The
Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Region VIII continues to offer
its services to the beneficiaries of the various programs of the
Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) particularly on
Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) Step 2 Registration,
Authentication, Retrieval of Transaction Numbers and ePhilID
Issuance.
The roll-out of this
colocation activities in Eastern Visayas commenced on 11 March 2024
after all agreements between PSA and DSWD were finalized during the
coordination meeting held on 08 March 2024. PSA PhilSys teams were
deployed in various municipalities and barangays to cater populace
both one to four years old and 5 years old above.
As of 26 March 2024, below
is the breakdown of services and total number of transactions logged
under the DSWD FDS colocation;
The endeavor is being done
pursuant to the memorandum issued in January 2024 by the DSWD
Secretary Rex Gatchalian with the goal of registering about 24
Million beneficiaries and their children nationwide to PhilSys while
those aged five (5) years and above who were registered with PhilSys
before 01 February 2024 must undergo the PhilSys Authentication for
them to be able to avail the Family Development Sessions (FDS)
equivalency.
CARD MBA’s 91st PO
inaugurated in Romblon; extends microinsurance services to more than
40,000
By
MARY
ROSE JAVIER
March 26, 2024
SAN PABLO CITY – The CARD Mutual Benefit Association, Inc. (CARD MBA), the insurance
arm of CARD Mutually Reinforcing Institutions (CARD MRI), has marked
another significant milestone with the opening of its 91st
Provincial Office (PO) in Romblon on March 18, 2024.
With the recent establishment of the 90th PO in North Cotabato on
March 5, 2024, this latest expansion highlights CARD MBA's steadfast
commitment to bringing affordable insurance services to
hard-to-reach areas across the Philippines.
"Continuing our expansion into remote provinces is pivotal to our
mission of serving clients in urgent need of micro insurance,"
emphasized by CARD MBA CEO Jocelyn Dequito during the inauguration
ceremony.
Dequito elaborated, "CARD MBA's goal is to ensure that no one gets
left behind though the products and services that CARD MBA offers.
Aside from microinsurance, we also provide immediate assistance
during times of calamities." She also highlighted the institution's
8-24 strategy, which prioritizes settling insurance claims to its
members and beneficiaries within eight to 24 working hours.
Since its establishment in 1999, CARD MBA aims to provide benefits
to members in case of death and uncertainties, offering a range of
microinsurance products designed to provide protection and
assistance.
These products include the Basic Life Insurance Program, Retirement
Fund, Loan Redemption Fund Plus, Golden Life Insurance Program,
Family Security Plan, Acci Plan, and Remitter Protek Plan.
Additionally, CARD MBA actively participates in community
development programs such as mass weddings and the CARD MRI Disaster
Relief Assistance Program.
The newly opened PO is situated at Festin Street, Sitio Torrel,
Barangay Dapawan, Odiongan, Romblon will be serving a total of
43,386 members from CARD, Inc. (A Microfinance NGO).
The inauguration of this PO signifies CARD MBA's unwavering
commitment to expanding its reach and ensuring financial security
for Filipinos nationwide. It represents the institution's ongoing
efforts to empower communities and build resilience against life's
uncertainties.
DAR-EV reaps multiple
national recognitions for 2023 performance
The
Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in Eastern Visayas
received 19 recognitions during the agency’s National
Summative Assessment for the 2023 performance. |
By
JOSE ALSMITH L.
SORIA
March 26, 2024
TACLOBAN CITY – The
Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in Eastern Visayas received
several recognitions during the agency’s National Summative
Assessment held in Angeles City, Pampanga for the 2023 performance.
DAR Eastern Visayas
Regional Director Robert Anthony Yu proudly announced that from
March 5 to 8, Region 8 collected 19 certificates and plaques of
recognition for various indicators that contributed to the national
accomplishment of the said government agency.
He exclaimed, “Our efforts
paid off!” addressing all DAR employees throughout the region.
Topping the list of awards
received was for the resolution of agrarian-related cases where the
collective efforts of Regional Agrarian Reform Adjudicator (RARAD)
Virgilio Rosacay (concurrent PARAD of Leyte and Biliran), Provincial
Agrarian Reform Adjudicators (PARADs) Florenz Hipe (Southern Leyte),
Nellie Canillas (Western Samar), Bryan Lassiter (Eastern Samar), and
Editha San Jose-Cerillo (Northern Samar) placed DAR Eastern Visayas
at rank number one among regions with heavy caseloads.
The above-mentioned
adjudicators were able to resolve last year a total of 4,157
agrarian-related cases.
This region was also cited
for the following:
- First in
Agrarian Legal Service for regions with low case load
- Second in E-title Registration for Leyte under high
category
- Second in Field Validation for Leyte under high category
- Second in E-title Registration for Region 8 under high
category
- Second in Provincial Performance on all ARBDSP Indicators
for 2023 for Samar
- Second in Regional Performance on all ARBDSP Indicators
for Region 8
- Second in Regional Over-All ARBDSP Performance for 2023
- Second in Across all Parcelization Indicators
Accomplishment Award for Leyte under high category
- Second in Across all Parcelization Indicators
Accomplishment Award for Region 8 under high category
- Second in highest overall obligation rate of 99.35% for
Region 8
- Third in E-title distribution for Leyte under high
category
- Third in E-title registration for Northern Samar under
medium category
- Third in Field Validation for Region 8 under high category
- Fourth in E-title distribution for Region 8 under high
category
- Environmental and Social Safeguards Outstanding Data
Compliance Award
- Outstanding financial performance as one of the highest
Budget Utilization Rate for 2023 for Southern Leyte
- Certificate of excellence performance for Leyte for LAD
achievers in EP/CLOA Registration
- Certificate of excellence performance for Leyte for LAD
achievers in Claim Folder Documentation |
Building roads to
increase road network in San Jorge, Samar
By
GISSELLE G. PARUNGAO
March 26, 2024
CALBAYOG CITY – An
additional concrete road is built to increase road network and gain
access to interior barangays is recently built in Barangay La Paz in
the Municipality of San Jorge, Samar with a contract amount of P19.5
million.
A total length of 826
meters of Portland Cement Concrete Pavement (PCCP) is constructed in
the area with a 6.10-meter width. Also, part of the work is an open
canal of 121 meters and stone masonry of 294 meters.
Concreting said road is a
big milestone from its previous state which is a gravel road
allowing comfortability, ease and safety for motorists and residents
traversing the area. Also, farmers of root crops and “palay” would
be able to experience ease in travelling their products to the
marketplace.
DTI Sydney lauds
granting of mining permit to Australian company
By
DTI-Foreign Trade Service Corps
March 25, 2024
SYDNEY, Australia – On the
heels of the successful visit of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr to
Melbourne, Australia which yielded a total value of USD1.53 billion
business agreements signed, the Department of Trade and Industry’s
(DTI) overseas office in Australia, the Philippine Trade and
Investment Center in Sydney (PTIC Sydney) lauded the recent granting
of a mining permit to Perth-based Celsius Resources, through its
Philippine subsidiary, Makilala Mining Company, Inc. (MMCI) for its
flagship Maalinao-Caigutan-Biyog Mining Project (MCB) located in the
Cordillera Administrative Region in the Philippines.
The Philippine government,
through the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)
granted the mining permit or Mineral Production Sharing Agreement (MPSA)
to Makilala Mining Company, Inc on 15 March 2024. The permit grants
the company exclusive rights to undertake rational exploration,
development, and commercial production of copper and associated
minerals.
The issuance of the MPSA,
which is the first copper project to be approved in the Philippines
in the last fifteen years, grants MMCI the exclusive right to
undertake rational exploration, development, and commercial
production of copper and associated minerals within the Contract
Area covering approximately 2,500 hectares for a period of 25 years
and is renewable for another 25 years.
During President Marcos
visit to Melbourne, he highlighted to the Australian Business
Community that the Philippines is positioning itself as a regional
hub for smart and sustainable manufacturing. To achieve this, he
emphasized that the Philippines is at the forefront of attracting
sustainable-driven strategic investments such as investments in
critical mineral processing, wherein the government enforces strict
adherence to labor and environmental standards.
Celsius Executive Chairman
Atty. Julito R. Sarmiento said: “The issuance of the mining permit
has been much awaited by Celsius and the Balatoc Community. Now is
our chance to deliver on our firm commitment to work with the
Government and the local communities to develop the MCB Project in a
sustainable manner that creates value not only for our shareholders
but also for our communities.”
Sarmiento added that they
are seriously taking the government’s call for the Project to go
beyond compliance by striking a balance between keeping the business
viable, protecting and rehabilitating the environment, uplifting
local communities, and supporting the government’s socio-economic
agenda. He also expressed confidence that they can make the project
happen with the Philippine Government under the bold leadership of
His Excellency President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.
Meanwhile, Celsius
Managing Director Peter Hume, said the grant of the MCB mining
permit marks the progression of Celsius from being known as an
exploration company to a mineral resource developer, and eventually
a mine operator.
Over the last eighteen
months, the company has been interfacing with potential investors
who have shown resounding interest in the MCB Project but have been
also waiting for the issuance of the mining permit. With this now in
hand, the company will proceed with finalising funding options for
the Project.
NMP secures MARINA’s
nod for course accreditation
By
National Maritime Polytechnic
March 22, 2024
TACLOBAN CITY – The
National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) recently underwent a rigorous
inspection carried out by the Maritime Industry Authority -
Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (MARINA-STCW)
Office from 18-21 March 2024. Said inspection was crucial for NMP’s
application for the re-accreditation of its three (3) courses set to
expire this year and the accreditation of one (1) new course
offering.
Aiming to continue
offering diverse array of courses, NMP sought re-accreditation of
the following STCW-regulated courses: (1) Fast Rescue Boat
(Expiration: 19 April 2024), (2) Security Awareness Training for
Seafarers with Designated Security Duties (Expiration: 26 May 2024),
and (3) Ship Security Officer (Expiration: 28 December 2024).
In its quest to further
enrich its curriculum, NMP is poised to launch the Passenger Ship
Crowd Management Training (PSCMT), designed to equip participants
with the skills needed to manage crowds during onboard emergencies,
locate essential safety and emergency equipment, and effectively
communicate with passengers to guide them to muster stations.
The inspection aimed to
assess NMP's ability to deliver these courses and to ensure
compliance with the standards outlined in MARINA Memorandum Circular
Nos. SC-2022-05, SC-2021-09, and SC-2021-08. The MARINA Inspection
Team focused on Specific Key Areas (SKAs), including Course Packages
of the Training Standards, Qualification of Instructors and
Assessors, Instructional Aids and Materials, Assessment System, and
Facilities and Training Equipment.
Some areas for improvement
were identified but were promptly addressed by NMP during the
inspection period, leading to the absence of any recorded
deficiencies by MARINA. Consequently, the inspectors recommended the
accreditation of all four (4) courses.
During the exit meeting,
the MARINA Inspection Team expressed gratitude to NMP for the smooth
inspection process and commended the Agency for effectively
implementing previous recommendations and for the continual
enhancement of its training facilities.
Ms. Mayla N. Macadawan,
NMP Deputy Executive Director, expressed her sincere appreciation to
the MARINA inspectors, highlighting the broad impact of NMP's
training services. "Our gratitude to the MARINA inspectors is
profound. NMP's course offerings not only bolster the capabilities
of Filipino seafarers in Region 8 but also elevate the training
standard across the nation. We are committed to provide quality
training and we welcome feedback as an opportunity to further
enhance our services."
In parallel, NMP Executive
Director Victor A. Del Rosario outlined a forward-looking
perspective, emphasizing the collaborative spirit with MARINA. "NMP’s
relationship with MARINA transcends regulatory compliance; it serves
as a cornerstone, guiding us toward fulfilling our broader mission.
With the support of MARINA and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW),
along with clear directives from President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ R.
Marcos, NMP's future is indeed bright. Our plans for acquiring
state-of-the-art simulators and equipment upgrades in 2025 are
aligned with national objectives to meet international standards,
including those set by the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA).
Moreover, our strategic location in Region 8, within the
constituency of House Speaker Romualdez, ensures continued support
from Congress, promising a vibrant future for NMP and its
contributions to the maritime sector."
Meanwhile, NMP continues
to upgrade its facilities and provide maritime training required
pursuant to the Standards of Training, Certification, and
Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) Convention as amended in 2010,
including value-adding courses aimed at improving the qualifications
of Filipino seafarers for their employment acceptability and
enhanced competitiveness.
NMP encourages seafarers
to take advantage of the NMP-OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare
Administration) Seafarers’ Upgrading Program (SUP) and Skills for
Employment Scholarship Program (SESP), which offer financial
assistance for training costs from OWWA.
CARD MRI introduces
savings product for senior citizens
CARD
MRI Founder and Chairman Emeritus Dr. Jaime Aristotle Alip
delivered his congratulatory message for the official launching
of CARD MRI’s savings product. |
By
JOSEPHINE M. RAMOS
March 21, 2024
SAN PABLO CITY – CARD MRI Banking Group launched its latest savings product—an
exclusive savings account designed for senior citizens. The
launching was held at CARD MRI Basement, Paulino Street, San Pablo
City, Laguna on March 18, 2024.
CARD MRI Founder and Chairman Emeritus Dr. Jaime Aristotle Alip
emphasized the importance of seniors to CARD MRI saying, "Many of
CARD MRI clients are aged 60 and above, prompting us to consider
additional means of securing their financial well-being, which is
why we came up with a savings account exclusively for them. Through
this initiative, we hope that our elderly clients continue to feel
valued and supported just like how we have always been from the
beginning."
How it started
During a visit to an Indian bank, Dr. Alip and several members of
the management team witnessed the special attention given to senior
citizens through exclusive banking products tailored to their needs.
Inspired by this approach, they decided to create savings products
aimed at meeting the basic financial needs of the elderly, allowing
them to earn income through savings interest.
Tailored Solutions for our Senior Citizens
CARD Bank, Inc. offers the Magalang Term Deposit; CARD SME Bank
provides My Wealth Savings; and CARD MRI Rizal Bank, Inc. offers the
Gabay Ipon Term Deposit. Due to its exclusivity for senior citizens,
its interest rate is higher compared to the regular time deposit
rates of the CARD Banking Group.
The said savings product, requiring a minimum deposit of
P10,000.00, is open to aged 60 and above.
In addition to term deposits, seniors have the option to open a
regular savings account with My Life Savings at CARD SME Bank for a
minimum deposit of P200.00, which offers a higher interest rate
than iSave.
With a vision to strengthen financial security among older people,
this event marks a significant milestone in CARD MRI’s commitment to
serve diverse financial needs.
The launching was also graced by CARD MRI Managing Director Mr.
Aristeo Dequito, CARD Bank President and CEO Ms. Marivic Austria,
CARD SME Bank President and CEO Ms. Cynthia Baldeo, CARD RBI
President and CEO Ms. Elma Valenzuela, Senior Advisers, CARD MRI key
officers, staff, and clients.
During the event, CARD Bank client Leonida Jawili and CARD SME Bank
client Luz Lalap expressed gratitude for the new savings product
intended for senior citizens like themselves.
"As a senior citizen, this savings product is a great help for
individuals like me who rely solely on pensions. It allows me to
save money while also earning through its interest rate,” Leonida
Jawili stated.
Meanwhile, Luz Lalap urges the elderly in her community to explore
and learn more about the new savings product introduced by CARD MRI.
As of January 2024, CARD MRI had served 9,257,701 clients
nationwide.
PSA Eastern Samar
recipient of land donated by LGU Balangkayan
(From
L to R) Balangkayan Municipal Engineer Jemsel D. Valdez, PSA
RSSO 8 Regional Director Wilma A. Perante, LGU Balangkayan
Mayor Hon. Edith Anne T. Basco and PSA Eastern Samar Chief
Statistical Specialist Ronnie A. Bajado during the
Ceremonial Signing and Acceptance of Deed of Donation 19
March 2024. |
By
PSA-8
March 20, 2024
TACLOBAN CITY – The
Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) gratefully accepted the parcel
of agricultural land donated by the Local Government Unit (LGU) of
Balangkayan, Eastern Samar during the Ceremonial Signing of the Deed
of Donation held 19 March 2024 at Mayor’s Office.
PSA RSSO 8 Regional
Director, Wilma A. Perante attended in behalf of the National
Statistician and Civil Registrar General Usec. Claire Dennis S. Mapa
while LGU Balangkayan was represented by its Mayor Hon. Edith Anne
T. Basco.
During the event, Mayor
Basco expressed that donation of the 1,596 sq. meters lot located at
Sitio Sabang, Barangay 2, Balangkayan, Eastern Samar is a pivotal
move to make the services of PSA Eastern Samar more accessible not
only to the residents of the municipality but to the people of the
entire province. She stressed that PSA shall have the exclusive use
in relation to the performance of its governmental functions.
On the other hand,
Regional Director Perante conveyed her sincerest appreciation for
the earnest effort and generosity of LGU of Balangkayan as this
signals for more persistent lobbying for budget support from the
Regional Development Council (RDC) needed for the proposed
construction of PSA-owned office building. Also present during the
ceremonial signing, who served as witnesses, are Engr. Jemsel D.
Valdez, Municipal Engineer of Balangkayan and Mr. Ronnie A. Bajado,
Chief Statistical Specialist of PSA Eastern Samar. Mr. Bajado shared
that they will utilize the donated land for the future 2-storey
office building and once budget is platted, he hopes that
construction and relocation will be on its way soonest.
The PSA field office is
presently located at J.B. Japson Building Circumferential Road, Brgy.
Balud, Borongan City, Eastern Samar.
1 CNT killed, 3
high-powered firearms seized in a series of clashes in Northern
Samar
By
DPAO, 8ID PA
March 19, 2024
CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan
City – A Communist NPA Terrorist (CNT) was killed and three
high-powered firearms were seized during the conduct of Joint
Focused Military Operation of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)
in the hinterlands of Barangay Bagacay Palapag, Northern Samar on
the evening of March 18, 2024.
The joint operation was
conducted following the information given by concerned civilians
that a group of armed men were seen passing through the outskirts of
said barangay.
A series of encounter
ensued between the government troops and the CNTs that resulted in
the recovery of one unidentified cadaver and seizure of three
high-powered firearms, two international humanitarian law-banned
anti-personnel mine, medical paraphernalia, subversive documents and
other war materiel.
Clearing efforts are still
ongoing as of this reporting and troops on the ground have seen
heavy bloodstain along their route of withdrawal which indicates
that the CNTs suffered heavy casualties.
JTF Storm and 8th Infantry
Division Commander Major General Camilo Ligayo said that the success
of the operation was made possible through our efforts to protect
the barangays from CNT’s recovery efforts, extortion and
intimidation.
"This is our strong
response to the wishes of our people to free them from the
continuous threats of the NPA terrorists. We will not rest, we will
continue to hunt the CNTs anywhere, anytime. What they (NPAs) can do
now and the option left for them is to lay down their firearms and
go home to their families,” Maj. Gen. Ligayo said.
“We are now in the
sustainment stage since we already dismantled the two remaining
Guerilla Fronts last year and another two NPA units early this year.
In no time, we can eradicate the insurgency problem, especially with
the continued efforts in the community and through the aggressive
combat operations,” Maj. Gen. Ligayo added.
The encountered CNT unit
is notorious for numerous atrocities in Northern Samar such as
ambuscades, extortions, and killings. Likewise, multiple warrants of
arrest for murder and attempted murder were filed for their inhumane
activities.
DAR funds two road
projects in Tacloban’s farming villages
GROUNDBREAKING.
The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) and the Department
of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) start another joint
venture: construction of a farm-to-market road in Barangay
Camansihay and road rehabilitation in Barangay Sto. Niño,
both in Tacloban City. |
By
JOSE ALSMITH L.
SORIA
March 19, 2024
TACLOBAN CITY –
Residents of two farming villages in this city will soon enjoy paved
roads as the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) and Department of
Public Works and Highways (DPWH) start the construction of two
farm-to-market roads (FMRs) following the groundbreaking rites held
on Monday last week, March 11.
DPWH starts the
construction of the three-kilometer road in Barangay Camansihay
while simultaneously rehabilitating the 1.4-kilometer lane in
Barangay Sto. Niño. Both projects, with a combined project cost of
P96-million, are funded under DAR’s Agrarian Reform Fund (ARF).
DAR Assistant Regional
Director for Administration and Program Beneficiaries Development
Division, Ismael Aya-ay, who represented DAR Eastern Visayas
regional director, Robert Anthony Yu, in the groundbreaking,
disclosed that interventions for FMRs are among the priority agenda
of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Agrarian Secretary Conrado
Estrella III to encourage agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) to
increase their production and likewise help them ease the burden in
transporting their harvests to the market.
Aya-ay stressed that DAR
looks after the needs of its ARBs from infrastructure to capacity
building and enterprise development.
On the same occasion,
Tacloban City District Engineer, Rebecca Yuse, directed the
contractors of the two projects to finish them before the city
fiesta in June so farmers in these areas could bring their harvests
to the market.
Meanwhile, Barangay
Camansihay Chairman, Adan Esmeres, shared that “Natikangan ini nga
kalsada han panahon ni Presidente Marcos (Sr.). Yana la liwat ini
napadayon. Sanglit daku an amon pasalamat ha DAR nga ini nga
farm-to-market road natuloy na.” (This road was started during the
time of President Marcos (Sr.). It is only now that this road is
being continued. That is why we are very grateful to the DAR that
this farm-to-market road is now being realized.)
He also added, “Daku ini
nga grasya ha amon nga dinhi ha Camansihay ini nabutang nga
farm-to-market road.” (This is a big blessing for us that this
farm-to-market road is being implemented here in Barangay Camansihay.)
According to Esmeres
nearly 5,000 residents in his village are expected to benefit this
project.
Governor Ongchuan
visits BOI to boost investment opportunities in Northern Samar
Towards
investor-friendly environment in Northern Samar: Trade
Undersecretary and BOI Managing Head Ceferino Rodolfo (5th
from L) met with Governor Edwin Marino Ongchuan (middle) at
the BOI Main Office in Makati City on March 12, 2024. |
By
DTI-Board of
Investments
March 19, 2024
MAKATI CITY –
Making more investment opportunities happen in Northern Samar, the
province’s local government, led by Governor Edwin Marino C.
Ongchuan paid a courtesy visit to DTI Undersecretary and BOI
Managing Head Ceferino S. Rodolfo at the BOI Main Office in Makati
City on March 12, 2024.
Notably, the visit was a
follow-up of the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement entered
between BOI and the LGU earlier this year.
Governor Ongchuan told
Undersecretary Rodolfo and One Stop Action Center for Strategic
Investments (BOI-OSACSI) team that LGU Northern Samar is the first
to enact an ordinance establishing a One-Stop Shop (OSS) for Green
Lanes for Strategic Investments under EO No. 18.
Establishing OSS in the
province will result in the creation of an efficient and
investor-friendly process for obtaining business permits and
licenses (City/ Municipal/ Barangay) by having one point of
transaction through the Provincial Capitol, attracting more
investments and promoting economic growth in Northern Samar.
Moreover, officials of the
BOI and the Provincial Government of Samar expect an influx of
investments in Northern Samar, particularly in the areas of
renewable energy and digital infrastructure.
Hence, BOI-OSACSI
introduced projects under Green Lane – CI NMF (PH) (offshore wind
project), Philtower Consortium, and Aboitiz Infrastructure.
Undersecretary Rodolfo looks forward to continuing working closely
with the LGU and all its partners to ensure the realization of these
projects.
After the courtesy visit,
the BOI team facilitated an investment dialogue between the LGU and
Energies PH Inc., the proponent of the Ocean Power Project on Capul
Island, situated at the San Bernandino Strait in Northern Samar.
This tidal project is the
first in the Philippines and Southeast Asia. According to the
company's President, Mr. Antonio Ver, the company already secured a
Certificate of Commerciality from the Department of Energy (DOE).
In response, BOI Director
Ernesto C. Delos Reyes, Jr. said that the project, identified as a
strategic investment, is qualified to apply under Executive Order (EO)
18. As such, the permitting applications of projects endorsed for
green lane will be streamlined and expedited.
The green lanes for
strategic investments were established through Executive Order No.
18, which was approved by the Office of the President in February
last year. Green lanes aim to hasten, simplify, and automate the
permit and license application processes for strategic investments
in the Philippines.
Eastern Visayas
regional council reports major gains in anti-insurgency efforts
By
DPAO, 8ID PA
March 15, 2024
CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan
City – The Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) of Eastern
Visayas convened for its quarterly meeting on March 13, 2024, in
Tacloban City. Highlighted in the meeting are the notable
achievements on counter insurgency and the maintenance of peace and
order in the region.
The meeting was presided
by RPOC Chairperson and Tacloban City Mayor Alfred Romualdez,
alongside council members and officials from the 8th Infantry
Division (8ID) of the Philippine Army, Police Regional Office (PRO)
8, the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), and other
member agencies.
Lieutenant Colonel Manuel
B. Degay Jr., the Operations Officer of the Joint Task Force (JTF)
Storm, provided an update on the council’s Internal Security
Operations in Eastern Visayas.
One of the significant
updates highlighted was the joint efforts of RPOC-8 and the Regional
Task Force 8 in Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC),
resulting in the degradation of the capabilities of four
Sub-Regional Committees (SRC) and one Island Committee of the
Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC) during the first
quarter of the year the confirmation from the National Joint Peace
and Security Coordinating Center (NJPSCC) regarding the dismantling
of P2, IC Levox, and Elcon Platoon, SRC Browser.
Furthermore, significant
achievements included the neutralization of the Secretary of SRC
Sesame during an encounter in Borongan City, Eastern Samar on
January 6, 2024, the capture of nine high-powered firearms and other
Communist NPA Terrorist (CNT) items in Calbayog City, Samar on
February 4, 2024, and the neutralization of two NPAs including one
high-value individual during an encounter in Albuera, Leyte on
February 10, 2024.
Major General Camilo
Ligayo, Commander of 8ID, emphasized that these accomplishments were
the result of the collaboration efforts of RPOC-8 member agencies,
which significantly contributed to the ongoing fight against EVRPC.
"This year, we aim to
completely eradicate and achieve total victory against the EVRPC.
This goal will be realized through significant advancements in our
anti-insurgency efforts, highlighting the undeniable strength
derived from our collective endeavors. United as a cohesive force,
we pave the way for lasting peace and progress across Eastern
Visayas," Maj. Gen. Ligayo emphasized.
NMP successfully
conducts essential safety training in Guiuan, Eastern Samar
By
National Maritime
Polytechnic
March 14, 2024
TACLOBAN CITY – The
National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) has successfully concluded the
two-day Basic Safety Training for Motorboat Handlers/Operators and
Fishermen (BSTMHOF), incorporating Typhoon Preparedness, in Guiuan,
Eastern Samar on 11-12 March 2024. The program witnessed the
participation of ninety-seven (97) local motorboat
handlers/operators and fishermen, who are now better equipped with
safety skills essential for their daily livelihood and activities.
The training covered key
areas including Personal Survival Techniques, Fire Prevention and
Firefighting, Elementary First Aid, Personal Safety and Social
Responsibility, Rules of the Road, Typhoon Awareness, and Marine
Safety Requirements. This comprehensive curriculum aims not only to
enhance the safety and efficiency of maritime operations but also to
ensure the preservation of life at sea, especially during adverse
weather conditions.
Participants expressed
their deep gratitude for the opportunity to acquire such knowledge
and skills, acknowledging the significance of the training in
bolstering their ability to safely navigate and operate in open
seas. The skills learned are deemed indispensable, not only
contributing to the reduction of maritime incidents and loss of
lives but also to the overall resilience of the community against
natural calamities.
Aside from the said
training, NMP also conducted the Prevention of Alcohol and Drug
Abuse in the Maritime Sector (PADAMS), STD/HIV/AIDS Prevention in
the Maritime Sector (SHAPIMS), and Gender Sensitivity Training for
Seafarers (GSTS). These additional programs aimed to address
psychosocial issues, promote health and inclusivity within the
maritime industry by addressing the broader spectrum of challenges
beyond mere physical safety.
This was the first batch
of graduates produced by NMP on BSTMHOF this year. Coordination with
the Maritime Industry Authority Regional Office 8 (MARINA RO8) and
with other local government units (LGUs) in the region is currently
being made for possible collaboration, thereby expanding the reach
of beneficiaries for this program.
The successful
implementation of this activity serves as a powerful testament to
the impact of collaborative efforts, demonstrating a united
commitment to safeguarding the lives of those who brave the seas for
their livelihood, and contributing to the welfare and betterment of
the local communities.
Filipina clergy tells
UN of anti-terror law harassment
At
the UNHRC's interactive dialogues on the report of the
Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human
rights and fundamental freedoms while countering terrorism
last Tuesday, March 12, Rev. Glofie Baluntong, former
Mindoro UMC District Superintendent, told the body of the
harassment she suffers under the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020
(ATA, Republic Act No. 11479). |
By
KARAPATAN
March 13, 2024
GENEVA, Switzerland – A
pastor of the United Methodist Church (UMC) in the Philippines
delivered an oral statement at the ongoing 55th session of the
United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in this city narrating
harassment against her by the Philippine government.
Rev. Baluntong said it all
started on June 17, 2019 when the Philippine National Police forces
barged into her church compound in Roxas, Oriental Mindoro without a
court-issued warrant, demanding that she present the members of
Karapatan Southern Tagalog whom she was hosting. She was then
accused of aiding alleged rebels, she added.
“Since then, I have
endured harassment, intrusive visits, and questioning by the Armed
Forces (of the Philippines),” she revealed.
Rev. Baluntong, also a
member of the National Council of Churches of the Philippines, also
told the international body that she was subsequently faced
attempted murder charges on August 18, 2021.
“[They cited] an armed
encounter that allegedly occurred on March 25 of that year – a day
on which I was conducting funeral rites for a departed church
member,” Baluntong told the UN.
“I was also wrongfully
charged with [violation of] the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020, and
grave threats from state forces have forced me to flee my town,” she
added.
Baluntong said that on
behalf of the World Council of Churches, they call upon UN member
states, including the Philippines, to heed the recommendations of UN
Special Rapporteur on counter-terrorism and human rights Ben Saul to
ensure that counter-terrorism laws and practices, including efforts
to combat terrorism financing, respect human rights.
Baluntong said that
governments must make sure they do not curtail the legitimate
activities of civil society organizations, impede civic space, or
hinder humanitarian endeavours.
The clergy spoke at the
debates on the submission of Saul’s report on the misuse of
counter-terrorism measures and how these can infringe upon the
rights of suspected individuals and imperil the liberties of the
innocent.
“Saul’s report testifies
to my own lived experience,” Baluntong said.
Increasing number of cases
Human rights group
Karapatan, a member of the Philippine UPR (Universal Periodic
Review) delegation attending the ongoing UNHRC session here said at
least 91 individuals have been charged by the Philippine government
of violating the ATA and Republic Act No. 10168 or the law on the
prevention and suppression of terrorist financing. There are at
least 27 political prisoners charged under both laws, Karapatan
said.
“Charges under ATA against
three political prisoners had been dismissed, but they remain in
jail due to other trumped up criminal charges. Eight political
prisoners who were detained and faced charges under Republic Act No.
11479 had been released,” Karapatan legal counsel Atty. Ma. Sol
Taule said.
The constitutionality of
the Philippine Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 had been contested through
several petitions before the Supreme Court.
Expanding Horizons:
CARD MBA opens 90th PO in North Cotabato
Some
of CARD MRI key officers and staff were present during the
grand opening of CARD MBA's newest provincial office in
North Cotabato on March 5, 2024. |
By
JOSEPHINE M. RAMOS
March 11, 2024
SAN PABLO CITY –
The CARD Mutual Benefit Association (CARD MBA), the insurance arm of
CARD Mutually Reinforcing Institutions (CARD MRI), opened its 90th
provincial office (PO) in North Cotabato on March 5, 2024.
This strategic initiative
aims to provide affordable insurance benefits to its members,
aligning with CARD MBA's mission of safeguarding millions of lives.
"This additional
provincial office is our approach in bridging the gap between our
institution and the members that we serve," said CARD MBA CEO
Jocelyn Dequito, highlighting the importance of opening more
provincial offices across the country.
Furthermore, she added,
“Through this, we can further fasten the claim processing of the
members' benefits, since that is the reason why CARD MBA exists – to
ensure timely support when our members need it most.”
Established in September
1999, CARD MBA operates as a mutual benefit association, extending
financial assistance to members and their families in the form of
death benefits, accident benefits, medical subsidies, pensions, and
other loan redemption packages.
CARD MBA offers several
microinsurance products, including the Basic Life Insurance Program,
Retirement Fund, Loan Redemption Fund Plus, Golden Life Insurance
Program, Family Security Plan, Acci Plan, and Remitter Protek Plan.
In addition, the
institution is also engaged in community development programs such
as the Build-Operate-and-Transfer-Program (BOAT), mass weddings,
CARD MRI Disaster Relief Assistance Program, and other community
development activities.
The newly opened PO,
located at Purok Rosas, Poblacion 8, Midsayap, North Cotabato, will
cater to a total of 54,455 members from CARD, Inc. (A Microfinance
NGO) and CARD Bank, Inc.
As of January 2024, CARD
MBA has insured 24,184,745 individuals and has total accumulated
claims of P18,999,753,366.84.
DTI spearheads the
premiere GameDev Summit (GDS) 2024 in PH
By
DTI-Export Marketing
Bureau
March 8, 2024
MAKATI CITY - The
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), through the Competitiveness
and Innovation Group (CIG) and the Export Marketing Bureau (EMB), in
partnership with GameOps, Inc. and the Game Developers Association
of the Philippines (GDAP), has successfully concluded the Game
Development Summit (GDS) in Boracay on 15-16 February 2024. This is
the first International Game Industry Summit in the Philippines
featuring two (2) tracks: External Development and Indie Games.
After the 2-day summit,
the initial estimated export sales generated amounted to
US$2,419,000.00 (actual and potential sales), and 53 B2B meetings
were conducted resulting in 47 trade leads.
During the launch, DTI-CIG
Undersecretary Rafaelita M. Aldaba highlighted the DTI's partnership
with private organizations such as the Game Development Association
of the Philippines (GDAP) and the International Trade Centre (ITC)
ARISE Plus Philippines project to champion the development and
promotion of the game development sector.
"As we strengthen our game
development ecosystem, particularly through the indie games track
where we promote our Filipino stories and games, the Game
Development Summit takes on even greater significance. Who knows,
the next big, game-changing idea might emerge from a Filipino
developer, born right here at the GDS." Usec. Aldaba said.
Furthermore, International
Trade Centre (ITC) National Project Coordinator Atty. Rami Hourani
discussed the ARISE Plus Philippines Project of the ITC, implemented
by the DTI-EMB and funded by the European Union (EU). He also
invited two (2) ARISE Plus Philippines beneficiaries to share their
first-hand experiences participating in several trade missions under
the project.
The Philippines' first
Game Development Summit (GDS) welcomed people worldwide, providing a
collaborative platform for studios, developers, and advocates to
forge connections, cultivate meaningful partnerships, and
collectively promote the gaming industry. Featuring two distinct
tracks, the External Development Track at The Lind Boracay
facilitated studio partnerships with world-class game developers. At
the same time, the Indie Track at Sea Wind Resort Boracay
highlighted the growing independent game development scene. At the
sidelines of GDS 2024, an Industry Consultants Meeting attended by
the representatives of the DTI – Export Marketing Bureau, Foreign
Trade Service Corps Coordinating Office (FTSCCO), Philippine Trade
and Investment Center (PTIC) – San Francisco, Board of Investments (BOI)
and the Canadian Embassy commenced. Mr. Jason Della Rocca of
Execution Labs and Mr. Krisitian Roberts from Nordicity, Canada,
participated in the consultative meeting.
This summit, held
simultaneously at both venues, was jam-packed with activities,
including a business-to-business event with international
participation, workshops, and learning sessions featuring esteemed
speakers who are top players in the industry. Chris Wren, the
executive director for XDS and co-founder of XDS Spark, led the
opening of the XDS Main Stage in The Lind Boracay on 15 February
2024. Several learning sessions were conducted in the External
Development Track during the 2-day summit, summarized as follows:
"Unveiling Advantages and Differences of External Game Development
in Asia," "Effective Communication in Game Development," "Unlocking
the Power of External Partnership Collaboration" and "Panel:
Insights from AAA Developers."
For the Indie Games Track,
the following learning sessions were conducted: "Optimized
Base-Building: How Indie Studios Can Leverage Support and
Incentives," "Funding Models: Understanding How To Invest In Games,"
"Investing In Indie Games," "Setting SEA Developers Up For Success
With International Publishers," "XBOX, Indies, and Southeast Asia,"
"Leveraging External Development Creatively," "Guiding Lights: The
Crucial Role of GameDev Mentors for Indie Developers," "Philippine
VCs and The Games Industry" and lastly, "Staying Alive and
Redefining Indie: A Boozmap Case Study."
While learning sessions
are happening in the Indie Games Track, workshops were also
simultaneously being conducted at the venue: "Your Design Is Bad,
And You Should Feel Bad", "GameDev Workshop Master User Stories To
Create Expressive Gameplay," "Indie Gold: Crafting Viable Game
Concepts and Budgets for Success," "Pitch Review Session," "Building
Launch Momentum," "Building the Community For Your Indie Games
Studio," "Act Like You're Self-Publishing (Chances Are That You Will
Be)" and "Introduction to Influencer Marketing Strategies For
Indies."
The event was
well-attended, including 16 major companies local and international)
at the External Development track, participating in networking and
B2B. There were 300 participants from various sectors, such as
Publishers, Investors, Developers, Advocates, Experts, Mentors,
Service Providers, Industry Associations/Organizations, and other
gaming development professionals. The summit's global appeal was
evident, with representatives from 30 countries converging to
participate in the maiden event.
The DTI-EMB has been an
active partner in championing the creative industry, recognizing the
potential of exports in the game development sector, particularly
with the recent passage of Republic Act 11904, also known as the
Philippine Creative Industries Development Act (PCIDA), which
provides strategic direction and strengthen the export promotion and
development of the industry. Furthermore, the mission aligns with
the Philippine Export Development Plan (PEDP) 2023-2028, which lists
IT-BPM as one of its priority industries.