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

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

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

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

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

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

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.