CARD MRI holds Media Lakbay Aral in Laguna

By EDRIAN BANANIA
November 12, 2024

SAN PABLO CITY – The CARD Mutually Reinforcing Institutions (CARD MRI) gathered media practitioners from various organizations for a three-day Lakbay-Aral in San Pablo City, Laguna, from October 23 to 25, 2024. The event aimed to raise awareness of microfinance's significant impact on poverty eradication in the Philippines.

As part of CARD MRI Publishing House's sustainability efforts, participants joined in a coin bank painting session, creating colorful designs to inspire young savers. These unique, hand-painted coin banks will be given to the children of CARD MRI clients, encouraging them to develop good saving habits early on.

Additionally, participants experienced a product demonstration of Ube Halaya, a dessert made from purple yam, butter, and condensed milk, as well as Pancit Kalabuko, a well-known farm-to-table dish prepared by Chef Joel Frago of Ilaya at Sta. Elena in San Pablo City, Laguna.

During the event, participants were introduced to CARD MRI’s various programs in microfinance and heritage tourism. The group visited several client-facing institutions of CARD MRI, including the CARD Clinics, CARD Indogrosir Shopping Mart, Mga Likha Ni Inay Coffee Shop, and the CARD-MRI Development Institute (CMDI) Main Campus.

One of the highlights was the Lagos and Bayong Tour facilitated by CARD MRI Hijos Tours, a community-based tour company of CARD MRI. The tours showcased the rich history of San Pablo City through storytelling, site visits, and interactions with local enterprises, further emphasizing CARD MRI's commitment to empowering communities.

“One of CARD MRI’s key missions is to collaborate with like-minded individuals and organizations in promoting our advocacy for poverty eradication. We recognize the essential role of the media in amplifying CARD MRI’s message of hope and empowerment through our financial and community development programs,” said Ms. Marilyn Manila, President of CARD MRI Publishing House.

The event concluded with the soft launch of the Gintong Tambuli Awards, which will be held in 2025. This award aims to recognize the unwavering commitment and dedication of media partners in supporting CARD MRI’s mission and advocacy focused on poverty eradication.

"Through this award, we honor the media’s vital role in helping us spread awareness about our mission. Their dedication to telling stories of transformation is crucial for inspiring action and change," Ms. Manila added.

The Lakbay-Aral was attended by 15 media practitioners, including Ms. Ivy Tejano of Mindanao Journal from Davao City; Ms. Mariela Angella Oladives of Daily Guardian from Iloilo; Mr. Emmanuel Lumanao of People’s Guardian from Butuan City; Mr. Dexter Perez of Mindanet News from Davao de Oro; Mr. Jun Aguirre of Boracay Island News from Aklan; and Ms. Irene Gonzales of Pilipino Mirror from Tuguegarao City. Also present were some active media partners of CARD MRI in South Luzon, including Ms. Khayla Anne J. Carabio and Ms. Ma. Donna Aranguren of Laguna Courier; Mr. Dante Abrera of Isyu Balita; Mr. Adan Petilla of Tribune Post; Mr. Webster Ace Paginag of Press n’ Picks News; Ms. Madeliene Marasigan of Rapids Journal; Mr. Christian Coliat of Ang Dyaryo Natin Ngayon; Mr. Andres Macatangay of The Wednesday Herald; and Mr. Alejandro Villagorda, Jr. of Southern Tagalog Herald News.

CARD Clinics and Allied Services, Mga Likha Ni Inay, CMDI, CARD Indogrosir, CARD MRI Publishing House, and Hijos Tours are members of CARD MRI that share a common goal—eliminating poverty. Established in 1986, CARD MRI continues to work toward this vision, making strides in transforming the lives of Filipinos across the nation.

Philippine Army, Australian Army strengthen interoperability for regional stability

By OACPA
November 11, 2024

FORT BONIFACIO, Taguig City – Philippine Army and Australian Army troops strengthened interoperability as they wrap up Exercise Kasangga in a closing ceremony at Camp Elias Angeles, Pili, Camarines Sur on November 8, 2024.

Acting Army Chief Maj. Gen. Leodevic B. Guinid, the Guest of Honor and Speaker, commended the nearly 300 Philippine Army and Australian Army training participants for their active involvement and dedication in sharing their skills and knowledge. Meanwhile, Brigadier Douglas Pashley, Commander of the 1st Combat Brigade of the Australian Army, highlighted the strengthened cooperation and mutual learning between the two forces during the bilateral training exercise.

Filipino ground troops and their Aussie counterparts trained in various warfighting operations and exchanged Civil-Military Operations (CMO) techniques during the month-long exercise.

The combined exercise covered critical areas such as urban operations, close combat techniques, combat shooting, tactical casualty care, explosive assault breaching, cybersecurity operations and mortar gunnery with forward observers.

New 8ID Commander takes post, vows to achieve total victory against insurgents in Eastern Visayas

By DPAO, 8ID PA
November 8, 2024

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – The 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division, Philippine Army, welcomed Major General Adonis Ariel G. Orio as its new Commander following the turnover of command from Brigadier General Perfecto P. Peñaredondo in a change-of-command ceremony held yesterday, November 7, 2024, at 8ID Headquarters in Catbalogan City, Samar.

Major General Leodevic B. Guinid, Acting Commanding General of the Philippine Army, presided over the ceremony and expressed his confidence in Major General Orio’s leadership as he officially assumed the role of the 27th Commander of the 8ID.

“Your experience in the 4th Infantry Division will be invaluable here in the 8ID. Your success in reducing the influence of the CPP-NPA-NDF in your previous area demonstrates your knowledge and dedication to eradicating the Communist Terrorist Group,” stated Major General Guinid.

In his assumption speech, Major General Orio emphasized his commitment to achieving a decisive victory against insurgency by adhering to the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ general guidelines for eradicating insurgent forces in Eastern Visayas.

Maj. Gen. Orio also highlighted the essential role of civil society in addressing the insurgency problem and encouraged collaboration among local government leaders, government agencies, peace partners, and the community.

“I strongly believe that we cannot solve our longstanding insurgency problem through military solutions alone. A proactive and effective whole-of-nation approach is essential to achieving our goal,” Maj. Gen. Orio stated.

Additionally, Maj. Gen. Orio reminded the troops to perform their duties with the utmost commitment, noting that the public relies on the military to bring peace and development to the community.

A member of the Philippine Military Academy “TANGLAW-DIWA” Class of 1992, Major General Orio previously served as Brigade Commander of the 402nd Infantry (Stingers) Brigade, 4ID, Philippine Army, before his appointment as 8ID Commander.

Watch video: 8ID Change of Command Ceremony 2024

DE Gulmatico conducts inspection visit of key infrastructure projects in barangay Lagundi, Catbalogan City

By MARK ERROLD G. PABUA
November 6, 2024

CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar – District Engineer Herminio V. Gulmatico of Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Samar 2nd District Engineering Office (DEO) recently conducted a rapid inspection of two significant ongoing projects located at the new site in Barangay Lagundi, overlooking the picturesque Maqueda Bay.

One of the main projects under review was the construction of the new DPWH building for the Samar 2nd DEO, which is projected for completion by April 2025. This new facility is set to enhance operational efficiency, supporting improved public service delivery for the residents of Samar. Additionally, Engineer Gulmatico inspected the Museo Han Samar, a project that aims to preserve and showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region, soon to become a prominent cultural destination.

These projects are managed by JFR Construction, Inc., one of the region’s leading contractors, known for its commitment to quality and timely delivery of public works.

With these developments, the DEO continues to strengthen infrastructure and cultural initiatives, contributing to the growth and vibrancy of Samar. Both projects are anticipated to benefit the local community and provide long-term value for generations to come.

8ID held send-off ceremony of SRC CL 223-24

By DPAO, 8ID PA
November 4, 2024

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – The 8th Infantry “Stormtroopers” Division conducted Send-off Ceremony for the newly-minted Scout Rangers held at the Old Terminal, Calbayog Airport, Calbayog City on 04 November 2024.

A total of 190 troops were deployed in the operational areas of Samar Island for Combat Test Mission (CTM) to support the JTF Storm’s Security, Stability and Sustainment Operations in the fight to eliminate the remnants of the communist terrorists group in the region.

In his message, BGen. Perfecto P Peñaredondo acknowledged the troopers for their sacrifices and embracing the mission without hesitation and with utmost dedication.

“We stand in awe of your achievements, not only in terms of tactical success but also for the impact on the morale and determination of all those who fight alongside you. The sacrifices you made have brought security, but they also strengthened our unity, knowing we share a purpose greater than ourselves. Your courage has sent a clear message: we will not back down, and we will fight until peace is achieved,” added BGen. Peñaredondo.

During the ceremony, TG Panther and the members of the Scout Ranger Class were given awards for their significant contributions to the accomplishment JTF Storm’s mission.

NMP strengthens maritime workforce opportunities at Tacloban’s MEGA Job Fair

Press Release
October 31, 2024

TACLOBAN CITY – The National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) joined hands with the City Government of Tacloban, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), and USAID-Urban Connect at the Mayor’s Employment Generation Activity (MEGA) Job Fair held on October 25, 2024, at the Tacloban City Convention Center/Astrodome in Sagkahan. Organized through the city’s Public Employment Service Office (PESO), the event brought together job seekers and industry leaders to foster employment opportunities in the region.

As part of its commitment to advancing the maritime workforce, NMP awarded free Basic Training (BT) slots to 50 individuals, allowing them to enroll in the training program at any time in 2025. This initiative provides foundational training for aspiring seafarers, supporting the growth of skilled professionals within the maritime sector.

NMP’s booth served as an information center on its wide range of training programs and services, where attendees received guidance on maritime career pathways and details about various courses. To strengthen client engagement and enhance its regional presence, NMP distributed limited-edition giveaways, and information materials, underscoring its commitment to supporting local employment and skills development.

Meanwhile, those interested in NMP training programs can register through the Online Registration System at https://register.nmp.gov.ph, or visit the Agency’s Facebook page (www.facebook.com/nmptrainingcenter) or official website (https://nmp.gov.ph) for updates and program details. For information on NMP’s research initiatives, the e-Research Portal (www.research.nmp.gov.ph) provides access to completed studies, research agendas, and opportunities for industry collaboration.

NMP also encourages Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA)-registered seafarers to take advantage of the NMP-OWWA Seafarers’ Upgrading Program (SUP) and the Skills for Employment Scholarship Program (SESP), which offer financial assistance for training costs.

8ID acting commander highlights army accomplishments in Eastern Visayas, shares thrusts at press meet-and-greet

By DPAO, 8ID PA
October 31, 2024

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – The 8ID Stormtroopers Press Corps, together with Brigadier General Perfecto P. Peñaredondo, Acting Commander of the 8th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, and other senior officers, held a media meet-and-greet at Abanador Hall on October 29, 2024,.

The event aimed to foster cooperation, enhance the Army's public information, and ensure effective communication in Eastern Visayas.

In her remarks, Ms. Miriam Desacada, the Press Corps President, expressed gratitude to the 8ID leadership, led by Brig. Gen. Peñaredondo, for their continued support. She pledged to work collaboratively to promote peace and security in the region

Brigadier General Peñaredondo thanked the 8ID Press Corps for their role in communicating the division’s achievements to the public and for their relentless commitment to fostering a stable peace.

“We recognize the importance of transparency and communication. It is crucial that our operations and intentions are conveyed clearly and promptly, ensuring that truth stands at the forefront of all narratives,” he said.

The ongoing engagement with the media community aims to strengthen and empower the 8th Division Public Affairs Office to the general public. It also institutionalizes the valuable partnerships cultivated over the years, and fostering cooperation in future initiatives.

Inaugural Go-Live of 1st PSA-managed Civil Registry System (CRS) outlet in Naval, Biliran

By PSA-8
October 29, 2024

TACLOBAN CITY – The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) officially announces the Opening of the very first PSA Managed Census Serbilis Outlet in PSA Biliran. The ceremony was held at PSA Biliran today led by National Statistician and Civil Registrar General Undersecretary Claire Dennis S. Mapa together with Hon. Gerard Roger M. Espina, Civil Registration and Central Support Office (CRCSO) Assistant National Statistician Marizza B. Grande, PSA RSSO 8 Regional Director Wilma A. Perante, Chief Statistical Specialists Renavil V. Cueva, Sheryl Ann A. Jamisola along with other delegates from various PSA regional offices in the country.

The Ribbon Cutting was carried out by USec. Mapa and Biliran Governor Hon. Gerard Roger M. Espina followed by the Launching Program at the Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) Gym. In his inspirational message, Usec Mapa shared the realization of the commitment of PSA to bring civil registration services closer to the public, especially to those areas and municipalities that are disadvantaged by their distance from the existing CRS outlets. He shared that in his visit in 2023, he solicited the support of PSA Management to possibly have CRS Outlet in Biliran to make it accessible to the people of Biliran considering the distance from the Outlet in Tacloban City.

Usec Mapa also announced that eight more PSA-Managed CRS Outlets in the country will be established with the main objective of bringing the outlets closer to the public. Now all provinces in Region VIII have CRS Outlets.

Further, ANS Grande discussed the services of PSA-Managed CRS Outlet under the Concessionaire, Unisys Managed Services Corporation (UMSC) wherein PSA will allow the office space and site preparation of the outlet including the utilities, human resources/personnel, equipment, communication requirements, and commonly used supplies for the operation while UMSC provides the services with what is required for a CRS outlet and in compliance with industry standards and best practices on the infrastructure side of the project.

The CRS Outlet operates under the Civil Registry System Information Technology Project Phase II (CRS-ITP2) involving the computerization of the civil registry operations of the PSA and is designed to collect, access, store, maintain, and manage civil registry documents and specimen signatures of all city and municipal registrars using imaging technology.

Biliran folks and nearby municipalities of Leyte can now avail themselves of civil registry documents right at the heart of its capital situated at PSA Provincial Office, DEMC Complex Commercial Building, P Inocentes Street Naval, Biliran.

PSA continues its Rehistro Bulilit registration initiatives in Eastern Visayas

By PSA-8
October 28, 2024

TACLOBAN CITY – The Philippine Statistics Authority Regional Statistical Services Office VIII (PSA RSSO) and Provincial Statistical Offices continue its commitment in registering children ages from 1 to 4 years old thru the Rehistro Bulitlit initiatives. Since July 2024, registration teams cover various barangays and municipalities to register children with parlor games and perks on the side to make sure they will not be bored while waiting for their turns.

Parents and guardians are being oriented on the importance of the National ID, documentary requirements and the process of registration. Collaborative efforts to intensify the implementation of the Rehistro Bulilit is also being done with the local government units and national government agencies with the objective of ensuring the 100% registration of children to the National ID system.

To date, there are about 100,000 children already registered in the region since February 2024. PSA RSSO 8 appeals to all parents and guardians to accompany their children in any of the PSA National ID Registration Centers or Rehistro Bulilit schedules in their respective barangay or municipality.

MedPro International’s Global Giving inspires and supports future nurses in the Philippines

Via GLOBE NEWSWIRE
October 27, 2024

SUNRISE, Florida, USA – The MedPro International and MedProU teams returned from a transformative trip to the Philippines, engaging with future nurses and local healthcare leaders about the profound impact of MedPro International’s Global Giving initiative on healthcare and nursing education.

“Recognizing that healthcare sustainability is a pressing global concern, through Global Giving, MedPro International is committed to fostering enduring relationships to address the unique healthcare needs of local communities around the world and nurture the next generation of healthcare professionals,” said MedPro International Executive Vice President of International Operations Patty Jeffrey, RN.

At the prestigious 57th Annual ANSAP Convention, sponsored by MedPro International, Senior Manager of International Testing Joely Carrillo addressed an audience of 1,100 healthcare leaders on efforts to educate nurses and develop healthcare in local communities while also speaking on the importance of prioritizing physical, mental, and emotional well-being. During the two-week visit, Carrillo also hosted five nursing seminars focused on Global Giving’s educational initiatives, engaging primarily with fourth-year nursing students. “It was an incredible experience,” Carrillo stated. Her lectures provided practical strategies for managing test anxiety, emphasizing that the right tools can significantly enhance performance. In addition to in-person instruction, students benefited from recorded lectures from MedProU’s web-based series.

Carrillo also gained valuable insights into the challenges faced by nursing students, particularly regarding limited internet access, which affects their educational resources. “Internet access is crucial,” she explained. “This visit has highlighted the need for alternative approaches to education that can adapt to these challenges.” Carrillo also toured Perpetual Help Medical Center in Las Piñas, a partner in MedPro’s Global Giving events.

Global Giving

These recent initiatives follow MedPro International’s sponsorship of medical services for over 300 patients at a one-day event in Loma, Biñan City, Philippines, last summer. This event provided vital screenings, cardiac EKG tests, x-rays, and doctor consultations.

Additionally, MedPro participated in “Brigada Eskwela 2023” in Las Piñas City, visiting two elementary schools to donate supplies and help clean classrooms, repaint walls, and refurbish furniture. The MedPro International team plans to return to the Philippines to provide additional instruction to students in early 2025.

About MedPro International

Since 2006, MedPro International has prepared and deployed more foreign-educated healthcare professionals in the United States than any other U.S. staffing company. As a member of the American Association of International Healthcare Recruitment (AAIHR), MedPro International subscribes to the AAIHR code of ethics, which ensures the ethical treatment of foreign-educated healthcare professionals through full support sponsorship. MedPro handles all costs and aspects of immigration, licensing, credentialing, testing, clinical and U.S. assimilation training, and education to ensure healthcare workers successfully transition into the U.S. healthcare system.

8ID bolsters humanitarian assistance and disaster response in Bicol

By DPAO, 8ID PA
October 26, 2024

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – The 8th Emergency Response Company of the 8th Infantry “Stormtroopers” Division, Philippine Army arrived at Matnog Port, Sorsogon, on October 25, 2024, alongside 200 personnel from the 8th Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (8RDRRMC).

The team is prepared to intensify rescue and relief efforts across the Bicol Region following the onslaught of Typhoon Kristine.

In solidarity with the affected communities, the 8ID has deployed soldiers to the Bicol Region to provide immediate humanitarian assistance and ensure safe, efficient operations. They are collaborating closely with local government units and national agencies, dedicated to alleviating the hardships faced by those affected.

"The Army stands with the Nation in times of need, providing critical support to help those in distress," stated Brigadier General Perfecto P. Peñaredondo, Commander of the 8th Infantry Division.

He emphasized, "Our commitment to serve the people and secure the land even beyond our given area of operations remain steadfast."

The Philippine Army will continue to mobilize resources and troops to strengthen disaster response efforts and support the recovery of affected communities.

DPWH Samar 2nd DEO turnover and blessing ceremony of multi-purpose building in Villareal, Samar

By MARK ERROLD G. PABUA
October 21, 2024

CATBALOGAN CITY – The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Samar 2nd District Engineering Office (DEO), under the leadership of District Engineer Herminio V. Gulmatico, proudly announces the turnover and blessing ceremony of the newly constructed Multi-Purpose Building (Evacuation Center) in Villareal, Samar. This important facility is set to provide refuge for local residents in times of calamities and emergencies.

The state-of-the-art building, which covers an area of 1,445 square meters, is a key infrastructure designed to serve as a safe and secure evacuation center during natural disasters. The project, completed with a total contract cost of P39,199,792.81, reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and welfare of the people of Villareal.

The turnover ceremony was graced by local officials, community leaders, and representatives from the DPWH. During the event, District Engineer Herminio V. Gulmatico emphasized the significance of the project, stating, “This facility is a testament to our continuous efforts to provide our communities with resilient infrastructure that will protect lives during times of crisis.”

The multi-purpose building is expected to serve not only as an evacuation center but also as a venue for various community activities, further contributing to the overall development of Villareal.